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January Snow Update
So how's the ski season been so far?
We're now a few weeks into season 2012-13 and it's proving to be a corker! Abundant snow in early December meant that most resorts could open up with a good solid base – and despite warmer weather over Christmas, January has so far provided welcome top ups – along with bracing sub-zero temperatures.
In most European resorts snow depths are pretty respectable for the time of year – both in resort and at the top, with some resorts (eg. Chamonix and Flaine) even registering over 3 metres at the top – quite exceptional for mid-late January. Snow quality is good, even down to low altitudes thanks to an extreme sub-zero snap and heavy snowfall around 10 days ago and more last week.
Resorts in the Pyrenees are also enjoying great conditions, despite pendulum changing temperatures – and it looks llike there's more snow coming to the region imminently.
The forecast is looking pretty good – European resorts may be getting another nice top up at the weekend.
Piste conditions are pretty good and there's been some excellent off-piste opportunities.
So if you're tempted to escape the snow at home, get to the mountains to enjoy it – that's where the snow is a blessing not a curse and is welcomed with smiles and open arms!
At the top of the Grand Massif yesterday, Jan 20th, looking over towards Megeve/Les Contamines. Mont Blanc and the Chamonix Valley is just out of shot to the left.So as you can see, beautiful snow, blue skies, empty pistes – even on a Sunday.
Need any more reasons to get out there? For some cool holiday ideas take a look at our Last Minute promotions area, or try our Solutions Room if you need a helping hand!
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Top Tips for Skiing in Early Season
The season has started with a bang! Loads of snow has fallen across Europe over the last 10 days or so, and there's more in the forecast. It's looking like it could be a record opening for many resorts – with snow depths already being measured in the metres, even in non-glacial resorts. The majority of ski resorts in Europe have opened last weekend, 15th December, some with limited opening. The rest will be opening for this weekend in preparation for the Christmas week revellers.It's looking like Christmas week will start mild and get colder. At the moment it's hard to say exactly but meteofrance for example is forecasting positive temperatures for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day becoming sub-zero by Boxing Day.
Skiing in December and January can often throw up different challenges as you try to cope with cold, wind, snow etc. How best can you prepare for changing weather and conditions? Here's some top tips to help!
1. Layer Up
It really is best to have good technical base layers. Forget your cotton vest and long johns, you need a wicking fabric which draws perspiration away from the skin. This is as important for beginners as it is for experts. Beginners will expend more energy in the early days than intermediates – the effort of staying upright and getting up after a fall for example, coupled with having to deal with unfamiliar equipment, will get you working up a sweat. On cold nursery slopes in December and January, which are often in the shadows, any moisture on the skin can cause you to get very cold very quickly. Wicking base layers means the skin stays dry and keeps warm.In milder temperatures the layering system means that you can easily drop a layer if you need to. Remember also that at this time of year when the days are at their shortest, the amount of direct sun you'll get will be minimal.
2. Morning Checklist
It's easy to forget those little extras which make life more bearable – especially if you haven't been on the slopes since last year. If you have kids to organise it's also a headache making sure they have everything with them. One seasoned ski mum we know posts a checklist in a very visible area – so that each family member will see it before they walk out. Her checklist includes essentials such as lift pass, goggles, ski poles, lip salve, gloves. sun screen. It's a good idea to have your own checklist and make sure everyone refers to it before leaving the accommodation.3. Eyewear – Make it Goggles
Goggles are really the only eyewear you should be wearing if the weather and light are bad. Goggle lenses allow more light in than sunglasses and provide better protection. Go for orange/red tinted goggles which give better visibility on "flat light" days – those times when it could be white-out conditions, or cloudy, and it's hard to see the contours of the slope.Treat your goggles well and they will last you years. Always use a goggle cloth to wipe the outside, never tissues or a sleeve etc, and NEVER wipe the inside of your goggles. This will just wipe off the protective coating and mean that they will steam up quicker.
