Beginners, take note of number two!

Winter Olympian, Belle Brockhoff's 12 tips to get the most out of your next snow trip. Image: SuppliedSource:BodyAndSoul

Australian Olympic snowboarder and world cup champion Belle Brockhoff is shares her top tips for hitting the slopes this year.

Snow season is finally upon us! And after the cancellation of the past couple of seasons due to Covid, it's no surprise that many of us are desperate to dust off the old skis, whip out our mittens, and hit the slopes in full force.

But before you get too eager and dive head first into the ice, it's time for a quick refresher on some key pointers about taking a trip to the snow. Australian winter olympian snowboarder Belle Brockhoff has been kind enough to share her pro (and actually, quite hilarious) tips for making the most of your next trip to the ski fields.

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The cold doesn’t stop the UV rays – in fact, the snow actually reflects the sun’s rays, meaning double exposure when on the slopes. Using a sunscreen that’s designed for exercise will keep you protected while you master the snow.

For beginner snowboarders who are more likely to fall back onto the snow, duct tape a couple of nappies down the backside of your pants. If you’ve ever been hit in the tailbone, you’ll know why this might be a good idea.

Away from the metro city lights, there’s less light pollution, especially on the hill. There’s always beautiful sunset to keep an eye out for and an amazing view of the stars. Always look up to admire our starry night sky when it’s a clear night.

It’s best to set the alarm as early as possible, this way there will be fresher snow and minimal queues for equipment hire and ski lifts.

Hit the slopes during the week for quiet runs and fewer queues. Image: SuppliedSource:BodyAndSoul

No skinny dipping or nude skiing! Unless you want to skin yourself (or get severely sunburnt – see previous tip), it’s best to stay rugged up and protected in ski gear, even though it’s very tempting to get one with nature.

While the slopes are fun at the weekend, travelling up and practicing tricks during the week is even better. It’s the perfect time to grab a bunch of friends, hit the quiet slopes and enjoy fewer queues and wait times.

Ice hurts, snow doesn’t. Keep this in mind when aiming for the face in snowball fights but also if you’re practicing new tricks or its one of the first times on the slopes. Always aim for soft snow for those unavoidable falls.

Now that majority of workplaces are allowing a ‘work from anywhere’ policy, pack up the laptop and head to the snow. Most resorts have great Wi-Fi access and multiple quiet places to take meetings and calls.

Set yourself up with the right gear for the weather, including a trusty beanie! Image: SuppliedSource:BodyAndSoul

Invest in (or borrow) a pair of waterproof snowboarding/skiing pants. This means your bum will stay dry and therefore a LOT warmer.

For the, uh, broader-chested of us on the slopes, be sure to wear the most secure sports bra to prevent any excess jiggle when zooming down the slopes, especially when trying out those epic tricks with the board.

Consider the type of vehicle you’ll need to travel to the slopes. We might forget being in warmer climates majority of the year that the roads can get icy and snow settles on the roads. It’s best to drive a 4x4 vehicle, I always drive my Toyota Kluger up to the slopes – it also fits all my friends and snow gear in, too.

If your fibre intake has been high and there’s a familiar belly gurgle while in all the gear, it’s best to unzip your jacket before letting one rip. If not, there’s the risk of any unwanted smells travelling up through your jacket and into your facemask. A brief second of chill is preferable to minutes of an unpleasant smell lingering over your face.

Remember to be conscious about what vehicle you take to the snow, the roads can get icey! Image: SuppliedSource:BodyAndSoul

Belle Brockhoff is an Australian snowboarder who has represented Australia three times at the winter olympics as well as the FIS Snowboarding World Championships. She is also a Toyota ambassador. You can find her Instagram here.

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