{"id":4170,"date":"2020-02-04T10:22:09","date_gmt":"2020-02-04T10:22:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.alps2alps.com\/?p=4170"},"modified":"2025-02-24T14:29:48","modified_gmt":"2025-02-24T14:29:48","slug":"how-ski-red-runs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.alps2alps.com\/blog\/how-ski-red-runs","title":{"rendered":"How to Ski Red Runs: Intermediate Skiers\u2019 Guide to the Alps"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There\u2019s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes with mastering a new ski slope or skiing technique. Good skiing takes time, practice and patience but the results are well worth it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re progressing from beginner to intermediate skier and are looking for tips on how to ski red runs<\/strong>, we can help. From how to control your speed to the best ski areas to practice in, read our advice to kickstart your journey towards steeper slopes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


What are the Ski Run Colours?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n


Before we get stuck into learning to ski red runs, let\u2019s make sure we\u2019re all on the same page when it comes to ski run colours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s an overview of what the colour classifications mean;<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Green Runs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


A green route is a beginner or practice slope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suitable for: Beginners<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Blue Runs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


Blue slopes are gentle, with a gradient of less than 25%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suitable for: Most skiers, including confident beginners<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Red Runs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


Red slopes can be steeper and\/or narrower than blues. They are groomed and do not exceed 40% gradient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suitable for: Intermediate\/ advanced skiers<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Black Runs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


Black runs can mean slightly different things in different places. On the whole, a black run usually has a gradient that exceeds 40% and can include more challenging terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suitable for: Advanced skiers<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s worth noting that ski slope safety ratings<\/a> differ in North America, where the \u2018red\u2019 classification is often replaced with black diamond and double black diamond. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


What is a Red Run?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n


As we touched on above, a red run is usually steeper and narrower than a blue. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While red runs are groomed, they might include bumpy, more challenging terrain than a gentle blue slope. Some parts of the run may be easier than others so don\u2019t be lulled into a false sense of security if the start of the run feels too easy! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Red runs can be found throughout Europe and are commonly marked with a red circle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


How Steep Are Red Runs?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


Red runs commonly have a gradient of between 30% – 45%. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


What\u2019s the Difference Between a Blue and Red Run?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


While a blue run has a gradient of between 20% and 30%, red runs are much steeper at 30% +. Blues also have consistent, gentle terrain unlike reds which could feature some moguls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


What\u2019s the Difference Between a Red and Black Run?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n


Blacks can have a much steeper gradient of 45%+ and can be pretty scary for everyone but the experts. As the most difficult slope rating, blacks feature extreme terrain and hazards such as trees or very narrow parts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


Who Can Ski Red Runs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n


Red runs are suitable for skiers of intermediate ability. This means skiers who have a few years of experience and\/or are confident linking their parallel turns and controlling their speed on all types of terrain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re not sure, spend some time skiing blue runs<\/a> to ensure you are completely comfortable on this type of slope before progressing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t attempt a red run if;<\/p>\n\n\n\n