Getting your kid on skis is one of the best things you can do as a Portland family. Mt. Hood is an hour and a half away. There are night skiing options. The season runs November to May — sometimes longer at Timberline. But gearing up a kid can feel overwhelming, especially when they're growing out of everything every year.

Rent or Buy?

For kids under 10, renting almost always makes more sense. They're growing fast. Boots that fit in December won't fit in March. A seasonal rental gives them a properly sized setup for the whole winter without the commitment of buying gear they'll outgrow.

Our beginner package starts at $40/day for kids, or $179 for the full season. That includes skis or a snowboard, boots, and a helmet. Everything fitted in-store by an instructor.

Once they're around 11-12 and growth is slowing down, buying starts to make sense — especially boots.

Skis or Snowboard?

Ages 3-6: Start with Skiing

Young kids need the stability of two independent legs. Snowboarding requires core strength, balance, and body awareness that most kids under 6 just don't have yet. They'll spend more time on the ground than on the board.

Ages 7+: Let Them Choose

Some kids take to snowboarding naturally. Others prefer skiing. Neither is better — it's about what gets them excited to go back.

The Helmet Is Non-Negotiable

This isn't a suggestion. Kids fall. A lot. They fall backward, sideways, and into things. A helmet is the bare minimum safety gear. Read our helmet fit guide for sizing tips.

Make sure it fits snug — it should sit level on the head, not tilted back. The chin strap should be tight enough that you can fit one finger between the strap and their chin. If it wobbles when they shake their head, it's too loose.

We include helmets in all kids rental packages. If buying, look for MIPS-equipped helmets from Smith,POC, or Anon.

Boot Fitting for Kids

The biggest mistake parents make: buying boots a size bigger so they "grow into them." An oversized boot means no control. Your child can't steer, can't stop properly, and will get frustrated.

Kids' ski boots should fit snug with a little room to wiggle toes. One pair of thin, moisture-wicking ski socks is all they need. Cotton socks make feet cold and sweaty.

Layers, Not Bulk

The biggest comfort killer for kids is being overdressed. A cold kid can add a layer. An overheated kid in a parka over a hoodie over a sweater is miserable and can't move.

  • Base layer: Synthetic or merino wool. Not cotton.
  • Mid layer: Fleece or light insulation. Something they can unzip.
  • Outer layer: Waterproof jacket and pants. The PNW is wet — waterproofing is more important than insulation.
  • Hands: Mittens are warmer than gloves for small hands. Waterproof is essential.
  • Neck: A thin gaiter. Scarves are a tangling hazard.

Lessons First

Resist the urge to teach your own kid. It rarely goes well. Parents get frustrated. Kids get stubborn. Everyone has a bad day.

Our Tiny Slider program takes kids as young as 3 on the indoor ski machine. By the time they get to the mountain, they already know how to stop and turn. That confidence makes the first mountain day so much better.

Making It a Habit

  • Get a seasonal rental so you're not dealing with pickups every trip
  • Keep the gear in the car Friday night
  • Leave early Saturday morning, ski until 2, home for dinner
  • Mix up the mountains — Meadows, Skibowl, Timberline — so kids don't get bored

The goal is to build a lifetime habit. The gear should make that easier, not harder.