That's La Plagne contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon affiliate program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. I never recommend anything I haven't experienced myself, and the commission helps me keep this site running at full speed! See my Disclosure Policy for extra information.
The Ultimate Ski Glossary: From Après-Ski to Yard Sale
Picture this: you’re on your dream ski holiday, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, and ready to dive into the world of skiing. But as soon as you hit the slopes, you start hearing terms that sound like a foreign language. “What on earth is a ‘piste basher’? And why is everyone talking about ‘corduroy’?”
Living in a ski resort in the French Alps, I’ve spent more time on ski lifts than I care to admit. Whether it’s a gentle ride up a magic carpet with my kids or braving a gusty chairlift to reach the peak, I’ve experienced it all. And I’ve also picked up all the lingo that might leave you scratching your head. Whether you’re a total newbie or just looking to brush up on your ski vocabulary, this glossary will have you chatting like a local in no time.
General Ski Terms
Piste
A marked ski run or path down the mountain. If you’re skiing on a groomed slope, you’re on a piste.
Off-piste
Skiing on unmarked and unpatrolled areas outside of the designated pistes. It’s thrilling but definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Après-ski
The fun you have after a day on the slopes – think drinks, music, and general merriment. It’s almost as important as the skiing itself! Check out my La Plagne après-ski guide here.
Lift Pass
A ticket that gives you access to the ski lifts. You’ll need one to get up the mountain. If you need more info on Paradiski & La Plagne passes then my ultimate guide will help.
Ski Touring
A form of skiing where you climb up the mountain using skins attached to your skis and then ski down. It’s a great way to explore the backcountry.
Freeride
Skiing in natural terrain, usually off-piste, without a set course. It’s all about freedom and adventure.
Freestyle
Skiing that involves tricks, jumps, and stunts, usually in a snowpark. Perfect for the adrenaline junkies!
Telemark
A skiing technique where the heel of the boot is not fixed to the ski, allowing for a distinctive turning style. It’s old-school but still very cool.
Nordic Skiing
A category of skiing that includes cross-country skiing and ski touring. It’s all about endurance and exploring the great outdoors.
Get all the juiciest inside secrets about La Plagne, direct to your inbox.
La Plagne lift pass sales, accommodation deals & ski school discounts before anyone else knows about them.
Terrain and Weather
Powder
Fresh, light, fluffy snow that skiers dream about. It’s perfect for off-piste adventures and makes you feel like you’re floating down the mountain.
Corduroy
The patterned surface left on a slope after it’s been groomed, resembling corduroy fabric. It’s a dream to ski on early in the morning.
Moguls
Bumps on a ski slope formed by the repeated turns of skiers. Love them or hate them, moguls will challenge your skiing skills.
Cornice
An overhanging mass of snow at the edge of a ridge often dangerous. It’s a feature to be cautious of, especially in off-piste areas.
Avalanche
A mass of snow, ice, and rocks falling rapidly down a mountainside. Avalanches are a serious risk in off-piste skiing.
Couloir
A steep, narrow gully on a mountainside often used in off-piste skiing. It’s the stuff of expert skiers’ dreams.
Glacier
A large, slow-moving mass of ice, often found at high altitudes. Glaciers offer year-round skiing in some resorts.
Whiteout
A weather condition where visibility is reduced due to heavy snowfall or fog. Skiing in a whiteout can be disorienting, so take care.
Bluebird Day
A clear, sunny day after a night of fresh snowfall. It’s the perfect day for skiing, with great visibility and beautiful conditions.
Snow Conditions
Powder
Fresh, soft snow that hasn’t been compacted, perfect for off-piste skiing.
Slushy
Snow that has started to melt, typically in the afternoon or during the spring season. It can be a bit tricky to ski on, as it slows you down and makes turns harder.
Icy
Hard-packed snow that can feel like you’re skiing on an ice rink. Not the most pleasant, but knowing how to handle icy conditions is key to staying safe.
Sticky
Wet snow that clings to your skis, making it difficult to glide. You’ll often encounter sticky snow in milder temperatures.
Heavy Snow
Dense snow that is harder to ski through, often due to high moisture content or partial melting. It requires more effort to manoeuvre but can be manageable with the right technique.
Ski Lifts
Chairlift
A lift where skiers and snowboarders sit on a bench, which is suspended by a cable and carries them up the mountain. Chairlifts are one of the most common and efficient ways to get up the slopes.
