Monday, March 26, 2012

An early spring weekend in Vail

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


With all the lamentations about the lack of snow this spring break, we thought we would review how fun a weekend in Vail, Colorado can be - plenty to see and do!


Start off your weekend by grabbing a lane at Bol, the upscale bowling alley right in the heart of the village. Drop the kids (or disinterested associates!) at the Solaris ice rink right outside for a lap or two, while you sample some of the fine mixed cocktails the barman has to offer. We love Pamm's Cup with all its syrupy goodness. Gather your crew and head to the bowling alleys in the back. Open from 2pm onwards and at $50 an hour per lane, you can have your food and drinks served as you bowl up a storm. 






Now we are of the opinion that the skiing is still enjoyable, we may not be chest deep in powder and grabbing face shots all day; but sometimes a sunny Saturday spent skiing soft spring snow is all you really need. So bring out those lightweight layers and coats (see our previous post for suggestions) and enjoy Vail's end of season lift ticket specials. 


Vail Lift Ticket Prices Mar 7 - Apr 8



After a day out in the sun and the subsequent nap, nothing beats an ice cold beverage, alcoholic or otherwise, and a delicious meal. While the evening away sampling the creations of the master chefs at Yama Sushi, Vail's newest sushi restaurant. Make sure to try the Black Widow Roll, if not for the scrumptious taste, for the exciting preparation - the topping of tuna is fire torched just before serving. Check out their menu for some more prime selections. Yama Sushi Menu


As a child, there was nothing I enjoyed more than a buffet. In fact, it is still the best part about being on vacation. All you can eat pastries, made to order omelets and bottomless fresh juices; who could ask for more? Enjoy your well earned tradition at Ludwig's Restaurant in the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail Village.
 
 Served from 7am to Noon on a Sunday, end off your weekend with an air of contentment as you stroll off your stuffed stomach around town, enjoying the end of season sales. And who knows, maybe even supporting some local businesses! We hope to see you this weekend...










Monday, March 19, 2012

Essentials for spring skiing fun


Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Spring is here and that means a slight change to your regular skiing attire. Warmer weather, combined with wet snow and sunny skies require just the right setup to keep you skiing right up to the mountain’s closing day.


Something we have been getting more and more requests for and that should be your first port of call; is a spring ski shell. Whether it is a waterproof Gore-Tex piece you layer up under the rest of the year, or a lightweight softshell that cuts the wind and keeps you cool; springtime skiing is a breeze with lighter gear. Here are some of our favourites that are highly breathable and versatile for the rest of the year too.


1. Arcteryx Acto MX Jacket
An extremely light hard fleece that cuts the wind and has a moisture wicking insulating layer.
Arcteryx Acto

2. Millet Kitchana Windstopper Hoody
Fully windproof and highly breathable, this jacket doubles as a cycling or city piece in the summer.

3. Patagonia Simple Guide Jacket
Boasting pack ability, durability and wear ability, from the city streets to the sunny ski hill.

With temperatures rising as the day goes by; sweaty, clammy hands can ruin a ski day fast. Some glove choices to replace the beefy winter mitts you love...

1. Hestra Ski Cross 
Complete with funky spring colours, these gloves are soft, supple and just warm enough.

2. Black Diamond Arc Gloves
Extremely breathable and lightweight, while being fully waterproof; the Arcs double as a ski touring glove year round when it’s too cold to use them on the hill.

3. Outdoor Research Crave Gloves
Waterproof leather and a soft feel gives these gloves a sleek under the cuff look.

You want to be warm yet comfortable; both while riding on the chair lift, and whizzing down a freshly groomed Riva or carving through soft corn snow in the Back Bowls. Make sure to choose a thin, moisture wicking first layer to insulate your core.

1. Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew
A tight fitting merino wool base layer will keep you well ventilated and chanting the Icebreaker motto of ‘Think Don’t Stink’ as you enjoy day after day of odour free wear.

2. Mountain Hardwear Butter Line for Men and Women
Super soft and comfy against the skin, the Butter series has moisture wicking properties as well as UPF sun protection for multiple uses year round.

3. Patagonia Capilene Level 2 Layers
Thin yet warm, stretchy yet durable, Patagonia Capilene is the original performance baselayer. Level 2 (lightweight) is perfect for this time of the year.

Just some of our favourites here at the Bag and Pack – stop by at our Avon or Vail store to check our stocks and for any further suggestions to help you enjoy the rest of the ski season!