Snow Forecast Update: Fresh Snow On The Way

There’s some very welcome news for skiers planning a winter break: fresh snow is forecast across the Alps and the Pyrenees over the next 7–10 days, with regular snowfall set to significantly improve conditions.

Alps snow conditions so far this season

January has delivered excellent piste conditions across many Alpine ski resorts. A number of storms earlier in the month brought fresh snowfall to both the northern and southern Alps, creating some good off‑piste opportunities as well.

While the early‑season snow was strong, overall snow depths in the Alps have been slightly below average for late January. This is not unusual, but it does mean that sustained snowfall at this point in the season is especially welcome.

Changing weather pattern brings widespread snowfall

As we reach the end of January, forecasts are showing a clear shift in the Alpine weather pattern. Snow is expected to fall widely across the Alps and Pyrenees, with frequent accumulations of around 5–20cm at a time.

With this steady snowfall over several days, many ski resorts could see 50cm or more of new snow within a week, with significantly higher totals at altitude. This kind of gradual accumulation is ideal for building a solid snow base.

What the fresh snow means for skiing holidays

This forecast snowfall is great news for anyone planning a ski trip:

• February ski holidays should benefit from deeper bases and improved coverage.

• Spring skiing in the Alps is looking increasingly positive.

• Better conditions for both piste skiing and off‑piste terrain – although always follow local guidelines when venturing off-piste, respect signs, markers, closed slopes etc. be aware of avalanche risk and make sure you’re properly equipped. Check out Henry’s Avalanche on Facebook

Reliable Alpine weather forecasts

To track snow conditions and ski weather, we regularly consult trusted mountain forecasting sites including:

• WeathertoSki.co.uk

• MeteoBlue.com

• Snow‑Forecast.com

Book a ski holiday with fresh snow on the way

If the improving snow forecast has you thinking about your next ski holiday, we have plenty of options available. Browse our latest ski deals and special offers, use the Solutions Room to tell us exactly what kind of ski break you’re looking for and receive tailored options, or explore resorts and accommodation through our regular search.

You can also sign up to our Latest & Greatest ski deals newsletter, sent weekly and packed with hand‑picked offers.

Skiing in the Alps has already been excellent this season — and with fresh snow forecast, conditions are set to improve even further. If you’re considering a winter or spring ski trip, now is an ideal time to plan.

[gallery type="slideshow" size="large" ids="3028,3029,3030,3031,3034,3033"]

[caption id="attachment_3002" align="alignright" width="300"] Ski boots – an investment[/caption]

Ski boots take more abuse than almost any other bit of ski kit — and poor storage between trips is one of the biggest reasons they end up smelly, damp or uncomfortable.

The good news? Looking after ski boots between trips is simple, as long as you avoid a few common mistakes.

Dry them properly — inside and out

This is the golden rule of boot care.

After skiing:

It’s important to dry boots out overnight. Most accommodations will have heated boot rooms. If you have access to boot dryers use them! They are specifically designed for the purpose and it’s better to use constant, gentle heat rather than high temperature blasts.

At the end of your trip:

• Remove the liners from the shells
• Let both shells and liners air-dry fully at room temperature

Moisture trapped inside liners leads to:

• Bad smells
• Cold feet
• Shortened liner life

Top tip: If you use boot dryers, use low heat only. High heat can damage liners and shells.

Never store boots near direct heat

It’s tempting to dry boots by:

• A radiator
• A fire
• Or a hot air heater

Don’t.

Excess heat can:

• Warp plastic shells
• Shrink liners
• Change how the boot fits

Warm, ventilated rooms are ideal. Hot, dry blasts are not.

Clip the buckles loosely for storage

Once boots are dry and ready to store:

• Reinsert the liners
• Buckle the boots very lightly

This helps the boots:

• Hold their shape
• Avoid shell deformation

Don’t crank the buckles tight — you’re just helping the boot remember its proper shape.

Store boots somewhere dry and well ventilated

Good places to store ski boots between trips:

• Indoors in a hallway or utility room
• In a ventilated boot bag
• On a boot rack in a dry space

Avoid:

• Damp garages
• Cold sheds
• Leaving boots sealed in a bag for days

Fresh air is your friend.

Use footbeds, but remove extras

• Leave your footbeds inside the liners
• Remove extras like:
  • Hand warmers
  • Extra insoles
  • Damp socks (yes, it happens…)

Anything left inside can trap moisture and smells.

