Ski shopping.

I don't know what it is, but when it comes to buying ski equipment, some women leave the whole process to someone else.

Does this make sense? We, who're known as the greatest shoppers in the world; who wouldn't dream of buying clothes without trying them on (well, we might -- but we'd sure as heck take them back if they didn't fit!).

I know; it's incomprehensible.

All the same, I can't tell you how often men take over the job of selecting skis for their wives/girlfriends/daughters. And though I'm sure many of us appreciate some help -- picking out skis can be a daunting process, given the wide variety of brands and models -- the ultimate decision-maker should always be you. After all, you're the one who's going to have to use them. So you're the one who should be happy.

What it all comes down to is this:

First, evaluate your skiing ability before you make any decision. Be honest. You're not doing yourself any favors if you're a beginner and you end up with expert skis. Or vice versa.

Second, do some research. Talk to people -- your friends who ski, people in ski shops. Consult gear reviews. There are a lot of ways to collect information about equipment (the internet discussion forum for women skiers, TheSkiDivacom, comes to mind). So take advantage of them.

And third, be sure to try before you buy. Lots of mountains offer demo days where you can try out equipment from various manufacturers. Some ski shops rent demos, and apply the cost of rental to the purchase price, if you decide to buy.

The right skis are out there waiting for you. So go in peace. And have fun shopping.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

It's good to be a woman.

Here's why:

1. We got off the Titanic first.
2. We can scare male bosses with mysterious gynecological disorder excuses.
3. Taxis stop for us.
4. We don't look like a frog in a blender when dancing.
5. No fashion faux pas we make could ever rival the Speedo.
6. We don't have to pass gas to amuse ourselves.
7. If we forget to shave, no one has to know.
8. We can congratulate our teammate without ever touching her rear end.
9. We never have to reach down every so often to make sure our privates are still there.
10. We have the ability to dress ourselves.
11. We can talk to the opposite sex without having to picture them naked.
12. If we marry someone 20 years younger,we are aware that we will look like an idiot.
13. We will never regret piercing our ears
14. There are times when chocolate really can solve all your problems.
15. We can make comments about how silly men are in their presence because they aren't listening anyway.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

The buzz on women's skis.

At long last, ski manufacturers are beginning to take women skiers seriously. In recent years they've begun putting out some awesome women's skis. And as you can imagine, these are a big topic for discussion on TheSkiDiva.com, the internet discussion forum for women skiers.

Here are some of the skis that the ladies over there are buzzing about:

K2 Burnin' Luv, One Luv, and Lotta Luv

Volkl Attiva AC3

Dynastar Exclusive II

Nordica Olympia Speed

Atomic Balanze

Salomon Siam N10

Want to find out more? Visit the manufacturer's web sites for stats. And stop by TheSkiDiva.com for some great ski talk.

Ski for less (Part 2)

The money saving tips listed in my October 13 entry were a good start. So let's continue: here are some more ways you can save money skiing. Anyone have any others?

Get a job at the ski resort of your choice: You'll get paid and be able to ski for free. What could be better?

Buy ski gear at early season sales. Or get it used. This especially makes sense for kids who grow out of things in nothing flat.

Join a ski club. You can get great deals on lift tickets, as well as on trips to all sorts of terrific places. Some maintain houses in or near ski towns where you can stay for very little, too.

Look for lift ticket discounts at ski shops, fast food chains, and grocery stores. You'll be amazed who has deals. Keep your eyes open. They're everywhere.

Look for special offers at your favorite mountain. Some have discount days for state residents, ski clubs, women, college students, and so on. Check your mountain's web site for details.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

The difference between men's and women's skiing.

Found a very interesting article about the differences between men's and women's skiing:

Skimybest.com

Basically, the article discusses the physical, anatomical, cultural, and psychological differences that make men and women ski and learn to ski differently.

What it makes clear to me is that skiing is not a one-size-fits-all enterprise; that is, what works for one gender may not work for the other. There are critical differences that must be considered for each to have a happy and successful skiing experience.