4. Neckwarmers – the Skiers and Snowboarders friend
It's difficult to under-estimate how useful and effective these little items are. The neckwarmer covers that area between the top of your jacket and the bottom of your hat/helmet – commonly known as the neck! They also block out the wind and snow. They can be pulled up to cover part of your face on a cold chairlift. Choose one that's in a technical fabric so they will dry quickly and be ready to use everyday.5. Boots – Dry them out at the end of day
Wherever you're staying make sure you can keep your boots in a heated area overnight so that any dampness is dried out before the next morning. Moisture in your boots will quickly freeze and cause cold toes and feet – which can severely affect your enjoyment.Whether you're heading out for the festive season or shortly after we'd like to wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that you have a great and magical ski holiday!
Related articles
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Snowfall!
The social networks are buzzing with the news today. After a snowy weekend, with the opening of the ski World Cup circuit taking place in blizzard conditions, ski resorts across Europe have received their first big snowfalls for the winter.
35cms in Verbier, 30cms in Flaine, all over the 3 Valleys, Morzine, Solden, Alpe d'Huez – it looks like everywhere has received a healthy helping of the white stuff.
Of course it's only late October, so we know that with the vagaries of the weather, this snow could disappear. Temperatures, at least for the next few days however, are staying low. It's good news for resorts, and means that the ground will start to freeze – so any new snow that falls has a much better chance of sticking around. Any precipitation now is a good thing!
With the London Ski Show opening tomorrow, we've all got that feeling that we're on the brink of winter and the ski season wil be starting proper in a matter of weeks!
So we thought we'd just share some of the photos posted on Facebook and twitter today – hopefully they will make your Monday!
Posted by Powder n Shine on their Facebook page this morning. Reberty, Les Menuires, Three Valleys, France
Posted by Warren Smith Academy on Facebook – 35cms in Verbier.
Alpe d'Huez – not to waste the opportunity of cold, cold temperatures, the snow cannons are working overtime. See the full album on their Facebook page. -
The Solutions Room – a unique way to find your next alpine holiday!
The big hits in music of 1999 were from newcomers Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Eminem. The big hit to appear in the ski world that year was the Solutions Room from Chalets Direct. Like Britney, Christina and Eminem, the Solutions Room is still around – more mature and sophisticated, and still rocking!
What is it exactly?
Just in case you haven't heard about the Solutions Room, and what it does, here's a quick synopsis.
It's based on a forum idea – you ask a question and people come back to you with answers. This forum however has lots of magic going on under the surface.
If you're not sure when, where and who you're having your holiday with, the Solutions Room is a great place to put out feelers and see what options come back.
Similarly if you're absolutely sure where, when and with whom, the Solutions Room can get you targeted responses to your questions.Why is it different?
It's what goes on under the bonnet that makes it sexy (or at least we like to think so!). Your request is instantly matched to all the people we know who can help. So if you're looking for a catered chalet in Morzine for Xmas, all our Morzine catered chalet operators who still have availability for Xmas will be notified.If you're thinking sometime in January but not sure about dates and don't really mind where, the same thing happens – lots of notifications head out to our members who could fit the bill.
It's great for groups who want a luxury apartment all to themselves, or for a couple who want to meet others in a catered chalet. It can work if you've maybe left it a little late but want to slip in a quick ski next week, or if you've been given the responsibility of organising the big ski trip for next Easter and don't know where to start.
Why not try it out?
The ski season buzz is very definitely getting underway – with Ski Shows around the corner, an autumn chill in the air, and snow in the Alps at altitude. So if you're thinking of looking for a ski holiday give the Solutions Room a go – it's already worked for thousands, so there's a good chance it could work for you.
And just in case you've forgotten, we thought we'd share some Christina Aguilera to get you toe-tapping and hip-swaying. Have a great weekend!
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Great Pre-Season Fitness Tips and Exercises
Pre-season fitness tips and exercises for better skiing by ski guru and elite instructor Mark Gear.
There
is no better physical training for skiing than skiing itself. The
majority of people who ski partake in the sport for 2-3 weeks per year.
