Snowboarding

[Brad]

For half decent clothing on a budget a TK Maxx is worth a look. I recommend impact shorts too; falling on your arse can easily break your coccyx.

[ETC]

I'm used to falling on my arse don't need snow for that thanks for the advice guys

[Duncan James Waugh]

Where would be a good place for a complete novice, well first timer I'm thinking about a birthday surprise for the missus any advice?

Passo Tonale in Italy is perfect for beginning snowboarding. It's Italy, so pretty cheap compared to other countries, and has several excellent blue runs with some nice, wide sections for borders. Good teaching school and Hotel Adamello is cheap while offering the best food in the resort, friendly family run place too. As others have said get your own helmet and absolutely get some wrist guards, seen people before snap their wrists on the first day or two and ruin their holiday.

[Brad]

Agree re: the wrist guards. I like to have them built in to the glove. Level's Half Pipe gloves come with the biomex guards that seem to work really well and are comfy.

[charlesr]

Remember to trim your toenails

[Brad]

Remember to trim your toenails

Schoolboy error. I lost my big toenail once through not doing this!

[charlesr]

A whole day of powder. Awesomeness. Got some new Scott aura goggles (review) that react to the light so work in all conditions. So good!

[Brad]

Jealous! Love those powder fields...

[charlesr]

Blizzards at the top today. Took it easy and only did 70kph...

[charlesr]

80kph. Level up.

[Brad]

Holy ****. Nice going

[charlesr]

I had a great lesson last time and reaped the benefits this time. Much more relaxed and upright on the toe edge (hips forward, massive ankle pressure for a good edge and low CoG, knees ready to absorb bumps). Still not carving as hard as I see some others, but much improved.

Grabbed a couple of hours yesterday morning before the transfer, but it was insane - the wind was whipping snow down the mountain and many lifts were shut. We struggled to even get off ski lifts because we were being blown back on to them. Along the flat, I could get up to massive speeds just by holding my arms out for maximum "sail". All good fun!

[charlesr]

Also, picked up some Scott goggles for me and Lucy - they have light sensitive lenses that worked in the blazing sun and the cloud.

[Brad]

[charlesr]

What a loon.