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Skiing Tips for Beginners, Intermediates, and Experts

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Skiing Tips for Beginners, Intermediates, and Experts

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If you’re anything like us, you’re always looking to improve on the mountain. And since it’s the start of a new year, there’s no better time to start levelling up. After all, better technique only leads to a higher quality of shredding and more of it for that matter. Floating through untouched powder on a crisp, bluebird day is one of the greatest feelings ever. To help you make the most of your time on the hill and develop your passion, here are some skiing tips for beginners, intermediates and experts!

For everyone…

Protect your skin – from the sun, wind and cold! Snow reflects the suns rays which is great for tanning but can also lead to a nasty burn and also skin damage. Cover up and layer on sunscreen that protects against all the elements.

Dress Code – You’re going to want to regulate your body temperature as well as stay dry. It is best to check the weather forecast every morning before you get dressed to make sure you have adequate layers and pack the right goggle lens for the light that day.

For Beginners…

Moving your skis – News flash, your skis are attached to your boots which should be on your feet. So if you turn your foot to the right then your ski will also turn to the right. It may seem that simple, but it will take some practice and getting used to.

For Intermediates…

Upper Body – Move your feet to turn your skis not your shoulders. Skis are fixed to your feet not arms so swinging your shoulders won’t turn your skis any faster and can throw your balance off.

Edging – Use your edges on your skis to gain control and for easier and sharper turns! To use your edges, simply roll your ankles and knees uphill as you flex down towards the end of the turn. This should roll your skis on to edge, giving you more grip.

For Experts…

Weight Distribution – Try to keep your weight central and evenly distributed across both skis. There is more resistance in powder, so you have to steer both skis through it – putting all your weight on the downhill ski (as you should on the piste!) gives your uphill ski the chance to trip you up in powder.

What’s Next…

Outfit yourself with the latest gear from McCoo’s so that you can enjoy your time on the mountain and work on your turns, pizzas, and of course, après!

10 New Year’s Resolutions For Skiers And Snowboarders

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10 New Year’s Resolutions For Skiers And Snowboarders

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Can you believe that 2020 is only days away? While many are writing down resolutions of eating right and exercising more, we’re using this time to day dream about all of the things we can achieve while in the mountains. And the first thing that comes to mind is more skiing and snowboarding! But we can do better than that. From getting up earlier to branching out to other ski resorts, here are 10 New Year’s resolutions for skiers and snowboarders.

Wake Up For Powder Days

If only there were endless powder days. Since there are only limited amount per season, we’re going to commit to waking up and enjoying every single one that we can!

Ski Your Bucket List

Life’s too short and so is the ski season. Make the time to get out and experience other resorts.

Get Fit For Skiing And Snowboarding

Hit the gym and train for your sport. Trust us, your legs will thank you and you’ll find it much easier to break new ground on the mountain.

Go Heli Skiing

Get a group of experienced skiers or snowboarders together and fly to untouched snow for jaw-dropping views from the sky and once in a lifetime descents.

Take An Avalanche Course

You really can never be too prepared when it comes to being in the mountains. Acquire the knowledge to go further and be safe while you’re at it by taking an avalanche course.

Try Something New

If you’re a skier, why not spend a day snowboarding and vice versa?

Buy Locally

Your equipment, gear, meals… Support the local communities that make ski resorts the places we love. Look out for independent shops and try the small restaurant round the corner that you’ve never heard of.

Improve Your Technique

Take a lesson and make this the year to boost your technique and ride the terrain you’ve always imagined.

Be More Sustainable

This year, try to change some of the small things like packing your lunch in a reusable bag or bringing your own water bottle to help protect the mountains we know and love.

Take A Snow Cat

Experience the Whistler backcountry with a guided cat-ski adventure. This adventure is generally cheaper than heli skiing but equally as amazing. With a few operations close to town, you’ll be driven by snow-cat to mountain tops for breathtaking descents.

New Year’s is a chance to start fresh and to dedicate yourself to working on some things that you’ve wanted to tackle. And really, what’s better than trying to ski and snowboard more often? To help get started, stop by McCoo’s, your one stop shop for adventure.

