How to Ski on Fake Snow

by Marina Hanes

Overview

Man-made snow is heavier than real snow and sticks better to the ground. However, it can also create a slicker and riskier path down a hill or mountain. Ski chalets often prefer to put down a layer of man-made snow to create a longer-lasting base, especially during any spells of warm weather during the season. Fake snow enables you to ski even when the weather isn't cooperating.

How to Ski on Fake Snow

Step 1

Wear protective clothing on your body and face. Fake snow is heavier and becomes compacted quicker, so you want to have padded clothing to break your falls. Plus, ski goggles are helpful when the snow-making machines are spitting snow all over the trail.
Step 2

Forcefully dig your ski poles into the ground when you're at a standstill in man-made snow. You can easily slide on man-made snow, so use your poles to give you some traction. Or, if you're stopped on a hill or mountain, dig the sides of your skis into the snow and use the wedge technique with parallel turns.
Step 3

Make wide turns down the hill or mountain so you can get used to the feel of fake snow. This gives you a chance to make your turns smoother and more controlled.
Step 4

Watch the ground ahead of you, because man-made snow can turn to ice quickly after it has been skied over several times. Be on the lookout for slippery spots that are shiny and polished. These areas will increase your speed and can potentially cause you to fall.
Step 5

Keep your knees slightly bent when you are going down a steep hill to control the direction of your skis better. Standing straight will increase your speed and limit your balance, which will make you more likely to fall on the hard, fake snow.

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Winter coat Ski pants Gloves Skis Goggles
Winter coat
Ski pants
Gloves
Skis
Goggles
Do not eat fake snow, because like real snow it's probably contaminated with dirt and pollution.
Do not eat fake snow, because like real snow it's probably contaminated with dirt and pollution.