As soon as the first flakes fall, the mountains are invaded by a multitude of silhouettes slipping on long spatulas. Speed, adrenaline, thrills, so many emotions in the program of a day of skiing. But what is really this discipline? Alpine skiing, also called downhill skiing, can be summed up very simply by the use of ski boots, two skis (or only one, for the experienced ones: the monoski), two poles, and a snowy slope. Downhill skiing is for everyone. It is accessible to all levels, from the beginner to the most experienced athlete. The French Ski Federation, the FFS, easily recognizable thanks to the red uniforms accompanies, since 1937, the skiers in their sports journeys. In simple alpine tourism, to go down the mountain at its own pace, up to the level of competition, everyone will find happiness. Alpine skiing is distinguished by several disciplines:
No doubt the original and the most known alpine skiing. It mixes speed with control on a snowy track.
The giant is for experienced skiers. The idea is to get down while there are a number of turns. This discipline demands a certain knowledge of the sport. The giant mixes with the super giant that with more curbs associates speed and precision.
A slope marked with poles of different colors? No doubt you are facing a slalom. A discipline for experienced skiers that requires reaction, control and technique.
Extreme sport that includes different variations and also the boss of ski, the skicross, the half pipe and the acrobatic jump. Freestyle is practiced in dedicated places like snowparks. Hors-piste is also an appreciated terrain to play for skiers used to freestyle but want vigilance and extreme terrain.
Skiing requires equipment:
Ski shoes are composed of different elements. The exterior is rigid. Made of thick plastic, it recovers integrally the foot and reaches to the calf. If the hull is rigid it must nevertheless leave a certain freedom of flexion. The interior of the shoes must be very comfortable. It’s a think slipper which can even be heated in case it’s cold. The shoe is also equipped with a thick sole which can be clicked on the skis thanks to fasteners and hooks: it is necessary to bind the shoes well. The foot must be kept firmly.
The sticks are essential for ski because they help with the skier’s balance. In competitions you can find them bent to let the skier go easier on the track.
This is of course essential for skiing, being that the ski the intermediary is between the skier and the snow. They should thus be chosen with care. Parabolic for slalom enthusiasts, profiles for beginners and experts in search of speed, each form of ski has its specificities, to adapt to all.
Because we are not always very careful and dangers can present themselves on the slopes, wearing a helmet is very much recommended.
France is the biggest ski domain in the world. Endowed with numerous lifts and vast domains, open from October to May, France offers ski lovers a varied offer.
This resort situated in the heart of the 3 Valleys at an altitude of 1850 m is ideal for the whole family. Part of a big ski domain, the resort offers also the possibility to practice numerous other activities.
Val d’Isere is a historic and exceptional resort. It has a characteristic village and a marvelous ski domain, the resort also gets pretty during the festivities its offers on the slopes.
Situated in the Southern Alps is Serre Chevalier, an immense ski space combining heritage and well-being.
The Massif Central is no exception, with the resort Super Besse, which offers a wide range of activities.
