Champions start young. [Richard Price, Ski Utah]

Children feel extremes of temperature more severely than adults. In case of doubt, they should be dressed too warmly, rather than risk exposure. Gloves, hats and goggles should be attached to small children who might otherwise lose them. A crash helmet is advisable for little speeders. Children are especially vulnerable to sunburn, so make sure that they are adequately protected. Sunglasses or goggles may be too large at first, but eye protection is vital.

For infants, skis are made of lightweight plastic, with no sharp edges and plastic loops for bindings. They often have fish scales on the base, to prevent sliding backwards. They are worn with normal 'après-ski' boots, but are only for real toddlers as no technical progress can be made on them. Poles have a 'sword-grip' handle, since a loop is too fussy. Needless to say, boots should be comfortable and warm. Sometimes it may be difficult to find ski boots that are small enough.

Children's skis are shorter, softer versions of adult skis. Initial length should be around shoulder height. Unless the child skis several weeks a year, it is advisable to rent while the child is growing. Alternatively, invest in an economy model, but make sure the bindings are of sufficiently high quality.