The Ultimate Winter Ski and Snowboard Shopping Guide
Welcome to the Ultimate Winter Ski and Snowboard Shopping Guide from Hoopla.
You might be gearing up to hit the slopes over the winter or getting some great deals in the offseason. Either way, Hoopla should be your first stop before you hit the ski lifts. The same way the most passionate skiers search high and higher for the perfect runs, we endlessly scour the internet for the best coupon codes and deals on all your favorite brands.
Let’s northface it, skiing and snowboarding isn’t the cheapest sport, so it’s always nice to get a deal that sends your costs downhill fast. That’s why we’ve put together a shopping guide to help you find the best ski and snowboard deals, coupon codes and get some cash back too. We can’t promise to keep you upright, but we always promise to hook you up right.
The Hoopla winter sports shopping guide has got everything you need - from what to buy to where to go. Plus, Hoopla always has all the top ski and snowboard brands such as Outdoor Master, Pro-Tec, Burton, Columbia as well as the top hotel deals from Hilton, Priceline, Expedia and more.
SNOW SKIING
How do I choose skiing gear? What does a beginning skier need?
Having the right ski gear is essential to having an enjoyable skiing experience, and it's important to choose not only based on your style, but also based on functionality. So how do you choose skiing gear?
01. Ski Boots
Boots are one of the most important pieces of ski gear. Ski boots latch onto your skis. If your boots are too loose, you risk a serious injury. If they are too tight, your shins and feet will be very uncomfortable every time you ride.
Where To Shop For Ski Boots on Hoopla…
Snowinn
Snowinn is a great partner of Hoopla. They stock a large and comprehensive range of top quality clothes, equipment and accessories for both skiers and snowboarders.
Christy Sports
Christy Sports is the leader in skis, ski boots, snowboards and bindings. They carry top brands such as Salomon, Atomic, K2, Spyder, and Volkl.
02. Ski Poles
Ski poles are necessary when it comes time to stand up after a fall and for pushing off at the start of a run. Make sure to get adjustable poles so you can customize them to suit your height and skiing style. The grip should also be grippy enough to minimize slippage no matter what type of weather conditions you're skiing in.
Where To Shop For Ski Poles on Hoopla…
Utah Ski Gear
Utah Ski Gear is a top online retailer for all things ski related. They carry top ski pole brands: from Leki, to Swix, Nordica and more.
03. Skiis
There's no skipping out on getting fitted even when purchasing skis – everyone’s skis need customizing according to their ability level: beginner, intermediate or advanced. Professional advisors don't just look at weight; they analyze technique levels and preferences, so they can choose exactly which type of ski is perfect for you.
Where To Shop For Skis on Hoopla…
Skis.com
Launched in 1997, Skis.com has over 20 years of experience bringing skis, equipment and education to people all over the US. They have everything you need from ski poles to ski boots and more.
04. Snow Helmets and Snow Goggles
Protective wear such as helmets and snow goggles are recommended whether you're newbie or experienced - they save lives! Ensuring a snug fit means testing multiple helmets until finding one that fits comfortably and prevents excessive movement while still allowing ventilation (for both hot and cold temperatures). Depending on weather conditions, goggles may be optional - if sunnier days prevail then sunglasses offer a great option to prevent glare from hitting your eyes directly.
Where To Shop For Snow Helmets, Snow Goggles and More at Hoopla…
Outdoor Master
Outdoor Master produces best in class snow goggles. Their ultra snow goggles are what the pros use: with a ton of features such as color optimization, HD vision and anti-fog coating.
Pro-Tec
Since 1973, Pro-Tec has been one of the most recognizable helmet brands. They have a wide range of protective ski helmets for the slopes.
05. Ski Clothing
It’s obviously crucial to stay warm on the mountain. Hot cocoa can thaw you out, but it won’t save you. The most important clothing items are a good ski jacket and good ski pants. Not only should these items be insulated to keep you warm - but they should be water repellant to keep you dry.
