Impossible to answer, very few of us want to lug around more than one pair so it’s always a compromise. When I was exploding with energy three decades ago, I was happy to carry the weight and shin-chafing stiffness of a race boot on a long touring climb because I loved the control it gave on the descent and wanted to tear up the first lift corduroy in front of the girls.

A bundle of years later I have much less energy and a hybrid touring/piste boot is much better suited to bending over the kids, carrying them on your back when they are tired and enjoying a 2pm glass of rosé with my wife before an afternoon nap.

I played with some new race skis last week thinking I was still ‘Jack the Lad’. My boots stretched and groaned with the strain but held their own and kept me happily in the carve - it was my quads that screamed and me alone that needed a lie down at lunchtime.

Do you want to rip up the hill, pootle about all day on the reds and blues or dance on the tables? More importantly, which are you best at?

Even more impossible to answer. That’s all about foot size & shape. Just like a motorbike helmet, some fit, some don’t. Try not to be fixated on the colour and logos and never ever buy online. I will never forget, in my early days of guiding, when a guest only realised her boots were on the wrong feet when she noticed on the second chairlift that the stripes on her boot didn’t match the stripes on her ski trousers. Yep, true story. The boots were slightly more comfortable the right way round, but never going to get the best out of her skiing.

I’m ashamed to say that I once bought a pair of Rossignol Limited Edition race boots because they looked cool (purple … double the shame) but had to remove them halfway down the mountain after half a day of agony and tears and went home in my socks. Needless to say, I couldn’t give away the racy purple boots for love nor money and they’re still upstairs in the attic.

So, the type of boot depends on you, how you ski and how you’d like to ski, and you can ignore the brand. The only important thing is the fit.

The rest of this blog post is quick and easy, there is only one man. Mark Wilkinson, Wilkie to his mates, at Surefoot Val d’Isère. He fits most local skiers I know and a great number of our guests in Val d’Isère.

For the record, friend though he is, we have no commercial relationship, everyone says that he’s the best. Answer his questions on your ability and aspirations accurately (you need to be honest with yourself), he’ll look at your feet, and you can trust him to fit you into a shell and liner that works. If it is not perfect after a few days on the piste, go back and he’ll make some changes. I know guests with awkward feet that have gone back again and again until the fit was right. OK, bespoke boots and service like this is not cheap, but in the context of the priceless hours you spend on the snow, for me it represents no-brainer value for money.

Comfy feet have no price, neither on a treacherous black in a whiteout or standing on a table and banging out the moves at Cocoricos.

Lastly, whether you have inbuilt warmers or not, make sure your boots are warm when you put them on. All of our chalets have great boot warmers but if you are staying somewhere else, buy some portable heaters and carry them with you. Hot boots are so much easier to get on your foot, and they seem to fit better and stay more supple all day (author’s note: absolutely no science to support this).

Really lastly this time (!), always do your boot up as if it were on your foot even when it is not, it helps retain the shape and will distort much less over time. It’s worked for me; I’ve only ever owned four pairs of boots in the last 35 years (ignoring the pair in the attic).

Contact: Mark Wilkinson, Surefoot Val d’Isère (by appointment only)

valdisere@surefoot.com +33 4 79 09 76 60

Need somewhere to stay whilst you get your boots fitted? Grand Choucas is our closest chalet to Surefoot, fifty yards away in the very centre of Val d’Isère. 

With over 650 kilometres of pistes in 14 resorts and 2 countries, the Portes du Soleil is one of the largest ski areas in the world and there are pistes to suit skiers of all levels.

For beginners, gentle slopes and excellent ski schools ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience. Meanwhile, more advanced members of the family can tackle challenging runs like the infamous “Swiss Wall” and enjoy some off-piste adventures.

While skiing is undoubtedly a highlight of any winter holiday, the Portes du Soleil goes the extra mile to keep families and non-skiers entertained with activities such as sleigh rides, ice skating and husky dog sledding.

Read all about our favourite non-ski activities on offer in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz. 

