Before you embark on your ski vacation, you need to determine whether you want to purchase your ski gear, or opt for ski rentals in Ridgefield. Each option has its pros and cons, and the choice often comes down to what you feel most comfortable with personally and financially. Here is a guide to figuring out whether buying or renting ski gear from a ski shop is the right choice for you.

Benefits of Ski Rentals

If you’re a beginning or intermediate skier, a ski rental is the best choice for you. When you rent ski gear, you spend less money for newer and better equipment. You also can try out different brands and types of ski gear to figure out which one you like best. Because skis are available in different lengths, you’ll need to actually ski on different skis to determine which length works best for your skill level. You can also upgrade your ski rental every year as you become a more skillful skier.

Benefits of Purchasing Ski Gear at a Ski Shop

There are certain situations in which you should purchase ski gear at a ski shop. For instance, it is much better to purchase ski boots than rent them. If your boots are too small or uncomfortable, you risk injury, and won’t feel like skiing at all. Ski boots are durable and have a long lifespan, so purchasing a high quality pair is a worthwhile investment. You can also take your ski boots back to the ski shop for adjustments as needed. Many people find that they would also rather buy ski goggles and a ski helmet than purchase them.

How to Choose the Best Option for You

High quality ski gear lasts for about 10 weeks of use, so if you’re not going to go skiing often enough to justify the purchase, you’re better off saving your money and choosing ski rentals. If you ski often, or would feel safer using new equipment than renting ski gear, you should purchase gear from a ski shop.

When you begin looking for a ski jacket near Westport , you’ll quickly discover that you have hundreds of options to choose from. There are a few key qualities that you should look for in order to ensure that you find the best ski clothing for your needs. Here are some great tips for choosing the perfect ski jacket at a ski shop near you.

Understand What Types of Ski Jackets are Available

Ski jackets are available in five different major styles: shell, insulated, technical, softshell, and three-in-one. Shell ski jackets are incredibly popular due to their versatility. They are waterproof, breathable, and typically constructed to allow for layering underneath the jacket. Insulated jackets have a light outer shell and a thick layer of built-in insulation. If you’re skiing in very cold conditions, an insulated ski jacket is a must. Technical shell ski jackets are lightweight, breathable, and minimalistic. They rarely have extra features. Softshell ski jackets are made of soft, stretch fabric, and are less water resistant and have fewer features than hardshell jackets. Three-in-one jackets have an outer shell with a removable inner insulation.

Investigate Each Jacket’s Features

The features that each ski jacket offers will vary considerably from jacket to jacket. Common features include venting, pockets, a hood, a powder skirt, cuffs, waterproof zippers, and a lining. Some ski jackets have a RECCO reflector sewn into the jacket. A RECCO reflector works with the RECCO transponders used by ski resorts and search and rescue operations.

Determine What Fit You Want Your Ski Jacket to Have

Much like other ski clothing, ski jackets are available in several different fits. You want a jacket that is comfortable and flattering, but that also provides a wide range of motion. Trim fit ski jackets fit close to the body and are tighter and more restrictive than other styles. Athletic fit jackets are slightly wider and more flexible than trim fit, but are still relatively snug. Expedition fit and relaxed fit jackets provide better range of motion and allow more room for layering under the jacket.

Before you ski or snowboard, you should visit the ski shop to purchase a pair of ski goggles for yourself. Watch this video to learn more about how to choose which pair of ski or snowboard goggles near Westport would be best for you.

While you will need to decide which type of lens you want with your ski goggles—reflective, amber, and clear are the three main types—the thing you should be most concerned with when picking out a pair of goggles is how they fit. You want your goggles to fit comfortably after you walk out of the ski shop and put them on. Find a pair that you can wear with your helmet, and you will be ready to hit the slopes.

In order to make the most of your next ski or snowboard experience, you should visit a ski and snowboard shop to pick up the proper ski wear. Ski & Sport of Westport offers a wide range of unique ski and snowboard gear in Ridgefield, CT , and can outfit you for your trip.

When you ski or snowboard, you will need to wear ski jackets, ski pants, ski helmets, and ski goggles. We carry all of these items, and outside of providing our customers with functional ski wear, we also make sure they look good by providing them with fashionable clothing. We work with high-end apparel lines like Bogner, Kjus, Descente, and more to make sure you have access to stylish designs before you hit the slopes. When you come to Ski & Sport of Westport, we will show you the large selection of ski wear available at our ski and snowboard shop and help you pick out the perfect ski wear for you and your loved ones.

