Dear Sledette...

Dear Sledette, my boyfriend wants me to go riding with him. He says that it will be fun to spend quality time together. I don’t mind riding but I would like to have my own sled. He says that if I like riding with him, we’ll go looking for a sled for me. How will I know if I like riding unless I try it on my own? I feel so awkward when I ride with him. I am afraid that I won’t lean the right way at the right time. I know that it is a big investment, especially if you are not sure if it is for you. What do I do?
Signed, The Permanent Passenger…

Dear Permanent Passenger, I feel your pain! It is hard to make an honest judgment on things unless you have given it a fair chance. In this case, however, I believe that you have already made your choice. You have had enough exposure to the sport and if it wasn’t for you, you would know it by now. The truth is that you obviously “want” to ride; you just don’t know “what” to ride! Take it from me; buying a sled is like buying a bra. You just have to try it on to know if it will fit you. Don’t buy a sled because everyone says it is good. Think about yourself. What are your strengths, styles and preferences?

Do you have more power in your legs than in your upper body? Do you have any physical weak spots like a bad back or knees? Do you have endurance or do you excel when putting out high levels of energy for short periods of time? Will you be riding often or just a few times per season? Finally, what are your fashion preferences? Do you like flashy or conservative? Choosing a ride that suits you is step number one. Setting it up for your weight, experience level and riding style is step two. Make sure that you learn how to adjust the settings yourself. As you get more comfortable, you may want to make changes that better reflect your improving ability.

If you will only be riding casually, consider renting a sled. You might think that it is pricy but the truth is that you are avoiding the commitment of a sled purchase. No insurance, trail pass, maintenance, transportation etc is required when renting. Most places will drop off your ride & pick it up when you are done. It is by far the easiest way to enjoy the trails on a budget!

Finally, take your time getting comfortable. You may have decided to become a sledder but skill takes time to accumulate. Ride at your own pace in a manner that leaves you feeling in control at all times. Do not try to “keep-up” with the group. They will wait at intersections for you. Before you know it, you’ll be ripping along with everyone else. Soon you’ll be telling some new girl how to squeeze the throttle for the first time.

Best wishes & happy riding!

Dear Sledette, I have been riding for several years but I can’t seem to find gear that fits me and is comfortable for a day on the trails. Most suits are either too hot, too cold or they just don’t fit right. Where do I look for women’s gear and how will I know if it will stand up to the elements?

Signed; Hot, under the Helmut…

Dear Hot under the Helmut, your concerns are no doubt shared by many other female enthusiasts. The fact that women are the minority with respect to the sledding community has led manufacturers to focus their attention on gear for men. Times are changing but still, when you open any clothing catalogue, the men’s riding gear outnumbers women’s at least 4 to 1. So what to do? Sometimes the answer in these situations is easier than we think. The trick is to layer. First jump in to your base layer. For me, that could be a pair of tights or even nylons, a turtle neck or sometimes a long sleeved shirt. Then add the sweater and maybe a pair of track pants. Next is the snow pants and jacket. Don’t be shy to trust your gut on the clothes. Be sure that the outerwear will move with you freely. The exterior layer is required to stop win, repel moisture and insulate against heat loss. I have 2 suits. One is for the cold days, thick pants and coat. The other is for temps of -10 and above. If you would prefer to keep some extra room in your closet, check out the 3 in one coats. Having the option to remove the liner will be useful, even mid-day. You’ll have the extra warmth for the morning and a more comfortable ride in the warmer afternoon.

The last bit of advice is to use caution when selecting gear for the name, colour etc. Too often, people will get caught up with the hype of a brand and forget to purchase the quality that they need for their style of riding. If you must have the logo or appliqué, check with the manufacturer. Most can sell the embroidered insignia separately. A few stitches and you have your own custom sled wear! Just don’t forget to apply waterproofing spray to the sewn area.

Stay warm and in style- happy riding!

Bring on the Snow!

The air is crisp and snow tires are in style. That magnificent season of winter is now on our doorstep. For some, this time of year inspires the migration to warmer climates. For others, December triggers the need for holiday decorations, marathon shopping trips and elaborate feasts. In spite of the excitement, there is still the sympathetic condolences from those delivering the weather forecast that are meant to somehow comfort us after the news that snow and ice are on the way. Is it because of the messy road conditions or rising heating costs? Is it because our fashionable shoes must be replaced with insulated and water resistant boots? I’ll admit that the sting of a sharp wind from the north can cause a cringe but it can also signify the nearing of one of my favorite times of year; Snowmobiling Season!

It has become my mission to share with others the joy that riding through a snow drenched forest can bring. Anyone that has had the opportunity to explore Ontario’s diverse landscape aboard a sled will agree that the dramatic beauty of nature is amplified when dressed in her sparking winter robe.

