by: Lisa Mercer

As the holidays approach, you're probably wondering

what gifts to buy for your favorite skiers.

Fortunately, the Internet has eliminated the need for

long lines at department stores. Spend your time on

the slopes, and purchase your gifts online! If you're

not sure of what to buy, look into an REI Gift Card.

You can either get them as E-cards, which are emailed

to the recipient or as paper cards which will be

mailed in three or four business days. REI also has a

gift registry.

If your skier wants something very specific, such as a

jacket, a helmet, ski boots, or a pair of ski pants,

encourage them to register. That way, you will be sure

to pick the right size. REI also has gift boxes and

cards are available.

If you are looking for a specific, personalized gift,

you'll need to carefully consider your skiers' tastes

and preferences. What colors do they usually wear?

What items do they need? What things do they already

have, but can be frequently lost?

Gloves, neck gators and ski locks fall into to the

last category. Some skiers spend nearly as much money

replacing these items as they do on lift tickets! Fill

a Christmas stocking with small items such as ski

socks, goggle wipes, hand warmers, and a neck gator.

For an extra surprise, throw in a gift certificate for

a lift ticket or a lesson with their favorite

instructor. Or else, why not give a gift that will

simplify their travel to the mountains?

If your skier is someone whose work keeps them married

to their computer, consider a computer backpack from

REI. These bags put an end to complaints about

carrying gear and computers simultaneously. Hide a set

of thermal underwear inside the bag as a surprise! You

can make their travel even easier by buying them a

SporTube Ski Case that can be wheeled through airports

or parking lots. Make walking through icy parking lots

safer by throwing in a pair of Yaktrax Walkers.

Backpacks and ski bags also make great gifts for kids,

since you don't have to worry about them outgrowing

them. Winter pajamas are also a great option, because

you can buy them baggy enough to last a few years. For

kids between the ages of 4-8, keep them excited about

the snow by getting them a pair of Redfeather Snow

Shoes.

Paragon sports can keep the kids in shape for ski

season with the Profile Body Ball.

Since no adult skier should be without a stability

ball, Paragon also has the Valeo Body Ball, complete

with wall chart.