We all love people-watching, and a ski resort is a magnificent place to do it! Men, women, boys, and girls of varying skill levels and fashion taste travel from all over the world to ski because—let’s be honest—a ski trip is the best kind of trip. Now, we’re not ones to judge, but we do want to make sure that you’re prepared for the types of people you may encounter on your next ski trip. So, without further ado, we present to you 7 types of skiers that you’ll see on the slopes.
1. The first-timer
We’ve all been there. Either on the ground or cautiously inching their way down the hill with skis in an unconfident “pizza formation,” this skier is attempting something new. So, if you spot one, instead of giggling, give ‘em break! Remember, no one is born a skier.
2. The ski bum
You probably won’t see this guy or gal on the slopes, but you very well may have passed his hippie van/wagon, struggling to maintain speed, on your way to the resort. To spot this elusive skier, you’ll need to look beyond the corduroy. He or she will most likely be skinning their way up the hill, through the woods, skis strapped to their back—probably because they didn’t buy a pass—but you probably won’t get close enough to know for sure.
3. The non-skiing mom
She was a good sport and came along even though she doesn’t like skiing. This one will also be tough to spot, but with a keen eye, it’s possible. She’s probably shopping in the resort village or drinking wine in the lodge—and there’s nothing wrong with that. She loves the pine-scented air, the fluffy snow, a cozy fireplace, but she doesn’t enjoy skiing. She’s here for the experience.
4. The ‘brah (bro)
Perpetually seeking out the gnarliest lines, these fellas spend their time off-piste. From sun up to sun down, they’re going hard. When they do finally make it back from their death-defying day, you’ll hear them coming. Drowning in absurdly oversized clothing or an ironic onesie, they’ll be using words like “rad” and “sick” to describe the day they just had. Truth be told, however, these guys are good—really good.
5. The four-year-old prodigy
This kid could quite possibly be better than you. You’ve done your homework, spent the money on lessons to perfect your technique, but this three-foot wonder fearlessly cruises past you going Mach 3 with unbelievable skill. Remember when we said that no one is born a skier? This kid might be the exception.
6. The terrain park showoff
You know that guy. His name’s probably Chad. He shreds down the mountain doing ALL of the tricks. “Is he sponsored?” you wonder as you watch “Chad” land—yet another—perfectly-executed 360-allyoop-tail-grab-rocket-air-whatever-flip. Do you get jealous? Maybe a little.
7. The veteran skier
These folks have been skiing for 20+ years, and their equipment shows it. If the rear-entry boots and skis as flat as Nebraska don’t give it away, the ‘80s onesie will. However, don’t let their look fool you. This dedicated group of skiers pioneered the way to modern-day skiing—even if they didn’t adopt the updated gear.
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