FREE TO RIDE

FREERIDE

During the FreeRide training, our students will get well acquainted with the freeriding culture and its various aspects. This study path option is suitable for all snowsports enthusiasts, whether they prefer freeride skis, snowboard or telemark equipment. Learning off-piste safety skills in theory as well as through practical training comprises a central part of the freeride training programme.

Learning out in the open is primarily carried out during 6 to 7 freeriding camps, which take place in Finland and also abroad. In connection with these camps, the participants will have the opportunity to enter freeriding competitions. Kittilä’s central location amidst the best freeriding opportunities offered by Lapland’s fells allows for easy to organize day trips to the backcountry.

As a part of their studies, the freeride students will also have the opportunity to attend ski instructor training courses by FNASI, the Finnish National Association of Snowsports Instructors, and to carry out a paid internship at Levi Ski School. During and after your studies you also have the opportunity of working as a ski instructor.

Apply NOW

Applications for the Levi SnowSport Academy’s FreeSki program open on 15 December 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. If you are applying for more than one program, please complete a separate application for each.

Applications are submitted via the link provided. For more information, please contact Sami Suhonen, tel. +358 50 567 3579.

THANK YOU FOR THE PHOTO COLLABORATION!

JOINT ACTIVITIES, ENJOYING OUTDOOR LIFE AND HAVING FUN TOGETHER ARE AMONG THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS FOR THE FREERIDE GROUP!

Coach Sami Suhonen

TRAINING CONCEPT

Training is carried out mainly through daytime training sessions in and around Kittilä.

A total of 6 to 7 freeride camps per season in Finland and abroad.

Opportunities for entering freeride competitions in connection with the camps

During the snow-free season our students will be out in the open doing running, mountain biking, downhill biking and paddling. Indoor training also includes physical gym training and climbing.

TUITION FEE
2 000 €

INCLUDING

Training by top experts
Season ski pass at Levi ski area
Transportation to training events
Equipment rental fees
Alpine ski instructor Level 1 training course
Snow and mountain safety level 1 training course
Rope safety support techniques training course
First aid training courses, levels 1 and 2

Students will be personally responsible for taking out an insurance policy that will cover the risks included in their freeriding and freestyle training and/or competitions. Camps and trips outside Kittilä municipality are not included in the term fee, except for coaching.

SELECTION OF STUDENTS

Maximum group size 12 persons
A general average of 7.5 or higher required on primary and lower secondary school final certificate (for upper secondary school students)
Sound basic skills in skiing, snowboarding or telemarking
Interest in freeriding and desire to develop oneself as a skier/rider/snowboarder
The students for the FreeRide group will be selected in spring, before the end of the general application period for higher secondary grade schools.
Valitsemme opiskelijat FreeRide-ryhmään keväisin, ennen yhteishaun päättymistä

+ Participation at alpine training camps and/or at training activities arranged by Levi Ski Club will be considered an advantage when applying for traineeship at Levi Snowsports Academy.