It doesn’t matter if you’re reading this months or hours before leaving for your ultimate day on the mountain. We know that too much time is spent working out what to pack and not to pack. What might the conditions calls for and what won’t be used? Here is some advice from the local ski and snowboard experts at Whistler Blackcomb that do this every day…
Upgrade your experience on the mountain
If you’re thinking to leave your gear at home in favor of renting new equipment then here is the bottom line. Renting guarantees you the newest equipment best suited to the challenging daily conditions. Need we say any more?
Yes your own boots are comfortable but our experts will find you something that gives your feet the same feeling. Plus they can recommend different equipment with new technology to try that is freshly tuned every day. By renting you are not limited to just one ski or snowboard for the whole mountain. This is a huge advantage when skiing different conditions and terrain across two mountains.
In addition to being better prepared you will travel lighter and save money on baggage. In the peak season rental shops are open until 9pm so there is plenty of time between the skiing and après. The White Glove Service can collect and drop your skis at your accommodation too if you prefer. We don’t think they’ll drop them at GLC and probably best not to anyway.
With an EpicDay pass you can skip the window every morning by reloading tickets online. Don’t forget you’re guaranteed the lowest price by reserving lift tickets in advance and you can save money on rental gear by planning ahead too.
Essential gear
The motto in skiing and snowboarding is to ‘get up and stay up’. You won’t be surprised to learn this is easily accomplished with a selection of items cleverly selected to help you tackle your ultimate day on the mountain. Whatever the conditions be ready for it this season at Whistler Blackcomb. Here’s what our mountain experts recommend for this upcoming winter season:
The best thing about this list? Everything can be picked up in the village if you’re reading this the night before your first day on the mountain.
The North Face Purist Jacket & Pants
This seasons Gore-Tex jacket and pants combo insulates heat and keeps wind and water on the outside. Tried and tested from the slopes to the deep back-country and guaranteed to stand up to the toughest winter storms in one of the largest winter playgrounds.
Available: The North Face store
Icebreaker Baselayer: Men’s 200 Oasis Deluxe Raglan LS Crewe Single Line Ski // Women’s 200 Oasis LS Crewe
Does maximum comfort, warmth and durability sound too good to be true? A new & improved fit that is warm, breathable and naturally odor resistant. The base layer is 100% natural merino for ultimate comfort.
Available: Can-Ski Blackcomb, Can-Ski Village, Can-Ski Performance, Can-Ski Creekside, Westin, Roundhouse, Essentially Blackcomb, Glacier Creek, Blackcomb Ski and Sport, Mountain Top Shop, Fairmont, Whistler Heli Ski
Icebreaker Socks: Women’s Ski+ Light OTC // Men’s Ski+ Light OTC
The socks with so many features they sound like a gadget. We’re talking seamless toe closure to reduce bulk and prevent blisters. Achilles support to keep them in place plus a sculptured cushion for maximum fit. They even added an anatomical toe box to create the unique left and right sock. All Icebreaker socks come with a life time guarantee which is great because you’re going to need two pairs of these.
Available: Can Ski Blackcomb, Can-Ski Village, Can-Ski Performance, Can-Ski Creekside, Westin, Hilton, Roundhouse Traders, Essentially Blackcomb, Blackcomb Ski and Sport, Mountain Top Shop, Glacier Creek, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Whistler Heli Ski
Go Pro 7
The latest Hero camera is hot off the production line. We’re not saying you need the latest model but when was the last time you upgraded your image stabilizing and video creating capabilities?
Available: Showcase, Provisioner, Essentially Blackcomb, Roundhouse Traders, Whistler Heli Ski, Summit, Can-Ski Creek, Blackcomb Ski and Sport
Salomon QST Ski Collection
Performance and stability anywhere on the mountain. The multi-award winning QST skis are super charged for 2018.
Available: Salomon Store
Salomon S/Lab Shift MNC Ski Binding
The touring efficiency of a pin (low-tech) binding combined with the performance of an alpine freeride binding. Push the boundaries on the mountain with the next generation of freeride capability.
Available: Salomon Store
Dakine Heli-Pro Backpack
Versatile and tested from the backcountry to the piste. Plenty of space for everything you will need on the mountain in all conditions.
Available: Showcase, Summit, Can-Ski Blackcomb, Can-Ski Village, Can-Ski Creekside, Westin, Roundhouse, Essentially Blackcomb, Mountain Top Shop, Glacier Creek, Fairmont, Blackcomb Ski and Sport, Summit
Anon Blitz Helmet
You only get one head, treat it right with style, durability and strength. This helmet has maximum warmth and active ventilation through stealth vents that give you control over airflow.
Available: Showcase
Burton Total Impact Shorts
Extra protection on the hill with added comfort and warmth thrown in too.
Available: Showcase
Airhole Facemask
Prevent icy winds and water from reaching your face for added comfort and warmth. These facemasks are as practical as they are trendy and this is a good reason they have become an essential piece of equipment.
Available: Showcase, Roundhouse Traders, Summit, Essentially Blackcomb, Mountain Top Shop
EpicMix App
Access current lift line wait times, view the vertical feet you have covered and find where you are on the resort map with the latest Whistler Blackcomb app.
Available: online anytime or download on the mountain with free Wi-Fi powered by Telus.
Reserve rental equipment and lift tickets online or by calling 1-800-766-0449.