22 Beginner Skiing Mistakes to Avoid

This post lists 20 beginner skiing mistakes that new skiers commonly make on the slopes and tips to avoid them. The purpose of this list is to help new skiers reduce common avoidable injuries, accidents, and crashes on the slopes. This list is based on my own personal experience of alpine skiing and from experience in downhill race skiing.

DISCLAIMER: I am not a professional skier or ski instructor. This article should not be used as a substitution for professional instruction or ski lessons.

Skiing can be a hazardous sport, beginner skiers often make some common mistakes as they learn that can lead to significant injuries, crashes, and accidents.

An average recreational skier will fly down a hill at anywhere from 16 to 32 km, and a beginner skier will range between 5 to 16 km. Crashing into something or someone at those speeds can cause significant injury, even for the most advanced skier or fit person.

I’ve had my fair share of crashes both caused by others and myself. Growing up in a ski club, I was exposed to countless stories of awful injuries.

I brutally remember how during a race a teammate dislocated her shoulder mid-run, and how we all listened to her screams as they popped it back in. One member tore his groin skating to the finish line, and another broke his heel because he landed a jump too early.

This doesn’t even cover skiing with the locals outside the race areas. I can’t even recall how many near misses I had with beginner skiers who were ALL OVER the hills, not paying attention, or crossing into my line without looking.

Countless concussions, broken bones, whiplash, pulled muscles and back injuries. We were just race kids at the time, so we would heal. But it was the stories of those who went off into the glades, crashed into trees or other people and did not survive due to head injury that always scared me.

Skiing is considered a family-friendly winter sport, however, many people die or succumb to injury on the hills every year.

Although it may sound like I’m complaining a bit about beginners here, I do recognize everyone has to start somewhere and I’m not excluded from these myself. But that somewhere doesn’t have to be on a rescue sled on your way to the hospital along with your casualties.

Here are just a few beginner skiing mistakes I commonly see on the slopes and some tips on how to safely avoid them!

Selecting the wrong equipment

When I say “wrong equipment” I mostly refer to either the sizing or the durability of most items. There’s nothing wrong with second-hand skis, boots, or clothes! However, you must make sure it fits you properly and will hold up for the season or at least the days you’re using it.

Helmets, goggles, skis and poles are the most common items that I’ve seen wrongfully sized. The right helmet and goggles will depend on your comfort level, head size, and honestly, how much hair you have.

Always try them on before you buy to make sure they are not too big or too small. Remember if you fall, your helmet is the only thing between your skull and the ground.

If you’re renting skis and poles, you can rest assured that they will measure you properly and give you the correct items. Your bindings should be set appropriately so you don’t pop out of your skis every time you fart, or that you don’t have to have a friend throw a rock on your bindings.

But if you’re buying second-hand, do some research on the proper size and type of skis you need.

Using the wrong equipment can hinder your progress. Make sure your skis, boots, and poles are appropriate for your skill level, weight, and the type of skiing you plan to do.

TIP: For poles, wear your ski boots or the footwear you will use for skiing while measuring. Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle, creating a right angle. While holding this position, hold the pole upside down and grip it between the tip and the mediator (circle piece at the end of the pole). Measure the distance from the mediator to the ground.

TIP: Many ski manufacturers provide sizing charts based on your height, weight, skiing style, and ability level. These charts can offer a starting point for selecting the appropriate ski length.

TIP: Do not try to adjust your bindings yourself! This should be done by professional!

TIP: Visit a reputable ski shop and speak with an experienced technician or salesperson. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skiing goals and measurements.

Not wearing a helmet or buckling up

You may see some people in ski magazines, in adverts, or even on the slopes, skiing with only a beanie or tuque on. They may say they’ve been skiing for most of their life like that and have been fine, or that “back in the day” helmets weren’t required for them. DO NOT BE THIS PERSON!

It doesn’t matter how good of a skier you are or how long you’ve been skiing because it only takes one turn with either some bad terrain, poor visibility, a beginner skier, or just plain bad luck to knock you down and send you to the hospital.

You have a significantly better chance of surviving a crash with a helmet on. If you are not wearing a helmet most insurance companies will not insure you in case of injury.

Professional skiers ALWAYS wear helmets. Choose safety over style every time.

