Will snowshoe training make me a better skier/boarder?

Guaranteed!.   In fact, snowshoeing is recognized as one of the best cross training techniques you can do for a number of other sports and activities including cycling, running, and for me, tennis.

How does snowshoe training make me a better athlete?

Skiing, and for that matter, running and other sports demand a certain level of fitness and flexibility to minimize the potential for injury.  A strong pair of legs and core will rescue you from an inadvertent “edge catch” and just might save your bacon when you launch yourself into a blind landing where your ability to turn (quickly) will be paramount to survival.   If you use snowshoeing to train before the lift assisted skiing is available you’ll find both your lung capacity and your lower body will be tuned and ready for bigger, better skiing.   And running or tennis.  Snowshoeing can burn up to 900 calories per hour.  That’s what they say and from a personal point of view, I can tell you I’ve never had my lung’s butt kicked harder than what snowshoeing has done.   And if you’re trying to get in shape for skiing bumps, or just skiing hard all day, use your snowshoes for climbing uphill to build your legs into hammering cylinders of steely muscle.
Snowshoes add a few pounds to your feet and that can give your legs and torso the perfect amount of extra weight and repetition to improve your endurance and overall strength – both of which you’ll need to ski hard this season.   Cross training has benefits for all your endeavors, but snowshoe training for skiing is uniquely valuable because its done on snow, outdoors, and offers you the perfect balance of effort and enjoyment.   Just like skiing.   And if you’re trying to get your competitive fix on, snowshoe racing has become popular in most places where snow is found.   In fact, there are many more places to snowshoe than there are to ski since all you need are snowshoes……and snow.

Snowshoe training can be done before the lifts are open

I’m not referring to just the time of day but the weeks and sometimes, months before you can ride the lifts.   October and November, snowshoeing a few times per week can make you stronger and fitter so you can ski longer and better.  Add snowshoe training to the regimen before your season starts, but to really hone your skills, take a quick snowshoe uphill before your ski day begins to warm up your muscles and of course, get your heart pumping.  I guarantee you’re going to feel better before, during and after you ski when you’ve cross trained with snowshoes.  If you don’t have a pair of great pair of snowshoes we can certainly make some recommendations.
Whether you’re snowshoe training for skiing or discovering alternatives to it, you won’t find a better place to become baptized in winter’s easiest-to-learn activity.   And whether you’re a great athlete or a weekend warrior, snowshoeing can make you better at whatever you do.
It can be intensely aerobic and physically demanding, or a simple and easy walk in the sun.   And that’s the kind of training that can make you a better skier, and maybe a better person.   At least that day, it can.

10 Websites that Make it Easy to Make More Money

Everybody wants to make more money. Problem is, making money takes a lot of time and effort. Or does it? Sure you can make extra money the old fashion way; by getting a second or third job. And that’s fine, as long as sleeping isn’t important to you. Or, you can join those living in the 21st century and make extra money using a little thing called the Internet.
While most websites that promise riches are just scams designed to sell worthless books and DVDs, there are nonetheless some genuine opportunities on the Internet you’d be foolish to pass up if you want to make extra money.

The 10 Best Websites for Making Money
Keep in mind that no one is saying you’ll get rich using these sites but some, like HyreCar.com can provide you a tidy second income for doing almost nothing. So without further ado, our choice of the top ten legitimate ways to make money on the Internet.

