26 new year's resolutions for skiers and snowboarders

New year, fresh snow, same love for the mountains ... and the same little bad habits? If you’re a skier or snowboarder, the new year is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your habits on the mountain. Here are 26 resolutions for 2026 — a mix of good intentions, non-negotiable musts, and ideas that will help you get more out of every winter day.

1. Warm up before your first run

Yes, it’s boring. Yes, it works. Two or three minutes of moving your body beats spending the whole day wondering why your knees are mad at you. Include a few squats, leg swings, and twists get your body ready.

2. Take good care of your equipment

Your skis, boots or boards work hard all day—so give them a little love after every session. Dry bases and edges, take boot liners out, and brush off snow before storing everything. Regular waxing and tuning don’t just extend the life of your gear, they also make riding smoother and more fun.

3. Travel smarter to the mountains

Public transport or car sharing means fewer traffic jams, less parking stress, and a calmer start to the day. A relaxed morning sets the tone.

4. Don’t forget sunscreen

Snow reflects sunlight like it’s personal. Even on cloudy days. Even in winter. Trust us on this one. Pro tip: go for sunscreen made for cold conditions (without water). It protects your skin better, even in wind and freezing temperatures.

5. Take more breaks

No one’s handing out medals for “most runs without stopping.” Grab a drink, enjoy the view, stretch your legs, and remember why you’re here. Sitting in the sun with a drink, watching others ski, fully counts as part of the experience.

6. Stay hydrated (yes, with non-alcoholic drinks)

A few sips here and there keep your legs working, your head clear, and your mood surprisingly better. Water and tea might not look exciting, but they do more for your day than you think.

7. Read the slope rules again — and follow them

You probably learned them once. Maybe years ago. A quick reminder helps everyone share the slopes without stress, shouting, or awkward near-misses.

8. Ride at a comfortable speed when it’s crowded (this one’s a must)

Crowded slopes aren’t the place to prove anything. Controlled turns, good awareness, and a bit of patience make the day safer — and way more relaxed for everyone involved.

9. Put the phone away during rides

Yes, that clip would be cool. But focusing on the slope, the snow, and the people around you is cooler. Ride first, post later — the mountain doesn’t need retakes.

10. Make conversation on the lift

Say hello, comment on the snow, ask where they’re from. Chairlift small talk with strangers can be awkward, hilarious, or surprisingly inspiring—and sometimes it’s the best part of the day.

11. Be patient in lift lines

Everyone’s excited and ready to go. A little patience and friendly behavior make busy days feel a lot less hectic.

12. Respect closed areas and signs (also a must)

If it says closed, it’s not a secret invitation. Closed usually means dangerous, unstable, or protected. Ignoring signs rarely ends where you planned — and often affects more people than just you.

13. Take a no-pressure day

Not everything needs to be measured. No apps, no goals, no comparing stats. Just riding, stopping when you feel like it, and enjoying the snow without expectations is surprisingly refreshing.

14. Leave no trace

Snack wrappers, tissues, and “just this one thing” don’t belong in the mountains. Taking everything back down helps keep these places beautiful — and open.

15. Greet and thank lift operators and mountain staff

They work early mornings, late evenings, and all kinds of weather so we can have fun. A smile or a quick thank-you costs nothing and means a lot.

16. Try something new every day

A lesson, a different run, a new style, or even just a new route down. Small changes keep things exciting and help you grow without pressure.

17. End the day while it’s still fun

Leaving while you’re still smiling beats pushing until exhaustion, cold fingers, or frustration take over. You’ll remember the good feeling — not the extra run.

18. Take a quiet moment just to look around

No photos, no rushing, no plans. Just you, the snow, and the mountains doing what they do best. These moments last longer than any clip.

19. For freeriders: never leave safety equipment at home (a must)

Transceiver, shovel, probe — every single time. Not because it’s cool, but because it’s necessary. Powder days are only fun when everyone comes home safe.

20. Always check conditions before you head out (also a must)

Weather forecasts and avalanche reports aren’t buzzkills — they’re tools. Five minutes of checking beats hours of bad decisions later.

21. Never overestimate yourself

Confidence is great. Honest self-assessment is better. Choose terrain that matches your skills, your energy, and the conditions — not your ego.

22. Say no when something doesn’t feel right

Find the courage to say no to a line, a speed, or a plan. Trusting your gut isn’t weakness — it’s experience talking.

23. Support local businesses — or bring your own snacks

Alpine huts, cafés, and local shops are part of mountain culture. And if you’re on a budget, a packed snack with a view works just as well.

24. No one has time? Ride alone!

Solo days can be calm, focused, and surprisingly empowering. You set the pace, choose the runs, and listen only to yourself (and the snow).

25. Be social and show support

Following your favorite resort, skier, freerider, snowboarder, or local business is easy but might make a real impact. Like, comment, share.

26. Remember why you love this

The snow, the mountains, and that stupid grin you get halfway down a good run ...

Final thought  — or 26 recommendations in short: Ride with respect. Laugh often. Go home happy. That’s a good day in the mountains.