Colorado’s mountains are known for their world-class slopes, drawing visitors from all over the globe to enjoy its pristine terrain. However, the weather in the Centennial State can be unpredictable, and every once in a while, a season arrives with a lack of snow.
Whether it's due to warmer-than-usual temperatures, shifting weather patterns, or a delayed snowpack, a season without the expected snowfall can be frustrating for both avid enthusiasts and resort operators. This year has brought a tough season for many as the snow has been sparse, affecting resorts, ski shops, and skiers alike. However, while the weather may put a damper on the season, it also presents a valuable opportunity to focus on an often-overlooked aspect of the sport—gear maintenance and upgrades.
Colorado is home to some of the largest and most popular ski resorts in the world, such as Vail, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Aspen. These resorts rely heavily on snowfall for their business, and when it isn’t abundant, it can have a direct impact on resort operations. Resorts often depend on natural snowfall to provide the quality and quantity of snow needed to cover the slopes, which allows them to open more runs and accommodate larger numbers of skiers and snowboarders.
In the absence of significant accumulation, resorts may have to rely more on snowmaking, which can be a costly and energy-intensive process. Snowmaking equipment can help supplement natural snowfall, but it’s not a perfect solution. The warmer weather can cause issues with creating artificial snow, as the machines require certain temperatures to be effective. When the weather is too warm, these machines struggle to produce the amounts needed to open trails and ensure smooth conditions.
This can mean fewer open runs, less fresh powder, and potentially crowded slopes. This can also lead to shorter seasons, fewer opportunities for backcountry skiing, and a less-than-ideal experience on the mountain. It’s not just the skiers who are impacted; resort workers and businesses surrounding the resorts also feel the when financial pressure the season isn’t as busy as expected.
Additionally, gear shops and rental stores see a shift in business during a lean snow year. Local retailers may experience a dip in sales for equipment rentals and gear purchases when snow levels are low. Since the sport relies heavily on the cold weather, a lack of it can affect everything from boot fittings to rentals and sales of outerwear. Many customers delay purchasing or renting gear until they’re certain they’ll get the most out of it, while others may opt to skip the season entirely.
Even in a snow-deprived season, there are still plenty of reasons to focus on your gear. This is the perfect time to ensure your equipment is well-maintained, ready for the next big snowfall, and even to upgrade it for an enhanced experience once the snow does arrive.
The mountain can be intense on your gear, especially when you’re spending long days on the slopes. With a lack of snow this season, it’s an excellent time to get your skis or snowboard tuned up and ready for action when the conditions improve. Regularly tuning your gear can extend its life and improve its performance when you are able to get back out there.
Tune-ups generally include base grinding, edge sharpening, and waxing, all of which ensure your equipment performs at its best. Base grinding ensures your skis or snowboard glide smoothly, while edge sharpening provides better grip on icy or hard-packed snow. Waxing not only helps your skis or board glide more efficiently but also protects the base from drying out and becoming damaged.
When snow is scarce, gear and rental shops often experience slower business, which means they may have more time to dedicate to servicing and maintaining your gear. Take advantage of the quieter period to get your gear in optimal shape for when the snow finally arrives, ensuring you're ready to go if the weather changes.
With the unpredictable weather this year, many skiers and snowboarders in Colorado may find that the current season has been more subdued. This presents a prime opportunity to evaluate your gear and consider upgrading to improve your experience when conditions do pick up. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, the technology behind equipment is constantly evolving. Newer models can provide better performance, comfort, and durability, especially when conditions are less than ideal.
New and advanced materials can make a world of difference. Lightweight skis that are better at absorbing vibrations can enhance your ride, while ones with wider widths may perform better on softer snow. Snowboards have also evolved, with more options for different riding styles, making it easier for boarders to customize their experience.
Additionally, outerwear such as jackets, pants, gloves, and base layers have seen significant improvements in insulation, breathability, and waterproofing. Investing in newer, high-quality gear can ensure that you stay comfortable even when conditions are less than ideal.
In recent years, ski technology has advanced to include “smart” gear that adds an extra layer of convenience, safety, and performance to your ride. One exciting development is GPS-equipped smart helmets that track your runs, monitor your speed, and even alert your family or friends in case of an emergency. Ski goggles are also becoming smarter, with some models offering heads-up displays that provide important data like altitude, temperature, and distance.
Now is the perfect time to explore these innovative options and consider upgrading to some high tech gear. When snow conditions are unpredictable, having the latest tech at your disposal can enhance your experience on the slopes and give you peace of mind, knowing you're equipped with the best.
While this season may have been challenging due to the lack of snow, investing in regular maintenance and considering essential upgrades now will pay off in the long term. Those who prioritize the care of their equipment will find their gear lasts longer, performs better, and allows them to get more enjoyment out of each trip to the mountain. Furthermore, upgrading your gear ensures you’re prepared for the next big snowfall, optimizing your experience when the conditions improve.
As Colorado’s weather continues to evolve, skiers and snowboarders will benefit from staying proactive about maintaining their gear, preparing for the next season, and investing in high-quality equipment. Even when the snow isn’t abundant, there’s still plenty of work you can do to ensure you perform your best when the snow finally arrives.
While the lack of snow in Colorado this season may have disappointed, it also presents an opportunity to focus on the maintenance and potential upgrading of your gear. By investing in proper gear care, considering upgrades, and staying ahead of the curve, you can ensure that your experience on the slopes will be more enjoyable and safe when snow returns. Additionally, when business slows down for resorts, and other local businesses, it’s a great time to support these establishments by taking advantage of tune-ups, rentals, and upgrades that will ultimately improve your experience in the seasons to come. While snow might be scarce now, there’s no better time to prepare for when it eventually arrives.