If you do make the smart decision to wear a helmet, make sure you are buckling the chin strap properly before skiing each run. I know some people like to loosen the strap or unbuckle on the chairlift between runs for comfort and there’s nothing wrong with that.

As long as you remember to buckle up before taking on another run.

TIP: Wear a helmet! 

TIP: Do a head-to-toe check before you take off on the run. Go through your checks in this fashion, "Goggles on, helmet buckled, jacket zipped up, pole straps on, boot buckles locked, skis free of debris," then you're ready to go!

Not dressing appropriately

Dressing too warmly or too lightly can make your skiing experience uncomfortable. If an unexpected windchill occurs you’ll be shivering on the chairlift up, not to mention on the way down.

Layer your clothing so you can adjust as needed, and don’t forget to protect yourself from the cold, wind, and sun. It’s better to take off clothing and store it in your pack than be in need of it.

Also, remember you are exercising your body so you may sweat. If you’re not wearing quick-drying fabrics the sweat will stay and most likely chill. This will make you feel way more cold than you need to be.

TIP: Read What to Pack for Skiing: Essential Gear, Clothing + Extras for ideas on what to wear.

TIP: Check the weather forecast at the altitude you're skiing out before you head for the slopes.

Not checking the weather

Bluebird days are what every skier wants, but that’s not always the case. Weather changes fast in the mountains so it’s best to be prepared for the worst.

Being at the top of the hill and having to ski through a whiteout or aggressive winds just to get down isn’t a fun time. Checking the weather also will help you pick the right clothing for the day.

TIP: Check the weather at the altitude you're skiing at to avoid bad conditions.

TIP: When in doubt, check out the sky and horizon when on the chairlift for any incoming clouds. 

TIP: Consult apps like OnTheSnow, Ski Tracks, and the Weather Channel for up-to-date forecasts. If you're staying at a ski resort check the resort's weather report, normally posted on the bulletin boards by chairlifts or in the center of the village.

Not planning your day

If you’re familiar with the ski hill, it’s alright to freestyle a bit but if you’re going to a completely new mountain it’s a good idea to look at the hill map.

Also, you need to consider other factors that will affect your ski day if you’re winging it. Here are some things that can impact your ski day and should be included in your plan:

• Weather
• How busy the runs, the hill, and the lines are
• How big the mountain is, and it’s difficulty
• How many runs there are
• Your experience level
• Muscle fatigue and tension
• Type and amount of food consumed, and when you want to eat during the day
• How many people in your ski party and their experience levels
• How hard you “apres skied” the night before aka hungover
• What time do you want to begin and end skiing?

TIP: Make a route plan around the mountain for your trip, 

TIP: If you're skiing with a group of people, make the plan together and discuss changes together as things change. Don't be a dictator.

Starting on difficult runs

No matter your skill level it is always prudent to do warm-up runs on the easiest slopes.

Greens are always good to get your blood pumping, and if you’re completely new start on the Bunny Hill. It’s usually the one with a T-bar lift, button lift, Magic carpet or the shortest chairlift ride.

If you make your first run of the day a double black diamond, your body won’t thank you later. Worst case, you won’t even be able to get down the run and end up calling for a rescue.

It’s important to recognize your skill level and not attempt trails or terrain that are beyond your abilities. Overestimating your skills can lead to accidents and injuries.

Skiing through glades, on moguls, the terrain park, black diamonds, some blues, or most bowls is a big NO-NO for beginner skiers.

SPECIFICALLY calling out beginners who want to run the mogul course or ski the glades.

DISCLAIMER: This is dangerous.

If you get stuck in the moguls, you must ski the moguls to get to the bottom. You are not supposed to ski OVER the moguls but THROUGH them.

If you continuously ski over them, not only will you unintentionally build up speed and catch air, but you will ruin the moguls. See the picture below for the difference I am describing.

This is difficult for advanced skiers so do not attempt unless you’ve received some instruction on skiing moguls, are very flexible in the knees and hips, or are SOL stuck on the mogul course. Good luck to you, my friend.

Skiing through the glades like skiing moguls requires significant skill and experience. You need to be able to make quick turns and smart decisions, as you quickly build up speed. One bad move, or catch your ski on a branch or rock and you will lose control and hit a tree. This is how a lot of skiers sadly die – even the best professionals.

