What are the different types of skiing?

Resorts offer slopes classified according to difficulty. They also provide other snow activities. Choosing a suitable pair of skis for the planned activities is therefore necessary. It all starts with a good knowledge of the different types of skis.

Piste skiing, a classic

As its name suggests, this type of ski is designed for the slopes. It makes learning easier and allows experts to demonstrate their skills. In fact, this is the model used in competitions such as downhill, slalom, super-G or even the Olympic Games. Before reaching the top, all great champions started by wearing piste skis.

Like riding a bicycle, adopting the right posture and mastering balance are the first challenges faced by beginners in the discipline. These skis allow you to practice safely and with family, as every member will find a pair suited to their feet. At first, you can start with runs without any turns before gradually increasing the level of difficulty.

Mini skis for fun

Formerly called Snowblades, mini skis are distinguished by their length, being much shorter than piste skis. Their main purpose is enjoyment, to experience the joy of skiing without worrying about performance. This version is suitable for gentle slopes, because as speed increases, controlling them becomes much more difficult.

Easy to use, short skis are an excellent way to enjoy the fresh mountain air with your children. Manufacturers have designed a binding system that releases the feet if necessary, that is to say, in the event of a fall. Of course, following safety instructions remains essential. If you plan to tackle a more difficult run or descend a steeper slope, mini skis are not recommended.

All-mountain skis, an all-terrain option

Resort operators take the time to groom the slopes so that they are as smooth as possible. To vary the fun, they also allow skiers to escape onto off-piste runs with moguls or fresh, ungroomed snow. All-mountain skis easily switch from one type of slope to another, which is why they are also called “versatile.”

Two key points distinguish this version from a traditional alpine ski. First, it is much wider. This setup provides better stability in powder, but makes maneuvering more difficult. Secondly, it is equipped with a tip rocker. This component raises the front of the ski, allowing it to glide more easily over ungroomed areas.

Depending on their versatility, all-mountain skis can be divided into two categories. The first is only slightly wider than classic models, with waists between 80 and 93 mm. In terms of proportion, specialists refer to the rule of thirds. In other words, the skier will spend two-thirds of their time on groomed slopes and the remaining third off-piste. In practice, this means light forays into shallow layers of fresh snow.

The second category is more suited for ungroomed slopes. Manufacturers specify that this version is designed for a 50–50 practice: half the time off-piste and the other half on regular slopes.

Freeride skis for adventurers

This range is mainly intended for powder snow. To avoid accidents, a good technical level and in-depth mountain knowledge are required before venturing into the unknown.

Manufacturers offer models on the market that are 60% powder-oriented. They are characterized by the presence of two rockers, one at the front and one at the rear. Some brands also include a reverse camber to improve maneuverability. In case of insufficient snow cover, this model can still be used on regular slopes.

Commonly called “fat,” the second category of freeride skis is easily recognized by their waist width greater than 115 mm. Their use is therefore limited to powder snow.

Ski touring encourages exploration

Ski touring is an enhanced version of piste skiing designed for discovery. Manufacturers have installed a special binding that releases the feet to make walking easier. When facing a slope, climbing skins ensure maximum grip. Once at the summit, the skier can fully lock the binding and enjoy performance similar to that of a classic ski.

The “light” category is both narrow and lightweight. It allows fast ascents or fitness exercises on snow. The “versatile” model is suitable for both powder and piste. You will discover stunning landscapes, far from the crowded areas of the resort. Finally, the “freerando” is designed for powder descents.

Freestyle skis, a demanding model

Inspired by skateboarding and rollerblading, freestyle skiing is practiced in special areas with various features such as kickers and half-pipes. The best riders can also express their creativity in fresh snow. Even though all models have two tips, some parameters allow you to choose a version suited to a specific discipline.

The principle remains the same: you should favor width if you plan to ski in powder. Specialists recommend classic cambers for performing tricks in half-pipes. If the rider uses different park features, the presence of two rockers will enhance the skis’ flexibility.