Frequently Asked Questions

Q: WHAT SKILL LEVEL DO I NEED TO BE AT TO ATTEND MS E SKI ACADEMY?

Ms E Ski Academy lessons are designed for everyone that is physically able to walk in ski boots. Specifically, we cater our lessons to anyone who is 5 years of age and older. It would be great if you have experience but it is not a requirement since our beginner lessons meet you where you're at to help you gain endurance and skill over time. We also provide you with detailed feedback every step of the way to help you achieve your particular goal. 

Q: HOW DOES THE BOOKING WORK?
First, it is recommended to assess your ability then scroll to the bottom of the page and view our class packs. Or, explore affordable drop-in camps on The Academy page and register. From there, you may want to decide whether you want to try a no-commitment lesson or book several lessons from our package deals. Now, you are set to register. Please ensure you contact Ms E at least 1-2 weeks in advance to allow enough notice. You will automatically receive a Google Calendar invite to your email where you can choose to change the date or time of the booking. We will respond within 24 hours to confirm your desired date(s), and request payment by e-transfer to info@mseskiacademy.com which will secure your spot. The rates are fixed and there are no taxes on our lessons.

Q: ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES?
If your lesson is located outside of the North Vancouver district, a distance fee of $25 will be applied to offset travel and ticket expenses.

Q: IT IS MY FIRST LESSON. WHAT NOW?
Depending on you or your group's declared level, the instructor will prepare a lesson plan and send it to the person who booked the event. This lesson plan can be shared amongst participants. We may discuss splitting up the 2-hour, 3-hour or 6-hour lesson if skills to better fit your needs. We try our best to keep classes together and give a fair amount of feedback and instruction time to all members in the group.

Q: WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL A LESSON?
Please aim to give notice more than 24-48 hours in advance. You must consider that the instructor incurs fees to travel and pay for a lift ticket. If you cancel within less than 24 hours, you will only receive 50% of your payment back for your scheduled lesson. Our online booking tool makes it easy to reschedule and/or cancel if needed. In order to respect the instructor's time. We will apply the same rule if we need to cancel, and you can request a full refund or book another date.

Q: WHAT TYPE OF SKILLS CAN I LEARN?
Our tried and tested method developed over many years is comparable to the type of lesson offered at a traditional ski school. We are focused on building and developing techniques in skiing to get you off the bunny hill and onto the big slopes. However, we are also mindful about following your inner pace or hesitations. You will gain confidence by encountering the snow by manipulating the ski for walking, sliding, climbing, perfecting a wedge or side stopping, turning in varying shapes, carving and handling bumps. Apart from this, you will also learn about common scenarios (i.e., falling, keeping balance, riding a chairlift and navigating the mountain safely). 

This training is not for: off-piste/ backcountry skiing or touring across rigorous terrains

Q: WHAT TIME DO I NEED TO SHOW UP FOR LESSONS
Please show up and be ready in your gear 15 minutes before the lesson in order to start on time. Be sure to use the facilities and be sufficiently nourished with food and water. Looking forward to meeting you!

Q: WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON TRAIL TYPES AND WHICH ONES WILL WE FOCUS ON?
The answer depends on your ability. Usually we start on Green circles and then incorporate more blue square runs. Black diamonds are reserved for skiers that show incredible ability and self-confidence and even though it is not common to end up there on your first season, we always encourage talent when we see it!

Green circle: Easy. This is the simplest trail on the mountain. They are groomed, wide, and have a grade of only 6 to 25 percent.

Blue square: Moderate. These well-groomed slopes are slightly steeper than greens (with a gradient of 25 to 40 percent), but also the busiest as they’re popular among beginner to moderate skiers.

Black diamond: Hard. Typically found at the top of the mountain, these trails are steep at a grade of at least 40% and are susceptible to rough conditions (think ice spots, rocks, and narrow lines). You’d be smart to avoid these on your first (and second and third) ski trip. Once you gain some skill, though, they’re a fun challenge that’ll test your athleticism, reflexes, and conditioning.

Q: WHAT DO I BRING FOR MY LESSON?
Please refer to the page for Packing list for further details.

Q: WHERE DO I GET MY EQUIPMENT FROM?
You may rent with the mountain resort by booking a chairlift ticket on the resort's website. Be sure to also check out local second-hand sporting stores and look for deals online.

Q: WHAT ARE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SKIING? ARE YOU LIABLE FOR INJURY?
Although skiing is relatively safe when going with a private instructor, they are still possible. However, just like in any sport, you are assuming the risk of injury, loss of life, and stolen or damaged property. 

If you still aren't sure about something, please feel free to reach out!