Skiing
Ski Tests in Austria: Kicking Off the 2025/2026 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 2025/2026 winter season. Let’s get started!
Overview Events
Ski Test Events Calendar
- Mid-October – Beginning of December 2025 – Sölden: Gletscher Testcenter
- 8th – 9th November 2025 – Zell am See/Kaprun: Snowtime Kitzsteinhorn
- 28th – 30th November 2025 – Zell am See/Kaprun: Bergwelten Ski Touring Festival
- 24th November – 30th November 2025 – Zillertal/Hintertux: Freeheeler European Opening in Hintertux
- 5th – 7th December 2025 – St. Anton am Arlberg: Stanton Ski Open in St. Anton
- 9th – 11th January 2026 – Achensee: Split board Festival in Achensee
- 21st – 25th January 2026 – Elbigenalp Lechtal: Lechtal Ski Tour Days
* Dates are subject to change
Events
Don't miss these ski testing events
The most beautiful ski resorts in Austria are opening with unforgettable events and free ski tests:
The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Zell am See/Kaprun is one of the first ski areas to open each season, with Snowtime kicking off the festivities from 8th to 9th November 2025. Skiers and snowboarders can test the latest gear for free, while also enjoying workshops and thrilling winter activities. Highlights include the SnowTime Cup, a vertical metre challenge, and the popular “Cash4Tricks” freestyle contest, where you can earn cash rewards for your best stunts.
- Event dates: 8th – 9th November 2025
- 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.
From 28 to 30 November 2025, Bergwelten kicks off the 2025/26 ski touring season at the Kitzsteinhorn. During the event, participants have the perfect opportunity to set out on their first ski tour of the season, guided by experienced mountain guides from Naturfreunde. At the same time, you can test the very latest equipment, with professional product workshops included. A dedicated avalanche training field gives you the chance to refresh and improve your avalanche safety skills.
On test are touring skis, skins, poles, avalanche transceivers, full avalanche gear, rucksacks, GPS multi-sport watches, helmets, goggles, ski touring boots, activewear and much more. The weekend also includes guided ski tours, product training sessions, an Ortovox avalanche workshop, and a major prize draw with fantastic rewards.
- Event dates: 28th – 30th November 2025
- Brands featured: Various ski manufacturers
VAYA Tip: After an action-packed day on the mountain, VAYA Zell am See and VAYA Kaprun are the perfect places to unwind and soak up the exclusive atmosphere of the Alps.
From 28th to the 30th of November, 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: 28th – 30th November 2025
- 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 7th to 9th 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: 7th – 9th December 2025
- 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.
From mid-October to early December, the Glacier Test Centre in Sölden invites winter sports enthusiasts to try out the very latest equipment from leading brands right on the slopes. With over 600 pairs of skis available (plus helmets, poles, and boots for hire) it’s the perfect way to get a feel for next season’s gear.
Please note: the ski test is not free, but you’ll enjoy premium service, daily ski maintenance, and unlimited equipment swaps. For extra convenience, you can book your setup online in advance and head straight for the slopes.
- Event dates: Mid October to Beginning of December
- Brands featured: A wide range of ski and snowboard manufacturers
VAYA Tip: After a busy day of skiing, get some rest and relax at the VAYA Sölden.
From 09th to 11th January 2026, Europe’s largest split board event takes place at Achensee. Test the latest split board gear, take part in guided tours, and join workshops on avalanche awareness and tour planning.
- Event dates: 09th – 11th January 2026
- Brands featured: Various split board manufacturers
VAYA Tip: The VAYA Achensee is the ultimate place to unwind after a day exploring the mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and split boarding fans.
From 21 to 25 January 2026, the Tyrolean Lech Valley becomes all about the magic of ski touring.
Guided tours through the snow-covered peaks of the Allgäu and Lech Valley Alps cater for every ability – from first-timers to seasoned pros. Experienced mountain guides share their expertise and make sure each outing is unforgettable. A varied supporting programme adds the finishing touch to these special days.
- Event dates: 21st – 25th January 2026
- Brands featured: Various manufacturers
VAYA Tip: The new VAYA Lechtal is the perfect base for your tours – set off with ease and return to relax in the spa or savour a delicious dinner after an active day in the mountains.
Accommodations
Need to unwind after the ski test event? Welcome to VAYA
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Ski Test Events in Austria – The Perfect Start to Winter 2025/2026
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. 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 2025/2026 ski season at its very best!
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