An Introduction to What Is Jib Skiing (The Lingo)
by Frank V. Persall
Jib skiing is the act of skiing or snowboarding on any other surface but the piste.
Typically this refers to things like rails, boxes, and even fallen logs. When doing this type of skiing, you are ‘jibbing’ and those who take part are known as ‘jibbers.’
When you get into the world of skiing, one of the first things you will notice is that there is a lot of lingo to get used to. One such type of lingo refers to the different ways that you can ski.
While most people are familiar with traditional skiing, jib skiing takes things to an entirely new level.
But there is much more to jibbing skiing than one might first imagine. If you’re keen to get in on the action, you’re in the right place.
We are going to give you a rundown on the type of equipment you’ll need and what to expect.
What Is A Jib?
So, if jib skiing refers to non-piste terrain, where does this term come from?
Well, a jib is a surface used for skiing on, and these are usually installed in terrain parks at ski resorts.
While there are also opportunities to jib ski on natural items, jibbers normally head to the ski resort to make the most of the equipment there.
These are some of the most common types of jib:
- Rail – these are made from metal and feature a flat or rounded surface.
- Tabletop – this is a wide metal surface that is popular with beginner jibbers since their width means that falling off is less likely.
- Trees – fallen trees are natural jibbing surfaces that are found both on and off ski trails
- Box – the box is slightly wider than a rail and often confused with this. However, rather than being metal, their surface is made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene.
- Wallride – these surfaces are almost vertical that usually have an angled surface near the peak.
- Mailbox – metal pipes form the diameter of this surface and a mail box-like cross-section completes the piece.
- Park bench and picnic table – this is a type of funbox that mimics a picnic table and park bench that allows for various surfaces to ski on.
- Rainbow – these boxes and rails have a slightly curved hump.
- Kink – these boxes and rails have kinks which are sudden changes in the angle of the surface.
- Pole jam – this is a type of rail which is inserted into a jump at an angle.
- Barrel – these are among the newest jibs seen in terrain parks and are shaped like a barrel or cylinder. Typically, they are used after a jump and allow the skier to twist or turn.
- Tap feature – these features are dotted around the terrain park and rather than being skied over, they are meant to be tapped during or at the end of a jump.
Do I Need Special Skis For Jibbing?
The best type of ski for jibbing is the freestyle park ski which is specifically designed for jibbing and shredding.
These skis are generally much narrower and don’t usually feature a rocker as this allows greater contact with the surface. They are also twin-tipped.
The best skis for jibbing tend to be a little shorter than normal as this makes them much more nimble.
If you’re more into snowboarding than skiing then the good news is that there are also special snowboards made with jibbing in mind.
Much like skis, they are a little shorter and twin-tip.
They are also much more flexible than a regular board allowing for better movement around the jibs.
Conclusion
Skiing is much more than just hopping on a set of piste skis and leisurely gliding down the mountain.
For those with a little more experience or people who want to try something, a little different jibbing is a great option.
This type of skiing refers to tricks, jumps, and moves off the piste and is usually performed in a terrain park.
There are various jibs installed within the park for skiers to tap and slide over allowing them to develop their skills.
Of course, you will need a different type of ski, but we have all the information you’ll need to find the perfect pair as well as lots of other skiing tips. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get jibbing!
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About Frank V. Persall
Frank is originally from the UK, but he has a passion for skiing that knows no bounds. He has made it his life's mission to visit the best ski resorts across the USA and the World. Frank loves spending time with his wife and three children on ski slopes, as they all share his love for the activity.
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