The Best Gear For Early Season

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The Best Gear For Early Season

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Early season in the mountains can mean anything and that’s exactly why you should be prepared as possible. Variable temperatures, changing snow conditions, and fluctuating weather are all par for the course. Despite the knowledge of what early season entails, many riders go out expecting similar conditions to deep winter while also expecting their gear to pick up the slack where necessary. Well, we’re here to help you navigate early season and nail down the best gear for the job!

Soft Shell

The temperatures can go from cold, to colder, to even warm when you start working up a sweat. To save yourself from sweating excessively, opt for a soft shell. Soft shell jackets provide water resistance with good temperature regulation, making them prime for early season conditions.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Oakley Silver Fox Soft Shell

Gor-Tex

In addition to temperature changes, early season skiers and snowboarders might also contend with wet snow. To make sure you stay dry while on the hill, it’s best to wear outerwear made of Gor-Tex. Not only has GORE–TEX product technologies been the waterproof gold standard, they are also known for being wind proof, breathable, and light weight.

Layers

You might encounter epic winter conditions at the top of the mountain, and warm late fall conditions at the bottom. To help you regulate your temperature and stay dry, layer up! This means having a good quality base, mid, and outer layer as well as back pack to take off or put on clothing as necessary.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Rip Curl Fall Hooded Anti Series Jacket

Merino Wool

Merino Wool is one of the best materials out there for base layers. It is finer than regular wool, which means it won’t itch and will stay comfortable against your skin all day long. It can also absorb up to 30% of its own weight in water before it starts to feel wet, making it crucial for changing conditions.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Mons Royale Base Layers

Leather

Another wonder fabric is leather. It is one of the few materials used to make gloves. Leather can be waterproofed, break in nicely, provide a good level of dexterity, even in a thick, severe cold weather style glove. Leather also lasts the test of time.

We’ve been waiting for the start of the winter season since it closed for summer but that doesn’t mean we’re going to get ahead of ourselves. Being prepared for early season conditions will just lead to more enjoyment in the long run. If you want some help gearing up for early season, just come by McCoo’s.

 

QUIZ: How Good Is Your Winter Vocabulary?

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QUIZ: How Good Is Your Winter Vocabulary?

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With winter coming up, the usual snow related lingo is entering our current vocabulary. Stoked, pow, and freshies are already replacing schralp, roost, and gnar. The snow hasn’t even hit the valley floor and we’re now talking about camber and which wax to use for the early season conditions. But how good actually is your winter vocabulary? We’re about to put you to the test!

BETA

A) Information about a selected route.

B) Your cats name.

C) A sandwich from Portobello in Upper Village.

If you chose A, your off to a good start!

SASTRUGI

A) Salami that’s more than a few days old.

B) Parallel wave-like ridges caused by winds on the surface of hard snow, especially in polar regions.

C) Your foreign house mates favourite drink.

If you chose B, you’re right!

MASHED POTATOES

A) A side that usually accompanies turkey dinner.

B) How you feel after a night out on the town.

C) A slang term for wet and heavy snow.

If you chose C, you must be familiar with west coast snow. 

PIT ZIPS

A) Jacket zippers located under the armpits allowing the user to circulate air through jacket on warmer days.

B) A snack you grab at lunch.

C) Those weird pants that unzip at the knee and turn into shorts.

If you chose A, you’re on a roll!

BOMBING

A) What patrol does to remove avalanche hazards.

B) Going down a slope recklessly fast. An apparent danger to others.

C) When you try to smooth talk someone and fail miserably.

If you chose A or B, great work! This was a trick question, and you passed!

EAGLE

A) The Bird, duh.

B) One of the Ziptrek zip lines.

C) An aerial with arms and legs spread apart. Usually happens instinctively when someone is new to the park, and going off one of their first kickers.

If you chose B, you must know your tricks. 

CRUD

A) Mud that has hardened.

B) A nasty crash.

C) Hard, lumpy, and icy. A nightmare to ski on.

If you chose C,  you must be a seasoned skier. 

So how well did you do? Comment and let us know how good your winter vocabualry is. And if you need a brush up, come on into McCoo’s and chat, we eat, sleep, breathe Whistler!

