The majority of the skiers are usually happy just being able to ski the piste, but what happens when it changes due to the snow? What do you do then? This is why knowing the different types of snow on the mountains is helpful when you are out to ski!
There are several different types of snow out there that you can experience. You will most likely experience these kinds of snow when traveling to the mountains for a ski resort vacation. Though we can only hope for it to be fluffy and soft powdered snow, it is only sometimes the case, and you may even encounter dense snow, well-groomed courses,, or solid frozen ice for the run. There are a few things that you can do to prepare yourself in advance, but you should still have the greatest experiences on the mountain. Let’s start by identifying the different types of snow!
Different Types Of Snow On The Mountains
Powder
It is the absolute best and also the dream for most winter sports enthusiasts, whether on skis or a board. Remember that there are many subtypes of powder snow, from wet and heavy to light and dry. Powder snow usually occurs when a large amount of fresh snow that has yet to be altered by the piste bashers or the severe weather conditions accumulates. While powdery snow may seem beautiful, it can be challenging for novices to ski on since it offers little resistance and has a greater float in the turns. Make sure you arrive early to the mountain to secure a spot on untracked runs and have the most memorable skiing or snowboarding experience of your lifetime!
Packed Powder
This is a mild step down compared to powder snow. This kind of snow is usually not that soft since it is generally skied on throughout the entire day and is even groomed at times. Nonetheless, it cannot be denied that since it is easier to set the edge, this kind of snow becomes easier to ski on, no matter the skier’s skill level. However, if you are still searching for fresh snow in these conditions, you will likely come across some to play on if you go off the main beaten path.
Groomed Snow
Although there are many subclasses for this type of snow, groomed slopes are just what they sound like. The grooming machines usually work by going down the mountains overnight and sometimes even during the day, which is rare, to prepare these runs for the skiers. Gliding down the recently groomed corduroy trails can still be gratifying, even though it is not as soft as powder snow. What makes groomed snow ideal for beginners is the consistency that it provides throughout different runs. These are almost always found at all the major resorts.
Slushy Snow
The snowmelt that takes place during the springtime usually has a slushy quality. It is better to stay cautious in fully melted areas during these conditions since the ground underneath can easily damage your snowing or skiing equipment. Additionally, having slushy snow on the ground will make your entire skiing or snowboarding experience a lot more different than usual. Since slushy snow usually occurs in wet weather conditions, it would be in your favor if you carried/put on some waterproof gear to prevent yourself from getting completely soaked in case you fell.
Icy Snow
This kind of snow is considered one of the worst kinds, if not the worst. If you are familiar with concrete snow, then this type of snow will be familiar. Typically, this kind of snow forms when the snow is packed or even when the weather conditions are icy. It is not fun to ski on this kind of snow since it is also quite unforgiving and hard. However, the worst part is that it can become very painful if you fall on it. Even in these conditions, skiing and snowboarding can still be enjoyable; the key is regulating your speed and momentum to get the most out of your time on the mountains. It would help if you made sure that the edges on your skis or snowboards are sharp and that they are also properly tuned.
Crud Snow
Most people are divided when it comes to crud snow. It is loved by some and hated by others, and there is no in-between. Crud snow remains after everyone has plowed through the snow at the end of the day, only leaving lumps in some areas and swept clean in others, revealing the compacted snow underneath. Some see this as an excellent opportunity to work on their techniques, hop and twist over obstacles, gain speed on the smoother parts, and pelt their friends with extra snow. For others, it’s a terrible combination of surfaces that fatigues the legs, aches the knees, and sends people who can’t control their edges properly into a panic. Whatever you look at it, you need to know that technique is required to ski on this type of snow properly.
Like breakable crust, the quick bumps will require a lot of knee flexing from your end. Try to get at ease with your edges and maintain fluid and consistent turns. It’s easier said than done since you are highly likely to come across crud snow at the end of the day.
Conclusion
If you are still determining the snow conditions on the mountain, you should always call the resort you are staying in to find out about the slopes. You could also check out the resort website since most of them have snow reports up there, so you can have an idea. Since you know the differences between the types of snow, all that’s left is for you to go out and enjoy the mountains!
