Snowblading

Also known as ski-blading. You throw away your ski poles, wear wider, shorter skis and go much faster than with traditional skiing.

Telemarking

This Nordic ski technique which originated in the nineteenth century is predicted to be big this season. It's sometimes known as 'freeheeling' as only the toe is clipped into the skis, which are lighter and narrower than traditional Alpine skis. This allows you to bend your legs to a kneeling position to make your turns. The benefits? Thigh muscles to die for and skiing through slush and powder is easier.

Monoskiing

Since its Eighties heyday, monoskiing has been confined to the most French of French ski resorts, but a revival is predicted. You use just one ski, but it's wide enough to get both your feet on side by side. You twist and turn your way down the slopes in a rather camp way (hence the nickname 'gays on trays').

Snowdecking

Imagine riding a skateboard without wheels through snow and that's pretty much what snowdecking is about. It's popular among the younger snowboarding fraternity who like to do stunts, but you can't go very far, so it's not ideal if you want a full day of non-stop activity.