Don’t forget the soles

Before storing:

• Check soles for packed snow, grit or salt
• Wipe them clean and dry

This helps protect grip and keeps dirt out of your boot bag and car.

Between-trip storage vs end-of-season

Between trips, keep things simple:

• Dry thoroughly
• Lightly buckle
• Store indoors

Deep cleaning, liner washing and full inspections are better saved for end-of-season storage.

Quick checklist: storing ski boots between trips

✔ Remove liners and dry fully
✔ Keep away from direct heat
✔ Buckle lightly once dry
✔ Store indoors and ventilated
✔ Keep bags unzipped when possible

End-of-season ski boot storage:

This is all about keeping them dry, clean and in shape. Once the season ends, remove liners and footbeds, clean shells and soles, and let everything dry completely at room temperature. Reassemble the boots, buckle them loosely to help maintain their shape, and store them indoors in a cool, dry place — never a damp garage or loft. Avoid sealing boots in airtight bags, as trapped moisture can cause odours and damage liners over summer.

Final word

A little care between trips/seasons means:

• Warmer feet
• Better-fitting boots
• Less smell
• Longer-lasting liners and shells

And that makes every ski day more enjoyable.

Wondering if it’s time to take the plunge and buy your own boots? Check out our post here and get the answers to all your questions!

[caption id="attachment_2965" align="alignleft" width="138"] When to buy your own ski and boots[/caption]

How do you know when it’s the right time to buy your own skis and boots?

Hiring ski equipment is convenient, flexible and often the right choice — especially when you’re starting out. But for many skiers, there comes a point where owning your own kit offers real benefits in comfort, confidence and progression. Here’s some top tips for taking the plunge into ski/boot ownership.

Should You Buy Ski Boots or Skis First?

Hiring is often the right choice — until it isn’t. If you’re going to buy just one piece of equipment, it should almost always be ski boots.

Rental boots are designed to fit as many feet as possible, not your feet specifically. Poorly fitting boots can lead to cold feet, pressure points, and reduced control — all of which affect how well you ski and how much you enjoy it. Comfort problems are the clearest signal it’s time to buy.

Boots make the biggest difference to comfort and control — far more than skis.

When Buying Your Own Ski Boots Makes Sense

Buying your own ski boots is usually worthwhile earlier than buying skis.

It’s a good time to invest in boots if:

• You ski at least once a season

• You regularly experience discomfort in rental boots

• You’re taking lessons or actively trying to improve

• You want consistency every time you ski

A properly fitted boot improves stance, balance and responsiveness, and reduces fatigue — especially over a full ski week.

👉 Tips:

• Always buy boots from a specialist boot fitter — not online — and allow time for adjustments.
• A good boot fitter will also recommend you get a customised insole (conformables/footbeds) fitted to you at the same time as getting new boots. In our opinion, this is not a nice-to-have optional extra, it’s an essential investment and makes an enormous difference to your feel, comfort and performance in the boot. 
• Be prepared to spend time choosing and fitting the right boots. 2 hours plus is not unusual. 
• Don’t be afraid to return to the shop if there is any discomfort. Quite often micro-adjustments to the boot or the footbed can make all the difference. Check on their policy for after-sales service.

How Often Do You Need to Ski to Make It Worthwhile?

Frequency matters, but it’s not just about cost.

If you ski every winter, or more than once a season, owning your own equipment becomes increasingly appealing. You avoid time spent in rental shops, get consistent performance, and know exactly how your kit will behave in different conditions.

That said, even one annual ski trip can justify owning boots if comfort is an issue.

What Level of Skier Should Buy Their Own Equipment?

Beginner rental skis are designed to be forgiving and easy to control — which is ideal when learning. Buying skis too early is a common mistake that skiers make.

As you progress, however, you may start to feel limited by standard rental equipment. If you’re:

• Linking turns confidently

• Comfortable on red runs

• Beginning to ski varied snow conditions

…then equipment matched to your ability, height and skiing style can help you progress more naturally.

Key takeaway:
Skis should support your skiing — not restrict it.

When It’s Time to Buy Your Own Skis

[caption id="attachment_2973" align="alignleft" width="225"] When to buy skis[/caption]

Unlike boots, skis are best bought once you have a clearer idea of what you enjoy.

