The relationship between skiers and snowboarders can be quite strained, although this is not always obvious. Skiers are infuriated by snowboarders, they accuse them of carelessness and carelessness on the slopes, which, they say, leads to accidents and injuries. Snowboarders, on the other hand, treat skiers as snobs – perhaps due to the perception of skiing as a more traditional and "established" winter sport.
Of course, these views do not always reflect reality and are often based on stereotypes or irrelevant personal experiences. In reality, many winter sports enthusiasts find common ground and respect each other, enjoying skiing in ski resorts together, regardless of equipment preferences. However, harmony does not reign everywhere and not among everyone...
Skier version
There are a few common problems that skiers can face due to the actions of snowboarders:
- For example, snowboarders sometimes stop on slopes in unexpected places, such as behind cliff bends, where they are difficult to see. This can create dangerous situations: other riders may not see them in time and crash.
- Some snowboarders have difficulty using rope tows or rope lifts, which can cause time delays. This is especially noticeable in the case of beginner snowboarders who have not yet mastered the technique of proper skiing.
- As in any sport, there may be those among young people who have not yet fully mastered the rules of conduct and etiquette on the tracks. They tend to ride more adventurously and dangerously, which is a concern among other riders.
And here's what snowboarders think
In turn, skiers are reproached for being – unintentionally, of course – "breaking" the slopes, especially if they often fall or stop.
When beginners try to ride on trails designed for more experienced colleagues, they may lose control, which increases the risk of collisions or falls. What kind of rest is there?
Where is the way out?
If you prefer to ski or snowboard in places where fans of your sport are concentrated, you should pay attention to resorts that can offer special conditions. Depending on your preference, here are a few options to consider.
Resorts without snowboarders
Ski enthusiasts will be interested to know that there are specialized resorts designed exclusively for skiers!
In the United States , there are three such resorts where snowboarders are not allowed to enter:
- Alta, Utah
Located in the picturesque Wasatch mountain area, this resort is known for its "ski-only" policy. It offers excellent conditions for skiing, a ski school, comfortable accommodation with modern hotels, bars, restaurants and spas.
Mad River Glen, Vermont
It is known for its traditional approach to skiing, the rejection of the use of artificial snow and a friendly, almost family atmosphere where everyone knows each other. It was decided not to allow snowboarders here, which is due to the peculiarities of the main lift: it is not adapted for snowboarders in principle.
- Deer Valley, Utah
Located near Alta, this resort is also only open to skiers. It is famous for its high-quality service, high-quality trails and lifts, and attentive staff.
So far, there are no resorts in Europe where snowboarding would be officially prohibited, although from time to time there are rumors about the possible introduction of such restrictions.
And what about snowboarding?
But snowboarders are not so lucky, there are no "dedicated" resorts for them yet. There are a few that, although not exclusively for snowboarders, have become particularly popular among fans of the sport.
These places offer great conditions for snowboarding, a lot of entertainment and amenities, making them an ideal choice for snowboarding enthusiasts:
- Avoriaz, on the border of France and Switzerland
The proportion of fans of the ski track and the slope here is 1:1. In addition to the traditional slopes, Avoria offers four snow parks where snowboarders can perform impressive tricks. Here you can also find picturesque hiking trails, entertainment events, including music festivals, hotels with magnificent mountain views, and well-developed infrastructure for family recreation.
- Alpe d'Huez, France
This resort is popular with snowboarders due to its vibrant social life, not least the local bars that welcome snowboard fans. The resort has cinemas, a climbing wall, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a bowling alley, a nightclub and an ice rink. In addition, Alpe d'Huez offers a variety of slopes for skiers of different skill levels, several snow parks and excellent places for freeriding.
- Val-d'Isère, France
Val-d'Isère in France is a famous ski resort that attracts winter sports enthusiasts, especially snowboarders, due to its impressive conditions and facilities. The resort boasts two snow parks and is famous for its cool snowboarding school, which offers training for both children and adults. Reviews of the school speak of its high level, many consider it one of the best in Europe.
Val d'Isère is also known for its active nightlife, which makes it popular with young people. The resort offers excellent conditions for freeriding and has a well-equipped snow park. Although most of the trails here are designed for beginners, the high quality of the snow and the variety of slopes provide fun for lovers of all levels.
And what camp are you in: skiing or snowboarding?