 

5 Signs Winter Is Just Around The Corner

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5 Signs Winter Is Just Around The Corner

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We’re always looking for an excuse to get excited for winter. As soon as the days begin to shorten, there’s only one thing on our mind and that’s snow. But when is too soon to start fuelling the winter stoke fire? Is it when opening day is looming or perhaps when you start pulling out your winter gear? No, we have found evidence that getting excited for winter can happen much, much sooner. Here are 5 signs that winter is just around the corner!

Dropping Temperatures

Feeling the need for an extra jacket? Chances are the lower temperatures are responsible for that. Once you see the thermometer drop into the single digits, it’s safe to say that winter is not far away. Grab a RipCurl flannel or one of their trendy light jackets to brave against the cold.

Frost

Better start leaving time in the morning to defrost your vehicle windows and make sure to bring out the salt to salt the stairs and driveway. The first frost of the year means that it’s cold and when it’s cold, snow is sure to soon follow. If you’re waking up to frost more mornings than not, it’s time to pull out your warm Hestra gloves.

Snow Line

As the saying goes, if it’s raining in the valley, chances are, it’s snowing in the alpine. And there is nothing quite like waking up to a new snow line. Watching the snow line creep closer and closer towards the valley is probably one of the most exciting and also frustrating parts of winter arriving. Can’t it just be in the valley and opening day already?

Ski Movies

Traditionally, every fall, a number of new ski movies are released. This is meant to initiate thinking about the up coming ski and snowboard season. Attending the premieres is a sure fire sign that winter is coming and a fun way to enjoy the anticipation with friends.

The Turkey Sale

The annual Whistler Blackcomb Turkey Sale is held every Thanksgiving long weekend. During the Turkey Sale, attendees will find unbeatable deals on ski and snowboard gear. It is a great opportunity to replace old gear or upgrade. Once you’ve got what you’ve needed, there’s no reason to not get stoked for the up coming season, especially with new gear in front of you! McCoo’s is excited to also be part of the Turkey Sale. Make sure to stop by to get your hands on the best gear at the best price.

 

How To Save Phone Battery Life On The Mountain

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How To Save Phone Battery Life On The Mountain

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We’ve all been there. Your phone dies just when you need it the most. It could be right before you’re supposed to meet a friend or worse case, an emergency. No matter when it turns off, it’s an inconvenience. While it’s not possible to completely stop your battery from draining, you can substantially decrease how fast it depletes. Here are some tips to help you save phone battery life while on the mountain.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

According to Apple, extreme temperatures can play a role in draining your phone’s battery while on the hill and can even cause permanent damage. To prevent your phone from being exposed to cold temperatures, refrain from taking it out while on the chair and keep it close to your body for heat.

Use Airplane Mode

Switch your phone into airplane mode to prevent it from constantly searching for a signal. Whistler Blackcomb does have good service range but there are some areas where your phone might work extra hard for that one bar.

Turn on Low Battery Mode

Turning your phone to low battery mode reduces the amount of power that it uses when the battery gets low. This should prolong what little power you have left.

Dim Your Screen

Adjusting the brightness of your screen can have a huge effect on your phone’s battery life. Dim it when you know you’re going to be away from a charger for an extended period of time.

Be Smart About Your Battery Usage

Uploading that photo to Instagram might have to wait. Many apps drain battery life. You can check which apps are the culprits under settings and in the battery section. If some are worse than others, it might be time to delete them.

Turn off Push Notifications

Push notifications are an apps way of waving at you and also a huge power drain. Stop your home screen or lock screen from lighting up every few minutes by turning off push notifications.

Stop Location Services

Once again, those pesky apps are stealing your battery life. You can optimize your battery life by turning off location services in your apps.

Turn off Push Notifications

Stop your home screen or lock screen from lighting up every few minutes by turning off push notifications.

Know Your Charge Stations

Whistler Blackcomb has many charging stations that can provide you with a little boost should you be running low. Guest Services at Skiers Plaza and the Roundhouse are just to name a few.

Power Up

If you’re planning on spending the day on the mountain and know you’re going to be using your phone, bring up a battery pack. We would suggest one of Outdoor Technologies many battery packs that come with multi-function options such as a speaker or flashlight.

If you have any questions about using your phone on the mountain and related gear, come in and speak to the experts at McCoo’s. Your one-stop shop for adventures.