1. HyreCar.com – A lot of Uber drivers are not car owners. So where do they get the cars they pick you up in? Through HyreCar.com. What does this have to do with you? If you own a car you can register it with HyreCar.com. When Uber drivers in your area need a car they go to HyreCar and select yours to rent. You can make $1000 or more a month for doing virtually nothing. Definitely one of the best ways to utilize the Internet to make money. Learn more about renting your car on HyreCar here.
2. YouTube.com – Youtube is, to a certain degree, a kind of numbers game in that the more videos you have posted the more likely it is that one of them will get significant views. Once that happens you have a chance to make money from advertisements on your videos: anywhere from $1 to $3 for every 1000 views. The key to success is to provide quality content and build a following.
3. Fiverr.com – If there’s something you’re willing to do for 5 bucks you can post it on fiverr. If someone needs what you’re offering they contact you and bingo, you’ve made $5. The secret is to offer something a lot of people need and that doesn’t take you more than a few minutes to do. Easier said than done, sure. But there are people doing quite well from fiverr.
4. mturk.com – Mturk, or mechanical turk, is run by Amazon. Anyone can sign up and become a doer of human intelligence tasks or HITs. Other companies use the information gathered from these HITs for research and development purposes. If you’re really good at doing these simple mechanical tasks you might be able to earn a few dollars an hour while you’re sitting around the house on a lazy Saturday.
5. usertesting.com – In today’s ultra competitive business environment everyone wants to know their website is as intuitive and easy to use as possible. Sign up at usertesting.com and they’ll hook you up with websites and apps that need to be tested. You’ll navigate the site or app and share your thoughts as you go. The company will use this info to make their site more effective. You’ll make $10 for your trouble.
6. zirtual.com – Zirtual hooks busy people up with online assistants (that would be you). You may be asked to write emails or do some research or you may be asked to order candy and flowers for the wife of the person you’re working for. It’s like being someone’s personal assistant without ever dealing with them in person. The hours involved can make it more of a real job than something you do in your spare time, but then, maybe that’s what you want.
7. izea.com – Izea connects journalists and other content creators with brands and sponsors that can help monetize their popularity. This assumes you already have some form of established online presence as well as a following. Izea can either help you get more out of your current efforts or hook you up to website and media outlets higher up the food chain who can help turn you from a relative unknown into a sought-after commodity
8. swagbucks.com – Take online surveys and make a few bucks. Companies are hungry for feedback on their products so they can tweak them to make them more appealing. Somebody has to supply that feedback and with swagbucks and other survey sites you’ll be able to turn an afternoon with nothing particular going on into earnings you can redeem for gift cards from sites like Amazon.
9. skillshare.com – If you have particular knowledge in a subject skillshare allows you to create instructional videos that others will then watch. You get a share of the money those people spent to access your instructional video. Maybe the best part is that you don’t need to have a degree in education or be a licensed teacher to create educational videos for the site. You won’t make the same money as a full-time professional teacher but you may be able to finance next year’s vacation with the money you make creating videos in your spare time.
10. eLance.com – Another site that hooks up freelance professionals with clients in need of their services. While it’s likely you won’t make a ton of money through eLance what it can provide you with is some extra income and a way to hone your skills while you cultivate a client base.

While all of these websites will provide you with extra income perhaps none will provide you with as much potential passive income as HyreCar.com. You won’t need to create videos and hope people click on them. You won’t need to be on call in case someone needs you to write a series of emails. You won’t need to sit there for hours completing intelligence tests or hope that people looking for a Justin Bieber video click yours by mistake. HyreCar makes earning real money, real simple. As simple as registering your car with their site. Give it a try.

Snowboard terminology: A guide for the beginner

Snowboard terminology: A guide for the beginner 

The terminology that surrounds the sport of snowboarding can be pretty inscrutable to the layperson. Combined with the fact that the terminology is intertwined irrevocably with the equipment a snowboarder uses, and evolves over time, an absence of a decade from the sport can make something like choosing a board pretty intimidating. So let’s take a look at what some of these ubiquitous terms mean, in the hopes that even an enthusiastic thirty-something can get back on the slopes, and not have a bad time.

Let’s discuss basic board types first.

First, you have all-mountain boards. This are the most common board style you'll find, designed to handle a variety of terrains, and where you should begin. The majority of snowboarders remain on an all-mountain board forever.

Freestyle boards are generally shorter, more flexible, and lighter, designed for more dynamic use, riding rails, jumps and tricks. Frequently reinforced to take a little more abuse than other boards.

Freeride boards are designed for backcountry use, in completely natural, un-groomed snow, and clumpy or deep powder. They're stiff, and stable for downhill speed, not ideal for tricks or varied terrain.

 Powder boards are, as the name implies, focused like a laser on a fast powder experience. With a wide base, and upturned tips, they're designed to not get bogged down in the deep stuff.

Splitboards are a Frankenstein hybrid between cross-country skis and a snowboard, designed
for backcountry use, the idea being that you use the skis to climb in untracked areas, and reunify the halves to carve your way downhill. For dedicated and experienced backcountry enthusiasts only.