When you hit the slopes this winter, you need to bring more than just your skis or your snowboard. You also need to come equipped with the latest ski and snowboarding gear from Bogner. The right ski gear found near Ridgefield, will keep you warm when you’re skiing or snowboarding and help you look fashionable while you’re doing it. Check out some of the ski wear Bogner offers.

Ski Jackets

While all of the ski gear that you wear will ultimately be important, your ski jacket is going to be one of the first things that people notice. So why not invest in a high quality Bogner jacket that will wow other skiers and snowboarders? From the Bogner Fire + Ice collection to the Bogner Sport Ski jackets, there is no shortage of options from Bogner. You will love the look of their jackets.

Ski Pants

Traditionally, many skiers and snowboarders have turned to boring black ski pants when they step outside in the winter. Those days are over thanks to the colorful designs available from Bogner. Whether you want bright red ski pants, ski pants designed to look like denim jeans, or some other style, you will get the chance to make a statement with Bogner ski pants.

Layers

Anyone who skis or snowboards regularly will tell you that layers are essential when it comes to ski and snowboarding gear. For that reason, Bogner has created a full line of tops to serve as first and second layers. When you put them on, you will feel warm and stylish as you make your way out to the slopes.

Accessories

Once you have a complete ski wear outfit picked out, it’s time to accessorize . From ski gloves and mittens to knit hats and furry hoods, Bogner has the ski accessories you need to finish off your look. Bogner is all about making you feel your best when you ski or snowboard, and you will love the way their ski and snowboarding gear looks on you.

If you’re a newcomer to skiing, finding the right ski boot is often the most frustrating part of getting started with the sport. Part of the reason why is because ski boots don’t fit like any other footwear you’ve ever worn. Watch this video to learn more about the design and construction of ski boots and how to tell whether a pair of ski boots fits you properly.

How well your ski boots fit is an important part of your overall ski experience. Considering the effect that ski boots have on your comfort, safety, and performance on the slopes, be sure to visit a ski shop in Westport and let an expert show you how to adjust your boots for a better fit or recommend new boots that fit your feet perfectly. If you’re shopping for your first pair of ski boots, it’s best to work with a ski equipment expert to determine which boots are right based on the size and shape of your feet as well as your skill level and preferred terrain.

Before you ever tear it up on the mountain, you first need to get in your ski boots. Putting on ski boots is one of the most important steps in preparing for a run, as boots that are too loose or too tight can affect your performance, abilities, and even safety. This video demonstrates how to properly put on ski boots and adjust them for the best fit throughout the day.

If you’re still having trouble putting on your ski boots, it’s possible your boots are either too big or too small. To find out, visit a ski store in Westport . Perhaps your ski boots are the right size after all, in which case a ski equipment professional can show you how to clip-in for a day on the slopes.

Whether you are new to skiing and snowboarding or you’ve been hitting the slopes for years, it’s important to outfit yourself with the proper gear. You’ll need the right ski apparel as well as quality boots, goggles, a helmet, and skis or a snowboard. Snow sport fashion has changed a great deal over the years, as the wool and flannel ski trousers of the past have given way to technologically-advanced waterproof and breathable materials. Equipment has also evolved, with boots becoming more flexible and comfortable, offering you better control of your skis or snowboard. Take a look at this infographic from a ski store in Westport to learn more about the evolution of style in clothing and gear on the slopes. Please share with your friends and family, and start planning your next day on the slopes!

Ski boots can be uncomfortable and downright painful if they aren’t used properly. They can also cause discomfort as they become loose throughout the day. To maintain a good fit in your ski boots after multiple runs, place the power strap beneath the top buckle to hold the tongue against your shin, prevent shin bang, and keep each boot tight. Watch this video to learn more about other micro-adjustments you can make to maintain a good fit in your ski boots.

If your ski boots aren’t fitting properly, stop by a pro shop in Westport and browse for new boots that will keep you comfortable all season long. While you’re buying new boots, look for other ski equipment and ski gear that can enhance your runs down the mountain.

Even if you’re passionate about snowboarding, chances are you aren’t passionate about some of the more “mundane” tasks associated with board maintenance. The good news is you can visit a snowboard shop in Westport to have your board cleaned, serviced, repaired, and ready for the slopes. To get the best performance out of your snowboard this season, visit the shop and have your board tuned. How often your equipment needs tuning depends on your skill level and slope conditions. In general, have your board every 5-10 days you spend on the slopes.

Snowboard tuning will improve board control and ease of turning for a smoother and more confident ride. Regular tuning will also allow your ski pro to identify early signs of damage that would otherwise go unnoticed. While you’re board is being tuned, look around the shop for boots, bindings, goggles, and other equipment that can help you get the most out ski and snowboard season.