So its probably safe to say that more enjoyment can be had by most
skiers, if they physically prepare for those precious days on the mountain.This
is not intended to be a set programme, but aims to provide insight for
how to train more specifically for skiing. To take your dry land ski
training more seriously, head down to your local gym and ask for help
from the professional staff to design a personal programme. This really
can do wonders for your skiing. It's best to be in good physical shape
before starting a strength training programme. Check with your doctor
before starting a physical fitness programme.Programme duration
Any
exercise you can do before your ski trip will certainly help. However,
an 8 – 10 week ski specific programme of 3-4 training sessions per week
can help dramatically. Starting with strength training and ending with
plyometric training. This will help prevent your legs from burning
half way down the slopes and reduces the risk of injury. More about
Plyometric training later.Cross training
Cross
training through different sports is a great way to improve general
fitness for skiing and will help most recreational skiers. Any sport
that involves moving the legs and getting the heart and lungs working is
a good place to start. Running, jogging, cycling, swimming and tennis
are great sports to prepare yourself for the coming season.Flexibility
Flexibility
is an important part of training for any sport and can help reduce the
risk of injury. It is important to take the time to stretch straight
after each training session, whilst the muscles are still warm.Skiing specific training
This
kind of training includes initially strength training with weights and
secondly plyometric training. Once strength has been increased,
plyometric training can later be used to improve speed, agility and
power. Ski specific training, as the name implies, aims to target the
muscle groups used in skiing and to use them in a similar way to skiing.Some skiing specific strength training exercises
The
following exercises not only increase strength, but also balance skills
which are important for skiing. The exercises should be performed in
repetitions and sets. Again it's best to ask a fitness trainer for help
at your local gym to design a personalised programme.Free weight squats
Free
weight squats (no machine), for improving whole body strength and
balance. This exercise really targets the legs and core which are
important muscle groups to strengthen for higher performance skiing. It
is important to perform squats with the correct technique. Care should be taken as poorly performed squats can cause injury.
Some useful tips for free weight squats
- Warm up first with low weight or no weight.
- Use someone to spot you.
- Face a mirror to check your technique
- Keep your back straight and parallel to your lower legs through each squatting movement
- Keep your head up and look forwards with eyes open.
- Keep your chest pushed out in front.
- Keep your feet in a comfortable symmetrical stance.
- Keep your feet flat on the floor through each squat.
The Lunge
The
lunge also targets the major muscle groups used in skiing. Precaution
should be used to ensure correct technique. The emphasis should be on
quality, balanced and smooth lunges without too much weight.
Some useful tips for lunges
- Warm up first without much weight.
- Use someone to spot you when lifting more weight.
- Stand with one foot forward, the other back.
- Both feet should be facing straight forward.
- Be sure your front knee is over your front ankle.
- Lower your back knee almost to the floor, and rise up again.
- Concentrate on squeezing to push yourself up, keep the abdominals tight and the lower back in a neutral position.
- Maintain the body in an upright position with a straight back to avoid leaning forward.
One leg squats
One
leg squats can be more difficult to perform as balancing is more
challenging. It's best again to start with low weight. When
comfortable with the technique, weight can be held in each hand or on a
bar held behind the neck. Try placing a cushion under the front foot to
really target your balancing skills. This helps to strengthen the
little muscles used for balance in the legs and core.
Some useful tips for one leg squats
- Use someone to spot you when lifting more weight.
- Stand with one foot forward, the other placed behind on a bench
- Keep your back straight
- ensure your front knee does not pass in front of your toes
Plyometric training
Plyometric
training involves high-intensity, explosive muscular contractions that
encourage the stretch reflex (stretching the muscle before contraction
so that it contracts with greater force). Sounds complex although most
plyometric exercises are simple. The most common plyometric exercises
include hops, jumping and bounding movements. This type of training is
typically done after a strength training programme. Plyometric exercises
can enhance agility, speed and power which are important components of
higher performance skiing.
A skiing specific plyometric exercise
Lateral jumps
Lateral
jumping simulates many movements that are used in skiing. Bending and
stretching of the legs with agile lateral movement, including flexing of
the ankles, knees and hips. Aim to keep good control and balance,
landing and taking off with both feet.Control leg symmetry in lateral jumps. Aim
to keep your knees and feet the same distance apart. This is an ideal
stance for skiing. Developing this kind of control can really help build
stability and symmetry into your skiing stance.
By Mark Gear Head ski coach at All Mountain Performance Chamonix.
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Top Ski & Snowboard fitness tips
Ok we know it’s midsummer – but it’s never too early to be thinking about working out for optimum ski fitness! Besides the European glaciers will be opening very soon – (Tignes this weekend) – and with the wet and cool spring the Alps has been experiencing, conditions could be great!