Before buying, it helps if you:

• Ski regularly
• Know whether you prefer piste, all-mountain or mixed terrain
• Have tried different skis through rental or demo days

Many resorts offer “try before you buy” schemes, allowing you to test skis in real conditions — an excellent way to avoid an expensive mistake.

When Renting Skis Is Still the Better Option

Buying isn’t always the right answer.

Continuing to rent may be better if:

• You ski infrequently

• You’re still at an early beginner stage

• You enjoy experimenting with different skis each trip

• You don’t want to travel with or store equipment

Modern rental fleets are high quality and well maintained, making them a perfectly good option for many skiers.

[caption id="attachment_2963" align="alignleft" width="166"] When to buy your own ski boots and skis[/caption]

Final Thoughts: Boots First, Skis When You’re Ready

There’s no single “right moment” to buy ski equipment — but there is a logical order.

• Buy boots as soon as comfort and consistency matter

• Buy skis once your skiing style and preferences are established

• Don’t rush — but don’t let rental gear hold you back

The right equipment won’t magically improve your technique, but it will make skiing more comfortable, more consistent, and ultimately more enjoyable.

Are you an expert boot-fitter? We’d love to hear your thoughts. 

Have you had a great experience when buying skis or boots? Let us know where!

Leave us a comment below!

Haven’t booked your next ski trip yet? Why not try the Solutions Room and get all the answers to your questions for your next trip – such as where and how to hire, how far you need to walk in ski boots, are there regular shuttles/ski buses etc. It’s an amazing resource and has been helping skiers find what they’re looking for for over 20 years!

 

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Do your checks — properly.

Look at live road conditions and weather forecasts on the day you travel. Snowfall can close passes, slow access roads, and trigger chain controls with little notice, even when valley motorways look clear.

Have the right kit — and know how to use it.

Winter tyres are excellent,  but snow chains or socks are essential and often mandatory on the final climb into resort. Don’t leave them in the boot untouched: practice fitting them before you go. When signs say chains are required, it’s not optional. There may even be local police on the road directing traffic into safe areas where chains/socks can be fitted.

It’s also a good idea to pack in an old towel and something you can kneel on when fitting chains.

Change your driving style.

Slow everything down. Gentle acceleration, longer braking distances, and smooth steering are key. Traction control and snow modes help, but they don’t defy physics — your inputs matter more.

Give yourself time.

Heavy snow means queues, checkpoints, and snowploughs doing their job. Build in extra time and avoid rushing — most winter driving problems start with people trying to stick to an unrealistic schedule.

Be self-sufficient.

Carry warm layers, gloves, water, snacks, and a charged phone. If traffic stops, comfort and calm make all the difference.

The reward?

Snow-covered mountains and fresh conditions when you arrive. With the right mindset and preparation, driving to the Alps in heavy snow is perfectly manageable — and often the first sign you’re in for a great week on the slopes.

The snowy scenes above are from this morning 10th Jan 2026! Tempted by the snow conditions right now? Start with the Solutions Room and speak directly to ski experts ready to help!

 

 

[caption id="attachment_2916" align="alignleft" width="225"] Making sure you’re ready for the conditions -> you’ll enjoy the ski day a lot more![/caption]

January often brings the best skiing conditions of the season — quieter slopes, colder snow and crystal-clear days. But when temperatures really drop, staying warm skiing can quickly become the biggest challenge.

Knowing how to stay warm on the slopes in a cold snap isn’t about adding endless layers. It’s about managing circulation, sweat and timing — the small adjustments experienced skiers make without thinking.

If you’re skiing in January or heading out during a deep cold spell, follow these smart tips. They will help you stay warm and comfortable. You will make the most of every run.

1. Warm Your Body Before You Go Outside

Most skiers step straight from a warm chalet into the cold and expect their body to cope. The problem?
Your muscles and circulation haven’t “woken up” yet.

What to do:

• Do a 5–7 minute warm-up indoors (air squats, leg swings, ankle rolls, gentle hops).

• This primes circulation so warm blood reaches fingers and toes sooner

• You’ll feel warmer on the first lift instead of freezing for 30 minutes.

Here’s a 5 minute warm up routine to do before you go outside.

2. Don’t Over-Layer — It Can Make You Colder

This surprises people.

