Those who prefer the exhilaration of ski slopes over programmed images on a television screen can play real-time games and feel the wind on their face. Skiing styles have evolved just as ski equipment has evolved. But with these changes, traditional downhill skiing still remains. Contests that test your precision on snow skis may be a purist's concept of online games. Racing to a finish line has always been part of enthusiastic competitions.
Equipment
Skiers have the choice of using snowboards or skis for downhill games. Adjusting bindings and waxing snowboards is part of the social aspect of snow skiing, and this holds true with competitive games and friendly contests. Snow pack and weather conditions determine if powder jackets or parkas are best. Gloves and goggles are optional.
Slalom
By definition, Slalom is a downhill race over a winding course that is defined by upright poles. Simple discount-store plastic poles with orange flags make suitable markers. A friendly wager to see who picks up the dinner tab has been known to bring out the competitive animal in some. Timing each run through the slalom course takes the guesswork out of the final result. Skill and precision are needed to make tight turns around slalom poles without catching a ski tip or flattening the pole.
Freestyle
Any number of games can be devised for freestyle events. The idea is to select courses or obstacles that promote creative expression with a minimum of risk to the players. Downhill games that include catching air or doing 180's are fun to watch and even more exiting for the participants. Freestyle games on downhill slopes may very well have been the genesis of popular snowboarding and skiing tricks.
Races
Possibly the most anticipated events in Alpine skiing are the men's and women's downhill races. Pushing yourself and your equipment to the limit can be exciting for amateurs and advanced skiers. Racing in pairs adds more fun to the game and encourages a slower skier to develop speed techniques. Some consider downhill ski racing and the fastest non-motorized racing there is.
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