Where To Shop For Ski Clothing & Accessories at Hoopla…
Columbia
Based in Portland, Oregon, Columbia Sportswear is a leading global outdoor brand. They have all things snow clothing – from jackets to gloves, shirts and more.
SNOWBOARDING
How do I choose snowboard gear? What does a beginner snowboarder wear?
Now let’s Shred! Choosing the right snowboarding gear can make all the difference when you're out on the slopes. It's important to have quality equipment that fits properly, and is suited to your skill level and type of snowboarding you are doing. Here’s a look at some of the key factors for choosing snowboard gear.
01. Snowboard
Although there are many choices of boards in terms of size, design and style, there are essentially two broad types of snowboards that affect the way you ride: all-mountain or freestyle.
All-mountain boards have a directional shape, which means they work best going downhill; freestyle boards have a twin tip shape, which allows them to go both up and down. Selecting one of these types will determine what kind of board is right for you.
Where To Shop For Snowboards at Hoopla…
Burton
Burton is one of the most well known snowboard brands in the world. Since 1977, Burton has supplied snowboarders with all their mountain needs.
02. Snowboard Boots
Your boots confirm that your feet stay aligned with your board while providing cushioning support as well as basic protection from impact or temperature drop on cold days. Based on your height, weight and how often you plan to use them, choose flexible boots or stiffer ones if they feel too tight around your foot or leg. You also need to decide whether traditional laces or speed laces will provide more comfort depending on how often you’ll take off and put on your boots. Bindings come in different shapes and sizes so try out each type before deciding which option is best for you as good bindings will help improve blood circulation in feet over long sessions as well as enhance grip for greater control over landings after jumps.
Where To Shop For Snowboard Boots at Hoopla…
Burton
Burton has some of the best snowboard boots on the market. Their Photon Step On® Soft Snowboard Boots offer powerful yet fluid flex, and the convenience of snowboarding's most intuitive connection matched with BOA® for uncompromised control and ease of use.
03. Snowboard Helmets and Snowboard Goggles
It’s always a good idea to invest further into protective gear such as helmets and protective suits that protect from falls, collisions between riders and environmental factors like low temperatures or slippery conditions due to wet weather outside due to precipitation during snowy days! Good protective gear goes beyond aesthetic factors, there should be quality materials tested for protection. Safety considerations should be utilized when selecting these components especially for anything on the mountainside or anywhere else during winter snowboard vacation season.
Where To Shop For Snow Helmets And Snow Goggles on Hoopla…
SPY+
SPY+ has extensive offerings of best in class stylish snow goggles. Born in 1994 in San Diego, SPY+ is a California skate & snowboard brand. They focus on quality eyewear products - from sunglasses to snow goggles.
Bolle
Bolle is a French company that has been making eyewear since 1888. Bolle has a diverse collection of products from sunglasses to ski goggles to sport protective eyewear to safety glasses.
04. Snowboard Clothing
While stylish apparel might look great while riding down slopes, what truly matters most performance apparel made specifically with snowboarding in mind! Look for brands who specialize in producing clothes crafted expertly and designed to fit the needs of experienced and beginner skiers alike. Breathable fabrics wick away moisture & regulate body temperature so sweat doesn't slow performance down.
Where to shop for Snowboard apparel at Hoopla…
Moosejaw
Since 1992, Moosejaw.com has specialized in outdoor recreation apparel and gear. They have all the top brands for snow outerwear: from Northface, Columbia, Fjallraven and more.
What other snow gear should you consider for skiing and snowboarding?
Backpacks
For day trips, backpacks are great because they keep your items close at hand without having to take breaks from skiing or snowboarding every time you need something. Look for a lightweight style with several compartments that can easily hold all of your gear. Many backpacks also have adjustable straps and chest harnesses for extra security and comfort when traversing the slopes.
Wheeled Bags
Wheeled bags are the perfect option if you're heading out on an overnight excursion. With wheels and an extendable handle, these ski bags make travel effortless while offering maximum space and good protection against bumps along the way. Also look for water-resistant construction materials like reinforced ripstop nylon and gusseted compression straps with quick-release buckles.
