What are the Best Ski Conditions?

Those new to skiing sometimes wonder what kind of weather makes for the best ski conditions. It takes more than just winter weather to make for the perfect ski environment. There are other factors that make a day favorable for skiing.

• The best temperature for skiing is somewhere between 20 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature rises to near 32 degrees Fahrenheit, snow will begin to melt. As the temperature goes down the snow refreezes and turns into compacted ice. It is better to ski on snow that has just fallen rather than icy snow.


• Ski soon after a snowfall but avoid skiing while it is snowing. Snow can accumulate on ski goggles and disrupt your vision.


• Check the wind chill temperature before you head out and avoid skiing when it is windy outside. Windy conditions make it feel colder than it actually is. It is hard to ski in the wind and skiers risk frostbite. Be aware that snow can pile up into snowdrifts, which can make for quite an obstacle.


• Do not ski in icy weather. Rain mixed with snow, also known as sleet, is a dangerous weather condition. Ski trails become icy, as do the roads it takes to travel to the ski area. 


• Check weather reports for the day to help determine if you should go skiing on a particular day. Local weather stations usually have websites that announce the ski conditions on any given day during ski season. Many ski resorts also have websites with the current ski conditions.


• Download a weather app for skiers. Many of these apps, for smart phones, alert skiers as to when the weather conditions are best for skiing.