Too many layers can:

• Restrict blood flow
• Trap sweat
• Cause chilling once you stop moving

Rule of thumb:

• Base layer: warm and breathable
• Mid-layer(s): insulation, not bulk
• Outer layer: windproof and waterproof

If you feel slightly cool standing still, you’re probably dressed perfectly for skiing. Check out our post on what to pack for your ski holiday.

3. Protect Your Extremities First

Your body sacrifices hands, feet, ears, and face to keep your core warm.

High-impact upgrades:

• Mittens instead of gloves (huge difference)
• Thin liner socks + proper ski socks (never double socks)
• Neck tube or balaclava that seals the gap between helmet and jacket
• A helmet liner or thin hat on very cold days

Cold hands and feet usually mean poor circulation, not lack of insulation.

4. Manage Sweat Like a Pro

Sweat is the enemy in cold conditions.

If you sweat on the first run, you’ll freeze on the lift.

Simple fixes:

• Unzip slightly on warmer runs
• Remove a layer at lunch if needed
• Avoid cotton anywhere near your skin

Dry = warm. Always.

5. Fuel and Hydration Matter More Than You Think

Your body generates heat by burning fuel.

Cold-day essentials:

• Eat a proper breakfast with carbs and fats
• Snack regularly (nuts, bars, chocolate all help)
• Drink water — dehydration reduces circulation

Many people feel cold simply because they’re under-fueled.

6. Keep Moving — But Smartly

Standing still in the cold is when heat loss spikes.

Experienced skiers:

• Keep moving in lift queues
• Make small leg movements on chairlifts
• Avoid long static stops unless sheltered

Motion = circulation = warmth.

7. Take Advantage of Mountain Timing

Cold air pools in valleys early and late in the day.

On very cold days:

• Start mid-morning, not first lift
• Ski sunny aspects when possible
• Take longer indoor breaks and shorter outdoor ones

There’s no prize for suffering — smart timing makes a huge difference.

8. Accept That Some Days Are Shorter — and That’s OK

Even the best-equipped skiers sometimes call it early.

If you’re warm, you ski better.
If you ski better, you enjoy it more.

That’s the goal.

Cold Weather Skiing FAQ’s

Planning a January ski trip? Explore quieter resorts and well-located chalets ideal for cold-weather skiing on Chalets Direct.

Final Thought

Staying warm on the slopes isn’t about brute force layering — it’s about preparation, circulation, and awareness. The skiers who look relaxed on freezing days aren’t tougher — they’re just smarter.

And when the conditions are cold but perfect?
That’s often when the mountains are at their best.

Back in 1999, Chalets Direct launched something that would change how people find ski holidays: the Solutions Room.

Since then The Solutions Room has been used by tens of thousands of ski holidaymakers, and over 800,000 solutions have been posted. The Solutions Room works alongside Chalets Direct’s chalet and apartment listings, giving you another way to find ski holiday accommodation across the Alps when availability is limited or plans are flexible..

The Chalets Direct Solutions Room helps skiers and snowboarders find the right ski holiday accommodation without endless searching. Whether you’re looking for a catered chalet, a self-catered apartment, or flexible ski holiday options across the Alps, the Solutions Room connects you directly with operators who still have availability.

What is the Chalets Direct Solutions Room for ski holidays?

Think of it as a holiday matchmaking service.

You post what you’re looking for – dates, resort ideas, group size, budget, catered or self-catered – and the right chalet and apartment owners come back to you with offers that actually fit.

If you’re unsure on the details, that’s fine too. The Solutions Room is perfect for sounding things out and seeing what options exist before you commit.

So you can be specific – “I need a catered chalet space for two for next week, close to Geneva” – or open to ideas – “what’s available for 6 in January”?

How the Solutions Room matches you with ski chalets and apartments

Behind the scenes, there’s a lot going on.

Your request is instantly matched with Chalets Direct members who meet your criteria and still have availability.
So:

• Looking for a catered chalet in Morzine at Christmas? Only relevant operators are notified.

• Flexible on dates and destination in January? Multiple suitable providers are alerted.

• Organising a large group trip, a luxury apartment, or a last-minute escape? The system works just as well.

No trawling listings. No guesswork. Just targeted responses from people who can actually help.

Why the Solutions Room is different from traditional ski holiday searches

Most holiday searches put the work on you.
The Solutions Room flips that around.

