Top Ski Tips
Gliding down a mountain in Harbin through virgin powder with the sun glistening on surrounding snow covered peaks, all topped with a deep blue, clear sky, has got to be one of the most incredible feelings on earth... Here are a few tips for skiers of all levels to help you enjoy the sensation as much as I do in winter China!
The Basics
Gravity - This takes you from the top of the mountain to the bottom in the most direct route. This isn't always the safest or most desirable route so being able to steer and stop are key!!
Balance - snow is slippery! Trying to balance whilst sliding down a mountain isn't easy! You need a stance that is comfortable but stable on the move.
Dress Code - Stay warm! It is best to check the weather forecast every morning before you get dressed to make sure you keep warm and can see!
Sunglasses for the sun, goggles for the shade/cloud!
Don't wear a cotton under layer or you'll get cold! Have a thermal layer next to your skin.
Use layers of clothes, not big jumpers - it keeps you much warmer!
Only wear one pair of socks - more will actually make your feet colder!
Make sure your outside layer is waterproof - especially your bottom half!
Make sure you have lots of pocket space! You can take off layers when you get hot and carry extra ones in case the temperature drops...
Protect your skin - from the sun, wind and cold! Snow reflects the suns rays which is great for tanning but you don't feel its power so pack plenty of sun cream! Some sun cream also coats your skin in a protective layer which stops wind and cold burn too...
Run/trail colour coding - All pistes are given a colour code which reflects their difficulty! Green slopes are the easiest, then blue, red and blacks are the most difficult. Ski with care and don't dive in the deep end first thing in the morning or late afternoon!
Insurance - accidents can happen. Make you sure you get travel insurance that includes winter sports cover.
Skiing Safely in Harbin
Make clear that you are a ski beginner, junior skier, middle skier, senior skier or skimeister before you go to find a suitable ski resorts for yourself;
as well as a suit of equipemnt catering to your level.
1) Skis suit your ability;
2) Boots or socks keep your feet from freezing;
3) Gloves to protect your hands from ice cold;
4) Sun glasses against snow blindness;
5) Helmets are worn to avoid knocking down;
6) Clothing: Enough layer to keep warm, be waterproof and easy to move;
7) Safty lession should to be learned in advance.
8) Remember to keep your skin fit on extremely cold, wind and sunny days;
7) Learn to control yourself well firstly while skiing;
8) Check if your equipments work well;
9) Select the right trail according to your skiing level;
10) Keep some distance from other skiers, especially the guys after or before you;
11) Never stop at the middle or on the slope of the trail;
12) Avoid scarves, loose clothing and tie up long hair that may get caught in ski lifts;
13) Stop skiing before you feel too tired;
14) Keep yourself from injury while moving quickly; learn self-saving and call for help;
15) Be aware of the snow conditions and avalanche warnings.
16) Never ski alone too long and say meeting place with your companions;
Kind Note: If you are a professional skier, please choose Yabuli Ski Resort - the only one has ski trails in Harbin up to prefessional level.