Top 30 Slang For Ski – Meaning & Usage

Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just trying to sound cool, we’ve got you covered with the top slang words for ski. From fresh pow to gnarly wipeouts, this listicle is packed with all the ski lingo you need to know. So grab your goggles and get ready to shred the mountain with style and swagger!

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1. Shred

When someone says they’re going to “shred” the slopes, it means they plan to ski with speed and skill. This term is often used to describe someone who is skiing at a high level or performing impressive tricks.

For example, “I can’t wait to hit the mountain and shred some fresh powder!”
A skier might say, “He’s an amazing skier, he can shred down any slope.”
Someone might comment, “I saw her shred that double black diamond, she’s fearless!”

2. Rip

To “rip” on skis means to ski with great speed, power, and control. This term is often used to describe someone who is skiing aggressively and pushing the limits of their abilities.

For instance, a skier might say, “I’m going to rip down this mogul run!”
A friend might comment, “You really ripped it up on the slopes today, nice job!”
Someone might ask, “Have you seen him ski? He absolutely rips!”

3. Carve

To “carve” on skis means to make smooth, controlled turns by using the edges of the skis to dig into the snow. This term is often used to describe someone who is skiing with precision and grace.

For example, “I love the feeling of carving through fresh powder.”
A skier might say, “Watch me carve this perfect line down the slope.”
Someone might comment, “She has excellent technique, her turns are always so smooth and precise.”

4. Shredder

A “shredder” is a term used to describe someone who is a skilled and aggressive skier or snowboarder. It is often used to refer to someone who is able to navigate difficult terrain or perform impressive tricks.

For instance, “He’s a real shredder on the slopes, always pushing the limits.”
A friend might say, “You’re such a shredder, I can’t keep up with you!”
Someone might comment, “I saw her hit that jump, she’s a total shredder!”

5. Pow

“Pow” is short for “powder,” which refers to fresh, untouched snow that has not been packed down or groomed. This term is often used to describe ideal skiing conditions, where the snow is light and fluffy.

For example, “Let’s go find some pow and make some turns!”
A skier might say, “I love the feeling of floating through pow.”
Someone might comment, “The mountain got dumped on last night, it’s going to be a pow day!”

6. Gnarly

This term is used to describe something that is extreme, intense, or exciting. It can refer to a difficult ski run, a big jump, or a trick that requires skill and bravery.

For example, “That double black diamond run was gnarly!”
A skier might say, “I just landed a gnarly backflip!”
Another might exclaim, “The terrain park has some gnarly features!”

7. Faceplant

This term is used to describe a fall while skiing where the skier lands face-first in the snow. It can happen when a skier loses balance, catches an edge, or fails to execute a trick properly.

For instance, “I hit a patch of ice and faceplanted.”
A skier might say, “I tried to do a trick off a jump, but I ended up faceplanting.”
Another might joke, “I faceplanted so hard, I think I left an imprint in the snow!”

8. Gaper

This term is used to describe someone who is easily identifiable on the slopes due to their lack of skiing or snowboarding ability or their choice of clothing. It is often used in a lighthearted or teasing manner.

For example, “Look at that gaper trying to navigate the mogul field.”
A local skier might say, “The mountain is always filled with gapers during the holiday season.”
Another might comment, “I used to be a gaper when I first started skiing.”

9. Après

This term refers to the social activities and relaxation that take place after a day of skiing. It can include enjoying drinks, food, and conversation with friends or fellow skiers.

For instance, “Let’s meet up at the lodge for some après ski.”
A skier might say, “Après is my favorite part of the ski day.”
Another might suggest, “We should find a cozy bar for some après-ski drinks.”

10. Chatter

This term is used to describe the vibration or shaking that occurs in skis when they lose contact with the snow surface. It can happen when the skis are not properly tuned or when the skier is skiing at high speeds.

For example, “I was going so fast that my skis started to chatter.”
A skier might say, “I need to get my skis tuned to reduce chatter.”
Another might comment, “Chatter can make it difficult to carve turns effectively.”

11. Huck

To “huck” means to take a big jump or launch oneself into the air while skiing or snowboarding. It usually refers to a jump that requires a lot of skill or bravery.