I also thought it interesting that the author finds women more likely to take lessons than men. Could this stem from a greater willingness to ask for assistance (for instance, why won't men ever ask for directions, when they're lost?), or is it a lack of confidence, on the woman's part? Whatever it is, lessons are a fine idea for both men and women. Don't you agree?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Ski for less (Part 1).

No question about it -- skiing costs money. And with just getting to the slopes costing an arm and a leg these days, it makes sense to think about ways to cut expenses.

So here are a few ways to save. Most of them are pretty intuitive, but maybe there's something here you haven't considered:

Pack a lunch. Most of the food you get at ski resorts is expensive and let's face it, not especially good or healthy (you didn't really want that hog dog and fries, did you?). So bring your own, save money, and be good to your body.

Carpool. If you have a friend who likes to ski, sharing the cost of gas can be a big help. Plus you're keeping more cars off the road, which is better for the environment. (Remember, stop global warming!)

If you're on an overnight trip, don't stay slopeside. You can save a bundle by spending the night a few miles away. Granted, you'll have to drive a little, but you can save big.

Consider a season pass. If you ski alot, this can really pay off big time. My mid-week season pass pays for itself in just 5 visits. It's a terrific investment.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Ski season is coming!

I know it is (in Vermont), for a few reasons:

We had a hard frost the other night;

Overnight temps are dipping into the 30s;

I picked up my season pass yesterday;

The new Warren Miller movie is making the rounds;

The ski areas are holding their annual job fairs;

The forecast is for snow showers by week's end.

Not too much longer now.......

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Worst ski outfits.

I don't mean to dis anyone's style -- and the important thing, after all, is the skiing -- but there are certain ski outfits I just don't understand.

One piece ski suits: I mean, isn't making a pit stop sorta inconvenient?

Long, long mid-calf coats: Don't they interfere with your legs?

Furs: Aside from being politically incorrect, isn't there a time and place?

White jackets: Is that you or the snow up ahead?

Skiing with your hood up: Doesn't that interfere with peripheral vision?

No hat: Makes me cold just to see it (especially when it's bald men). But I guess that's just me.

Anyone have any additions?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Who do you ski with?

Me, I mostly ski with my husband, Jon. He's a great guy, a fine skier, and lots of fun to be with.

I'm lucky he likes to ski.

But sometimes even he has enough, and I end up heading off by myself. Sometimes I meet someone I know, sometimes I make a new friend, and sometimes I ski alone.

I don't mind skiing by myself. but I do enjoy company. I like to have someone to chat with on the way up, and to share the experience on the way down.

However, many women tell me they don't ski because they can't find someone to ski with and don't like skiing alone. Or they don't like skiing with their husbands or boyfriends, because they're bombarded with too much "helpful" advice when they just want to relax and have fun.

What about you?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Who's skiing?

Leisure Trends did a national survey on who's skiing, and I thought it was pretty interesting. Here’s a quick summary:

Increase in first-time skiers (3.4% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time riders (10% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time visitors to a resort (23%, a six year high — low was 16% in 2004).

Continual increase in 19 to 24-year-olds (18% - the highest figure in 11 years).

Continued decline in 30-34 year olds (8% - down from 14% in 1995. Trend shows gradual decline over 11 years).

All other age groups holding their percentages - no significant increases in 50+

Decline in married (46%, down from a high of 58%).

Decline in percent traveling with children under age of 16 (23% - lowest in 11 years).

Empty nesters also declining (9% - from 13% in 2000).

Percentage of season passholders (continues to increase to 30% of all ticket holders).

Influence of the season pass on where to ski/ride is very high at 21% - behind ease of getting to (37%); influence of friends (29%); and ahead of terrain variety (20%).

Ease of getting to the resort is at a record high level in influence of choosing a resort (37%).

Internet continues to grow as an influential source of information (11% up from an average of 9%-10%. Prior to 2000 was 7%-8%).

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Going up?

What do you like to do when you ride up the lift?

My dad used to sing to me -- which I found terribly embarrassing as a teenager, but remember quite fondly when I think about it today.

Sometimes I like to chat. It's always fun to meet new people. Plus you have the option of ending it naturally when you get off the lift. Or you can take a run with them and continue to talk on the way up again.

