Meet Our Snowsports Gear Specialist Charlotte Hodge

Whether you're an avid skier or starting out in the thrilling world of snowsports, you're in for a treat.

We caught up with Charlotte Hodge, a Snow+Rock gear specialist and skiing enthusiast who has carved down the mountains since childhood. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for skiing, Charlotte is here to share her experiences, insights, and tips on choosing the best snowsports gear for an unforgettable time in the mountains.

Absolutely! Skiing has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Thanks to my dad, who's a ski instructor, I got into the sport when I was just a little kid. Right from the start, I had some awesome lessons, and one day, a local ski instructor noticed I had potential and pushed me into racing.

That's when things got even more exciting. I raced on slopes across the UK, and I even trained alongside ESF (École du Ski Français) in La Plagne, France. Racing added a whole new level of thrill to my skiing journey, and it's a part of my life I'll always treasure.

Canada was a whole new world! Mount Tremblant welcomed us with a bone-chilling -33°C that was unlike any cold I'd ever felt before. But I soon figured out the art of layering up to survive those extreme temperatures.

Skiing with my family was incredibly special. We had an amazing time exploring the slopes together. My dad, he's the comedian and always cracking jokes and occasionally coming dangerously close to skiing into me while trying to capture the perfect family video... Those little moments of laughter and togetherness are what make skiing so memorable. 

The terrain really shapes how I approach skiing. In Canada, I had to adapt to the cold and varying snow conditions. But when I'm sharing the slopes with other skiers who are out there pushing their boundaries, my competitive streak comes to life, and suddenly, I'm in race mode. The camaraderie and mutual respect among skiers creates this unique connection that makes the whole experience even more magical.

On the other hand, skiing with less experienced skiers is fun too. Watching someone step out of their comfort zone and conquer the slopes is incredibly rewarding. On our recent trip, I witnessed my mum take on a more challenging slope and bravely venturing into some off-piste powder. It was a moment of pride and joy for all of us.

With my extensive knowledge of gear and my skiing adventures, I can engage with customers about skiing equipment in a way that goes beyond simply selling products. I know how important it is to have the right gear for an amazing skiing experience, and I'm here to share that expertise with our customers.

From experience, I've learnt about a few essentials that every skier should keep in mind.

Firstly, a well-fitted pair of ski boots is absolutely crucial. Ill-fitting boots can lead to a range of issues, from cold feet to general discomfort. Our in-store boot fitters understand this all too well and are here to help you discover the perfect match, ensuring you feel confident right from the start.

As mentioned earlier, perfecting your layering system is a game-changer. Getting the right base layers and insulating clothing is key to warmth and comfort in the mountains. With the proper layering, you'll never find yourself too hot or too cold – you can simply remove or add a layer as needed.

Lastly, don't forget about the importance of a trusty helmet and quality pair of goggles. These essentials keep you safe, warm and enhance your visibility on the mountain.

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My top advice would be to fully embrace it, no matter your skill level. It's not just about racing down the slopes (although that is great fun!); it's about the thrill of being in the mountains, the laughter with friends and family, and the moments of personal achievement.

And remember, having the right gear can enhance all these experiences, so take your time to find the gear that's right for you. 

Thanks to Charlotte for sharing her passion for skiing, her experiences on the slopes, and valuable advice on selecting the right snowsports gear.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or gearing up for your first adventure, Charlotte's insights remind us that skiing is about more than just speed – it's about the moments, the connections, and the pure joy of being in the mountains.

Book an appointment online now and head to your nearest Snow+Rock store to find the right gear with people who love the snow as much as you.