Are Snowfeet and Skiskates Allowed? | Are Skiskates Banned?

Snowfeet and Skiskates are compact alternatives to traditional skis. They are taking the slopes by storm, but many people wonder: Are Snowfeet and Skiskates allowed at ski resorts? If you’ve been curious about whether you can hit the slopes with these mini marvels, you’ve come to the right place. 

What Are Snowfeet and Skiskates?

First, let’s get a clear picture of what these devices are all about. Snowfeet are essentially mini skates designed for the snow. They strap onto your winter boots and allow you to glide down hills, skate on snowy trails, or tackle snowparks. If you do hit a snowpark with them, you might want to opt for snowboard boots, just to keep your ankles secure. Picture a combination of skiing and skating, with the freedom of movement that regular skis might not provide. It’s a fresh take on winter sports, allowing for quick maneuvers, tricks, and a totally new way to experience the snow.

Then we have Skiskates, which are mini skis designed for downhill skiing or snowpark tricks. They come in two versions: one for ski boots and another for snowboard boots. These are a bit sturdier than Snowfeet, giving them more grip for those steeper downhill runs. Essentially, both Snowfeet and Skiskates offer a blend of skiing, snowboarding, and skating, and can be used for various kinds of snow terrain.

But what’s the deal with taking these to ski resorts? Will you be stopped at the lift or turned away at the ticket counter? Let’s clear that up.

Are Snowfeet and Skiskates Allowed at Ski Resorts?

The short answer? Yes, most ski resorts in Europe and the U.S. allow Snowfeet and Skiskates. However, as with anything new and unusual, it’s not a bad idea to check with the specific resort you plan on visiting beforehand. While Snowfeet and Skiskates are gaining popularity, not all resorts are fully familiar with them yet.

In general, most resorts are concerned with safety. The good news is that both Snowfeet and Skiskates have metal edges, similar to traditional skis and snowboards, which is often a requirement at resorts. Metal edges allow you to grip the snow and control your speed, which is the main safety feature resorts look for.

But the list of safety features does not end here. Both Skiskates and Snowfeet have sturdy and safety bindings that allow firm hold on your boots, so you are in complete control of your skis. Additionally, Snowfeet have a heel brake that allow you to slow down. 

That said, some resorts might have specific policies or ask you to get approval from lift operators before using them. It’s not common to be turned away, though. From our experience, as long as you’re respectful, polite, and wearing your safety gear, you’re unlikely to run into any issues. Many people have successfully used Snowfeet and Skiskates at resorts without a hitch!

Why Would a Resort Say No?

You might be wondering, Why would any resort say no to Snowfeet or Skiskates? The answer usually comes down to one word: safety.

Ski resorts have an obligation to ensure that all equipment used on their slopes is safe for the user and other skiers. Since Snowfeet and Skiskates are relatively new to the scene, some resorts may hesitate because they’re not yet familiar with how these mini skis handle in different conditions.

However, this concern is largely based on myth rather than fact. Snowfeet and Skiskates, despite their compact size, are designed with safety in mind. Let’s take a moment to bust some of the common myths surrounding these pieces of gear.

Myth Busting: Why Snowfeet and Skiskates Are Not Dangerous

Myth #1: Shorter Skis Are Harder to Control

One of the main concerns people have is that because Snowfeet and Skiskates are shorter than traditional skis, they might be harder to control. In reality, the opposite is true! Because they’re shorter, they’re far more agile and easier to maneuver, especially for beginners or those looking to navigate crowded slopes.

With their smaller size, you can make quick, sharp turns with ease. They’re also easier to stop than long skis, making them perfect for more crowded runs where quick reflexes are needed. If anything, their compact design gives you more control, not less.

Myth #2: Snowfeet and Skiskates Are Too Fast

Some people assume that shorter skis mean less control at higher speeds. This simply isn’t the case. While Snowfeet and Skiskates allow for plenty of speed, they’re not as fast as longer skis, meaning you’re less likely to hit the breakneck speeds that can sometimes lead to accidents. The key difference here is that they’re designed for agility and fun, not for bombing down black diamond runs at top speeds.

Also, they come with built-in heel brakes, which makes it super easy to control your speed on the fly. Think of it like the brakes on a pair of inline skates – whenever you feel like slowing down, you can do so with just a shift of your weight.

Myth #3: They Don’t Have the Same Safety Features as Regular Skis

This is a big one. People often assume that because Snowfeet and Skiskates are smaller, they must be less safe. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Both types of gear come equipped with safety features similar to traditional skis.

Skiskates are such short skis that only their length prevents injuries that could happen if your long skis were to get caught in the snow during a fall. Snowfeet  strap securely onto your boots, and because you have better control over your movements with these mini skis, the likelihood of falling is reduced.

Another factor in their safety is the fact that they don’t take up as much space on the slopes. Longer skis have a wider turning radius, meaning you need more room to stop or slow down. With Snowfeet and Skiskates, you can navigate tight spaces with ease, which can reduce the risk of collision with other skiers.

Tips for a Safe, Fun Experience on the Slopes

If you’re ready to try out Snowfeet or Skiskates at a ski resort, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure you have the best experience possible:

Use the Right Boots

If you’re using Snowfeet, opt for snowboard boots. They offer more stability and control than regular winter boots, especially on steeper slopes.

Always Wear a Helmet

Safety first! Regardless of whether you’re using Snowfeet, Skiskates, or regular skis, a helmet is non-negotiable.

Respect the Lift Operators and Other Skiers

Not everyone on the slopes will be familiar with Snowfeet or Skiskates. Be patient and respectful, especially when interacting with lift operators or other skiers.

Stay in Your Comfort Zone

Choose slopes and areas that match your skill level. If you’re new to Snowfeet or Skiskates, start with gentler runs until you’re comfortable with their handling.

Ready to Hit the Slopes?

So, are Snowfeet and Skiskates allowed at ski resorts? In most cases, yes! These innovative pieces of gear offer a fun, fresh alternative to traditional skiing and snowboarding. They’re agile, easy to control, and—most importantly—safe to use.

If you’re planning to give them a try, don’t let the myths about their safety hold you back. Snowfeet and Skiskates are designed with your safety in mind and offer a new way to enjoy the slopes without the intimidating size and speed of long skis.

So go ahead—grab your Snowfeet, strap in your Skiskates, and hit the slopes with confidence. You’re in for a great ride!