Snow Deva

Foot Series 2

2011-03-28T09:48:00.002-04:00

This is the #2 of the Foot Series - it includes some important wrap-up work. I look forward to comments and questions!

Let me also take a second to thank my wonderful sister Kimm Viebrock who is not only the model but took the time to type up the handwritten notes I scrawled for her to follow :)

See ya on the Slopes!

Kjerstin Klein

Snow Deva

Foot Series 2 (Wrap-up)

Kneel on a blanket on the floor, manually re-positioning calf muscles outward and adjusting knees upward, then settle down into a sitting position between the legs, with feet pointing directly backward. Tops of the the feet will be on the floor. Have a rolled up blanket and/or yoga mat (or two) positioned lengthwise directly behind along with a yoga block positioned for a headrest.

Lie backward onto the blanket, using a yoga block for a headrest if needed, allowing the upper legs to stretch and the chest to open up.

Rest and assimilate all of the previous work in Savasana with a rolled up blanket supporting the knees and another rolled up blanket as a headrest.

Foot Series 1

2011-03-28T08:49:00.005-04:00

For those of you who have not been able to view the Foot Series 1 & 2 on the Winter Diva's Facebook page (most of the work is in #1 with a bit of wrap-up/finish work on #2) here is #1. #2 will be posted shortly as well.

This is work I have done with Sara Azarius from Yoga on Centre - she is a wonderful resource and is an amazing yoga instructor.

I presented an abbreviated version of this work at the final 2010-2011 Winter Diva's Wednesday. It is wonderful to treat your feet after having them in a pair of ski boots all day :)

Enjoy! Let me know if you have questions or comments.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin Klein

Snow Deva

Foot Series 1

Start by standing with feet together.

Re-position heels so that outside edges of feet are parallel.

Lift toes while pressing ball of the foot behind the big toe and also behind the small toes into the floor. Work at spreading all toes wide and lifting the arch from the bottom of the foot rather than from the top of the foot.

Widen stance to beyond shoulder width, keeping outside edges of feet parallel. Ankles will be bent to accommodate stance.

Rotate onto inside edges of feet to straighten ankle.

With ankle straightened, begin working to flatten outside of foot back toward the floor.

Keeping all other elements in place, lift the big toe.

Keep stretching toes outward while lifting big toe and lifting arch from beneath the foot.

Place a cushion on the floor and kneel on the cushion. Prior to

settling all the way to a sitting kneel, adjust the knees upward and

place a rolled up blanket or yoga mat as far into the bend of the knees as possible. Settle back into a sitting position as far as possible, using a yoga block for support where needed.

Repeat, moving the blanket/mat to mid-calf .

Repeat again, moving the blanket to where the calf muscle ends just above the ankle.

Hold onto a door for bracing and place the foot flat upon the door, bending knees and body as needed to make this possible.

Continuing to brace against the door, slide the foot slowly downward until the heel touches the floor.

Begin repositioning body to a vertical position close to the door, allowing heel to move outward.

Continue repositioning the body and the foot until foot is flat on the floor with only the toes still in vertical position against the door.

Begin toe traction by placing the weight of the heel of one foot onto the large toe of the other foot. Shift the body weight to the balls of both feet, allowing the back foot to raise the heel while keeping the big toe in place.

Bring the heel of the rear foot down and back while keeping the large toe in place with the weight of the front foot. As the rear foot is lowered, it will be stretched slightly with through that tension.

Sit on a chair with feet approximately a yoga block-width apart and loop a yoga strap around the big toes, bringing it snug. Slide the yoga block into place, keeping the feet parallel and introducing some tension at the toes.

Wrap or tie a yoga strap snugly around the ankles, then gently lower into a kneeling position on a cushion. Before settling, adjust knees upward then sit on heels with toes forward, flat on the floor.

Repeat with feet and toes pointing directly backward so that the tops of the feet are on the floor. Support body weight with hands as necessary.

Packed, Stacked and Jacked 2010-2011

2010-12-20T15:06:00.008-05:00

The Packed, Stacked and Jacked 2010-2011 season kicked off last night in the Goggle Bowl at Seven Springs. The Seven Springs Terrain Park Crew created an amazing set up for the event – and with the Goggle rockin’ the competitors put on quite a show.

Sponsored by Ride Snowboards and Line Skis this first event in the PSJ Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Series was set in a rail jam format with Amateur Ski, Amateur Snowboard, Amateur Women’s Ski and Amateur Women’s Snowboard as well as Open divisions for both ski and snowboard. This division format came as a direct result of the successful inaugural 2009-2010 season and will continue throughout the series.

Packed, Jacked and Stacked, brainchild of Willi’s Ski Shop owner Greg Klein, kicked off in January of 2010 with a 5 event series that gained national recognition and sponsorships to some of the areas great talent. “Our goal”, says Klein, “is to spotlight Seven Springs and the athletes that are coming out of this area. We want it to be a fun series that celebrates the fun and camaraderie of competing.” With that goal in mind Events Manager, Katy Rullo, has designed a competitive series with events that focus on the key ski and snowboard freestyle skills allowing everyone to show off their particular talent.

For the 2010-2011 season the PSJ series has been cut to 4 events and the prize structure has been altered. The competitive field has been split into an Amateur division for both men and women, ski and snowboard and an Open division in which the sponsored athletes must compete. This allows for more of the up-coming athletes to gain more than just competitive experience and throws and added level of excitement into the event.

Using the power of social media the PSJ event series, has developed a life of its own. The Packed, Stacked and Jacked Facebook page is a place where event coordinators, athletes, spectators and sponsors talk, share pictures, pass critical event information or just chat about life, the mountain and the series itself.

The 2010-2011 PSJ season-opening, Ride Snowboards and Line Skis rail jam was an incredible show. It brought some old favorites and some new faces together on an artisitically designed set up by the award winning Seven Springs Terrain Park Crew. Rail jams are fun, spectator-friendly events because there is so much going on all the time…very little waiting around. Goggle Bowl is the prefect place for such an event because people can watch from the lift, from the trail-side, from the Foggy Goggle bar and from the bottom of the venue. With the lights on and the music jamin’ the tricks look impressive and this crew gave the crowd plenty to cheer about. Results were tough to determine but in the end the Open Division winners for snowboard were 1st Tristan Sadler 2nd Cooper Thomas and 3rd Zack Yourd. For Ski 1st Tyler Pence 2nd Justin Petricko and 3rd Eric Taylor. The first place ski and snowboard winners walked away with $300 in cash from the Jib Shop thanks to vitaminwater, and the 2nd and 3rd place finishers walked away with goggles, t-shirts, hats etc. from Smith and some of the other PSJ sponsors. All of the Open division competitors are fighting for points collected through all four events that to determine the grand prize winner that includes a trip to Camp of Champions and $1,000 in spending money. These points are collected during each event based on the FIS point system and will be posted on the Packed, Stacked and Jacked Facebook page after each event.

The Amateur division was a new addition for the 2010-2011 PSJ to help bring more of a grassroots approach to the competition. Everyone likes to compete just for the sake of experience. Younger competitors understand that it is as much for the experience as it is for the fun of being a competitor rather than a spectator…but it is nice to know you have a chance at winning something – and thanks to our sponsors there are some fantastic things to win. At the end of the night the some great talent found the podium. For the men's Ameture Snowboard division it was 1st Chris Poe, 2nd Spencer Strayer and 3rd Trevor Eichelberger. In the men's Amateur Ski division, 1st Jimmy Leslie, 2nd Max Goldstein and 3rd Kyle Scheth. Places for the women’s Amateur Snowboard division were… 1st Ashley Vander Meer, 2nd Brooke Finney and 3rd Haley Milac; and for the women’s Amateur Ski division it was 1st Elle Pappas 2nd Alessa Conner 3rd Andrea Dinderman. Amateur division athletes are competing for sponsorship opportunities and other prizes…so they too can be Packed, Stacked and Jacked!

All in all it was an amazing event. While fewer snowboarders showed up to throw down more women came to this event – many of them new to the competitive scene. The youngest athlete of the night was only 8 years old but already an experienced competitor as she participated in PSJ last year and is a member of the local WPRC ski team registered with USSA as both a Freestyle and an Alpine competitor.

Packed, Jacked and Stacked brings out all levels of competitors so it is an easy way for anyone interested in freestyle skiing and snowboarding to get in the game. There are three more great events the Salomon Ski and Forum Snowboard Big Air Challenge on January 29th, the Burton and Armada Halfpipe Competition on February 20th and the vitaminwater, Camp of Champions Finals on March 4th – whether it is as a spectator or a competitor….you really should be there!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Warren Miller Brings His Wintervention to Pittsburgh

2010-11-03T12:34:00.006-04:00

With snow in the forecast for Saturday there is no better way for the snow-obsesed to kick off the winter then with a little Wintervention!

Wintervention is the 61^st film for industry icon Warren Miller. His films have a cult-like following because his films celebrate seasons past and set the stage for the season to come. This edition tackles the tough issues of snow-diction. Narrated by Olympic celebrity Jonny Moseley it features 26 athletes as they travel from Argentina to Antarctica chasing epic moments in terrain parks, on lift-access slopes and exotic descents in the far corners of the globe.

Catch Wintervention in Pittsburgh at the Carnegie Library Music Hall November 6th, 2010 at 7:00 pm.

Get to Know Your Reps: Terri Apple

2010-11-01T10:05:00.009-04:00

Terri Apple, a veteran rep for Nils Skiwear has been with the company for 28 years covering New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Terri took to the slopes early as an enthusiastic toddler and her growing passion lead her to race in college as well as a year well-spent ski bumming in Alta. Her life’s travels have taken her to the mountains from coast to coast and she has remained passionate about the outdoors in both her work and private life.

Her life in the ski industry started at age 16 when she began working in a ski shop. Her expertise and great work ethic took her to a buying position by age 21 which lead to her first sales rep position with Karhu-Titan shortly thereafter. Two years later, she partnered with Nils Skiwear where she is still an integral part of the sales team.

While Terri counts any day spent on the mountain in her amazing Nils togs she counts among her most memorable those blue bird days with fresh, dry powder in Sun Valley. She loves to be able to let the skis fly with big GS turns as a treat from the more confining east coast skiing.

Terri is one of those people you immediately like – and because of that she has made many friends throughout the industry. In fact her favorite thing about the ski industry is the people. From all of the buyers to the sales staff in the stores to most importantly, she says, the wonderful consumers that support their local ski shops and love the winter sports world like she does. She is full of funny stories about skiing over the years and the Willi’s crew but one of her favorite stories is a perfect example of the close friends she has made in the industry…as a young rep she claims she was “little intimidated” to travel to downtown Pittsburgh to a hockey specialty store, Willi’s owner and caretaker-to-all, Linda Klein, jumped in Terri’s van, went downtown with her and even took her dog for a walk while she called on the store!

Her home life is deeply affected by the ski industry not only because of her passion for the outdoors and her job with Nils but also because her charming husband of 31 years is also a veteran personality in the ski industry and together they are handing that passion down to their three children, one of which works in the industry as well.

While Terri can be found on both Facebook and Twitter she uses these primarily to communicate with her family. To follow what Terri is passionate about in her work life try following Nils Skiwear on Facebook.

Get to Know Your Reps: Pete Seminara

2010-10-27T13:26:00.009-04:00

Reps have near-celebrity status here in Pittsburgh and no one embodies that more than Peter Seminara, better known as Pizza Peter. His personality is as big as the brands he carries and he brings that vitality to skiers and snowboarders where ever they can be found.

This season he helped us kick off the season at the Willi’s Pre Season Ski and Snowboard Sale in the South Hills at Greentree Sportsplex by bringing his amazing, pizza-oven-on-wheels and making pizza for all of the sale customers.

Peter is the Spyder company representative for the Mid Atlantic region and has been in the business, helping Willi’s Ski Shop customers for years. He got his start in the industry by working on the sales floor at Ski Market in Buffalo in 1984 and has been passionate about the business ever since; He truly enjoys working in sales for an industry and lifestyle that he believes in.

Pizza Peter has enjoyed the industry from all angles. Whether it is Heli Skiing with the Last Frontier Guides in the Skeena Mountain Range in Northern BC or trying to talk the Willi’s Buyers into carrying snowboards at a time when only Boyce Park allowed snowboards on the hill, Peter has jumped in with enthusiasm and passion. As a rep he is one of the most committed individuals and the industry is lucky to have him.

When he’s not reliving his childhood through the eyes of his kids you can catch this fun-loving family man behind his newly-acquired Mobil Brick Pizza Oven spreading Pizza Love at Spyder promotional events or find him on Facebook (Peter Seminara) and Twitter (@TweeeterPeeeter).

Get to Know Your Reps

2010-10-27T09:59:00.004-04:00

As amazing as the ski and snowboard industry is it wouldn't work with out the hard work of the company representatives - the Reps.

Reps are more than just the sales people that shuffle orders for merchandise - they are an integral part of the industry, the key link between the shops and their customers and the vendors who manufacture the merchandise. Reps are critical because they are directly involved with the product as it is being sold and used so they hear from the consumer what works, what doesn't work as well as what consumers are truly looking for on the slopes. They work with the manufactures to help bring the best products to the market place while communicating with the shop owners and buyers to ensure that the right products and the right amount of product is available when it is needed. They are involved with the product from inception to fruition and work hard to balance the needs of all parties involved through the entire process.

It is hard for some people to believe how small the ski and snowboard industry really is and at times it seems cold (no pun intended :) and impersonal. It is my intention to help you get to know the industry reps that cover the Pittsburgh area to give you a bit of an insiders-look into the industry. I think it makes it more fun to have a personal connection to the products you use on the slopes and to put a name and face to the larger image of the companies that service the industry. Our Reps are some of the most interesting, hardest working people I know and great friends. I hope you enjoy Getting to Know Your Reps!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Snow Deva

Jungle Creek Trail: Dryland Training at its Best

2010-06-24T13:38:00.008-04:00

Winter is not the only time you will find us in the mountains. Summer months are an equally great time...we call it Dry land Training instead of skiing.

This past weekend found us in the Teanaway outside of Cle Elum in Washington. We were lucky enough to catch a break in the unseasonably cold weather and had a beautiful day on the Jungle Creek Trail.

As it was intended to be a short day we simply trekked up to the ridge line just past the Way Creek Trail junction and were rewarded with a through-the-pines view of the Stuarts, which are still snow-covered.

While the trail itself was not long it was varied in terrain. It was steep in places and made its way over the Jungle Creek several times, skirted past a bank side washout and scrabbled over scree patches so it provided plenty of opportunity for aerobic and proprioception training.

Not all training is physical - the wildflowers were in the early stages of their summer blooming cycle and provided an added dimension to the hike. Beautiful weather, wonderful views, dynamic trail and amazing wildflowers...this is dry land training at it's best!

Whether there is snow or not...See Ya on the Slopes!