You explain what you want once, and the industry comes to you. It’s efficient, flexible, and especially useful if:

• You’re short on time

• You’re organising a group

• You’ve left it late

• You don’t yet know where to start

Why not try the Solutions Room to find your next ski holiday?

With the ski season now fully underway, conditions across the Alps are developing fast. Fresh snowfall is forecast for the south-western Alps this week, while colder temperatures are setting in later this week across the north-western Alps and the Dolomites, helping preserve existing snow and improve piste conditions. Whether you’re planning a last-minute ski break or looking ahead to the coming weeks, now is a great time to explore what’s available.

The Solutions Room has already helped thousands of skiers find the right holiday.
There’s a very good chance it can help you too.

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[caption id="attachment_2814" align="alignright" width="225"] Looking good on the slopes is part of the fun![/caption]

Packing for a ski holiday can feel like organising a mini-expedition. Bulky kit, unpredictable weather, and the constant “have I forgotten something?” nag can turn the build-up to your trip into a small headache. But with the right plan — and a smart checklist — it’s easy to arrive in resort fully prepared and ready to enjoy the mountains.

Whether you’re heading to a cosy self-catered chalet or a luxury catered stay, here’s your complete guide to what to pack and how to pack it efficiently.

1. Start With the Essentials: Clothing You Actually Need

Ski clothing is your biggest space-taker, so focus on layers that keep you warm, dry, and comfortable.

Base Layers

• Thermal tops and leggings (merino or technical synthetic)
• Sports underwear
• Ski socks

Mid Layers

• Lightweight fleece or microfleece
• Thin down or synthetic puffer (ideal for colder days) – and can double up for evening too.

Outer Layers

• Waterproof, breathable ski jacket
• Waterproof ski trousers/salopettes
• Gloves or mittens (plus glove liners if you run cold)
• Neck warmer or buff
• Helmet (you can rent if preferred)
• Hat/beanie for resort time
• Goggles (with lenses suited for sun and snow)
• Sunglasses for sunny terrace lunches

2. Ski Gear: Bring It or Rent It?

Most travellers do a mix. Bringing your own boots is the biggest comfort boost; skis and poles are easy to rent in-resort.

Pack if You Have Them:

• Ski boots (use a boot bag; fill the space with socks or gloves)
• Skis and poles (if you love your own kit)
• Helmet (optional to bring; easy to rent)

Rent to Save Space:

• Skis, poles, helmet
• Snowboard and boots
• Avalanche gear (if heading off-piste with a guide)

3. Don’t Forget the Small but Vital Items

These often get missed — and can be annoying or expensive to replace in resort.

• Sun cream (high SPF) & lip balm
• Phone power bank
• Small backpack for the slopes
• Reusable water bottle
• Mini first-aid kit
• Painkillers, blister plasters
• Travel adaptor
• Slippers or comfy indoor shoes for chalets
• Swimwear (for spas or chalet hot tubs)

4. Après & Chalet Clothing

You don’t need much — resorts are casual.

• Jeans or warm trousers
• Jumpers/fleeces/long-sleeve t-shirts
• Cosy socks
• Casual boots or snow boots (grippy soles are a must)
• Outfit for a nice dinner out (optional)

5. Toiletries & Personal Care

Cold, dry air = keep your skin happy.

• Moisturiser
• Lip balm
• Contact lenses & solution
• Medications
• Check ahead to see if accommodation supplies shower gel/shampoo/conditioner etc

6. How to Pack Efficiently (So Everything Actually Fits)

Packing for a ski holiday doesn’t have to mean sitting on your suitcase to zip it shut.

Top Space-Saving Tips

• Roll, don’t fold, your base and mid-layers.
• Use compression packing cubes for bulky items.
• Wear your ski jacket and bigger boots for travel.
• Put gloves, socks, buffs, and thermals inside your ski boots.
• If travelling with others, share larger items like toiletries.

7. Smart Travel Documents & Logistics

A seamless arrival makes the whole holiday feel smoother.

• Lift pass (if pre-purchased)
• Chalet or accommodation instructions
• Transfer details
• Travel insurance with winter sports cover
• Driving essentials (if self-driving: chains, breakdown cover)

8. A Ready-Made Ski Holiday Packing Checklist

Copy, print, or save this to your phone before you go.