We love Morzine! It offers convenience and family-friendly fun and with short transfer times (around 90 minutes from Geneva airport), it is ideal for families with young babies and children.

Morzine's main square transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the ski season, featuring an outdoor ice rink, carousel and trampolines. You might also be able to catch the local ice hockey team in action!

If Morzine sounds like the resort for you, read our A-Z guide to this fabulous family friendly ski resort. 

Avoriaz, a car-free paradise, is a short transfer away and boasts high-altitude skiing. Create some magical memories exploring the village on foot or by horse-drawn sleigh. Within Avoriaz, there is a fantastic indoor water park, an ice rink, a bowling alley and even a cinema. Your kids will be spoiled for choice!

Located in the Lindarets sector of the Avoriaz ski area, there is a fabulous eco-friendly snow park in Avoriaz called the “The Stash” with a dedicated freeride and freestyle area that your children will NEVER want to leave!

There is also a “Snake run” where boardercross fans can practise on the very tight berms. You will even find a hut, halfway down the Stash – a great spot for a picnic. Access is via the 6-seater Prolays chairlift.

Les Gets offers the unbeatable combination of ski-in, ski-out convenience and snowy evening strolls. When the ski lifts shut outside Altitude Lodge, the pistes become an empty wonderland. Take a late-night wander or try some bum boarding on the piste.

With a short transfer from Geneva and family rooms available in Altitude Lodge, Les Gets ensures a seamless and memorable family ski holiday.

The Portes du Soleil isn't just about skiing; it's a winter wonderland brimming with activities that cater to every member of the family. From ice skating and carousel rides to high-flying trampoline adventures and exciting ice hockey games, get ready for an incredible family holiday filled with laughter, snow and cherished memories.

Tempted?

Browse our luxury catered chalets in Les Gets, Morzine and Avoriaz.

Not sure which resort to choose? Have a chat with one of our Alpine Advisors. With extensive knowledge of the resorts and chalets, they are on hand to help you find the perfect destination for your February half-term ski trip.

One of the most important aspects of enjoying your time on the slopes is to prioritise yourself. It might sound a bit selfish, but it's crucial for your safety and enjoyment. This is one of the most important ski tips for beginners as you shouldn't feel pressured to take on runs that are too difficult for your skill level. Instead, choose runs that match your abilities, even if it means saying 'no' to the more challenging ones.

Remember that snow conditions and the number of skiers and snowboarders on the slopes can significantly affect how a run feels. Timing is key. Consider skiing challenging runs mid-morning when they're less crowded and haven't been cut up too much.

It's also okay if your ski or snowboarding buddies want to tackle more challenging runs. If they're impatient, encourage them to ski on their own while you enjoy the slopes at your own pace. Skiing should be fun, not a race.

If you're skiing with a group of varying skill levels, finding runs that allow you to do circuits is an excellent strategy. Look for runs that are interconnected or form a loop. This way, you can all stay in the same general area while skiing at your own pace.

In this scenario, it's quality over quantity. You might only complete two quality runs while others in your group do five or more. The goal here is sociable skiing, where everyone gets to enjoy the mountain without feeling rushed or held back.

At the end of a tiring day on the slopes, it's essential to stay in control. If you're exhausted and feel like you've had enough skiing or snowboarding for the day, don't hesitate to ride the cable car down. This is your time to rest and reflect on the fantastic experiences you've had during the day (and avoid the often icy and crowded home runs back into the resort).

It's normal to feel a bit guilty for not sticking with your partner or group for one more run. However, taking charge of your decisions ensures that you end your day on a positive note. Maintaining a positive attitude not only benefits you but also prevents your frustrations from affecting the rest of your party.

Skiing is about having fun and enjoying the mountain at your own pace. Prioritising your safety and well-being, finding runs that suit your skill level, and taking charge of your choices are all essential elements of a successful skiing experience.

So, hit the slopes, think about yourself and embrace the joy of skiing at your own pace. Hopefully, these skiing tips will help you manage your group’s dynamics in a way which suits you.

