New Survey Reveals Much About UK Skiers & Snowboarders

It comes from the ski travel agent, Iglu Ski, and the high street retailer, Ellis Brigham.

There are some obvious findings and a few surprises.

87% of those surveyed said snow certainty was a key factor in resort choice, along with 63% who said value for money was key.

No surprises there.

However, 35% said they take two 7-night trips per season and while the majority of beginners were in their 20’s,  some were 50+ years old.

Interesting.

The number of bars and restaurants in a resort is far more important than non-skiing activities, family-friendly activities and the number of supermarkets.

You don’t say.

And is this obvious or a surprise, as skiing seems to be becoming more of a middle-age activity?

Iglu Ski/Ellis Brigham survey

Iglu Ski/Ellis Brigham survey

The survey was undertaken in April and May 2024 and respondents from Iglu Ski and Ellis Brigham’s databases took part.

Other findings include:

  • 87% said snow certainty was a key factor in resort choice
  • 82% undertake ski holiday research online
  • 63% said value for money was key
  • 49% prefer to shop for kit in a ski specialist shop
  • 35% travel with their family
  • 35% travel with a small group of friends,
  • 12% were interested in suitability for beginners
  • 7% for non-ski options

See here for the full 23-page survey.

Lunch at mountain restaurant

Schladming mountain restaurant. Image © PlanetSKI.

“Each year we learn more and more about skiers thanks to this in-depth survey, and adapt our plans around guest preferences,” said Iglu Ski Managing Director, Simon McIntyre.

“It’s great to see many skiers taking two 7-night trips a season and good to know that people are learning to ski at all ages, from 3 to 60 and beyond.

“All in all, the market is growing steadily and we’re confident of a great season ahead .”

Iglu Ski/Ellis Brigham survey

Iglu Ski/Ellis Brigham survey

About Iglu Ski

Iglu Ski was established in 1998 by ski fanatic Richard Downs, who is chairman to this day.

Iglu is the UK’s largest ski travel agency, offering over 380 ski resorts across 18 countries and three continents.

An independent agent, Iglu offers unbiased advice to find the right winter sports holiday for every guest.

Its website includes handy snow reports and snow forecasts.

Iglu has provided holidays for more than 400,000 skiers and snowboarders.

It was Online Travel Agency of the Year 2023 in the Agent Achievement Awards.

Iglu is an ABTA-bonded travel agent selling ski accommodation and ATOL-bonded flight packages.

Awarded the Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo in 2023 and 2024 with a 4.7/5 score from customers and a rating of ‘Excellent’ from Trustpilot reviews.