A few words about various board-related terms.

A "directional" board is designed to travel in one direction, having a front and rear. "Directional twin" boards can be reversed, but still have one end more suitable to lead. A "true twin" board is equally good for travel with either end facing downhill.

A "wide" board is wider than other boards, because some riders have huge feet, and your heels create drag if they hang over. Ask your dealer if your shoe-size necessitates a wide board.

"Camber" refers to the bend in a particular board. Different cambers are for different styles of ride. "Regular" camber (which looks like a cat's mouth in profile) is designed for stability and tight control on groomed runs. A "reverse" camber or rocker board (which looks like a smile) is more forgiving for novice riders and in powdery conditions. Truth be told, new cambers are devised for virtually every aspect of board riding, so you could spend a lifetime finding a camber right for you.

What do Viking Helmets Have to do With Breck?

You know what caps off a great day of skiing? My guess is that everybody has an equally acceptable answer to that question; drinks with friends, hot chocolate with the kids, a much needed dinner out to a quirky local restaurant, etc. Depending on the day and the company, I would agree with all of those, plus probably quite a few more ideas that you’re thinking of right now. However, there is one thing in particular that tends to be an unexpected highlight; a local festival. Hear me out. It’s not something that people typically plan their ski day or vacation around, but for those lucky enough to be in town during a local festival, it typically ends up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip. You will get to experience something that is unique, fun, and probably a little off-the-wall.

With that in mind, if you happen to be anywhere near Breckenridge between 1/13/16 and 1/16/16 I highly suggest that you check out Ullr Fest. The Ullr (pronounced Oool-er) Fest delivers all of the eccentricities you would associate with a mountain town, plus, almost everybody is wearing some sort of Viking helmet. Intrigued yet? You should be! Entering its 53^rd year, this heritage event has deep roots within the ski and snowboard community in Breckenridge.

This festival pays homage to Ullr, the Norse God of winter* with 7 days of festivities. Each day brings a new event to various locations throughout the town, so it is a really great way to see Breckenridge in a way that you’ve never seen before! Some of the unique events you can check out include the Ullympics, where you will witness the top frying pan tossers and group skiers from around the valley vie for gold in their respective sports. Ullr Fest also has a talent show, ice skating party, bonfire, comedy night, plus a lot more. If you can make it to every event, consider yourself lucky; but if you can only check out one, you have to see the parade.

The parade, held on Thursday evening (1/14) is definitely the crown jewel of the entire festival. There are usually around 50 floats, which the locals seem intent on escalating the creativity and craziness of each year. Forget about Paper Mache and flowers, and get ready for skiers in Viking helmets being pulled behind trucks; and that’s just the standard float! This parade is fun for everybody, locals and visitors alike and if you’ve never seen it before, let me give you a heads-up; be prepared to smile, laugh, and enjoy the spectacle.

Ullr Fest is a true showcase of Breckenridge and the people that make the town what it is, so if you can get to the festival this year, you won’t be disappointed. Check out the schedule, and see what each day brings, then stop in and see for yourself why local festivals are one of the best ways to cap off a great day of skiing or riding.

It’s Smart to Carry a Knife When Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a sport that allows you to explore and enjoy nature. You get to see scenery and wildlife in its natural form. It is truly a breathtaking experience. On the other hand, snowshoeing is exciting and exhilarating. Because of the frozen world you are entering, it can even be a little dangerous if you aren’t prepared.
Preparing for a snowshoeing trip requires quite a bit of gear. You need warm clothing, food, water, shelter (if it is a longer trail), first aid, and matches to name a few. To have an enjoyable experience exploring the wintery world, you need to be armed with all necessary equipment. While all equipment is important, there is one thing you should not go snowshoeing without – a knife.

It is smart to have a reliable knife with you as you take on the wilderness. A knife that is high-quality and dependable can give you peace of mind and can keep you safe and comfortable in case an emergency arises. Due to the circumstances you are diving into on a snowshoeing trip, danger is a possibility. No one plans on getting stuck overnight or getting lost, but it is smart to be prepared in the event that happens.
A knife can save you in many unpleasant and unwanted situations. Whether you choose a Benchmade or a Gerber, an OTF or an Emerson, a high quality knife can have many uses while snowshoeing.

