Skier’s glossary: all the terms you need to know before going skiing

Ski has its own language, and it can seem complex when you’re a beginner. However, understanding this vocabulary changes everything. In this skier’s glossary, you will discover the essential terms for skiing down the slopes. Technique, snow types, equipment, and safety… each term is explained in simple words.

Why is it important to know ski terminology before heading to a resort?

Even before putting on your skis, understanding the vocabulary can give you an advantage. Knowing technical terms helps you better follow instructors’ advice, choose equipment suited to your level, and adapt your skiing to current conditions.

It’s also a matter of safety. Certain terms related to avalanches or weather should not be unfamiliar to you. Before heading out, remember to check the Méribel and 3 Vallées weather forecast, as well as the 3 Vallées webcam. This way, you can anticipate conditions and ski with peace of mind.

Skier’s glossary

Vocabulary related to techniques and movements

Edge grip: Edge grip refers to the ability of the ski edges to hold on the snow. It is especially important on hard or icy surfaces. Good grip allows you to stay in control, even in the most demanding turns.

Angulation: Angulation is the inclination of the body during a turn. It helps maintain balance while increasing pressure on the edges. The better it is mastered, the more precise your turns will be.

Anticipation: In skiing, anticipation means preparing your next movement. Your gaze should always be directed downhill, never at your skis, which improves fluidity and avoids sudden movements.

Pole plant: The pole plant is a simple but essential movement. It helps link turns and stabilize the upper body. When used correctly, it adds rhythm and consistency.

Natural stop: A natural stop uses the terrain or snow to slow down gradually, without significant skidding. It’s a smooth and controlled way to stop.

To carve: Carving means skiing using the edges without skidding. The ski follows its natural curve, creating a very smooth gliding sensation.

Carving: Carving refers to the practice of edge skiing, where skis draw clean arcs in the snow. The result: more speed and greater precision.

Snowplow: The snowplow is often the first technique learned. The skis form a V-shape to slow down and control speed. It helps beginners gain confidence from their first runs.

Convergence: Convergence refers to the skis’ tips moving closer together during certain phases of a turn. It can help stabilize movement.

Turn initiation: This is the moment when the turn begins. You shift your weight and direct your skis. A good initiation makes skiing smoother and more efficient.

Extension: Extension is the straightening of the body after a flexion and accompanies the end of a turn. This movement helps link turns dynamically.

Skidding: Skidding consists of sliding the skis sideways. It helps control speed, especially on steep slopes. It is a very useful technique to master.

Straight-lining: A well-known expression among experienced skiers. It means going straight down a steep slope.

Divergence: Unlike convergence, divergence is when the skis move apart at the front. This position is often used in learning, as it helps better control direction.

Flex (to bend): To flex means bending your legs to absorb terrain irregularities. It helps you stay stable, even on bumpy snow. It’s a fundamental skiing skill.

Flexion: Flexion is the skier’s low position. It often comes before a turn or a change in rhythm.

Flip: A flip is a freestyle trick involving a backward rotation performed during a jump.

Short turns (Godille): Godille consists of linking small, quick turns. It is often used on steep slopes or in couloirs.

Grab: A grab is a trick where the skier grabs their ski in mid-air. It adds style and technicality to jumps and is widely used in freestyle.

Schuss: Schuss means going straight downhill with skis parallel. Speed can be high. This position is often used on flat sections or in racing.

Stem: The stem is an intermediate technique between snowplow and parallel skiing. One ski opens to initiate the turn. It is often used during progression.

Switch (or fakie): Skiing switch means skiing backward. This technique is widely used in freestyle.

Traverse: Traversing means crossing the slope diagonally. It helps manage speed and provides a moment to rest. It is useful on steep slopes.

Carved turn: In a carved turn, the skis do not skid. They follow a precise path on their edges, allowing for more speed while maintaining stability.

Skidded turn: A skidded turn uses controlled sliding and makes it easier to slow down. It is a reassuring technique for beginners.

Parallel turn: The skis remain parallel throughout the turn. It is the foundation of modern alpine skiing, allowing for smooth and controlled skiing.

Vocabulary related to snow types

After techniques, let’s talk about snow! Because not all snow is skied the same way.