The Best Gift For Every Zodiac Sign

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The Best Gift For Every Zodiac Sign

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Aries ♈

Aries is daring, active, courageous and energetic. Help them have the best season ever by getting them a tool that will facilitate the raddest adventures of all. Hestra gloves, Mons Royale base layers and Rip Curl outerwear are just to name a few.

Taurus ♉

The Taurus sign is known for having an eye for beauty. Get them an action cam such as the GoPro Hero 7 so that they can capture all of the breathtaking moments when out in nature.

Gemini ♊

Gemini’s are sociable, communicative and ready for fun. The perfect gift is one of our signature Shot Skis. This product is guaranteed to help them get the party started!

Cancer ♋

Cancer’s are the most nurturing signs of the zodiac. Get them something that can share and grow future relationships such as a S’well water bottle or tumbler. “Anyone need a drink,” will be their favorite catchphrase after they open your gift.

Leo ♌

Leo’s are warm, action-oriented and driven by the desire to be loved and admired. Grab an Oakley t-shirt or Ripcurl sweater to help them stand out in a crowd.

Virgo ♍

Virgo’s are intelligent, patient, and humble. They’ll want something they know is researched and the best technology out there. Spy Goggles with a Happy Lens or Oakley PRIZM goggles will help them see clearly, even if that means metaphorically.

Libra ♎

Their ruling planet is Venus which means that Libra’s are extremely romantic people. Let them pucker up with a HURRAW lip chap in any one of their delicious flavors.

Scorpio ♏

Scorpio’s are crazy observant and they’re constantly noticing things that others miss. A pair of Stance socks is just the attention to detail that a Scorpio loves.

Sagittarius ♐

Sagittarius is one of the biggest travelers among all zodiac signs. A Herschel backpack will allow them to carry all their belongings no matter where in the world or what adventure they are on.

Capricorn ♑

Capricorns are always forgetting to buy the practical items for themselves. Set them up for the year with a pair of Saxx Underwear or our newest addition to the McCoo’s line up, Mai Underwear.

Aquarius ♒

Aquarius is unpredictable, intelligent, social, independent and an excellent communicator. They will love anything that will keep them warm and allow them to change alongside the variable conditions. A Coal Toque is the perfect gift or stocking stuff for this star sign.

Pisces ♓

Certainly, this water sign will love a RipCurl MYBIKINI or a set of Mai Underwear from their deluxe line which also doubles as swimwear.

Why You Should Get Outside NOW!

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Why You Should Get Outside NOW!

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As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, it can be a challenge to get outside. The rain, limited light, and lack of activities are all contributing factors to the decrease in motivation. You may even be struggling to remember why you moved to the mountains in the first place. Regardless of the difficulties of mustering up the will to brave the unpleasant conditions, you have to just do it. Being outside is why you live in Whistler and among other things, it helps you stay connected. If you’re lacking the drive to be in nature, here are some more reasons why should get outside NOW!

Feel Alive

It’s no secret that nature majorly boosts vitality levels and zest for life. However, according to research, people who spend just 20 minutes outside report better physical, mental, and emotional health overall.

Reduce Stress

Tense? Stressed? Head for the trees! There is nothing like a peaceful walk in nature to refresh the mind, rejuvenate the soul, and ground yourself. De-clutter your mind and stay centered by spending time outside every day.

Exercise

The research is endless on how good exercise is for you but add in doing it outside and you’ve got a miracle cure on your hands. Depression is out the window and your energy levels will be through the roof! What’s more, exercising outside helps your body produce the essential vitamin D, necessary for bone health.

Improve Mood

Are the winter blues kicking in? Forests and natural environments are considered therapeutic and exposure has been shown to have many positive psychological effects. Studies have found that being around forests and trees leads to increased liveliness, and decreased levels of stress, hostility, and depression.

Refocus

In this day and age, we are constantly subjected to stimuli and consequently, it can be hard to stay on track of a task. Take to the outdoors for a chance to refocus your concentration. Scientists have proven that a mere walk outside can help mute distractions and realign where your energy is being put.

Boost Your Immunity

How this exposure to green space leads to better health has remained a mystery but that doesn’t make it any less effective. It’s proven time and time again that breathing in the fresh air and the essential oils from the trees, leaves and soil help to improve immune system function.