For example, “He hucked himself off a huge cliff and landed perfectly.”
In a discussion about freestyle skiing, someone might say, “She’s known for hucking massive tricks in the terrain park.”
A ski instructor might advise, “Start with smaller jumps and work your way up to hucking the big ones.”

12. Yard sale

When a skier falls and loses all of their gear, such as skis, poles, and goggles, it’s referred to as a “yard sale.” The term comes from the idea that the skier’s belongings are scattered all over the slope, resembling items for sale on a yard sale.

For instance, “He wiped out so hard that it was a complete yard sale.”
In a funny video of ski fails, someone might comment, “That was an epic yard sale.”
A friend might tease, “Nice yard sale! Did you find any good deals?”

13. Jib

To “jib” means to ride or slide on a rail or box feature in a terrain park. It involves balancing and maneuvering on the feature using the edges of the skis or snowboard.

For example, “He jibbed the rail with a smooth 50-50 grind.”
In a conversation about freestyle skiing, someone might ask, “Have you tried jibbing the new box in the park?”
A ski instructor might give tips on jibbing, saying, “Keep your weight centered and use your edges to control your speed.”

14. Stoked

Being “stoked” means feeling extremely excited or enthusiastic about something, especially skiing or snowboarding. It conveys a sense of anticipation and eagerness.

For instance, “I’m so stoked for the fresh powder tomorrow!”
In a group chat about a ski trip, someone might say, “Who else is stoked to hit the slopes this weekend?”
A ski resort advertisement might use the phrase, “Get stoked for the best skiing experience of your life!”

15. Face shot

A “face shot” refers to the experience of getting a blast of snow in the face while skiing or snowboarding. It usually happens when skiing through deep powder or when another skier or snowboarder creates a cloud of snow.

For example, “He took a tight turn and got a massive face shot.”
In a video of epic powder skiing, someone might comment, “Those face shots look incredible!”
A friend might joke, “You had so many face shots today, you must have swallowed half the mountain!”

16. Groomer

A “groomer” refers to a machine used to maintain ski slopes by flattening and smoothing the snow. It is typically equipped with a blade or tiller to create a smooth surface for skiing.

For example, “The groomer made several passes on the slope to ensure optimal skiing conditions.”
A skier might comment, “The groomer did a great job, the slopes are perfectly groomed.”
Another skier might ask, “Do you know when the groomer will be out on the mountain?”

17. Rando

The term “rando” is a shortened form of “randonee,” which refers to a type of ski touring. Ski touring involves using special bindings that allow the heel to be lifted, enabling skiers to ascend slopes and then descend on their skis.

For instance, “I’m planning a rando trip this weekend, exploring the backcountry on skis.”
A skier might ask, “Do you have any tips for rando skiing? I’m new to it.”
Another might say, “Rando skiing is a great way to get off the beaten path and discover new terrain.”

18. Bomber

In skiing slang, a “bomber” refers to a skier who goes down a slope at high speed and with a fearless, aggressive style. It is often used to describe someone who is skilled and confident in their skiing abilities.

For example, “He’s a real bomber on the slopes, always pushing the limits.”
A skier might say, “I tried to keep up with a group of bombers, but they were too fast for me.”
Another skier might comment, “That guy is a total bomber, he shreds the slopes with no fear.”

19. Piste

The term “piste” refers to a marked and groomed ski trail or slope. It is typically maintained by ski resorts to provide skiers with designated routes to follow.

For instance, “Let’s stick to the piste and avoid skiing off-piste.”
A skier might ask, “Are there any beginner-friendly pistes on this mountain?”
Another might comment, “The piste was well-groomed and perfect for carving turns.”

20. Chute

In skiing slang, a “chute” refers to a narrow and steep ski run or slope. It is often characterized by its tight, confined space and challenging terrain.

For example, “I love skiing down chutes, it’s an adrenaline rush.”
A skier might say, “That chute is too advanced for me, I’ll stick to the wider slopes.”
Another skier might comment, “Navigating a chute requires precise turns and control.”

21. Freshies

This term refers to freshly fallen snow that has not been skied on yet. “Freshies” is used to describe the ideal skiing conditions.

For example, a skier might say, “Let’s hit the slopes early to catch some freshies.”
Another might post on social media, “Just got back from an epic day on the mountain. The freshies were unbelievable!”
A ski resort might advertise, “Come experience the thrill of skiing on untouched freshies.”

