Erin Mielzynski loves to ski and encourages others to try the sport.
The four-time Olympian from Thornbury shares her love of the hills by urging you to check out the Toronto Ski and Snowboard Show.
She launches the three-day event starting October 28 in Mississauga with all the information you need to strap on skis or a snowboard.
Experts will talk about the best gear, the best hills across Ontario, and all other information new and seasoned skiers need.
It really is your one-stop shop to get suited up for the season, Mielzynski says.
And when it comes to knowing about hitting the hills, she's an expert.
photo by Andrew Mielzinski
"I started racing before I was six," she explains. It was a huge passion of mine, and everyone would have to pull me off the hill." I still love it after being on the National Team for 14 years.
Eventually, her journey took her to the Vancouver Olympics in 2010, followed by three more, including the 2020 games in Beijing.
"The Beijing Olympics was so different with all the testing and restrictions, but once we got there, everything felt normal," she recalls.
"It was nice to be surrounded by all the athletes again and so many people that love winter."
Skiing has been growing in popularity over the last few years, but the one thing people complain about is the cold.
PODCAST: Erin Mielzynski talks about what you need to get started with skiing this year (and more local news)
"I don't love the cold at all," she admits. That's why I'm excited to see what new technologies are out there. There's no such thing as bad or cold weather, just bad planning."
Her planning tips are very simple but brilliant.
Start by wearing lots of layers to keep moisture away from your body so you can add and take away as needed. Merino wool is a good option.
Another game-changer is heated socks. Our Olympian says he wears them regularly and has an extra pair to swap out when she takes a coffee or hot chocolate break.
Speaking of drinks, try filling your thermos with hot tea or lemon water instead of cold water to keep your core warm.
photo by Andrew Mielzinski
Regarding where to ski, Mielzynski says Ontario has lots of opportunities."
Many Ontario athletes go to the Olympics, which shows how competitive we are and how great the ski industry is here. You don't have to go to a ski destination out west.
"I think what we have is pretty spectacular here," she says. "In Blue Mountain, when standing at the top of the escarpment, you see all of Georgian Bay, whether it's sunny or cloudy. I'm always shocked by how amazing it is."
At the Ski & Snowboard show, you can discover what's out there and find a great destination not too far from home.
The show takes place on October 28, 29, and 30. More information can be found here.