Mostly, I like to watch people ski. You see everything -- great skiers, awful skiers, weird behavior, fantastic wipeouts, relieving recoveries. And the outfits! Can someone tell me why it seems like some days everyone's wearing red, and other days, yellow? Just seems to work out that way.

I also like to evaluate trails and conditions and even plot a line down the hill. Good to know where you're going, before you even get there.

Sometimes I even sing. Just don't tell my dad.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Help make January "National Ski & Snowboard Month"

I know, I know -- for those of us who are obsessed with skiing, every month is "National Ski & Snowboard Month."

All the same, Ski Area Management (SAM) magazine is reporting that The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) and Snowsports Industries America (SIA) are lobbying Congress to seek a White House Proclamation declaring January "National Ski and Snowboard Month." The intent is to remind people to get outside exercise in winter.

Congressman Mark Udall (D-CO) has introduced House Resolution 979 asking for the proclamation, but the bill requires co-sponsors. You can help by contacting your Congressional representative and urge him or her to co-sign H. Res. 979.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Goals for '06-'07.

It's always good to have something to work toward. So here are my goals for the upcoming ski season:

Get through the season uninjured. An injury can put a damper on anyone's year. So I hope to escape unscathed (hope you do, too!).

Ski more days than last season. Got in 40 in '05-'06. Let's see if I can do better this year!

Try at least one new mountain. Always fun to mix it up a bit.

Improve my skiing technique, particularly on moguls. I'm okay on a certain type, but once they get too big, too steep, or too icy, I'm out of my depth.

Make lots of new ski friends.

Have fun! That shouldn't be hard.

What're your goals?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

This is for you, doll face.

As you all know, Barbie (yes, I'm talking about the doll here) has done it all: astronaut, doctor, rock star, fashion model -- you get the picture.

Now you can add ski manufacturer to the list (well, almost).

Mattel, Barbie's home company, is partnering with Elan to make skis for young girls, in pink (of course) with graphics of flowers and butterflies. Suggested retail price: $119. to $189.

As much as it makes me twinge, I bet my daughter would've LOVED these when she was little.

Hey, if it gets 'em skiing, I'm for it.

Wonder if Barbie's Ferrari has ski racks?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

In remembrance.

It's been five years since the horrible events of September 11, 2001.

For me, the time has gone by quickly. It's easy to feel that way, given the hectic schedules of our daily lives.

But think back -- on that terrible, terrible day, the world seemed to stop. The awful face of evil revealed itself, and all of us were stunned at its magnitude.

Today, take a moment to remember that even though evil exists, it is far outweighed by the goodness that's all around us. In the memory of those who died on that tragic day, do what you can to help spread this goodness. And above all, pray for peace.

Ski like a woman.

Thought I'd clue you in on this great web site I found:

SkiLikeAWoman.com

If you're interested in improving your skiing, this is definitely worth checking out. It's a directory of women's ski clinics, and even though it doesn't list every clinic everywhere, it could help you find the one that's right for you.

So when you're planning that trip for the coming winter, take some time and take a look. There might be a great clinic right where you're headed.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

It's Here: TheSkiDiva.com Forum!!!

Ta da!!!!

Yes, it's finally ready -- TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum devoted exclusively to women who ski.

Here you can post comments, ask questions, trade tips, vent, express opinions, and otherwise hold forth on anything and everything ski related. And you can do it with other women who care as passionately about skiing as you do.

Here's a taste of the forums that are currently awaiting your input:

General Skiing: Ski related discussions that don't fit under other, more specific headings.
Ski Gear: Questions, comments, and reviews about all types of ski gear.
Family Skiing: Skiing together as a family.
Resorts, Conditions & Travel: Questions and comments about resorts and snow conditions.
Trip Reports: Tell us about your ski trip.
Meet on the Hill: Arrange to meet up with another member of TheSkiDiva.com community.
Getting to know you: Tell us about yourself! We'd love to get to know you.
Health & Fitness: Staying healthy during ski season (and the rest of the year, too).
Off Season Sports: Hiking, biking,kayaking, tennis -- anything you do in the off season.
Random Humor: Jokes, funny links; we could all use a laugh.
Miscellaneous Discussions: Anything else you feel like discussing.

