If you are looking for a new, fun hobby to take up this winter, and you have never skied before, there is no better time than now to get into it! While skiing is exciting, it can feel like a daunting and overwhelming activity for a beginner on the slopes.

For many people, when skiing for the first time, they can experience a lot of shaking, swerving, and falling due to their nerves. For beginner skiers, unfortunately, there is no “easy” way to get the hang of it, other than continuing to do it!

Check out some tips for beginner skiers:

Invest in goggles and a helmet but rent the rest of the gear.

In terms of what you will need on the slopes, make sure that you invest in goggles and a helmet to ensure that you are safe and protected throughout the day.

The goggles are important to keep on while you are skiing so that you avoid any snow or other debris flying into your eyes, especially if you are skiing during a time where artificial snow is being blown onto the slopes. For many goggles, depending on the style and brand you choose, you will find that they are UV resistant as well, so you are protecting your eyes and face during a sunny day.

For a helmet, this is absolutely vital to keep on your head while you are skiing, so you are fully protected each time that you fall. If you are not able to find a helmet ahead of time, they are usually available for rent at many ski resorts.

For all other gear and equipment, such as skis and boots, consider renting until you have some more experience under your belt, given how expensive gear and equipment can be!

Pack clothing that is waterproof and will keep you warm.

Make sure that you check the weather ahead of time so that you are properly prepared with the right clothing to stay safe and comfortable throughout the day.

It is very important that you are ensuring that the clothing that you are packing is thick enough to keep you warm, waterproof (especially your pants and coat), and that you are remembering to wear layers.

For brands of outerwear that are high-quality and will provide exactly what you are looking for on the slopes, consider Columbia or Helly Hansen, which offer waterproof, insulated options that feature pockets as well.

Start somewhere that is beginner friendly.

Since you will just be starting out, make sure that you are choosing to visit a ski resort that will be friendly to a beginner on the slopes. If you are not sure how to tell if the ski resort is friendly for a beginner or not, check to see if they feature bunny hills, or “green” trails, that will be easier for you to get yourself used to. Many beginner-friendly ski resorts also offer the opportunity for lessons.

Consider taking lessons.

Lessons are a great way to learn how to ski, and to improve your skills, even if you are just a beginner! As mentioned, many ski resorts offer the opportunity for lessons, whether you choose to take a group or an individual lesson.

Taking lessons is an awesome way to learn the ropes, get the basics down, and have support the whole time! And, if you have the time, you can plan to book a few sessions of lessons, so that you can watch yourself improve over time. Remember, practicing skiing makes perfect!