Types Of Skiing

At Ski West we offer many different types of ski clothing to hire: from snow Jackets and ski suits, to safety accessories such as helmets. But did you realise that there are also many variations of skiing for you to participate in? Some of the different types of skiing can be enjoyed as a major sport in the Winter Olympics but for those of you who can’t wait that long we explain a few of the most popular skiing variations.

In the 5000 years since skiing first began it has evolved and developed into many different types of skiing, and the most popular of today include:

Alpine Skiing – this is the “skiing” understood by most people who talk about skiing. It is also known as downhill skiing. This type of skiing evolved from Cross Country Skiing and the skiers are challenged by controlling their skis and the direction in which they are travelling whilst skiing down different gradient slopes.

Telemark Skiing – in this discipline, pioneered by Sondre Norheim in 1868, the heels of the ski boots are not attached to the skis.

Cross-Country Skiing – this skiing discipline, also known as Nordic Skiing, is seen as a less intensive way to ski and takes place on flat land, covered by snow. The Cross-Country skiing technique is regarded as relatively easy to learn.

Freestyle Skiing – this discipline is relatively new. It involves developing tricks and jumps over mogul runs and ramps.

Ski Jumping – this is a discipline which involves skiing down a hill with a take-off ramp at the end of the hill which enables the “jump” part of ski jumping to take place. It is more like flying than jumping and the distance covered can be impressive. It is a competitive sport in which the judges give points for length of jump and style.

If you are interested in hiring ski clothing for any of the above types of skiing then please do not hesitate to get in contact with us by ringing 01453 819247 or by sending an email to info@Ski-west.co.uk