Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join this awesome society?
Registration is closed for the 2018-2019. Stay tuned for 2019-2020.
How do I get my equipment to Powder Ridge?
Skis and Snowboards are not allowed on the school bus in the morning. If you have your own equipment, you must get a ride to school in the morning. Please make sure your name appears on all of your equipment and leave it on the stage in the gym.
At the third bus wave, you can go to the gym to change and collect your equipment. Buses will provided for you and your equipment to Powder Ridge.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, Powder Ridge requires helmets for all skiers and snowboarders. To read their policy for more information, click here.
I have a really cool hat I like to wear. Do I still need to wear a helmet?
Yes, wear your cool hat on the bus and after you've skied/snowboarded for the night
I will have really bad helmet hair and it just won't look right. Do I still need to wear a helmet?
Yes, your brain is more important than your hair.
Where can I get a helmet?
All Powder Ridge rentals include a helmet. If you rented equipment, you are all set.
To purchase your own, you can try online stores: evo.com, backcountry.com or rei.com are all great sites. However, fit is important, and it's hard to try on a helmet through a computer. REI has a store in West Hartford, or you can try local ski and snowboard shops for excellent advice:
Do I have to ski/snowboard with Mr. Sinusas or Mrs. Schaefer the whole time?
No, you are free to explore the hill with your friends. However, you will be required to check in with one of them a few times throughout the night and before you leave. They will both be on the hill, with some guest teachers and would be happy to take a lap with you.
Are lessons required?
No. However, first timers are highly encouraged to sign up for lessons. Powder Ridge is a great place to learn. Please take advantage of the trained instructors they have.
It's cold outside, do I have to ski/snowboard?
It's a winter activity, what did you expect? You do not have to be outside the entire time. You are welcome to take breaks inside as often as you'd like. Tips to stay warm:
How do I get home from Powder Ridge?
You need to arrange a ride from Powder Ridge before 7:00 p.m. That is the time you should be leaving Powder Ridge, not what time you get on the chairlift for one last ride.
If I have homework on Tuesday night, will Mrs. Schaefer or Mr. Sinusas write me a note?
No, you are still responsible for getting all school work completed on time. You can either get picked up before 7:00 or do your homework in the lodge.
7:00 is kind of late. Do you provide dinner?
No, food is not provided, but you certainly need to eat. In the past students have either packed extra food or purchased it at Powder Ridge. Skiing and snowboarding uses a lot of energy. Be sure to eat enough throughout the day. Skipping breakfast and waiting until 7:30 or 8:00 for dinner is not a good idea. Don't forget to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water before, during and after skiing and snowboarding.
How do I join this awesome society?
Registration is closed for the 2018-2019. Stay tuned for 2019-2020.
How do I get my equipment to Powder Ridge?
Skis and Snowboards are not allowed on the school bus in the morning. If you have your own equipment, you must get a ride to school in the morning. Please make sure your name appears on all of your equipment and leave it on the stage in the gym.
At the third bus wave, you can go to the gym to change and collect your equipment. Buses will provided for you and your equipment to Powder Ridge.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, Powder Ridge requires helmets for all skiers and snowboarders. To read their policy for more information, click here.
I have a really cool hat I like to wear. Do I still need to wear a helmet?
Yes, wear your cool hat on the bus and after you've skied/snowboarded for the night
I will have really bad helmet hair and it just won't look right. Do I still need to wear a helmet?
Yes, your brain is more important than your hair.
Where can I get a helmet?
All Powder Ridge rentals include a helmet. If you rented equipment, you are all set.
To purchase your own, you can try online stores: evo.com, backcountry.com or rei.com are all great sites. However, fit is important, and it's hard to try on a helmet through a computer. REI has a store in West Hartford, or you can try local ski and snowboard shops for excellent advice:
- Cutting Edge (Berlin)
- Alpine Haus (Wethersfield)
Do I have to ski/snowboard with Mr. Sinusas or Mrs. Schaefer the whole time?
No, you are free to explore the hill with your friends. However, you will be required to check in with one of them a few times throughout the night and before you leave. They will both be on the hill, with some guest teachers and would be happy to take a lap with you.
Are lessons required?
No. However, first timers are highly encouraged to sign up for lessons. Powder Ridge is a great place to learn. Please take advantage of the trained instructors they have.
It's cold outside, do I have to ski/snowboard?
It's a winter activity, what did you expect? You do not have to be outside the entire time. You are welcome to take breaks inside as often as you'd like. Tips to stay warm:
- Dress in layers.
- Wear synthetic or wool layers. Cotton does a bad job insulating you, especially when wet.
- Have your first layer be a wicking layer. Being wet makes you colder, even though it is winter, you still sweat. You don't want that sweat staying against your skin.
- Move. Moving changes the chemical potential energy in your cells to kinetic energy. That kinetic energy can become heat. Wiggle your fingers and toes, especially when you are on the lift.
- Cover all skin. Any exposed skin, especially on your face is susceptible to frost bite. Use a neck warmer.
How do I get home from Powder Ridge?
You need to arrange a ride from Powder Ridge before 7:00 p.m. That is the time you should be leaving Powder Ridge, not what time you get on the chairlift for one last ride.
If I have homework on Tuesday night, will Mrs. Schaefer or Mr. Sinusas write me a note?
No, you are still responsible for getting all school work completed on time. You can either get picked up before 7:00 or do your homework in the lodge.
7:00 is kind of late. Do you provide dinner?
No, food is not provided, but you certainly need to eat. In the past students have either packed extra food or purchased it at Powder Ridge. Skiing and snowboarding uses a lot of energy. Be sure to eat enough throughout the day. Skipping breakfast and waiting until 7:30 or 8:00 for dinner is not a good idea. Don't forget to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water before, during and after skiing and snowboarding.