Artificial snow: Artificial snow is produced by snow cannons. It ensures good snow coverage, even at the beginning or end of the season. Its texture is often more compact and sometimes more slippery.

Groomed snow: Groomed snow is prepared by snow groomers, usually at night. It offers a smooth and even surface. It’s the ideal snow for improving and gaining confidence!

Spring snow: Spring snow appears as temperatures rise. It is wetter and heavier. It changes throughout the day: hard in the morning, softer in the afternoon.

Natural snow: Natural snow falls directly from the sky. It is often lighter and more pleasant to ski on, offering great sensations, especially off-piste.

Tracked snow: Tracked snow has already been skied and is uneven. It features bumps and tracks, requiring more technique and adaptability.

Transformed snow: Transformed snow has changed structure due to sun and freezing conditions. It can be hard, crusty, or slightly melted. It requires adapting your technique.

Powder / pow / freshies: These informal terms refer to powder snow. They are widely used among skiers and describe highly sought-after, ideal conditions.

Powder snow: Powder snow is fresh, light, and ungroomed snow. It provides a unique floating sensation and is the favorite terrain for freeride enthusiasts.

Slush: Slush is very wet, almost melted snow. It often appears at the end of the season or at the bottom of slopes. It is heavier and requires more effort to ski.

Vocabulary related to topography and geography

Adret: The adret refers to a slope exposed to the sun. Snow melts faster there, so conditions can change quickly throughout the day.

Uphill (Amont): Uphill refers to the upper part of the mountain. It is generally the starting point of a slope. This term is essential for orientation.

Altitude: Altitude indicates the height above sea level. It directly affects snow quality. The higher it is, the colder and drier the snow.

Downhill (Aval): Downhill refers to the lower part of the slope. It is the direction of descent and is always opposite to uphill.

Backcountry: Backcountry refers to areas outside marked slopes. These zones are not secured and require good knowledge and proper equipment.

Combe: A combe is a natural hollow between two slopes. It can accumulate a lot of snow but may also be exposed to avalanche risks.

Ski lifts

Gondola (TC): A gondola is an enclosed cabin lift that protects you from wind and cold. It is comfortable and accessible to everyone.

Cable car (TPH): A cable car is a large cabin suspended by a cable. It can carry many ആള at once and is often used for long distances at high altitude.

Chairlift (TS): A chairlift is an open-air lift that can be fixed or detachable. Skiers sit on suspended chairs.

Detachable chairlift (TSD): A detachable chairlift is a fast lift that slows down in stations to make boarding easier. It offers more comfort and smoother flow than a fixed chairlift.

Drag lift: A drag lift uses a pole or T-bar. You remain standing during the ascent. It is often found on beginner slopes.

Vocabulary related to ski slopes

Snow groomer: A snow groomer is a machine that maintains the slopes, mainly at night. It smooths the snow to provide good skiing conditions.

Green slope: A green slope is the easiest and ideal for beginners. Its gradient is gentle and consistent.

Blue slope: A blue slope is intermediate, with a manageable gradient. It allows you to progress without major difficulty.

Red slope: A red slope is more demanding. The gradient is steeper, requiring good control of turns.

Black slope: A black slope is reserved for experienced skiers. It features steep and sometimes technical terrain, requiring control and commitment.

Snowpark: A snowpark is an area dedicated to freestyle. It includes features like jumps, rails, and bumps—perfect for performing tricks!

Snow cannon: A snow cannon produces artificial snow. It helps ensure good snow coverage across the ski area and is essential at the beginning and end of the season.

Ski pass: A ski pass gives you access to the ski lifts. It allows you to ski across the entire area. Be sure to choose a Méribel or 3 Valleys ski pass suited to your stay.

Vocabulary related to safety and avalanches

In the mountains, safety is essential. Some terms must be clearly understood.

CATEX: CATEX (explosive cable system) is a preventive avalanche control system. It uses explosives transported by cable to secure sensitive areas.

Avalanche transceiver (DVA): The DVA (avalanche victim detector) is used to locate a buried person. It is essential for off-piste skiing.

Gazex: Gazex is a fixed system that remotely triggers avalanches. It is used to secure certain slopes.

PIDA: PIDA (avalanche control plan) is a safety protocol in ski resorts. Managed by ski patrol, it organizes the preventive triggering of avalanches.