Gondola
An enclosed cabin lift that carries skiers and snowboarders up the mountain. Gondolas usually hold between 4 to 12 people, providing protection from the elements and offering a more comfortable ride.
Drag Lift (Surface Lift)
A lift where the skier or snowboarder is pulled up the slope while standing. These lifts are generally used on gentler slopes.
Types:
- Button Lift/Poma Lift: A single bar with a circular disc (the “button”) at the end, which you place between your legs while it pulls you uphill.
- T-Bar: A T-shaped bar that skiers place behind their thighs, with two people sharing each side of the “T.”
- Rope Tow: A simple lift where you grab onto a moving rope that pulls you up the hill. Often used on beginner slopes.
Magic Carpet
A conveyor belt lift that skiers and snowboarders stand on, which slowly carries them uphill. Magic carpets are commonly found on beginner slopes or in ski schools.
Cable Car/Funiculaire
A large, enclosed cabin that can carry a significant number of passengers at once, moving up steep terrain via cables. Unlike gondolas, cable cars typically operate on a fixed route with larger capacities.
Piste Basher/Groomer
A machine used to groom the snow on ski slopes, creating a smooth and even surface. These machines are responsible for that lovely corduroy snow.
Equipment
Bindings
The devices that attach your boots to your skis. Getting the right bindings is crucial for both safety and performance on the slopes.
Skins
Strips attached to the bottom of skis to prevent slipping backwards when climbing. Essential for ski touring.
Carving Skis
Skis designed for making sharp, clean turns on groomed slopes. They’re great for those who love the feeling of slicing through the snow.
Poles
Sticks are used for balance and propulsion while skiing. Don’t underestimate how important they are!
Helmet
A must-have for protecting your noggin while skiing. Safety first, always!
Goggles
Protective eyewear designed to shield your eyes from snow, wind, and UV rays. They’re essential for visibility, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Backpack
Essential for carrying gear, snacks, and safety equipment like a shovel and probe when skiing off-piste.
Ski Slang and Local Phrases
Schuss
Skiing straight downhill without turning – basically, going full speed ahead!
Gnar
Extreme or challenging terrain, often used to describe a thrilling experience. If someone says it’s “gnar,” you know it’s going to be exciting!
Après-ski Boots
Comfortable, warm boots worn after skiing. Perfect for heading to the bar after a day on the slopes.
Ski Bum
Someone who’s devoted their life to skiing, often at the expense of a traditional career. It’s a lifestyle choice that many envy!
Glisse
A term referring to sliding sports, including skiing and snowboarding. It’s all about the glide.
Yard Sale
When you take a tumble, and your skis, poles, and goggles are scattered all over the slope. It’s embarrassing, but hey, it happens to the best of us.
Bunny Slope
A gentle slope for beginners. It’s where everyone starts, and there’s no shame in it!
Chairlift
A type of ski lift that carries skiers up the mountain while they sit on a bench. Mentioned twice, but it’s that important!
Après Ski Like a Local
Free Recipe Book for Chalet-Style Drinks at Home
Inspired by Alpine ski bars across Europe. This free mini book gives you all the warm, cosy, and boozy drinks you’ll want after a long day (even if it was just the school run).
What’s Inside:
- Chalet-style drink recipes inspired by après bars across the Alps
- No fancy kit required. Just warm mugs, simple ingredients, and a touch of mountain magic
- Tips on how to host a ski night at home (or turn your garden into a ski terrace)
Perfect For:
- First-time skiers dreaming of their trip
- Mountain lovers needing a snow fix
- Anyone who believes après is a lifestyle, not just a location
Safety and Rules
Avalanche Transceiver/Beacon
A device used to locate people buried under an avalanche. If you’re venturing off-piste, this is essential gear.
Ski Patrol
The heroes of the mountain who ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. They’re the ones you call when you need help or if there’s been an incident on the slopes.
Closed Run
A ski run that is closed to skiers, usually due to dangerous conditions. Always respect closed signs for your safety.
Fall Line
The most direct route down a slope, following the natural line of descent. Knowing the fall line helps you maintain control as you ski.
That’s La Plagne & The Ultimate Ski Glossary
Whether you’re gearing up for your first ski holiday or just looking to up your mountain lingo, this glossary has you covered. Knowing the terms can make your experience on the slopes smoother, safer, and a lot more fun. After all, skiing isn’t just about the thrill – it’s about embracing the whole lifestyle, from the first lift of the day to the last après-ski toast.
See you on the slopes!
