• Our Bunnies (level 1) start at age 5 and should have proper waxless skis and bindings - typically the skis should be no longer than 100 to 130 cm. Poles are not needed for Bunnies and in fact we discourage their use as they interfere with learning proper balance.
• For Level 2 we still recommend waxless skis with a contemporary binding (i.e. New Nordic Norm or Salomon - not 3-pin). The skis should still be shorter rather than longer and should have a length somewhere between the top of the head and an outstretched arm. We ski on very hilly terrain and it is important to be able to master the snow plow stopping techique and herring bone climbing technique, both which are easier to learn on shorter rather than longer skis.
• For Level 3 we still recommend a waxless ski but a better quality ski is warranted as the skiers continue to develop their classic technique. Skating is also introduced at these levels and the Club has skis available. A sturdy combi style ski boot is recommended (compatible with Salomon bindings to use the Club skate skis) to be able to switch back and forth between classic and skate skiing.
• For Level 4 (and the Racing Rabbit Program) we recommend the skiers have both good quality classic (either fast waxless or waxable) and skate skis.

"Poor equipment, equipment that doesn't fit, or skis that are poorly prepared for the snow conditions may lead to a negative ski experience that can have a lasting impression on a child."

- BCR Ski Leader Manual

The following are general guidelines to assist parents in determining what kinds of equipment their children actually need.

Ski Bunny or Level 1 Age Group

This program is directed at children four to five years of age. A child's first ski equipment set would include a pair of no-wax skis. The poles are best introduced at Level 2 but if desired, the poles should be a 'classic' length (with the pole tip in the snow, the pole height would reach the under arm). Initial on-snow play does not require long skis, and they should be approximately the same height as the skier. It is better for the child to outgrow their skis than to grow into them.

Select a binding that is not difficult to operate, but is not prone to releasing either. Typically, young Bunny age children have adult assistance with their bindings.

Skiers at Level 2

The age group for this badge is usually six to seven years. For learning the skills required at this level and skiing at Cypress Mountain, it is preferable to have non-wax skis.

Skiers at Level 3

The age group for this badge level is usually eight to nine years. Skating technique is officially introduced to the skill development sessions at this point in the skill progressions. The child can learn skating technique skills while using classic skis, but they now require both skating length poles and classic length poles. The Hollyburn Jackrabbits do have a selection of skate skis and poles that are lent out for the duration of the lesson where skate skiing is being practiced.

Skiers at Level 4

The age group for this badge level is usually 9 to 10 years. The equipment requirements at this skill level are the same as for Level 3. Eventually, parents may wish to provide the child with two sets of equipment (both skating and classic) if their ski skills and future involvement in the sport appear to warrant the investment.

SKIS

• Classic skis should reach just below the wrist of the skier's outstretched arm, with the camber suitable for classic skiing.
• Skating skis should be 3-4 cm above the head of the skier.
• If the skis are not the correct length the skier will have difficulty mastering the technical skills necessary to become competent in the sport.

• Poles must have adjustable straps.
• Classic poles should reach under the arm when the skier is standing on the floor.
• If poles are too long or too short, the skier will have difficulty mastering the technical skills necessary to become competent in the sport.