Clothing

• Thermal layers
• Fleece
• Ski jacket & trousers
• Ski Gloves/mittens
• Buff
• Socks (2–3)
• Snow boots
• Casual outfits
• Beanie/Hat for resort
• Swimwear

Gear

• Boots
• Goggles and sunglasses
• Helmet
• Backpack
• Water bottle

Toiletries & Health

• SPF
• Lip balm
• Moisturiser
• First aid
• Medications

Documents

• Passport/ID
• Ski pass
• Accommodation info
• Insurance
• Transfer/driving details

Other Essentials

• Phone charger
• Travel plug

Final Tip: Plan Ahead & Travel Light(er)

Early planning saves money (especially on ski hire and lift passes), avoids luggage stress, and lets you focus on the fun part — fresh snow, mountain views, and that first glide down the piste.

Your First Day Back on Skis: Top Tips to get it right

The first day of your ski holiday sets the tone for the whole week — yet it’s the day so many people get wrong. After months or even a full year off snow, it’s natural to be excited, but excitement often leads to rushing, fatigue, poor technique … and injuries that were completely avoidable.

Getting your first day right is simple. Think of it as recalibration — waking up dormant skills, reactivating your muscles and nervous system, and reminding your body how to move on snow.

Here’s exactly what to do to make sure your first day is safe, fun and sets you up for the best possible week.

1. Accept that you haven’t skied for a while — and that’s OK

Most holidaymakers ski 5–10 days per year. That means:

• Your technical timing won’t be sharp

• Your legs won’t be ski-fit

• Your stance may feel odd

• Your balance reactions will be slower than you expect

This is completely normal. In fact, even elite skiers take a few runs to “feel the snow”. Your goal on Day 1 isn’t to prove anything — it’s to wake up the system.

Another thing to bear in mind is that it’s normal to experience first day, or even first week, nerves. Don’t beat yourself up if your confidence is not where you’d like it to be. (Check out our ski confidence tips blog to help out)

2. Start with a short warm-up before you even click into your skis

A good warm-up wakes up both:

Your muscles

• Glutes
• Quads
• Hamstrings
• Core

AND your central nervous system (CNS)

This is what controls balance, coordination, edge control and reaction speed.

A great pre-ski warm-up takes just 5 minutes:

• 20 bodyweight squats
• 10–15 reverse lunges each side
• 20 seconds of small hops
• 10 seconds of lateral shuffles
• 10 seconds of quick feet
• 3–4 deep breaths to relax the upper body

Your muscles feel warmer — but more importantly, your nervous system wakes up, meaning your skiing will feel smoother from the first run.

Here’s a quick warm-up to do in your bedroom!

3. Begin on an easy slope — even if you’re experienced

This isn’t about “beginner runs”. It’s about allowing your body to re-sync. The best World Cup skiers always do this without exception.

Start on a gentle blue or a friendly green and focus on:

• Slow linked turns

• Feeling the edges

• Re-finding your natural stance

• Balance over the outside ski

• Smooth weight transfer

After 2–3 runs, you’ll feel everything coming back.

4. Focus on good technique early

Many holidaymakers fall into the trap of skiing too fast early in the day, using brute strength instead of technique — this is what causes leg burn, frustration, and injuries.

Instead, spend the first 60–90 minutes on:

✔ Feeling your balance through the soles of your feet

✔ Smooth turn shape

✔ Feeling the snow under both skis

✔ Re-finding your rhythm

✔ Finishing turns cleanly and controlling your speed

✔ Skiing without tension

These early cues will make the rest of the week better.

5. Take a break earlier than you want to

Your legs will feel fresh but your stabilising muscles and CNS fatigue much faster on Day 1 than you think.

Stop for a drink, a snack or a coffee after 60–90 minutes, not three hours.

A short break will:

• Reset your balance

• Prevent sloppy technique

• Keep you fresh for the afternoon

• Reduce the risk of falls

• Keep your holiday enjoyable rather than exhausting

6. Build up your terrain gradually

Think of the day in three phases:

Phase 1 — Reboot (gentle blues)

Find your stance, balance and rhythm.

Phase 2 — Rebuild (normal blues / easy reds)

Increase speed and turn shape once things feel natural.

Phase 3 — Ride (reds / challenging terrain)

Only progress when you feel clean, confident and in control.

This progression ensures you feel great instead of fighting your skis by 3pm.

