Q. Are helmets required?
A. We do not require students to wear helmets. However, they are a safety
feature, and we recommend wearing them if you have them.
Q. What about goggles?
A. Goggles protect the eyes from wind and blowing snow; they also protect
the face from frostbite on very cold days, and shield the eyes from bright
sun.
Q. Where can I buy
or rent equipment?
A. Rental equipment is available at the Maple
Ski Ridge Rental Shop on a daily or half day basis.
It is also possible to lease equipment for the season at local area ski shops.
Q. What
ski shops have seasonal lease programs?
A. Scotia & Schenectady: Goldstock's
Sporting Goods on Freeman's Bridge Rd. in Scotia; Plaine's Bike,
Ski & Snowboard on State St. in Schenectady.
Latham: High Adventure Ski, Board, & Patio on Rt. 7;
Ski Market in Latham Farms.
Q. Do I need poles
for the beginner lessons?
A. Beginner lessons for ages 4 thru 12 will not be using poles. Teenagers
and adults in the beginner classes will use poles at the discretion of the
instructor.
Q. Does my child need
poles?
A. Children in beginner lessons will not use poles. Poles will be used in
intermediate and advanced lessons.
Q. How long should my
skis be?
A. Ski length depends entirely on the cut of the ski and the ability of the
skier. The more “shaped” the ski is, the shorter it needs to be.
Consult your sports shop salesperson.
Q. How long should my
poles be?
A. Turn them upside down on the floor, grasp the pole below the basket, and
your arms should be at right angles at the elbow.
Q. How long should my
child’s skis be?
A. Depending upon the shape of the ski and the ability of the skier, they
should be of a height anywhere between the elbow and the nose.
Q. Do I have to buy new
equipment?
A. No. There is good used equipment for sale at many ski shops. Play It Again
Sports on Rt. 7, Latham even has a "season's end buy back" program.
Q. Do shaped skis really
make a difference?
A. YES. They are easier to turn.
