Gear, Rentals & Packing
Rent vs own, equipment rentals, helmets, goggles, clothing, packing and equipment condition.
Renting vs owning ski equipment for a vacation
The choice depends on frequency of skiing, fit, storage, maintenance, airline baggage and the value of using familiar equipment.
How ski-equipment rentals work
Rental packages commonly include skis, boots and poles, with snowboards offered separately; helmets may be included or rented separately depending on the operator.
Ski and snowboard helmets: comparison points
Helmet fit, certification, condition and compatibility with goggles matter more than style.
Ski goggles and winter eyewear
Goggles vary in lens tint, ventilation, fit and compatibility with helmets.
Ski clothing and layering for Canadian conditions
A practical clothing system manages wind, snow, moisture and temperature changes without relying on one extremely heavy garment.
A practical ski-vacation packing list
Pack the pieces that are hard to replace at the destination first: identification, required travel documents, medication, essential clothing and reservation details.
Equipment condition before and during a ski trip
Owned gear should be inspected and professionally serviced when needed before travel rather than relying on last-minute fixes at the hill.