Piste

As such, they are not classified to an independent standard; although they are likely to be roughly similar, skiers should be cautious about assuming that ratings in two different resorts are absolutely equivalent.

Shapes are often not used, sometimes all ratings are circles as being defined in the basic rules of the German Skiing Association DSV.

[4] The three basic color codes of the DSV have been integrated into the national standards DIN 32912 in Germany and ÖNORM S 4610 f in Austria.

In Scandinavia, a similar system is used with the addition of shapes, simplifying the identification of snow covered signs (see table below).

In North America, Australia and New Zealand, a color–shape rating system is used to indicate the comparative difficulty of trails (otherwise known as slopes or pistes).

Although slope gradient is the primary consideration in assigning a trail difficulty rating, other factors come into play.

Typically, a skier would be able to descend through a terrain park without necessarily negotiating any of its features, making this a possible easier way down than other options.

Some resorts, mainly those catering to foreigners, use the North American or European color-coding system, adding to the confusion.