22. Tele

Short for telemark skiing, a technique where the skier’s heel is not attached to the ski binding. “Tele” is used as a shorthand term for this style of skiing.

For instance, a skier might say, “I’ve been telemarking for years and love the freedom it gives me.”
A discussion about different skiing styles might include someone saying, “I’ve tried both alpine and tele skiing, and I prefer tele because of the challenge.”
A ski instructor might explain, “Telemark skiing requires a different set of skills and balance compared to traditional alpine skiing.”

23. Bump

A bump on a ski slope caused by skiers repeatedly turning in the same spot. “Bump” is a colloquial term for these uneven terrain features.

For example, a skier might say, “I enjoy the challenge of skiing moguls and navigating through the bumps.”
Another might comment, “The black diamond run was covered in moguls, making it a thrilling ride.”
A ski instructor might give tips on skiing moguls, saying, “Keep your knees flexible and absorb the impact of each bump to maintain control.”

24. Corduroy

Refers to a ski slope that has been freshly groomed, resulting in parallel lines resembling corduroy fabric. “Corduroy” is used to describe the smooth and even surface.

For instance, a skier might say, “The corduroy on the slopes this morning was perfect for carving.”
Another might post a photo on social media with the caption, “Morning runs on corduroy are the best way to start the day.”
A ski resort might advertise, “Come enjoy our perfectly groomed corduroy slopes for an exceptional skiing experience.”

25. Ripper

A term used to describe a skilled and aggressive skier who navigates difficult terrain with ease. “Ripper” is often used to refer to an expert skier.

For example, a skier might say, “That guy is a ripper. He can handle any slope with confidence.”
Another might comment, “I aspire to become a ripper one day and conquer the steepest runs.”
A ski instructor might praise a student, saying, “You’re progressing quickly. Soon, you’ll be skiing like a ripper!”

26. Backcountry

This term refers to skiing in unmarked or unpatrolled areas outside of designated ski resorts. It often involves skiing on natural terrain and can be more challenging and adventurous than skiing on groomed slopes.

For example, a skier might say, “I love exploring the backcountry and finding untouched powder.”
A guide might lead a backcountry tour and say, “Make sure you have the necessary equipment and knowledge before venturing into the backcountry.”
Someone might post a photo of a backcountry adventure with the caption, “Nothing beats the solitude and beauty of the backcountry.”

27. Slalom

Slalom is a type of ski race where skiers navigate through a series of gates placed close together. The goal is to complete the course in the fastest time possible while skiing around the gates without missing any.

For instance, a skier might say, “I’m training for the slalom race next month.”
A commentator might describe a skier’s technique during a slalom race, saying, “She’s making quick, precise turns through the gates.”
A fan of ski racing might post, “Watching the slalom race is so exciting! The athletes are incredibly skilled.”

28. Goggle tan

This term refers to the tan lines that are left on a skier’s face after wearing goggles while skiing. The goggles protect the eyes from the sun, leaving the area around the eyes and forehead paler compared to the rest of the face.

For example, someone might say, “I spent all day on the slopes and now I have a goggle tan.”
A skier might post a selfie with the caption, “Goggle tans are proof of a great day on the mountain.”
A friend might comment on a photo, saying, “Nice goggle tan! You must have had perfect weather for skiing.”

29. Snow plow

Snow plow, also known as a wedge, is a basic skiing technique used by beginners to control their speed and make turns. It involves positioning the skis in a V shape, with the tips close together and the tails apart, creating a braking effect.

For instance, a ski instructor might say, “Start by practicing the snow plow to get comfortable on the slopes.”
A beginner skier might ask, “How do I improve my snow plow technique?”
Someone might give advice to a friend, saying, “If you’re going too fast, try using the snow plow to slow down.”

30. Tree well

A tree well is a void or hollow space that forms around the base of a tree in deep snow. It can be dangerous for skiers and snowboarders as falling into a tree well can lead to entrapment and suffocation.

For example, a safety guide might warn, “Be cautious when skiing near trees and avoid tree wells.”
A skier might share a close call experience, saying, “I accidentally fell into a tree well, but luckily my friend was able to help me out.”
A snowboarder might post a PSA, saying, “Remember to always ski or ride with a buddy and stay aware of the risks, including tree wells.”