As you can see, there's something for everyone. You'll have to register to post in the forums, but it's fast, easy, and absolutely free.

And just so you know, TheSkiDiva.com is not affiliated with any ski resort, ski manufacturer, professional association, or other organization. It's just us chickens.

So even though you'll still be able to find me here in my blog, I'll be spending a lot of time over there, too. Be sure to visit!

A reqium for summer.

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial close of summer. And while I rejoice at the now forseeable approach of ski season, I am not, as some people claim, a "summer hater." There are lots of things I actually like about summer. Here are a few:

Warm temperatures: Believe it or not, I actually don't enjoy being cold. It's just that I love skiing so much that I'm willing to, shall we say, overlook it. It's nice not to go outside dressed in multiple layers.

The beach: As someone who grew up on the Jersey shore, the beach is in my blood. There's something almost visceral about it to me. When I go to the beach, I feel like I'm going home. For me, the ideal would be a home in the mountains and one on the beach. But unless I hit the lottery, that ain't going to happen!

Summer shoes: What woman doesn't love the toe-baring sandals you get to wear in the summer?

Cooking on the grill: My husband and I grill a lot in the summer. Food just tastes better. I miss that in the winter.

Summer veggies and fruit: Corn on the cob, peaches, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes. 'Nuff said.

Flowers: I'm a big fan of anything that blooms. Green is nice, too.

To all that, I bid a fond farewell. See you next year. Now when do we ski?

Reminder: Coming September 4 -- TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers (see August 2 blog entry entitled "Coming Attractions"). If you'd like to know when it's up and running, send me an email and I'll keep you posted!

"Know thyself."

That's a quote from Aristotle, And in skiing, it applies big time.

There's a thread over at Alpinezone.com where posters are listing their opinions of the steepest trails in the east. Some people look at this as a "to do" list. For me, that ain't necessarily the case.

I think I have a pretty good handle on my ability. And I don't think I need to prove myself to anyone.

This is probably generalizing, but it seems to me that one of the biggest differences between male and female skiers is the former's tendency to view skiing as a competition -- who can ski the best, the fastest; who can be the most extreme.

Most times, all it boils down to is who can talk the biggest talk.

Big talk can be impressive. But it can also lead to trouble. I've seen people who talk like they're the greatest skier since Jean Claude Killy end up in some pretty hairy situations, instead of admitting they're in over their heads.

As I've said in my previous posts, I'm all for accepting challenges. It'd be a pretty dull world if we didn't, and we'd all stay at the same level plateau. But I also think it's important to have a clear sense of your ability and to know what's right for you, instead of attempting something before you're ready.

Big talk doesn't make the skier -- only the skiing counts. And you can be the judge of that.

Reminder: Coming September 4 -- TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers (see August 2 blog entry entitled "Coming Attractions"). If you'd like to know when it's up and running, send me an email and I'll keep you posted!

Like the robins in spring.

Yep, one of the first signs of ski season is here: the September issue of Ski Magazine, where they review gear for the upcoming season. And even though I'm not in the market for new skis, it still gets my pulse going.

Not that I wouldn't love new equipment -- who wouldn't -- but I only have three seasons into my Head Monster i.M 70's; they're great skis, and I think they have a lot of life in them yet. I've vowed to keep them for three more.

I actually like them a lot. They're great on the hard pack (translation: ice) and crud we get in the east. Head ingrained Intellifibers into the core of the ski. As you turn, mechanical energy (vibrations) are converted to electrical energy, which is applied to these fibers to make them progressively stiffer. In a matter of microseconds, the ski senses and adapts to its surroundings, growing stiffer or softer torsionally as conditions and speed warrant. The ski comes with a binding, Tyrolia's LD 12, and an integrated plate system, Super Railflex, which allows the ski to flex unimpeded.

Still, it's hard not to be wowed by the latest and the greatest. I'm especially impressed by the many new women's skis that are on the market. Eventually, I'll have to give them a try.

Reminder: Coming September 4-- TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers (see August 2 blog entry entitled "Coming Attractions"). If you'd like to know when it's up and running, send me an email and I'll keep you posted!