Ski Etiquette

The ski resort, much like a golf resort or ocean-side resort is dependent upon the participants abiding by established points of etiquette. Newcomers should be aware that breaking from the established norms is not the way to gain acceptance into the subculture.

Consider the case of the beginner who came to your first class with your goggles (obviously fresh out the box, because the sticker was still on the lens) upside down on his head. At the time, the group of instructors waiting for their class assignments gave a snicker under their breath. Don't fall into the pretentious beginner category.

Another example is the guy whose narcissistic nature couldn't be restrained as he took off his shirt in the midday sun adding to his tropical look of flower printed shorts. Although skiing with a T-shirt on the hot days is acceptable, a long sleeved shirt is always the norm. In case of a fall, the snow won't give you a road rash. Even as an expert, shorts and short sleeved shirts are not worn.

Remember the old saying, "clothing makes the man?" Well, this could be seen as a good guide in the social world of skiing. It is such a festive occasion, at times, that the right clothing could mean the difference between meeting people during your outings and being the one snickered at. If you don't care, the snowmobile suit, jeans and leather jacket will work fine and give the die-hard enthusiasts a smile during their day. The golden rule as a novice skier: watch and learn.

Alpine Skiing School section in english version of WWW.SKI.BG is based on
"A Guide To Becoming An Expert: From First Time To A Lifetime"
by John Mukavitz Copyright © 1998