Equipment

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 382-2037; Plaine's Bike, Ski & Snowboard on State St. in Schenectady 346-1433 .
Latham: High Adventure Ski, Board, & Patio on Rt. 7... 785-0501
Glenmont & Valatie: Steiners Sports, 427-2406

Clifton Park: Alpin Haus 371-2211
Amsterdam: Alpin Haus 882-9050
Saratoga: The Sports Page 792-1304

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 sternum 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.