Dynastar Ambassador and TDCski Coach Giles Lewis, based in Val d’Isere, France, shares some of his top tips for optimising technique, performance and enjoyment:

Have complete peace of mind when you buy ski boots at Snow and Rock. Not only is it cheaper and safer than hiring, our equipment is the latest in ski technology, letting you relax with the knowledge that boots and skis are always correctly fitted. Our trained technicians care about you and your family’s skiing experience.

Your bindings are your connection to your skis, transferring your movements from muscle to slope so it’s important to match your bindings to your skis, ski boots, and style for the best performance.

Interchangeable lenses are becoming a common feature on more and more goggles. Light levels can change very quickly on the mountain and the effect that has on visibility can be dramatic.

A backpack carries everything you need to stay alive in the backcountry. Choose yours wisely 

Indoor climbing is an easily accessible activity which is fun and highly beneficial for experienced mountaineers and first-time climbers alike (whether you’re planning on eventually rock climbing in the great outdoors or not). Gareth Davidson from Snow+Rock tells us what to bring and what to expect from our first session on the indoor wall.

Your boots are fitted. You've chosen your board. Now don't forget one of the most important parts of your setup. Your bindings aren't just there to match your boots and board: they connect you to your board, delivering power from your body and controlling how you move.

The fleece, a soft napped insulated fabric, is one of the go to garments for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether using it as an outer layer during a cool day or a part of a layering system on a cold day

Choosing alpine touring skis can be tricky. Here's everything you need to know before you buy

Skiing powder should be like skiing on clouds. Soft, untouched snow helps skis glide over the surface; powder, however, can be a daunting prospect for a beginner, but there many who attempt the off piste before they master the techniques. University of Southampton Dry Slope Race Squad skier, Chloe Taylor, who learnt how to ski on her Winter Season 2015/16, shares her top tips for your first time skiing on powder.

While there is no perfect formula or perfect height, the right ski poles can improve your performance, giving you a more responsive and enjoyable ski. Bear in mind that sizing will be personal to you, too long or heavy for your skiing style and they’ll likely get in the way, too short and you’re more likely to position yourself too far forward, throwing you off balance.  

A great waterproof jacket is essential for the slopes, no question. But finding the right one for you isn't always so simple. Finding a jacket with the right features, waterproofness and breathability for you will ensure many long days of shredding in comfort.