Downhill skiing typically using chairlifts to get up to higher ground for decents. Often mistakenly referred to as a catch-all for the term 'skiing'.
The period after a long day on the slopes to relax around a fire with a drink, party, go to dinner, or take a hot soak in the outdoor jacuzzi!
A mass of loosened snow or ice that suddenly and swiftly slides down a mountain, forming one of the few real dangers a skier can face.
The average depth of snow on a mountain.
The connector between the ski boot and the ski. In the event of a fall, the skier is able to twist out of the binding to release the ski.
A person who skis too fast or out of control.
A tight turn made with the edge of the ski.
Skiing on a flat, snowy surface using the body for momentum and resistance. The best aerobic exercise possible!
Gravity-induced skiing down a mountain!
Controlling turns with the edge of your skis.
Pushing your ski expertise to its limit by conquering a steep run, uncharted mountain, or severe ledge!
The most direct route down the mountain, often involuntarily taken by falling skiers!
A serious condition that takes place in extremely cold conditions, when part of your body freezes. This usually happens to the face or other unprotected areas.
The tricky art of skiing between trees.
Essential protective eye wear used to guard against ultraviolet rays, wind, and snow.
Usually from February to early March. During this time, lift tickets and hotels are more expensive.
A person who takes jumps off small cliffs and performs tricks on skis.
An easier option for beginners turning on steep slopes.
A skier who is skiing out of control across the slopes.
Mushy, wet snow.
The first run of the day.
Mounds and lumps of snow, some natural and others created by skiers.
Designated off-trail areas that are ungroomed, unpatrolled, and usually unsafe.
A turn in which the skis are kept parallel to each other.
French word for trail.
A round, lightweight shaft with a basket and spike on the lower end, a handle and strap at the upper end.
Light, ungroomed snow.
A surface lift straddled by skiers, with a plastic disc to sit on.
Also called hourglass skis or shaped skis. They are designed to give speed and control, responding to the slightest pressure.
A moving rope that skiers grab to be towed up the mountain.
Tracks created by over-skiing that can make for treacherous skiing conditions.
To ski straight down the hill.
A race that combines downhill speed with technical ability. The course is marked with gates that are not in a straight line, so the skier has to make a whole series of quick turns while racing down the slope.
A popular beginner technique for stopping and turning. The front tips of the skies almost touch, while the back tips are bowed outwards.
A T-shaped rope tow on which two skiers balance in sitting positions and are pulled to the top.
Type of downhill turn and style of turning typically involving one ski slid forward and a distinctive forward bent knee position.
To ski across the mountain rather than down.
A soft substance applied to the base of a ski for protection and to improve its snow-going properties.
Poor visibility due to a combination of fog and snow. Usually occurs at high altitudes.
Taking wind spped into account when determining apparent temperature.
A fall that leaves skis and poles in various places on the mountainside!