There comes a point in every middle-class or upwardly mobile person’s life when they hear the question: “Would you like to go skiing?” My answer is always the same: absolutely not.
I’ve come to see skiing as the emperor’s new clothes of leisure activities—a fantasy everyone agrees to uphold. People insist it’s magical, just like they claim cold-water swimming is “transformative” or that small plates are “better for sharing.” At some point, we stopped asking whether any of it is actually true.
This isn’t a blanket rejection of active holidays. I love the outdoors and am happy to hike, climb, or cycle. Nor is my dislike based on ignorance—I tried skiing once. I hated every moment and came away convinced that anyone who calls it “the best thing in the world” is either lying or slightly concussed.
First, there’s the cost. Skiing is far more expensive than the average holiday once you add up all the gear: specialized jackets, pants, gloves, goggles, helmets, boots—the ugliest clothes you’ll ever wear—plus poles, skis, overpriced chalet fees, and flights. You pay thousands for the privilege of spending a week queuing in the cold, mildly terrified, while someone in a fluorescent jacket yells at you in French.
Then there’s the very real risk of tumbling to your death—or at least suffering a serious, life-altering injury. Every skier I know comes back with some snapped ligament or mysterious knee issue they casually refer to as “something I picked up in Val d’Isère.” Entire orthopedic careers must be built on this ecosystem of madness.
Comfort is another puzzle. The idea that people in the UK willingly use their precious annual leave to be even colder than usual is baffling. Why pay to be damp, windburned, and bruised, surviving on overpriced pasta, when you could sip cocktails on a tropical island for a fraction of the cost?
And that’s all before the circus of après-ski: a crowd of the loudest, most exhausting people you’ll ever meet, all shouting “What school did you go to?” over a relentless assault of particularly awful EDM-Ibiza pop.
It feels like watching a cult from the outside: an unshakable belief in superiority, ritualized suffering, and an evangelical urge to convert the skeptics. I’ve yet to hear a sensible explanation for why it’s so popular. So yes, this is a hill I’m willing to die on—though crucially, not while skiing down it.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs The hill Im willing to die on is this people who ski have more money than sense
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 What does this phrase even mean
Its a humorous opinionated statement suggesting that skiing is an excessively expensive hobby and that those who do it prioritize spending large amounts of money over practical judgment
2 Is skiing really that expensive
Yes it can be Costs include lift tickets equipment travel to mountain resorts lodging and lessons These add up quickly
3 Why do people say skiers have more money than sense
Because the high cost is seen as disproportionate to the actual experience Critics argue you could have many other great vacations or hobbies for the same investment making skiing seem like a luxury purchase rather than a sensible one
4 Isnt this just a joke or stereotype
Yes its primarily a tongueincheek stereotype It plays on the image of skiing as a pastime for the affluent but it doesnt apply to every single skier
5 What are the main expenses in skiing
The biggest recurring costs are lift ticketspasses travel and accommodation Upfront gear costs and proper winter apparel are also significant
Advanced Practical Questions
6 How do skiers defend themselves against this claim
Skiers often argue that the cost is worth it for the unique combination of physical exercise mental escape connection with nature and social community Many also use strategies like season passes buying used gear or skiing at smaller hills to manage costs
7 Are there ways to ski on a budget
Absolutely Strategies include purchasing season passes early skiing at smallerlocal mountains renting equipment instead of buying new carpooling staying in budget accommodations and packing your own food
8 Whats a common financial pitfall for new skiers
Buying all brandnew topoftheline gear before knowing if youll enjoy the sport or stick with it Its smarter to rent or buy used gear initially
