First-Time Ski and Snowboard Rental Guide: What Beginners Need to Know
Introduction: Your First Ski Rental Adventure
Your first ski or snowboard trip is an adventure like no other. It’s exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and guaranteed to be memorable. The good news? Renting your gear makes it simple. With no commitment to buying, no storage worries, and expert guidance along the way, you can focus on having fun from your very first run.
Resorts across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Washington are full of beginner-friendly terrain — like Keystone in Colorado, Deer Valley in Utah, Big Sky in Montana, or Mt. Baker in Washington. At Christy Sports and Sturtevant’s, our staff specializes in helping first-time skiers and snowboarders feel comfortable and confident. This guide will walk you through the rental process, step by step, so you can arrive ready and leave smiling.
What to Expect When Renting for the First Time
Renting for the first time might feel overwhelming, but our staff is here to help. Here’s how to prepare:
- Book online: Reserve at christysports.com at least 24 hours in advance to save up to 20%.
- Know your basics: Have your shoe size, height, and weight handy — our staff uses this to size your boots and skis or snowboard.
- Bring ski socks: Pack one pair of thin, ski-specific socks that rise above your boots — or pick some up in-store or online. Skip cotton, which leads to blisters. A good pair of ski socks makes a big difference in comfort and warmth.
Pro ski sock picks from our team:
- Smartwool Floral Field Zero Cushion Merino Socks — lightweight warmth and moisture control.
- Darn Tough Solstice OTC Lightweight Snow Socks — durable and supportive with a snug fit.
- Stance Jimmy Chin UL Merino Socks — performance-driven with bold style.
What Happens When You Arrive
Check in: Stop by the counter to confirm your reservation. If you added “early pickup” when booking, you can grab your gear after 3 PM the day before your first rental day — a great way to skip the morning rush.
Sign forms: We’ll ask a few simple questions, like your skier type. If it’s your first time, just say “beginner.” We’ll guide you from there.
Boot fitting: Boots are the most important part of your setup. Our team will make sure they’re snug, supportive, and comfortable — never painful. Don’t be shy about telling us how they feel on your feet. A little pinch or extra space might not seem like a big deal in the shop, but it can make or break your day on the mountain. We’d much rather make small adjustments now than have you tough it out later.
Pick up your gear: Once your boots fit, we’ll set you up with skis, poles (for skiers), or a snowboard, all sized to you. If you’re bringing your own boots or board, bring them along so we can make sure everything works together.
Final check: Before you head out, our techs will walk you through how to use your gear and answer any questions. Everyone renting needs to be present for fitting and to sign the agreement (with a parent or guardian if under 18).
A few helpful tips:
- Please bring a photo ID with you.
- Plan to arrive on your pickup day. We can’t guarantee gear will be held past your reserved date.
- During busy weekends and holidays, stop by earlier in the day or call ahead for advice on the best pickup time.
- Your final balance may vary slightly from your confirmation, depending on your pickup date, gear adjustments, or sales tax at that location.
Our goal is simple: we want you to walk out the door feeling confident, comfortable, and excited to hit the slopes. Whether you’re renting at Breckenridge Peak 9 or Mt. Baker, our Christy Sports team helps first-timers every single day — and we’ll make sure you’re in good hands too.
Common First-Timer Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Avoid these beginner pitfalls to keep your first trip stress-free:
- Not booking ahead: Reserve online at christysports.com to save time, money, and secure your gear.
- Not returning gear on time: Most rentals are due back by 10 AM the day after your final day. For example, gear rented 12/1–12/2 can be returned on 12/2 or by 10 AM on 12/3. Late returns may be charged for an extra day, so check your shop’s policy. Need more time? Call your location to arrange an extension.
- Ignoring the altitude: Skiing in the Rockies or Cascades means you’ll often be higher up than you’re used to. Many resorts sit between 8,000 and 12,000 feet, and that change can affect your body, especially if it’s your first time. Some people feel nothing, while others notice headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
Altitude Tips for Your First Ski Trip
Here’s how to stay comfortable so you can focus on the fun:
- Hydrate early and often. Start drinking water the day before you head to the mountains and keep sipping throughout the day. Dehydration makes altitude symptoms worse.
