The Play
After a day on the snow nothing hits the spot like taking off the ski boots and grabbing stools at the pub with friends. It is a hardy bread who chooses to be outside all day in the middle of winter up on a mountain; work hard and play even harder. Skiers and snowboarders have never shied away from a little relaxation and liquid indulgence while they rehash the day’s falls and feats of glory.
Après Ski is a huge draw of the sport for many. Dark, loud and wooden—over the top ski bars and nightclubs have an intoxicating effect, before one is even to take a sip. Live music, promotions and strangers with smiles rule the nights around the mountains.
You will need to be ready for the experience mentally as well as physically. Here are a few suggestion to help yourselves prepare. These should cater to whatever type of establishment or ski house that you may find yourself frequenting.
Make friends – everyone up there is having a good time, you should also.
Make plans – do not talk up your game, meet the person the next day on the snow and let your slope style speak for itself.
Keg Stands – practice makes perfect, and if you are like me you do not get the opportunity as often as the days you spent in college.
Build a kicker in the back yard – A recipe for good times with friends if going out is not on the menu.
Shot gunning a can of beer – it is all about execution, form the hole you make to the angle you take.
Drinking unknown libations – usually house specialties mixed to taste harmless.
The hot, sweaty club – gloves and jacket, use the coat check.
Paying covers – try to avoid them, sometimes impossible. Or worth ever penny…
Leaving the bar/club – call a cab, walk or have a designated driver.
Fire – always intriguing and warm, but it also has the ability to burn.
Specials – 24 once cans of beer, drink quickly or finish warm.
Shots – can lead to very poor or even unacceptable behavior.
Set the alarm – Good idea. Make a pot of coffee and wake your crew up with some music.
Breakfast – no matter how hung over you may be it is necessary for a day on the mountain. For some it may actually be lunch.
Gloves – essential gear for snowballs.
Cold air – a natural refrigerator, just do not let them freeze.
Hang time – what you can get if you drink enough to jump off of a deck or balcony into a snow bank.
Glory – Being able to do it all over again the next night.
Think Snow,
S.G.
