When you think of hitting of the slopes, alpine skiing (also called downhill skiing) is undoubtedly the first thing that comes to mind. It’s an idyllic image: warmly clad skiers flying down snowy mountain pistes at high speeds. But how did alpine skiing become the quintessential winter activity it is today? As part of our Guide to Ski Activities, let's take a brief look at the history and what you need to take on your first ski holiday with confidence.
What is Alpine skiing?
Skiing as a mode of transportation has been around for thousands of years but didn’t become a recreational activity until the late 1800s. In 1888, Norwegian Fridtjof Nanse inspired the masses with his trek from Norway to Sweden on skis. His journey sparked an interest in what became Nordic skiing.
However, not all European countries had the rolling terrain necessary for the practice. The Alps, for example, were much too steep. Going downhill, rather than cross country, was more feasible. Thus, Alpine skiing (from the word Alps) was born.
Alpine skiers make their way down steep slopes with the help of skis and ski poles. Amateurs can achieve speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, so it’s the perfect sport if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered scenery as you spend the day out in nature.
Prerequisites for Alpine skiing
There are no specific prerequisites for skiing, hence its widespread popularity amongst holidaymakers. It’s the perfect activity for families and children as young as three years old. However, do keep in mind before investing that skiing is a sport, and there is a learning curve!
Gliding down ski runs may look easy and effortless, but it’s not. Not at first, anyway!
Staying balanced requires a good amount of core work and staying the course engages the leg muscles. If you’re rather sedentary off the slopes, we recommend doing some strengthening exercises in the weeks leading up to your holiday. You’ll develop a bit of endurance and take more easily to alpine skiing.
If you’re ready to hit the (home) gym and then strap on your ski boots, check out our overview of alpine skiing sessions.
A typical alpine skiing session
The possibilities are endless at the world’s great ski areas. But we’ll look at three main options to give you an idea of what’s out there. Choose from more a supervised experience with a set framework or venture off into unknown territory.
Alpine skiing lessons
Ski lessons are a great option for first timers. Both kids and adults can learn the basics or improve the skills they already have. Group lessons are a great way to meet fellow skiers at your level! The most well-known schools in France are the ESF (Ecole du ski français) and the ESI (Ecole du ski international). Just choose your level. No need to race downhill. Greater speed will come in time!
Not sure of your level? Check out our Guide to the ESF Ski School.
Skiing independently on groomed pistes
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be able to ski independently. You could start doing this as soon as you’ve finished your first lesson! Green ski runs are designed for beginners—they’re the flattest and the widest pistes—the perfect place to practice turning and stopping without getting run over by overzealous pros. Once you're mastered turning and changing direction, why not try a slalom course?
Are green ski runs too easy? Check out our guide to the other Ski Run Colours.
Skiing in the backcountry
Off-piste skiing is not for beginners, but it is a worthy goal for anyone starting out. Slopes are naturally occurring (that is, they’re not groomed or marked), so this is the domain of the advanced skier. Conditions are unpredictable out in the wild—ski runs can be bumpy or riddled with obstacles and avalanche risks aren’t zero. Those who are versed in survival skills could well find them useful.
Equipment and clothing for downhill skiing
Having the right ski wear and equipment can vastly improve your experience, so it’s worth taking the time to explore your options. Alpine skiing’s immense popularity is both a blessing and a curse—you’ll find ski wear and equipment just about everywhere, but it can be overwhelming when you’d like to make a purchase. We’ll give you an overview of the basics and suggest a few quality brands that won’t break the bank.
Equipment
Downhill skiing is all about the equipment. You can’t go skiing without skis, bindings, ski boots, and a helmet! Ski poles, although they might seem like extras to a beginner, are also essential for balance. You might want to start out by renting your equipment—that way, a knowledgeable salesperson can advise you. If you’d like to purchase your equipment, here are some things to consider:
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Alpine skis are available in all shapes and sizes. Light and flexible skis are best for beginners. Take your height and body weight into consideration and think about what kind of terrain you’ll be taking on.
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Bindings attach your ski boots to your skis. They can be fixed to your skis or removable, depending on your preference.
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Ski boots should be tried with your ski socks on. Take a skiing stance to make sure they’ll feel right when you get to the slopes. Consider the flex (or suppleness) of the boots.
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Helmets should fit snugly (but not be too tight) and ideally have a safety certification. EN 1077 and EN 1078 are most common in Europe. You’ll have your choice of materials.
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Alpine ski poles are standard and work for most skiers. The have a straight shaft with a comfortable grip and strap. Again, tailor the length to your height.
For an in-depth look at each piece of gear, check out our Ski Packing List.
Ski wear
You’ll be outside on the slopes for most of the day (if you’ve got the endurance for it!), so it’s important that you’re warm and comfortable. You don’t want your dream holiday to turn into an unpleasant experience in the cold. Layering is key.
Here’s a quick recap of the clothing you’ll need:
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A base layer: a thermal pants or leggings and a shirt
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A mid-layer: either a jumper or a fleece jacket
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A top layer: a ski jacket and gloves
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Warm socks
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Ski goggles and sun cream
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A wool hat
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A scarf
Still not sure what to pack for your ski holiday? Check out our guide: What to Wear Skiing.
Where can I go alpine skiing in France?
France is home to the Alps, and there is no better place to go alpine skiing. Ski areas at the highest altitudes are usually the most in-demand because have a longer season (generally from December to April). And steeper slopes mean more downhill options. The Northern Alps boasts over a hundred miles of ski runs and stunning backcountry, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for you.
We’ve listed some of the most iconic alpine ski areas below.
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Chamonix is a world-famous ski area with a well-deserved reputation for breath taking scenery and high-quality ski instruction. Located at the foot of Mont Blanc and home to epically steep terrain, it’s a haven for experienced skiers.
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Val d’Isere and its sister resort in Tignes are like a two-for-one deal—300km of pistes in all. Val d’Isere operates a free ski lift to the nursery slopes for beginners. If you’re ready for the more difficult slopes, you’ll have you pick.
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Courchevel is ideally located in The Three Valleys, the largest lift-linked ski area in the world. Composed of six villages, and nicknamed the ‘ski capital of the world,’ you’re sure to get your fill of alpine skiing and just about any winter sport you can imagine.