- Take it easy on day one. Plan to ski shorter sessions or stick to beginner runs your first day while your body adjusts.
- Watch your alcohol and caffeine. Both dehydrate you, so it’s best to go light until you’ve acclimated.
- Fuel up with balanced meals. Eating a mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats helps your body use energy efficiently at altitude.
- Rest matters. Try to get a good night’s sleep before your ski day and listen to your body — it’s okay to pause and enjoy the mountain views.
- Give yourself time. If you’re flying in from lower elevations, consider spending a night in a base town like Denver or Salt Lake City before heading to higher-altitude resorts.
With a little preparation, altitude won’t stand in your way. Stay mindful, pace yourself, and let the mountain magic take care of the rest.
Pro Tips to Feel Confident on the Slopes
Boost your confidence with these beginner-friendly tips:
- Take a lesson: Resorts like Keystone and Deer Valley offer rental + lesson packages that make learning easier.
- Ask for help: Our team can show you how to click into ski bindings or adjust snowboard straps.
- Start small: Stick to green runs to practice at your own pace.
Rent or buy a helmet: Helmets are a must for safety on the slopes. At Christy Sports, you can rent one for $14.95/day — but quantities are limited, so reserve yours when you book to guarantee availability. Prefer to have your own? You can also shop in-store or browse helmets online at Christy Sports. From the Smith Method Pro MIPS Helmet to the Giro SPUR MIPS Kids Helmet, we carry options for every age and style, so you can find the perfect fit before your trip.
- Pack smart: Bring goggles, gloves, and layers for comfort. For a full checklist, see our What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip blog.
Ready to Hit the Slopes?
Your first ski or snowboard trip doesn’t have to be stressful. With Christy Sports’ 50+ locations across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Sturtevant’s in Washington, plus expert staff and beginner-friendly gear, you’ll be ready to make memories on the mountain.
Book your rentals today at christysports.com or find a shop near your resort at christysports.com/locations/find-a-store.html. With Christy Sports, your first ski day will be all about fun, not stress.
For more information, check out our FAQs.
Last Updated: September 18, 2025
First-Time Ski and Snowboard Rental Guide: What Beginners Need to Know
Introduction: Your First Ski Rental Adventure
Your first ski or snowboard trip is an adventure like no other. It’s exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and guaranteed to be memorable. The good news? Renting your gear makes it simple. With no commitment to buying, no storage worries, and expert guidance along the way, you can focus on having fun from your very first run.
Resorts across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Washington are full of beginner-friendly terrain — like Keystone in Colorado, Deer Valley in Utah, Big Sky in Montana, or Mt. Baker in Washington. At Christy Sports and Sturtevant’s, our staff specializes in helping first-time skiers and snowboarders feel comfortable and confident. This guide will walk you through the rental process, step by step, so you can arrive ready and leave smiling.
What to Expect When Renting for the First Time
Renting for the first time might feel overwhelming, but our staff is here to help. Here’s how to prepare:
- Book online: Reserve at christysports.com at least 24 hours in advance to save up to 20%.
- Know your basics: Have your shoe size, height, and weight handy — our staff uses this to size your boots and skis or snowboard.
- Bring ski socks: Pack one pair of thin, ski-specific socks that rise above your boots — or pick some up in-store or online. Skip cotton, which leads to blisters. A good pair of ski socks makes a big difference in comfort and warmth.
Pro ski sock picks from our team:
- Smartwool Floral Field Zero Cushion Merino Socks — lightweight warmth and moisture control.
- Darn Tough Solstice OTC Lightweight Snow Socks — durable and supportive with a snug fit.
- Stance Jimmy Chin UL Merino Socks — performance-driven with bold style.
What Happens When You Arrive
Check in: Stop by the counter to confirm your reservation. If you added “early pickup” when booking, you can grab your gear after 3 PM the day before your first rental day — a great way to skip the morning rush.
Sign forms: We’ll ask a few simple questions, like your skier type. If it’s your first time, just say “beginner.” We’ll guide you from there.
Boot fitting: Boots are the most important part of your setup. Our team will make sure they’re snug, supportive, and comfortable — never painful. Don’t be shy about telling us how they feel on your feet. A little pinch or extra space might not seem like a big deal in the shop, but it can make or break your day on the mountain. We’d much rather make small adjustments now than have you tough it out later.
