The famous spring-predicting groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, did not see his shadow this February, which predicts an early spring. As the seasons change, so do conditions on the slopes.
It’s no wonder that the blend of (warmer) sunshine, soft snow, and longer days makes spring a much-anticipated season for many ski and snowboard enthusiasts. However, it comes with some challenges that everyone needs to be aware of and prepare for. I’ve compiled the following tips to make sure your late-season shredding is epic instead of an epic fail.
Proper equipment and wax. Skis and snowboards perform differently in spring conditions. As such, they need to be tuned and waxed differently as well. The cold, dry conditions during the regular season mean the snow tends to have lower water content. However, during spring, do you feel that sluggish tug beneath your feet that sometimes stops you in your tracks (literally)? To help your skis glide better over this saturated, wet snow, it’s best to apply a warm-weather wax. You can ask your local shop tech what is best for current conditions!
Predict the terrain. We know the consistency of the snow is changing with the warmer weather, which also means the terrain changes. If you plan to enjoy afternoon turns, keep an eye out for moguls or exposed ice patches. This is especially important if you ski on runs exposed to the sun that also have large shaded areas. The difference between sun-soaked and shade-covered snow can be extreme, so look, plan and adjust your skiing accordingly.
(Pro-tip: mornings typically offer firmer snow for the best conditions.)
Dress and protect for success. Layers, layers, layers! It’s common for temperatures to fluctuate up to 20 degrees or more throughout the day during late-season skiing. Make sure you have the proper layers that add warmth in the morning that you can take off later in the day. A timing habit I like to use is with each layer I take off, the more sunscreen I put on. A helmet and outer shell layer with vents can also help to get air to your body and keep you cool on warm days.
Embrace Après. Like everything else I’ve discussed in this blog, après is an essential part of spring skiing. I might be biased, but there is perhaps not much that is better than an adult beverage on a sunny deck after a day of spring shredding – don’t forget sunglasses and, yes, more sunscreen. It’s hard to top the sun, smiles and selfies to end the day (or season).
Follow these tips on your next spring ski or board day, and you’ll be prepared, safe, and stoked while you soak up the late-season snow!
