Don’t Stay Home: Precip Can Be Hip.
Credit: Tamsin Venn
For seniors who like to zig without the worry of another skier’s zag, one of the best times to hit uncrowded slopes is in the rain. Sometimes that is what these early season ski days bring us. It’s not exactly the bluebird day most of us hope for, but before you turn on the TV for a Netflix binge, consider these advantages.
- The temperature is above freezing and the snow is soft and pliable, even like spring corn skiing.
- Not only are the slopes close to empty, ditto the base lodge where you can find ample space and a good window view. Hang your wet stuff out to dry over several chairs.
- You have the dryers in the bathroom pretty much to yourself.
- It’s warm out, so although you may get damp, you don’t get cold.
- Ski outerwear is designed to combat the elements, rain included. However, if you have a GoreTex raincoat handy and possibly a sou’wester, not a bad idea. Bring a spare set of mittens or gloves, maybe two spares.
- Visibility sucks. Your goggles have huge droplets on them. But you’ve got few skiers to avoid, and your speed is curtailed by soft snow so clear vision is not critical. Bring a bandana to wipe off the goggles.
- Your bum gets wet sitting on the chairlift. Often the main information desk or cafeteria will give out garbage bags or plastic ponchos.
- Mountain weather is fickle. Wait five minutes and the rain may stop, allowing you a rain-free run. The views can be stunning with low level clouds and fog shrouds lifting off the mountains, like a moody Chinese water color.
- One item you should be aware of: Lift attendants may stay in their shacks so you may have to load yourself onto the chairlift, but at least there’s no waiting time.
- You can even sing along to your iPod in the rain, loudly, and few will hear you. No need to stay inside on those early season rainy days.
Does anyone have skiing-in-the-rain pictures or stories to share?
Editor Note: Skiers who are also sailors think rain is just another way to enjoy your sport. And remember the old expression, “There is no bad weather, just bad clothing.”
Actually, some of my worst memories are skiing in the rain. Rain vs. white-out conditions? Ok, rain wins out.
I have had some wonderful skiing in the rain! Last sunday at Killington i had the mountain to myself, it was warm, and my gore tex clothing kept me warm and dry. The only weak link has been waterproof gloves. I am thinking of trying some snowmakers gloves.