The heartland of alpine winter sports

Western Austria is home of some of the finest winter sports regions in the world. Located in the center of the Alps, wedged right between Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Italy, the state of Vorarlberg boasts itself as the premier skiing location in the country. The town of St. Anton goes as far as proclaiming itself as the "Cradle of Alpine Skiing". And rightfully so! Situated below the namesake mountain of Arlberg, the region boasts 94 ski lifts, 340 kilometres of artificial and 200 kilometres of natural ski runs. A 4.3 kilometres long sledge track traverses a height difference of 500 meters and offers artificial light, for best use during the shorter days of winter. Most prominent among the winter sports are of course skiing and snowboarding. The large range of tracks offers many different experiences for winter sports enthusiasts of all skill ranges. Ski Mountaineering offers a nice change of pace, with 10 tracks dedicated to this purpose.



Whether you bring your own equipment or not doesn't matter, because ski hire in St. Anton is not a problem. Shops like Sport Alber offer ski rental in St Anton, as well as in the nearby village of Pettneu. For those who want to ski or snowboard, there are few places in the world that come close to Arlberg. 340 kilometres of artificial tracks offer challenge and enjoyment for everyone from beginner to veteran. 200 kilometres of natural tracks welcome those who like steep slopes, deep-snow skiing and action packed snowboarding. For snowboarders there's another "Schmankerl" - as Austrians call special treats: Stanton Park. Stanton Park has established itself as a world-class freestyle snowboarding location. The park is located near the Rendl summit station and offers slightly altered courses each year. Three tracks allow snowboarders to blow off some steam, at a difficulty level they feel comfortable with. Additional tracks and courses are open to anyone at any time, for some freestyle action. It's no surprise that Stanton Park has hosted a number of prestigious competitions over the years.



Attached to ski rental in St Anton are of course skiing and snowboarding schools, where beginners can learn under professional supervision. If you feel up to the task, you can even learn cross country skiing, to enjoy the less crowded natural tracks and a view not everyone gets to see. The personnel is happy to answer any questions regarding tracks, equipment and events in the region. A little less known, but no less worth a visit, is the winter sports region of Tyrol. Located to the east of Arlberg, it too is situated in the centre of the Alps. The capital of Innsbruck has become known as the "capital of alpine winter sports". Whether you want to ride the tracks every day or just want to make a daytrip or two, Innsbruck is a great starting location for both. For those who don't like the big city, the Montafon and the world-famous Kitzbühel valleys offer alternatives. Infrastructure is about on par with Arlberg, though many agree that the landscape and sheer amount of tracks in Arlberg simply can't be matched. Personal tastes differ though, so you're best advised to visit both and decide for yourself.

Kitzbühel is the more exclusive of both locations, offering highest quality hotels and spas and a quieter atmosphere. Montafon caters to travel groups and families, offering a more casual and relaxed attitude for those who're in primarily for the fun, not the sportsmanship. Both regions offer services comparable to ski schools and ski hire in St. Anton, so there is no need to make any compromises in this regard.

Ski rental in St. Anton

Having a pair of ski boots that fit you and feel comfortable is very essential. Ski boots transfer your instructions and movements to your skis. They are very important for safe and enjoyable skiing and will be the first thing to check out at the ski rental in St. Anton. The team at “Sport Alber” will give you information that will help you get on your way to having comfortable and functional ski boots. Ski boots are truely the most important part of your skiing equipment. Aside from the fact that you definitely will not enjoy your time on the slopes if your feet hurt or if your feet are cold, it is important to understand that your boots are the key to your skiing performance. Sport Alber has a long tradition in manufacturing boots and uses certain special methods to provide perfect boots. Before you rent or buy ski boots at the ski hire in St Anton, it's important to make sure that the boots fit properly. The next step is to find out, if your boots are adjusted for optimal skiing. Like normal shoes, not all ski boots that are the same size will fit the same way. Reinforced plastic boots are specific for professional competition like Ski World Cup. The raising of the boot sole is connected to increase the ability to pressurize the ski. The maximum distance between boot sole and foot is regulated, presently at 50mm for men and 45mm for women.



Some brands have wider widths, others become larger or smaller over the time. Very important advice: Try your boots on with the socks that you will be wearing skiing. Make sure that the boots are comfortable. There's nothing worse than skiing all day on boots that hurt your feet and toes. You may have to try on several pairs at the ski rental to find a boot that fits correctly.

How to Choose the Right Ski

Skis are generally made of various materials like wood or composite fibers. They are specially adapted to the wear and tear they undergo during a race. Their performance on the snow depends also on their length, width and shape. These three dimensions vary, depending on the speed and the course. The staff of the ski rental in St. Anton will give your more details on that. Metal edges on the skis are sharpened to make the ski hold during the turn on very icy surfaces. Finding the right skis is certainly doable though, as long as you stay focused on your search. Reading ski reviews is certainly helpful, but still the best expertise comes from people. The Employees at the Ski hire in St. Anton can give you a very professional advice und provide you with boots and skis that fit you perfectly. They test skis themselves and give you exact pros and cons on each model. Most of them are certified instructors so they know their business. Expertise you can rely on: The mostly local employees at the Ski hire in St. Anton/Arlberg are happy to lend an ear to your wishes.