As an experienced skier with years of skiing under my belt and visits to over a dozen ski resorts worldwide, I’ve noticed some common mistakes that beginners should avoid. To enhance your skiing experience, it’s essential to wear proper gear and be mindful of your surroundings.
When I was a child, I was not athletic and dreaded skiing, as it meant struggling through ski school while my parents enjoyed the slopes. Despite starting ski school before regular school, I excelled more in the classroom than on the slopes. However, as an adult skier with improved athleticism, I’ve had the opportunity to ski at various resorts, including those in Utah, Colorado, the Canadian Rockies, and the French Alps.
Ski resorts have their etiquette systems that can be challenging to grasp, and I’ve observed beginners making similar mistakes repeatedly regardless of the location. If you’re new to skiing and want to avoid standing out as a beginner, here are some common errors to steer clear of:
1. Holding up the line: Wait for your complete group before entering the chairlift line together. Avoid trying to save a spot for a friend, as it can inconvenience other parties eager to board the lift. Make any boot or gear adjustments before joining the line to prevent blocking its entrance. When merging lanes without a lift operator directing groups, be attentive to your turn and let others go ahead accordingly.
2. Tailgating: Maintain a reasonable distance between your skis and the person in front of you while queueing up for the lift to prevent stepping on their shoes or boots. Ski with ample space between yourself and the skier ahead to avert accidents.
3. Planning your lift dismount: Collaborate with fellow chairlift riders to determine your direction upon dismounting to prevent collisions. Keep moving once you exit the chair to allow those behind you a clear pathway for departure.
4. Staying in your lane: Progress beyond beginner techniques like “pizza” and “french fry” to execute parallel turns for safe downhill skiing. Avoid zooming straight down the slope, as it can lead to loss of control. Stick to one side of the trail on busier slopes to leave ample space for other skiers.
5. Choosing a suitable mid-mountain rest stop: Avoid stopping in the middle of the trail, akin to parking on a highway. Pull over to the side of the trail when you need to take a break to prevent obstructing other skiers. Before rejoining the slope, check uphill for approaching skiers and wait for an opportune moment to resume skiing.
While skiing, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow proper etiquette on the slopes. Downhill skiers typically have the right of way, as they may not see you coming from behind. As the uphill skier, it is your responsibility to ensure that you maintain a safe distance and avoid any potential collisions.
When it comes to choosing the right outfit and gear for skiing, practicality should be a key consideration. While there are no strict fashion rules in skiing, it is advisable to avoid overly tight designer ski suits that may not be suitable for the sport’s physical demands, such as falling and bending over frequently. Opting for attire in bright colors can help enhance visibility on the slopes and reduce the risk of accidents. Conversely, wearing white clothing may make it harder for other skiers to spot you, potentially leading to unnecessary collisions.
One essential piece of gear that should not be overlooked is a helmet. Regardless of skill level, wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a fall. Even experienced skiers can unexpectedly lose their balance on flat terrain, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions to protect oneself while skiing.
These tips not only promote safety on the slopes but also contribute to an overall enjoyable skiing experience. By being mindful of others, choosing appropriate attire, and prioritizing safety equipment, skiers can minimize risks and make the most of their time on the mountain.
For further insights and tips on skiing etiquette and safety, refer to the original article on Business Insider.