Packed, Stacked and Jacked: Nordica, Monster, Gnu Wrap Up Event

2010-03-12T17:55:00.003-05:00

Well it appears Mother Nature still has a few tricks up her sleeve. The Mid Atlantic region is expected to have a "major, slow moving storm front" coming through this weekend which may affect our final PSJ event. This wrap-up event of the 5 event series is sponsored by Nordica, Monster Energy Drink and Gnu Snowboards and promises to be a nail biter to the end. Point totals that the competitors have collected throughout the series remain close and the weather only throws more excitement into the mix.

"At this point it's hard to say what's going to happen", says event host, Greg Klein, owner of Willi's Ski Shop and their on-line freestyle shop The Jib Shop. "We can only hope that Mother Nature will cooperate and help us pull off tomorrow's event", but contingency plans for how to reschedule are already being batted around.

"It's important to have a back up plan", says event coordinator Katy Rullo, "but if we have to reschedule there isn't one solution that will make everyone happy."

In the end it is up to the expert Seven Springs Terrain Park staff to make the call. They are the best judges of whether the event can be run safely and fairly - we should know by the time registration starts at 9:00 AM in the lobby outside of Willi's Ski Shop up at Seven Springs.

Until then See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin
Snow Deva

PA J IV Derby

2010-03-01T09:21:00.005-05:00

I'm taking a short break from unloading my car - trying to recuperate from an intense weekend of ski racing.

This past weekend was the PA State J4-J5 Derby at Ski Round Top and I was the lucky parent to accompany my son to the event.

We spent all day Thursday making sure that all the loads of gear were packed into the car. Helmet, check; shin guards, check; padded gloves, check; straight poles, bent poles, check, check; speed suit, check; skis and boots, check; On and on...thank goodness I have a good list or I'm sure we would have left without some important, necessary-can't race-without-it thing. Some how we were able to find it all, collect it all and get it all in the car.

We left at 6:00 AM Friday morning to make it to the training session that started at noon. The drive there was horrible as Western PA was in the midst of receiving another Snowlapalooza-like storm and we made it to Ski Round Top just at the stroke of noon - I bought him his ticket and threw him out on the slopes with the coaches while I got him registered for the weekend.

I hiked the hill rather than ski for the few short hours they were on the hill and was able to watch as the visiting coaches from Green Mountain Valley School, a race-specific academy in Vermont, looked on. My son looked nervous practicing in front of coaches from his father's alma mater but the snow was good and he seemed to relax the more he skied.

That night at the hotel I felt like a Sherpa as we lugged all the gear into the room, tuned skis in the stair well, went to the racer meeting and did homework at the small desk in the room. It wasn't all work, the mom's talked while the team swam in the pool before dinner and the kids played and had a good time before it was time to call it a night.

In the morning all the gear we'd hauled into the hotel had to be hauled back to the car - off to the mountain where all of that same gear had to be hauled into the lodge...get tickets, get race bib, get out on the hill. Then there is the race itself. As 'support staff' I want to be available to my racer without hovering - Heaven knows I don't want to be like the dreaded stage moms!

After the post-race debriefing it was time to haul all the stuff back to the car, back to the hotel, into the room, tune the skis, ready the gear for the next day and take a bit of a break before the festivities of the evening began.

I was thrilled to have the chance to meet some of the other Pennsylvania racers and their families. It was exciting to have a former US Ski Team coach speak about ski racing and how a racer moves up in the race scene - he even made is seem like an attainable goal. Fun as it all was though, I was acutely aware of the need to get my racer back to the hotel for the next day of racing.

Checking out of the hotel the next morning was easy since I was already used to loading and unloading the car several times a day. We headed to the mountain and went through the now familiar routine again - then I waited along the side of the race course with my cowbell app ready on my iphone.

We worked our way through the well choreographed day then ate pizza with the other racers as we waited for the final results, trophies and the announcement of the PA team that would move on to regionals. We already knew that my son would not be part of the regional team but wanted to cheer the other kids on and see things through to the end - it allows for an easier transition back to the 'real' world. When all of the awards were given out, all of the cheering was done, we hauled all of our gear back to the car one final time and drove the 4 1/2 hours home...ready to face the 6th grade, work and other aspects of home life once again.

Ski racing is not an easy sport. It is intense and challenging on the physical, mental and emotional level for all parties involved. I have to admit - playing the role of Sherpa/Mom has been a lot more rewarding after all of the Go Mom commercials during the Olympics. I'm not saying my kid will ever be Olympic-bound but when I see those snowflake-covered eyelashes and the big smile at the bottom of the hill I know he appreciates all it has taken to get him to where he is and for me it is worth every ounce of effort.

I'll see the rest of you Sherpa/Mom's on the slopes!

Kjerstin Klein
Snow Deva

Spending a Weekend at Seven Springs With Top PSIA Ski Instructor, Michael Rogan

2010-02-18T07:17:00.013-05:00

I am busy in the city wrapping up another week. I'm finding it hard to keep my mind on my ToDo list because I keep getting distracted by the piles of snow outside my window.

Snowlapalooza has been a blessing to those of us who ski or snowboard and I just can't wait to get up to Seven Springs this weekend. I'm excited to get on snow to work on the tips and techniques I received this past weekend from top PSIA ski instructor Michael Rogan.

I was in the lucky position to spend nearly the entire weekend with Rogan as Willi's hosted his Nordica sponsored trip here to Seven Springs. We were incredibly lucky, as I understand, because aparently Seven Springs was the only North American resort on Michael's schedule this season other than his home base, Heavenly Ski Resort - we really made the most of it.

It was Wintefest for Pittsburgh's local TV station WTAE, Seven Springs was buried in snow and it couldn't be a better time to showcase Rogan's on-snow talents.

Having arrived Thursday evening Rogan worked early on Friday with the Seven Springs Snowsport School. Iwan Fuchs, Seven Springs Snowsport School Director, was grateful he and his staff had the chance to work with Rogan - remember he is the Top Dog in their world :)

Seven Springs Snowsport school is already recognized as one of the greats in the East and adding on-snow training with Michael Rogan helps them to stand out just that much more. They felt the time spent with Michael was immensely helpful and they continued to learn from him as they shadowed the 'civilian' groups that worked with him on Friday afternoon and Saturday after he did a quick live spot on WTAE.

Rogan has a light air and good sense of humor. When asked if he prefered 'Mike' or 'Michael' he smiled as he answered, "If your asking, it's 'Michael', but not because I care - my mom does." At dinner Friday evening Michael talked about developing his passion for skiing in his early years at a local resort with his younger brother. In 1985 he turned that passion for skiing into a passion for teaching skiing. That passion was shining brightly when he worked with approximately 30 people, in 3 two-hour sessions. Each of the groups that went out with Rogan came back all smiles - many felt working with Michael gave them the critical breakthrough they'd been hoping for. Rogan is incredibly kind and personable with a gentle demenor that immediately puts people at ease. His great communication skills makes him incredibly easy to understand and he is able to explain concepts well enough for his students to truly understand complex concepts and then translate those ideas to on-snow performance. The ski instructors that shadowed the civilian workshops were a huge help and in turn they enjoyed listening to Michael work with the group and learned a great deal about how to integrate those skills into their teaching style by helping students utilize that knowledge on the hill.

This amazing event gained much attention in the Twitterverse and the entire mountain has been a-buzz with talk of how great working with Michael Rogan was. I can only hope we will be so lucky to have him back next year!

Until then I'll see ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Snow Deva

Packed, Stacked and Jacked: Double Header Evens the Field

2010-02-16T12:57:00.004-05:00

This has been a winter for the record books - the snow just keeps coming and the conditions at Seven Springs have been amazing.

Seven Springs had a wild weekend - after most of the Pittsburgh area schools had the week off due to weather conditions Seven Springs kicked off Winter Fest, held the USSA J3 State Ski Racing Derby, hosted Michael Rogan, top PSIA ski instructor and a Packed, Stacked and Jacked Double header - all of this on top of the Presidents Day weekend which happened to coincide with Valentines Day.

There was so much going on that the mountain literally hummed with frenetic energy.

All of the events on the mountain show the enthusiasm of the ski crowd - none more than the back-to-back PSJ freestyle ski and snowboard events. The PSJ weekend started on a high note when Joe Green, our Oakley rep, showed up with basketball t's with bib numbers that the competitors got to keep. The weather caused a slight change of plans for the Oakley Big Hit comp on Saturday and it was shifted to a modified slope style event - everyone of the competitors loved the format so I expect we will see more of this type of set up in next years PSJ events. It was an exciting day and brought out some great new competitors we have not seen in previous PSJ events. The winners for the day were:

Lds Ski:
1st Julia Schwartz

2nd Elle Pappas

3rd Emily Cocco

Lds Snb:

1st Ashley Vander Meer

2nd Shelby Layman

3rd Shannon Branthoover

Men's Ski:

1st James Rullo

2nd Freddy Brideweser

3rd Tyler Pence

Men's Snb:

1st Chuck Lengle

2nd Cory Cissel

3rd Clint Cooper

Day two of the Double header was the make up day for the K2 Big Air comp that was postponed last weekend due to Snowlapalooza. The make up day turned out to be tough - the expert park crew was sent out to do a final evaluation to determine if conditions were safe enough to send competitors over a 70 foot jump. The night before a 30 footer was built in anticipation of the nasty conditions and it proved to be the saving grace of the comp. The light was flat and the snow was heavy but it paid off big for those competitors who hung in there and has proven to be the great leveler in the over-all point spread for the entire Packed, Jacked and Stacked series.

The winners for the K2 Big Air contest include:

Lds Snb:

1st Ashley Vander Meer

2nd Shannon Branthoover

3rd Shelby Layman

Snb Men:

1st Chuck Lengle

2nd Zack Yourd

3rd Chris Poe

Lds Ski:

1st Emily Cocco

Men Ski:

1st Justin Petriko

2nd James Rullo

3rd Jimmy Hill

Now, due to the shortened field competing on Sunday the point spread is far closer now than it was at the end of Saturday's Oakley event. As of now Chuck Lengle is still out front but not as many of his snowboard buddies came out to support him - more skier guys showed up, girl skiers bailed for the most part and girl snowboarders stayed fairly consistent - gaining the girl snowboarders some much needed points.

As of now the over-all standings are as follows:

Chuck Lengle - 90 Points

Justin Petriko - 84 Points

James Rullo - 80 Points

Zack Yourd - 76 Points

At this point in the game Justin and Zack are leading for the 16 and under points and Ashley Vander Meer is leading the ladies with 32 points with Shannon Branthoover close behind with 26!

This tight of a point spread means that Anything can happen at the final Nordica, Monster Energy Drink, Gnu Snowboards wrap-up event on March 13th so it should be very exciting for everyone.

Keep in mind there will be tons of prizes and sponsorships being handed out on that final day as well as the grand, Packed, Stacked and Jacked prize package going to the top skier or snowboard - this years Seven Springs King of the Hill!

See ya on the Slopes!

Kjerstin Klein

Snow Deva

Willi's Ski Shop Welcomes Mike Rogan to Seven Springs

2010-02-11T17:35:00.003-05:00

Willi's Ski Shop is pleased to welcome Mike Rogan, one of the Country's top 100 ski instructors to conduct lessons at Seven Springs February 12th and 13th.

Willi's Ski and Board Shops announced today that some local skiers will be fortunate enough to learn from Mike Rogan, one of the country's top ski instructors. Mike Rogan is the Director of Instruction for Ski Magazine and is listed as one of the top 100 ski instructors by that publication. Mike is a member of PSIA National Alpine Team and Past Ski Director at Hotel Portillo, Chile.

Mike will begin his visit and tour of the area by spending Friday morning with the talented instructors from Seven Spring's Snowsports School. He plans on conducting small group lessons at Seven Springs Mountain Resort from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. on Friday, February 12th and Saturday, February 13th. Thanks to the folks at Willi's Ski Shop and Nordica, these lessons are being offered to to select Willi's customers. They are free but each session is limited to eight students.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this level of instruction to our valued customers" said Greg Klein, Owner of Willi's and a former FIS ski racer himself. “This winter has been one for the record books in our area. Conditions are perfect, we have plenty of snow, and we can offer a level of instruction that is typically reserved for destination resorts out west, so this is something special." Klein hopes to continue to offer unique opportunities like this to his customers.

Packed, Stacked and Jacked: Double Header Weekend!

2010-02-11T14:04:00.006-05:00

Packed, Stacked and Jacked ran into a little hiccup last weekend, 7 Springs was hit with Snowlapaloza as some are calling the Blizzard of 2010. The K2 Big Air event had to be canceled due to the 30+ inches of snow that closed the slopes until 10:00 AM Saturday. While it is clearly the storm of the decade there appears to be no end in sight as scattered snow showers are expected through next week. Schools all over the district have been canceled and since the Governor has declared it a state of emergency schools are not obligated to make up the lost days.

At this point we are planning to go ahead with the Oakley PSJ event as planned on Saturday. As it currently stands it will be a double header weekend as we have scheduled the postponed K2 Big Air event for Sunday. We are, however, aware that Mother Nature may have other plans so keep tuned into the Packed, Stacked and Jacked Facebook page for details, updates and discussions.

Competitors and spectators alike had a chance to provide input for how to reschedule the K2 event and as it turns out there is no easy way to make everyone happy. The fact of the matter is that The SPOT has a busy winter schedule which has left us with few options. The big thing is that we have prizes and we want to give them away – so we didn’t want to just cancel the K2 event all together – having back-to-back events will benefit some, hurt others and may be the great equalizer in the whole series. The fun part of that is that it will make the Wrap Up Event that much more intense and fun.

It is exciting to see that the PSJ is gaining momentum. It has been so successful that it is garnering national attention and this is good for everyone. It means that individual competitors are getting more of the spotlight, The Spot is getting the attention a #1 ranked park should get and the sponsors are getting more attention for the part they are playing…which means more prizes for everyone. For the remaining events this year we are getting sponsors begging to be involved and sending some great stuff our way. The more people that show up to compete and spectate, the better the competitors throw down the bigger and the better the event will be next year. So bring your friends to compete or just cheer you on – it will be a great weekend with tons of snow, prizes and fun!

Packed, Stacked and Jacked: K2 Big Air Event

2010-02-02T17:12:00.007-05:00

The Packed, Stacked and Jacked event series is continuing with an amazing momentum. Last weekend’s Salomon Super Pipe Event was smokin’. The pipe walls were a bit icy but from the looks of the tricks they were popin' no one seemed to be holding back.

The results for the pipe event, Ski Men's: 1st Justin Petriko, 2nd James Rullo, 3rd Jimmy Leslie; Ladies: 1st Danielle Mulkern, 2nd Elle Pappas, 3rd Emily Cocco; Snowboard Men's: 1st Chuck Lengle, 2nd Dan Genditzki, 3rd Mike Anderson; Ladies: 1st Ashley Vander Meer, 2nd Shannon Branthoover, 3rd Sara Godish, brought about some interesting over-all point leaders – at this point in the series snowboarders have out-gunned skiers with more competitors and now take the top 3 slots.

