How to get off the ski lift with dignity and six other tips for novice skiers
The Tourist Association of Ski and Mountain Resorts (ATUDEM) answers some of the most common doubts among novice skiers
According to the latest report published by the Tourist Association of Ski and Mountain Resorts (ATUDEM), the ski slopes received more than 5 million visits during 2019 . Among them, 6.8% of non-skier visitors stand out. In this context, it is normal for someone to be encouraged to try this sport for the first time. The Association has drawn up a list of answers about the doubts that every skier may ask when they start in this discipline and that they often do not dare to ask.
If I go up to a track higher than mine and I can't get down, will they come looking for me?
All ski resorts offer accident insurance , which includes the rescue on the slopes , along with the ski pass. However, not daring or not having enough level to go down may not be included in this service. This does not mean that they will not come looking for us, but it may imply economic surcharges in some cases. From ATUDEM it is recommended to have a level of difficulty well mastered before moving on to the next. In addition, it is highly recommended to go skiing accompanied, if possible, with someone more expert than us so that they can advise us. In this sense, a good way to get started in this sport is through courses for beginners.
The Association also highlights that, if you do not have the necessary level to go down, taking off your skis is not a good solution , since the boots are not designed for walking. In this situation, it is better to ski practically perpendicular to the direction of the track, descending making large curves.
What happens if I lose a ski?
This is one of the great fears of all debutantes. If we look at reality, the chances of losing a ski in an alpine resort are slim . In addition to being in a confined environment, currently all skis have safety brakes when the boots are not attached. Normally, the skiers who have more options to suffer this mishap are the freeriders, since they practice off piste. ATUDEM does not recommend the use of restraint straps used by some mountain military corps or off-piste skiers, as they can increase the risk of serious injury in the event of a fall.
How to use the ski lift?
Falls from the ski lift or ski lift are very common among winter sports novices. The first thing to keep in mind is that it is not a chair. Often times, the fall is caused by sitting on it, but as its name suggests, it only drags us down. In the beginners' areas of many stations we will see that the use of this ski lift has been replaced by straps or cable skis, much easier to use if we are beginners.
How to get off the chairlift with dignity?
Although the chairlift tends to cause fewer problems for beginners than the ski lift, getting off it is usually a cause for nerves the first few times . Being accompanied by someone more expert will always be of great help. Likewise, both on the way up and down, we will have the presence of station personnel who will give us a hand if we need them. To get off the chairlift with dignity it is essential not to rush and descend smoothly.
Do I need to bundle up a lot?
Choosing the right clothing for skiing is usually a headache for beginners. From ATUDEM it is recommended to seek advice from professionals to find the right material. It is important to bear in mind that if we wrap ourselves excessively, we will sweat more and when we are still we will be colder. It should not be forgotten that skiing is a sport. The Association considers it essential to wear waterproof clothing and gloves.
Glasses are also vitally important, as well as protective sunscreen. Snow reflects 80% of the sunlight it receives, therefore when we ski we are very exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Is it mandatory to wear a helmet on the ski slopes?
The European Union does not qualify skiing as a risky sport, so the use of a helmet is not mandatory. Even so, ATUDEM recommends its use, as well as the other protection elements. Although normally falls among amateurs do not have serious consequences, protecting the head and back, with the use of a turtle, is a precaution to take into account.
Where do I leave my skis when I go to the station cafeteria?
When you are not used to skiing you get more tired. Ski resort cafes are the ideal place to recharge your batteries. Normally, on the outside of the building there are always iron bars where you can leave your skis. However, it is important to look where we have left them, since we will often find many skis similar to ours. It is advisable to leave some mark, such as a hanging pole, or put one ski up and one down to identify our skis.
