Why did you choose Verbier over other resorts?
After my first season in Canada I wanted to experience the European Alps as an instructor. I researched where was good for freeride skiing and Verbier kept coming up time after time. Reviews often added that Verbier had a lively party scene which was the ‘cherry on top’ for me, Verbier it was…. and still is.
What are you skiing on?
This season I will skiing on piste on Rossignol Hero Master M16, and off piste; Armada Magic J’s.
What is the best thing you’ve ever done?
Hhhmm tough, I think it would have to be the decision to exchange a life working ‘in the city’ for a life in the Swiss alps.
What is your top teaching tip?
Stance and balance, the essence of all skiing. Learning to be balanced over the skis, understanding how the different joints effect your stance and realising your ability to adjust your stance and balance to the continuously changing terrain is paramount.
Favourite slope in four valleys?
On piste would have to be Jean-Pierre in Nendaz, a long winding red pitch that snakes through the trees to the village of Nendaz, lovely! For the more advanced skier it would have to be Gentianes – Tortin, a super long, reasonably steep off piste run. A real adults playground with natural half pipes, little hits and lots of moguls.
Where do you recommend to eat?
In Verbier itself it has to be Carrefour, hot stone all the way. Heading out into the 4 vallees I would always recommend Chalet des Alps in Prarion which is just over the other side of Plan du Fou. Just check that the lifts back are running before you head over!
Where do you drink?
The Loft bar; the last bastion for the Verbier seasonaire, great staff, great atmos, great tunes. Pub Mont Fort must always get a mention however, a Verbier institution which is still world class after skiing, good darts facilities too I hear.
One thing to do when you are in Verbier?
Whether you’ve never skied before or you are Candide Thovex the view from Mont Fort is still phenomenal, a must if you’re in Verbier for the week. If you are a competent skier, conquering Chassure – Tortin is a rewarding experience and a good test of your skiing ability and fitness.
Thank you Olly and we wish you all the best at the dart board this season!
How did you end up in Verbier?
I moved over to Verbier after spending two seasons in the 4 valleys neighbouring resort of Nendaz. Whilst in Nendaz, I spent a lot of time taking my clients over to Verbier anyway as the snow conditions were usually better, so it was a no-brainer to make the move across the valley!
What do you ski on?
On piste: Rossi Hero Elite ST
Off piste: Rossi Star 7 (best off piste skis ever!)
Favourite thing you’ve ever done?
Tricky question! I have a few to choose from but the earliest would be a family holiday to Australia when I was 12. We spent 6 weeks exploring the east coast in a camper. I still have such clear memories from that trip and it’s definitely given me the love to carry on travelling!
What is your best tip for skiing?
Do not put too much pressure on yourself. Much easier said that done, but usually improvement comes when you’re enjoying yourself and not trying too hard.
Favourite run in the 4 valleys?
I have two! (Is that allowed?!) The first is the black FIS run in Verbier. If the snow is good, it’s an amazing run to carve top to bottom. It’s also a good slope to take clients on for their first experience of a black run. Second is the red running from the top of Savoleyres all the way to La Tzoumaz. It’s really long and takes you through the trees.
Best restaurant according to you?
Favourite restaurant is Dahu. Amazing, quick service and a nice little sun trap!
Where will we find you with a drink in your hand?
Loft Bar. Relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. You can find the whole Performance crew there on a Saturday evening!
If you’re clients need to see or do only one thing while they are in Verbier what would it be according to you.
Stay in one of the Cabanes for a night! A great experience for all ages.
Thank you Kim and good luck with your final exam this winter!
How did you end up in Verbier?
After my ski exams I wanted to get straight into teaching, I had been to Verbier once before and loved the town and the huge ski area it has to offer, so it was a no brainer for me to come back, and that I do, year after year for the past 12 years now.
Weapon of choice?
Piste: Head I Speed World Cup Rebels
Off Piste: Salomon Q-Lab
Best thing you’ve ever done?
Get a job with Performance obviously! Apart from that, travel. Travelling has allowed me to see and experience sights like the barrier reef in Australia, wild dolphins in the Mediterranean seas, penguins at Doubtful Sounds in New Zealand, the list is endless!
Your top teaching tip?
Move – skiing is a sport whether its fast paced or a slow chilled cruise, we need to move constantly allowing us to make efficient movements using the design of the ski and staying on them, meaning less sore muscles at the end of the day and a lot more fun!
Absolute favourite slope in the 4 valleys is?
Vallon Darby
Favourite restaurant?
