Get ready to shred

dave norona/for metro vancouver

Dave gets some early season secret Powder.

Are you ready for winter? Huge dumps of snow have been arriving high in the mountains throughout B.C. over the last few weeks, which is bringing a lot of excitement to winter sport enthusiasts. I personally can’t wait for the first fresh tracks so I get to shred on my skis and snowmobile. Here are some of the cool new things for winter and some things you can do now to make sure you have the best winter season to date.

Whatever type of winter activity you love, now is the time to get all your gear out from the back of the closet and get it ready for winter.

Your skis probably have a protective wax coating, which you put on at the end of last season and your snowshoes are probably all bundled together and covered in dust. Here are a few things you need to do before you head off.

If you cross-country ski, now is the time to gather all your equipment and do a once over. If you have no idea what to look for then take them down to Sigge’s Sport Villa on 4th Avenue near Arbutus (sigges.com). Sigge’s has been in the business since the early ’60s and they know everything there is to know about cross-country skiing. They can set up your skis to make sure your bases are flat and cover them with a fast glide wax ready for the trails. You can also check out some of the latest technologies in clothing and equipment and sign up for their Manning Park or Callighan Valley weekend ski trips.

If downhill skiing or snowboarding is more your speed then it is important that you get your equipment tuned up for the season as well. Stone grinding, base wax and a binding check and tune will ensure that your equipment will be dialed for the season. It is best to leave this up to a professional ski/snowboard technician who is trained to work on this equipment so it is prepped properly.

I always take my skis to the Crystal Glide in North Vancouver where my buddy and ski tech, Dave, grinds, polishes and waxes my skis to perfection. Whether you have a new pair or an older model, getting this service will ensure great performance from your skis or board all winter long. This service is not just for racers. A flat properly tuned edge will help beginner or intermediate skiers/boarders make better turns. Check them out at crystalglide.ca

Your snowshoes need less prep but it is important to get them out and do a once-over to ensure that all the rivets, decking and binding parts have no excessive wear or parts missing. Fixing them in the comfort of your home is much easier than discovering a big problem out in the snow when you’re miles from the chalet.

If you want to try any of these winter sports this year but don’t own equipment then renting is also an option. This enables you to experience the sport, try different equipment and save money. All three North Shore Ski hills offer great deals on rentals and programs designed for beginners to get you out on the slopes and having fun!

dave norona for metro vancouver

www.davenorona.com