For newcomers to skiing, it can sometimes sound like people are speaking a different language on the slopes. There is a lot of slang and lingo in the skiing world, so you will want to get to grips with this language before booking ski holidays in Austria so that you can understand what people are talking about and feel like part of the community. This post will take a look at the essential slope terminology, lift and resort jargon, snow speak, and apres and social slang.
Essential Slope Terminology
First, it is helpful to understand some of the terminology that you will hear when it comes to the slopes. Runs are marked by colours to indicate their difficulty:
Green: Beginner slopes
Blue: Gentle gradients for those developing their abilities
Red: Steeper and more challenging runs for intermediate skiers
Black: Expert-level runs with demanding terrain
In addition to the colours of the runs, you will also hear people talking about off-piste skiing. This involves exploring the ungroomed snow outside the marked trails. Moguls are the bumpy mounds that are formed for repeated turns, while nursery slopes are the areas where beginners learn the basics.
Lift & Resort Jargon
You will need to use the lifts to get up the mountain, and there are a few key terms to be aware of:
Lift pass: Your ticket to the ski lifts
Gondola: An enclosed lift for longer rides
Chair lift: An open-air seat to carry you up the mountain
Drag lift: A tow that pulls you up while you remain on skis
There are a few terms you may also hear around the resort. These include ski hire (where you rent equipment, base lodge (main meeting and service area), and trail map (guide to runs and facilities).
Snow Speak: Describing Conditions & Experiences
Here are a few common terms you will hear describing skiing conditions and experiences:
Powder: Fresh snow
Bluebird day: Clear skies and sunshine
Dump: Overnight snowstorm
Gnarly: Difficult terrain
Wipe out: A dramatic fall
Apres Ski & Social Slang
There are many phrases and terms you will hear while out in the evenings. Understanding these terms will help you make the most out of the social side. This includes terms such as:
Apres ski: Post ski socializing, often at bars and clubs
Bunny: A nickname for a beginner or someone there for the social side more than skiing
Slope-side banter: Chatter among fellow skiers
Hopefully, this post will help you feel prepared for your first ski holiday. By understanding the terminology and slang that you will hear on the mountain and around the resort, you will have a much richer experience and feel like part of the community. Skiing can be daunting at first, but once you master the basics and understand the culture, you are sure to fall in love with it and become a regular before long!
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