The Different Types of Skiing
Winter landscapes, fresh mountain air and the thrill of gliding over snow – skiing is an activity that provides unmatched enjoyment. Whether you’re craving steep slopes or want to traverse tranquil forests, there’s a style of skiing for everyone.
Here at Alpine Fleet, we can make your journey from the airport to the slopes as seamless as possible, offering leading shared and private transfers to all of the Alps’ major resorts. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of skiing you can enjoy.
Read on for more information…
Types of skiing
Skiing isn’t just about going downhill; there is actually a wide range of experiences you can enjoy. Let’s take a closer look at all of the major types of skiing:
Downhill skiing
This is the classic version of skiing and probably what most people think of when they imagine the activity. It involves heading to a summit (usually using a ski lift) and cruising back down to the bottom using groomed trails and boots fixed to the skis. There are many resorts around the world, including in the Alps, that have this type of skiing as their backbone and most popular activity.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing takes place in more remote, flat areas off the beaten track. Here, skiers tend to travel across longer distances rather than just going up and down a mountain. It is more specialist and requires its own set of skis. People propel themselves across the ground using their ski poles and leg muscles.
Backcountry skiing
Another type that ventures off the beaten path, backcountry skiing takes place beyond the groomed resort trails and out into more natural and rugged terrain. People do not follow a set path and instead make their own route. It is often more challenging and physically demanding than other types of skiing.
Alpine touring
For a complete backcountry experience, Alpine touring is the way to go. Here, skiers use hybrid fixed and free-heel skis as they hike up a mountain with climbing skins and untethered feet. As they reach the top, the heels are then locked down for the descent. This allows the skier to have both free and locked heels for a complete skiing experience.
Telemark skiing
This can be done both on and off the trail, depending on the type of experience you are looking for. The skier will have their heels locked to the skis, and they need to use a lunging motion to turn in the direction they want to go. The forward leg is kept in a bent position to guide the skis in one way or another.
Ski mountaineering
A demanding blend of mountain climbing and skiing, skiers hike to the top of a mountain with their equipment slung over their shoulders. Then, upon reaching the top, the skier will descend using the equipment they have carried up with them. This is ideal for thrill-seekers and advanced skiers.
Freestyle skiing
Acrobatic and creative, freestyle skiing involves aerial jumps and flips as you head down the mountain. Many areas for this activity come equipped with half-pipes to help skiers get air time with spins and acrobatic moves the norm. However, this should only be attempted if experienced, as injuries are common if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Adaptive skiing
Tailored for individuals with disabilities, this inclusive discipline uses specialised equipment to enable everyone to enjoy skiing.
Nordic skiing
A broader category encompassing cross-country, telemark and alpine touring, Nordic skiing gets its name from Norway, where it was once the only way to travel. Skiers use their heels to kick themselves forward during this method.
The best type of skiing for beginners
If you’re just starting out, then downhill skiing is widely recognised as the most approachable and easiest to pick up. Many resorts provide ski lift access, designated trails and ski schools with instructors to help you. Equipment can also be hired at these resorts, and paths are clearly marked to put you at ease.
Best destinations for skiing
If you’re planning your next skiing holiday, the Alps stand unmatched when it comes to skiing experiences. Alpine Fleet can take you to the heart of the action, and here are some of the most popular resorts:
- Val Thorens: Europe’s highest ski resort, it is perfect for reliable snow and a vast terrain.
- Tignes: With high-altitude skiing all year round, Tignes offers extensive runs and stunning glaciers.
- Chamonix: Famed for its steep terrain and mountaineering culture, this resort offers a variety of experiences.
- Morzine: A charming traditional village with access to the iconic Portes du Soleil ski area.
- Les Gets: A family-friendly resort with great access to runs for skiers of all abilities.
- Val d’Isere: With iconic slopes and challenging terrain, Val d’Isere is a world-class ski resort.
- And many more: The Alps are packed full of incredible ski resorts that are perfect for beginners and advanced skiers alike. At Alpine Fleet, we can help you reach any resort in the region.
No matter the type of skiing you’re looking for, all these resorts offer a curated place for you to enjoy your next ski trip.
Free ski lifts in Val Thorens
From the thrill of freestyle jumps to the tranquillity of cross-country skiing, there’s a version of skiing to meet everyone’s needs. The Alps are the perfect destination for all types of skiing, and no matter what resort you want to visit, the team here at Alpine Fleet has you covered.
Our shared and private transfers ensure smooth, reliable transfers from Geneva Airport and others in the region. A stress-free way to get to your resort without having to worry about navigating public transport or the challenging mountain roads, all our transfers give you the chance to enjoy beautiful alpine scenery in the comfort of one of our luxurious vehicles.
Book your transfer today and start your snowbound adventure the very moment you land. Contact our team today for more information.