So with that in mind – and just because we like the retro gym gear – we thought we’d post this cool little vid from YouTube with some core fitness tips! Hope you like it!
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To Buy or Not To Buy – Top Tips for what Snow Gear to buy When
Steve Pangli of Powder N Shine compares and contrasts the merits of buying your own ski equipment.As the spring/summer sun threatens to break through the long-standing cloud and rain, sales are bound to hit specialist ski and winter sports shops, prompting many to consider buying last season’s lower-priced kit and equipment. Here I give my opinion on what to buy for next year’s ski trip. Firstly, I will highlight the pieces of equipment/skiwear that I believe are essential to own yourself – and the order in which I would recommend building up your kit collection: (More info on pricing etc can be found on a previous blog entry at http://www.powdernshine.com/essential-equipment-for-a-first-time-skier/786/)
Ski pants/jacket (buy):
This is mostly from a fashion/recognisability point of view, and many perennial skiers/snowboarders like to change their basic look as often as possible (maybe by having a couple of outfits at once), but for a beginner on the slopes, it is important to feel comfortable and happy with your “look”. It is possible, of course, to borrow these items of apparel, but with shops like TK Maxx widely available and selling well-priced items of clothing, you can kit yourself out reasonably cheaply.
Gloves (buy):
A very personal item of clothing – some people prefer standard gloves, others mittens which are often warmer – I would never want to share or borrow gloves from someone else. These are like a pair of comfortable shoes that to a certain degree mould to your hands. You can team warm, waterproof outer gloves with thin base-layer gloves (the more technical of which now come with a finger pad for use on touch-screen smartphones!) if you are prone to having cold hands.Thermal(s)/Base layer (buy):
Not an item you would want to share or borrow, these can be found quite reasonably in large sports shops.Helmet (rent first):
From this point on, my advice would be to rent initially, then to buy when you are sure you have something that fits, suits your style of riding and that you like. Most ski shops have a reasonable range of helmets that you can try out – either for your week’s skiing holiday, or just in the shop to ensure you find one that fits well. Initially most manufacturers tended to create more neutral colours such as silver, black and white, but these days you can almost match a helmet to any colour combination of your clothing.
Boots (rent for your first couple of holidays): The most important part of your larger outlay on equipment – more so for skiers than ‘boarders as ‘board boots tend to be more comfortable and slightly less crucial in overall performance. Hire boots are fine for learning the basics of snow sports, but once you are sure that you will return as often as possible, you should invest in a pair of boots. You can get great deals for boots online, though this can be risky and my strong advice if buying online would be to try the boots on in-store to make sure you get the right-fitting boots before considering an online purchase.
Certain manufacturers cater for particular shapes and sizes of feet – for example Atomic now have a (ski) boot specifically designed for wider feet (the Atomic B range), Dalbello, Head and Fischer also have a good selection for wider feet, whilst Lange, Scarpa and Solomon are known for typically making (ski) boots for narrower feet.Finally, for those buying ski boots, I would recommend considering buying specialist footbeds. Some boots these days come with a slightly mouldable in-sole in the boot itself, but boot-fitters such as Armando Podo in Les Menuires or Sole Boot Lab in Chamonix can build highly personalised footbeds that ensure your feet are held in the correct position, reducing injuries and ensuring most comfort.
Skis/Board (rent first, buy later):
And so to the holy grail for ski equipment junkies – the decks themselves. I hear countless hyperbole about whether you should buy your own skis/board, with the pro “you only need to use them 3 times for the costs to be covered versus renting” and the con “but technology changes so much that next year they’ll be out of date”.Quite honestly, I tend to agree with both, though I do congratulate the manufacturers on how much the general public seem to think technology evolves year on year. When deciding on whether or not to buy the skis or board, you should first examine the purpose of a potential investment – do you ski more than 2 or 3 weeks per year? Have you had bad experiences with the price/quality of equipment from hire shops in the past? Do you have a particular discipline that you would like to focus on that dictates that you will require certain equipment (off-piste/park/touring etc.)?