Need a little confidence boost at the start of your holiday with some private lessons or group tuition?

Let us pre-book your ski lessons for you with one of our ski school partners in resort.

Before you dive into the fondue, it’s important to focus on the ambience. Think faux fur throws, candles and twinkling fairy lights... For an extra touch of alpine charm, why not retrieve your skis or snowboard from their loft hibernation and display them against the wall?

Nothing kicks off a winter party better than a warm and indulgent cheese fondue! 

We'd recommend this STAUB mid-range cast iron fondue set from John Lewis. Or you might prefer this contemporary, copper-look fondue set from Dunelm. Just bear in mind that most fondue sets usually serve 6 so if your group is larger than this, you may need to borrow a second set.

What fondue fuel do I need?

We recommend keeping it simple and buying fondue gel tins that slot into the burner part of your fondue set. They will burn for approximately 45-60 minutes and keep your fondue hot. Tip: Don’t forget to stir your fondue from time to time so that the bottom doesn’t burn.

What you'll need for the fondue:

• Fondue set to serve (optional - you can use a large saucepan)
• Fondue fuel
• Cheese fondue ingredients
• Cornichons and silverskin onions
• Green salad
• Charcuterie (optional)

Things for dipping (day-old baguette bread cut into cubes, cherry tomatoes, par-boiled broccoli, red and white chicory leaves etc.)

Fondue recipe ingredients (serves 4-6)

• 1 clove of garlic, peeled and cut in half
• 150ml dry white wine
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 350g Gruyère cheese, grated
• 350g Emmenthal cheese, grated
• 2 tsp cornflour
• 4 tbsp Kirsch
• Black pepper
• Nutmeg

Fondue recipe instructions & method:

1. Rub the inside of a flameproof dish or fondue with the clove of garlic.

2. Pour in the wine and lemon juice and heat gently until bubbling.

3. Gradually stir in the cheeses and heat slowly, stirring until the cheese melts.

4. Blend the cornflour with the Kirsch. Add to the cheese and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes stirring until the mixture is thick and creamy.

5. Add pepper and nutmeg to taste.

6. Serve immediately with the French bread.

If you're short on time, we have the perfect work-around!

Just head to Waitrose and pick up 3 packs of the Emmi Fondü Cheese Original (1 pack serves 2 people). Add in a splash of Kirsch liqueur if you have some, hide the packaging and your guests will never know!

Of course you have to welcome your guests with a ski-themed apéritif. One of the simplest (yet tastiest) apéritifs we know is the classic Kir Royale... Simply pour 1 tbs of crème de cassis into a champagne flute and top with chilled champagne, prosecco or Cava and enjoy...

If you've saved a little space for dessert following your fondue feast and prefer something on the lighter side, consider a sorbet, a scoop of refreshing ice cream or perhaps a fresh fruit salad. For those of you looking for a richer treat, then why not try our delicious gluten-free Chocolate Orange Ganache dessert.

Ingredients for the ganache:

• 200g chocolate
• 300ml cream
• 2 oranges, juice

For the topping:

• 100ml cream whipped
• 20g chocolate grated
• 2 oranges, zested

Chocolate Orange Ganache instructions & method:

1. In a small saucepan gently heat the cream, chocolate and fresh orange juice. Stir occasionally until the chocolate has melted and the mixture has become thick and smooth.

2. Transfer the mixture to a jug, this will help portion the ganache.

3. Divide the mixture between 6 espresso glasses, set in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours.

4. Serve the ganache topped with whipped cream, grated chocolate and orange zest.

Check out our all-time favourite ski songs playlist blog from back in 2017. Some of the songs would still make the cut...

Hosting a relaxed après-ski-themed evening with some New Year's Eve party food can be a lovely way to usher in the new year. With the right setup and a bit of planning, you can create a cosy atmosphere that allows you and your guests to savour the flavours of the mountains while reminiscing about your skiing adventures or simply enjoying the warmth of good company.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or simply dreaming of snowy slopes, this fondue evening will transport you to the après-ski scenes of the Alps.