Skiing slowly through the glades is dangerous too. This is not a scenic route to take nor is it for beginners.

The advanced glade skiers will come pummeling through the lines, unbeknownst to them you’re even on the run. Stopping hard in a narrow line is very difficult and can cause crashes very easily.

Some beginners decide they want to ride the chairlift to the top of the mountain to catch the views. Nothing wrong with that. But don’t forget you have to ski the challenging runs to get down.

TIP: If you get stuck on the larger runs, you can move to the side and cautiously side-sweep yourself down until you're in the clear. No harm no foul. Do what works for you!

TIP: On some hills, blues can mean mogul-like terrain, while others just mean longer, tighter runs with more pitch than their greens. You won't know unless you research the hills you're going to. Check out the ski hill map, usually posted at the bottom and top of the hill to plan your route accordingly. 

TIP: Scout your route from the chairlift as you ascend to check for changing conditions on the hill.

Making large S-turns

If you are taking skiing lessons, one of the first things they teach you is the “S-turn”. It’s the basic way to turn by creating an “S” on the slope. Nothing wrong with that.

But what most beginners do is make very LARGE S-turns, in racing this is called a GS turn or “Giant Slalom”. This is because when they are approaching the part of the turn where they must shift their balance, they are still afraid and continue across the run.

If there is no one around you, this is completely fine to do. However, if you are on a very populated hill and do this, you will put yourself in the path of all the oncoming skiers who may or may not be able to maneuver around you.

You may think skiing slowly is safer for yourself, and sometimes it is…but mostly it’s not. Think physics here.

If collide with another skier going roughly the same speed as you the impact will not be as significant nor will you be greatly moved.

I’ve collided and caught skis with other skiers many times, but since we were going about the same speed we were able to slow down together, unravel and separate without even stopping.

However, if you collide with a skier going significantly faster than you, not only will the force be greater (as it’s transferred to you), but as the slow or non-moving obstacle you may be propelled much further away from your original position. Ouch!

TIP: If you are working on your turns stick to one side of the run, preferably the right side. Like driving a car, slower vehicles merge to the right to let faster cars pass on the left to avoid collision or tailgating.

TIP: If you are unsure of your speed, consider the speed of everyone around you and copy someone else's pace that you're comfortable with. If there's no one you feel comfortable following or no one else around, stick to the tip above.

This mistake leads me to the next one…

Expecting others to move out of your way

Unless they are standing on the side of the run watching for an opening, or a ski instructor teaching a lesson, no one will see or hear you if you come barrelling down the run until you pass them.

Screaming to oncoming skiers to move out of the way while you’re coming down will yield squat!

Helmets, balaclavas, music from surrounding speakers, wind, and the elevation will drown out all noise. Most of the time you will have to yell just to talk to someone standing right in front of you.

Always try to stay in control of yourself, as you don’t want to have to collide with another object to stop.

TIP: Try to always manage your speed going downhill. If you find yourself accelerating unnecessarily, start to create turns to slow yourself down.

TIP: The more turns you make the slower you will go! If you have lost control of your speed, start by taking a side-sweeping position on your dominant side. Place weight on your lower leg, while keeping a bend in both legs. The bend should be greater in your leg that's higher - this will slow you down as you skid to stop. Then begin to shift your weight in your hips, knees, and feet from left to right.

Not checking your surroundings

Experienced skiers may have the forethought to consistently check their surroundings before making their next turn, but most people on the hill are focused on themselves and will only turn around at the bottom of the run to see if their party followed them down.

This is especially important on crowded hills and on runs that intersect with others. When you reach the intersection DO NOT just stop at the intersection.

TIP: Slow down then move over to the side so that others behind you can pass when you approach an intersection. 

Standing too upright

Beginners often stand too upright while skiing, which makes it harder to control their movements, turn and maintain balance. Moving up and down on your skis takes practice, and a bit of confidence.

Don’t be afraid to adjust your stance and be more fluid on your skis!

TIP: Have a slight forward lean at your ankles and bend in your knees, similar to a natural athletic stance.

TIP: Practice bending your knees, squatting, and bouncing in your boots when you're on still ground. Use your poles to aid your balance when practicing this.