Pick up your gear: Once your boots fit, we’ll set you up with skis, poles (for skiers), or a snowboard, all sized to you. If you’re bringing your own boots or board, bring them along so we can make sure everything works together.
Final check: Before you head out, our techs will walk you through how to use your gear and answer any questions. Everyone renting needs to be present for fitting and to sign the agreement (with a parent or guardian if under 18).
A few helpful tips:
- Please bring a photo ID with you.
- Plan to arrive on your pickup day. We can’t guarantee gear will be held past your reserved date.
- During busy weekends and holidays, stop by earlier in the day or call ahead for advice on the best pickup time.
- Your final balance may vary slightly from your confirmation, depending on your pickup date, gear adjustments, or sales tax at that location.
Our goal is simple: we want you to walk out the door feeling confident, comfortable, and excited to hit the slopes. Whether you’re renting at Breckenridge Peak 9 or Mt. Baker, our Christy Sports team helps first-timers every single day — and we’ll make sure you’re in good hands too.
Common First-Timer Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Avoid these beginner pitfalls to keep your first trip stress-free:
- Not booking ahead: Reserve online at christysports.com to save time, money, and secure your gear.
- Not returning gear on time: Most rentals are due back by 10 AM the day after your final day. For example, gear rented 12/1–12/2 can be returned on 12/2 or by 10 AM on 12/3. Late returns may be charged for an extra day, so check your shop’s policy. Need more time? Call your location to arrange an extension.
- Ignoring the altitude: Skiing in the Rockies or Cascades means you’ll often be higher up than you’re used to. Many resorts sit between 8,000 and 12,000 feet, and that change can affect your body, especially if it’s your first time. Some people feel nothing, while others notice headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
Altitude Tips for Your First Ski Trip
Here’s how to stay comfortable so you can focus on the fun:
- Hydrate early and often. Start drinking water the day before you head to the mountains and keep sipping throughout the day. Dehydration makes altitude symptoms worse.
- Take it easy on day one. Plan to ski shorter sessions or stick to beginner runs your first day while your body adjusts.
- Watch your alcohol and caffeine. Both dehydrate you, so it’s best to go light until you’ve acclimated.
- Fuel up with balanced meals. Eating a mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats helps your body use energy efficiently at altitude.
- Rest matters. Try to get a good night’s sleep before your ski day and listen to your body — it’s okay to pause and enjoy the mountain views.
- Give yourself time. If you’re flying in from lower elevations, consider spending a night in a base town like Denver or Salt Lake City before heading to higher-altitude resorts.
With a little preparation, altitude won’t stand in your way. Stay mindful, pace yourself, and let the mountain magic take care of the rest.
Pro Tips to Feel Confident on the Slopes
Boost your confidence with these beginner-friendly tips:
- Take a lesson: Resorts like Keystone and Deer Valley offer rental + lesson packages that make learning easier.
- Ask for help: Our team can show you how to click into ski bindings or adjust snowboard straps.
- Start small: Stick to green runs to practice at your own pace.
- Rent or buy a helmet: Helmets are a must for safety on the slopes. At Christy Sports, you can rent one for $14.95/day — but quantities are limited, so reserve yours when you book to guarantee availability. Prefer to have your own? You can also shop in-store or browse helmets online at Christy Sports. From the Smith Method Pro MIPS Helmet to the Giro SPUR MIPS Kids Helmet, we carry options for every age and style, so you can find the perfect fit before your trip.
- Pack smart: Bring goggles, gloves, and layers for comfort. For a full checklist, see our What to Pack for a Family Ski Trip blog.
Ready to Hit the Slopes?
Your first ski or snowboard trip doesn’t have to be stressful. With Christy Sports’ 50+ locations across Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Sturtevant’s in Washington, plus expert staff and beginner-friendly gear, you’ll be ready to make memories on the mountain.
Book your rentals today at christysports.com or find a shop near your resort at christysports.com/locations/find-a-store.html. With Christy Sports, your first ski day will be all about fun, not stress.
For more information, check out our FAQs.
Last Updated: September 18, 2025
