I have been exploring different ways to travel with really, really long feet.
After tucking away my clown shoes, I chose a healthier, more practical option: skis.
The original skis did not come with an electric-powered seat to approach the summits of hills and mountains beyond. There used to be much more cardio involved, to the dismay of those who prefer to go downhill.
I had never thought much of the other types due to this threat of cardio. Even after crossing the threshold into adulthood, I found myself wishing my dad was there to offer his pole and pull me towards the chairlift.
The essential creation of skis for travel in the snowiest of lands was not lost, but converted into a pre-sipping-hot-chocolate-by-the-fire activity (and an essential winter way to use up marshmallow reserves).
For those whom cardio does not frighten to the point of hiding under blankets near fires, there are two other types of skis to try on:
Using your legs, if they work (checking… yes they do), you can approach untouched snow by climbing up a mountain on skis. Because, gravity permitting, you will come back down. Any complaints can be directed at Newton.
Scared?
No, it does not have to involve scaling a dangerous cliff face. Beginner friendly routes will make you feel strong and very cool. Only make sure you have your backpack full of rescue gear, avalanche things, and allllll the other items that I definitely looked at before and knew how to use. So, maybe not for beginners.
The whole effort of ski touring is quite satisfying for the same reason that hiking is satisfying. If you don’t like hiking, you could… I don’t actually have a recommendation, sorry.
Perhaps the classic form of skiing, donned cross-country, will appeal more. This is not your typical autumn sport with daily training for 5k races that loom ahead. Think: EASIER (to fall and harder) TO GET GOOD AT.
If you like sweating when it’s freezing outside, this is absolutely your sport. Pack snacks and extra motivation.
Which option will you take this winter?
- Lock your doors. Stay inside until the sun stays up past 6pm.
- Pick up clown shoes. Hit the sledding hill. (Scare the kids?)
- Rent skis. Watch 6-year-olds to learn proper technique.
- Seasoned skier here. (In it for the hot chocolate.)
See you on the slopes– or by the fire.