Alpine skiing in Krasnaya Polyana

What you need

1. Lesson with an instructor

   On the resort’s slopes, lessons are taught by instructors cleared by the resort — look for them on the AbsoLive map.

   The master provides
2. Skis with bindings

   A ski technician sets the bindings to your weight and boots — not by eye.

   Center library
3. Boots

   Best tried on in person; from members — if the size matches.

   From partners
4. Poles

   The simplest thing in the kit.

   From members
5. Helmet

   Used helmets don’t change hands on the market: damage from an impact can be invisible. A new one — from a store; for a while — at a rental shop.

   Never passed on
6. Goggles

   With an intact lens and no cracks.

   From members
7. Shell jacket and pants

   Gear for the slope — yes; everyday clothing is AbsoStyle’s field.

   From members
8. Base layers, socks, gloves

   Personal — your own only.

   Your own
9. Ski pass

   Not a thing: it comes from the resort, and a named pass can’t be passed on.

   Not needed to start

After the first season

By the end of the season you know which length and stiffness are yours. That’s when to get your own skis — from a member who is moving on to the next pair, or at a market day at the center.