Accessories For Skiers

Now that you've purchased all the necessary ski equipment you need, you can then enhance your skiing experience with some of the numerous ski accessories available today. Some of these items are essential for the skier who ventures off the beaten path. Following are just some of the accessories that would make great gifts for the skiers on your list.

Watches

Although the average skier rarely needs some of the more specialized accessories, like compasses and GPS systems, a good ski watch is a necessity. The numerous advanced models available have almost everything a skier needs for navigation and training. However, a basic model watch is quite useful for not only telling the time, but also in keeping track of your timings.

Ski watches, similar to other sports watches, have a built-in stopwatch and timer. Especially useful for racers, the timer lets you see how your training is progressing. Ski watch features may also include altitude meters, heart rate monitors, and rate of descent functions. It's important that your ski watch is shock resistant and waterproof.

GPS Devices

Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, extremely essential for anyone who does backcountry skiing, provide precise positioning anywhere in the world and are useful for navigation as well as rescue operations. GPS devices may also include an altimeter and an electronic compass. Usually hand-held units, some models include map data that eliminates the need for paper maps, and some even have memory logs that can be downloaded to a computer for storage and analysis.

Compasses

Not all skiers need the features of a GPS device, especially those who stay close to home. However, a handheld compass can come in mighty handy even in familiar territory. They are essential during storm conditions because driving snow will prevent you from orienting yourself visually. There is a wide range of compass styles. Some are just a simple liquid filled device that will fit inside your pocket, and others are sophisticated electronic instruments that have a number of functions besides pointing north. Make sure you get a compass that is designed for cold-weather use.

First Aid Kits

Because mountain skiing is a dangerous sport, it's very important to be prepared with a first aid kit. However, it's not necessary to carry a bulky kit with you as they come in many different configurations. A basic first aid kit should include antibiotic ointment, bandages, and pads for blisters. More comprehensive kits should include inflatable splints, heat generators and flares.

Ski Tuning Kits

It is essential to keep your skis properly tuned if you want to get the most enjoyment out of your runs. It can be expensive to leave the tuning to a pro shop, and there are fewer options than if you learn to do it yourself. A ski tuning kit has all the tools needed for keeping your skis in great condition. A basic kit allows you to sharpen the edges and also removes burrs that slow down your skis. More advanced kits have materials for refinishing the bases and polishing the edges. If you have a good quality kit, you can keep your skis in like-new condition, just like experts at the pro shop.

Waxing Kits

In order to match the current ski conditions, you will need to wax the bottom of your skis. Crud, packed trails and powder have different characteristics and wax can help you get the best performance from your skis in any of these conditions. Waxing kits have a variety of waxes for different conditions and may also include a waxing iron for better application.

You will also need to acquire a wax removal tool to take off old layers of wax before you apply a new coat. There are many different waxes available. Some of the modern polymer waxes, easy to apply, can be used in combinations to provide a customized feel to your skis. Since skiers use a lot of wax each season, it makes a great gift for that ski enthusiast on your list.