Every skier and rider knows the rule. It’s not in any handbook, but it’s as real as face shots and frozen goggles: there are no friends on a powder day.
Why? Because when the mountain wakes up covered in a foot of fresh, fluffy snow, priorities change. Your best friend might still be fumbling with their boots in the lodge, but you’re already in the lift line. Your sibling says, “Wait up!” Sorry, fresh tracks don’t wait. Even your partner gives you that look—but trust me, they’ll understand when they get their own untouched run.
On a powder day, hesitation costs you turns. And nothing—nothing—is worse than watching someone else carve up that pristine line you had your eyes on while you stood around being polite.
Does this make you a bad friend? Of course not. You’ll meet up later, high-five at the base, and swap stories of bottomless runs. Powder days are about maximizing joy, and sometimes that means embracing a little friendly selfishness.
So, the next time it dumps, remember the rule: powder first, apologies later. Your friends will forgive you—especially if you buy the first round at après.