Powder

Fresh, dry, light and uncompacted snow - the most sought-after condition in skiing.

Powder forms when light, cold snow falls on still days and is left undisturbed. It's skied with a wider, more floaty ski and a slightly more centred stance than groomed runs.

The best powder is light and deep - Utah's 'greatest snow on earth' and Japan's famous 'japow' are prized for the combination of low density and high volume.