Sierra cement
Heavy, wet, dense snow typical of California's Sierra Nevada - difficult to ski in quantity but excellent for bonding the snowpack.
Heavy, wet, dense snow typical of California's Sierra Nevada - difficult to ski in quantity but excellent for bonding the snowpack. It is a term used in snow conditions and types.
Snow conditions are one of the most important factors in the quality of a ski day. Sierra cement is a condition that experienced skiers learn to recognise and adapt to. Conditions can change rapidly with temperature, wind and time of day. Checking the daily snow report and speaking to ski patrol gives you the best information before heading out.
Recognising sierra cement is an important part of reading conditions. Snow quality changes throughout the day and season, affecting both grip and speed.
Related terms include Powder, Champagne powder and Snowpack.