People get anxious on dry slopes and honestly, there's  no need to worry.

 

It is clear that there is a difference between Dendix (dry-slope material) and snow, but we're going to clear that up for you.

 

Let's start with the basics - material. Most ski slopes (in the U.K), use Dendix which is a bristled plastic mat - more friction going on so you have to accentuate your movements.

 

Dendix will feel different to snow, but all the manoeuvres you make when skiing/boarding are exactly the same as you'd make on snow.​

 

 

As a dry material, Dendix is slower, but many slopes use a misting to coat the material with water in order to lubricate the slope. This really does help, especially in the Summer months. When it's raining, many people don't want to go ahead with their sessions, but in reality, these are the best conditions to learn in on a dry slope! So don't be afraid of a bit of rain - bring waterproofs or a spare pair of clothes to change into afterwards.​

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A dry slope may wear down skis and snowboards quicker than snow in certain conditions. If you want to protect your equipment, it's best to hire the facilities ski equipment. At Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre, ski hire is included in the price you pay.

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A dry slope is great for learning the basics, especially living in the U.K. It allows for all-year round training and learning and really does prepare you for the mountain.