Brother’s Chuck and Chris Lengle sit at the top of the leader board with 49 and 40 points respectively with Zack Yourd nipping at their heals with 39 points. Justin Petriko, with 38 points and Brandon Stark with 37 points are the two top skiers and snowboarder Ashley Vander Meer is the top female competitor with 12 points.

Seems to me that the girls have started to figure out that the more women that compete the more points they get. The Salomon event saw a precipitous drop in competitors but there was an increase in the percentage of female competitors – way to go ladies! Bring your friends, you get more points – they have a good time!

The good news is that the high level of talent we are seeing in the Packed, Stacked and Jacked series is catching national attention. Because of this companies are clamoring to get on board - Skull Candy, for instance, will be providing 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for the 16 and Under’s in both the Oakley event (Feb. 13) and the wrap-up event (March 13) and prizes for the overall winners 16 and under ski and snowboard categories, as well as something special for the Grand Prize winner! Oakley is also adding a regional sponsorship to the mix so there are more and more reasons to come out and compete.

It is important to keep in mind that this is a cumulative point series so the more events you compete in the better chance you have to gain points – even if that event isn’t your best event. Just by showing up you have a chance to win points as there are points available all the way down to 25th place.

The next event is the K2 Big Air Contest this weekend, Saturday February 6th, 2010 12:00 PM at The Spot. Registration is from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM outside of Willi’s Ski Shop at Seven Springs. The cost is $10 and HELMETS ARE MANDATORY. We also require a waiver signed by someone over 18 years old – a parent preferably, but you only need one waiver for all of the Packed, Stacked and Jacked events. So, if you have competed in one of the #PSJ events already we already have your waiver on file and you don’t need to have another signed. You still need to come by and register though so we pull your papers and give you a bib number – no bib, you won’t be judged – if you’re not judged you can’t win or even get any points…so, register!

K2 has provided some amazing prizes for this weekend’s affair.

Men's Ski:

1st place wins a pair of K2 Silencer Twin Tips

2nd place wins a pair of 4 Speed Composite Poles

3rd place wins a Rant Helmet

Men's SNB:

1st place wins a Parkstar Board

2nd place wins a Helmet

3rd place wins a Hoodie

Ladies Ski:

1st place wins a pair of K2 Misconduct Twin Tips

2nd place wins a pair of K2 4 Karat Poles

3rd place wins a K2 Edge Helmet

Ladies SNB:

1st place wins a Luna Board

2nd place wins a Helmet

3rd wins a Hoodie

The good news is it looks like we will be getting some snow this weekend so the landings will be soft – Joel and the park crew are ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at us and will be doing their best to groom and maintain the jumps so they are in top condition. Whether it is to compete or to spectate – come out and join us at 12:00 PM at THE SPOT!

Packed, Stacked and Jacked Rally's On: The Salomon/DC Super Pipe Event

2010-01-28T16:26:00.005-05:00

The kick off of the 2010 Packed, Stacked and Jacked Series was amazing. The small issue of a completely packed field of excellent competitors forced the event to be a bit delayed but no one appeared to mind. The weather was good, snow was cold and the rails were hot!

For the guys on two sticks, Eric Taylor took first and took home an amazing pair of Line Skis, Brandon came in second winning a pair of poles and Tyler Pence was third and left with a much coveted Line Hoody!

The snowboarders were lead by Cooper Thomas in first for a dynomite Ride Snowboard, Chuck Lengle took second for a pair of Ride boots and Zack Yourd was in third for a equally awsome Ride Hoody.

The girls looked strong and Elle Pappas came out on top for the skiers winning herself a great pair of Line skis, Emily Cocco took second for a pair of poles and Alyse Duskar was in third for a Line Hoody...I'm sure she was rockin' it at school on Monday.

The snowboard girls put on a good show and Ashley Vander Meer was the best of them taking home a Ride snowboard. Shelby Layman took second for a pair of Ride boots and Shannon Brauthoover came in third for a Ride Hoody.

The next #PSJ event is this Saturday, January 30th, 2010 at Seven Springs. It is the Salomon Super Pipe Event. Registration outside Willi's Ski Shop at Seven Springs will begin at 9:00 AM untill 11:00 AM and the comp starts at 12:00 PM. Cost for the event is $10, you may bring your bib # from the last event if its your lucky number but you still have to pay the $10 - if you don't, you won't be on the judges sheet and will not be judged...so you can't win :(

As a reminder HELMETS ARE MANDATORY....our insurance guy has a stroke every time he sees what you all do...helmets make it a bit easier for him to swallow!

The points for the Line and Ride Rail Jam event can be found on the Willi's website on the Events/Leader Board page. The cumulative points will not be posted until after the Salomon Super Pipe Event...we should have those up by Wednesday at the latest. For those of you who are wondering why the girls received fewer points than the guys it is becuase the guys had to compete against so many other people - there have been fewer girl competitors and the point structure is based on a 'full field' which consists of at least 20 competitors - so the key here girls is to get your friends to show up - competing is fun and who knows....you just might go home Packed, Stacked and Jacked!

Packed, Stacked and Jacked Kicks Off: The Line and Ride Rail Jam

2010-01-21T13:05:00.007-05:00

This Saturday, January 23rd, 2010 kicks of the Packed, Stacked and Jacked Contest Series for freestyle ski and snowboarders. This amazing event series, conceived by Greg Klein and held at Seven Springs Mountain Resort starts with a rail jam format event sponsored by Line Skis and Ride Snowboards.

Thanks to Line representative Rene Knudsen and Ride rep Patrick Lawrence there are some awesome prizes to be given away this weekend. There are categories in both Ski and Snowboard for both Men and Women with great 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes for each division - first prize for men's ski is a Line Afterbang ski, men's snowboard 1st prize is a Ride Machete and the top women are going home with a Line Shadow ski and a Ride Compact snowboard.

This event alone is a killer event but it is just one in a series of five awesome events that include the Salomon Super Pipe Event, the K2 Big Air Event, the Oakley Super Hit Event and will end March 13th with the Nordica, Monster Energy Drink, Gnu Wrap-Up Event. The goal is simple - end the series with the most over-all points and you get Packed, Stacked and Jacked with a ton of prizes.

There are sponsorship opportunities and tons of great prizes so the level of competition will be high even if outside talent is not part of the equation - Seven Springs has produced some amazing athletes including Tom Wallisch and Kristi Leskinen and the kids here now are throwin' it down big time. Local hero, Brandon Stark, ended last season's March Radness with a double back and double front flip and rumor has it that he will be rockin' and rollin' again this year!

Should be fun! Remember it all starts in the Goggle Bowl at 5:30 January 23, 2010. Registration will be in front of the Willi's store from 3:00 - 5:00. Cost is $10 and HELMETS ARE MANDATORY FOR ALL EVENTS!

Waist Deep Powder

2010-01-09T12:44:00.005-05:00

This has been one of the most entertaining ski and snowboard seasons we have had in years. I know that 'years' is a nebulous term and you have no idea what I mean by 'entertaining' so let me clarify - I haven't seen this much snow since the winter of '93-'94!

Now I realize we have had snowy winters. I realize we have had cold winters but it has been since I moved here from Colorado that I have seen one of those 'perfect storm' winters.

Pittsburgh sits in just the right place for the most bizarre weather patterns. I have seen it hit 70 degrees in January some years...and I have seen it hit 18 below...there was one year when a week in June had the same temperatures as a week in January. My very intelligent, meteorologist sister, Kimm Viebrock could explain better than me why this happens in the 'Burgh, I just know it is all about location, location, location. There are rare years, however, where fates conspire and we get just the right temperatures with just the right amount of moisture and whala! Waist Deep Powder!

The first winter I moved here I was sure I would miss the intensity of Colorado winters. I was blessed, however, with a Pittsburgh 'perfect storm' winter and was thrilled with how my new city looked covered in a blanket of snow from November until March. "I can live with this" I remember thinking....we haven't had a winter like that since. Don't get me wrong, we've had snow but we haven't had this constant, steady stream of light storms punctuated by a few heavy snow falls and the hope that it will continue this way until March. It's beautiful. This time, knowing that we may not see a winter like this for another 16 years I'm going to do my best to enjoy it!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Keeping Warm Skiing and Snowboarding

2010-01-05T06:16:00.005-05:00

We had a great holiday week at Seven Springs. It was amazing winter weather...most people wouldn't describe it as good winter weather...but amazing just the same. It was cold, snowy and blowy - the likes we haven't seen in years. Not over the holiday break anyway.

Somehow, since it has been so long since we have had a long period of such blustery weather, people seemed to have forgotten how to dress for it. I can't tell you how many frozen people came stumbling into the shop hoping to find some piece of magic to keep them warm. No offence but it isn't magic...just physics.

The human body is an amazing furnace and will produce more than enough heat to keep the average person comfortable - the trick is to save that heat and keep it close to your body. Heat is drawn away from your body by low temperatures (most people get that one), wind (we all recognize windchill) and moisture (not everyone gets that one so we'll talk about that later). The trick to keeping cozy is to stop those elements from robbing your body of the heat it has produced.

Layering is the biggest trick for combating low temperatures. The key is to layer effectively. I can not tell you how many of the people who came in from the slopes this week complaining of the cold had layered with cotton...their layers consisted of a cotton T-shirt, often a short sleeved t-shirt at that, and a bulky hoody under their jacket and honestly believed that they would be warm in sub-freezing temperatures.

Three fatal errors here. 1) Cotton has no thermal capacity - We wear cotton in the summer to dissipate heat. 2)Cotton holds moisture that will rob your body of heat and 3) Bulky garments cause constriction that reduce blood flow and pockets of air that are too big to warm effectively.

So if you are one of the hoody-clad, cotton-wearing masses you may be trying to defend yourself right now..."I was never cold before," "I always wear my sweatshirts to class and I'm fine"...I've heard it all before. This is physics, I'm sure you 'felt' cozy but that is different than being 'warm'.

The fact of the matter is that cotton simply does not have the fiber structure or material content to retain heat. It doesn't, there is no thermal quality to cotton - end of story. Cotton does, however, retain moisture, and a lot of it. Not only does cotton absorb moisture it is exposed to - it holds on to it. The bulkier the cotton garment is the more moisture it will hold - think of how long it takes for your hoody to dry in the dryer versus a thin pair of boxer shorts. If you are layering with cotton all of the sweat is absorbed by that cotton and held there near your body, robbing your body of precious heat. You will be at least 30% colder when you are wet - think of how cold you are when you get out of the shower-you dry off and you are warmer. In this shower example the temperature of the room didn't change, you didn't change what you were wearing...just wet, then dry, cold, then warm. If this example is lost on you try it next time you shower.

Some people have tried to argue with me that they don't really sweat, or that they only sweat when they are over heated...um, hate to break it to you, we all sweat and we sweat a lot. The average person sweats anywhere from .5 to 1.7 liters an hour depending on activity level. Skiing and snowboarding rank quite high on the activity charts so to help you with the visual try this exercise for yourself - take that cotton hoody you think is so warm, take one of those typical bottles of 'Natural Spring Water' you have sitting at your desk and dump it on your sweatshirt - then put it on and tell me how warm you are...cozy, right? The next problem is that it doesn't dry very fast - and each hour you have to dump another bottle of water on it. Not dry, not warm, not cozy.

Now the fact that most hoodies don't fit comfortably under your typical ski or snowboard jacket seems like it might be a giveaway for some people...none-the-less I see people do it all the time. Hoody hoods stick out and collect snow or even better, are crammed into the jacket making the wearer look like the Hunch Back of Notre Dame. Rolled up sleeves often stick out past the jacket cuffs and the hoody hem and extra fabric bunches all out under the bottom of the jacket...It is quiet the fashion statement-but beyond that it has created pockets of dead air that the body simply cannot warm up. The idea behind layering is to create small pockets of air that are easy for the body to warm up creating a buffer zone of warm air that protects you from the cold elements. Each of these layers holds heat long enough for you to produce more - it helps you keep ahead of the power curve. Sure heat is lost to the elements but it is done at such a rate that you can produce enough to replace what is lost so as to keep you warm. Large, open pockets of air can't do this.

In addition, those bulky garments will constrict in other areas often reducing blood flow causing certain areas of your body to be cold. One of the best examples of this is the big open sleeve of a hoody crammed into the sleeve of a ski or snowboard jacket. Typically the hoody will bunch up at the upper part of the sleeve, particularly on the inside of the arm, closest to the body. This just happens to be the place where the major artery to your lower arm happens to be and any pressure on that artery will reduce the blood flow to the hands enough to freeze those little fingers to the bone faster than you can say "Does this run take me back to the lodge?"

So now that I have let the cat out of the bag, yes, the ultimate warmth of your fingers, and your toes for that matter, is directly related to what you wear on your body. I'm not talking about just the artery deal - I'm talking about the whole layering-and-keeping-your-body-warm deal. Keep in mind that in a survival situation your body thinks of your fingers and toes as expendable. Your body doesn't realize that you have chosen to go out in sub-freezing temperatures and expose yourself to the adrenaline rush of skiing and snowboarding to have a little fun - it thinks this is serious business and unless your core body is warm it will not, I repeat, will not allow one ounce of extra warmth to head to the fingers or the toes. Blood flow will be restricted to the rest of the body and saved for the head and the core of the body until such time that it feels there is heat to be spared. So while good gloves are important, your body layers are even more so.

So please, no cotton layers, no jeans, no sweat pants, no hoodies, no gym socks-you'll freeze and then I'll feel bad because I'm the one who is supposed to make sure you are warm so you can have fun.

Keep warm so I can see ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

I'd Rather Be Working

2009-12-27T11:36:00.004-05:00

Christmas has passed for another year and even though it has turned out to be an incredible day I have passed up a chance to head to the slopes to stay in to work.

I realize most of you will say I am nuts but I really DO enjoy what I do and frankly with all the holiday craziness I have not been able to get to all of those things I have wanted to do work wise.

Most of you know that I work for Willi's Ski Shop...what I do there is wear many hats and like most people who wear many hats I do not give everything the attention I should. What often falls by the wayside when things get busy is the communication with our cyber community. When things are nuts I don't get to chat with other enthusiasts, I don't get to write about the things I love about the outdoors in winter, the great new products or how great the slopes or the competitions are, and I miss it. To me communicating about it is what makes the whole 'mountains-in-winter' thing fun - the sharing. I just happen to be in the lucky position of being paid for doing it!

So - even though the slopes here at Seven Springs are incredible today, don't think me too odd for choosing to work; instead, find me on twitter and tell me all about your most recent day on the slopes, post some pictures on our facebook pages or make a comment here because for me, that is work, and today, I'd rather be working!

See ya on the slopes! - (but not today)

Kjerstin

Seven Springs Season Starts on a High Note

2009-12-21T22:02:00.003-05:00

I am looking out the window as I am writing this. It is still snowing - has been for most of the day and I know the snow up at Seven Springs is nothing short of amazing. I was disappointed that I could not make it up this past weekend due to work and other commitments here in the city. A winter weekend in the city, however, has made me all that much more grateful for the incredible weekend I had in the mountains the weekend before.

