Information for Parents
Clothing TipsÂ
Some basics - layer, layer, layer. Start out with long underwear. Depending on the conditions, add sweaters, coats or shells. ALWAYS WEAR A HAT! Fleece pants and coats topped with a wind shell will work for an amazing range of conditions.
Stay away from cotton. Some of the new fabrics (MTS, Capilene, etc) are just as soft as cotton, and do a superior job of wicking moisture away from the skin.
Remember too, that downhill ski gloves are generally too heavy for cross-country. Mittens are great in especially cold weather, and can be worn with light weight liners to really add protection (and don't forget those wonderful little boot warmers).
Consider Marking Your Child's Skis
Just a suggestion...
If your child is skiing classical and is doing trade-ins at Spring Street Sports there will be a number of other kids there with skis that look exactly like yours.
If your child is skating and owns Fischers they will be in a group where most of the kids are skating on Fischers.
Poles are even worse. If we have lots of kids there is certain to be a considerable amount of duplication because there are not that many brands of poles.
When the kids are done skiing, many of them dump their stuff haphazardly. Marking their equipment can be a terrific aid in gathering things up at the end of a session, especially if you have more than one skier enrolled. It can also help prevent other kids and their parents from accidentally picking up your child's stuff.
Marking your child's equipment can be as simple as putting a piece of tape with their name or initials on it. Using colored tape and/or putting it in a certain spot can make it easier to pick things out from a distance.
Please Wax Your Child's Skis
If you are a new Monday night skier, please wax your child's skis! It isn't expensive or time consuming and their skis will thank you.
While we don't endorse any specific product, both Swix and Toko will be happy to tell you how to make the best use of their waxes. Both have products that feature ease-of-use and don't require ironing. Here are some links to instructional videos.
Courtesy and Safety Rules
Be courteous to all other skiers.
Ski in the direction that the trail is designed.
When another skier asks to pass, step to the side and let them get by.
Don\'t litter.
If you need to walk on the trail, walk on the side, not the middle.
Be responsible for your equipment and clothing.
Respect your own and others equipment.
If you are skating, skate away from tracks so that you do not destroy them for others.
Dress appropriately for conditions. Several light layers are best.
Always wear a hat and mittens or gloves.
Keep your socks and feet dry.
Go inside and warm up if you get cold.
Watch for signs of frostbite.
Ski as a group, stay together.
Make sure your equipment is in good shape and sized properly.
Ski in control.
Sizing Ski Equipment for Kids
Skis
Skis are measured in centimeters (cm). Your ski length will depend on your ability, height and weight. The following chart will give you a general range that will work for most beginners and intermediate classic youth skiers. However, we recommend that you consult a reputable dealer when buying skis for kids of any age. For beginners shorter is better.
*(Skate skis and poles should be sized by an experienced skier or a reputable dealer.)
Classic Ski Sizing Chart
Poles
Elite skier Bryan Cook explains how to determine the correct pole length.