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Stuff Every Snow Sports Scout Should Know: the Study Guide

Practice facts for the Snow Sports merit badge. Not an official Scouting America credential. Grab a snack: this guide is the friendly version, with the answers explained and a groan-worthy joke waiting at the end of most cards.

Knowing Snow Sports Scout saves you money, time and the occasional embarrassment.

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Chapter 1: Running

What are twin-tip skis designed to do?

Short answer: Move forwards or backwards

Twin-tip skis are built so they can move both forwards and backwards.

Groan of the day: Twin tips let you go both ways on the slope.

Sources: Skiing

What is the purpose of ski wax?

Short answer: To reduce sliding friction

Wax is applied to skis to minimize sliding friction.

Groan of the day: Wax helps your skis slide into action.

Sources: Skiing

What does a ski binding do?

Short answer: Attaches the boot to the ski

Bindings are the way ski boots attach to skis, connecting you to the ski.

Groan of the day: Bindings really hold you to your commitments.

Sources: Skiing

What do ski gloves protect?

Short answer: Your hands

Gloves are listed as skiing equipment worn to protect the hands.

Groan of the day: Gloves give you a hand in the cold.

Sources: Skiing

What does FIS stand for in skiing?

Short answer: International Ski and Snowboard Federation

The International Ski and Snowboard Federation is known as FIS and recognizes competitive events.

Groan of the day: FIS keeps ski events on track.

Sources: Skiing

The cheat sheet

The whole guide on one screen. Screenshot it, print it, stick it on the fridge.

  • The Old Norse word skíð refers to a split piece of wood or firewood.
  • Alpine and Nordic skiing differ mainly in how boots attach to skis through bindings.
  • Alpine skiing uses fixed-heel bindings that attach at both the toe and heel.
  • Nordic bindings attach at the toes but not the heels, letting heels lift.
  • Telemark bindings attach only at the toes, so the heel can rise through the turn.
  • Skins are temporarily attached to ski bottoms to give traction on snow for uphill travel.
  • Ski lifts meant skiers no longer had to climb back uphill, helping alpine skiing grow.
  • Twin-tip skis are built so they can move both forwards and backwards.
  • The source advises wearing a helmet for any snow activity.
  • The source says to wear a helmet and stay in designated areas.
  • Dressing in layers helps you avoid becoming very uncomfortable in the cold.
  • The source says at least one person should have a good first-aid kit and know how to use it.

Pop quiz

Think of your answer first, then peek.

  1. What does the word ski mean in Old Norse?
    • Split piece of wood
    • Snow runner
    • Winter board
    Show the answer

    Split piece of wood. The Old Norse word skíð refers to a split piece of wood or firewood.

  2. How should you dress for cold snow sports to stay comfortable?
    • In cotton only
    • In layers
    • In one thick coat
    Show the answer

    In layers. Dressing in layers helps you avoid becoming very uncomfortable in the cold.

  3. What does a green circle trail generally indicate?
    • An expert slope
    • A closed slope
    • A gentle slope
    Show the answer

    A gentle slope. A gentle slope is generally designated by a green circle trail.

  4. What should you learn to apply for fractures?
    • Splints
    • Bandages only
    • Ice packs only
    Show the answer

    Splints. The requirements include telling how to apply splints for fractures.

  5. What should you demonstrate with a topographic map and compass?
    • Only drawing on them
    • Proper use
    • Only folding them
    Show the answer

    Proper use. The requirements ask you to demonstrate proper use of a topographic map and compass.

Now make it stick

Read a chapter, then play the deck and see how much stuck.

This guide covers the 50 free cards. The other 50 are in the game for members.

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