Why Seniors Still Ski
A celebration of senior skiers, including American deep powder legend, Junior Bounous describing his descent of Snowbird’s Pipeline when he was 80 years young (he’s about to turn 89). Why does he still do it?
Snowbird’s Pipeline Conquered By Junior Bounous at 80 (Taken March 8, 2014)
Snowbird’s Pipeline (the top to bottom ravine in center of picture) : One of North America’s toughest ski routes, descends from Twin peaks above Snowbird. First skied by Junior Bounous in the early 70s. He skied it again during his 80th year. Junior is an inspiration to senior skiers everywhere.
 
Skiing Super Heroes!!
Why not ski in costume?
Credit: Jon Weisberg
Spidey and Cap’n America, Skiing’s Super Heroes, about to save the day at the top of Snowbird tram. Senior Skiers, do you ski in costume? If you could choose one, what would it be?
Ski Boots for Seniors: The Apex Innovation
Hey there, Senior Skier: Time for a moment of honest reflection. While ski boots have come a long, long way from the old days, comfort-wise, they still suck, right?
But, what if ski boots didn’t hurt after three hours of riding hard pack? What if you could walk around the lodge or to your car in comfort, without the cadence of a hobbled horse? What if you could get the damn things on without wrestling, straining, tugging, and grunting? Well, you can. That’s the whole idea behind the Apex boot which promises comfort and performance without the feeling of having your feet in a clamp.
The Apex takes its inspiration from ski board riders, who can perform all day on the mountain and then dance to the music in their boots in the lodge. Basically, the Apex consists of two elements: a walkable support boot that promises a custom fit, and an external carbon-fiber frame—an exoskeleton, if you will—that can be tuned to different flexes. The boot locks into the frame, and the result, according to Apex, is the Holy Grail of precise edge control and comfort.
We learned of the Apex boot from Senior Skier Billy Kidd, who, at 70, is still very much on the hill. As the 1964 Olympics silver medalist said in an interview with CBS Denver, “At 20 years old, I didn’t care about comfort. I still need to have control, but the top priority for me now is comfort.” Now, we at SeniorsSkiing totally endorse Billy’s urgency for comfort; it’s a core philosophy around here. That’s why the Apex looks so interesting.
The innovative genius behind Apex is none other than Denny Hanson. In 1970, Denny and his brother Chris rocked ski industry traditionalists with what was then the revolutionary Hanson boot, the first rear-entry design that also featured comfort and easy to get into. The Hanson boot caught on with racers and freestylers, and what was once considered radical became accepted.
Here’s Denny showing off the Apex.
Couple of things. Apex boots aren’t cheap. On the other hand, reviewers are really effusive about praising the performance-comfort benefit. Also, dealers are spread out pretty thinly. Check the website for a dealer within a day’s drive. Or a short plane ride. Or head over to Apex Ski Boots.
Comments on Apex boots? Anyone? Anyone?
Remember this?
He isn’t falling. He’s demonstrating a ski technique from the 70s practiced by jet-setting ski racers. What is it called?
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Ten Indispensable Items Every Senior Skier Should Own
Age has its rewards. And you may have noticed the occasional downside.
For the senior skier, a few equipment decisions – some of them surprisingly simple and inexpensive, can improve your overall experience.
Here are ten. We’d welcome additional suggestions from you.
Lightweight, folding chair — The civilized way to get boots on and off. Avoid camping chairs that place you too close to the ground. Opt for a full size unit. If the parking lot is messy, use a plastic mat for protection.
For Parking Lot Booting Up
Small, flat plastic water bottle – It’s one of the most practical items. Wearable hydration systems may be good for backcountry, but overkill for resort skiing. Conventional bottles are bulky. Most camping outfitters carry 12 oz plastic bottles with a nozzle cap. Just a few dollars; fits flat in your parka pocket.
Fat rockers – Reverse camber skis with a soft tip are ideal for getting around most mountains. Unlike other designs they require less effort to turn and tend to float on powder and crud. Their energy efficiency adds hours to the day. The trick is in the reverse camber — you’re turning a much smaller portion of the ski than with other designs. Don’t take them out on boilerplate, and be patient if you need to negotiate long, flat connector trails, They’re not easy to skate.
Fat Rockers Have Captured The Imagination Of Powder Hounds
Glove liners –In addition to warmth, they protect hands when removing gloves. Wear them under a slightly overlarge glove or mitten. Easy to wash. The best cost about $20.
Plug-in boot warmers – Use them in the car on the way to the hill. They make it easier to get boots on and pre-warming is a nice way to start the day. Choose the style that works best with your car’s electrical system.
Custom boots – Pricey, but possibly the best ski investment you make. Custom foot beds. Custom foam liners. If you spend considerable time on the hill, you’ll understand.
Balaclava – Not the pastry, the snug-fitting head and face covering. On a cold day this adds comfort and takes away the sting. Opt for one with a poly— face section. Wash often. A great investment at around $25.
Accessories tote bag – One bag per skier for all small gear – goggles, powder cords, lip balm, gloves, warmers, etc. Choose one with a small zip pocket for your season’s pass(es). Under $50.
Prescription goggles – Glasses and skiing don’t mix. They fog. They break. A goggle that accommodates a prescription insert is a better alternative. Downsides: they tend to be pricey and may fog when you overheat. Contact lenses are a practical alternative.
Emergency Whistle – Most likely you’ll never need to use it, but a loud whistle is almost as good a cell phone if you get into trouble. Under $10.
Piercingly Loud When You Need To Attract Attention
Helmet – Some longtime skiers still rely on knitwear. Helmets are warm, comfortable and protective. Yes, if you hit a tree at 40 mph, nothing will protect. But for the occasional brush with a branch or a slower fall, helmet is the way to go. Make sure it fits properly. Most skiers are happy with air vents and removable ear pieces for warm Spring days.
Full Visor Helmet From Osbe
SweetTarts — Seriously, this roll candy helps overcome dry mouth in an instant.
Email your suggestions, please.