It’s ski season in Korea which means it’s time to hit the slopes and have some fun! If it’s your first time going skiing or snowboarding, you may think you need to bring all the clothing and heavy ski equipment, but there’s no need for that. There are only necessary things that you need to pack and wear for your ski trip to Korea!
Boots, skis and snowboards, helmets and such are all available for rent at the resorts! This checklist has got you covered to make sure you don’t forget anything!
1. Gloves
Gloves are an absolute essential for skiing. Forget about the thin knitted ones you find at most stores as they won’t be enough. You need thick, waterproof gloves for skiing or snowboarding.
Don’t even think about going glove-less as you’ll regret it the moment you step outside. Cold, frozen fingers will spoil a great day of fun.
2. Helmet
A ski helmet is very important for safety reasons, especially if you are a beginner who is likely to stumble and fall while learning. Make sure it’s probably fitted. The front part must sit two finger-widths above your eyebrows. If it sits too low, it will reduce your field of vision.
If it sits too high, it won’t protect you. You’ll know it fits you properly when you can’t touch your forehead!
3. Hat
If you absolutely must go without a helmet, then at least wear a thick, insulated beanie. So much body heat escapes from the head, so make sure you cover up and stay warm!
4. Ski Jacket
Ski jackets are absolutely essential in keeping you insulated on the slopes. There will be tons of different sizes and styles available at the resorts for rent. Since skiing involves moving your arms and legs a lot, it’s best to wear one that is the perfect fit. The waterproof material is a must since you’ll be falling a lot.
Make sure you choose one that hits the spot in terms of warmth, comfort, and style. Ones with zippers tend to be warmer than ones with buttons. Pockets are also handy as you can store essentials like your lift pass and goggles inside.
5. Ski Pants
When it comes to ski pants, the easiest way to check for comfort when renting them is to bend down and strike a pose like you are actually skiing or snowboarding and see if you feel any discomfort in the butt and knee area.
Zippered openings in the thigh areas allow sweat to escape and plastic guards at the hems mean that the pants won’t tear even if you were to scrape against corners.
Since you’ll probably be falling on your backside a lot, opt for one that’s one or two sizes larger so there’s enough space to wear a butt pad to cushion your fall. Make sure it’s waterproof, too!
6. Goggles
Goggles will protect your eyes from strong UV rays and ease the sharp glare of the sun’s reflection from the snow. They’ll also prevent snow from flying into your face and eyes.
Poor fitting goggles will press down on the nose or temples. You also want to make sure it’s not too tight so you can wear it over your helmet or beanie.
7. Skis
Personal height and weight will greatly impact the length of the ski you ride. For beginners, choosing a ski that is no taller than your chin when standing straight with the ski touching the floor is key. Shorter skis are more agile, responsive and easier to learn on. Unnecessarily long skis will slow down your learning curve and likely frustrate you as you learn new skills.
As for weight, lighter skis need less ski surface to stay afloat in the snow, so shorter skis may be better. Heavier skiers will need a relatively longer ski. The same rules apply for snowboards, too!
8. Ski boots
With ski boots, your toes should be touching the end of the boot, unlike normal shoes. Bend your knees and lean forward slightly (as if you’re in a skiing position). Your toes should move back towards the back of the foot. It’s okay if they’re still slightly touching the front of the boot, although only gently.
A comfortable boot should feel snug but not too tight. You need to be able to wiggle your toes while wearing them and not have any slippage around the heel.
9. Thermal Base Layer
You should never, ever go without a skin-tight long sleeve thermal. They’re available at most clothing stores and come in various fabrics. Add another layer on top along with a thin or thick sweater, depending on how cold it is. Layering is key!
Of course, things like hats and gloves are available at the rental shops, too, but only for purchase. They also tend to be pricey, so we highly recommend bringing your own!
Make sure you try everything on before renting to check if it fits and is comfortable on you. This is important during the peak season so you can prevent injuries from worn-out equipment.
Bonus: Here are some other essentials you may want to take with you!
1) Hot Packs: Warm up your cold face and hands!
*Spare underwear and socks: If you fall over, you don’t want to have a soggy butt for hours!
2) Sunscreen: Minimum of SPF 30 to prevent sun damage.
3) Lip balm: The first signs of dryness appear on the lips, so carry one around and reapply regularly throughout the day.
4) Snacks: Essential for keeping your energy levels up. Carry small snacks such as chocolate, cereal bars, and nuts for an extra kick when needed.
If you want to enjoy skiing but also want to be free of hassle? We got you covered! Many of the resorts rent out the necessary pieces of equipment for you so all you need to is enjoy!
- Oak Valley Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental or Oak Valley Ski Resort: Private Lesson + Lift Pass + Equipment Rental
- Vivaldi Park Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental or Vivaldi Park Ski Resort: Private Lesson + Lift Pass + Equipment Rental
- Yongpyong Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental or Yongpyong Ski Resort: Private Lesson + Lift Pass + Equipment Rental
- Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental
- Alpensia Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental or Alpensia Ski Resort: Private Lesson + Lift Pass + Equipment Rental
- Eden Valley Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental
- Jisan Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental
- Phoenix Park Ski Resort: Lift Pass & Equipment Rental
If you haven’t decided on a ski destination yet, check out these ski resorts in South Korea for some ideas! Check out more great ways to enjoy Winter in Korea on Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop!
Photo Credits:
“New This Season: Zipperback Kids Ski Gloves” By Mike Barlow
“Child winter boy hat scarf” By jufmdb0
“Ski helmet goggle gear” By Wokandapix
Naver Blog@nolleoga
Outdoor Gear Lab
“Sports goggles” By Peter Dutton
Skis Buying Guide
“Andrej Šporn at the 2010 Winter Olympic downhill” By Jon Wick
“Flexon ski boot evolution” By Robert Neubecker
“Chapstick lip balm” By Jorge Barrios
Yongpyong Ski Resort
