And so it begins, the count down ’till ski season. The summer of 2009 is dead to us. Here at Colorado Ski Country USA, we feel like the New Year started the day after Labor Day, because from now on it’s full speed ahead to Opening Day, but more on that later.
People sometimes assume that because we work in the ski industry, we have very little to do in the summer months. Au contraire my fellow snow sliders. Summer is actually very busy for us preparing and planning for the next season. We work on all the behind the scenes stuff like partnerships, programs, and planning, so that when the season starts we’re poised for powdery prosperity.
Like many resorts, this weekend we flipped the switch and changed our website over to fall. The snow report is up with estimated opening day dates and resorts are continually updating the events and deals sections. Speaking of websites, check out the newly redesigned sites of Eldora, Sunlight, Powderhorn and Monarch.
Some other changes you might notice online, Loveland and Powderhorn have new logos and Copper is bringing back their old ‘retro’ logo. I’m hoping to score one of their limited edition retro logo t-shirts, that’s one of my goals this season. I have lots of goals for this year, but more on that later.
We’ve also got the GEMS card and resort pass information updated. Pass sales are in full swing and many of the best deals have deadlines so do your research. We’ll be launching the 5th and 6th Grade Passport Programs very soon so keep an eye out for that information.
I try to take the same pre-season preparedness approach to my own skiing. Going down the check list for pre-season, next is equipment. If you’re like me and you didn’t hit any of the big box stores’ equipment sales this weekend, you’ll probably have to do a little more digging but can still find a great deal. I’m in dire need of new ski boots. I’m on 13 year old Dolomites, bright yellow with absolutely no heel left. I don’t know how I stay in my bindings. But I have custom insoles which no one should EVER be on the mountain without, and they are super warm and comfortable, but of course totally packed out. So that will be my first purchase, unless you count the new jacket I bought this summer.
It’s also a good time to think about getting the skis and boards tuned and waxed. That is, if you’re not buying new gear. I’ve heard that skis and boards can be over tuned, so I’m hesitant to mess with them too much during the season, but definitely have them looked at in the beginning of the year. I even keep a stone in my gear bag to get the little nicks off the edges during the winter.
That’s my check list. Just a few outstanding items that I’ll take care of soon. That way when it snows (I heard new white stuff has been seen in Silverton) I’ll be ready with my pass, gear and the latest info from our snow report.
Good-bye summer. We’re ready winter. Bring it.
