The yooner: sliding reinvented

One handle, a small tilted seat, a ski-like runner – and off you go! The yooner is a fun sliding device that sits halfway between skiing and sledging. It delivers the thrill of skiing, without the hassle of learning. Why not give it a go this winter?

The yooner: the savoyard paret, reimagined

Once used by schoolchildren in the French Alps, the paret is the ancestor of the yooner. Children from the Manigod valley rode it from the early 1900s until the 1960s. Now brought back to life, the yooner has become a popular après-ski activity. Like its predecessor, it features a ski-like runner for smooth carving and a handle for easy steering. A shock absorber under the seat adds extra comfort. Usually made of plastic, the yooner is also available in wood for a more traditional feel.

Try the yooner on your next ski holiday!

Easy sliding, fun for everyone

Easy to use, suitable for both young and old. No special physical preparation needed. Ski skills aren’t required either. It’s a friendly activity to enjoy with family or friends. Its lightweight design makes steering easy, allowing for a quick learning curve.

To get started, the technique is simple: sit on the seat and place your legs around the handle. Keep your feet on the snow to control your speed. For your first time, it’s best not to use the handle—keep your arms relaxed by your sides.

To turn, place your hands on the side you want to steer towards. To brake, pull the handle and push down with your feet. Once you’ve got the hang of the yooner, simply move your hand in the direction you want to turn, while the other stays on the handle.

For braking at higher speeds, sliding sideways (drifting) is the safest technique.

The yooner: thrills with complete safety

Surprisingly, the sensations differ from sledging. They’re closer to those of skiing, with a similar trajectory. Non-skiers can enjoy the thrill of sliding without a long learning curve. This activity carries low risk and you can brake at any time. The yooner stops easily.

The seat is only about twenty centimetres off the ground, which means the chance of injury is very low. For a safe start, some ski schools even offer lessons.

Where and when trying the yooner?

Around sixty resorts offer this activity, which has the advantage of being affordable: hiring a yooner costs about eight euros a day. All you need is basic ski clothing and snow boots, and wearing a helmet is recommended.

You can enjoy it during the day—for example, at Les Arcs, where you can take the lifts up and ski down on a yooner. At La Plagne Montalbert, free beginner sessions are available on Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm.

There’s even a dedicated event called the “Yooner Days” on 9th February and 1st March 2016, with free yooner rentals, games, and entertainment.

Looking for a unique and social experience? Some resorts offer après-ski yooner sessions. At La Plagne, instructors organise a 30-minute sunset ride—memories guaranteed!