Rules of the slopes to follow for beginner skiers

According to our beginner ski report, there are just over six million skiers and snowboarders in Britain, and nearly a third of UK adults (30%) want to learn.

Being a newbie on the slopes can be daunting, but everyone has to start somewhere, and there are simple ways to avoid standing out as beginner on the slopes. From inappropriate gear, a lack of ski etiquette, or limited awareness and common sense on the slopes.

Everyone has to be a beginner at some stage but our experts have provided six ski rules to follow and prevent you looking like a novice and avoid frustrating fellow skiers.

Six ski rules to follow when you are new to the slopes:

1. How to get on and off the ski chairlift

Chairlifts can be intimidating for beginners at first, but this fear passes quickly – and mastering the basics means you won’t be the one struggling to get on and off or, worse, holding up the line when the dreaded stop button is pressed.

The technique is simple: let the lift do the work. Shuffle into your designated position, ensure your poles are in one hand, and sit back in the chair when it hits the back of your leg.

Pay attention at all times, during your chairlift, you will see poles and gloves scattered below, you don’t want to be this person dropping your gear. Don’t risk getting your phone out and enjoy the views instead. If you drop your phone, it may be impossible to retrieve and can ruin your holiday.

When you approach the unloading area, raise the bar once you see the relevant signs and others are ready, keep your skis straight, and gently push away from the chair staying straight. Don’t use your poles or cut across other people’s skis, or you risk causing an embarrassing fall at the exit for you and others.

2. Avoid the Gaper Gap

The so called ‘Gaper Gap’ (or ‘Jerry gap’) is a tell-tale giveaway of inexperience. It refers to a visible strip of forehead between your goggles and helmet, which exposes your skin to wind and can lead to unwanted sunburn.

This may sound harsh, but other skiers often see that gap as a sign you’re clueless. Avoid by pushing your goggles up and helmet low for a snug fit.

3. Don’t stop in the middle of a slope

You may be tired needing a break mid-run or waiting for your group, but the last thing you want to do is stop in the middle of the slope.

It can be extremely dangerous for other skiers or snowboarders, but also for yourself. Those coming down the slope, in particular when it is busy, are expecting the middle to be clear as per expected ski etiquette. Avoiding a collision needs to be every skier’s top priority.

Move to the side of the trail when stopping, but still ensure you are at a visible spot. Never stop in blind spots, narrow sections or just over a hill.

4. Keep your momentum to beat the flat slopes

There are elements of some ski runs that include flat sections, and if you lose speed you may have to take off your equipment and walk.

To avoid this, anticipate the upcoming flat section by checking the trail map and pick up as much momentum as possible when approaching. Do this by being braver and not turning towards the end of a steeper section to pick up the speed, and once you have the momentum keep skis flat and straight.

If your confidence is building, get into a low tuck position as you enter the flat section to further reduce the drag and maximise speed. It is even more important for snowboarders, as it is harder to push themselves if they come to a halt.

5. Where to put your ski pass to avoid delaying others

Ski lifts are free flowing, but frustrations soon build when there is a hold up, and one common culprit is ski pass issues.

To prevent yourself from being the hold up, put your ski pass in a designated and secure pocket. Ski jackets mostly have these on the left sleeve of the jacket or even on the chest area. By doing this, you will breeze past the turnstiles, and the pass will scan through the clothing, you shouldn’t be getting the pass out every lift.

Remove any old ski passes to avoid interference and keep the ski pass away from your phone and wallet to prevent signal issues.

6. Wear high SPF suncream

Wearing suncream with high SPF is as important when skiing as it is on a beach holiday. The reflection from the snow and strong altitude creates strong UV rays, even when skiing during a cloudy day.

You don’t want to be the person leaving the slopes and going back to work with a distinct tan line on your face from wearing ski goggles, so make sure you apply plenty of suncream across your whole face.

These basic ski rules apply to all ski destinations, whether it is a ski region in Europe or further afield.

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