Ride Checklist

Most snowboard clothing manufacturers offer youth outerwear in breathable waterproof and/or water resistant fabrics. These fabrics offer comfort and protection in varying weather conditions. Riders of all abilities tend to make serious contact with the slope at times, which can load their clothing with snow. Snowboard outerwear needs to be not only cool and comfortable, but it has to keep riders dry. At the same time it should offer abrasion reinforcement in areas that take the most punishment, such as knees and butt. With both of the rider’s feet connected to the snowboard, it is essential that outerwear have a more generous cut (baggy style) to provide maneuverability and comfort.

We advise that you dress your children in layers: jacket/pants with moisture-wicking undergarments (polar fleece, T-neck, long underwear). Clothing layers provide flexibility on days when the temperature fluctuates. The school does operate on some below zero mornings. When clothed appropriately (layered system with hat/helmet, goggles and neck warmer/ face mask), children are able to actively enjoy the day.

☐ Snowboard Jacket: Should be large enough for mobility and to accommodate layers underneath.

☐ Snowboard pants or suit: Should be generous in cut for mobility. NOTE that one piece suits often pose difficulty for children during bathroom breaks.

☐ Long underwear: Wicking fabric preferred.

☐ Under-jacket layers: T-neck, sweatshirt, sweater or polar

fleece - wicking fabric preferred.

☐ Snowboard socks: For comfort and to avoid blisters, we recommend two sock layers: a thin wicking polypropylene- like inner sock under a cushioned outer sock for insulation. NO ribbed socks (ribbing can cause irritation and discomfort).

☐ Mittens are preferred over gloves for warmth - waterproof material preferred. Mittens should have an extended cuff design to cover the jacket sleeve and keep snow out. Mitten size and design should allow for use of external or internal wrist guards.

☐ Hat: Fleece (or fleece-lined for cold days) or helmet (highly recommended - see accessories list)

☐ Headband (for warm days)

☐ Neck warmer: Fleece (or face mask for cold days)

☐ Helmet liner: Made of wicking material for cold conditions

Please label all clothing with name and phone number for easy identification.

Snowboarding is a sport where falls can be abrupt, hard, and can occur in many directions. Helmets, wrist guards and hip/butt pads are essential in helping make the initial snowboard learning experience safer and more enjoyable. Proper accessories can make any snowboarding experience safer and more enjoyable. Our experience has shown that the following items help to keep your children safe, comfortable and organized.

☐ Helmet: The ski & ride school highly recommends, but does not require, the use of helmets for all students. We feel that wearing a helmet is a decision each family should make for individual riders. Helmets should have venting slots/plugs for heat regulation. Generally, helmets with soft (removable) ear flaps are more comfortable and allow the rider to hear better. NOTE: It is important that children are sized by specialty shop personnel. Resizing should be performed each season to account for growth factors. A helpful resource is the Lids on Kids website.

☐ Wrist guards for protection of hands and wrists in falls. Be sure to check fit and comfort with rider’s mittens.

☐ Hip/Butt Pad for protection of hip and tailbone in falls, and should fit without restricting movement in snowboard pants.

☐ Snowboard bag: REQUIRED FOR BUS TRANSPORTATION

☐ Snowboard boot bag: REQUIRED FOR BUS TRANSPORTATION to hold boots and loose items

☐ Goggles for snow, sun and wind protection. Check for fit with helmet.

☐ Neck wallet to hold money

☐ Snowboard lock (primarily for teen riders)

☐ Sunscreen and lip balm for sun and wind protection (critical for children on both sunny and cloudy days). A helpful resource is Go Sun Smart.

Please label all accessories with name and phone number for easy identification.