Spending time outdoors can be hard when the weather is less than inviting. Get the right gear at McCoo’s and you’re one step closer to braving the elements and enjoying all the benefits of being in nature.

Is There Such Thing As Too Much Powder?

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Is There Such Thing As Too Much Powder?

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Whistler has received 191cms in the past 7 days.

Yes, you did read that right. That’s a lot of powder and for many, it spells ideal snow conditions. We’re talking waist deep, light, and fluffy pow pow just waiting for tracks to be laid into it. Now, as each day passes and the centimeters keep accumulating, you might be thinking, “I need a rest day!” So is there such thing as too much powder? As the ski legend, Doug Coombs would say, “there is never such thing as too much snow.” But in case you’re starting to feel the effects of being a full-time powder-hound, here are some tips to get through the heaviest of storms.

Eat Right

Snow sports require a lot of physical exertion and when you add in pushing through a meter of fresh snow, you’ve just increased your work load even further. To keep up with the demands placed on your body and recover afterward, nutrition is key. First step: A proper breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks that include all the food groups

Sleep Well

This is a hard concept to take in but here we go…Pow > après. You see, après will be there all time during the season but the elusive powder, it can come and go. So get it while it’s hot and get a good night sleep to be in optimal condition for shredding the duration that the mountain is open.

Hydrate

You can feel like a million bucks until a dehydration headaches set in. If you’re having difficulty staying hydrated while you’re riding, load up a backpack and drink on the lifts or make sure to drink a lot after a day on the hill.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Stretch

If this is your third day in a row, your legs are going to be screaming as soon as you make a few turns. Combat the lactic acid and decrease your recovery time by performing a thorough stretch both before riding and after. Not only does stretching help you recover faster, but it can also help you decrease the risk of injuries.

Take Care Of Your Gear

Not only is your body taking a beating when you are riding every. single. day, but your gear is also maxing out its capabilities. No matter how tired you are, take the time to properly dry out your equipment. When you’re getting all the goods, your future self will be thanking your past self’s actions!

Powder days are the gold of skiing and you have to get out there while the getting’s good. Take care of yourself and your gear to make the most out of the best days of the season.

10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

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10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

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January 1st marks the first day of the year, and that’s a natural reason for committing to new beginnings. Rather than the usual attempt to save money or cut back on drinking, why not use this time to really make some self-improvements. From stretching after a day on the hill to eating properly – our suggested resolutions are ideal for anyone looking to improve their skiing or snowboarding.

Stretch

It’s simple, yoga can decrease your chances of injury. Even a short stretch routine can aid in prevention. So find a class or search for a video online, there’s really no excuses.

Improve Your Gear

At one point, your gear is going to be the limiting factor. Don’t fall victim to having to leave the mountain because you’re wet or goggles are fogged. Get gear that works and works for you all day long.

Take A Lesson

Yeah, yeah, we get it. Lessons aren’t really where you want to spend your free time. But if you are serious about improving your ski game, then taking a lesson is a sure fire way to get tips that will have you moving in a forward direction (literally). Bottom line, there’s no substitute for the impartial advice of someone who knows what they’re talking about.

Wake Up Early

After a night out, this is the last thing you probably want to hear. Waking up early will allow you to ride longer, get in more laps and get the best snow. No brainer right?

Eat Your Greens

A steady diet of Kraft Dinner isn’t going to provide enough (or any) nutrition for you to ride day in and day out. Think about adding some broccoli or spinach to that pasta dish.

Challenge Yourself

Now, we don’t mean go out and take risks but do go out and ride with better riders and on more challenging terrain.

Have Friends On A Pow Day

Keep your friends close and your ski buddies closer. Having a good friend that is always down to ride, even if it’s just groomers will help you log more hours and more days than if you are always flying solo.

Get Your Hike On

Not only can you access some incredible terrain but hiking or touring is a great way to get in shape. The better shape you’re in, the better your overall riding will be.

Tune Your Equipment

The last thing you want is to deal with a broken binding or rough edges on a powder day. Schedule in those regular tunes and perform regular maintenance!

Educate Yourself

Every one of us can learn more and should focus on learning something new every day. Take another avalanche course, learn how to tune your own skis, or get certified in first aid.