Seven Springs hosted the Rome SDS Premature Jibulation and while neither Willi's Ski Shop nor The Jib Shop had anything directly to do with the comp we happily joined in the festive atmosphere and loved helping competitors get their boards ready for the early season rail jam.

I'd love to say I got some great shots with the new shop camera but...as you might be able to tell from the lack of a picture at the top of the post - I didn't. Frankly I'm just not sure I've gotten the hang of all the buttons and knobs but the park crew has tons of great footage so I encourage you to visit their site.

If any of you out there have any good footage we'd love to see it - you can post it to our The Jib Shop Facebook page or send me the link and I will get it up there.

The great weather and awesome rail jam has really started the Seven Springs season off on a high note - I've got a good feeling the snow gods will be smiling on us all season long :)

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Seven Springs Begins the 2009-10 Season Tomorrow

2009-12-09T13:55:00.010-05:00

You may wonder what skiers and snowboarders do in the winter before the season starts...well, we wait...

and wait...

We try to entertain ourselves the best we can. On this particular, near summer day in late November, we enjoyed a day at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. With the weather cool enough to enjoy, the animals came out to play and it was truly an amazing day (click here for the full web album).

The waiting is now over...

and as of tomorrow the 2009-10 season is in full swing at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. We have some amazing events planned so I hope you will come to join us!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Nordica Unveils the New Park Boot

2009-09-23T12:50:00.007-04:00

As I am writing this entry the count down on the unveiling of the new, top secret Nordica Park Boot is at 4 Days, 21 Hours and a little over 6 Minutes. Greg Klein, my awsome husband and wonderful boss is heading over to Europe in a little over 21 Hours for the big unveiling party and has promised to provide me with up-to-the-minute, insider information.

He will be posting on Twitter and Facebook throughout the wine-and-dine trip so be sure to follow him on our The Jib Shop page on Facebook and at @thejibshop on Twitter for all the saucey details!

Kicking Off the Season: Day 2 of the Pre Season Sale

2009-09-06T09:01:00.010-04:00

It is Day 2 of our annual Labor Day Pre Season Ski and Snowboard sale. For me it is like Homecoming - I see so many of my favorite people in one weekend and it really gets me excited for the upcoming season.

One of the best parts this year is that our Monroeville sale is in the new Monroeville Convention Center. It is a great facility and moving in was really easy because of how it is set up. I have to admit I was a bit worried about people finding us in the new location but given how busy we were yesterday I guess there was no problem.

I love unpacking the merchandise - it is kind of like unwrapping holiday decorations "Oh, I love this jacket!" or "This is one of my favorite sweatshirts".

Loading the skis and snowboards into the Convention Center I thought of how great each one of them performed when we were out testing them.

I am always amazed at what we are able to find to bring to the sale and the great prices we put on the merchandise. The snowsport industry is one of the last great places for true craftsmanship and quality so when something is on sale like this it is truly a great deal - not a mark down of previously overpriced merchandise.

Even though it is Day 2 and we were really busy yesterday there is still great merchandise left.

We have racks of great t-shirts and hoodies.

Pants and jackets from some great snowboard lines,

even great fashion merchandise.

Accessories are one of the best reasons to hit the sale - hats, thermals, socks and gloves are at their lowest prices of the season. Even if you don't ski or snowboard - in Pittsburgh EVERYONE needs warm gear.

So whether it is for yourself or gifts for this Holiday Season or just to say Hi, we still have two days left today and tomorrow, Sunday and Monday 10am to 5pm.

Hall of Fame Class Of 2008 - Ambassadors For Local Resorts

2009-04-06T20:15:00.004-04:00

Saturday night was the Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame Induction Dinner held at Deer Valley resort in Park City Utah. I was lucky enough to be among some of the biggest names in the ski industry to witness the Class of 2008 enter into the annals of ski and snowboard history.

What struck me the most was not all of the numerous and amazing accomplishments the four inductees, Cary Adgate, Nelson Carmichael, Liz McIntyre and Bill Brigs are responsible for but the fact that each one of them had their beginnings at humble local hills.

Whether it was passion or circumstances that brought them to the big mountains each of them maintained a link to their roots in the east and I was impressed by how this apparently factored into each of their lives. These people have had experiences that few have ever had the chance to even dream of yet the place it all started for them is accessible to all.

Small, local resorts often act as if they have an inferiority complex when compared to the big mountain resorts yet it was clear at the induction dinner that every resort has its role to play. Reaching out to local youth and offering the opportunity to be part of this wonderful industry is only one of their roles.

It was wonderful to see that an event like this can help to bring big and small mountains onto a level playing field. Whether the Class of 2008 knows it or not they can add one more accomplishment to their list of accolades, ambassadors for the small local resorts – and for that we thank them!

See ya on the slopes – big and small :)

Kjerstin

The Monster Weekend Comes To a Close

2009-03-17T05:59:00.006-04:00

What an amazing weekend - It is Tuesday already and I'm barely recovered! So much happened during the Monster Homecoming Invitational at Seven Springs that it could probably fill several blog entries. I'll try not to get off on a tangent, however, and give you the real news worthy stuff.

Practice on Friday was a bit of a challenge. Warm weather coming in created a strong headwind but the girls were able to get a good feeling for the course. Thanks to the design of the course and its excellent maintenance by the park crew the landings were kept smooth and safe. Unfortunately Kaya Turski separated her shoulder but that didn't keep her from the the comp. Not only did she tear it up with corked 720s, switch 900s, and large switch-to-switch straight airs called zero spins she walked away with the Homecoming crown for the skiers. Grete Eliassen took second and the Monster hostess with the mostest Kristi Leskinen found herself a spot on the podium with a corked 720 mute grab.

Chanelle Sladics took the snowboard crown with her strong performance on the rails backed up by her outstanding cab 360 and cab 540. My fav, sweetie Silvia Mittermuller, took 2nd on the snowboard side followed by Maribeth Swetkoff.

While the tricks were big they are tougher to pull than usual. The girls were fighting soft, wet snow that reduced their speed forcing them to fight for every inch of air. Willi's sent up a box of Swix rub on wax that the girls used before each run which seemed to help but the warm March air continued to be a factor throughout the weekend.

The girls celebrated the event Saturday night in Seven Springs' night club, the Matterhorn and seemed to enjoy cutting loose. Sunday morning found them hosting local kids who had stuck around after the event to ride with them. The soggy conditions did not dampen the kids enthusiasm as they worked on their skills at the different park areas of Seven Springs.

The coaching the kids were given seemed to pay off because there was some amazing stuff being thrown down at the Amateur Rail Jam Sunday afternoon. Over 65 kids showed up to show off in front of the girls who cheered them on and tossed out some great prizes for everything from the best crash to the biggest air.

"I think the ride-with-a-pro and the Amateur Rail Jam was a great part of the weekend," said Greg Klein from Willi's Ski and Board Shop. "It really gave the locals a chance to connect with the girls and I think it was fun for the girls to see that there is some real talent coming out of Seven Springs"

There is no doubt that this event was a huge success and will continue to grow in the years to come. Thanks and a big shout out to Kristi and all of the sponsors who made this great event happen - Seven Springs, Monster Energy Drink, Rome Snowboards, Oakley, Willi's Ski and Board Shop and media partner Freeskier Magazine.

Girls Gone Wild

2009-03-13T22:24:00.004-04:00

Great Picture Evan!

Tell me what Western PA men like better than hot girls with guns? Today the competitors for the Monster Homecoming Kristi Leskinen Invitational, some of the worlds top ski and snowboard girls, saw the grandeur of Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

The girls recuperated from their busy schedules and long travels with some practice on the specially designed course before heading out to shoot trap.

When they finished turning the clay pigeons into small chips they regrouped for a great dinner and presentation from Women's Sports Foundation.

The real fun starts for the rest of us tomorrow when the competition starts at 12:00 pm. Don't forget that 10 to 16 year olds can join these girls on the slopes Sunday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Registration is from 8:00-9:30 am and space is limited. While this event is free the Women's Sports Foundation will be on hand to accept donations.

It is going to be a great weekend!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

A Monster Event

2009-03-05T13:42:00.006-05:00

This is going to be a MONSTER event - I mean that figuratively and literally! The Kristi Leskinen Homecoming Invitational is an amazing all-girl slopestyle event sponsored by Monster Energy Drink. The girls that are coming to compete in Saturdays main event starting at 12:00 pm, are some of the biggest names in skiing and snowboarding today.

It is going to be an incredible 3 days with fireworks, big media coverage and girls tearing up the slopes. Girls and boys ages 10-16 can spend time with the pros on Sunday at the Ride-With-A-Pro event from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm - registration is from 8:00 am to 9:30 am at the Yurt and space is limited so get there early. This is a free event but the Women's Sports Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of healthy, active lifestyles for women, will be on hand accepting donations.

After these girls show you what they know you may want to compete in the Amateur Rail Jam from 1:00 - 2:00 on Sunday and stick around for the Pro Rail Jam at 2:30.

To kick this entire weekend of fun off Kristi will be in the Willi's Castle Shanon store signing autographs from 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm. Willi's has coupons for a $20 lift ticket at Seven Springs so you can bring the whole family to ski, snowboard and be part of a MONSTER event!

Hope to see you there and...See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

The Kristi Leskinen Monster Homecoming Invitational 2009

2009-02-25T14:01:00.007-05:00

I'm not exactly letting the cat out of the bag since we have been working on this for weeks now but I finally have some details to share for the Kristi Leskinen Monster Homecoming Invitational being held at Seven Springs March 13th-15th, 2009.

We at Willi's are excited to be part of this world class event as it is a chance to showcase our region to some of today's top female names in ski and snowboard slopestyle.

Kristi Leskinen, a pioneer in women's freeskiing conceived of this one-of-a-kind event to raise the profile of women in skiing and snowboarding. To date this is the only All Girl, Ski and Snowboard, Slopestyle Event and Rail Jam.

The event is actually 3 days worth of on and off the slope fun, complete with a professional, cash prize slopestyle event, interactive opportunities for the fans and an amateur rail jam.

As fun as it all will be it would never have come together with out the enthusiastic support of Seven Springs Park Manager Joel Rerko and the commitment Seven Springs has made to the project. The excitement is building and more details will be posted as we nail the schedule down but for now here is a list of the confirmed competitors.

Skiers
Kaya Turski
Sarah Burke
Keri Herman
Meg Olenik
Athena Bronson
Jess Cumming
Jen Hudak
Rosalind Groenewoud
Grete Eliassen
Ashley Battersby
Angeli VanLaanen

Snowboarders
Kimmi Fasani
Chanelle Sladics
Leanne Pelosi
Silvia Mittermueller
Raewyn Reid
Bev Vuilleumier
Hana Beaman
Tara Dakides
Alexis Waite
Megan Ginter
Izzy Lalive

This will be a really great event – come out and watch the girls compete on Saturday March 14th, get autographs and join them for the Ride-With-A-Pro for those 16 years old and under on Sunday March 15th.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

This Is Why I Do What I Do

2009-02-21T13:24:00.004-05:00

Today was supposed to be my catch up day. I've been feeling so behind in every aspect of my home and work life that I figured I'd send the kids out to ski, husband to mind Willi's and I would lock myself away and work.

In my defense it is a blue-bird day here and the slopes were calling - no singing my name. The last ounce of my concentration slipped away and I gave into it. I rushed down to the slopes to get a few runs in instead of eating lunch and was immediately rewarded by an Anna sighting. She rushed into my arms, gave me a big hug and then took off back to her WPRC ski team mates. It was then that I knew I'd made the right decision.

It was beautiful out on the hill - Greg even came with me for a few runs and now I'm back at 'work' doing what I love to do. I honestly believe my heading out to the slopes was not a work avoidance technique but the vital mental floss I needed to remind me of why I do what I do.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Mid Season Maintenance

2009-02-16T12:24:00.006-05:00

If you are having the season I have had it is time to take a quick look at your gear. The season here at Seven Springs started in early November so I've already had to do some work on my gear.

The basic rule of thumb for your skis and snowboards is to edge and wax them every 10 days on the hill. A stone grind will touch up the bases, take out small nicks and scratches and re-texture the material for a better glide. For deeper cuts P-tex or a base weld may be necessary. A ceramic cup grind, if available in your area, is a great way to treat your gear right - it polishes and hardens the edges back to factory condition and is the best way to get the most performance out of your equipment.

Mid season is also a good time to have your bindings looked over just to make sure everything is working properly.

For your apparel I am hopeful that you wash your socks, thermals, fleece and neck gaiter on a regular basis but your outerwear could use some attention too.

Many people avoid laundering their outerwear for fear of damaging it. With rare exceptions ski and snowboard performance outerwear is not only easy to launder but will perform better for it as well. The reason for this is that the process will redistribute and re-loft the garments insulation making it warmer. It will improve the breathability of the garment by removing dirt and oils that clog the pores in the fabric and it will bring the waterproofing sprays and coatings back to the surface re-establishing the DWR (Durable Water Resistance) component of the garments weather protection.

Keep in mind that it is best to launder performance wear in suds that are specifically designed for the task. Follow directions on the label and it is helpful to add a tennis ball to the drier to bring the original softness, drapability and loft back to the garment.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Willi's Salomon Jib Academy Rocks Seven Springs

2009-02-09T20:44:00.007-05:00

Seven Springs was jumping with activity this weekend but it was the Salomon Jib Academy that finally blew the doors off.

Riders and coaches from the Salomon Team swooped down to coach over 70 10-16 year olds all day on Saturday, February 7th, 2009. The kids learned slope style tricks and jumps then wowed the crowd with an amazing competition to determine who would win the big trip to live like a rock star with the big dawgs at Mammoth Mountain for a week in May.

Since there are only 3 Jib Academy events in the USA the Seven Springs kick off event drew kids from as far as Colorado, Michigan and North Carolina. As to be expected it was the local crew that made up the bulk of the kids and the WPRC Freestyle team showed up in force and now will be a force to be reckoned with at their next comp at Seven Springs on March 7th and 8th. After competing in Rails and Air it was local hero Noah Killen who took home the big prize but there isn't a kid who came that didn't leave with a great memory and a few new tricks up their sleeve.

It was an incredible day for everyone involved. The amazing thing was how easily the kids, pros and coaches mixed. There was a lot of camaraderie and on the slopes it appeared as if they were all just a bunch of friends doing what they love to do.

Of course none of this could happen without the team effort of Salomon, Willi's and Seven Springs - Special kudos goes out to the park crew for creating the most amazing park on the East Coast bar none.

There are tons of pix and videos to be seen so check them out at:
http://picasaweb.google.com/Willisski/TheSalomonJibAcademy200902?feat=email#
http://www.7springs.com/page/category.detail/nav/5348/Community.html

So until next time - See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Viva Las Vegas

2009-01-29T22:22:00.004-05:00

What happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas - good place to have the SIA (Snowsports Industries of America) Buying show! Or at least it was. Next year the show will move to Denver and some feel it will never be the same. The final SIA Buying Show is in winding down and when it closes it will mark the passing of an era.

