Copy of `Seatlle PI - A glossary of ski terms`

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Seatlle PI - A glossary of ski terms Category: Sport and Leisure > Skiing Date & country: 15/10/2010, USA Words: 21

Alpine skiing
Downhill skiing.

Après-ski
The night life following a day on the slopes.

Base
The bottom of the mountain where the lodge is situated, or the average depth of snow on a mountain.

Bunny slope
The most gently sloping hill on the mountain, usually used to teach beginners.

Carving
Making turns on the ski or snowboard with the edges cutting into the hill.

Catching an edge
Not good. A fall or near-fall where the edge of your ski or snowboard digs into the snow, usually catching an indentation made by another skier.

Catching some air
Going fast enough to have both skis or the snowboard off the snow after riding over a small hill or mogul.

Cruising
Making a long run at less than breakneck speed.

Fall line
The straightest and steepest line down any slope. One you'll likely take if you fall.

Gaper
A skier who pauses to take in the scenery.

Granular surface
Snow that has been groomed and is not fresh powder. The surface looks like millions of little, icy snow pellets.

Heli-skiing
Off-trail skiing reached by helicopter.

Mashed potatoes
Wet, heavy snow.

Milk run
The first run of the day.

Moguls
Mounds of snow, both natural and skier made, dotting ungroomed runs.

Off-trails
In some cases, probably where you shouldn't be. Most ski areas have designated off-trail areas -- ungroomed, unpatrolled slopes -- for avid powder buffs.

Parabolic skis
Also called hourglass skis or shaped skis, they are the new skis that some say are changing the industry, allowing strong intermediate skiers to ski like experts, and beginners to make those pretty turns sooner. They promise speed and control, responding to the slightest pressure.

Powder
Light, ungroomed snow.

Schussing
Skiing straight downhill, often in a full tuck position.

Snowplow
Often the first technique a beginner learns. The front tips of the skies are almost touching as the back tips are bowed outward, creating friction and helping with balance and control. Even advanced skiers use the technique at the beginning of runs while they put on gloves or adjust goggles.

Yard sale
A wipeout fall in which skis, poles, hat, etc. end up strewn along the mountainside.