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What is off-piste skiing?
Off-piste simply means skiing off marked trails. You don’t have to be deep in the backcountry; even skiing at the edge of a run counts. In North America, off-piste is either in-bounds (patrolled areas) or out-of-bounds (outside the resort). In Europe, ski patrol only monitors areas near marked runs or infrastructure, so beyond the ropes, safety is your responsibility.
This guide covers what you need to know to start off-piste skiing safely and confidently.
Off-piste safety
Avalanche Awareness
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Off-piste safety
Essential safety equipment
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Off-piste safety
Reading the Terrain
Identify terrain traps and safe regrouping spots.
Observe what’s above and below your line.
Learn snow indicators: sastrugi, suncups, surface hoar, and inconsistencies that may hide hazards.
Build a mental library of terrain and snow patterns.
Ski one at a time while keeping line of sight with your group.
Off-piste skiing technique
Off-piste skiing isn’t just about powder. Conditions vary from soft snow to crust and slush. Start by mastering your on-piste fundamentals; the core techniques remain the same. Make small adjustments for changing snow, like using a well-timed pole plant to maintain balance, rhythm, and turn timing.
Off-piste equipment
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Final thoughts
Off-piste skiing is thrilling but comes with real risks. Prioritise safety, awareness, and preparation, and build your skills gradually. Respect the terrain, check conditions, carry the right equipment, and never ski beyond your limits. With the right approach, off-piste skiing can be both exciting and safe.
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