The ski industry was just gaining national momentum when the buying show was moved from New York to Las Vegas. The entire industry seemed to be as golden as the coins spilling out of the slot machines. The vendors spent more and more money trying to woo and wow buyers. Each year the booths got bigger and crazier. They added music, dancers and it was all about selling the sizzle. Buying for a ski and snowboard shop was much more exciting in a two story tiki bar. Everyone in the industry was having fun.

The sobering fact is though that over the past few years the industry has been changing - changing so fast that we barely have time to analyse and evaluate how to move with it, how to stay in business and it is tough to foresee how things will all shake out in the end.

With the show moving from Las Vegas it is a chance for everyone in the industry to wake up from the party, figure out where we are and find a cab to take us home - and hope that we haven't been locked out.

What A Winter!

2009-01-28T13:44:00.004-05:00

When I took Dylan to his GS race two weeks ago the temp in my car read 18 degrees below zero. We have had several school delays and today school has been canceled due to the huge snow and ice storm that is hitting the East Coast. It was my original intention to throw the kids in the car and head to the mountain but at this point the drive would be too hairy.

The kids have another race this weekend and while I'm hoping it won't be as cold this time I have to admit I'm enjoying having a 'real' winter after so many warm ones. All in all it has been a fun winter - wild extremes but tons of fun. Here's to hot drinks and cold nights!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Rockin' and Rollin' At Seven Springs

2009-01-26T11:37:00.007-05:00

It has been an amazing 10 days at Seven Springs! There has been so much going on I couldn't get to it all!

Last Saturday WPRC held the Snow Capitol GS and when I got up to get my racers to the hill it was -18 degrees! President Ken Fedorek was contacted by many of the parents to find out if the race would still be held - his answer? "Well, it is a winter sport."

It turned out to be an incredible race with racers coming from Ohio, Maryland and all over Pennsylvania.

The weather only warmed up a little by mid week when Willi's hosted the annual Head Women's Day. Lisa Densmore signed autographs as the ladies gathered to head out for a day on the hill.

Starting with a wine and cheese party the night before and closing with coctails Apres Ski the event was focused on the lifestyle of skiing as much as skiing itself. The ladies were treated to lessons with the Seven Springs instructors and worked in groups with Lisa throughout the day. As cold as it was everyone had a blast.

By Friday night the temperature was back down below zero but that didn't stop all of the weekend events. WPRC Alpine Team hosted a two day PA Cup slalom race on Saturday and Sunday while the Freestyle Team tore it up with a two day, UPMC sponsored Mogul Challenge.

Sandwiched in between was the kick off of the Red Bull Buttercup - a new contest series on the East Coast. The lights were on and the tricks were hot.

This next weekend WPRC will hold the CTR GS so hold on to your hat - there's is more to come!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Wine, Cheese, Fashion and Skis!

2009-01-15T14:55:00.004-05:00

Last night's wine and cheese party and fashion show kicked off the 2009 Willi's Head Women's Day at Springs Springs. The ladies were treated to a fabulous day of skiing today and will be joining each other for Apres Ski in the Maple room shortly.

Many of the participants skiied on demos from Head's '08-'09 women's ski collection and everyone enjoyed their lessons with th Seven Springs instructors and skiing sensation Lisa Densmore.

This years event was completely booked so if you missed it make sure to get in on it next year!

Thanks to everyone who joined us and check back here for pictures - I'll have them posted soon!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Willi's Line Rail Jam At Seven Springs

2009-01-10T12:02:00.007-05:00

Here is a little taste of the few pix I took at the Willi's Line Rail Jam held at Seven Springs outside of the Foggy Goggle on Decembe 20th, 2008.

Check out the rest of the photos

Willi's Line Rail Jam At Seven Springs and leave me some comments - I'd love for someone to enter the names of the competitors as I did not get a chance to personally meet them all!

Thanks to everyone who came out to compete that day and hope to see you at the Salomon Jib Academy!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Taking A Breather!

2009-01-03T13:44:00.002-05:00

I am finally taking a second to catch my breath. With the mountain opening in mid November and the busy holiday season I feel like I have been running Mach Schnell. I’m lucky that the lines between work and play are so blurred because I have been at it hard for 6 weeks now and it is beginning to take its toll – it would be nice if things could slow down just a tad for a few days.

It feels good to be sitting to write at my computer for a few minutes – both the sitting part and the writing part! Oddly enough the best place for me to get an internet connection here at Seven Springs is up here in the Foggy Goggle Bar – but as I said the lines between work and play are blurred – often VERY blurred!

So I have yet to post the pictures from the Line Rail Jam on December 20, 2008. I am having some technical difficulties. That is the smooth way of saying that I forgot my cables in the city when I packed and my computer won’t read the card from the ‘good’ camera that I used for the day. I have some good shots and it was a great day so I will get them up as soon as possible.

The mountain has been fantastic – even those four lousy days we had right over Christmas were better than some of the mid season days we had last year. I chalk that up to the excellent job the snow making and grooming team did – those boys have the hardest job on the mountain. You know I can tell they have the most fun though – I am usually here in the Goggle working in the morning when they come down each day – they are in their jump suits riding their shovels like sleds cheering each other on. They get such a good ride that I think maybe I’ll trade in my skis for a shovel!

I’ve been lucky enough to be up on the hill for at least part of everyday. We spent most of the day in the park yesterday as the kids didn’t have race training due to the holiday. I am taking a few minutes off just to do some catching up but it is so beautiful out there I am feeling a bit sorry for myself. I’ll be out there later though as we have our consumer demo here today. Just pop into the store and pay the $10 demo fee and you will get a sheet for the reps to record all of your demos and comments on. Drop the sheet and a photo id at the tents and you can spend the day on new product from Head, Nordica, K2, Rossignol, Atomic, Volkl, Salomon and Line . I’m hoping the weather will hold since tomorrow, Sunday, I’ll be helping out with the WPRC Ohiopyle Slalom Race and cheering my son Dylan on in his first race of the season.

It has been a great holiday break and I want to make the best of what is left of it so…

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Seven Springs Hosts Subaru, Burton and Line

2008-12-20T13:07:00.002-05:00

What a day here at Seven Springs! The conditions are pretty good considering yesterday's rain and the wide spread power outage.

Lots of people are out having a great time at the Subaru tent, getting set up with Burton demo boards or competing in Willi's Line Rail Jam.

Subaru has got all kinds of great giveaways, they are play great music and giving away free mini lessons.

The Burton guys are turning screws to set up bindings for riders to try out this seasons new boards. With a photo ID and a credit card anyone can come and try a Burton demo board (if you are under 18 bring your parent to sign the waiver for you!).

The Line Rail Jam is just getting underway - there are at least 20 hot competitors duking it out for a new pair of Line skis, helmets, googles, hoodies and t-shirts. Even better, the Foggy Goggle bar is now filling up with spectators!

All in all it is a great day - if you're not here where are you?!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Burton Customer Demo Day and World Snowboard Day!

2008-12-18T09:00:00.002-05:00

It is going to be a busy weekend up at Seven Springs December 20th - 21st, 2008. There is something for everyone! The Rail Jam sponsored by Line Skis and Willi's Ski Shop will be right outside the Foggy Goggle on Saturday with competition starting at 1:00 PM.

The snowboarders will be off having there own fun. This is the weekend to celebrate the fun of the sport and Burton will be there to kick things off. Starting at 9:00 AM a rep from Burton will be handing out free boards to try. To test out the goods all you need is a photo ID and a credit card (in case you run off with it!). If you are under 18 bring a parent to sign the waiver for you - then you're off! Try as many boards as you like and if you like anything you've tried swing by the Willi's at the base of the hill or check out our on-line shops at The Jib Shop or Ski Warehouse and have it shipped to you.

After you have had a chance to try some new stuff join the fun for World Snowboard Day on Sunday December 21st, 2008. Come on out, join the fun and suport your sport!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

The Line Rail Jam At Seven Springs December 20th 2008

2008-12-14T10:58:00.008-05:00

All was quite this morning in the park outside of the Foggy Goggle at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. That will change this weekend when Willi's Ski Shop hosts the Line Rail Jam! Check out photos from last year at CU On The Mountain.

This should be an incredible event for competitors and spectators alike. Having the competition right outside of one of Pennsylvania's most famous bars will bring a packed audience ready for a great show.

With the level of comptetion that is expect they should not be disappointed. There are several competitive catagories and anyone is welcome to join the fun. Competitors should show up for registration between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Practice will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and the competition will start at 1:00. Registration is $10.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

WPRC Begins The 2008-09 Race Season

2008-12-13T12:33:00.007-05:00

I just dropped the kids off for the afternoon session of this seasons first day of training with the Western Pennsylvania Race Club. WPRC makes its home at Seven Springs and it couldn't be a more beautiful day here.

There has been quite a bit of natural snow so far this year and the skiing has been great. Seven Springs is obviously dedicated to making sure this is one of the best seasons we've had for a while because they have been adding to their base by blowing man-made snow whenever conditions allow. As I look out on the slopes right now there are a few guns still running but they have turned a number of them off for the comfort of their customers.

The snow guns didn't seem to bother the racers though. They all seemed to just jump right in at this morning's session. Even my little Anna, who loves to sleep, was up at 6:30 ready to go. This is her first year with the team and without even a hint of shagrin she informed me that she was tired of skiing with me and zipped off to make new friends on the team. Dylan is a veteran with the team but was equally excited for the race season to begin and as a parent I can't say enough about the program. WPRC is a great organization where the kids can learn about competing in a supportive, non-threatening environment. They run both a USSA sanctioned Alpine and Freestyle Team and the kids are even allowed to compete and train in both. It is an entirely parent run, volunteer organization where the kids as well as parents can make lifelong friends, are offered superior training and can gain invaluable lessons for life.

The first race of the season is over the holiday break and with the season starting so early I'm sure the level of competition will be great to watch. I wish all the racers the best of luck for the first race and the entire season!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

SPK Kaos Freestyle Boots

2008-12-11T09:13:00.006-05:00

Looking around at the other e-tailers it appears there are only a few pairs of the '08 Salomon SPK Kaos Freestyle boots floating around. Even though some of them have them listed my guess is they would be hard pressed to put their hands on them.

I have been digging around in our warehouse looking for any loose bits and pieces and have found an SPK in a 25.5 and a 26.5. I realize these are pretty small sizes but at $299 they would make a great gift for someone who might be growing out of them soon.

If you are interested contact me directly as they are not listed on our website anymore but I'd love to see someone get them because they are a great boot - one of our staff's favorites to sell.

I might also be able to find a few pairs of Mojo's, Gun's and Foil's if that is of interest to anyone.

A Diamond In The Snow: The Pur Fur Jacket

2008-12-04T16:55:00.010-05:00

Ok guys - for those of you who have no idea what to get your girl for the holidays you can warm her heart with a diamond - A Diamond In The Snow that is!

The Pur Fur Jacket from A Diamond In The Snow ($898) is a great jacket and not getting a ton of play because there are no pictures available so unless you are in the store you can't tell how awsome it is!

The fur detail is on the chest, back, collar and cuffs - but it is reversible too! The jacket is warm, beautiful on and off the slopes and has a zillion pockets (a very important feature!). Every little detail of this jacket is top of the line and gorgeous.

I am a pretty typical streetwear size 8 with long arms - I am wearing a size 8 in these pictures and as you can see the sleeve length is good on me - I might take a size 10 if I were going to layer heavily under it.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need help with choosing a size,

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Fitting Children For Accessories

2008-11-30T10:49:00.001-05:00

In fashion wear accessories are the final decorative pieces but in winter wear they are the final performance pieces. They add warmth and can help to cover up any fit issues that may have come up in the previous categories. Accessories are hats, headbands, scarves, neck gaiters, glove liners, goggles and sunglasses.

Lets talk first about hats, headbands and scarves – first let me say they have no place on the hill for a child. Hats, love ‘em. Wouldn’t go out without one – for kids, however, they should be saved for the walk from the car to the lodge, headbands too. Kids should be in helmets on the hill. Safety is the first and best reason for kids to wear them. As my 6 year old went sailing into the trees today and came out with only a small brush burn under her goggles I thanked the helmet no less than 100 times. I really don’t think I need to go on and on about helmets for kids on the hill. You either get it or you don’t – if you don’t, e-mail me and I’ll provide you with some of the statistics on what a head injury could mean to your child’s future. But hey, it isn’t that skiing is so dangerous. Not any worse than just being a kid! It is just that on the hill you can do something about it. Anyway if the safety part of it isn’t enough for you keep in mind that helmets are far warmer than hats. But for when you are done on the hill, playing outside or just walking around town a hat is a good idea – luckily it is also in fashion!

For a kid it is easy to get a poorly fitting hat and frankly it doesn’t matter. If the kid likes it and is willing to wear it – it is fine. If you want one that fits though, that is easy too. Keep in mind that kid’s heads don’t grow that much, by the time they are 10 they are in an adult size hat. For little kids they will want a toddler sized hat for the depth of the hat and how big around it is, that way it won’t come down over their eyes. As they get bigger a hat that is too small will not cover their ears but can also be too tight around the head. This is not only uncomfortable but it can lead to headaches over time.

Headbands are basically the same. Too big and it will slip down or be too wide for them and too small may lead to headaches and simply won’t cover their ears. Keep in mind headbands are not a great idea for kids because over 20% of your body heat is lost through your head and while a headband will keep their ears comfortable it will not keep their body heat up.

Scarves are another thing to keep off the mountain. Sure they look cute but they can be bulky and dangerous. Scarves can get caught in chair lifts and rope tows with ugly results. Plus most scarves are not made out of performance fabrics so they get wet and do little protect the neck and face or to retain heat in the jacket like a neck gaiter will.

I think neck gaiters are the greatest invention. They take up the space around the collar of the jacket trapping warm air next to the body and not allowing it to escape. They also protect the neck and chin from the hardware of the jacket and the environment. They should only be purchased in performance fabrics that keep warm and dry because moisture from breathing can build up and if it is not dissipated can do just as much harm as being exposed to the elements. They do come in two sizes but the smaller kids sizes are really only for very little kids. They are narrower so they will stay closer to the neck and short so as to not bulk up under the collar of the jacket when it is zipped up all the way. The larger adult sized neck gaiters can be used for any child as long as it lays fairly close to the neck and dose not bulk up under the chin.

Glove liners should fit the child’s hand snuggly with not a lot of extra material at the end of the fingers. Some liners have nice little pockets to hold chemical heat packs and I highly suggest them. They will keep the heat pack away from being directly on the child’s skin and in a place where they won’t come out easily if the child has a Yard Sale fall where everything but their boots come off!

Goggles should always be fit with the helmet. The strap should fit easily around the entire helmet and the frame should fit directly onto the face inside the rim of the helmet. The foam of the goggle should press gently on the child’s face leaving no gaps around the edges. Gaps will let air in and may make the child’s eyes tear up making it hard to see and tears may freeze up inside the goggle or on the child’s face.

