Whistler Blackcomb is consistently Ranked the No.1 Ski Resort in North America
Whistler Blackcomb has more terrain than anywhere else in North America with 8.171 acres. During Games time, Whistler Blackcomb will be over 90 per cent open for skiers and riders to enjoy. That’s still more terrain than any other ski resort in North America!
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Ski and snowboard fashion is a world of its own. Beyond the necessary equipment and clothing, there is a myriad of fun and fabulous accoutrements; ski boots with built in heaters, anyone?
Whether an “all the gear, and no idea’r” rider, a decked out ski bunny, or a seasoned veteran, Whistler Blackcomb offers an extensive collection of ski and snowboard specific gear at competitive prices.
Did You Know?
Of Americans interested in learning to ski or snowboard, only 39 per cent were aware that there are stores that sell the equipment and clothing needed to ski and ride. Here at Whistler Blackcomb, we’ve got 25 of them. Happy shopping.
With fabrics, technology and style ever evolving, one of the most intimidating things about getting on a ski hill is looking and feeling like you belong. Not just for style, but for warmth and function. The following is a guide to dressing for a day on the mountain so that you’re prepared for the various elements you might encounter, while looking good.
Dressing for the outdoors has evolved to a layering system with three main components: a base layer, a mid layer and a top layer. The advantages of the layering system are many but most significantly this system allows for adjustment throughout the day. You can peel off a layer if it’s warm and sunny in the afternoon, while at the same time, making sure you can stay dry if it starts to snow. .
Instrumental in keeping you warm, the base layer is vital, yet is often the most overlooked layer. The base layer should be a form fitting, long sleeve garment made of a synthetic, moisture-wicking fabric. Cotton is quite possibly the worst base layer choice. With a non-wicking fabric such as cotton, when you sweat the salt you perspire sits on your skin, which eats away at your body heat making you feel much cooler, much faster. A great base layer, such as Hot Chilly’s, wick the salt off you skin keeping you warmer for longer. A great base layer for the bottom half of your body is yoga pants, or long underwear.
The mid layer is the insulating layer, and should be a fleece. For people prone to feeling a little colder this is the layer to stock up on. Additionally, there is a new fleece fabric available called Soft Shell. Soft Shells are warm like fleece but have an almost rubbery feeling to the outside of them which blocks cold wind from getting in and prevents body heat from getting out.
The outer layer’s number one job is to block wind and precipitation, either in the form of rain or wet snow. Gore-Tex is a well known outer layer that provides top of the line protection from precipitation. Many outerwear clothing companies have created their own version of Gore-Tex that has similar water proofing capabilities for less money. Gore-Tex, with a waterproofing level of 20,000mm (the measurement used to indicate the number of drops an inch of fabric can withstand before water begins to leak through), is not necessary for recreational outdoor adventurers. A waterproofing level of 5,000mm will work for most recreational skiers/snowboarders while a waterproofing level of 10,000mm will be plenty for the ‘enthusiasts’ who stay out in the slushy snow/light rain.
Gloves, hat, a neck warmer (if you're prone to being a bit cooler) and goggles are a must have. One additional key item is a pair of good ski socks. Quick tip: your feet will actually get colder and your boots will not fit properly if you try to double up on regular socks. Hot Chilly's are a great ski sock. Goggles are definitely the most technically involved accessory item, with lens tint the number one thing to look for. As a guideline, pink iridium lenses are a great lens for cloudy or partly sunny days, letting in a lot of light, which ultimately helps you see changes in the snow with the greatest clarity. For super sunny days, an amber or yellow lens is best, blocking the bright rays while maintaining your depth perception.
Need any more tips? The Whistler Blackcomb retail staff has been trained to help you pick out the best gear for your needs. Stop by any Whistler Blackcomb retail location listed below and you’ll be sure to stay warm, dry and in style on the mountains.
