subject: Ski at Night with Light Bulbs [print this page] Night skiing is one of those great opportunities that light bulbs make possible. Without light bulbs, night skiing would be relegated to blind runs that would most likely end up in ditches or slamming into trees. HID light bulbs such as mercury vapor and metal halide brightly light up the night (although light pollution is another story) and extend the hours we can enjoy skiing.
Energy efficient light bulbs might not be the best in cold weather situations standard for night skiing. High wattage compact fluorescent light bulbs might work, as they run at 150 to 200 watts (compared to over 400 for metal halide and mercury vapor light bulbs). Wattage like that is reminiscent of incandescent light bulbs and most likely produces a decent amount of heat to counteract the cold. Even if energy efficient light bulbs don't work well enough, the mercury vapor and metal halide light bulbs currently in use do a great job, inefficiency notwithstanding.
Skiing at night offers a lot of benefits. Night skiing lift tickets are almost always cheaper than day lift tickets, and there are way less skiers vying for the lifts and ski lanes. It's easier to find the right lanes on which to ski, as not many resorts keep all skiable lanes open for night skiing. You can even expect music playing throughout the ski course at some resorts! Night skiing is the perfect opportunity to take ski lessons as well; most instructors offer night lessons and can provide more personal coaching with less pupils.
Even the pros like to engage in night skiing from time to time, as it affords precious extra practice time. Taking a cue from the pros, many resorts now offer night racing leagues for kids and adults. It sounds like a lot of fun, and something that would be great to try out in the coming winter season.
