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Skiing & snowboarding
12 types of skiers you’ll meet on Sölden’s ski slopes
A ski area is similar to an entire biotope. The “habitat” of skiers, riders and snowboarders is populated by the most varied winter sport species. After a splendid journey of discovery through the Sölden Ski Area we proudly present you the huge variety of ski types (not always meant seriously) we met on Sölden’s ski mountains. Which type are YOU?
1. THE „SKI-MINIONS“
What they say: “Pizza, French fries, ketchup!!!”
That’s how you recognize them: The “Ski Minions” are always in a herd, guided by an alpha leader – just like in nature. Often they are accompanied and protected by parents or ski instructors, sometimes they are on a ski-lead. What’s unique, their cuteness level is around 5000!
2. THE „DRESS-TO-IMPRESS“-TYP
What he says: Strongly depends on the fancy dress – ranging from strange (animal) sounds or cool sayings like “May the night be with you”.
That’s how you recognize him: The “Dress-to-Impress” type wants to attract a maximum of attention, therefore you’ll recognize him at first sight.
3. THE „ULTIMATIVE GOPRO-PRO“
What he says: “Sorry, can you please tell me if the red light on my GoPro helmet cam is blinking?”
That’s how you recognize him: Half human, half machine. No, the ultimate “GoPro Pro” hasn’t a divining rod in his hand but in the best of all cases two GoPro sticks to cover all angles perfectly. Further cameras attached to all parts of the body and equipment are absolutely essential to him.
4. THE „PARK KIDS“
What he says: “Sorry, can you please tell me if the red light on my GoPro helmet cam is blinking?”
That’s how you recognize him: Half human, half machine. No, the ultimate “GoPro Pro” hasn’t a divining rod in his hand but in the best of all cases two GoPro sticks to cover all angles perfectly. Further cameras attached to all parts of the body and equipment are absolutely essential to him.
5. THE „BETTER-BE-SAFE“-TYP
What he says: “Better safe than sorry!”
That’s how you recognize him: Simply watch out for a reflective west, very often coupled with a warning message. He keeps a maximum of distance and can be found far away from all other winter sport fans on the ski slope.
6. THE „80'S GUY“
What he says: “Since 1984 the ski area has really changed considerably.”
That’s how you recognize him: Looks quite radical in his neon-colored ski overall and doesn’t even think about giving his ski equipment to the used clothes collection. There is one thing for sure: all fashion trends come back around!
7. THE „EXTREME-CARVER“
What he says: “Pretty aggressive snow today – but, of course, I am even more aggressive!”
That’s how you recognize him: Wildly waving his arms around to make clear that other skiers are crossing his personal carving line. (check out: Carving Masters)
8. THE „SELFIE-HUNTER“
What he says: “The powder stashes can wait but my social media friends can’t #skiselfie.”
That’s how you recognize him: The “Selfie Hunter” is a typical show-off guy who wants to demonstrate his excellent skiing skills – at least when it comes to his favorite social media channels.
9. THE „STORYTELLER“
What he says: “So let’s start right at the beginning…(…)…(…)…”
That’s how you recognize him: The “Storyteller” loves to chat and make new friends, no matter if you are interested or not. It can happen that you are trapped in a chair lift with him…
10. THE „SUN WORSHIPPERS“
What they say: “It’s not sunburn, it’s just a perfect tan.”
That’s how you recognize them: The classic “Sun Worshipper” is chasing the sun, looking for the next deckchair all day long. You won’t meet him in the ski area on cold or stormy days – he leaves the hotel only in bright sunshine, heading towards the huge lounge chairs on a ski hut’s sunny terrace.
11. THE „TELEMARKER“
What they say: “It’s not sunburn, it’s just a perfect tan.”
That’s how you recognize them: The classic “Sun Worshipper” is chasing the sun, looking for the next deckchair all day long. You won’t meet him in the ski area on cold or stormy days – he leaves the hotel only in bright sunshine, heading towards the huge lounge chairs on a ski hut’s sunny terrace.
12. THE „SKI BUNNY“
What she says: “See you later, guys”
That’s how you recognize them: The “Skihaserl” looks like she just came from the cosmetics aisle at the supermarket. But don’t let appearances fool you—the “Skihaserl” tears down the slopes, true to the motto: “No boyfriends on powder days”
This article was originally published in February 2017 and was updated on May 28, 2026.
Author
Benedikt Steiner
When it comes to activity and motion, Benni pricks up his ears! He is a passionate snowboarder, mountain biker, climber & hiker and he knows no better playground for outdoor sports than the Ötztal. He is not the type to sit still - therefore Benni can be often found on the valley's most exciting bike trails and pristine powder snow slopes.