Ski Slings
If you’re looking to add more convenience and style to carrying two sets of skis, try one of the latest trends in ski travel: ski slings! These fashionable yet functional shoulder carriers allow you access all of your essentials without having to wear a massive backpack. Choose from many stylish designs that are designed with dual shoulder straps, front pockets, inner organizes, bottom bindings adjustors, anti-theft zipper pulls etc.
Boot Bags
When packing up your ski or snowboard gear remember not to forget about your boots! Boot bags provide added protection for bulky insulated boots as well as roomy interior storage pockets for goggles, gloves and other small accessories. A boot bag is essential if you plan on checking any of your gear at an airport or need additional insulation against extreme cold temperatures while transporting them on long car rides up north.
Duffel Bags
Duffel bags offer immense interior capacity meaning they can accommodate multiple setsof skis/snowboards plus everything else—helmet, gloves, goggles—you need to hit the mountain confidently prepared. Limitless design options also ensure they look as good outside hitting town as they do inside conquering peaks!
SNOW TRAVEL
Unless you are already nested at the top of a mountain in a cozy snowy cabin, you are going to need to figure out travel plans to the mountains. Well, look no further than the mountain range of deals at Hoopla that offer you peak deals, coupon codes, promo codes and cash back on travel… all in one place.
No matter if you’re skiing in Colorado or snowboarding in California, Hoopla can earn you cash back on your next snow adventure.
Here are the winter travel partners at Hoopla that will save you cash…
Why use one travel search engine, when you can use them all? From hotels, to flights, to car rentals and cruises, Expedia searches them all. HooplaDoopla will get you 4% cashback to get away with Expedia.
No matter where you go, find out what to do. The world's largest travel platform has your back. TripAdvisor has endless ideas to inspire your travels. Make a booking through HooplaDoopla, and you’ll land 6% cash back.
Get rooms on every mountain for less! Priceline was formed in 1997 as a result of a brilliant and innovative notion based on the fact that planes were usually only two-thirds full, leaving millions of seats and a million hotel rooms empty every night. They decided to take use of the internet's ability to drive demand and fill those airlines and hotels by establishing a scenario in which customers could negotiate and determine their own prices. Priceline was founded on this principle and has grown tremendously since then. Today, you can save on the best travel deals with Priceline Cash Back from Hoopla.
With over 7,000 properties in 123 countries, Hilton is one of the largest hotel chains in the world. They also manage ski resorts throughout the world: from Vermont to Colorado.
Discover savings on all your favorite Skiing with GetSkiTickets. They specialize in selling lift tickets, season passes, ski rentals and lessons for resorts across North America. They work directly with resorts to provide skiers and snowboarders "Steep and Deep Ski Deals." They are passionate about getting the best deals on ski tickets and other on-mountain products since they like skiing and snowboarding.
Looking for deals on last minute hotels at the mountain? Planning a family ski trip a year out? Whether you’re a spontaneous traveler or a calculating planner, one of the most exciting things to save money on is traveling. Lucky for you, with our Hotels.com coupon codes, you can do exactly that!
Save up to 50% on select hotels with amazing discounts from Orbitz. Find hotels, airline tickets, vacation packages, travel deals, car rentals and cruises at Orbitz. Orbitz brings leading prices, deals and discounts alongside world class travel planning. Get Orbitz Coupon Codes and Orbitz Cash Back shopping with Hoopla. Orbitz.com is a travel fare aggregator website and travel engine owned by a subsidiary of Expedia Group, with headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.
SNOW SKI AND SNOWBOARD FAQ
When will the ski and snowboard season end?
In the United States, the ski and snowboard season generally ends in late March or April. Some resorts in Colorado, California, and Vermont stay open for skiing and snowboarding until late into Spring.
