Snowpark users’ multi-faceted relationship with risk

Abstract A majority of snow sports enthusiasts now use snowparks, even if only occasionally. Epidemiological studies highlight the high probability of accidents occurring at these facilities, compared to traditional pistes. We sought to understand why and how snowparks users tackle such dangers. The representations and behaviours adopted by riders were identified using a questionnaire-based survey, developed after an initial phase of qualitative research. Age and level of expertise are the two main criteria around which the specificities of snowparks users’ relationship with risk are organised. With a few rare exceptions, every expert freestyler has sustained an injury of some severity. At the same time, expert freestylers engage in a process of ‘denial’ regarding the dangers involved in their sport. However, expert freestylers are not simply reckless. Indeed, their relationship with risk appears to be highly calculated, judging from the various behaviours they adopt to minimise the risk of an accident occurring. Helmet wearing is the only risk management behaviour that is adopted less frequently as the individual level of ability increases. Such an attitude allows experts to test their own capacity for judgement and independent thought, while also demonstrating it to others. Thus, the relationship experts have with risk is shaped to a degree by their desire to feel part of a community and stand out from the crowd. The benefits expected from flirting with danger are the greatest and the most diverse among younger individuals. For these individuals, taking risks is a quest to find themselves and their limits and thus forge an identity.