How To Talk Like A Pro Skier

3 words that describe types of skiing

Alpine skiing run symbol
Alpine skiing

this is what most people talk about when they say skiing. Technically it means skiing on boots with heels fixed to the skis. Usually you're going downhill

Nordic skiing run symbol
Nordic skiing

often used synonymously with cross-country skiing, technically this is where the heels of the boots are not fixed to the skis. Usually you're going on flatter terrain (i.e., skiing as a means of transit, not riding up a lift to get to the top so you can speed down!)

Telemark skiing run symbol
Telemark skiing

combines elements of both Alpine & Nordic skiing. Heels are not fixed to skis, but there are downhill race components

9 words that describe types of runs (a ski trail)

Glade run symbol
Glade

runs through the trees
let's hit the glades, man'

Slalom run symbol
Slalom

runs with manmade poles or gates, you're supposed to weave through them
I'm going to go slalom skiing tomorrow

Mogul run symbol
Mogul

runs where you need to ski around the big bumps in the snow
most advanced runs are covered in moguls

Groomer run symbol
Groomer

runs that have been groomed by snocats (to either pack, redistribute, or flatten the snow). Also called 'corduroy' since they look like the pants!
let's go find some groomers

Chute run symbol
Chute

runs that are narrow and bounded on both sides by obstacles
I need an adrenaline boost, let's find a chute!

Deer run run symbol
Deer run

long, meandering runs that leisurely bring you down the mountain
just take that deer run all the way down

Green run symbol
Green

the easiest type of run, symbolized by a green circle
I need to warm up on some greens

Blue run symbol
Blue

intermediate runs, symbolized by blue squares
let's hit some blues in the afternoon

Black run symbol
Black

also called Black Diamond, or just diamond, these are advanced runs, symbolized by, you guessed it, a black diamond! There are also double and triple black diamonds, which are even more difficult!
the double black was sick man! and the diamonds out back are pretty great too

3 words that describe parts of the mountain

Bowl run symbol
Bowl

a big mountain basin, exactly like it sounds. The sides are often very steep and covered in black diamond runs
let's get up to the bowl early in the day!

Backcountry run symbol
Backcountry

depending on context, can either mean territory that is completely out of boundaries of a resort and therefore you go at your own risk (if even permitted), or within the bounds of a resort, but not mail_tontained in any way (usually backside, in this instance). In both cases, expect tons of natural obstacles!
too crowded here, let's hit up the backcountry

Bunny slope run symbol
Bunny slope

also called bunny hill, describes the really easy area that just has green runs
stick with the bunny slopes my friend

5 words that describe types of snow

Powder run symbol
Powder

the holy grail: new snow that's light and fresh, and not yet covered in tracks! Powder skis are skis that are wider than usual to provide greater surface area, allowing riders to glide over non-packed snow
3 feet of fresh powder last night, wahoo!

Crud run symbol
Crud

after powder packs down from riders, it packs into lumps of snow littering the ground
ride around the crud!

Slush run symbol
Slush

melted snow on the ground
let's get out of here, this is all slush

Crust run symbol
Crust

when top snow has melted down and become a layer of ice so it sounds very 'crunchy'
oh man, you hear that? this is all crust here!

Ice run symbol
Ice

the worst thing ever, period
back inside folks, it's all ice today

3 words that describe types of lifts

Poma lift run symbol
Poma lift

also called platter or button lift, the button is a 'seat' of sorts that you stick between your legs and let it drag you up

Rope tow run symbol
Rope tow

hold the rope and it drags you forward, often in beginner areas covering short distances

Magic carpet run symbol
Magic carpet

a conveyor belt that you fully stand on with your skis or board; in beginner areas covering short distances

4 words that describe techniques

Pizza run symbol
Pizza

cross your skis in the shape of a pizza to slow down and stop, the point of the pizza points downhill
pizza out, pizza out!

French fries run symbol
French fries

make your skis parallel like two French fries; this is how they should be when you want to move
let me see those French fries!

Herringbone run symbol
Herringbone

the technique skiers use to walk uphill, like reverse pizza
come on man, show me that herringbone and get up here

Carving run symbol
Carving

the perfect turn that you're waiting for, the edge of the skis or board dig(s) into the snow and magically you turn without losing speed, leaving a thin trail behind you
dude look at that guy carving

And 1 bonus word for fun...

Après-ski run symbol
Après-ski

literally 'after ski'; all the socials that happen after a long day on the mountain
what are you guys doing après-ski? how about hot tub and drinks?