Fix Broken Equipment
The most common problem on the snowshoeing trail is broken or damaged equipment. Rough terrain, old equipment or bad luck can result in equipment that needs fixing. When you are in the middle of a snow packed mountain, you need to be able to repair your snowshoes.
Often knives are part of a multi-use tool. Often the screwdriver on this tool can be used to fix broken snowshoes. If you have a broken frame, you can use tent stakes and clamps to repair it. You will need a screwdriver to secure the clamps.

Cut Branches for Shelter
No one wants to get stuck in the brutal winter overnight when they weren’t planning on it. However, many have. The weather can be worse than expected. You may have traveled slower than you were anticipating. Or, you could get lost. Whichever the case, you will need to build shelter for the night to protect you from the elements and cold.
This is where a knife will be useful. You can cut small trees for tent poles. A knife will be useful for cutting small tree trunks, pine tree branches and other plants to build some type of shelter for the night.

Cut Wood for Fire
In addition to needing someone to protect you from snow, rain and wind, you will need some heat if you are either unexpectedly or not, spending the night in the winter wonderland. A knife is used to cut wood for your fire. Without a knife you will have to use tinder kindling you find broken off on the ground.
The problem with broken off kindling is that it has been soaking in the snow. By having a knife you can search for dry kindling so you can create a successful fire to keep warm.

Clean Food
A knife can also be used as a weapon to kill and clean food. If you are in an emergency or a brave soul who plans on finding their own food while on the expedition, a knife can be used for both killing and cleaning your food. Depending on the size of the fish or small animal, knives are handy to slice meat if you are eating with multiple people.

Gear for Snowshoeing

The key to enjoying a snowshoeing adventure is being prepared for the worst of conditions. Nothing can ruin an otherwise glorious experience worse than not having the proper tools necessary to brave the elements. And in some cases, venturing out into the wilderness without the proper gear can be dangerous and potentially life threatening.
Here is a basic how-to guide with essential gear you’ll want to have on you while snowshoeing this winter:

What to Wear Snowshoeing
You can always shed layers if you get too hot. But if the weather takes a peculiar turn for the worst, it is always nice to be prepared for it. Your base layer should be something that keeps you warm and can wick away moisture. A fleece mid layer on top of your base will provide the insulation you need to maintain your warmth in the coldest of conditions. And lastly, a waterproof outer layer that also breathes is essential. If your outer layer doesn’t breathe, any moisture underneath it won’t be able to dry quickly and will cause you chilly discomfort.

Snowshoeing Footwear
Since you’ll be stomping through or on top of snow, your choice in footwear is probably the most important decision of them all. Your feet will be in direct contact with the snowfall and will need insulation and moisture protection. Smartwool or Ausangate socks are two of the top brands that will keep your feet insulated and dry. Depending on your destination and the amount of snowfall, treated leather hiking boots or insulated winter hiking boots are essential investments. Don’t cut corners on this purchase and pick the boots that fit you best. It is also smart to bring a few boot options with you to test out before you venture off. If you’ll be in deep powdery snow, gaiters are another good piece of equipment to have.

Poles and Snowshoes
Some people use their ski poles for snowshoeing ventures, but telescopic poles are a better choice because they are adjustable in length, and pack away much easier if you aren’t using them. There are different types of snowshoes for the different types of snowshoeing levels and activities. Be sure to do your homework and consult with a sales person before you buy the first pair of snowshoes you see. There are different designs for steep terrains, deep powder, and trails.

Accessories
You’ll need a beanie or some similar type of insulated covering for your head and ears. Insulated and waterproofed gloves are also important in keeping your extremities from getting uncomfortable and numb. Eyewear is also important for two reasons: one, higher elevations in winter conditions are really tough on your eyes; and two, glare from the sun off the snow makes it really hard to see without eye protection. Sunglasses or goggles are a must in this situation. Prescription sunglasses or perhaps prescription lens insert for ski goggles could be used for people who wear glasses or contacts.

Safety Gear
If you are braving hazardous backcountry terrain it is always better to be safer than sorry. Avalanche beacons and probes are essential tools that can help you determine if your chosen path is safe to traverse. Other useful safety tools include a compactable shovel, sled, and avalanche snorkel. Of course it is always smart to stick to areas with minimal avalanche hazards, but for those of you seeking adventure, these tools could mean the difference between life and death.

