Laskettelijat

Laskettelijat are people who participate in skiing, a winter sport practiced on snow. The term is broad and includes several disciplines, such as alpine (downhill) skiing, Nordic skiing (cross-country), telemark, freestyle, and ski jumping. Regardless of discipline, laskettelijat use skis and poles and move by gliding on snow.

Equipment varies by discipline: alpine skiing typically uses longer, heavier skis with fixed-heel bindings; cross-country skiing uses lighter equipment with free heels; telemark bindings allow a deep knee bend; freestyle and ski jumping emphasize different gear and terrain. In addition to skis, boots and poles, protective clothing, helmets, and, for backcountry skiing, avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel) may be required.

Where they ski: on prepared slopes at ski resorts, on groomed cross-country tracks, or in backcountry terrain. Laskettelijat can be recreational skiers, training athletes, or competitive participants. Clubs, coaching, and organized events are common in many regions, especially in Nordic countries and the Alps.

Safety and etiquette: wearing appropriate protective gear, warming up, and adjusting to weather and snow conditions are important. On slopes, skiers share space with other users; signaling, yielding, and overtaking with care helps prevent accidents. Knowledge of avalanche risk and avalanche safety is essential for off-piste skiing.

Cultural note: In Finland and other Nordic countries, skiing is a traditional winter activity with a strong community and infrastructure, including schools, clubs, and national competitions.