The ideal equipment for a successful esf course: the pros' checklist
Published on 07/04/2026 - Written by Nadège
From skiing to snowboarding, winter sports professionals always use equipment that is suited to their sport, perfectly maintained, adjusted and checked (waxing, sharpening, etc.).
Competition skiing, freeride, snowboarding... Whatever the activity you choose during your stay in the mountains, it's important to pay attention to your equipment so that you have the chance to train in the best possible conditions in Les Menuires.
To save you time, we've put together a checklist for the pros!
Competition skiing, freeride, snowboarding... Whatever the activity you choose during your stay in the mountains, it's important to pay attention to your equipment so that you have the chance to train in the best possible conditions in Les Menuires.
To save you time, we've put together a checklist for the pros!
Professional equipment for skiing and its various disciplines
Downhill ski racing, off-piste skiing, freestyle... There's equipment for every activity! In all cases, you'll need a pair of skis, a helmet, a goggle and boots that fit.
Off-piste skis are wider for powder snow. Depending on your style of skiing, they may be all-mountain, backcountry or freeride skis. Boots are stiffer than average to give you maximum control off groomed runs. For added safety, you should also wear a back protector or even an airbag, as well as the famous trio: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. Note: this safety equipment is supplied by the esf Les Menuires.
For freestyle skiing, you'll need small, lightweight skis with two raised tips. These are often called "twin-tip skis" for these reasons. Protective gear is also essential: helmet, back protector, protective shorts, wrist guards, knee pads, etc. The choice is yours!
Off-piste skis are wider for powder snow. Depending on your style of skiing, they may be all-mountain, backcountry or freeride skis. Boots are stiffer than average to give you maximum control off groomed runs. For added safety, you should also wear a back protector or even an airbag, as well as the famous trio: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. Note: this safety equipment is supplied by the esf Les Menuires.
For freestyle skiing, you'll need small, lightweight skis with two raised tips. These are often called "twin-tip skis" for these reasons. Protective gear is also essential: helmet, back protector, protective shorts, wrist guards, knee pads, etc. The choice is yours!
Freestyle skiing for the daringA freestyle skiing course for teenagers!What do professional snowboarders use in the mountains?
Snowboarding disciplines also vary.
For freestyle snowboarding, choose a board with a twin (100% symmetrical) or near-twin shape for greater stability and a more pleasant manoeuvre when performing your tricks. You'll also need soft to intermediate bindings, as well as soft boots and protectors.
For freeride snowboarding, opt for a directional board (wide nose, narrow tail), responsive bindings and stiffer boots. All this will help you to stay stable, even at full speed!
For freeride snowboarding, opt for a directional board (wide nose, narrow tail), responsive bindings and stiffer boots. All this will help you to stay stable, even at full speed!
Prepare for your esf course with our instructors!
In Les Menuires, as elsewhere, it's important to choose the right equipment for your chosen discipline, because conditions are not the same from one sport to another (groomed slopes, powder snow, etc.). Skis and boards, boots and shoes... There is a wide variety of models on the market today, precisely to meet the needs of all skiers and snowboarders.
And don't forget to choose warm, comfortable clothing. Go for the 'three-layer' trend, and opt for thermal tops and leggings, pullovers or sweatshirts, as well as a waterproof jacket and trousers. Accessories include a hat, neck warmer, high socks and gloves.
Given the altitude (1,850 metres), you should also keep a factor 50 sun cream to hand, as UV rays are particularly dangerous in the mountains. If you follow all these recommendations, you should find it easier to cope with the cold and enjoy your esf course with our instructors!
And don't forget to choose warm, comfortable clothing. Go for the 'three-layer' trend, and opt for thermal tops and leggings, pullovers or sweatshirts, as well as a waterproof jacket and trousers. Accessories include a hat, neck warmer, high socks and gloves.
Given the altitude (1,850 metres), you should also keep a factor 50 sun cream to hand, as UV rays are particularly dangerous in the mountains. If you follow all these recommendations, you should find it easier to cope with the cold and enjoy your esf course with our instructors!
Do you have a competitive streak?Discover our course dedicated to competitive skiing!