For many years the only classification system for skiers included Beginner, Intermediate, and Expert skier. However, a more refined system of assessing skill levels has evolved as a means to classify skiers with advanced skiing abilities.
The Skier Skill Level Classification system is based on nine levels. Becoming an advanced or expert skier is a matter of mastering these skill levels, so, you can grade your skill level against the goal of becoming an all-mountain or expert skier.
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- You ski for the first time.
- You are able to ski cautiously on flatter terrain.
- You can make a rounded turn on flatter terrain.
- You can make a rounded turn with your skis together at the end of a turn.
- Your skis are parallel most of the time on easy intermediate terrain.
- Your skis are parallel throughout the turn and you ski intermediate terrain comfortably.
- Your skis are parallel throughout each turn and you are comfortable going over small bumps.
- You ski parallel on steep terrain and feel comfortable with moguls on intermediate to advanced runs.
- You ski aggressively on all types of terrain and are able to handle a variety of skiing situations on all types of terrain.
- You may be interested in learning freestyle skiing tricks like a daffy (a mid-air split) or a 180 (an aerial 180 degree rotation).
Tips:
- Know your approximate skill level and honestly explain that level when you sign up for lessons. This will give you more learning time on the slopes.
- Be comfortable at whatever skill level you are skiing. Work to attain only the skiing level that you can physically handle.
- Once you have mastered one level, move on to the next.
- Regardless of your skill level, continue to take ski lessons.
- Advanced skier lessons are available which help you maintain and improve your skills in high level skiing, including glade, steep, and mogul skiing.
What You Need:
- Equipment appropriate for your level of skiing and ability.
- Group or individual advanced skier lessons.
- Slope time - as much skiing time as you can get.
