Pre-Season Ski Prep
The skiers who have the best opening day did their homework in October. Here's a simple countdown plan for your gear, your boots and your legs.
Take stock of your gear
- Pull everything out of storage and check for damage, rust and missing pieces.
- Decide what needs replacing — boots that hurt, a helmet that's 5+ years old, skis with core shots.
- Shop early: fall has the best selection, and prior-year models are often discounted.
Boots and fitness
- Wear your boots around the house. If they pinch or feel sloppy, see a boot fitter now — not in December.
- Start leg workouts 2–3x a week: squats, lunges, wall sits, side planks and some cardio.
- Check your ski length and binding setup against our size and DIN tools.
Tune and pack
- Hot wax your skis or snowboard and touch up edges (or drop them at a shop before the rush).
- Have a shop verify your DIN setting if your weight, ability or boots changed.
- Buy or reload your pass and set out your layers, goggles and gloves.