Dahu, best pizzas on the mountain, along with a lot more yummy delights!
Best place for drinks in Verbier?
The Loft Bar will always be my favourite, awesome people behind the bar with a chilled atmosphere, I also love a cocktail every now and then, so Farinet Lounge is my favourite place for one (or two) of these.
If you’re clients need to see or do only one thing while they are in Verbier what would it be according to you?
Go up to Mont Fort, even if your skiing abilities are not quite up for the ski down, (you can take the lift back down), the views from here are amazing. In the evening head up to Marmotte restaurant for fondue then sledge back down to Verbier, be sure to eat lots of fondue, it makes your sledge go faster, true fact
Thank you Kate, see you on the slopes this winter!
Lets start with how you ended up in Verbier?
I came to Verbier for the BASI Level 3 technical exam while I was still a senior school teacher. I stayed down in the La Ruinette apartments in Le Chable and had a super successful few weeks. I realised then that the area was somewhere I wanted to be in the future. I now live down there year round, just around the corner from where I used to stay, and I love it! In winter, I can ski from my apartment to the gondola up to work – why would you leave?
What are you skiing on at the moment?
Rossignol Hero Elite Long Turn TI and Faction 3.0s.
What is your top teaching tip?
Be brave and confident – as I often say to clients ‘skiing is skiing’ – it doesn’t really matter where you do it. In other words, once we think you’re ready, you are! Go for that red, black, intinerary or couloir! Confidence is key.
What is the best thing you’ve ever done?
Wow, what a question! Probably diving with Whale Sharks in Thailand – but there are quite a few best moments!
What is your favourite slope in the 4 Valleys?
Combatzeline red, lapping the Novelli chair! I have helped clients make huge changes on this run, and it was central in my training to full-cert. Slightly away from busier areas and with a perfect turn-around time (and long chair home to rest afterwards), this run is perfect!
Favourite restaurant?
Easy – Cabane Mont-Fort for the chicken and chips in a basket!
Where do you go for drinks?
The Loft – the coolest bar staff in town, and decent music too.
If people visiting Verbier need to see or do only one thing while they are here, what would it be according to you?
Go on a ski tour! There is so much amazing touring in the area, but if I had to pick one, it would be a two-dayer up Mont Rogneux, for the terrain, and views back to Verbier. Day 1 to Cabane Brunet for a delicious meal and bottle of wine, Day 2 to the summit and to ski fresh snow all the way back down to Lourtier – incredible!
Thank you Ben for all the great answers, have a great season!
Just a quick reminder of what is available to do in Verbier courtesy of Kent and W Verbier
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER SKI SOCKS
The days of wearing the same old ski socks that by the end of your ski holiday need to be put in a special odour containing bag that doesn’t contaminate the rest of your “dirty’ clothes is now as important as what base layer you decide to wear.
Here, we look at the importance of the ski sock. The humble ski sock has seen significant advances in scientifitic and technological development over the last few years, so much so that we can now write about how important they are from both a performance and comfort point of view. From specialised racing socks, to thin socks, to thick socks, to ski touring socks, the choice can be confusing so here is a brief overview to try and simplify it for you.
The function of the ski sock starts with its fibres and the choice of natural fibres such as wool or silk. These natural fibres have properties that will regulate heat, manage the moisture and importantly be a comfortable fit. You can find ski socks that have a combination of synthetic and natural fibres as well.
Compression Ski Socks
The CEP Compression ski socks are the Formula 1 of ski socks. They are made from premium merino wool, polyamide and high-tech spandex which when all combined, create a compression sock that offers stability for muscles and joints providing the skier optimum performance and recovery. The compression sock aids with circulation and therefore you get warmer feet, so you can focus all your energy into skiing longer and have better days on the mountain.
Merino Ski Socks
The properties of merino wool are well known for base layers but what about as ski socks? As you would imagine, a merino wool based ski sock regulates to your body’s temperature keeping your feet cool when it’s hot and hot when it’s cool. Being breathable, the socks also manage temperature and moisture providing you with warmth, support and performance on the mountains. Clever stuff indeed.
Heated Socks
Technology has even reached the sock department with temperature controlled socks at the touch of your phone with a specially designed smartphone app. Comfort and style at the press of a button. Just remember to charge the lithium ion batteries at the end of the day…
It is also worth considering having the correct fitting ski socks for your kids as they can suffer from cold feet just as much as you can.
If you need further information why not call into Surefoot and get some expert advice.
Anthony Walker
Ski instructor & Sock fanatic
