Virtual Snow Los Angeles Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Virtual Snow the same as skiing or snowboarding on snow?

A. No. Its harder to ride the simulator than it is on real snow. However, your best training surface is the least forgiving one. When you make a mistake you know it instantly and you also know the conditions of the carpet didn't change!

Q. Is it only for beginners?

A. No. Many world champions have trained on a simulator including Suzi "Chapstick" Chaffee and the Olympic Gold Medalist, Jonny Moseley who trained on one for five years.

Q. Who trains at Virtual Snow?

A. If you can walk, we can train you. We train lots of kids (especially at our day camps and ski parties) and have had kids as young as five train successfully! We train beginners, intermediates, experts and people recovering from injuries.

Q. How quickly can I learn?

A. A person starts learning on the first lesson. But in six one hour sessions an average person gains the skills and muscle memory of the average intermediate skier or boarder.

Q. Isn't boarding easier than skiing?

A. Learning to board is much harder and more dangerous. Boarders have 5 times more injuries and they are twice as serious (usually broken wrists) as ski injuries.

Q. Can I learn tricks at Virtual Snow?

A. Yes, the simulator is the safest place to practice what you haven't mastered.

Q. What equipment do I bring?

A. Bring your boots if you have them. If not, we have everything you will need. Also wear light workout clothes and a smile on your face. We like to have fun!

Q. Is it a workout?

A. Yes, don't do a leg workout before you come. A session here is like an all-day private lesson on snow.

Q. Why not just take lessons on the mountain?

A. Training in a controlled environment, you will learn the skills and muscle memory without all the time, trouble, travel and costs associated with a trip to the mountain. After your training at Virtual Snow and when you take lessons on the mountain, you'll understand your instructor's commands and you'll be in shape to DO your sport.

Q. How much does it cost?

A. The average package costs less than a pair of skis. Prices vary from season to season and depends on your individual needs. The introductory session costs from $80 to $160. You get your money's worth.