Teenagers on the slopes: what should you choose between skiing and snowboarding?
Published on 15/12/2025 - Written by Coline
Are you planning to take your teenager to the heights of Val Thorens for your next winter holiday? The question is: which winter sports activity should he or she choose?
Between skiing and snowboarding, it can be difficult for them to find the discipline that suits them best. A unique and sensational experience on the board, more instinctive learning and versatility of terrain on skis... Each sport has its advantages.
Here's some advice to help your young athlete make the right choice!
Skiing: a versatile activity that's perfect for discovering the joys of the slopes
Skiing is a stimulating and exhilarating activity for all ages. Youngsters who are new to board sports will also enjoy taking up this discipline. Beginners will have less trouble keeping their balance on a pair of skis than on a snowboard, making their first steps on the snow much easier.
However, if your teenager is no longer a novice and has already taken lessons, skiing remains an interesting option because of its versatility. In Val Thorens, there are many kilometres of pistes waiting to be explored by skiing enthusiasts of all ages, as well as a wide variety of terrain.
However, if your teenager is no longer a novice and has already taken lessons, skiing remains an interesting option because of its versatility. In Val Thorens, there are many kilometres of pistes waiting to be explored by skiing enthusiasts of all ages, as well as a wide variety of terrain.
If you've enjoyed discovering downhill skiing, you can vary the pleasures by trying off-piste skiing, freestyle skiing, ski touring or even freeride!
Skiing: a versatile activity!Teenagers looking for a thrill? Choose snowboarding
Snowboarding is becoming increasingly popular with young holidaymakers. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a newcomer to the sport, snowboarding offers a whole new range of sensations.
While learning to snowboard requires more work at the beginning, progress is generally quicker. Your teenager will enjoy seeing how he or she develops over the days, or even hours, spent on the board. Once they've mastered the balance and basic movements, they'll soon be able to enjoy a magical feeling of freedom on their first descents.
With its fluid movements and light displacements, snowboarding - on groomed slopes, but even more so on powder - offers a unique, transcendent experience that will delight even the most adventurous young riders.
While learning to snowboard requires more work at the beginning, progress is generally quicker. Your teenager will enjoy seeing how he or she develops over the days, or even hours, spent on the board. Once they've mastered the balance and basic movements, they'll soon be able to enjoy a magical feeling of freedom on their first descents.
With its fluid movements and light displacements, snowboarding - on groomed slopes, but even more so on powder - offers a unique, transcendent experience that will delight even the most adventurous young riders.
Teenage classes to suit every taste in Val Thorens
Whether they choose to ski or snowboard, teenagers are sure to make the right choice for their next holiday in the 3 Vallées. Choosing the right snow sport depends above all on the desires and personalities of the young athletes. So to cater perfectly for everyone's preferences, we offer a wide range of teenage lessons in Val Thorens.
From snowboarding and downhill skiing lessons for all levels, to competition courses to challenge yourself on the slopes, or discovery of freeride and freestyle skiing with the Team Rider course, there's something for everyone in the resort.
From snowboarding and downhill skiing lessons for all levels, to competition courses to challenge yourself on the slopes, or discovery of freeride and freestyle skiing with the Team Rider course, there's something for everyone in the resort.
Our experienced instructors will take the time to guide each teenager to a memorable experience in the heights, whatever discipline they're interested in!
A snowboarding course for young people!