My Winter Story
Greetings, winter enthusiasts! My name is Josh Harrington, the Family Programs and Outreach Manager at WinterKids, and skiing is my passion. My parents put me on skis at age three, and I never looked back. I studied ski industries at the University of Maine at Farmington, and I’ve built my career around staying connected to this world. With nearly four decades of skiing and 18 years in the industry, I think I’ve earned the title of ‘professional ski bum’ – something I’m probably too proud of.
Why This Blog Series
This blog series is designed to help families make the most of winter without breaking the bank. Each year, while I’m on the road attending ski swaps, WinterKids Family Days, and other WinterKids events, I talk with parents and families. Through these conversations, I often provide advice about how I keep skiing affordable for me and my family. I thought that putting them down in a blog would help spread the word better than a personal conversation.
I will also bring in advice from other outdoor winter experts. My friend Brent Vanni from L.L.Bean is a lifetime participant in winter activities. He has spent years in the outdoor industry, raising two winter-loving girls, and has done everything from ski resort work to product development. Together, we’ll share tips to help your family embrace the season with confidence and have you feeling like a winter pro.
Get Winter Ready: Check Your Gear Before the Snow Falls
While we have time before the lifts turn, October is a great time to plan ahead. The first step is to assess your equipment.
Step 1: Check Your Equipment
Dig out your skis, board, skates, snowshoes, etc., and give them a solid once-over. This can be a fun thing to do with your kids. Sometimes, equipment can be passed down to a younger sibling, which can be exciting. Look for cracked edges on skis and skates, loose or worn parts like bindings, straps, or laces, and any broken components.
Step 2: Tune it Up
If your equipment looks in working order, it’ll likely need a tune-up. Many shops offer different levels of tune, but I would suggest going with a basic edge and wax tune for skis & snowboards, and a basic edge tune for skates. One tune will get you through at least six ski days, so you may only need one more before the end of the season. By doing this in October, not only will it be easier and less stressful for you, but I promise the ski shop will also appreciate it, which can have long-term benefits for you.
Step 3: Fit Your Footwear
Next, you’ll want to take a look at your footwear. Your feet will likely change over the summer, especially with kids, and you’ll want to make sure your downhill and Nordic ski boots, ice skates, and/or winter hiking boots still fit.
When trying on downhill boots, give them the ‘flex test’: put them on, drive your knees forward, which allows your foot to fit the shape of the boot. This not only makes more room in the toe box but also mimics a natural skiing stance. You may feel some discomfort the first time you put the boots on, but you don’t want any strong pressure points or strong squeezing of the foot. You also want to take note of buckles or straps and the heel and toe plate on your boots. If some pieces seem loose or worn, a local ski shop can often replace the parts, adding life to your equipment.
Step 4: Don’t Forget Helmets
The third piece of equipment you’ll want to look over is your helmet. Helmets, no matter what the sport is, are crucial to your/your kids’ safety. Helmets are also designed for a single impact, and many folks end up wearing helmets well past their structural integrity. If you notice any cracks, dents, or broken pieces on your helmet, you should put this at the top of the list to replace.
Finding Affordable Gear
Chances are, some of your gear won’t fit or pass the safety check for this season. The good news? Fall is the perfect time to find affordable replacements. Ski and skate swaps are happening all over Maine, offering both discounted and consignment gear. I usually hit 6–10 swaps every year, and they’ve been a game-changer for keeping both kids and adults equipped at reduced prices. If you’re not sure what to look for, don’t worry — swaps always have staff and volunteers who can guide you toward the right choice. These events also have ski areas handing out swag to get you and the kids stoked for the season.
On top of that, many ski shops hold tent sales in the fall. These limited sales are a gold mine for last year’s inventory at reduced prices, so if you see one advertised, it’s worth making the trip. Between swaps, tent sales, and even seasonal leases, there are plenty of ways to keep your family geared up without overspending.
Be Ready for Winter
So, this October, take a weekend to pull out your gear, do a little prep, and maybe hit a swap or sale. By the time the first snow falls, you’ll be ready to step outside with confidence and excitement. Here’s to fresh tracks, family adventures, and a snowy winter ahead!
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