Grass skiing was started in France in 1966 as a method for training for alpine skiing. Short skis that were actually rolling treads, much like those on tanks, or wheels were used. These skis were attached to the skiers boots and a grassy downhill slope was found. Depending upon the skill of the grass skier, high speeds and jumps could be navigated. This area of the sport has not been as popular as others.

Many skiers have created their own pistes as an alternative to grass ski centers or grassy mountainous regions. Moreover, aspiring alpine skiers or skiing beginners in general can try this skiing variation to learn skiing moves and techniques even before the onset of snow.

Ski All Year Round on the Grass

Whether your aim is to keep your legs toned for the winter or to find a new, exciting sport, grass skiing might be a great activity for you. While it's still making progress with technological developments, grass skiing is a great way to ski all year round.

Grass Skiing: What is It?
Grass skiing is sometimes considered summer’s equivalent to winter snow skiing. While not as popular as its cold weather counterpart, grass skiing has certainly made a name for itself and even has an international club. Generally more popular in Europe than the United States, grass skiing is a legitimate way to “extend” your ski season and technically, ski all year round.

Grass Skiing History
Grass skiing was originally developed as a training method for alpine skiing and was invented in Europe in 1966 by Richard Martin. Grass skiing is still developing, and yet it has spread around the world.

Grass Skiing Equipment
Grass skiing equipment is relatively similar to alpine skiing equipment. However, grass skis are designed to function on grass, not on snow. Wheeled grass skis can be used on a variety of terrain, but the majority of grass skis are tracked skis. Tracked grass skis are specifically designed to “slide” on grass, so they require smooth, grassy sloped. Tracked grass skis offer great speed.

Grass skiers use poles just like snow skiers. Just like helmets are a necessity for alpine skiing, helmets are used for grass skiing, too. Many grass skiers wear padding on their knees, legs, and elbows, because usually, grass is much less forgiving than snow.