7. Don’t chase miles — chase quality

Holidaymakers often treat Day 1 like a marathon: “Let’s do as many runs as possible!”

But your skiing improves far more if you:

• Ski fewer runs with better technique

• Stop when you’re tired

• Keep turns clean instead of messy

• Finish the day feeling good, not wrecked

Your best skiing usually happens on Days 2 to 4, and the quality of Day 1 dictates how good those days will be.

8. Finish earlier than usual

End the day while you still feel fresh. This protects you from:

• Falls

• Twisted knees

• Fatigue-based injuries

• Poor technique habits

Going back to the chalet with energy and confidence sets up your whole week.

9. Optional but highly recommended: Book a one-hour refresher lesson

Even experienced skiers benefit enormously from 60 minutes with a top instructor on Day 1.

It helps with:

• Technique reminders

• Balance cues

• Turn shape correction

• Bad habits reset

• Confidence boost

It makes a massive difference, especially if you ski only once or twice a year.

10. Enjoy the feeling of being back

The first day is about:

• rediscovering the snow

• re-finding your rhythm

• reawakening skills you’ve built over years

• enjoying the mountains

• easing your body back into movement

Don’t rush the day. Let the skiing come back naturally.

Final Thought

Your first day back on skis isn’t about proving anything — it’s about preparing your body and your confidence for a brilliant week.

If you warm up properly, start gently, focus on technique and take breaks early, you’ll ski better all week, feel safer, and enjoy more effortless skiing.

Are you still looking for that first ski holiday? Try the Solutions Room – it’s our unique space where you post up what you want and let the offers come back to you! Try it now!

https://youtube.com/embed/4rZ5zm7SA6w?si=wQ4G6yjSw6fRZ4VM

The Buzz of the Ski Season Begins: Early Snowfall Brings Europe to Life

[gallery ids="2741,2747,2742,2743,2744,2745,2746" type="slideshow" size="large"] There’s nothing quite like the electric moment winter announces its return. One minute the mountains look calm and autumnal — the next, social feeds explode with white peaks, powder-covered trees, and excited resort teams firing up the lifts. This year, Europe’s ski season is kicking off with exactly the kind of early-season magic everyone hopes for. The last ten days have brought mega dumps of snow, particularly to the north-western Alps, and resorts are opening with record snow depths. The snow is so good in Avoriaz, Flaine,  and Argentiere, they had a pre-opening weekend on Nov 29th-30th – a November opening is unheard of! Flaine is opening definitively this Saturday, 6th December. Many more resorts will follow suit on 13th.

Not only has snow has arrived early, it’s come down in generous quantities. It’s an amazing start to winter 2025/26 — and the excitement is almost tangible.

Early Snow Creates a Stir

For keen skiers and snowboarders, early snow signals one thing: it’s time to start planning that ski holiday.

Resorts gain momentum, webcams become addictive, and anticipation builds as piste teams begin preparing the first runs of the season.

The early snow means that there is a solid snow-base. Resorts have the reassurance of good conditions ahead. When the mountains turn white earlier than expected, everyone feels it.

A Fresh Start for Mountain Adventures

After the long wait since last spring, this first snowfall reignites everything we love about skiing:

• The promise of crisp morning pistes 
• Seeing pine trees heavy with fresh snow
• Sipping hot chocolate or vin chaud by a roaring fire
• The thrill of fresh powder 
• Enjoying spectacular views from the chairlift or walking out at the top of the gondola to an amazing mountain panorama
• The excitement of choosing a resort, booking accommodation, and counting down to departure day

Now Is the Perfect Time to Book your Ski Holiday

With the buzz building and the mountains already looking beautiful and wintry, it’s an ideal moment to plan your next escape.

On Chalets Direct, you’ll find a wide range of ski chalets, apartments, and independent ski accommodation across the Alps — from cosy hideaways to spacious catered lodges. Early snow is always a sign that the season is ready to roll… and this year, it’s making a spectacular entrance.

Find your perfect ski holiday on Chalets Direct, check out our special offers, or use the Solutions Room to get answers in double-quick time!

If you’re dreaming of fresh turns, snowy mornings, and a winter getaway that starts the season on a high, now’s the time to browse, book, and get excited.

Winter has arrived. The Alps are ready. Are you?

