Snow+Rock Research - Enthusiasts Reveal Why They Are Desperate To Hit The Slopes

The latest restrictions on travel come as a blow to skiers and snowboarders, as a new study reveals they were pinning their hopes on a winter getaway, having missed the positive impact on their mental and physical health.

The benefits of being in nature, physical activity, and the chance to go completely off-grid have a hugely positive impact on wellbeing, which is why 38 percent cited the benefits of snowsports on their mental health as one of the key things they have missed due to the ski season continuing to be impacted by Covid.

• Snowsports fans seek solace in the mountains
• 38 percent cited the benefits of snowsports on their mental health as one of the key things they have missed
• The mountain views, benefits to mental health, and the feeling of being alive on the slopes top the moments they have pined for
• 81 percent of respondents have missed the mountains more than a summer holiday
• 94 percent say the pandemic has made them appreciate a winter sports holiday more

Leading snowsports specialist, Snow+Rock, has revealed the finding of its annual British Snowsports Poll – an independent survey of over 2000 British snowsports enthusiasts - to uncover what they have missed about taking to the slopes as we approach another disrupted season. 

Said Jose Finch, Managing Director of Snow+Rock: "We know that snowsports enthusiasts have pined for the positive impact of being on the slopes and that the current uncertainty is concerning, especially now that restrictions and cancellations are starting to impact holidays. We are all united by the desire to get back out there. 

“As enthusiasts ourselves, we understand there are so many benefits of a visit to the slopes. Being in nature, spending time in the alpine air, and getting away from the daily grind all provide an unbeatable feeling and we hope that there is still the chance to travel this season. This survey highlights that there are plenty of experiences whilst on the snow that you can’t get anywhere else. It really is a tonic for the soul and we’re hoping any disruptions will be short lived.” 

MOMENTS MISSED AND MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS

Brits are passionate about powder. Snow+Rock asked participants to rate the moments that they have missed the most since their last trip to the slopes.  

• Topping the poll was the stunning mountain views (42 percent), which reflects how much as a nation we have appreciated being in nature more than ever before over the past twelve months. 
• The positive impact on mental health and wellbeing coming a close second (38 percent), followed by the feeling of being alive when out on the slopes (35 percent). 
• With so many moments missed, 94% of people said the pandemic has made them appreciate a winter sports holiday so much more and 93% polled are keen to find solace in the mountains again when they can. 

DECIDING FACTORS

When it comes to why Britons would choose their winter holiday destinations, a resounding 36 percent felt a strong chance of good snow was paramount, while 33 percent opted for a good choice of runs. 

• A sociable 59 percent said a good choice of restaurants and a lively après ski scene was vital to a good snow break. 
• Following a missed season, snowsports enthusiasts want to make up for lost time when they can. Four in ten of those polled said they planned to stay longer than usual, while 32 percent plan to return to the slopes with their closest friends. 
• 71 percent also said that hybrid working would enable them to stay longer on their winter holiday than they normally would, but despite large numbers of bookings, more than half of people say they are concerned about restrictions at resorts and the impact of the pandemic on travel arrangements.

SUN VS SNOW

Brits who enjoy winter sports appreciate that it provides an opportunity for pure escapism, to completely switch off from the day-to-day. 

• In fact, as many as 81 percent claim they have missed skiing or snowboarding more than summer holidays in the sun. 
• Overall, 91 percent insist snowsports holidays bring you closer to your family and your other half, with 54 percent claiming that participating in activities together is more bonding than lying on a beach. 
• A further 39 percent said on a ski holiday there is so much to talk about in the evening while 21 percent thought a winter holiday created a convivial “tribal” mentality. 

TAKING TO THE SLOPES

• And when it comes to taking to the slopes, 38 percent say that have missed the chance to push themselves out of their comfort zone, whilst a fifth said cruising down a scenic run and racing family and friends to the bottom are long overdue. 
• It seems you can’t go to a winter sports destination without a snowball fight either with this activity being more missed than après ski (19%), nailing a new trick (14%) or attempting a jump (15%). 

MAKING UP FOR LOST TIME

• Following a missed season, snowsports enthusiasts want to make up for lost time when they can. Four in ten of those polled said they planned to stay longer than usual, while 32 percent plan to return to the slopes with their closest friends. 
• When it comes to snowsports wear, 30 percent plan to treat themselves to brand-new gear.
• New jackets (41 percent), gloves (40 percent), goggles (32 percent) and skis (23 percent) are among the items skiers plan to purchase before embarking on their winter break. 

Mr Finch says: “We know there are still some unknowns about the season ahead, so have been offering customers extended returns on snowsports jackets and pants in-store and will continue to do so until the end of April to offer peace-of-mind wherever winter takes them.”