Imagine this. You are in your favorite resort, extremely giddy to ski. You are dressed from head to toe, complete with a ski hat, ski jacket, ski pants, and ski gloves, all set to have fun. Suddenly, heaven starts crying! There’s rain! There is one question that you have in mind – can you ski in the rain?
The answer is a resounding YES! You can still ski even when it’s raining. However, this is different from skiing during regular weather. You will need a different gear and you need to have more technical knowledge about how to ski.
Want to know more about skiing in the rain? We got you covered in the rest of this guide. Read on, so that next time you go on a skiing trip, rain can’t stop you!
Why You Should Ski in the Rain
Before we talk about the basics of skiing in the rain, let’s first look at the reasons why you should do it. It seems dangerous and uncomfortable. If you know the right way to do it, however, it is completely safe.
Among others, the best reason to try skiing when it’s raining is that it is more convenient. You can enjoy the snow sans the crowd. You don’t have to wait for a long time in line at the lift.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to test the moisture-wicking properties of your ski clothing.
When it rains and when the temperature is warm, the snow becomes softer. This makes it more challenging to turn. To do things perfectly, make sure that you learn how to turn on skis before you go.
This is also fun and challenging. You can challenge yourself to try something new and show off your skills!
Master the Same Techniques
Skiing in the rain requires the same techniques as skiing when there is no rain. From stopping on skis to getting up on skis, you will need the same set of skills. The main difference, however, is that you need to be more cautious to prevent injuries.
The skiing techniques when raining is almost the same when you are in a dry environment. You just have to be more careful. Rain can make the snow softer and challenging.
One of the most important techniques you need to learn is edge control. Increased accuracy in your edge control is one of the most important. A harder edge and minimal friction will make things more difficult, so you need to demonstrate better precision to improve weight transfer. This will make it easier to control your moves.
During your ski training session, you also need to learn how to do it with a wider stance. This allows you to be more balanced as you slide a slippery slope.
Another thing that you have to master is how to pole pants while skiing. Your ski poles will come in handy to maintain your balance. You might need to plant the poles deeper if the surface is soft because of the rain.
Wearing the right ski goggles is also important. See to it that it won’t affect your vision. Also, know how to prevent your goggles from fogging.
Patience is a virtue if you want to go skiing as you rain. When turning on skis, the turn radius where you will slide is larger. Your horizontal movement is also quicker. You need to pay more attention to balancing yourself and prevent making sudden turns. Even if you know how to hop turn, this is a technique that you might not want to do when it is raining as it increases the risk of an injury.
Invest in the Right Gear and Clothes
Anyone interested to learn the basics of skiing in the rain should invest in the essential ski gear. If it is extremely wet, you need clothing with three layers of waterproof fabric for an assurance that you will stay dry. While the clothes should keep you dry, it should also be lightweight, which will make it easy for you to move.
As seasoned skiers would say, there is no such thing as bad weather. There is only bad clothing. If you are wearing the right clothes, you will ski easier. Jackets, pants, gloves, and helmets are some of the most important. Everything should be waterproof. It is also good to invest in a ski backpack to help keep your stuff dry.
After investing in the right gear, you also need to pay attention to its care and maintenance. If it is dirty, it will absorb more water and interior condensation can be a problem. It can also compromise breathability.
Wearing a poncho is also a good idea. You can use a makeshift poncho if you don’t have one. A trash bag is the easiest way to do this. You might look stupid at first, but at least, it will help to keep you dry and comfortable as you ski.
If you plan to go skiing in the rain, it is also important that you always bring extra. Especially when the downpour gets more intense, you will most likely get soaked and cold. Having extra clothes will make you feel more comfortable.
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Find the Right Place
If you don’t want the rain to stop you from enjoying the slopes, the best thing to do is to pick the location. Find a sheltered area in the resort. Avoid those that are near drops or steep edges. Even if you know how to ski steep slopes, the snow conditions can be unpredictable when it is raining, so it is best to stay away from such.
It is also recommended that you go to a high part of the resort if you want to ski when it’s raining. If it is raining on the low part of the ski resort, take the lift to the highest peak and you might just be rewarded with more beautiful weather.
Know When to Say No
While you can ski in the rain, this does not mean that you should just do so in haste, any responsible skier will know when it is time to say no. One of the beginner ski mistakes that you should not commit is to think highly of yourself. As a novice, you need to assess your skills and be sure that you can do it before you go.
You should know when to give up. If the rain is too heavy and if it is too windy, better stay safe than sorry. Just stay lazy in the resort and wait for the weather to be better before you go skiing. Be brave enough to cancel the plan if you are unsure if you can do it.
Stay Physically Fit
Invest in your physical health. Live an active and healthy lifestyle. Exercise should be a part of your daily routine. If you are physically fit, your body will easily handle the demands of skiing in the rain. Despite having softer and smoother snow, it will be easier to control your movements.
Be Cautious
This is one of the most important tips when skiing in the rain. Your visibility is reduced. The snow conditions are more challenging. When your clothes are wet, you will find it harder to concentrate. It is important to maintain the presence of mind. Go slow and steady. Learn how to take a break, especially when skiing becomes excruciating.
Globo Surf Overview
Can you ski in the rain? As it is obvious by now, absolutely YES! Skiing in the rain is possible, although, it is more challenging compared to normal conditions. The snow is softer, and the environment can be windy. You can get wet. Aside from investing in the right gear, you should also have a wider stance and ski to improve your balance. Stay cautious and know when you should not go!
More Snow Ski Lesson Guides:
- Ski Tricks For Beginners
- How To Jump On Skis
- What Are Skis Made Of: Ski Construction Guide
- How To Get On And Off Ski Lifts
- How Long Is A Ski Season?
- How Much Does It Cost To Ski
- How To Slow Down Skiing
- How To Ski Rails
- List Of All Types Of Skiing
- How To Stop On Skis