Feel Ready, Loose, and Confident Before You Even Step Outside

[caption id="attachment_2456" align="alignleft" width="225"] Get loose for skiing[/caption]

A short physical, and mental, ski warm up routine will make all the difference to those first turns on your ski holiday – whether you last skied last year or last week!

You’ve finally arrived in resort. The snow is perfect, the first lift is calling — and your body?
Still half asleep, slightly stiff from travel, and not entirely sure where its balance went.

Most skiers step into their ski boots cold, tight, and under-caffeinated. But with just five minutes in your hotel/chalet room, you can completely transform how your first run feels and get more from your ski holiday!

This isn’t a workout.
It’s a simple ski warm up routine designed to wake up your muscles, sharpen your balance, and make you feel like a skier before you even zip up your jacket.

🎿 Why a Ski Warm Up Matters

Skiing isn’t just about fitness — it’s a skill sport.
The first few runs of the day are when most people get hurt, mostly because cold muscles and sleepy reflexes can’t react quickly enough to snow conditions or other skiers.

A quick pre-ski warm up supports:

• Up to 50% lower injury risk

• Improved balance and control

• Instant confidence — that calm feeling of “I’ve got this”

Whether you’re staying in a ski chalet, hotel, or mountain apartment, these movements fit anywhere.

🧘‍♂️ Step 1: Wake Up Your Core (60 seconds)

You don’t need space — just stand beside your bed.

Moves:

• Torso Twists – 10 each side
  Why: Activates your core and improves upper–lower body separation for smoother turns.

• Arm Swings – 10 forward, 10 back
  Why: Releases shoulder tension so your pole plants feel natural.

Mindset: Slow breathing, gentle movements. You’re waking up, not working out.

🦵 Step 2 – Activate Your Legs (2 Minutes)

Your legs are your suspension system. Get them responsive before you step outside.

Moves:

• Mini Squats – 15 slow reps
  Feel: Weight centred, knees tracking softly over toes.

• Lunges – 5 each side
  Feel: A stretch through your hip flexors — especially needed after long flights or transfers.

• Heel Raises – 15 reps
  Feel: Pressure through the ball of your foot, just like when balancing on skis.

Tip: Do this part barefoot to fire up your proprioception (body awareness).

🦶 Step 3 – Switch On Your Ankles & Balance (90 Seconds)

Stiff ankles equal clumsy skiing. Let’s change that.

Moves:

• Ankle Circles – 5 each direction

• Single-Leg Balance – 30 seconds each side
  Variation: Close your eyes for the last 10 seconds to challenge your balance.

You’ll feel tiny micro-adjustments in your supporting leg — just like the adjustments you make on snow.

🧠 Step 4 – Visualise Your First Run (60 Seconds)

This is the secret the best skiers never skip.

Close your eyes and imagine:

• The sound of your skis on the snow

• Your weight shifting smoothly edge to edge

• Yourself skiing relaxed, fluid and confident

Mental rehearsal boosts performance and control by up to 15% — ideal before a big ski holiday day.

☕ Step 5 – Bonus Hotel Room Mobility While the Kettle Boils

• These small habits loosen everything up:

  • 10 gentle hip circles

  • 10 slow toe touches

  • A light march in place while waiting for your coffee

  It’s not a “session.” It’s intentional movement — and your body loves it.

❄️ The Payoff: Start Your Ski Day Ready, Warm and Confident

By the time you reach the lift:

• Your muscles are warm

• Your balance reflexes are awake

• Your mind is focused

This means your first run feels smooth and enjoyable — not stiff or survival-mode.

Perfect if you’re gearing up for a ski holiday, staying in ski chalets, or preparing for a week of mountain adventure.

🧠 Ski Warm Up Benefits at a Glance

• Injury risk reduction: up to 50%

• Improved control and coordination: around 10–12%

• Performance boost from visualisation: up to 15%

• Time required: under 5 minutes

🏔️ The Takeaway

You don’t need a gym, special kit, or a long stretching session.
Just five focused minutes before breakfast can completely change how you ski.

The best skiers warm up before the first run — not after the first fall.
Start small, start early, and your body will thank you all week.

There’s a lot more tips and pre-ski warm up routines on Youtube – check them out. Here’s a good one from The Warren Smith Ski Academy!

If you’re wondering how to incorporate ski fitness into your working day, check out Train Like a Skier on your Commute