When it comes to extreme, it doesn’t get much tougher than this. The BBC filmed a group of young people with challenging behaviour, embarking on an expedition in the hostile artic of the North Pole. Good job the Polaroid extreme sports sunglasses, chosen by the entire expedition party, were up for the challenge.
During the programme, nineteen year old Luke Dicker, who suffers from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, challenges the label of being unteachable. He tells of his journey with a group of exploration experts, while mentoring four youngsters with behavioural problems, as they embark on the expedition of a lifetime.
We have a lot of admiration for the participants, and for the leaders of the trek who are prepared to help others take on a challenge to turn their lives around. And with glare blocking properties and UV400 protection, their Polaroid sunglasses gave these trepid explorers a clear and safe view of the snowy plain.
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Different conditions demand different lenses
I’m devoted to my ski goggles. I can’t help it. I like the protection that ski goggles provide against the wind and snow. When I’m sitting on a chairlift in a blizzard, I’m thankful that so much of my face is protected – and goggles fit over my helmet, so they’re also comfortable. What’s more, I find introducing new kit into my skiing routine something of a challenge. My last pair of boots saw 16 seasons and took me from Canada to Slovenia and back to Oregon where I bought them. Then again, I was an early and committed helmet wearer. For me, skiing isn’t about looking good in the latest gear. It’s about making sure you’re ready for what’s happening on the mountain. Snow and wind are common concerns. But, sometimes the weather takes an entirely different turn. The sun shines , the wind stops, heavy jackets come off and spring arrives – if only for a day or an afternoon. On a recent trip to Kopaonik in Serbia, I actually took off my beloved goggles and tried a pair of Polaroid’s skiing sunglasses.
Contender comes with three lenses – clear, amber and grey. Because the sun was bright, I opted for the grey lenses. It took me a minute to figure out how the lenses snap into the frame. Suffice to say I’m not the most technical person on the planet. But, once I conquered the technique, I could switch the lenses easily. Contender is lightweight – and the ear pieces are contoured to follow the line of your head. The lenses wrap around the face – giving you both UV and wind protection. I had the sensation of safety without the worry of added weight. Read more…
Protect your eyes when you're on the slopes!
Technology has taken skiing a long way. From old-fashioned wooden skis, bear-trap bindings and damp woollen jumpers to skis made from flexible synthetics, high-quality sunglasses and the latest generation of amazingly sensitive bindings, there’s no doubt that skiing is easier and safer than ever. But that doesn’t mean we can assume accidents will never happen. They can and do. But by keeping safety in mind, you can make every run as enjoyable as possible.
Make sure you can see – This sounds obvious, but it’s surprising how many people are out on the snow without the right eyewear. Not only will sunglasses or goggles protect your eyes from UV light up to 400nm, they’ll also shield your face when the wind comes up. Polaroid does a good range of skiing sunglasses and goggles. Contender comes with interchangeable lenses that will ensure you’re safe in low light as well as bright sunlight.
Get a helmet – Some resorts require them and if you plan to ski in Austria, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re wearing one. Helmets make all the difference when you fall – whether it’s a spectacular tumble or just a simple slip. And a helmet keeps your head warm too. Renting one is relatively inexpensive. Or, you can invest in your own – but get some advice on finding a good fit.
Look uphill- Every ski resort has runs that cross other runs, maps you can stop and look at on your way down and even small cafes where you can stop for a quick coffee. Whenever you’re starting or stopping , look for skiers or boarders who might be coming down the hill and toward you. They have the right-of-way – and crossing into their path is a mistake. Read more…
Learn to ski at any age
Being a beginner skier is nothing to be ashamed of. Ask any good skier and they’ll tell you honestly that skiing makes fools of us all – whether it’s an expected fall beneath the chairlift or the sudden realisation that you’re skiing in powder when you thought this would be the easiest run ever. Embrace you status as a beginner, ask for advice and, by all means, book some lessons before you leave. And don’t forget a pair of ski goggles or sunglasses – eye protection is paramount. If you’re looking for a resort that’s perfect for your first or second trip, here’s our recommendations:
Les Arcs- Vallandry is home to the justly famous British ski school, New Generation. All their lessons are taught in English. But each of the main villages is equipped with nearby bunny slopes that are perfect for beginners. Les Arcs is very large and impeccably maintained.
Cortina – Without a doubt, Cortina is one of the loveliest of all the Italian ski resorts – and when you consider just how fantastic the dolomites can be, that’s really saying something. There’s also higher and more challenging runs if you’re part of a mixed party.
Wengen – Ideal for families and for anyone who likes breathtaking scenery, Wengen is well known for its charming ski instructors. The nightlife is on the quiet side making this the perfect resort for families.
Of course these three are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Romania and Bulgaria have some seriously under-appreciated resorts that are great value for beginners. And American resorts also offer excellent instruction and comfortable accommodation.
Austria - great choices with Direct Line Skiing
Most of us spend a lot of time deciding where to go skiing. Selecting winter accommodation is an art, and booking flights a test of the most nimble-fingered. There are plenty of bargains about at the moment, so making decisions is even tougher. But whether you pick a premier Swiss resort or head to the Julian Alps for a more family-friendly break, taking steps to be physically prepared for your ski holiday is one of the best and most important things you can do. And, have a look at our ski goggles and sunglasses before you leave – eye protection for improved visibility and comfort is essential.
Get fit – Skiing takes both strength and flexibility. Endurance doesn’t hurt either. It’s not just about having enough resilience and cardio-vascular capacity to enjoy your time in the mountains, it’s also about avoiding injury. Pilates is a great choice – ideal for focusing on key muscle groups.
Drink water – Going from sea level to a high altitude can be a big change for your body. So when you arrive, make sure you drink plenty of water. And try to avoid alcohol if you can. As much as many skiers like a glass of wine at lunch, alcohol doesn’t improve your reaction times – and when runs are busy or the weather turns, you’ll need to respond quickly.
Easy does it - The first morning isn’t necessarily your finest. Start gently and don’t compete with where you were at the end of last season. If you over-work your muscles and build up lactic acid, you’ll end up feeling sore and tired for a few days. If you can only ski for a week or two a year, it’s wise to begin slowly.
Watch for fatigue- Afternoons are always a bit trickier. Sometimes, the snow on the runs is a bit rougher and other times we’re just a little bit more tired. Accidents can happen when your focus wanders.
Stretch yourself – As the day progresses, the muscles in your legs will probably get shorter and feel tighter. As soon as you’re off your skis at the end of the day, do a few stretches. You may feel a bit silly – but then being stiff and uncomfortable the next day could lead to a fall that’s even more embarrassing – and potentially painful.
What do you do to get fit for the slopes?
