Shopping for friends and family can be fun, but many times, it is frustrating at best. Identifying the gift recipient's likes and interests is one way to clarify what to give.
Ski and snowboard lovers, for instance, offer up quite an array of gift options when the shopper takes into consideration gifts that will surely be useful by anyone who enjoys a day on the slopes.
MP3 Player
Gadgets are available for all types of people, but snow lovers and MP3 players are a match made in heaven. Music that does not involve bulky players and extra CD cases, that is small enough to wear on a small cord around the neck, such as the yepp from Samsung, can be a snowboarder or skiers best friend on the hill. Take this gift one-step further, and give an MP3 player fitted into a pair of sunglasses, such as the Thump, from Oakley.
Sunglasses
Talking about sunglasses, a pair that can offer UV protection and are stylish will be a welcome gift for any snowboard or ski enthusiast who likes to hit the slopes at any time of the year, but especially during the spring when the sun’s rays bouncing off the white snow add a whole new element to ‘seeing’ where you ski.
Gift Basket
A gift basket is always a good gift, but one filled with 'just the right' items is the 'perfect' gift. Items to include in a snow lovers’ basket could include; goggles, chap sticks, lotions, sun screen, and, specifically for a snowboarder's basket, a character stomp pad, reflecting the recipients personal tastes, and a leash to match. Combine these with a gift card redeemable at the ski hills concession counter or on-site sports shop for the ultimate basket.
Glove Protectors
Glove protectors are a great gift for anyone that uses a towrope. They will be a welcome addition to those who are tired of there best gloves being ripped to shred.
Wax and Iron
Board wax is both useful and welcome to those who love to keep their equipment in top condition. Slide it into a brand new gear bag or board bag for a perfect combo. For the snowboarder or skier who actively does their own maintenance, include a waxing iron.
Safety Equipment
A helmet is a great way to show someone that you understand their love of the snow sports, and that you love them! Add a pair of wrist guards and kneepads for a great combo gift.
Off- Season Fun
A DVD or video of snowboarders doing what they do best, such as the excitement displayed in the ‘After Lame Snowboard DVD’ is a great gift during the off-season.
New to the Sport
Ski or snowboard lessons for someone new to the sport are always a welcome gift. Keep in mind that young and old alike can benefit from an instructor that knows the sport, so inquire beforehand who will be teaching the lessons, how long they last, and if at all possible, arrange for either private or small group lessons, so that the learner can receive as much personal attention as he or she may need.
Memories
If the gift recipient is someone who has a long history of skiing some of the now bygone ski areas, head to Ebay online or your local antique hunting grounds and see if you can dig up an assortment of old postcards or posters, that can help conjure up some of their thrilling memories of the now defunct hills.
