{"id":3344,"date":"2019-02-19T10:15:36","date_gmt":"2019-02-19T10:15:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.alps2alps.com\/?p=3344"},"modified":"2020-01-22T08:09:07","modified_gmt":"2020-01-22T08:09:07","slug":"off-piste-skiing-ready","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/testwp.alps2alps.com\/blog\/off-piste-skiing-ready","title":{"rendered":"Off-Piste Skiing: How to Know You\u2019re Ready"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"A

So, you\u2019ve been on your fair share of ski trips and you\u2019re feeling pretty confident out on the groomed slopes. But how do you know if you\u2019re ready to go off-piste?<\/p>\n

Veteran off piste skiers love this type of skiing for the sense of adventure it brings and the feeling of being immersed in unspoilt nature. However, off piste skiing<\/strong> is not without its risks. To ski off piste safely<\/a>, you need to be certain you\u2019re ready.<\/p>\n

For intermediate skiers, going off piste for the first time can be a daunting (and exciting) prospect. We\u2019ve put together some of the questions to ask yourself before taking the plunge.<\/p>\n

What Does Skiing Off Piste Mean?<\/h2>\n

First things first, what does off-piste skiing actually mean?<\/p>\n

The French word \u2018piste\u2019 means groomed slope. So, going off-piste means abandoning the groomed runs for unmarked terrain or backcountry trails.<\/p>\n

Off-piste, backcountry skiing or fresh powder skiing- whatever you want to call it- it\u2019s all about getting back to nature on ungroomed trails.<\/p>\n

While a groomed slope is cleared of potential hazards such as rocks and ice, an ungroomed off-piste slope is free from intervention, including signs telling you where to go. The thrill of going it on your own is what draws skiers to off piste terrain. However, off-piste brings extra risks that you need to be aware of before heading out.<\/p>\n

Is Skiing off Piste Dangerous?<\/h2>\n

Due to the very nature of off-piste skiing, it is considered more dangerous than skiing in groomed ski areas.<\/p>\n

However, with the right experience, knowledge and care, you can avoid hazards and make the most of the mountain.<\/p>\n

One of the hazards involved in off-piste skiing is the risk of avalanche. Ensure you\u2019re familiar with the avalanche warning signs<\/a> and go with a knowledgeable mountain guide to stay out of trouble. Plan carefully, research your route and don\u2019t go out in adverse weather conditions.<\/p>\n

Other hazards include icy patches and rocks. This is where a good basic skiing technique comes in handy to make quick turns if needs be.<\/p>\n

The Benefits of Off-Piste Skiing<\/h2>\n

Don\u2019t let us put you off by listing the dangers. Although it\u2019s important to be aware of what could go wrong when skiing<\/a>, going off-piste can be an incredible experience.<\/p>\n

Skiers and snowboarders alike love the freedom off piste skiing brings. The untouched snow and crowd-free slopes<\/a> make for an exhilarating ride. Without other skiers getting in your way, you can really test your speed.<\/p>\n

The scenery along off-piste trails are usually the best in the Alps as they remain unblemished, allowing you to experience the mountain in all its natural glory.<\/p>\n

What Does an Intermediate Skier Look Like?<\/h2>\n

Off piste ski holidays should only be taken on by intermediate and expert skiers who have a little bit of experience behind them.<\/p>\n

But how do you know if you\u2019re at intermediate level?<\/p>\n

You\u2019re probably at intermediate level if;<\/p>\n