Having FUN with WINTER (sports)
By Shirley Bloethe
OWNER OF PASS-IT-ON SPORTS
1273 Queen St (on the Plainville Line)
SOUTHINGTON, CT
860.747.8833
It’s going to be getting colder and the snow will fly--sometimes a lot and sometime a little. But with winter around the corner, how do you plan activities that most of the family and just about anyone can do?
Does the family want to get involved in winter outdoor activities? What is there to do???
Let’s start with the really simple and fun things with very little or no cost other than warm clothes and mittens!
When the snow flies and it is deep enough to play outside, it is so enjoyable for all ages to make snow angels (lay in the snow and move your arms up and down and get up carefully to see your angel ). Snow forts in the front or back yard are a great activity everyone can participate in. Be sure to have waterproof pants and gloves or mittens for everyone.
Remember a hat will keep the heat in your body and keep you warm even if you get your clothing wet.
Other activities that will cost a few dollars are tobogganing, skiing, and snowboarding. And if you have a couple thousand dollars to spend there is always snowmobiling.
Ice skating on ponds and rinks in many towns in Connecticut is available when it has been cold enough for long enough. Ice fishing and snowshoeing are fairly inexpensive and enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts. There are many trails that are made for cross country skiing and snowshoeing in the state forests. New England has many ski areas with groomed trails for cross country skiing which is much less expensive than downhill skiing. The equipment and ticket price is considerably less also. Some golf courses allow cross country skiing on their property also.
The above activities all require some kind of appropriate clothing and /or equipment.
Beginning with clothing, you want to get the best you can afford for the activity you are planning. There is quite a difference in quality of not only materials, but workmanship in different brands of winter and outdoor clothing and boots. Be sure to compare apples to apples when checking prices either online or by phone.
The less expensive snow pants or ski suits will usually be water resistant but not waterproof unless it says so on the label. There are many great lightweight materials on the market today that are waterproof as well.
It is helpful if you have a plan for the activity and can also use the item(s) for more than one sport or activity.
Many jackets, pants, sets or one piece units can be used for multiple activities. I wear my ski suit for sledding, skiing, ice skating and snowmobiling. Wearing layers under your jacket and pants is always a good idea as well. I bring along extra gloves, and mittens whenever I am out just in case it gets very warm or very cold while participating in that activity.
A neck warmer, hat and goggles in my carry bag for extreme temperature changes has made it possible to continue skiing even when the sun went down and the wind kicked up.
If feet or hands get chilled because of these conditions, be sure to have heat treat packets with you. They last for 5-6 hours once the bag is activated and are made for inside your boots or gloves to keep your extremities warm for extended periods of time. They are inexpensive ($2-3) for a pack. Get a few and keep them in the car for the winter in case of a breakdown.
Specific clothing for snowboarding is waterproof and quite warm since boarders are on the snow more than skiers. Many good quality snowboard clothing manufacturers use lightweight breathable and waterproof materials for their products. Ski clothing is always water resistant, but not always waterproof, so read the labels to be sure of what you are purchasing and that it is consistent with what you are paying for.
Ice skates and the materials they are made of make a difference in how well they will fit and form to the foot and also how warm your feet will be while skating, especially if it is outdoors on a pond.
Leather and special linings in higher quality skates provide the best fit and warmth. For adults (and children taking lessons), this is the type of skate to purchase. If you get vinyl skates, they will not “give” form to the foot and tend to allow the cold to get to the toes much quicker. Wearing two pairs of socks will not combat this problem. The feet and toes will have restricted movement and will get colder than if you wear just one good pair of socks appropriate for skating. It is important to get skates that fit properly. If the skate is too big or too small, the feet will get cold quickly.
A proper fit allows the toes to move about slightly in the skate so that blood can circulate, but not too much that the feet are sliding in the skate.
When ice fishing, warm boots and spiked crampons are the ideal resource to get you on the lake where you want to be. If there is lots of snow, you may prefer snowshoes to facilitate easier movement to your destination.
Here again, the heat packets are a good idea to pack with your gear. Socks that “wick” away the moisture in a warm boot are going to keep your feet warm and comfortable all day. This activity can make the entire body cold very quickly and extra layers of clothing is recommended. Be sure to bring or wear a hat too. Special gloves with a mitten overlay work very well and keep the hands warm while allowing the ability to work on gear when needed.
Tobogganing and sledding are great fun and can be enjoyed by the whole family from 6 months to 60. Getting up the hill is the hardest part. Be sure to wear the hats, mittens and warm clothing. Some toboggans have cushions and that makes the ride much smoother. Be sure to watch out for trees!!!
This promises to be a snowy winter and like a good boy scout, it is good to be prepared. Start looking for winter clothing and gear early for the best selection and pricing. Many consignment and closeout shops have their stock in before the big retailers even start advertising. So, make a list, see what no longer fits, and start before it gets cold and you will have an affordable and enjoyable winter with all the appropriate clothing and equipment for the entire family.
Happy Wintering!!!
Shirley Bloethe--owner
Pass It On Sports
www.passitonsports.com
email: info@passitonsports.com
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