HOPEFULS PROGRAM GUIDE

EQUIPMENT

Boots

Boots must fit well and be flexible at the ankle for the best learning. Except for the smallest of sizes, a 3 or 4 buckle conventional design is best. Pick an appropriate junior boot, remembering the competition boots are designed for older, stronger and more experienced children. Boots that are too stiff or too high will hinder even the most talented skiers.

We recommend junior shaped skis that are both soft and of an appropriate length. For less experienced skiers, less than chin height is best. Skiers with more experience might choose skis that are about nose height. Only the strongest and most aggressive skiers will choose skis that are to the forehead. The disadvantage of skis that are too short is much less than the disadvantage of skis that are too long.

We know that ski equipment is expensive, but buying boots that are too big or skis that are too long is probably false economics. There are many families involved in our programs and there are many opportunities to move used equipment to others. Knowing this, it is wise to acquire boots and skis that fit well for the current season. Most shops have lease programs that are excellent programs for skiers of this age. The Killington Ski Club also conducts a "Ski Swap" during the October Columbus Day weekend.

Clothing

With clothing, "warm, dry, and functional" is far more important than "new and stylish." Bib snow-pants, puffy jackets, and mittens are good choices. For proper warmth, layering is important. Be sure your children have enough layers on underneath their outer layers. Stretch pants, thin jackets, and gloves are only for the spring season with this age group. Neck gaiters (warmers), goggles are a must and on the colder days a mask will be welcome.

We think helmets are a good idea and most hopefuls use them. They also are much warmer than hats. On race day we strongly discourage speed suits. They are cold and are probably a disadvantage and disservice to our children at this age.

Some of our best times on snow have been rainy days. With good waterproof clothing, the soft snow on rainy days is great fun, and we usually have the mountain to ourselves.

A warm and dry child on boots and skis that work will have much more fun and will learn much more quickly.