It is my feeling that children should wear goggles rather than sunglasses but either way they should have some sort of eye protection. My biggest issue with children’s sunglasses is that rarely are parents willing to shell out the money for a decent lens. Poor lenses rarely have adequate protection from UV A, B and C rays, lack impact resistance and cause so much distortion that the kids end up with eye strain. Having been a sunglass buyer for years this is an area near and dear to my heart so I should probably allow myself a full rant on the subject another time but if you are going to put sunglasses on your kids on the hill make sure they fit properly. Sunglasses should be narrow enough for their face, cover the eye entirely and fit snuggly at the temples but not tight. I would also suggest some sort of a strap to keep them on – again for the potential Yard Sale but also so when they go into the lodge they can just slip them down around their neck and not have to worry about them – especially if you are one of the rare parents who will shell out for a good pair.

Accessories play and important roll and should not be over looked. Both on and off the slopes accessories keep the snow from getting in and heat from getting out. As a rule of thumb always check to make sure that they fit properly with the rest of their gear and they should fit close but not tight.

Hope that helps! See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Hands On: Fitting Children fro Gloves or Mittens

2008-11-17T12:05:00.004-05:00

Gloves and mittens play a crucial role in the warmth and comfort of a child on the hill. It is important to remember that children lack the physical awareness to feel cold in the same way adults do. This makes it more likely that they will try to take gloves and mittens off if they feel restricted or uncomfortable. The first rule of fitting then is to insure that it is comfortable for the child to improve the chances that they will stay on for the entire day.

Determining whether to buy a glove or mitten is the first issue. Younger children lack the dexterity to do much with their fingers anyway so they typically don’t mind wearing a mitten. Mittens are warmer and easier to fit and are therefore the best choice if the child is willing to wear them. The older they get the more likely they will push for gloves over mittens but it is my suggestion to keep them in mittens as long as possible.

Style choices for both glove and mittens vary widely. They all work effectively and the choice should really be left up to the personal preference of the child. Gloves and Mittens can come with long or short gauntlets. Longer gauntlets are often thought of as a snowboarding style but they will work for skiing just as well. Short gauntlets are offered in 2 different styles. The first is your typical style where the cuff of the glove or mitten comes to the base of sleeve and often has a snug inner cuff that can fit under the sleeve making a tight junction insuring that no warm air escapes from the jacket or mitten and that no snow gets up into the sleeve. The second is referred to as an under glove or mitten. The entire cuff of the glove or mitten is designed to go under the entire cuff of the sleeve. This is also considered a snowboarding style but again, equally effective for skiing.

Regardless of style the fit issues are the same. To check for the proper fit of a glove or mitten start at the fingers and work your way to the wrist. When fitting a mitten you only have to be concerned that the longest finger has enough room to straighten out and that there is not too much fabric left over around the rest of the fingers. For a glove, however, each of the child’s fingers should fit into each of the fingers of the glove. If there is more than a pinch of fabric at the tips of the child’s fingers then the glove is too big. This can be tricky because the ratio of finger length is different on every child. Gloves are made based on a standard ratio of finger length and this may leave you with a well fit index finger but lots of floppy material left above the pinky finger. This extra material not only makes the glove challenging to negotiate but it also makes it hard to keep sensitive fingers warm as there is too much air space to ever warm up effectively. If this is a problem for your child have them try on several styles and brands as they all vary a bit.

Once you have a glove or mitten that seems to fit the length of the fingers check to make sure that the glove sits comfortably in the webbing between the fingers by placing your index finger between each of the child’s gloved fingers including the thumb and just between the thumb and index finger when fitting a mitten. Have them open their hands wide spreading their fingers. When properly fit the material will not push against your finger as they open their hands while a glove or mitten that is too small will force your finger out of the gap between their fingers. In a glove or mitten that is too small this ‘bridging’ is caused by there being too little fabric to move with the child. This restriction in movement can cause the hand to fatigue through the day causing cold, numb hands.

When you are confident that you have a glove or mitten that fits the finger length and fits well at the base of the fingers move to the back of the hand. To test the volume of the glove or mitten, pinch the fabric at the back of the hand. You should be able to pinch a bit each layer of the glove or mitten but not be able to pull it far from the hand. A glove or mitten that is too big in volume will not keep the hand warm because there is too much air to warm up effectively.

Most gloves and mittens have a bit of a break at their base as it transitions into the cuff. This break should hit right at the wrist as it helps to increase the mobility of the wrist. The cuff of the glove or mitten should not be too tight nor too loose around the child’s wrist. A cuff that is too tight will restrict the flow of warm blood to the fingers and a cuff that is too big will allow warm air to escape from around the child’s hand. Some gloves and mittens have a strap to cinch around the wrist for this reason – just make sure it isn’t cinched too tightly.

Hand wear is incredibly important to a successful day on the slopes because children don’t need to have cold hands to have a warm heart!

See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Mostly Toasty

2008-10-27T11:13:00.006-04:00

Layering for winter sports is an art. Part of being good at it is making sure the pieces all fit well on their own and as a unit. We have already addressed how the base layer should fit so now we can move on to the thermal layer. The thermal layer includes sweaters, fleece, fleece pants and vests. A child’s thermal layer may actually include more than one piece but for this discussion we will considered it as one layer.

Fleece tops and sweaters should fit essentially the same. They should have enough loft to take up some of the space within the jacket. Small spaces are easier to heat up so a sweater or fleece can help to break down any gaps within the jacket into several smaller spaces to be easily warmed. The neck of a sweater or fleece should be comfortable. Regardless of whether it is a turtleneck, scoop neck or v-neck comfort will be the key aspect of the fit and this will vary from child to child. Sleeve length is important since some sweaters and fleeces are bulky at the wrist. It is imperative that the cuff of the layering piece does not interfere with the fit of the jacket cuff. The shoulder seem of the sleeve should hit at the point of the child’s shoulder and there should be enough room under the armpit to pinch a bit of fabric. This is incredibly important because there is a major artery running down the inner part of the arm and if it is even slightly tight there it will impinge the flow of blood to the fingers and cause the child to be extremely cold. How the garments fit around this shoulder and underarm area is the most significant aspect of perceived comfort for a child. If they feel too bulky or constrained in this area they will feel uncomfortable and restricted in their movements. How the fleece or sweater fits around the torso is mostly personal preference. The cut of each piece will vary with style and it is ok to choose the style the child likes best but make sure the waistband fits well with the pants and the jacket. The layering pieces can either help or hurt the fit of the other pieces so it is important to check how they work together.

A vest is a great addition to layering pieces. It helps to keep the torso warm without adding bulk to that very sensitive arm/shoulder area. Vests should fit loosely around the arm area and the torso even with the other layers underneath. The waistband of a vest should not interfere with the fit of the pant or the jacket.

Fleece pants are like sweaters for your legs. The ‘tights’ style is the least bulky but if the child insists on the sweat-pant cut make sure that the length does not interfere with the fit of the boot or the cuff of the pant. In either case it is important that the waistband does not add so much bulk around the waist to cause discomfort under the outerwear pant. Pants should be snug without being tight. Any extra bulk in the rise may hinder the fit of the outerwear pant in the rise causing the waist to fit too low around the hips. If the pant is to be tucked into the boot it should have a thin, flat seem and should be worn over the sock for added shin protection.

When your child is getting ready before heading to the hill take a few extra minutes to help them adjust their layering pieces so they aren’t twisted up and so that the base layer pieces are in their proper places. Most fit problems for children come from the displacement of apparel pieces because of the friction that builds up as they get dressed. Properly fit and properly placed layering pieces will help to keep a child both warm and comfortable for a day on the slopes

The snow should be flying soon so...I'll see ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Waterproof/Breathable Fabrics

2008-10-24T14:47:00.004-04:00

I have been getting a lot of questions recently about waterproof/breathable fabrics - I will get into the subject in more detail in a future post but thought it might be helpful to see what I shared in Snowboarding Forum when asked about how weather protection is measured. Follow the full thread here.

Keep in mind that how dry you stay on the hill has to do with the fabrics and coatings used in your outerwear as well as what you layer with. Together they create a Moisture Management system to keep you dry in all conditions.

Until then .... See ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

The Icing On The Cake: Fitting Winter Accessories For Children

2008-10-20T13:40:00.002-04:00

No discussion on fitting winter wear is complete if it doesn’t touch on accessories. To simplify things I am considering accessories to be everything except outerwear – jackets, pants and suits. These are the pieces you layer with, add style with and ultimately moderate your body temperature with. Accessories are the final solution to all fit and warmth issues and should not be considered an after thought. A child can easily adjust their own body temperature by simply taking off their hat, adjusting their neck gaiter or removing their gloves for a while but will only work to keep the child warm and comfortable if they fit properly.

It is important to keep in mind that what matters most is how things fit together, not individually. Typically this is not a issue if you are putting a new outfit together and can choose from a wide range of sizes – it is more of a challenge when you are looking through your gear from year to year to see what still works and what your child has grown out of. Try items on together and judge how they work as a unit before making your final decision. Over the next few entries I will be sharing with you how to check each item on the Check List For The Slopes to make sure that your child is both comfortable and warm for a day on the hill.

We can start with the inner most layer called the base layer. The base layer includes socks and thermal underwear. It technically could include glove liners and helmet liners but I’ll save that for when we discuss the extras since these layers are not used in all conditions. Check to see that thermal underwear fits properly on its own first but keep in mind that other items will go over it. It should lay comfortably next to the skin without gapping or bunching nor should it feel tight or constrict the child’s range of motion. The sleeves should reach at least to the lower part of the forearm but not be so long as to hinder the fit of the sleeve or glove cuff. For thermal underwear bottoms the fit of the rise is most critical thing to consider, as a day on the slopes with a wedgie is no fun what-so-ever. The waistband should be able to stretch to fit 1-2 fingers and is definitely too small if it leaves deep marks in the skin around the belly. The length of the pant leg is also important because if it is too long it may interfere with the upper cuff of the boot but if it is too short it is not as big of an issue because a properly fitting sock should cover the area effectively. The pant cuff should come at least below the belly of the calf but no lower than the anklebone. How it fits with the sock and the boot will be the ultimate deciding factor on length.

The fit of the sock is critical because it affects the fit of the boot. The fit of the boot is critical because it affects the boots performance, warmth and comfort. While performance may not be as big of an issue for some children warmth and comfort most certainly are. Quality winter sports socks are shaped for a form fit that pads and protects while it enhances the fit of the boot so it is vital that it is neither too big nor too small which will cause miss alignment of the various darts and pads of the sock. These sport specific socks are manufactured with a flat seem, padded toe box for extra warmth around the toe area and for padded protection in an area that tends to take a great deal of abuse. The toe of the sock should fit up against the child’s toes without a lot of extra fabric. Extra fabric will bunch up and may cause blisters or bruising in the forefoot. The constructed heel should fit right at the child’s heel. If you can’t quite pull the sock up high enough for the heel to sit in the pocket it is too small. If, on the other hand, the heel pocket is up around the Achilles’ tendon the sock is too big. The sock should be long enough to come past the upper cuff of the boot and all skin below the knee should be covered either by the sock or the thermal underwear. The sock should not come above the knee. This is sometimes a challenge for pre teen boys because their feet often grow to adult proportions before the length of their leg catches up but take the time to find a properly fitting sock so they are comfortable through out the season.

Next we’ll talk about how to evaluate the fit of the thermal layers that go over the base layer. Until then I’ll see ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Fitting Children For Winter Sports Pants

2008-10-13T12:33:00.006-04:00

Fitting children for ski and snowboard pants is not nearly as difficult as fitting them for a jacket but is equally important to get a good fit. Layering properly is one of the corner stones of winter comfort. This is particularly true when it comes to layering under ski and snowboard pants. It isn’t even worth having a discussion about ski and snowboard pants without discussing the layers that should go under them. It is important to keep in mind that children are particularly susceptible to the discomfort of bulky layers. It is also important to remember that children do not develop the ability to sense cold properly until they are physically mature. This safety mechanism can cause problems for parents who hear their children say “I’m not cold!” when they really mean to say “Excuse me mother, the clothing you have chosen for me feels bulky and awkward and restricts my movement making me feel hindered and uncomfortable.” The key is to choose layers that provide warmth without bulk. It is important to have quality thermal underwear (no, cotton waffle weave underwear dose NOT count) and the option of a fleece pant to layer under an insulated pant. Shell pants should be reserved for teenagers and adults as even in the spring children can get quite cold even if you are overheated. Plus it is easier to decrease layers for the torso to maintain body temperature than it is to increase layers under a shell pant when it is cold.

To properly fit insulated winter pants it is not necessary to have the other layers on but do not try them on with street wear pants. Street wear pants will fit entirely differently under a ski or snowboard pant then any thermal layers will. It is better to try the insulated pants on with regular underwear, if the pant fits properly there will be plenty of room for thermal underwear and a typical fleece pant.

With the pant on there should be 1 to 2 fingers space around the waist regardless of the style of pant. Some styles have Velcro or snap side size adjusters. This feature is worth its weight in gold as it will help to accommodate a variety of layering options. The pant should fall loosely around the buttocks and thighs without being baggy and there should be room in the rise to pinch about and inch of fabric. The length of the pant is critical as if it is too short you will not get much time out of it but if it is too long it will be damaged possibly beyond repair. The cuff should hit just below the anklebone without hitting the ground. If the pant is a bib or suspender pant make sure that the straps can be adjusted for maximum comfort in the rise and the appropriate length in the leg. Many children’s pants come with grow cuffs which, when released will give as much as 1 – 2 inches more length but you don’t want to buy a pant knowing you have to release the cuff right away. Some pant styles can be easily taken up to be let down later but this should be done by a tailor experienced with skiwear as working with performance fabrics presents unique challenges.

There have been so many advances in fabrics and insulation that gone are the days when your little one has to be round as a snowball to be warm. Invest in a quality pant with a good fit, reduce bulk by layering with thermal underwear and/or a fleece pant depending on the weather and your child will have enough freedom of movement to generate the heat they need to stay warm on the hill.

See ya out there!

Kjerstin

Fitting Children: Winter Sports Jackets

2008-10-07T16:09:00.002-04:00

As we continue to explore fitting children for winter wear we need to look at how to check the fit of a garment once you have found something you like. Checking the fit of a jacket for a child is easy when you break it down into the key components. Keep in mind that if any single one of these components isn’t right it simply isn’t the jacket for the child – it will always be something you settled for instead of a quality fit that will perform on the slopes.

The first step is to put the jacket on and zip it all the way up. Yes, all the way to where the zipper ends. You need to be able to check how tight the neck is because this varies greatly. It also changes the way the jacket fits across the chest and back. You may get an immediate “I don’t like it!” but don’t ditch it for good, they may change their mind when they realize that all of the jackets have that feeling when zipped all the way up – when they are warm and cozy in the store it is hard to imagine that they may want it zipped all the way up in the dead of winter. With the jacket zipped all the way up check the neck, especially the base of the neck where the chest of the jacket is sewn to the collar. Make sure that there is a little bit of space so it is comfortable and there is no constriction. There shouldn’t be too much of a gap though. While some space can be taken up by a neck gaiter a jacket that is too big around the neck will let all the warm air from around the body escape.