Some ski and snowboard destinations are open through at least late May/June 2023:
Arapahoe Basin, Colorado
Killington Mountain, Vermont
Mammoth Mountain, California
Timberline Lodge, Oregon
How long does the ski and snowboard season last?
The typical ski and snowboard season in North America lasts from late November through April.
Where does the ski and snowboard season last the longest?
In the United States, ski and snowboard season lasts the longest in the areas with the highest-elevation. These regions in the U.S. tend to have the longest ski seasons
Colorado
Northern California
Vermont
Only the Timberline Lodge in Oregon offers nearly year-round skiing and snowboarding in the United States.
What is the best month for skiing and snowboarding?
January through early March are generally considered the best months for winter skiing and snowboarding. This is due to the weather conditions and quieter slopes.
Can I go skiing or snowboarding in the summer?
If you want to ski and snowboard in summer, you’ll have to go to the Southern Hemisphere. Ski resorts are open there during the summer due to its being their winter. Some European ski resorts in the Alps stay open through July.
What are the different ski and snowboard regions around the United States?
New England (New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont)
The northern New England states often see longer ski and snowboard seasons than other areas due to their high altitudes and colder temperatures for most of the year. ski and snowboard season usually extends from late-November until late April or early May in these areas.
Mid-Atlantic (Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia)
ski and snowboard season season usually lasts from late November to mid-April depending on snowmaking capabilities of local resorts. In Virginia, ski and snowboarding is primarily done from December through March.
Southern Appalachia (North Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia)
Finally, states located in southern Appalachians such as North Carolina, Tennessee, or West Virginia typically have shorter seasons lasting between November / December until late March or early April.
Mountain West (Utah, Colorado)
In states such as Utah or Colorado, the ski and snowboard season tends to run longer than on the east coast. Most ski and snowboard areas operate from mid-November through late April or early May. While seasons often vary by resort, most ski and snowboard resorts are typically open through mid-April or until snow stops falling in the region.
What are the best ski and snowboard mountains on the east coast?
Whiteface Mountain, New York
Whiteface Mountain is located near Lake Placid, in Upstate New York. The resort is known for its advanced terrain parks and world-class downhill ski and snowboarding.
Sunday River, Maine
Sunday River is an award-winning destination in Maine’s Bethel region. Known for its remarkable terrain and dependable snow conditions throughout the winter months, Sunday River has more than 135 trails available for beginners through experts. T
Jay Peak Resort, Vermont
Jay Peak Resort is one of Vermont's premier family ski and snowboard and snowboard destinations. With more than 70 trails offering Alpins-style ski and snowboarding on both natural and expert terrain - plus two terrain parks - Jay Peak provides an outlet for adventurous ski and snowboarders and snowboarders to tackle challenging runs while having fun in a safe environment.
Killington Resort, Vermont
Killington Resort is one of the largest ski and snowboard and snowboard resorts on the East Coast and offers over 200 trails across seven different faces that range from gentle groomers or wide cruisers to steep chutes or mogul fields for those looking for a bit more thrill. With a plethora of learning zones designed just for beginners/novice riders to use before tackling bigger features – Killington offers something for everyone.
Mount Mansfield, Vermont
Mount Mansfield offers breathtaking views across four distinct faces: Home Away Mountain (the area biggest difficult run); Toll Road (technical ski and snowboarder & rider havens); Paradise Lodge (multiple green & blue-rated runs) & Underhill (ideal location & great beginner park). With an array of beginner areas including Snowman’s Pass Park & ample activity options like tubing & ice skating – Mount Mansfield provides plenty of winter fun that caters to everyone’s needs!
Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
Stowe Mountain Resort is considered one of Vermont’s most iconic ski and snowboard destinations due to its incredibly well groomed trails and expansive mountain views. Stowe offers up over 116 trails spread across 11 miles so you can hit up whatever type you want; from steep narrow chutes with lots of banks & tight turns to mellow cruisers down rolling ridgelines; whatever it takes you'll find at Stowe!