If any of the above apply (are you sure?!), you should try to find a shop that will let you test out equipment (for a small fee if you do not end up making the purchase) before making a final decision. Then you can let the sales people give you all the information about cambers, rockers, edges and flex (boards); rockers, shovels, twin tips and width underfoot (skis). The most important thing to consider if you are testing out equipment is whether or not you have enjoyed using that particular piece of kit. Many more people than would probably care to admit it buy stuff simply because it is new and/or they like the colour. Sure, what it looks like is important, but it should not cloud your judgement on ensuring the basic spec you are looking for (off- vs on-piste, freestyle vs classic style, more rigid vs more flexible).
My final word of advice would be to always try to push for a discount – shops have a bit of a degree of flex that they can show in pricing up equipment – you should always at least ask if they could go any lower – £20 or £30 can buy you a few drinks to wet the head of your flash new equipment!
Thanks for the advice Steve! Check out Powder N Shine's catered chalets in Les Menuires in France's legendary Three Valleys.
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Ski Fun – What’s on this Spring!
It's been piste to piste sunshine for at least a couple of weeks now across the Alps, although there was a healthy top up of snow earlier this week – as much as 80cms of fresh in some resorts! It means that conditions are excellent and as we head into the last few weeks of this winter season, now is as good a time as any to get out there.
If you haven't yet experienced the pleasures of spring skiing – there's definitely a lot to recommend it. Days are longer and sunnier and you'll find a far more relaxed frame of mind in resort. It's the time for leisurely lunches on sunny terraces, piste picnics and watching the world glide by. There's also quite a few fun goings on to add to the entertainment – live music, open air concerts, end of season races, and generally a party atmosphere around town.
Here's a few of the top parties going on over the next few weeks!Xtreme Verbier – 23-25 March: The coolest ski spectacle ever.
Verbier's Xtreme rounds off the Freeride World Tour and gathers together the top freeriders on the planet as they compete for the best lines down the infamous Becs des Rosses. Spectators can get a grandstand view from the Gentianes side of the mountain. The actual contest is scheduled for this Saturday 24th March and of course in true Verbier style there'll be lots of opportunities to get into the party mood before and after the main event. See the full programme here.Rock The Pistes (24-28 March) & Basscamp (2-6 April): Portes du Soleil/Morzine
The Portes du Soleil is gearing up for two big music events over the next few weeks.Firstly Rock The Pistes, which kicks off this Saturday, is a series of free daytime concerts taking place actually on the pistes throughout the Portes du Soleil ski area. The music continues after the lifts close with more free concerts in the various resorts.
This year's will be the second Rock The Piste. We love to see resorts making an effort – so if you're in the Portes Du Soleil for the event let us know what you think! Click here more information on what's on where.
Basscamp: Morzine's first electronic music and snowsports festival kicks off 5 days of music, mayhem and mountain madness on April 2nd. Morzine's bars and clubs will be hosting international DJ's, there'll be competitions galore and lots going on both on and off the mountain. The festival culminates in a massive Morzine Street Party in the town square – this year's theme is Back to the 80's. So if you're heading out that way be sure to pack some fancy dress items! See all the details here.
Basscamp-festival Morzine from basscamp-festival on Vimeo.
Altitude Comedy Festival – Mayrhofen, 26-31st March:
Altitude has moved from Meribel to Mayrhofen. It's a unique event and a great opportunity to see some of the best UK comedy stars and enjoy the glorious Zillertal ski area at the same time.This year's Altitude stars Jimmy Carr, Frankie Boyle, Tim Minchin, Ed Byrne, The Cuban Brothers, Rufus Hound and many more. Each day there are apres ski, evening and late night comedy shows. As well as the comedy there will of course be music and much fun with resident DJ's and on and off slope entertainment.
It's a great idea and where else would you get to see all those stars in the same place? Get all the details and the full line up here!
There's much more going on throughout the Alps too as resorts start to party. Spring is defintely the time for kicking back and enjoying life. If you've got news and information on what's happening in a ski resort near you let us know! Post on our Facebook page or send us an email at info@chaletsdirect.com.
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Prime Time Skiing – why learning to ski can be done at any age!
It's great to start skiing at an early age – and as families head to the slopes for the February half term weeks, it's clear that a lot of parents recognise that.However just because you didn't start young doesn't mean that you can't learn later in life. Don't let preconceptions about what you should or shouldn't be doing at a certain age stop you enjoying yourself – that's what we believe – and if you want to learn to ski in your 40's, 50's, 60's or later who's to stop you except yourself?