To check the fit across the chest and back try to take a handful of fabric into your hands just behind the shoulders. If you can get two good handfuls of fabric and pull the jacket away from the child’s body then it is way too big. If you can’t do more than pinch a bit of fabric it is too small. Too much space in this area of the jacket will interfere with the child’s ability to warm up the air space around their body. Jackets work much like a wet suit, holding air instead of water. What keeps a wetsuit warm is the water that is trapped inside is warmed by body heat and then stays at a constant temperature. A jacket that is too big has too much air to warm effectively so cold air constantly re-circulates around the body. If the jacket is too small there is not enough warm air trapped to keep the body warm.

Next check the waistband. The length of a jacket should be dictated by the style of pant the child will be wearing with it. The key is to make sure that there is no skin exposure. The waistband must come well below the waistband of the pant. It is also important to make sure there is not too much space or any gaps around the waist. Most jackets have a cord that can tighten the waistband snugly around the body. This will help warm air from escaping.

The sleeves of the jacket are the key to both comfort and longevity. Most companies add features like Grow-Cuffs and Velcro adjustable cuffs to aid in properly fitting children through a growth cycle. Grow-Cuffs are a specially designed internal hem that can be released to gain another 1-2 inches in length in the sleeve when necessary. The Velcro adjustable cuffs can make a sleeve that is on the long side fit comfortably by tightening it down in place on the wrist instead of allowing it to hang low over the fingers. A sleeve that fits well should provide for a full range of movement and be free of both bulk and constrictions. Proper sleeve length is just below the break in the wrist but no longer than the base of the thumb. There must be no skin showing between the sleeve and the glove and the cuff must not be too loose or too tight. If the sleeve is too long it will hang down over the glove or material will bulk up around the arm and be very uncomfortable and, like around the torso, hold too much air to warm effectively.

Always keep in mind that the jacket will feel different over school clothes then over winter layers so try the jacket on over different pieces to get a good feel for how it will fit in a variety of conditions.

So in summary - Too much space around the body means that the air can’t be warmed up enough to keep the child warm. Too little space means there isn’t enough air to warm up to keep the child warm. Gaps cause warm air to leak out; cold air replaces it and will make the child cold. Body heat is lost through exposed skin so make sure the jacket covers everything. Check the neck for gaps and constriction, check the chest and back for proper amount of space, check the waistband for gaps or constriction, check the sleeve length, it should hit just below the break of the wrist but not past the base of the thumb. The sleeve should allow for easy range of motion with no constriction or bulk.

See? You are an expert already!

See ya on the slopes,

Kjerstin

Snow Sport Sizes For Children

2008-09-29T13:17:00.005-04:00

Wow! I was a bit surprised by how much activity my Tokidoki blog generated! Well I’m glad so many of you had a chance to check it out…I think we still have some left for those of you who haven’t taken a look yet. I’ll be sure to post some more notes when I see stuff that I think will really get you charged. If you need ideas for yourself or gifts always feel free to e-mail me and I’ll help you to find just the right thing.

Anyway, I guess we can continue our exploration of the topic of sizing children. First off, for our purposes regardless of actual age we will consider Infants to be up to size 2, Toddlers or Preschoolers up to size 5 and size 6 to 20 as Juniors or Youth. It is important to remember that each company has its own range of sizes. Obermeyer, for example, makes Preschool sizes from size 1 to size 8 and Juniors sizes from size 6 to size 18. I’m sure you are asking why the overlap? Well, Preschool sizes tend to be broader and shorter limbed then their Junior counter parts but the biggest reason is style. There are some preschool and junior kids that prefer a more youthful look that need bigger sizes. On the flip side there are some children who prefer the teen styles but still need the small sizes. It is about offering choices as much as it is about trying to accommodate those challenging size ranges.

I have to admit; very few companies offer such a wide range of sizes. Most ski companies do not offer anything below a size 3 and even the 3’s are often hard to come by. Most companies, if they even carry Preschool sizes, only manufacture sizes 3-5 and the selection is fairly limited. Sizes in the toddler and preschool range might be labeled with the traditional street wear marker ‘T’ before the size, therefore written as T3, T4 and T5. Where things get confusing is in the lettered sizes. The sizes become far more difficult to decipher. Each company determines their size breakdowns differently but typically they will be labeled Preschool or Toddler, Junior or Youth above the letter size. While there are variations typically toddler/preschool letter sizes are XS = sizes 1-2, S= size 3, M= sizes 4-5, L= sizes 6-7 and XL= size 8. Junior/youth breaks down as XS= size 5, S= sizes 6-8, M= sizes 10-12, L= sizes 14-16 and XL= sizes 18-20. A few companies also offer the 6X size, which is a good transition size for those tall and lean little ones since it is essentially the same as a 6 only longer limbed and a bit longer in the rise. If a 6X is offered it typically is a Junior or Youth size S, the regular 6 is then scaled back to an XS. Some companies will size all of their children’s wear on one size grid including sizes 1-20. In this case an XXS= sizes 1-2, XS= sizes 3-4, S= sizes 5-6, M= sizes 7-8, L= sizes 10-12, XL= sizes 14-16 and XXL= sizes 18-20.

It would be nice if the industry could come up with some sort of standard but that might be a long time in coming. Most companies have size grids available and at Ski Warehouse and The Jib Shop there is always someone available by phone or e-mail to help you determine the correct size. Oddly enough it sounds far more confusing then it is in reality. Any overlap in sizes merely gives you more choices. The key is to pay attention to whether the garment is sized on a Toddler/Preschool size grid or a Junior/Youth size grid and pay attention to the size breakdown of the lettered sizes.

Now that you have a better understanding of the sizes offered in the snow sport industry we can discuss how to determine if a garment really fits your little grom!

Until then, see ya on the slopes!

Kjerstin

Tokidoki

2008-09-25T09:37:00.017-04:00

OK, I know I promised to continue our discussion on sizing up and fitting children but I have to interrupt that line of thought for a moment. Not being in the warehouse much this summer I didn't get to see everything as it came in. I knew we had some really great stuff coming in from Ride and saw on the reports that some of it was already selling really well. This is a busy time of year and to be honest I really didn't think much of it but when I saw there was a Ride re-order coming off of the truck I had to ask why we were already getting delivery on a re-order instead of selling what we have.

"This stuff is so awesome!" is the answer I got - and I expected it. Each year someone falls in love with at least one product and that is all they want to sell all year. When I saw the packing list though my memories started to flood back - it was a second order of the Ride Tokidoki collection - and yes it is awesome. Frankly I'd forgotten about it. It was a no-brainer easy buy because I knew it would sell and both our hard goods and soft goods snowboard buyers loved it and they rarely agree on anything.

At any rate the entire collection is incredible. It is fun, lively and top-of-the line technology. The project is a collaboration between Ride's technical team and the artist Simone Legno. Tokidoki means 'sometimes' in Japanese and was chosen by Legno because of his love for Japanese culture and the way in which the word symbolizes the magical quality that is found when serendipity, chance, hope and destiny mingle in our daily lives.

So the fun thing is how the project all came together. The collection includes a jacket, which comes in two colorways and includes a pair of Tokidoki knit fingerless gloves, a pant, also in two color ways and comes with a pair of limited edition Tokidoki riding socks, a boot, a binding and a board. It's fun, it's edgy and it has the technology behind it to make for a great day on the hill.

Fitting Children: Snow Sport Sizes Are Different

2008-09-15T12:51:00.004-04:00

This installment of Fitting Children may seem a bit off topic but in the process of sorting out my thoughts about fitting children for ski and snowboard wear I realized that it might be important to have a conversation about sizing and the snow sport industry. One of the most important things you need to know is that ski and snowboard wear works off of an old standard size grid. You don't really need a history lesson in garment sizing so I won't go into too much detail. So, sticking to the basics… because there has been so much size inflation in the ready-to-wear market (stuff you buy at the mall) you may find that you run a size, maybe two sizes larger in ski or snowboard wear. This is not because they run small; it is because they work off of a different grid. The dimensions used to calculate a size 6 in ski and snowboard wear are not the same as the dimensions used to calculate a size 6 in ready-to-wear. These dimension vary the most in women's wear but wide variations can be found in men's and children's wear as well. Kids could care less. To them a size is just a number and they love the idea that they are growing and getting bigger is a good thing.

The other difference between snow sports wear and ready-to-wear is there is very little size disparity. Meaning a 12, is a 12, is a 12. When I shop in the mall I sometimes have to try on 3 or 4 of the same size to find just the right fit. The reason for this is that the factory cuts many pieces of fabric at the same time. Layers and layers of fabric are stacked up together and cut with a big machine all at once. While this may be faster and time efficiency saves money it makes for a wide variation in sizes. As the machine pushes down on the pile of fabric the fabric stretches at a different rate depending on where it is in the pile. Ski and snowboard wear doesn't have this problem because the production rate is so much smaller – they simply don't have to cut as many so they don't stack as many. Even if production was high enough to warrant large stacks the high performance fabrics used in the snow sport industry must be treated differently and therefore cannot be stacked and cut in bulk like ready-to-wear goods.

So how can you tell what size your child will take? As a rule of thumb when you are starting your garment search start with sizes that are one number higher than the child's age. So your average 11 year old will typically fit in a size 12. In my next entry I will discuss what sizes are available for children in the snow sport industry and what to do about those in-between kids.

See ya there or on the slopes!

Kjerstin

If They Don't Like It They Won't Wear It!

2008-09-10T16:46:00.004-04:00

Fitting a child for ski and snowboard wear is unique because it combines the need for performance with the need of the individual to express themselves. Even at a very young age children have a self-image and should be encouraged to explore it. I remember my very articulate 2-year-old son, looking at the Pooh outfit I’d pulled for him to wear that day and retorting “I’m not wearing that, I look like a dork.” The fact is that performance winter wear is not like a Pooh outfit because once you buy it – you’re stuck with it for a while, it’s not like you have another just hanging in the closet. It is therefore imperative that you take the childes concerns and opinions into account when choosing ski and snowboard apparel. Depending on the age of the child this can be done in several ways. For very young children have them look at several items that are on their needs list. Narrow it down to the ones you feel you could live with and allow them to choose. The younger they are the fewer choices they should have. 2-3 options are usually effective for most kids. Once you have given them the choice do not try to talk them out of it. This will undo all the good you have done by teaching them that even though they have opinions those opinions are somehow wrong or flawed.

For older children give them specific criteria that their purchase must meet for you to approve it. The help them through the process but stand back and allow them to do as much of it as possible – be there for assistance and a sounding board only. The criteria you use may vary depending on what it is they are buying but should include:

1. A Dollar Limit (but allow them to put their own money towards more expensive items if they choose)

2. Proper Fit

3. Must Include the Designated Items on the Checklist

4. Must Fit Into Your Investment Plan (See 2007 entries on Investment Buying)

5. Color Restrictions (if you have anything that nauseates you make sure it is off the list!)

6. Logo Restrictions (many companies have logos, pictures and statements that you may find offensive or inappropriate)

Once you have outlined your requirements let them go from there and again, support them in their decisions – this is an important life lesson that will aid in their decision-making skills in all areas of their life. The key is to be ok with whatever the child chooses (as long as it meets the pre-stated criteria). The number one thing to remember is that no matter how well a garment fits, if the child doesn’t like it they won’t wear it!

2008-09-08T10:27:00.001-04:00

As I help people prepare for the coming season the number one question I get is how to fit children. Even if the child is there to try the merchandise on it is often hard for the untrained eye to determine if gear fits well enough to meet the performance needs while still being big enough to get fit for two seasons. Two seasons may seem an optimistic dream but is often quite doable if the child is fit properly and doesn’t go through an abnormal growth spurt.

Over the next few entries I will try to walk you through the basic concepts of fit as well as the specific concerns that need to be addressed when fitting a child. Hopefully it will answer all of your questions but if not feel free to post questions in the comments area and I will address them as soon as possible.

See ya on the slopes!

Kjersitn

Prepare In Advance For The Upcoming Season

2008-09-04T16:57:00.003-04:00

I walked my kids home from school today and it was 95 degrees. Now I realize that eventually I will have to go to the mall and buy some long sleeve t-shirts, pants, tights and the like but it just seems so remote I’m just not ready to jump in to that yet. Getting ready for the slopes, however is another story! I am already done for that. I have bins carefully labeled for each family member. Last year at the end of the season I cleaned and folded all of our gear into our bins. Had some stuff repaired, pulled out those things that no longer fit and made a list for each person as to what they needed. Over the summer I filled each persons list and carefully packed the items into their bin – come first snowfall we are ready to rally!

Now I realize that working for a ski and snowboard shop means that I have summer access to goods that others might not but keep in mind that our busiest time, the time I don’t have time to get my family ready is the time that you are trying to get your family together. So yes, I may be ahead of you time-wise but my time is over and yours is just starting. Don’t wait though, now is the time to hit the big pre season sales and catch all of the newest stuff. Ski shops aren’t like the mall stores, there is limited inventory and once it is gone it is gone. Look over the Needs Check List and review the steps for Investment Buying (Snow Deva 2007) and pull what you need together in advance because if the snow comes early you want to be able to just pick up and go and if the slopes open during the holidays you don’t want to compromise your party time by having to wash your sweaters!

Pre Season Sale is a Wrap

2008-09-02T14:49:00.004-04:00

So the Willi's Labor Day Pre Season Sale has wrapped up in Pittsburgh for another year. I left tear down at the Greentree Sportsplex just before they cleared out the last few bits and pieces to be packed away for another year. I hear tear down at the Expomart is going equally fast.

If you missed it this year don’t worry – we have lots of great stuff in the store and there is still the Pre Season Sale up at Seven Springs October 4th and 5th. This is a great sale because there is so much going on up at the resort. We’ll be setting up in the store instead of the convention hall this year so that will make us closer to some of the festivities. It will be interesting for sure!

Hope to see you there or on the slopes,

Kjerstin

Pre Season Sale Set Up Going Well

2008-08-29T16:43:00.005-04:00

The Sale set up here at the Greentree Sports Complex is going well. It is Wednesday at 2:00 and we are over 1/2 way done. Tomorrow we have to do this all over again on the other side of the city in the Monroeville Expomart. Friday will be saved for the loose ends and last minute details before we open at 9:00 am on Saturday.

Hope to see you there!

Kjersin

Pre Season Sale '08

2008-08-29T16:22:00.005-04:00

Since I work from home, sitting alone at a computer for most of my work getting a chance to get out and really work and be with people is actually fun for me. I only got to unload boxes for a couple couple of hours each day but the team we have setting up the sale this year has been working like dogs. Now, Friday afternoon we are just about to lock the doors to open at 9:00 tomorrow moring for the annual Labor Day Pre-Season Sale.

The Sale weekend is one of my favorites weekends. Everyone, staff, reps and customers are all so excited for the coming season. It is as much a social gathering as a foraging expedition. The biggest problem is that with that much merchandise and confusion you can walk out with stuff you don't need and forgetting what you do need. The key is to have a list and a plan before you walk in. If you spend a little time thinking about what you need (see my previous entries about investment buying) you will be prepared when the snow flies - hopefully it will be early this season.

