Skiing
Ski Tests in Austria: Kicking Off the 2024/2025 Winter Season
The winter season is just around the corner, and for keen skiers and snowboarders, there’s nothing more exciting than trying out the latest gear on the slopes. Whether you’re interested in the newest equipment or simply want to prepare for the perfect season ahead, this year’s numerous ski and snowboard test events offer the ideal opportunity. Not only do these events allow you to test top brands for free, but they also feature workshops, exciting programmes, and unforgettable experiences amidst the stunning Alpine landscape. To save you the trouble of searching for the best events, we’ve already rounded up the key test days for the 2024/2025 winter season. Let’s get started!

Overview Events
Ski Test Events Calendar
- 8th – 10th November 2024:– Zell am See/Kaprun: Snowtime Kitzsteinhorn
- 23rd – 24th November 2024 – FIS Ski World Cup Event in Gurgl
- 29th November – 1st December 2024 – Freeheeler European Opening in Hintertux
- 6th – 8th December 2024 – Stanton Ski Open in St. Anton
- 6th – 8th December 2024 – Fischer Ski Test in Galtür
- 7th – 8th December 2024 – SkiTestival in Mayrhofen
- 10th – 12th January 2025 – Splitboard Festival am Achensee
* Dates are subject to change
Events
Diese Ski-Test-Events solltest du nicht verpassen
Die schönsten Skigebiete in Österreich eröffnen mit unvergesslichen Events und kostenlosen Ski-Tests:
- Event dates: 8th – 10th November 2024
- Brands featured: Various ski and snowboard manufacturers
VAYA Tip: VAYA Zell am See and VAYA Kaprun are ideally located near the Kitzsteinhorn, providing the perfect retreat after an active day on the slopes.
Gurgl launches the winter season from the 23rd till the 24th November 2024 with a spectacular event. The fun kicks off on Thursday evening with live music to set the tone. You can also witness the official bib handout to the World Cup stars, an exciting prelude to Saturday’s FIS World Cup slalom race at Kirchenkar. Alongside the races, enjoy parties, a musical hut rally, and, of course, more ski testing.
- Event date: 23rd and 24th November 2024
- Brands featured: Various ski manufacturers
VAYA Tip: After an exhilarating day on the slopes (or a lively après-ski party), VAYA Sölden is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the exclusive Alpine atmosphere.
From 29th November to 1st December, the Hintertux Glacier hosts Europe’s largest Telemark event. Skiers can try out the latest Telemark models from top brands, with free testing available all weekend. The event also features workshops for all skill levels, kids’ courses, and lively evening events with live music.
- Event dates: 29th November – 1st December 2024
- Brands featured: Leading Telemark manufacturers
VAYA Tip: VAYA Zillertal is the perfect base, allowing you to enjoy proximity to Hintertux and relax in the spa after a day on the slopes.
The Stanton Ski Open in St. Anton am Arlberg kicks off the season from 6th to 8th December 2024, offering a vibrant mix of events. Visitors can enjoy free ski and snowboard testing at the Galzigbahn, live music, avalanche safety talks, and a festive atmosphere with Advent celebrations.
- Event dates: 6th – 8th December 2024
- Brands featured: A wide range of ski and snowboard manufacturers
VAYA Tip: VAYA St. Anton provides the ideal blend of luxury and convenience, located just minutes from the slopes.
Galtür’s winter season kicks off from 6th to 8th December with the Fischer Ski Test, where you can trial the latest models from Fischer. Enjoy live music, the season’s first night skiing session, and plenty of fun on the slopes.
- Event dates: 6th – 8th December 2024
- Brand featured: Fischer
VAYA Tip: The VAYA Galtür Paznaun offers a superb mix of relaxation and activity for families and ski enthusiasts alike.
Taking place at the Penkenbahn mountain station on 7th and 8th December 2024, the SkiTestival in Mayrhofen is the ideal opportunity to try out the latest models from Bründl Sports. It’s a must for those looking to upgrade their gear or simply enjoy a day on the slopes with fellow ski lovers.
- Event dates: 7th – 8th December 2024
- Brand featured: Bründl Sports
VAYA Tip: After a day at the SkiTestival, relax in the stylish surroundings of VAYA Zillertal, a perfect retreat after a full day of skiing.
From 10th to 12th January 2025, Europe’s largest splitboard event takes place at Achensee. Test the latest splitboard gear, take part in guided tours, and join workshops on avalanche awareness and tour planning.
- Event dates: 10th – 12th January 2025
- Brands featured: Various splitboard manufacturers
VAYA Tip: The VAYA Achensee is the ultimate place to unwind after a day exploring the mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and splitboarding fans.
Accommodations
Need to unwind after the ski test event? Welcome to VAYA
Book
Ski Test Events in Austria – The Perfect Start to Winter 2024/2025
Austria’s ski test events are the ideal way to get ready for the winter season. Whether you ski or snowboard, these events offer the chance to trial the latest gear from top brands for free, attend fascinating workshops, and experience the beauty of the Austrian Alps. From the stunning landscapes at Kitzsteinhorn to the adrenaline of the World Cup in Gurgl, every event offers something unique for winter sports lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Perfect Addition: VAYA Resorts
For the ultimate combination of action-packed days and relaxing evenings, VAYA Resorts offer the ideal accommodation in these regions. Whether in Zell am See, Galtür, St. Anton, or Achensee, VAYA Resorts provide luxurious comfort, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere after a day on the slopes.
With VAYA Resorts, your winter holiday becomes an unforgettable experience – enjoy the 2024/2025 ski season at its very best!
VAYA Resorts
Service at the highest level, excellent locations in the premier resorts throughout Austria. Typical VAYA design with the highest quality furnishing and the use of wood, glass and leather characterize the VAYA Resorts. With many different accommodation types and categories to choose from, there is something for everyone, stunning wellness areas and the lifestyle restaurant VAYA Bar & Grill all complement a wonderful stay.
VAYA Apartments
The equipment of our exclusive VAYA apartments leaves nothing to be desired. They are available in many different sizes and configurations. Thanks to the integrated kitchen with a dining area, allow you to spend your holidays how you like in your own time. A number of additional services are available on request such as a bread and pastry morning delivery service.
VAYA Unique
Exceptional service, highest quality in every area and unique design characterize VAYA Unique. Its unique location makes it just as special as its facilities. In addition to culinary delights, you will also experience wellness at its best at VAYA Unique. VAYA Unique is special – just like you.