I recently decided to revisit the world of snowboarding in New York—let’s pretend my previous failed attempts in Japan and South Korea never happened. Excitement filled me as I shared my plans with friends, envisioning a small group adventure. However, their reactions were mostly marked by bewilderment. The prevalent question echoed, “Why would you willingly subject yourself to that?” – a sentiment tinged with a silent implication that seemed to say, “black girls don’t snowboard.”
This unspoken notion became evident in the stares and inquiries, centering on the challenges associated with cold weather and the distinct possibility of being the sole black individual navigating the slopes in what is often perceived as “white people’s territory.” The skepticism reflected a societal stereotype, highlighting the rarity of black individuals participating in winter sports, particularly snowboarding.
Despite my persuasive efforts, I succeeded in convincing two friends to join the snowboarding adventure, albeit with a set of conditions. Firstly, I had to secure accommodation with a hot tub and a breathtaking view of the mountains. Secondly, I had to recalibrate my expectations, as they had no intention of partaking in snowboarding or skiing activities but were open to alternative winter pursuits like dog sledding. Lastly, the focal point for them was the après-ski activities, encompassing visits to restaurants, bars, and any other social events the neighborhood had to offer.
Unfortunately, their participation was cut short as they canceled last minute, citing the expensive and challenging logistics associated with meeting up in the Adirondacks from out of state.
As I delved into trip research, their comments made me reflect on what subjecting myself to “that” meant. Recalling past experiences on slopes from Niseko in Japan to the Andes in Chile, I realized I was consistently the only black girl on the slopes and got stares for it. In South Korea, the only black people I saw were a couple of young men on what seemed to be a school trip.
Standing out on the slopes of Niseko as a black woman, I not only struggled with snowboarding but also garnered attention from others who encouraged my efforts. While embarrassing, it felt like I had a small community championing my progress. Online research revealed that skiing and snowboarding are not very popular within black communities in America, with only 1.5% engagement according to the National Ski Areas Association in 2022. From that percentage, I wonder how many are black girls snowboarding.
Black Women Representation on the Slopes – Snowboarding, Skiing, and the Myth of ‘Black Girls Don’t Snowboard
Further exploration into the world of winter sports revealed inspiring figures who have made significant contributions to breaking down barriers. Seba Johnson, recognized as a black female skiing pioneer, paved the way for others to follow. Gabrielle Maiden, the first black American female professional snowboarder, showcased skill and determination in a field where diversity was lacking.
The history of black involvement in winter sports extends back to the formation of the Jim Dandy Ski Club in 1958, marking a crucial milestone. Additionally, the National Brotherhood of Snowsports (NBS) emerged as a beacon of inclusivity and community support. With its 60 clubs nationwide, NBS provides a safe space for black individuals to engage in skiing and snowboarding as a collective. This initiative not only fosters a sense of belonging but also addresses the need for safety in predominantly white spaces within the winter sports community.
The initially surprising underrepresentation of black individuals in snow sports became clear to me when I discovered the significant financial barriers associated with participating in skiing and snowboarding communities in the United States. Apart from the legitimate concern about racial bias in predominantly white spaces, accessibility to snowboarding is a challenge for many. Ski slopes are often located in rural areas predominantly inhabited by white populations, granting them early exposure to snow sports. Due to the historical impact of systemic racism, gentrification, and segregation in the United States, many people of color did not grow up in these areas and lack connections to snow sports.
The Expense of Snowboarding and Skiing – Snowboarding, Skiing, and the Myth of ‘Black Girls Don’t Snowboard
As the distribution of wealth evolves within black households, an increasing number of financially secure black individuals are seeking adventurous experiences and indulging in bucket-list activities traditionally associated with the white demographic.
During my recent 11-day adventure in the Adirondacks and Catskills, I delved into the world of snowboarding on Gore, Belleayre, and Whiteface Mountains. The closest slope to New York City of the 3 is Belleayre, a 2-3 hour drive – a significant factor given that most city dwellers don’t own cars, opting to rent when seeking such experiences. Unlike slopes in other countries, where comprehensive combo packages encompass snowboard rental, outerwear, ski lifts, and lessons, such options are a rarity in the United States. Consequently, for a sport I may not yet master, I found myself investing a decent sum in purchasing the necessary outerwear, not to mention accommodation, après-ski experiences, logistics, and more.
While snowboards, boots, and helmets are typically available for rent at ski slopes, finding combo deals that include ski lift tickets is uncommon. My choice of Gore, Belleayre, and Whiteface Mountain in New York was driven by their offering of combo deals that also included lessons – a rarity in the U.S.
Read here for A Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding and Skiing – the Prep Phase
The cost of rental accommodation around these slopes can be prohibitive. Budget travelers seeking hostels will find limited options around popular ski slopes like Whiteface Mountain. Instead, renting an Airbnb, especially when traveling in a group, emerges as the most cost-effective option. Boutique lodges like Graham and Co. near Belleayre Mountain provide affordable bunk bed options that are on par with luxury hostels and rooms that can comfortably sleep up to four guests.
Considering these factors, particularly the financial and logistical challenges, it’s unsurprising that there is such a small representation of black women on ski slopes. The lack of accessible and affordable options, coupled with the absence of comprehensive combo packages, poses a barrier to entry for many, contributing to the underrepresentation of diverse communities in winter sports. Initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges could play a pivotal role in diversifying the demographic landscape on the slopes.
The perception that black girls don’t snowboard is inaccurate, though we remain a rare sight on the slopes. During my recent snowboarding trip to Belleayre over MLK’s holiday weekend, I counted a total of 5 black women throughout my 2-day slope experience. In Gore Mountain, I encountered none, and at Whiteface Mountain, the only other black lady I saw was my snowboarding instructor. In Belleayre, I observed that the black women I met mostly came with college friends for day trips, trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time.
Is There Racism on Ski Slopes? – Snowboarding, Skiing, and the Myth of ‘Black Girls Don’t Snowboard
While my personal experiences across six slopes in four countries involved minimal discrimination, research indicates that people of color skiing and snowboarding in white-dominated states like Utah and Colorado face racism on the slopes. Justin Talbot shared his experiences as a multiracial Japanese American in Utah in his article, “No, Skiing Isn’t a Welcome Place for People of Color—Not Yet.” Conversations on Reddit also discuss racist incidents across slopes globally, with a not-so-surprising number of individuals dismissing the concept of racism on the slopes. It’s as if the presence of snow is believed to magically erase the capacity for human nastiness.
A notable group called Mount Noire, comprising black women in England, organizes ski trips across Europe. Since its launch, Mount Noire has successfully introduced skiing and snowboarding to affluent black individuals seeking communities where they can try out these sports without fear of racial bias.
Despite the underrepresentation, efforts by communities like NBS, inclusive outreach programs such as SOS Outreach, and Winter4Kids are slowly changing the demographic makeup of slopes in the United States. These initiatives focus on introducing outdoor activities to kids within a safe space, contributing to a gradual shift in color representation on the slopes, including black women.
In conclusion, while the number of black individuals on slopes remains below 2% in the United States, initiatives like NBS and the ongoing efforts of communities and outreach programs are breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity in winter sports. The landscape is evolving, and the future promises a more diverse and welcoming environment on the snow-covered slopes.
Next Stops:
Read A Black Girl’s Guide to Snowboarding at Belleayre Mountain
Read Snowboarding at Gore Mountain: A Guide to Adventure in the Adirondacks for Black Girls
Read Snowboarding at Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York – A Black Girl’s Guide
