Shop talk.

If ski shops were on the ball, they'd realize the tremendous purchasing power that women skiers have -- and they'd try to take advantage of it.

One smart retailer did just that. A friend in Michigan reports that her local ski shop, Brick Wheels in Traverse City, recently staged an evening event for women skiers called Wine, Women & Wax. The shop had more than fifteen representatives of the largest winter sports companies on hand to answer questions and show off their latest gear. There was food, entertainment, discounts, and door prizes. And to top it off, proceeds from a silent auction went to the city's Women's Resource Center.

This is a great idea on so many levels. It brings women into the shop in an environment in which they can feel comfortable and unintimidated; it's fun; and it establishes good feelings for the shop, which can translate into repeat business down the road. According to Brick Wheels, the event attracted 350 women and raised more than $3,600 for the women's center -- a winning situation for everyone.

It's good to see a retailer taking women skiers seriously. Kudos to Brick Wheels. I can't help believe that other retailers are missing the boat on this one.

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.

"Off The Grid" not on target.

Not for me, anyway.

Oh, I know I'm not the target audience. I think that's mostly 20 year old males. But like any ski-obsessed fool, I recently found myself among the crowd at the Lebanon Opera House in Lebanon, New Hampshire, sitting through countless commercials, waiting for the new Warren Miller movie to begin.

For a ski-starved audience -- the season hasn't really taken off in New England -- a Warren Miller movie is just what the doctor ordered. Everyone is so ready, so willing to appreciate anything ski-related that's up on the screen. I know I am.

And though it was fun, I just wish I liked it better. I mean, it really got me psyched for skiing (as if I need any more of that!). And I love to see the exotic locales (the segment on Kashmir was great). And though I respect the aerialists, after awhile it all looks the same (why would you want to ski off a 250 ft cliff? Yes, you read that right -- a 250 foot cliff. The same height as a 20 story building. Aside from skiing off the cliff, there's very little skiing involved. So what's the point?)

I know -- I sound like an old stick in the mud. But I do enjoy watching technically great skiing; the kind that makes me wish I could rewind the film so I could track what they're doing and learn something. And there was a considerable amount of that in the film. The skiing is truly outstanding. If I could ski anywhere near like the people in the film, I'd think I'd died and gone to heaven.

I'm sure I'll go see next year's Warren Miller movie, too. I'm a sucker for this sort of thing. I just wish "Off The Grid' was a little bit more on target -- at least for me.

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.

Giving thanks.

It's Thanksgiving week; time when we pause to give thanks, stuff ourselves with turkey, and start to engage in that great American tradition, Christmas shopping.

I have plenty of things to be thankful for that are ski-related. And if you think about it, I'm sure you do, too.

Here's my list:

* The cooler temperatures that are finally reaching us here in New England: At long last, the local ski area can start making snow. With any luck, I'll be able to take some turns next week.

* My season pass: Sure takes the sting out of paying for a lift pass, day by day. When you ski a lot, it's the only way to go.

• An injury-free ski year: So far, knock on wood. Definitely something to be thankful for.

• Mid-week skiing: I'm among one of the lucky ones who does all my skiing mid-week, when the crowds are down. I have a thing about crowds in general, so I'm thankful I have a schedule that allows me to avoid them. Actually, every day on the mountain is something to be thankful for. Beats anything else, far as I can see.

• A husband who understands my obsession with skiing: Even though he isn't as nuts about it as I am, he's still out there with me, and still supportive of all things skiing. He is absolutely the best!

* The great women on TheSkiDiva.com: I've gotten to know some amazing women skiers on that forum. Their posts blow me away on a daily basis. If you're a woman and want some great ski talk, make sure to visit and register so you can participate.

• Your kind attention in reading this blog: It's nice to have you here.

I have many many other things to be thankful for, too: friends, family, good health, and a happy home. For these, and many other things too numerous to name, I am truly blessed.

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.

So where do you find gear info?

There's a lot of ski equipment out there, most of it expensive. So before you plop down your hard-earned cash, do yourself a favor and do some research.

Here are some places to get some good gear info:

Internet Ski Discussion Forums such as TheSkiDiva.com or EpicSki.com. You can pick the brains (yech) of people who might already have the equipment you're interested in. Plus there are a lot of gear heads on these sites, so you're sure to get a lot of opinions.

Review web sites. RealSkiers.com is a good one; just note that this is a paid subscription service. However, it's a small investment to pay for getting the info you need to choose the right equipment. You might also try Ski-Review.com,

Ski magazines such as Ski and Skiing publish gear reviews each year, so check them out, too.