So with that in mind we asked Lynne Stainbrook, independent ski instructor based in France's Grand Massif, for his thought's on "senior skiing".
We're never too mature to increase our level of physical activity…
"It’s our prime time. We’re still very much alive and eager to ski, enjoying the mountains, the moment and ourselves. We have achieved significant success in business and our family lives. As we get older we understand our capabilities and limitations and set our own personal realistic goals. We don’t measure our personal worth by speed of descent, hang back recoveries or number of vertical metres logged. We appreciate the joy of blending gravity, snow condition, weather, equipment, physical condition and emotions.
We’re never too mature to increase our level of physical activity and quality of life. I personally recommend skiing as a lifetime activity to improve and maintain our quality of life."
Health benefits…
"Winter activities build coordination, strength and fitness while participating in a fun sport in fresh mountain air. There is always great camaraderie with like minded friends with whom we can make that special connection, on and off the piste.
If you are looking for the motivation to start skiing again, or just ski for the first time, let me help you count the reasons.
- Physical activity has multiple beneficial effects on the heart and blood vessels.
- Increased circulation transports antioxidants and nutrients to joints, muscles and bones, reducing stiffness, aches and pains.
- Enhanced circulation builds a more robust immune system, increasing heart muscle mass and elasticity. The upside is fewer colds and flu, less heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and lower back problems.
- Skiing is an exercise you can do at and through an advanced age, especially if you suffer from nagging health problems.
- When you ski, your body releases endorphins that make you feel good, relieving stress, giving you a natural energy boost. Each day you will be able to add a few extra runs, giving you better focus and coordination, both physically and mentally.
![Flaine09-10(240)[640x480]](https://i0.wp.com/skiblog.chaletsdirect.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mt_imported_image_1757430549.jpg "Flaine09-10(240)[640x480]")
Skiing can do all the following: improve your overall fitness, create a positive emotional state, lower stress levels, reduce pain, increase flexibility and help you sleep soundlySo seniors; get active, ski for life, recreation and everyday better health. Get out of the armchair and onto the chairlift."
So whether you're 6 or 60, learning to ski is great activity to get into and with so many benefits what's not to like!
If you're a non-skiing "senior" who is eager to learn or refresh your skills, take a look at Lynne's ski clinics. With over 40 years of experience he can produce a programme specifically tailored to your needs and objectives. You might not want to be the fastest down the mountain but you could certainly develop the skills and confidence to enjoy it, whatever your age!
For more information on Lynne Stainbrook and his ski philosophy, and to book a clinic, take a look at: www.flaineskiclinic.com
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That was the month that was…..
So January has given way to February and the ski season is set to be one of the best ever! Whilst the snow came late – the first weekend in December was when most resorts in Europe saw their first big snowfalls – it came in abundance. Following a white Christmas and New Year, January provided massive snowstorms – including the big "snowmageddon" storm which trapped holidaymakers in Zermatt for a few days whilst roads were cleared and avalanche risk was at the maximum 5.
More snow during the month now means that resorts are boasting record snowfalls for this time of year. The Paradiski area were quick to point out in a recent press release that they have recorded the most January snow in the area since 1966 – and they're not the only ones!
February is starting with a very cold spell as Arctic air covers most of Europe. If you're heading out to the mountains this weekend make sure you have those thermal baselayers packed – and don't forget snoods, mitts, face masks even. Temperatures in most alpine resorts are going to plummet to around minus 20 at most and with wind chill it won't be unusual to have -35/-40 at the top.
At the moment the forecasts are not showing anymore snow on the horizon – at these temperatures it's probably too cold to snow! However the cold temperatures will keep the snow in excellent condition.
With snow depths over the 3 metre mark in most places – which for January is a fantastic amount – winter 2011-12 is shaping up to be tremendous – something we're all happy about, especially after Europe's drought of last year. So if you've not yet booked your ski or snowboard trip then get out there and enjoy it!
A very cold, but beautiful morning in the Alps – taken this morning in Flaine as the sun starts to come over the mountain and cut through the wispy early morning clouds.
![Flaine09-10(240)[640x480]](https://i0.wp.com/skiblog.chaletsdirect.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mt_imported_image_1757430552.jpg "Flaine09-10(240)[640x480]")
