I've always been somewhat confused about ski ability levels. So in the event that some of you feel the same way, here's an explanation I found at EpicSki (actually, it was posted by our own Snowhot. So thanks, Snowhot!):
*An important point to remember: Men are really 1-2 levels lower than they claim, and women are really 1-2 levels higher than they claim.*
Level One
Never skied before
Level Two
Can stop on green runs using the wedge or "snowplow". May be able to make some direction change but linked turns are yet to come.
Level Three
Can stop and link wedge turns on green runs comfortably.
Level Four
You are relying more on turn shape than wedge size to slow you down. Your wedge is getting smaller and by the end of the turn your skis are running parallel. This level represents a major milestone. Mastery of level four concepts prepare the student for the transition from green runs to blue ones!
Level Five
You are using similar wedge-match turning mechanics to the level four skier. The primary difference is that you are able to use the technique comfortably on blue runs.
Level Six
Your wedge (or stem) is mostly gone and you are making open parallel turns on blue runs.
Level Seven
You are able to change turn radius and duration comfortably on blue runs. Pole plants are being used to time turns. Blue-black and black diamond runs are starting to look skiable.
Level Eight
You are comfortable on blue-black terrain. You can ski in the fall line on easier moguls.
Level Nine
You can ski black diamond bumps, steeps and varied snow conditions comfortably.
*An important point to remember: Men are really 1-2 levels lower than they claim, and women are really 1-2 levels higher than they claim.*
Level One
Never skied before
Level Two
Can stop on green runs using the wedge or "snowplow". May be able to make some direction change but linked turns are yet to come.
Level Three
Can stop and link wedge turns on green runs comfortably.
Level Four
You are relying more on turn shape than wedge size to slow you down. Your wedge is getting smaller and by the end of the turn your skis are running parallel. This level represents a major milestone. Mastery of level four concepts prepare the student for the transition from green runs to blue ones!
Level Five
You are using similar wedge-match turning mechanics to the level four skier. The primary difference is that you are able to use the technique comfortably on blue runs.
Level Six
Your wedge (or stem) is mostly gone and you are making open parallel turns on blue runs.
Level Seven
You are able to change turn radius and duration comfortably on blue runs. Pole plants are being used to time turns. Blue-black and black diamond runs are starting to look skiable.
Level Eight
You are comfortable on blue-black terrain. You can ski in the fall line on easier moguls.
Level Nine
You can ski black diamond bumps, steeps and varied snow conditions comfortably.