Falling off the chairlift

I think this one everyone is guilty of this mistake but honestly, it’s the funniest whether you’re the one falling or watching someone else. Falling off the lift can happen at the top or the bottom so best to be prepared for both instances.

There are a few common errors beginners make that may lead to a fall off a lift. Not skiing up to the red line, not watching the lift as it approaches, leaning back instead of sitting down, not using the lap bar, and not planting your skis and pushing off.

When you’re at the top of the hill make sure you clear the landing of the lift because the next chair will be coming up quickly to offload more people and you don’t want to be in their way. Always ski to the left or right of the lift and stop.

TIP: When getting on the lift, remember to ski up to the red line, turn around, and watch the chairlift as it comes around. Grab the back of the chair first and sit down. Face forward and put the lap bar down.

TIP: When getting off the lift, make sure your ski tips are upward so they don't catch on the landing pad and your poles are forward. Once your skis are planted firmly, plant your poles in front and push off to ski forward. Don't rely on the lift pushing you forward because it will eventually turn around!

Leaning back on your skis

Leaning back is a common mistake that can lead to loss of control and falls. Your weight should be centred over your skis, or slightly forward, but not back.

When you lean back, your weight shifts away from the front of your skis. This can make it challenging to control your movements and steer effectively, particularly when you need to initiate turns or navigate steep terrain. It can lead to erratic skiing and an increased risk of accidents.

Skiing relies on shifting your weight to initiate turns. Leaning back makes it more challenging to shift your weight forward and engage the edges of your skis, which are essential for turning. This can result in wide, uncontrolled turns or an inability to turn altogether.

Backseat skiing is generally less efficient. You’ll use more energy trying to stay balanced and in control, which can lead to fatigue more quickly.

TIP: Bend your knees and keep your upper body slightly forward, aligning your center of mass over the middle of your skis.

TIP: Practice leaning forward when you're on flat terrain first to get comfortable leaning.

TIP: Do not overpack your bag so your weight can be easily focused on the center.

Stopping in the middle of the hill

This one makes me angry sometimes…please do not stop in the middle of the hill and expect to be in the safe zone. You may also cause other skiers to crash since you’re in the way.

Snowboarders are more guilty of this but it applies to everyone. You may get away with this on the Bunny Hill but now anywhere else.

Most runs have ridges, bends, and steeper slopes along the way down, because of this there is a good chance that you may not be spotted stopped on the run in time for any oncoming skiers to veer out of the way.

Especially if there are people close behind you!

TIP: If you need to stop, veer to the side of the run. This is the safest place for you to stop. 

Skiing too close to others

When you ski too close to others, it’s like tailgating a car in front of you.

First, it puts you in the danger zone if that skier in front tries to stop.

Second, your attention is focused on the person in front of you instead of the changing terrain.

And third, it just makes you an asshole.

TIP: Just like driving, try to keep about a car's distance away from other skiers. Unless you have sufficient spatial awareness of the people you are skiing with, or you are filming.

TIP: If you want to pass someone on the slopes, start by making noise by yelling "On your left" when you're close to them or tapping your poles together. This will get their attention and allow them time to move out of your way.

Not using poles

Beginner skiers often underutilize and undervalue their ski poles. They either just hold them and use their lower body to ski or have their arms hanging down by their sides.

Proper pole use can help with balance and assist in turning! By planting one pole on the side they want to turn towards and leaning into it, they can guide their skis through the turn more effectively

Ski poles also allow beginners to push themselves along flat or gently sloping terrain, which can conserve energy and make skiing more efficient. This is especially useful on long, flat sections of the ski resort.

TIP: Practice planting your pole before each turn. 

TIP: Keep your hands in front of you and moving to keep balance.

Being afraid of speed

It’s natural to be nervous about speed when you’re starting, but being overly cautious and skiing too slowly can make it difficult to control your movements.

You must gradually work on gaining confidence at higher speeds as you become more skilled.

TIP: Take one turn at a time to manage your speed and remember to plant your pole.

TIP: Avoid zooming straight down the hill while standing straight up. Instead try a ski tuck to increase speed!

Ignoring basic safety rules

Beginners might not be fully aware of mountain safety rules. Some beginners may overestimate their abilities and underestimate the risks associated with skiing. They might believe that skiing is easier than it actually is and therefore neglect safety precautions.

