first tracks: family
‘Gobbles’ and
A local mom shares her expert advice on keeping kids warm and dry
’Glubs’
Meteorologist and mom Jodi Saeland has mastered the art of dressing kids for the slopes. Each week, Saeland shares the trials and tribulations of raising her motley mountain crew, providing valuable information sure to help every parent on the Ski Utah Blog.
Follow these simple tips to keep kids comfortable in the cold.
BOOTS: The hardest part with little ones is getting them to try the boots on, and then…liking the boots. After all, ski boots are not the most comfortable footwear. Taking liners out of the boots and then sticking their feet in helps to dial in the right size without the struggle. You should be able to put a fi nger length behind the heel to get the right fi t.
OUTERWEAR: I prefer bib ski pants, as the snow doesn’t get up the back. We have all been there and it’s no fun. As for mittens versus “glubs,” choose whichever is most comfortable for your child. Be sure they have elastic to pull high on their sleeve.
HELMETS: It is so important to get a properly fi tting helmet. You can rent if you don’t have one, but do make sure you don’t leave the store without one. They help kids stay safe and warm. Most helmets do not require a hat to be layered underneath and the plastic of the helmet will help them stay dry and toasty.
GOBBLES: As my daughter always says, “You need gobbles!” It is not goggles, it is “gobbles.” Now, I’m sure many parents know what I’m talking about...when they say something sooo cute, you can’t
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correct them. You just smile and know they grow up so fast; to hear something like “gobbles” brings a huge smile and warms your heart.
SOCKS: NEVER wear cotton socks—they hold moisture. If you are on vacation and can’t get ski socks, dress socks can substitute, but ski socks are preferred. Polyester is OK, but cotton is the worst. Do not layer pairs of socks—it will only lead to blisters. A few new pairs of ski socks each season can make a world of difference in their attitude on the hill.
SKIS AND POLES: I often get asked, “Why no poles?” Well, it is better for children to learn and get their balance without them, so they won’t get dependant on poles to stop and get down the hill. (Hmmm, maybe that’s my problem?) When it comes to skis, height is not as big a deal as their weight. Whether you rent or buy, pop them on the scale. The advice of a well-trained shop professional will assist in fi nding the right ski (or board) for their size and ability level. Renting equipment can be a great deal for quickly growing little ones, but the ability to pass equipment down through the family can easily justify a purchase as well.
“ tips up!
Brennan knew he was destined to snowboard by age four. Fortunately, Burton makes
boards for tykes as young as three.
When my kids get
home from the preseason outfi tting ritual, the fi rst thing they do is throw their ski boots on and dream of the season to come. I recommend buying each child their own bag and teaching them to pack their equipment the night before.
—JODI SAELAND ”
For more expert advice, follow the Ski Utah Blog. Powderhound Matt and Cat, Jodi, Park Rat Tom and the Ski Utah Yeti provide real-time updates and advice on everything Utah has to explore.
Be sure to check out the Ski Utah Blog at
skiutah.com/blog.
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