I feel there’s just as much of a learning curve to learn how to ski as there is to learn how to dress, how to gear up, and how to actually get to the slopes with all the gear.

In my first year learning to ski, my three-year-old son was also learning. So I was juggling my equipment, his equipment, and likely trying to carry him at times during a long walk from the car to the slopes.

When I went skiing with my dad, I quickly noticed he wasn’t struggling nearly as much as I was because he created a cheap, DIY method for carrying his skis over his shoulder, that I feel is worth sharing. As a mom, I certainly appreciate anything hands-free.

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Materials Needed

I came to learn there are similar products out there that you can purchase:

But, for dad’s cheap and easy version, all you need is a shoulder strap you might have lying around the house that might strap to a piece of luggage or a duffle bag with clips on the end, and a small purchase from home Depot.

I purchased two Keeper Orange Wrap-It-Up Caribiner Straps for roughly $3.00 apiece at Home Depot. These were located in a section with other straps like luggage straps or straps to tow straps.

If you don’t have a shoulder strap lying around the house, Home Depot sells similar shoulder straps.

The How To

The carabiners come attached to the velcro straps, so all you have to do is clip your shoulder strap into the carabiners.

Next, wrap the velcro straps around your skis and poles above and below the bindings.

My dad likes to hang his skis in the garage using the straps.

Then, toss them over your shoulder, or across your body even, and enjoy heading to the slopes without having to try to juggle your skis and poles in your hands. It’s that simple!

One thing to keep in mind is that you will have to store the straps somewhere while you ski. So you’ll either need to throw them in your pocket, or you can throw them in a locker if you chose to get one.

I hope you found this helpful. Leave a comment or tag me on Instagram @adventureswkelly. I’d love to know if you’ve used this method to carry your ski gear. And if you use a different method, I’d like to know that too. Happy ski adventures!