MySnowBuddy connects local skiers and snowboarders on Facebook

A new, locally developed Facebook application aims to bring together skiers and snowboarders in the Lower Mainland and across Western Canada.

MySnowBuddy, which launched last month, is geared toward active 16- to 30-year-old winter-sports enthusiasts. The app helps people plan future ski and snowboarding trips. It also allows users to meet others with common interests, buy and sell winter gear, and stay up to date on snow conditions at local ski areas including Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, Whistler Blackcomb, and Hemlock Valley.

After adding the application to Facebook, it’s easy to get started. New users are asked to create a small profile, choosing their preferred sport (ski, snowboard, or cross-country), selecting their stance and skill level, and adding a brief description of themselves. By providing an e-mail address, users may be offered discounts on lift passes, hotels, and restaurants. Currently, the app has 321 active users.

MySnowBuddy encourages users to share rides up to the local mountains. It’s possible to list and find rides based on date, location, and mountain destination. The discussion board also allows users to share their experiences and to discuss related topics such as where to buy cheap ski gear.

The app’s developers hope the ride-share option will lessen the hassle of transportation for local skiers as well as ease the difficulty of parking, both during and after the Olympics.