Top Ten Holiday Gift Ideas for skiers:
1 - Swix or Craft Universal Pants: these are the most popular nordic ski pants perfect for training and race warm-ups. They have full-length side zippers to get off easy over the boots. They have nylon fronts and microfiber backs for breathability. These are bomb-proof and last forever. Available at Adventure Cycle and Sole Sport. Swix pants: men or women's or junior size. Toko pants: men or women's
2 - Buff(s): these are the most popular head/face/neck accessory. Used from 40 to -40 degrees and configure into may shapes...depending on temps and atmospheric conditions. One is necessary, two are convenient. Available at Adventure Cycle and Sole Sport. Online Link Here
3 - Drink-belt: used for any sustained ski greater than one hour. Mandatory for any winter camp trips and can be prepared for critical re-fueling immediately after a race. Team recommendation is this style of drink belt LINK. Available at Adventure Cycle and Sole Sport. Online Link Here to numerous options
4 - Lobster gloves: half glove and half mitt, these are the best choice for comfortable skiing and racing in cold weather (20 degrees and below). Available at Adventure Cycle and Sole Sport. Online Link Here or a second option
5 - Socks, Socks, Socks: Never enough. I recommend Bridgedale due to longevity, price and availability. I also recommend Darn Tuff available at Yarnology. Mention you're on the high school ski team and you'll get a good discount! Online Link Here
6 - Ski Bag and Ties: protect your skis and poles. Keep them looking sharp. Available at Adventure Cycle. Online Link Here AND another Link Here
7 - Ski Boot Covers: great addition for skiing in the arctic cold of Minnesota and Wisconsin. These are also great for wearing during warm-ups to races and cool-downs. Definitely a luxury at first, but then a necessity after trying them. Only available online. "Yoko Boot Covers" are the best buy. Online Link Here
8 - LED Headlamp: this is only for the serious do-er at heart. Greatly enhances your ability to function in and after practice in the dark. The coaches make winter camps largely happen thanks to headlamps. Available at Sole Sport. Online Link Here
9 - Craft tops: this is the most popular base layer top for Nordic skiers. Varsity skiers will use these all the time. Available at Adventure Cycle and Sole Sport. Example of men's Craft top and example of Women's Craft top
10 - Ski Poles w/good strap: Swix CT5, Quantum 4 or 5 poles, with good strap is a great racing-level pole. When buying your own poles, always buy your skate poles first so they can be cut down to classic length if needed or replaced with an upgrade. Available at Adventure Cycle. Swix CT5 or Quantum 4 or Quantum 5