Guidance

What's a "State certified" instructor?

> The Austrian qualification system for ski and snowboard instructors knows three levels. To achieve the first level, Anwärter, a candidate must succesfully finish a ten day training course. Anwärter instructors are qualified to teach beginners. The second level takes a training course of 26 days and is called Landes. Achieving Landes level makes you qualified to teach intermediate skiers or snowboarders and opens the door to the third and prestigious level of State certified instructor. After finishing a training course that takes about ten weeks and is regulated by the Austrian state, a State certified instructor is well-informed on the theory and practice of teaching expert level skiers or snowboarders. This is seen as one of the highest qualifications in the world. All Ski-Madness riders have obtained this qualification.

What's a "Skiguide" or "Snowboardguide"?

> Someone who has succesfully finished the Austrian State Skiguide or Snowboardguide training course. These courses are part of the winter program of the Austrian State Mountainguide school and are available to State certified instructors. Skiguide and Snowboardguide are trained to lead groups into high mountains and glaciers. Ski-Madness works with them during Lift & Ride, Hike & Ride and Fly & Ride programs.

Why ski with a State certified instructor and guide?

> A State certified instructor skis/snowboards and teaches at the highest level. He can teach skiers or snowboarders at any level a thing or two. A Guide is expert in variant skiing, snowboarding and touring and knows everything there is to know about safety measures on extreme terrain. These guys make the best freeride buddies you could wish for.

You work in different areas. Do you know these areas well enough?

> We know the areas where we work very well. We visit these areas in our free time and with our guest for many years. The routes and tours, which we use for our programs, are carefully planned and explored if necessary. In addition, we always work with local guides. This way we’ll be informed on the latest situation regarding to routes, weather, snow and avalanches.