If it’s your first time skiing, you will likely experience excitement and some nerves before you get on the slopes. This is very common. Every skier that confidently glides effortlessly down the spectacularly beautiful slopes of the Alps has experienced that feeling of uncertainty and concern about learning to ski. From what kind of equipment to use to how to properly use the ski lift to what slope to choose for beginners to the proper mountain etiquette. Skiing for the first time is easy because there are many qualified instructors at all beginner ski schools in the Alpine region of Morzine, France.
Unlike many of the large, fast-paced or extreme ski resorts, Morzine has a “laid back” feel to the whole town and ski area. This is a “real” village town and you will meet “real” residents and workers there, as opposed to just playing in the mountains. The ski schools are friendly and very patient with new skiers; there are many areas of slope that are “gentle”, where new skiers can learn to ski in a less-than-intimidating way.
There are some simple things that you can do to make your first trip to Morzine easier, and many of these are very practical and basic:
Table of Contents
Start with the Basics before You Even Get on the Snow
Many beginners concern themselves with unimportant things, such as whether they will fall while skiing (you will) and if they will impede other skiers (you won’t). The actual secret to becoming comfortable skiing is to learn to be comfortable with the little details about skiing.
Know your gear.
Once you arrive in Morzine, they have numerous ski rental shops there to help pick your gear out, and you will probably notice the ski boot’s will feel snug on your feet when they are first tried. This is perfectly normal. The skis may look long, and that too will be normal. Once you feel comfortable in your ski boots, walk around in them for a short time in order to familiarize yourself with how heavy they feel and do not hesitate to ask the staff at the ski rental shop for any alterations you may need to make to your ski boots before putting on your skis for the first time.
Dress in many layers.
The climate on the mountain can change quickly, from a sunny morning to an afternoon blizzard, and you should stay comfortable without overheating.
Don’t forget your gloves, goggles, and helmet.
Not accessories, but essentials for first-timers.
A few minutes taken to understand your gear makes the whole experience smoother.
Choose the Right Slopes — Morzine Has Plenty for Beginners
First-time skiers especially love Morzine for its range of easy slopes. You’re not thrown straight into anything scary. The beginner areas are wide, calm, and designed for gaining confidence.
If you’re nervous, start off with the easiest terrain-the “green” slopes. Morzine has several of those, perfect for practicing turns, balance, and slowing without fear.
Parents who come with children will also appreciate the family-friendliness of these areas. You will find quiet zones, ski carpets, and instructors who make learning fun rather than stressful.
Take a Ski Lesson — Even One Makes a Huge Difference
The reason many novices skip lessons is because they imagine that skiing is just “sliding downhill.” A single lesson with an instructor here at Morzine will save you hours of frustration.
A good instructor will teach you:
- How to stop safely
- How to Turn without Losing Balance
- How to Use the Lifts
- How to get up after falling
- How to control speed
All the things you don’t want to figure out the hard way.
The ski schools in Morzine are friendly and patient. They take care of nervous beginners every day, so they really know how to help you feel at ease, laugh, and enjoy the process.
Understand how the ski lifts work-this alone relieves 50% of stress for any beginner.
One of the things that confuse new skiers is the lifts, not the skiing itself.
Don’t worry; When you travel to Morzine, you are going to find that the lifts in this area are some of the easiest in the area.
Two easy tips:
1. Watch others first.
Standing in the queue, watching how people get on and off the lift, can actually help a lot more than you think.
2. Don’t rush.
Lift attendants in Morzine are helpful. They know when someone’s new and they will guide you.
It only takes a few rides before the lift becomes the least stressful part of the day.
Expect to Fall — The Snow Is Softer Than You Think
No beginner likes falling, but it’s something that happens to everyone. The trick is accepting it early on. Many skiers fall over whilst skiing at Morzine, regardless of their level of experience as a skier; however, just because you fell today does not mean that you have failed as a skier, but rather, it is all part of the learning experience.
A few small tips:
- Keep your arms in a safe position
- Don’t try to brace with your wrists
- Relax when you fall (tensing up hurts more)
- Laugh about it — it’s making everything easier.
Morzine has soft, well-maintained slopes that help beginners get up and try again with no fear.
Take breaks – it is much more physically demanding than it looks!
Skiing uses all of your legs’ muscles. However, your core, balance, and co-orindation will also be challenged. It will also offer many cafes and huts located in the mountains of Morzine for you to have a chance to warm up and recharge on your day of skiing.
Taking a break for hot chocolate at midday is not being lazy, but the smart move!
Enjoy Morzine Off the Slopes Too
Skiing maybe the main reason you visit Morzine but you will also have had the opportunity to spend time visiting this beautiful town which still maintains the traditional wooden Alpine style. There are many shops, restaurants and cafes that offer a place to relax after spending the day. Many new skiers will remember the evenings they have spent in Morzine as their favourite part of the experience, the tranquillity of the alleyways, the candle-lit glow of the restaurants and the stories of people’s skiing adventures on their first day of skiing are amazing.
Those new to skiing will find that Morzine combines adventure with an opportunity to relax.
Final Thoughts
The beginning of your skiing career can be made easier by being in an area with a friendly atmosphere, a lot of support from the people around you and most importantly, having a positive outlook as you learn.
Take your time. Smile through the falls. Admire the views. And let Morzine Village be the place where you discover that skiing at your own pace is fun.