Of course, before you buy anything, the best thing you can do is demo, demo, demo to make sure the skis you choose are right for you. Because no matter how many gear reviews you read, no matter how many people you talk to, what it all comes down to is how it works for 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.

Apparently, all buyers are not created equal.

True stories from women over at TheSkiDiva.com:

I was really serious about buying a Metron, didn't know if I wanted the M11 or the B5. So I went to the ski shop to get demos. Good idea, right? The shop manager actually looked at me, tried to talk me into different skis (lower intermediate models), and said, "I could let you demo the Metrons, but you'd never be able to use them to their potential". Guess where I didn't buy my Metrons?

The employee of a store I frequent (mainly for accessories and because they have given me good deals on kids equipment with buy backs, etc.) basically told me I was skiing the wrong ski (Dynastar Exclusive Legend.) The conversation started when I mentioned that I noticed they didn't carry Dynastar in their store. He never asked me how often I ski or my level. He just looked at my size and said that my ski was too stiff for me and too long (152 cm.) Now, I used these skis last year in CO and loved them and had no trouble. Fortunately the manager of this store knows me and doesn't treat me this way or I might not patronize them for my twins junior equipment. Just because I am small and light doesn't mean I need intermediate level equipment!

Man, I hope there are some ski retailers are reading this blog. Women skiers have a lot of purchasing power, and clearly we've had some bad treatment buying equipment. It's time people in ski shops realized that they should make no assumptions regarding a woman skier's abilities. Any decent sales person knows that it takes real engagement to make a sale. Asking questions, treating the buyer with respect without regard to gender, appearance, color, race, religion, etc. (you get the picture), and listening to the customer is key. Treating a customer the way reported here is more than just insulting; it's also an easy way to lose a sale -- not just from the woman who's there, but from her friends and family, as well, now and in the future. All in all, not a good way to do business.

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.

Helmet Hair.

Yes, it's time I addressed the dreaded, the unspeakable:

Helmet Hair!!!!

See the helmet in my picture? It's there more than just to protect my skull. After I've worn it for a while, my hair's a disaster. Seriously, when I take off my helmet at lunch time, children actually cry! At the end of the day, I find it's in everyone's best interest -- mine and the people who see me -- if I wear a cap when I walk to the car.

Still, it beats the alternative. I'd rather have really bad hair than a really bad injury. It doesn't take a genius to see that a hard casing around your head is better protection against spending the rest of your days in a vegetative state -- or ending your days completely -- than a soft wooly hat. So looks take a back seat. I'm thinking long term here.

What I don't get are these guys -- particularly bald guys -- who wear no helmet or hat, even when it's freezing cold. What, are they afraid they'll mess up their hairdos? Give me a break.

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 for your own good.

Don't you hate that phrase? You know something awful is coming, like taking some wretched-tasting medicine or having to go on a diet. Still, there are a few things that would really be good for you to handle -- the first one has to be done today, and the next two before you hit the slopes:

If you're in the US, vote. You have nothing to complain about if you don't take part in the process. It's a privilege we all enjoy, so be sure to get out there today and make your ballot count.

Get your skis tuned up and your bindings checked. Don't even think about hitting the slopes if you haven't had your skis checked over and adjusted by someone who knows what they're doing. It's a matter of safety.

If you don't have a helmet, get one. Again, a matter of safety. I got mine a few years back after my daughter suffered a concussion snowboarding. I know it's not the greatest look, but it sure beats the alternative!

Now that wasn't too awful, was it? None of them are too difficult, and all can make a difference in your quality of life.

So what are you waiting for?

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.

A special day.

How many of you know women who used to ski and then gave it up, for one reason or another?

I'm sure many of you do. And I'm sure that many of these ex-skiers would take it up again, if they were only reminded of how much fun it can be. So here's an idea. We've all heard of "Take Your Daughter To Work Day." Well, how about staging our own "Take An Ex-Woman Skier To The Slopes Day"?

It doesn't have to be a particular day. Just when it's convenient for the parties involved. And it doesn't even have to be a full day. Could be half a day. Or an evening, if night skiing is available.

If cost is an issue, many ski areas have discount tickets available at ski shops, grocery stores, or municipal buildings. Some areas even have Ladies' Days during the week, with reduced rates.

The idea is to remind these ex-skiers how great skiing can be, so maybe they'll come back to a sport they once enjoyed.

It's a win-win situation. They'll have fun. You'll end up with a new female skiing buddy. And we'll all end up with more women on the slopes.

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 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.