We're so excited that you are trying curling! With a few tips on what to wear and what to use, we know you'll enjoy yourself playing the game.
What to wear to curling
The key is wearing appropriate layers of clothing so that you can manage your temperature while on the ice. The rinks are kept at a low temperature to ensure the ice conditions remain good, and so long sleeves and sweaters are encouraged. You might also consider a hat for warmth. Some introductory programs and curling rinks will offer helmets for those who are apprehensive about being on ice.
The best way to stay safe when curling is proper footwear. You want to find the cleanest pair of athletic shoes you own, ideally with lots of rubber grip on the soles. Do not prioritize fashion! Your shoes should fit snug, be stable, and offer good traction. Every curling rink will have a rubber shoe cover for improved traction, appropriately named a "gripper."
What to use when curling
Curling rinks will provide grippers along with sliders. Sliders are thin pieces of Teflon used only when delivering your rock on your turn to shoot. Sliders may have a band to slip onto your shoe, or they may just be loose for you to step on and off of.
Also provided at curling rinks are brooms or brushes. These are used to sweep the ice directly in front of the path of the curling rock to help it slide further and straighter. Listen for your skip calling the shots to instruct you when you should sweep.
Some curlers will use their broom as a balancing aid when throwing their rocks. Others will use what's called a delivery aid or stabilizer, a small plastic or wooden device to hold in your non-throwing hand to keep balanced while sliding and delivering your rock. They are your best choice when first trying curling.
Curling terminology and tips
Be sure to visit our What is Curling page for a quick summary of curling fundamentals. We hope that it is a fun experience that has you returning to the rink again.