In a group of friends or family members, beginners might feel pressure to keep up with more experienced skiers, leading them to take risks and skip safety measures in order to fit in or avoid appearing inexperienced.

TIP: Always obey trail signs, ski within your ability, and be cautious of other skiers and snowboarders around you.

TIP: As a beginner on a ski resort, do not ski in the out-of-bounds area. 

Expecting to be a Pro on the first day

Beginners may compare themselves to friends or family members who are more experienced skiers. Seeing others skiing confidently can make beginners feel like they should be able to do the same right away.

In group settings, beginners might feel pressured to perform well to fit in with more experienced skiers. This pressure can create unrealistic expectations and cause them to push beyond their current abilities.

In today’s fast-paced society, many people are accustomed to quick results and instant gratification. Beginners may expect to master skiing quickly without realizing that it’s a skill that takes time to develop.

It’s important for beginners to approach skiing with patience, humility, and a willingness to learn. Skiing is a skill that improves with practice and experience, and it’s perfectly normal to struggle at the beginning.

TIP: Skiing is a skill that takes time to develop. Don't get discouraged if you don't see rapid improvement. Be patient and keep practicing.

TIP: Leave your ego in your car. Remember you're there to have fun first!

Not slowing down at the bottom

At the bottom of the run, you’re meant to slow down to a complete stop and then enter the chairlift line.

Some beginners like to zoom through the chairlift line and stop there. Or speed through the village to another chairlift. This can be dangerous as you may crash into others doing the same thing.

At the bottom of the hill people are coming from many more directions than on the slope, so if you’re having issues checking your surroundings while skiing you’ll have more at the bottom.

Most of the time the chairlift line does not have enough zoom for someone to adequately stop, thus making you bump into more people unnecessarily.

TIP: Come to a complete stop at the bottom of the run, then skate using your poles to the chairlift.

TIP: Slow down while skiing through the village square. You don't have to stop but slow down enough to just get you over any small ridges along the way.

Consuming alcohol or cannabis on the slopes

I get it – it may be fun to drink and smoke on the slopes but please realize that it greatly increases your risk of crashing. It’s just like driving impaired only you don’t have a big metal car and airbag to protect you, you have a single helmet.

Stop following social media trends or peer pressure! Having a tipple or toke on the slopes WILL impair your vision and response time. Again skiing is a dangerous sport, and can be even more dangerous when you’re sloshed!

I don’t care if you have a high tolerance or you need to get warm, alcohol and cannabis are not the answer at the time. The time to indulge your senses is apres ski time, it’s the whole point of it.

TIP: If you need a pick-me-up, take a shot of espresso, or 5-hour energy before your ski day.

TIP: Keep a bar of chocolate or packet of chocolates in your ski jacket for a snack on the chairlift. You won't have to worry about it melting either! 

TIP: Wait until apres-ski time to start partying! 

Overloading your pack

Skiing with a pack is pretty common, but sometimes it’s noticeable when someone overpacks! Carrying a heavy pack while skiing is not for beginners, especially when you’re not used to it.

Carrying a heavy pack will disrupt your balance and disrupt your forward lean. This lean is important to maintain during skiing to aid your stability and maneuverability.

TIP: Carry only what you need!

TIP: If you're in a group and have a lot of stuff, try to disperse everything across a few packs so that one person isn't carrying everything.

Not taking lessons

You don’t know how many times I’ve heard “My mom or dad taught me when I was younger”, or the funnier “I’m -insert nationality here- so I’ll learn quick”.

While I’m not doubting anyone’s claims here, when it comes time to hit the slopes these people become way out of their depths.

Many beginners skip lessons and try to learn on their own or from friends. While it’s possible to learn this way, professional instruction can help you build a solid foundation, correct bad habits, and boost your confidence.

TIP: Consider investing in a private or group ski lesson. 

TIP: Watch some lessons on YouTube to get a feel of the fundamentals.

By being aware of these common beginner skier mistakes, you can take steps to avoid them and enjoy a more positive and safe skiing experience.

Remember that skiing is a skill that improves with practice, so don’t be discouraged by initial challenges.

Remember to always follow and respect the Alpine Responsibility Code while skiing. 
Read more about the code here.

Stay safe and have fun friends!

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