Hope to see you at the sale or on the slopes!

Kjerstin

DNA: A Fun Company with Great Product

2008-07-10T15:15:00.002-04:00

Having the DNA Evolution Tour here in Pittsburgh was a great treat. Everyone had a blast. It was incredible to see what the competitors could do. Check out the Photo Gallery. The guys from DNA went all out – worked all day coaching the riders giving tips and advice then put on a great show throughout the competition. It really got me dreaming of winter! Not only are they a fun company to work with but they have great gear to back it up. I just finished writing the product descriptions for their streetwear collection and the 2008-09 snow collection, it all looks great. Check it out at The Jib Shop.

Mid Jam Update

2008-06-18T15:35:00.005-04:00

We are wrapping up the warmup portion of the competition. Everyone is having a great time and traffic is backed up past the Castle Tavern - Rubber neckers are great. We got a wonderful visit from pro Kristi Leskinen and the finals start tonight at 7:00. Check out the pix so far.

Willi's Ski Shop Rail Jam

2008-06-18T07:40:00.002-04:00

Rarely do I get the chance to get excited about skiing in the summer but today is different. There is a decidedly unsummer like chill in the air and Willi's Ski Shop is hosting the DNA EVOLUTION TOUR Rail Jam in the parking lot of their South Hill shop. (directions to Willi's South Hills shop) Pittsburgh is the eastern most stop for the Tour and excitement is at a fever pitch. Set up went well last night and we are all excited for a great day!

Investment Buying: Treats and Extras

2007-10-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

Once you get the hang of the Investment Buying technique and you have built your base (September 1, 2007), added some pieces to improve your wardrobe and equipment flexibility (September 24, 2007) it time to have some real fun. The third phase of Investment Buying is where you get to be a bit less practical and dash the slopes with your own style.

While ALL ski and snowboard gear is ‘practical’ in the sense that it serves some functional purpose the Treats and Extras tend to be items that are useful in rare conditions or are fashion forward pieces that will look dated sooner rather than later. Some people will spend more money in this category than others but even the most frugal enthusiasts should put a few items from this category on their list. For one thing they make great gift list items. Gift givers have far more fun picking out some splashy fashion then boring old black ski or snowboard pants. This is also the category where apres slope wear pieces should be listed. While an old pair of sweat pants is fine to drive home in, snow specific after slope wear often has special features designed with the end of a day on the hill in mind and is therefore far more comfortable, far more attractive and doubles as lifestyle pieces for everyday wear.

When making choice in the Treats and Extras category the key is to ‘treat’ yourself to ‘extras’. The idea is to add to your gear and apparel those items that really improve your performance, embellishes your wardrobe or items you may not use as often but are perfect when you do. Ski Blades or powder skis are a good example of equipment treats/extras. A great powder day can turn into an EPIC powder day on just the right pair of skis. On a day when the weather isn’t cooperating the hill can still be fun on a pair of ski blades – they are perfect for zipping around if you are skiing with kids or if you are on the hill for a festival or event. By the time you are ready to invest in extras your boots may no longer meet your performance needs. This is the perfect time to start shopping around for a great boot, set it up with custom footbeds and really ramp up your on slope performance. Apparel extras will help keep your slope wardrobe up-to-date with the current fashions while providing you additional flexibility for rare or extreme conditions. A heavy down coat is a perfect example of an Extra as it is most useful in only the very coldest of conditions or light weight gloves that are really only useful on warm spring days. A fashion forward shell with bold colors is a great example of a Treat as it will surely add personality to your snow wardrobe but you may tire of it sooner than a more neutral basic. As I have said already there are many examples of great après slope wear that would fit into the treat category as well. Great sweaters and fun fleeces may fall into this category as well as special pants and logo sweatshirts and tee’s.

So the Investment Buying steps outlined so far are 1. Building Your Base, where you acquire the most basic equipment and apparel to get you on the slopes, 2. Stage II Buying, where you start to build on that base to increase your extreme weather options and improve your base equipment performance, 3. Treats and Extras, where you really let your personality shine by embellishing your wardrobe with fashion forward pieces, add those rarely used but important pieces and crank up your equipment performance and/or options. Next time we will discuss how to maintain your investment with proper care and planned replacement of worn out items.

Stage II of your Winter Sports Investment Buying Plan

2007-09-24T22:57:00.000-04:00

Buying ski and snowboard equipment and apparel wisely will save you money and ensure that you are well prepared for the slopes. The technique of Investment Buying is not a difficult skill to master. It only takes a little planning and organization. The first step is to create a base of essential clothing and equipment that will cover you for most days on the hill (see September 1, 2007). Once you have the base of your Investment Buy addressed you are ready for Stage II. While Stage II is a chance to let your fashion sense and personality shine through its primary purpose is to increase your flexibility to address varying weather conditions while increasing the performance of your gear.

When making Stage II clothing choices err on the conservative side but allow yourself the fun of purchasing something you truly fall in love with. Keep colors consistent and focus on increasing your apparel options for extreme conditions. The number one item to put on your Stage II list is a down vest. It is the perfect layering option for extremely cold conditions as it concentrates warmth around your core without adding bulk to the arms. It also plays an essential role in warmer conditions as, worn alone, it leaves the arms to breath while providing adequate protection to the vital organs. A heavy hat, additional hand wear (e.g. gloves or mittens depending on what you already have), a shell jacket, shell pants or a suit all increase your choices in varying weather conditions. Additional sets of long underwear and socks are also good things to add when you are making Stage II decisions.

By the time you are ready to work on Stage II of your investment buy your skis or snowboard and boots are still fairly new so I would make the jump from aluminum poles to a good carbon fiber or graphite pole. Go to http://www.thejibshop.com/Ski-Poles-C497.aspx for a great selection of high-end poles. Quality poles will improve the integration of your upper and lower body movement by quieting the movement of your arms so the torso can interact fluidly with the hips and legs.

Depending on your budget the process of Stage II Investment Buying may overlap with Building Your Base. The key thing is to start a list and make sure that it is made public before the holidays so anyone who may be hunting for a great gift for you knows what you want. Even if you don’t get everything on your list it will serve well as a guide when you have an extra bit of money to invest in your favorite winter sport.
So the Investment Buying steps outlined so far are 1. Building Your Base, where you acquire the most basic equipment and apparel to get you on the slopes and 2. Stage II Buying, where you start to build on that base to increase your extreme weather options and improve your base equipment performance. Next time we will discuss how to really let your personality shine when we embellish your wardrobe with fashion forward pieces and crank up your equipments performance with Stage III of our Winter Sports Investment Buying Plan.

Investment Buying For The Slopes

2007-09-10T14:51:00.000-04:00

As the days cool down and anticipation builds for the winter season I want to start doing the things that will help me to have a great time on the hill. Getting set for the slopes is at least part of the fun but it also serves the very useful purpose of reducing stress in your life. If the snow flies early that frantic rush for first tracks can bleed all the fun out of it – especially if you are a busy mother with more than one kid to get ready. The key is to have a plan. Since I see winter sports as being an investment in my family I call it an Investment Plan. Like any good investment you don’t buy up all you think you’ll need all at once, that can be a foolish use of money at best, the key is to buy what you need to create a base and then build from there. An investment-buying plan for winter sports gear works on the same concept. I would suggest using a file folder or notebook with a small pocket to keep notes and papers as you go. Your file or notebook will serve as a good reference guide for you and help you to keep everything in one place.

When you start an investment-buying plan it is important to start at the beginning. Everyone needs a base or foundation on which to build. This base typically starts with a few clothing items and the basic equipment. If you simply aren’t ready to invest in the equipment yet it can be rented but a good pre season sale often has such great deals that it is hardly worth the aggravation of having to wait in line to use someone else’s gear. The one exception to this is children’s gear. Most reputable shops have junior buy back programs where you can rent new or used skis and boots and the shop will buy them back at the end of the season for a guaranteed price. (For an example of one of the best junior programs see http://www.willisskiandboard.com/ and look on the left side bar for Junior Boot Program). For our purposes I will be including value-based suggestions for equipment in the base and you can judge for yourself where you think it is appropriate to jump on that train.

Your base should include items that will broadly cover most needs for that category. Items that cover many needs typically don’t cover them all perfectly but then again, they are part of your base – specialized items will come later in the investment. For a great overview of what you need to hit the slopes see http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/90554/your_ski_and_snowboard_checklist_for.html.

When you invest in equipment your boots are the most important place to start. Warmth, comfort and performance on the slopes all starts with your feet so take your time to get the right boot with the proper fit. The ski or snowboard you invest in should fit in the all-mountain category. This will allow you to be confident anywhere on your local hill as well as where ever you may travel. The ski or board you choose will probably dictate the binding you buy so that should not be a challenging decision. If there is more than one to choose from make sure to choose the one that provides the most flexibility. If you are a skier you will need poles. For your base a basic pair of aluminum poles will do but as you upgrade your equipment carbon fiber or graphite poles should top your list.

The basic clothing you need to invest in will include a winter jacket, ski pants, a sweater or a fleece, thermal underwear and socks, gloves and a hat. While that may sound like a lot it is rather simple to procure. First of all if you live anywhere north of the Mason-Dixon line you probably need a winter jacket. Yes, a good quality ski or snowboard jacket is best because they are significantly different than other jackets. They will last longer, stay warmer and have features that make hitting the slopes more convenient. When buying your jacket buy something you love. For your investment plan this is the one piece that will be with you the longest so make sure you really like it and you aren’t just settling for something. Pants are another deal. Basic black or a neutral color is all we are looking for here. I suggest sticking with black because, well, everything goes with black and it won’t age as rapidly as a light, neutral color. I suggest buying an insulated pant for your first pair because I find that keeping warm is a bigger issue than cooling off. If you are one of the rare people that simply never gets cold then fine, a shell pant will work but make sure you buy top quality thermal underwear to layer with. For your initial investment a sweater or fleece you have in your collection may work. Make sure that whatever you use is primarily wool or acrylic. Wool is a great insulator, breaths very well and stays warm even if it gets wet. Acrylic, while not as warm as wool is also a good insulator and will retain its thermal capacity when wet. Fleece is an engineered hollow core acrylic fabric and has an increased thermal capacity because warm air is trapped inside the fibers themselves. Your run-of-the-mill mall store fleece is not a hollow core fabric so don’t be fooled. It is imperative that you do not layer with cotton, we wear cotton in the summer to dissipate heat, it does not save heat. So no favorite college sweatshirts or t-shirts allowed on the slopes. This goes for hats, thermal underwear and socks as well. Your base should include a warm hat, one pair of good quality thermal underwear and at least one pair of fitted ski or snowboard specific socks. Sport specific socks are designed to enhance the fit of your boot creating a coupling effect and increasing your on-slope performance. Whether you choose gloves or mittens for your base hand gear is a personal preference. As you build your winter wardrobe I suggest including both but for now one will do. Mittens are warmer because they keep all of your fingers together allowing warm air to circulate easily from the palm of the hand to each finger. With this said most people choose to wear gloves – I’m not sure why but they feel like they have more dexterity. If you choose gloves and find that you are not warm enough chemical heat packs work great.

This should help you to create your initial shopping list. Make sure you have in your file or notebook a list of each family member, their current sizes, height, weight, age and skiing ability as well as their favorite colors or styles. Under each person name make a list of what they have and what they need or needs to be replaced to create their base. Visit http://www.skiwarehouse.com/ or http://www.thejibshop.com/ for great on-line deals and check back here because in the future we will talk about how to effectively add to your base investment to create an up-to-date, flexible winter sports wardrobe.

Pre Season ToDo List

2007-08-31T14:26:00.000-04:00

Now that the kids are back in school I find myself more motivated to get organized. As I do every year at this time I start to plan the year so that the things that are important to me don’t get overlooked. This is the time of year that I sit down with a pad of paper and a calendar and focus on when and where we are going to ski this year.

Planning ski trips is the most fun part of getting organized for this time of year but there are many more issues that need to be addressed so the season goes smoothly. Proper planning will save you time, money and make the season more enjoyable overall. To ensure a fun season on the slopes use this handy pre season ToDo list. Add your own notes and build on it to keep for the start of each season. When you realize how easy hitting the slopes can be you will thank yourself!

Make a Ski/Snowboard Budget
Skiing and snowboarding are often viewed as expensive sports but after I saw what my neighbor pays for her son to play hockey I think it’s quiet a bargain! It can actually be quite a value if you plan carefully and make a budget in advance then look for creative ways to stay within that budget. Your budget should take into account everything you will spend to ski or snowboard including clothing, travel, accommodations, tickets and food. Include it in the budget even if it is something like winter clothing that you will use for other things or food that you would be eating anyway even if you weren’t on the mountain.

Check Old Gear
The beginning of each pre season should start with going through your old equipment and clothing to see what needs to be cleaned, repaired or replaced. The earlier you do it the better prepared you will be for your local pre season sale. Keep in mind bargain shopping will help you keep within your budget!

Check Your Calendar
Planning weekend getaways and trips can be tricky with today’s busy schedules. Make sure to look at school, work and activity schedules and pencil in a few ski dates right away so that the time isn’t taken up by some other less important event.

Talk To Friends And Family
Coordinating calendars can be very difficult but it is worth asking around to see if anyone is interested in hitting the slopes with you. Traveling with larger groups can also bring costs down to help you fit within your budget.

Plan Trips
Trips large or small require some advance planning. Start the day dreaming early so that you have some idea of when and where you want to go. Early planning will help you to make travel arrangements that satisfy your needs.

Start Your Preseason Training
Regardless of your level of fitness everyone can benefit from some extra pre slope training.

Racers
Ski and snowboard racers have got to be prepared for the season early. Make sure you have joined the USSA and other necessary associations. Get your race schedule so you can plan other activities and trips around them. Talk to your fellow racers for carpool and training partners and follow the rest of the ToDo list to ensure that you are in shape and have the gear you need to have a winning season.

Anticipating Winter

2007-08-03T20:53:00.000-04:00

About this time every summer I start to feel the pangs of anticipation for my favorite time of year. One may think that August is a bit early to start yearning for snow but there is a lot to think about – and for the winter enthusiast that is part of the fun.

My ruminations regarding the coming season are usually triggered by a desire to escape from the often-oppressive summer heat. My minds eye finds me swooshing down a freshly powdered slope and sooner or later my more practical side wants to get into the game and I begin making mental notes about what my family and I will need for the coming season – this mental list of new fleeces and socks, sweaters and pants serves me well as a check list for the local pre season sale and our on line wish list.

I also start thinking about how we will juggle family obligations while I contemplate our weekend ski trips and mid winter getaway so we have a clear calendar and I can score great accommodations.

Ultimately, however, the most of my daydreaming is spent on how I am going to improve this year. I think about my pre season fitness plan and the new products that will make this year even better than the last.

The truth is that just THINKING about the season gives me a chill – and it is the best way to cool off on a hot summer day.