Skiing Draft
Gliding down snowy slopes or across flat terrain on skis. Alpine skiing uses lifts, while cross-country skiing uses flatter trails.
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How to start
What you need
- Skis, boots and poles (rent at first)
- Helmet
- Goggles and sunglasses
- Layers, waterproof jacket, gloves and warm socks
Typical cost
Lift tickets run $50 to $200 per day; rentals $40 to $80; lessons $50 to $150 (approximate, varies by region).
Where to play
Ski resorts, local hills, cross-country trails and ski schools.
Rules
- Ski areas post a responsibility code (e.g., the skier ahead has right of way).
- Slopes are rated green (easiest), blue, black and double black.
- Control your speed and be able to stop.
- Look uphill before merging onto a trail.
- Stay on marked trails and respect closures.
- Give priority to downhill skiers.
- Use ski straps or brakes to prevent runaway skis.
- Stop only at the side or where visible.
Drills
Wedge turns 15 min
On a gentle slope, point tips together, tails apart, and shift weight to turn.
Straight run and stop 10 min
Glide down a flat run and stop by widening into a wedge.
Side-stepping 8 min
Climb up a slope by stepping sideways with skis across the hill.
Balance on one ski 5 min
Lift one ski briefly while gliding in a flat area.
Lift practice 8 min
Practice loading and unloading from magic carpets or lifts with an instructor.
Etiquette
- Follow the skier's responsibility code and yield to others.
- Do not stop in the middle of a trail.
- Keep lifts moving and clear when you get off.
Safety
- Wear a helmet and check bindings with a technician.
- Dress in layers and protect from cold and sun.
- Stay hydrated and know when to rest.
Levels
- 1First day; learning to stop and turn on green runs.
- 2Comfortable on green runs and some blues.
- 3Skis blues with control and learning parallel turns.
- 4Handles blacks and varied snow conditions.
- 5Expert skier who handles any terrain.
Questions
How do I get started?
Take a first-time lesson and rent gear at a resort.
Is skiing expensive?
It can be; renting and going on weekdays saves money.
Ski vs snowboard?
Skiing is often easier to start, snowboarding easier to progress later.
Draft guide: written from general knowledge and not yet checked by someone who plays skiing. Costs are approximate and vary by city. Check with a coach or doctor before starting anything new.