What is freeride skiing?

Freeride skiing is a style of skiing that involves skiing off-piste, through ungroomed and unmarked terrain rather than on designated ski runs. It is typically done in mountainous or backcountry environments, where skiers can find steep and challenging terrain to navigate. Freeride skiing emphasizes the exploration of natural terrain and the individual expression of skiing skills.

Freeride skiing is characterized by its focus on technical skill, agility, and creativity. Skiers often seek out untouched powder, steep chutes, cliffs, and other challenging features to test their abilities. Freeride skiing requires a high level of fitness, as skiers must navigate through variable snow conditions and difficult terrain.

Safety is a crucial aspect of freeride skiing, as skiers are often skiing in remote and hazardous areas. Skiers should have knowledge of avalanche safety, backcountry navigation, and first aid in case of emergencies. Many freeride skiers also wear avalanche safety equipment, such as beacons, shovels, and probes, to help them stay safe in the event of an avalanche.

Freeride skiing has grown in popularity in recent years, with competitions such as the Freeride World Tour showcasing the skills of top freeride skiers from around the world. Advances in ski technology and equipment have also made freeride skiing more accessible to a wider range of skiers, allowing them to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains in a new and exciting way.