RECCO: The RECCO system helps rescue teams locate a victim, in addition to a transceiver. It works with reflectors integrated into equipment.

Risk level 4: Risk level 4 indicates a high avalanche danger. Conditions are unstable, so maximum caution is required.

Vocabulary related to ski equipment and construction

To better choose your gear, it’s useful to understand how a ski is built.

Camber: Camber is the natural curve of the ski. It affects edge grip and stability, playing a key role in performance.

Edges: The edges are the metal strips along the sides of the ski. They provide grip on the snow and are essential for turning.

Sidewall: The sidewall is the lateral part of the ski. It protects the internal structure and contributes to durability.

Sidecut: The sidecut refers to the ski’s dimensions, which influence its maneuverability. It also determines the type of turns the ski is designed for.

Core: Often made of wood, the core is the heart of the ski. It affects flex and overall behavior.

Waist: The waist is the part under your foot. Its width influences stability and varies depending on the type of skiing.

Turning radius: The turning radius corresponds to the ski’s natural curve. It determines how easily the ski turns—the shorter the radius, the more maneuverable the ski.

Rocker: Rocker is the upward curve at the tip or tail. It improves float in fresh snow and enhances maneuverability.

Sandwich construction: This construction layers several materials, improving the ski’s strength and performance.

Base: The base is the part in direct contact with the snow. It must be well maintained, as it plays a key role in glide.

Shape: Shape refers to the overall form of the ski, which varies depending on the discipline.

Tip: The tip is the front of the ski. It initiates turns and helps absorb terrain variations.

Tail: The tail is the back of the ski. It finishes the turn and influences stability at the end of the curve.

Vocabulary related to ski boots

Toe box: The toe box is the front part of the boot. It protects your toes and should provide enough space. Too tight causes discomfort, too wide reduces precision.

Boosters: Boosters are elastic straps that sometimes replace traditional power straps. They improve shin support and provide more responsiveness.

Canting: Canting is a lateral adjustment of the boot. It allows you to adapt the angle to your body shape, improving posture and balance.

Cuff: The cuff is the upper part of the boot. It wraps around the foot and contributes to overall support. It also plays a role in transmitting pressure.

Liner: The liner is the inner, soft, and comfortable part. It molds to the shape of your foot and is often heat-moldable, improving comfort and precision.

Boots: Ski boots transmit every movement to the skis. They must fit properly—neither too loose nor too tight. A good fit is essential for progression.

Collar: The collar surrounds the lower leg. It supports the shin and guides movements, directly influencing your posture on skis.

Buckle ladder: The buckle ladder allows you to adjust the tension of the buckles. It adapts easily to different foot shapes and keeps the foot securely in place.

Buckles: Buckles close the boot and hold the foot in place. Proper adjustment is essential for comfort and performance.

Micro-adjustable buckles: These buckles allow very precise adjustments, especially in terms of pressure, significantly improving comfort.

Boot flex: Flex indicates the stiffness of the boot. The higher it is, the stiffer the boot. It should be chosen according to your level and skiing style.

Tongue: The tongue is located at the front of the shin. It distributes pressure and improves both comfort and power transmission.

Shell: The shell is the rigid outer part of the boot. It protects the foot and provides structure, playing a key role in precision.

Boot sole: The sole is in contact with the bindings. It must be in good condition to ensure safety and stability.

Footbed: The footbed is inside the liner. It improves foot support and reduces fatigue throughout the day.

Spoiler: The spoiler is placed at the back of the cuff. It adjusts forward lean and helps fine-tune posture.

Power straps: Power straps are located at the top of the boot. They complement the buckles and reinforce shin support.

Vocabulary related to ski bindings and accessories

Ski bindings connect you to your skis and play a central role in safety.

Toe piece: The toe piece is the front part of the binding that holds the boot in place. It releases in case of a fall to help prevent injuries.

Binding (fixation): The binding connects the boot to the ski. It transfers movements and ensures safety. It must be adjusted according to your level and weight.

Brake: The brake deploys when the boot releases. It prevents the ski from sliding downhill. It is an essential safety feature.

Heel piece: The heel piece is the rear part of the binding that holds the heel. It releases automatically in case of a fall.

Vocabulary related to ski maintenance

A well-maintained ski is more efficient and more enjoyable to use.