For those that have never experienced snowmobiling on the trails of Ontario, it is understandable that they may view winter as a nuisance that is to be endured. As children we may have rallied at the toboggan hill or raced to the ice rink. As we mature, we may feel that the physical demands of winter activity exceeds our abilities or comfort levels. Snowmobiling offers those looking for a less strenuous pastime, a chance to experience the thrill and exhilaration of snow sports in comfort.

Technology and innovation has advanced snowmobiling equipment to a point where all riders, male & female, regardless of their age or physical ability can participate with ease. There will always be high performance machines that have been developed for advanced riding but there are unlimited options for beginner, intermediate and even youth participation.

As for the cold, the effectiveness off modern outerwear makes shivering a thing of the past. Heated handlebars, wind deflecting windshields and hi-tech helmets make riding a pleasure even on the coldest of days.

The cost of getting into snowmobiling has long been a deterrent for many potential riders. Over the years, the expense of equipment, insurance and travel have seemed out of reach. With snowmobiles that now last longer, use less fuel and require minimal maintenance, sledding has become more affordable than ever. The efforts of volunteers across the province have resulted in a trail system that can be enjoyed for the modest price of a simple trail pass. Communities across Ontario have recognized the impact that snowmobiling has and a diverse selection of accommodations and services are now available to riders offering convenience and value.

Snowmobiling is no longer a sport reserved exclusively for affluent thrill seekers but rather an activity that welcomes all participants of any age and ability. There are chances for riders to tour the province or get to know a district in detail by exploring local trails systems. Clubs across Ontario continue to entertain riders by hosting Poker Runs, Puddle Jumps, Radar Runs and Charity Rides. In addition to promoting the sport of snowmobiling, clubs will often offer support to local community initiatives from Holiday Food and Gift Drives to events raising funds for Cancer patients.

The upcoming winter season promises to be the best ever here in Ontario. With new trails, great volunteers, supportive businesses and riders that include men, women and children of all ages, 2008/2009 will surely be the most fun, exciting and exhilarating winter yet! Imagine the impact if each rider invited one person to share in the uplifting and inspiring experience of sledding this year. Talk about a “Stimulus Package”!

Tis the season for Makin-Trax!

This is the season to get out there and have some serious fun! I laugh when I hear people grumble about the cooler temperatures and impending snow. You can tell that they are the ones who choose to sit inside from December to March and wait out winter. Not us! With the snow comes an unlimited list of things to do not only for children, but for adults too! I doesn’t matter what your age is.

Did you run to the toboggan hill when you were a child? Well now the sleds are a little more advanced. I still enjoy a day at the hill with the little ones. The fresh air and great work-out make for a good nights sleep! I have to admit though, few rides down a hill compare to the rush you get as you power through the fresh powder aboard a snowmobile.

Still think that snowmobiling is reserved for young guys in the mountains? Think again! Folks of all ages can select a machine that is perfect for their physical abilities and get out on one of Ontario’s 39.700 klms of trail. There are 250 snowmobile clubs in Ontario. They are made up of volunteers that have committed untold hours of dedication in order to develop and maintain the province’s trail systems. The clubs are represented by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC). The organization supplies riders with trail passes that entitle them to use any trail, any time, anywhere in the province of Ontario. For the 2008-2009 snowmobile season, the cost of the pass is offered at a reduced rate of $180.00 when purchased prior to December 1, 2008 and $240.00 when bought after the December 1st deadline.

Snowmobiling is a unique activity primarily because it can be done by almost anyone from 12 years of age and up (Snowmobile operators permits are required for youth riders). Younger children get to experience the sport by riding as a passenger on the sled or behind it in a specially designed sleigh. Unlike skiing, snowmobiling is available to those with concerns about stress on joints such as knees, hips, elbows etc. Mature riders will find today’s snowmobiles to be quite comfortable as the suspension, seating positions and controls have been updated with new technology and equipment. Riding gear is better than ever. Lightweight materials are used in snow suits, boots & helmets. Heated visors, handlebars and foot warmers make riders forget that they are out in sub zero temperatures.

The ultimate reason to embrace winter and hop on a snow machine is simply to see nature like never before. You have a chance to see places that you could never see otherwise. You can cross frozen swamps and bogs allowing access to places that no other vehicle can take you. Natural streams, valleys and hills offer riders a chance to appreciate nature’s magnificent beauty from a perspective that you just can’t get by driving by in a car, walking a trail or even flying above. Those that have taken the opportunity to meet the land this way will regularly leave with a new respect for our environment and the importance of protecting it.

Share your favorite winter activity with us. See you on the trails!