New to Whistler Kids is Flaik Tracking Solutions. Flaik is a real-time tracking solution that combines a GPS tag worn by skiers and riders that provides extra safety and allows participants to log their day to see what runs they were on, how much vertical was achieved and see where they want to ski in the future. All children in our Club Programs will wear a Flaik GPS device while accompanied by their instructor.

More Information on Flaik GPS Tracking.

Also new for 2010.2011, Whistler Kids Snow School will now offer snowboard lessons for children as young as four years old. The program includes a mini terrain park at the Children’s Learning Centre and new snowboards specially designed for little shredders. New free-ride camps, sponsored by Showcase Snowboard Surf and Skate Shop will also be available this winter.

Snow School Discover Whistler Days for the 2010.2011 winter season are a great way to save, offering up to 30 per cent off select ski and snowboard lessons. The 2010.2011 Discover Whistler Days are scheduled Opening Day to December 17, January 17 to February 18 and March 26 to April 10, 2011.

Skiing versus snowboarding; which one is right for you?

Choosing whether to ski or snowboard all comes down to preference. If you think you might like to try snowboarding, prepare to spend some time on your bum in the beginning. The flow of snowboarding can take a little time to catch on, but once you’ve got it, you’ve got it for good. People learning how to snowboard also tend to progress rather quickly.

For skiing, most people find it a bit easier to stay standing while learning to turn. The finesse and fine-tuning required to become a great skier tends to take more time. To start, pick the option you gravitate more towards. But, if you tried snowboarding and it wasn’t for you, try skiing (and vice versa) as they are quite different.

Let’s move on to equipment.

Skiing

Boots
There are a number of different styles of ski boots, but the most important thing is that they are comfortable, though snug on your feet.

When you arrive at a Whistler Blackcomb rental shop, it is a good idea to come with a pair of medium to lightweight ski socks. Ski socks are different in that they fit snugly around your foot minimizing blisters or chafing and provide warmth. Wearing two pairs of socks for warmth may seem like a good idea, but in fact, this can lead to blisters and chafing as well.

With the right socks on, your big toe should barely touch the front of the boot and when you bend your knee, your big toe should be able to slide back very slightly. Make sure there aren’t any pressure points or any pinching. Your rental tech will be able to help coach you through selecting the right-sized boots so you don’t need to remember all of this. Do remember, however, that ski boots are not meant to feel like evening slippers. They should fit snugly around your foot when fully done up. The movements that you make with your feet need to travel through the boots to make the skies turn which is why a snug fit is required.

Skis
Like most sports, there are different skis for different types of ability, gender and the type of terrain and snow conditions you’re looking to explore. For beginners, Whistler Blackcomb offers rental skis designed for beginners. To the eye, you can’t tell the difference, but there is a more exaggerated shape to the ski that helps make turning easier which allows beginner and intermediate skiers to improve faster. When renting, simply let your rental technician know you’re starting out in the sport and they’ll help select the right beginner ski for you.

Poles
Poles are used to help with balance and rhythm when skiing. The Whistler Blackcomb rental technician will be able to assist choosing the right-sized poles for your height.

Snowboarding

Boots
For beginner snowboarders, boots feel a lot more comfortable than ski boots. However, the same principles in boot fitting apply as what we mentioned above. Don’t forget those medium to lightweight socks and remember that your boots, like ski boots, should fit snugly around your foot when done up. When you arrive at a Whistler Blackcomb rental shop it is a good idea to come with a pair of medium to lightweight ski socks. Snowboard socks are different in that they fit snugly around your foot minimizing blisters or chafing and provide warmth. Wearing two pairs of socks for warmth may seem like a good idea, but in fact, this can lead to blisters and chafing as well.

With the right socks on, your big toe should barely touch the front of the boot and when you bend your knee, your big toe should be able to slide back very slightly. Make sure there aren’t any pressure points or any pinching. Your rental tech will be able to help coach you through selecting the right sized boots so you don’t need to remember all of this. Your snowboard boot should fit snugly around your foot when filly done up. The movements that you make with your feet need to travel through the boots to make the snowboard turn which is why a snug fit is required.

Board
Like skis, there are a number of different types of boards for ability level, gender and terrain type of snow you’re planning to hit. Whistler Blackcomb offers Burton boards that are designed specifically for beginners. You can’t tell by looking at the board but they are shaped slightly different to make turning a little easier. In addition, there is a very slight upwards angle on the edge of the board which helps decrease the number of times a beginner catches an edge (otherwise known as falling.)

As you progress, board selection will change depending on gender (women specific boards) and the type of snowboarding you’re looking to do: big mountain or parks riding. Again, the Whistler Blackcomb rental technicians or the retail staff at Showcase Snowboards can help you select the best board for you.