Winter is on our doorsteps, and it's time to think about getting out your ski gear and checking it out. Most likely they are due for a good tune up, or maybe you need a new pair.

It's time for new skis—

OK, you know it's time for new skis and get rid of the old ones this season. You know, the ones with the gouges taken out of the edges, chunks from the bottoms along with those unsightly scratches and cracks covering the surface.

Then again, maybe you're looking for that first pair, having never been on skis before. You have the ski bug and you're ready to go out and buy.

Check out your equipment—

Technology in skis and boots has changed dramatically over the past few years, and although skiing and snowboading are considered dangerous sports, equipment is safer that ever.

First timers and novice skiers should check out new equipment in ski magazines, going to ski shows or stopping by your local ski shop to find out what's new. It would be best to rent or demo equipment before you spend some cold hard cash on skis or boots that may not be the type you're looking for.

New skis come in all shapes and sizes as seen here at the Sugarloaf Ski Shop. Demo or rent first, then talk with an experienced ski rep before making your choice. (Dan Cassidy photo) Do it the safe way—

If you're a first timer, go to a mountain and take a learn-to-ski or ride program.

For the novice to expert skiers, and for those who haven't been on skis for a long time, bring your wish list to a ski shop, and also have in mind the type of skiing that you want to do.

Many mountain ski shops and local shops have ski and snowboading packages that will fit your budget. Packages include skis, poles, boots and bindings, and many can be purchased for under $400. These packages can be made up for young skier's teens and older ski enthusiasts.

What to look for—

When you're looking at buying new ski equipment, boots should be one third of your budget. Boots are where you need to spend your time.

Develop a relation with ski techs—

The better relation a skier has with ski techs, the better. At the Sugarloaf ski shop, technicians usually ask skiers three questions about skiing: "1. What type skier they are? 2. What trails do they like to ski? 3. How many days do they plan to ski?"

Once the ski tech finds those answers, they can find the level of equipment that will match the level of the skier.

Buying boots

Boots are molded differently and it's best to try at least three different brands before buying.

Most ski shop owners say that it's important to talk with the ski pros at a ski shop. Tell them how you ski or if it's the first time. Remember, you don't have to go over your head or over your budget to get those first pair of boards.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you're buying boots, don't be afraid to come back if you're having problems with them. The techs in many ski shops can make adjustments to the boots to make them more comfortable. In some cases, the weight factor is more important than height.

Demo skis—

Some ski shops will offer demo equipment and give discounts on your purchase once you have found the right skis for you. Ask them what their policy is. You may also get a good deal in ski maintenance, such as tune-ups, waxing, stone grinding and sharpening.

Some skis shops on and off the mountains allow the skier to demo the skis and boots, and then deduct the demo price off the package they buy.

There are many styles of skis out today. If you've been skiing on the straight long sticks, it's time to change into shorter shaped skis.

Comparing the skis you probably skied on several years ago to new shaped skis are almost like going from rack-and-pinion steering to power steering. Don't just settle for low-end novice skis, especially if you want to improve your performance. By getting a pair of higher level skis, you'll be work a little harder, but the challenge may make you a better skier.

Skiers who are considering getting back into the sport should plan ahead before they buy. You should spend a little more on better equipment that will last longer, such as better fitting boots and better skis. However, you don't have to over-buy.

Renting equipment—

Renting skis and boots at the mountain is possibly the best idea for first timers and for those who haven't been on the boards for a long time. That way, if you have a problem, or don't like either the skis or boots, the rental facility will be close by for a quick change-over. Be honest with the ski techs as to the type of skier you are, the terrain you're comfortable on and where you want to be towards the end of the season. In other words, don't get outfitted with a pair of high performance skis, or boots if you're not an aggressive type skier. High performance means just that, "get up and let 'em rip," the faster and steeper the better.

Accident waiting to happen—

Skiing is a fun sport but it can turn into a tragedy, especially if you decide to take the 'cheap' way out and borrow someone else's equipment. Today's ski bindings have DIN settings that are set to calculate your boot size, weight and skiing ability. Don't be an accident waiting to happen. It could be serious, such as a breaking your leg or injuring someone else on the slopes.

Some mountain and local ski shops have junior programs for younger skiers and riders. You can purchase a package deal, then next season trade in the equipment and get credit towards a new package.

Women's skis and boots—

A woman's body is much different than a man's. The center of body mass is lower than a man. You should get skis that are made especially for women, which are lighter in weight, have more flex and the bindings are mounted slightly forward than men's skis. Women's boots are also made differently, according to skiing experts. Women's hips are different, making them stand slightly different than a man. When trying them on, make sure the boots are made for the woman in mind.

Skis likewise are made differently. They have a flex and shape pattern. The bindings are set and adjusted to the back center of gravity.

Ski maintenance—

Taking care of your skis is important. It will really impact your experience on the mountain.

The Sugarloaf Ski Shop offers a ski tuning package where you buy five and get the sixth free. Skis should be waxed or ground down about three to four times out and a get a tune-up about every 15-20 days of skiing.

Get those skis tuned up at the beginning of the season. Really, don't wait, do it now. Ski tuning packages can be purchased at many ski shops. Happy Tunes offers a multi-tune $100 pass where you'll get $125 of Happy service that is renewable with no restrictions. There is also a Season Tune Pass for $249 that offers unlimited Happy service on one pair of skis. Restrictions apply. Happy Tunes also offers custom boot fitting.

Before we hit the slopes, you still have time to get the family in shape. Take walks, get to a gym, bike ride, take some hikes in the woods, anything to get out and enjoy what's left of fall. Snow will be here soon and there's a lot of winter ahead.

Use your head! Ski and ride safely and don't forget to wear a helmet.