Before you carve your first turn of the season, take 10 minutes to go through this checklist to make sure your gear is ready. Nothing ruins opening day like frozen buckles, dry bases, or a helmet that smells like last February.
Whether you're a first-chair regular or planning your annual ski trip, hereâs how to start the season off rightâand how The Pro Ski and Ride can help.
đą Ski Boots: Start at the Bottom
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Try them on with proper ski socks to make sure the fit hasnât changed.
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Buckle them fully. Feel loose in the heel or cramped in the toes?
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Liners feeling packed out or worn thin?
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If you feel pain or pressure, donât tough it outâwe can fix it.
đ Book a boot fitting to adjust your current boots or find a new pair. Our expert fitters have decades of experience and can help with shell punching, liner molding, and stance alignment.
đŠ¶ Want even more control and comfort? Add custom footbeds for better balance and less fatigue.
đż Skis: Tune Before You Cruise
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Look for white, dry basesâa clear sign your skis need wax.
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Are the edges rusty or dull? Get them sharpened for better grip.
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Check for base damage or cracks near the edges.
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If your skis sat all summer, bindings should be function tested for safety.
âïž We recommend a Full Tune before your first day out.
⚠Hate waxing? Treat your skis with Phantom Permanent Waxless Glide and never wax again.
âïž Need a binding test? We offer certified testing to make sure your bindings are calibrated and safe.
𧀠Outerwear & Essentials
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Inspect your jacket and pants for tears or broken zippers.
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If water no longer beads up, itâs time for a DWR refresh.
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Helmets more than 5 years old should be replaced.
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Goggles scratched or foggy? Consider a fresh lens or new pair.
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Check your gloves or mittens for warmth and waterproofing.
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Refresh your neck gaiters or face masks so youâre not borrowing one from the lost-and-found again.
đ§Œ Pro Tip: Wash your outerwear with proper tech-wear detergent. We can suggest some if needed.
đ ïž Pro Services to Consider
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â Binding Test
đŹ Not sure what you need? Email us at theproskiandride@gmail.com
đïž Bonus Tip: Be Ready for Opening Weekend
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Check your season pass or lift ticket reservations.
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Hunter Mountain generally opens shortly after Thanksgiving  đ
đ See You on the Slopes
Let us help you start the season right. Whether youâre overdue for a tune, need new boots, or want to test out Phantom Glide, weâve got the tools, tech, and expertise to get you skiing betterâfaster.
𧥠Visit us at The Pro Ski and Ride, right down the road from the Hunter base lodge.