stuehler

Well, I’ve finally tried snowboarding this weekend at Stratton, VT. A few thoughts that might be helpful for other first timers…

After the first day, I was REALLY tired and sore. REEAAALLLY tired. Because the second day was so beautiful, and the conditions great, I tried again. However, after day 2, I was finished. So, if you’re planning a longer trip, you may want to have backup plans in case your spirit is writing checks your body can’t cash. And, I’d probably plan to rent gear one day at a time…

Don’t skimp on good pants and good gloves. You spend most of the first day falling and getting back up. Had it not been for a great pair of gloves, my hands would have been finished.

Consider a helmet. It’s been about 5 years since I last skiied, and back then, no one wore a helmet. However, they now seem to be all the rage. So, if you’re inclined to be a little extra-safe, you won’t look like a dork…

I’m in pretty lousy shape, and I suffered for it. If you’ve got a big trip planned, it’s probably worth the effort doing a little pre-trip jogging and stretching or something. It takes a lot of engery andd flexibility to get back up after a dozen falls, and you’re frequently un/buckling your bindings

I’ll probably get yelled at for this, but I skipped the first day lesson – I rode with a few friends who were able to give me a few pointers. After a run or two, I had made enough progress to really enjoy myself. But if I were going by myself, or if expense wasn’t an issue, I probably would have sprang for a private lesson.

Bottom line – it was awesome. IMHO, the first day riding is much worse than the first day skiing, but thereafter, it’s WAY better. I can’t wait until my next trip

All,

I’ve always wanted to learn to snowboard, and this is the winter I’m going to try. I’ve got a few general questions…

Is it better to rent a snowboard at the mountain, rent it beforehand at a shop, or are you better off actually buying one (new or used) first (assuming I’ve made the committment in advance to stick with it…)

Can anyone recommend a good place to try it out, as close as possible to Boston, MA?

Would you recommend trying it once or twice on your own, or taking a lesson the first time out? I’m a self-taught mediocre skier without patience for lessons, although I’d do it if it’s foolhardy not to…

Many thanks in advance for your advice and insights!

Happy new year to all!