Get ready now for Winter

Southern Oregon is a great place to be an outdoor enthusiast! We truly have four seasons for outdoor enjoyment, and each one is spectacular. Autumn this year was one of the most beautiful I’ve experienced in my 16 years here, and winter is knocking at the door. Predictions are that we’re going to have another stellar snow season.

With that in mind, it’s time to get your winter toys out of the closet, dust them off, and get them ready for an enjoyable season just ahead.

What to do?

• SKIS & BOOTS

Skis bases are porous and need to be waxed. Wax helps make them go fast, but it also keeps them healthy.  Think of it like putting moisturizer on your skin.

Downhill skis need to be sharpened; sharp edges make turning and stopping possible. That’s a good thing.

Bindings should be checked to make sure everything is in working order. You don’t want them coming off at the wrong time or, worse yet, not coming off at all.

Boots must still fit correctly. If they have a moldable liner, definitely get them fitted by a professional.  It makes all the difference in the world! Unhappy feet make for uncomfortable days on the slopes and a lot less fun. And blisters too!

• WATERPROOF GEAR

         Waterproof gear should be washed and re-treated often with a soap specifically designed for this type of gear. Early on, I made the mistake of thinking washing technical clothing less often would prolong the life and performance of the garment. The exact opposite is the case as long as washing is done correctly.

Traditional detergent leaves a residue on the garment that attracts water. If water no longer beads on the surface fabric, the garment may still be waterproof but no longer breathable. This leads to tons of condensation on the inside, leading people to think they have a leak.