Snowmobiling: Hitting the Powder

The sense of peace and serenity that comes from the stillness of snowy landscapes is inherent in snowshoe adventures. But what about those long winter days when cabin fever takes its toll and you need a little more excitement? Stirring up a little snow-plowed ruckus might be the answer to freeing the cooped-up soul. A snowmobiling trip among breathtaking views of the country’s most scenic trails makes for an exhilarating change of pace. Not convinced? Read on to see why every avid outdoorsmen can benefit from this full-throttle sport and how to power-sled your way to a new adventure-seeking routine:

Explore

Why choose life in the fast lane? Unlike other winter sports, snowmobiling allows for

breathtaking views of back country trails often unattainable by foot, ski or snowboard. Though there is a learning curve, snowmobiling is easily picked up by novice riders. Of course, the more you ride the more stamina and confidence you’ll build for maneuvering your motorized sled. Imagine buzzing across trails in Colorado or going full throttle in Yellowstone’s fields of powder. Where else can you go? Visit snowtracks.com for a complete guide to the nation’s best snowmobiling trails.

Learn the Ropes

Just like any new sport, you’ll need some guidance and training before you hit trails. Snow may seem easy enough to ride on, but maneuvering tactics vary depending on different types of snow. You’ll need to learn how to handle your vehicle in deep snow, packed snow, ice and raised terrain. Operating the machine takes precise control to turn and brake based on various conditions. Depending on your comfort level, choose from a slew of learning styles:
Buddy system — Before embarking on a solo snowmobile ride, buddy up with an experienced snowmobiler that can teach you the basics. Who knows, you might end up learning something from each other.
Join a club — Just like snowshoeing, snowmobiling enthusiasts share an unmatched camaraderie. Even if you’re a rookie snowmobiler, joining a club presents a great opportunity to not only make new friends but also learn new techniques among experts.
Take a class — Taking a class can be the best way to learn in the company of other novice riders. Depending on where you live, snowmobiling training is available at most major snow belts. Snowmobileinfo.org provides a state-by-state directory of training classes based on your location.

Safety Gear

A lot goes into preparing for a successful, injury-free ride. For starters, appropriate clothing is essential. You’ll experience rapid changes in climate as you climb to different altitudes and travel at varying speeds. Top-notch gear is a must to keep you comfortable under severe weather. Bikebandit.com carries snow gear you can use for all winter sports, in addition to appropriate safety gear. Essential items like helmets, goggles, gloves and boots are not only for style but imperative for safety. Thinking about skimping out on the proper attire to save money? Gear that’s not professionally designed for snow sports can leave you cold, wet and stuck in the middle of nowhere. Be smart, stay safe and ride on

Caring for your skis and snowboards

Hopefully you’ve already pulled your ski and snowboard gear out of a long summer hibernation. It’s now time to start thinking about tuning up your gear and getting ready for the season. As with tools and instruments, taking good preventative care of your ski and snowboard gear may help prolong your time enjoying it.

Keep your gear tuned and waxed

Even if you go to a professional at the beginning of the season for a tune up, with a little bit of time and patience you can save money and extend the life of your gear keeping it regularly waxed.
Wax helps reduce friction when alpine skiing or snowboarding and improve your ability to slide down the hill. Wax also helps prevent oxidation and avoid damage to your gear. One application method is to melt wax onto the base of your skis or snowboard, iron it smooth, remove all but a thin layer with a sharp edge, and then buff the layer in. Others sometimes spray on or rub on wax and apply it regularly.
Personally, I drop my skis off at my local shop at the beginning of the season and ask them to sharpen and wax my skis (and fill any scratches or divots). Then, throughout the season, I’ll take my skis to a slope-side location like Elevation Ski and Bike and have them wax my skis while I eat lunch.