What are the best ski and snowboard mountains in Colorado?
The Rocky Mountain State is renowned for its world-class ski and snowboarding, and there are plenty of great resorts open in 2020. Whether you’re an experienced pro or a first-time novice, here are some of the ski and snowboard resorts
Arapahoe Basin
Located just two hours west of Denver, Arapahoe Basin is one of the premier ski and snowboard destinations in North America. It boasts over 1,400 acres of terrain, with runs ranging from intermediate to expert. Though A-Basin can get quite crowded on some weekends, it also offers night ski and snowboarding rides so beginners can practice at night.
Loveland Ski and Snowboard Area
Loveland ski and snowboard Area has been around since 1936 and offers 1,800 acres of ski and snowboardable terrain. There are over 70 trails available to explore and plenty of advanced options for those who want to take their ski and snowboardlls to the next level. Loveland prides itself on being one of the most affordable ski and snowboard areas in the country and provides discounts for military personnel and students.
Winter Park Resort
If you're looking for a full service resort experience then Winter Park Resort should be at the top of your list. Located just 60 miles northwest of Denver, this is one of North America's largest ski and snowboard areas with over 3,000 acres! The resort offers spectacular mountain views along with slopes suitable for all different ski and snowboard levels as well as beginner clinics and children's snowboarding camps so everyone can enjoy winter sports safely!
Copper Mountain Resort
With 2,465 acres of ski and snowboardable terrain outfitted with cutting edge technology, Copper Mountain Resort should be your first stop if you're traveling down Colorado’s I–70 corridor this season. The resort is divided into five distinct neighborhoods including Center Village which offers many great restaurants and shops for visitors who wish to take a break from hitting the slopes!
Vail Mountain Resort
Though Vail Mountain is one of the priciest tourism spots in Rocky Mountains it certainly justifies its price tag when it comes to luxurious accommodations amenities such as multiple high speed lift systems spa treatments and more than 5100 acres of ski and snowboard able terrain accompanied by vast amounts stunning alpine views
What are the best ski and snowboard mountains in California?
In Northern California, the Lake Tahoe region has the most ski and snowboard destinations in the state of California. There are 12 ski and snowboard resorts in the Lake Tahoe region.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is one of California’s largest ski and snowboard resorts. It has over 3,500 skiable acres. The resort has a big vertical drop, and a large annual snowfall of 400”.
Bear Mountain and Snow Summit
Just two hours from Los Angeles, the twin resorts of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in southern California. There is a total of 1,000 skiable acres between the two resorts.
How do ski and snowboard resorts make snow?
If you’ve ever hit the slopes and wondered how ski and snowboard resorts make snow all year, you’re not alone. The same question has likely riddled many ski and snowboard enthusiasts before you, but fear not! Here we reveal the process of how ski and snowboard resorts make snow and keep their guests coming back for more.
Most ski and snowboard resorts have large machines called snowmakers that create snow and lay it onto prepared runs on their slopes. A snow maker works by combining water and air at very cold temperatures to form ice crystals which are then blown onto prepared trails. To achieve this, pressurized water is released from nozzles as air is pumped through pipes onto runs. The water droplets immediately freeze when combined with cold air creating a thick layer of slush on the ground which then crystallizes instantaneously into a blanket of powdery white snow.
How much does it cost to ski and snowboard?
Much more than you think. It’s no secret - it’s expensive to ski and snowboard. How much it costs depends on the resort and whether or not you have to rent ski and snowboard gear. If you don’t have any gear - expect to spend at least $200 for a day of skiing and snowboarding.
Thankfully, Hoopla can help you save serious money on ski and snowboard gear. Hoopla has double black diamond deals from top ski and snow brands such as Burton, Columbia, Moose Jaw, Pro-Tec, SPY+, Back Country, Reks, Outdoor Master, Snow Inn, Skis.com and more!
We hope you enjoyed our snow extravaganza shopping guide. If you don't have a Hoopla membership, sign up this minute! It's free, quick and easy!
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