Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast or a relative newbie to the sport, picking the right ski conditions when hitting the slopes is a great way of ensuring a good experience. So, what type of snow is the best to ski on? Continue reading below to find out more.
Ideal Ski Conditions
While some skiers prefer certain types of snow, normal weather and snow patterns allow for fun skiing for beginners and advanced skiers alike. Ski conditions determine how hard or easy it can be to ski or snowboard. It may sound strange to non-skiing experts, but there are actually different types of snow that impact the way you can ski or snowboard.
Types of snow
Depending on where you hit the slopes, there is a difference in the feel and difficulty of the snow because of its variety. There are a few different types of snow based on their texture.
One type of snow, which is often referred to as dry snow, is easier to ski on for beginners because it involves less carving, although it can slow you down. This type of snow has more air pockets than wet snow, which makes it lighter and more powdery. Wet snow, on the other hand, has larger snowflakes and goes through melt-and-freeze cycles, producing a layer of crust on the snow.
Corn snow appears during spring time and is a result of the freeze and melt cycle during those months of the year. The name derives from corn-looking snow that forms on the surface following the freeze-melt cycle.
Finally, granular snow is snow that is made up of tiny particles of ice and makes for easy skiing.
What are the Best Ski Conditions?
Many skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts just prefer a crisp, white sheet of snow to use but there is an ideal set of skiing conditions. The temperature typically ranges between -6 and -1 degrees celsius with a soft, almost pillow-like covering of snow.
Powder snow is arguably the best type of snow for both professional and beginner skiers. It encourages more experienced skiers to pick up more speed to avoid sinking into the powder snow, while novices are able to appreciate the softness as they get to grips with their technique.
Powder is also known to cause fewer injuries because of its cushion-like feel, making it perfect for skiers of all skill levels. Powder snow is soft and fluffy so provides a soft landing for crashes and falls.
Best Time to Ski
Now we know the best ski conditions for hitting the slopes in terms of snow, what about the time of year and weather?
Well, many people consider spring to be the perfect time of year to hit mountainous ski slopes and resorts. The reason for this is that the temperature of the air has risen considerably from winter, making it much more comfortable to be outdoors, but there is still crisp snow on the slopes to ski on. Spring allows skiers to lose a layer of clothing while still being protected and warm because of its warmer temperatures.
The snow on the slopes is still deep at springtime from the accumulation of snow throughout storms in the winter months.
Scenery
Would you consider scenery to be a prerequisite when looking for the best ski conditions? Air temperature and snow composition are obviously the most important aspects when skiing or snowboarding, but the backdrop and your view are also essential.
Chamonix’s Mont Blanc provides a truly stunning natural beauty, while the mountains of Zermatt create the most picturesque backdrop for days on the slopes. Is there anything better than hurtling down a slope, in full control, on top of crisp snow, with one of the greatest views planet Earth has to offer in front of you? Imagine the sun glistening over the top of a mountain peak and shining off the powder snow - perfection!
Enjoy the Best Ski Conditions at The Snow Centre
For people who are unable to get over to mainland Europe for a spot of skiing, there is always something more local. Our location in Manchester offers guests the UK’s longest indoor real snow slope, while The Snow Centre Hemel Hempstead provides London and the surrounding areas with an equally impressive indoor slope. Whichever location you choose, you’ll find beautifully managed real snow to practise on.
Go skiing or snowboarding at The Snow Centre and sample the incredible real snow slopes we have on offer, making you feel like you’re at a ski resort in the Alps.
The Snow Centre is packed with fun things to do for the whole family, and what says fun more than real snow – and lots of it? From ski lessons at The Snow Centre Manchester and Hemel Hempstead to fun family days out, we’ve got something for everyone. There’s even a comfortable viewing gallery where you can sit back, enjoy a coffee, and watch the excitement unfold.
If you have any questions about booking a lesson or any of the facilities on offer across our locations, be sure to contact us, and a member of our team will be happy to help.