Sharpen: Sharpening means honing the ski edges. It improves grip, especially on hard snow, and is essential for maintaining control.

Brush: The brush is used after waxing. It cleans and structures the base to optimize glide.

Wax: Wax is applied to the ski base. It improves glide and protects the ski. It must be chosen according to snow conditions.

Scraper: The scraper is used to remove excess wax to create a smooth surface. In other words, it prepares the ski for optimal glide.

Types and disciplines of skiing

Skiing is not limited to a single practice. There are many disciplines, each with its own specificities.

All-mountain: All-mountain skiing is versatile and adapts to all conditions. It is ideal for varying terrain.

Backcountry: Backcountry refers to skiing outside marked and secured slopes. It offers great freedom but requires autonomy and caution.

Backcountry freestyle: Backcountry freestyle combines freeride and freestyle. It mixes tricks with natural terrain, requiring both technique and creativity.

Downhill: Downhill is a speed discipline performed on long, fast courses. It requires commitment and control.

Freeride: Freeride is practiced on ungroomed snow. It focuses on freedom and wide open spaces and is especially popular among thrill-seekers.

Freestyle: Freestyle consists of performing tricks, either in a snowpark or on natural terrain.

Alpine skiing: Alpine skiing is the most common form of skiing. It takes place on marked slopes and suits all levels.

Cross-country skiing: Similar to Nordic skiing, cross-country skiing is practiced on flat or rolling terrain and develops endurance.

Skating (cross-country skating): More dynamic and faster, skating is a cross-country technique similar to ice skating.

Ski touring: Ski touring combines ascent and descent. It is practiced outside ski lifts and requires specific equipment.

Off-piste skiing: Off-piste skiing takes place outside secured areas. It offers unique sensations but requires caution and preparation.

Slalom: Slalom is a technical discipline with closely spaced gates. It requires precision and quick reactions.

Giant slalom: Giant slalom features wider gate spacing. It emphasizes speed while remaining highly technical.

Slopestyle: Slopestyle is a freestyle discipline combining jumps and obstacles. It is highly spectacular.

Super-G: Super-G is a speed discipline between giant slalom and downhill.

Combined: Combined is a discipline that includes multiple events, usually one speed race (downhill or Super-G) and one technical race (slalom). It is one of the most complete alpine skiing events, often featured in major international competitions.

Ski jumping: Ski jumping is performed on a ramp, with the goal of covering the greatest possible distance.

Vocabulary related to mountain gear and equipment

Finally, equipment plays a key role in your comfort and safety.

Après-ski boots: Après-ski boots are shoes designed for walking after your day on the slopes. They prevent slipping and must be warm and comfortable.

Poles: Ski poles help maintain balance and set the rhythm of turns. They are essential for skiing.

Helmet: The helmet protects your head in case of a fall. It is strongly recommended and often essential.

Ski suit: A ski suit is a one-piece outfit that provides effective protection against cold and snow.

Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from the cold. They should be insulated and waterproof for comfortable skiing.

Gaiters: Gaiters prevent snow from entering your boots and are especially useful in deep snow.

Snow skirt: The snow skirt is built into the jacket or suit. Like gaiters, it prevents snow from getting inside and helps protect in case of a fall.

Neck warmer: A neck warmer protects the neck from the cold. It is simple but very effective for improving thermal comfort.

Goggles: Ski goggles protect your eyes from wind and sun and improve visibility. They are essential on the slopes.

Mittens: Mittens retain heat better than gloves, providing greater thermal comfort. They are ideal in very cold conditions.

Shovel: The shovel is an essential off-piste safety tool. It is used to dig out avalanche victims and must be used with a DVA.

Ice axe: The ice axe is used on steep terrain or in mountaineering. It helps with progression and securing footholds but requires proper training.

Backpack: The backpack allows you to carry your gear. It should be adapted to your activity as it accompanies all your outings.

Airbag backpack: The airbag backpack is an avalanche safety device widely recommended for freeride skiing. It increases the chances of staying on the surface.

Bib pants (ski overalls): Comfortable and practical, bib pants protect against cold and snow and provide good lower back coverage.

Understanding skiing vocabulary is already a step toward better mastery. All that’s left is to enjoy it—put on your skis, head for the mountains, and savor every moment on the slopes!