Once you have the essential ski equipment you can enhance your skiing experience with some of the many ski accessories available today. For many skiers some of these items are essential. Besides that, accessories make great gifts for the skiers on your list.
Watches
Some of the more specialized accessories like compasses and GPS systems are not normally needed by an average skier. Every skier, however, can benefit from having a good ski watch. Advanced models have almost everything a skier needs for training and navigation, while basic models are useful for keeping track of your timings and telling the time.
A ski watch has a built-in stop watch and timer which is similar to many other sports watches. These watches are useful for racers since the timer will let you see how your training is progressing. Some other ski watches include such useful features as heart rate monitors, altitude meters, and rate of descent functions. All ski watches need to be shock resistant and waterproof.
GPS devices
Global Positioning System devices are essential for any skier who does backcountry skiing. These devices provide precise positioning anywhere in the world and are useful for navigation and rescue operations. GPS devices are usually handheld units that may include an electronic compass and an altimeter. Some models include map data that eliminates the need for paper maps. Many devices have memory logs that can be downloaded to a computer for storage and analysis.
Compasses
Skiers who stay close to home probably don’t need all the features found in a GPS device, but a handheld compass can come in handy even when skiing in familiar territory. A compass is essential during storm conditions – driving snow will affect your abilities of orienting yourself visually. Compasses come in a wide range of styles.
They can be simple devices or they can be sophisticated electronic instruments with a number of functions besides pointing north. Be sure to get a compass that is designed for use in cold weather.
First aid kits
Mountain skiing is a potentially dangerous sport. It’s always best to be prepared with a first aid kit. These kits are available in many different configurations – there’s no need to carry a bulky kit with you. Basic kits include bandages, antibiotic ointment, and pads for blisters.
More comprehensive kits could include inflatable splints, heat generators and flares.
Ski tuning kits
To get the most enjoyment out of your ski runs it’s essential to keep your skis properly tuned. You can always have them tuned at a pro shop, but this is expensive and offers fewer options than if you learn to do it yourself. A ski tuning kit has all the tools you need to keep your skis in great condition.
A basic kit allows you to sharpen the edges and remove burrs that slow your skis down. More advanced kits have materials for refinishing the bases and polishing the edges. With a good quality kit you can keep your skis in great condition for years.
Waxing kits
To match the current weather conditions you need to wax the bottom of your skis. Powder, crud, and packed trails all have different characteristics and wax can help you get the best performance. Waxing kits have a variety of waxes for different conditions and sometimes include a waxing iron for better application.
You also need to have a wax removal tool to take off old layers of wax before applying a new coat. There are many different waxes available – modern polymer waxes are easy to apply and can be used in combinations to provide customized feel to your skis. Waxing kits make a great gift for any ski enthusiast.
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