If all this talk of après ski and good company has got you in the mood for a ski trip, we'd love to welcome you in one of our luxurious catered ski chalets in 2024.

Skiing and snowboarding can be a challenging sport and even those who've skied for many years can always improve. A few ski lessons with an experienced instructor will help you master the essential techniques, build confidence or conquer those famous black runs you’ve heard about from your friends. Qualified ski instructors spend years learning how to build up a beginner’s confidence from day one.

A quick word of advice... If your partner offers to teach you, we recommend politely declining their offer if you want to remain in a relationship with them and enjoy your precious holiday!

A slope that may seem very easy to them can be incredibly daunting to a nervous beginner and qualified ski instructors spend years learning how to build up a beginner’s confidence from day one.

We often get asked what age children should start skiing. Ski schools provide lessons for children from as young as 4 years to introduce them to the weather, clothing & equipment. Introducing children to skiing from a young age has many benefits. Their fearless nature and lower centre of gravity make it an ideal time to start. Skiing promotes physical development, enhances balance and coordination and builds muscle strength. However, while skiing with children is great, little skiers get tired quickly so the main emphasis should be on having fun in the snow with regular ski breaks to build snowmen, make snow angels and drink hot chocolate.

We recommend morning ski lessons followed by a tasty lunch back at the chalet and an afternoon of fun with our childcare team. Remember that the goal here is for your children to love being in the mountains and if they can come to a stop and do a few snowplough turns by the end of the week, then that’s a bonus!

If you just want to give your little one a taste of skiing without booking them in for ski lessons, our advice would be to hire a pair of plastic skis that strap onto their snow boots and take them for a little slide on the nursery slopes and a ride in the gondola to see the views.

Our flexible childcare and private nanny service is available in all our resorts and can include collecting your child from their ski lessons so that you can make the most of the ski area (or enjoy a long lunch on the slopes) and not have to rush back.

For those on the hunt for fresh tracks, then why not book an off-piste session with a ski or snowboard instructor or guide? Having monitored the conditions throughout the season, they will provide you with the essential safety equipment and take you to their favourite untracked spots away from the crowds.

The choice between private and group lessons depends on your preferences and budget. Private lessons offer personalised tuition tailored to your level, making them ideal for focused improvement or building confidence in nervous skiers. If you want to learn to carve like a pro or master the moguls, try booking a dedicated private lesson where your instructor will give you personalised tips to help improve your technique and confidence on carefully chosen terrain.

Group lessons are fantastic for social skiers and those looking to share the experience with others. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to make progress and have fun.

Why not try cross-country skiing or ski touring? These activities offer a different perspective on the mountains, taking you off the busy downhill slopes and into serene, snow-covered landscapes. Cross-country skiing, which involves gliding on flat or gently rolling terrain using lightweight skis and poles, provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the snowy wilderness.

On the other hand, ski touring takes you on an adventure, where you'll earn your turns by walking up the slopes using specialised equipment such as climbing skins and alpine touring bindings before skiing down. Both experiences are physically rewarding and mentally rejuvenating, making them a great addition to your winter holiday if you fancy a change.

Ski & snowboard lessons during peak weeks are in high demand, especially morning lessons. That's why it's crucial to book your lessons early. Don’t be disheartened though if you end up with a lesson over lunch time. It’s often the quietest time on the slopes so the lift queues are shorter. Enjoy a late lunch once the crowds have left the mountain restaurants and head back out onto the slopes for the last lifts or ski back to your chalet for a soak in the hot tub or a relaxing massage.

So, don't miss out on the chance to improve your skiing skills. Book your ski lessons early and get ready to hit the slopes with confidence!

We understand it can be overwhelming with several companies in each resort offering ski lessons, all describing them in different ways. At VIP SKI, we do the research, so you don’t have to, and work with a variety of the best ski school providers in each of our resorts.

We’re more than happy to help check availability and can pre-book lessons on your behalf. We’re confident you will get the very best instruction from our ski school partners.