Longevity depends on habits

Some folks, like my parents, say skis and snowboards can last a lifetime. Others suggest that no more than 100–200 days of use can be reasonably expected.
If you don’t damage your edges and dig big holes in the bottom of your base, you may be able to keep them in service for many years. But, if you like to regularly go off jumps or ride rails in the park, you may see less than an 100 days of use before something fails or snaps.
To avoid unnecessary damage: watch for dark patches in snow so you don’t accidentally ride over rocks. You can only fill so many holes in your base and grind down your edges before you threaten the integrity of your gear.
On top of that, I always check my bases and look at my edges after a day of skiing to see if any preventative maintenance is needed. A little bit of awareness and maintenance can go a long way before a scratch gets too big to fill or a rough edge snags and sends you falling in a dangerous situation.

Transporting and storing your gear

Treating your gear with respect, even after skiing or snowboarding, can help you prevent more unnecessary damage.
If you use a roof rack you may find your gear attracts harsh road chemicals that rust your edges and bindings. When possible, use a closed roof container, rinse your gear off after driving, or bring them inside your car if you have spare room.
When you carry your skis to and from the slopes, dragging them through the parking lot or throwing them on the ground by the lift line can easily dull your edges and damage your base. You probably know better, but your kids or your friends may not. Feel free to help them get more life out of their gear and avoid bad (expensive) decisions.
Finally, at the end of the season, consider storing your skis and snowboards in a dry, dark area with a consistent temperature. My personal preference is the furnace room. Be sure to remove any end-of-season dirt, chemicals, and rust. If your gear had a rough season, consider taking it in to the shop for a tune-up so things don’t get worse over the months (and you may get some deals compared to winter pricing).

What should I pack for my winter trip?

As a busy dad of three little ones and extended family three states away, I have come to know a thing or two about packing for a family vacation. My inner mountain-dad has come up with a great list of essentials for those planning a winter trip to Breckenridge.

Packing List

Don’t forget goggles for the snow and wind!

Long Underwear– Depending on the day, you might want to double up on this. My recommendation would be to spend the extra money for higher quality (look for a fabric that wicks away the moisture) and consider your warmth and comfort the return on investment.
Thick Winter Socks– Along the same lines as long underwear, the warmth of your feet is crucial. Bring several pairs and even consider layering depending on the activity.
Winter Hat– At the risk of sounding like your own mother, please make sure your head and ears are properly covered.
Ski & Snowboard Helmet– If you’re going to be sliding on the snow, a helmet is a must, especially for the kids. (you can rent one to save money and space)

Good Times Adventures made this break at the Continental Divide breath-taking for the Close family.

Winter gloves– Knitted mittens might work in California, but think about waterproof fabrics and insulation when you pack for Breck. Mittens tend to work best for the kiddos.
Winter Jacket– My own story is that I never really owned a true jacket until moving to Colorado. Make sure you purchase one designed for alpine conditions and freezing temperatures.
Snow Pants– Your legs are important – make sure you’ve got a good pair designed for our climate.
Snow Boots– Bring something with tread so you won’t slip & slide around town. Don’t have the best boots? Consider getting a set of Yak Trax to strap onto your shoes and look like a pro.
Ski & Snowboard Goggles– When it’s dumping snow on the slopes, sunglasses just don’t cut it. Use goggles for the snow and wind.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen– Truth be told, we have more days of sunshine than San Diego and we are closer to the sun. Bring both or buy them in Breck.

Bring your swim suit for some fun hot tubing when you’re off the mountain!

Swimsuit– Whether you’ve just spent the day skiing, snowboarding or shopping, the sport of hot-tubbing is a welcome addition to any vacation.
Camera– Definitely one of my most treasured items. Whether it’s on your phone or a separate unit, you’ll want to capture all of your Breckenridge memories to last forever.
Do you wear glasses? Cat Crap is your saving grace to prevent the ever annoying eye-gear fog up as you enter buildings. It’s a rub-on wax for your sunglasses or eyeglasses. Don’t use it on goggles, though.
Are you in Breckenridge and forgot a crucial item at home? Take a stroll down Breckenridge Main Street and check out the many shops specializing in winter gear. We live for winter here and want to ensure your stay is a warm and happy one.
 
For those with a short attention-span, here’s the list:

• Long Underwear
• Thick Winter Socks
• Winter Hat
• Ski & Snowboard Helmet
• Winter Gloves
• Winter Jacket
• Snow Pants
• Snow Boots
• Ski & Snowboard Goggles
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Swimsuit
• Camera