Piste Maps: Then and Now

There’s a certain charm to ski piste maps. Whether it’s tracing your planned route with a finger over coffee or regrouping with friends mid-run to figure out where you took that wrong turn — they’re our necessary and trusted companion on the mountain. Which got me thinking about how they originated and how they have evolved…

From Art to Essential

The early piste maps weren’t just functional — they were miniature works of art. French illustrator Pierre Novat is one of the most famous names in the history of ski map design. Prior to his work in the 1960s, piste maps were fairly rudimentary technical diagrams.  However, Novat’s hand-drawn, 3D-style maps captured the soul of the mountains while helping generations of skiers navigate them.

His work shaped the look of resort maps for decades and many resorts still follow his style to this day — even if the designs are now created with digital tools.

Modern Problem, Smart Solution

While the artwork remains iconic, one thing hasn’t changed: traditional piste maps are, frankly, a bit awkward. Paper doesn’t mix well with snow, gloves, wind, or chairlifts.

There has been a shift to digital alternatives – resort apps that not only show piste maps but also live updates on lift status, avalanche risk and more.  When cold hands are pulling expensive phones out on chairlifts to plan the next run it can be a recipe for disaster and of course you need a signal!

The trixski solution

If you still like the idea of huddling around a map planning your next day’s skiing, check out our WipeOut 2-in-1 Piste Map/Goggle Cloth — one of our most popular products and for very good reasons.

Printed on durable microfibre cloth, these clever little maps are waterproof, quick-drying and lightweight. They tuck into your pocket, won’t fall apart in the wet and double as a lens-cleaning cloth for your goggles or glasses. Handy, right?

They're also double-sided and clearly printed, with a range of resort maps available — from popular Alpine destinations to slightly more niche gems. Perfect whether you’re exploring a new resort for the first time or just like having a reliable, pocket-friendly backup to your phone’s map app.

Why We Love It (And Think You Will Too)

• When the infrastructure has been enhanced e.g. with a new lift, the lift companies also update the piste map.  WipeOut, who produce the microfibre version, ensure their latest edition is also updated.
• It doesn’t tear, get soggy or disintegrate mid-run.
• It’s practical and lightweight — no bulk in your pocket.
• It’s great for both beginners and seasoned skiers navigating unfamiliar slopes.
• It’s a fantastic gift or stocking filler for the skier who has everything.

Oh, and did we mention it’s one of our top sellers? Because once you use one, you won’t want to go back.

Ready to Upgrade Your On-Slope Kit?

Piste maps have come a long way — from hand-drawn mountain masterpieces to clever, pocket-sized tools that help you navigate, stay safe and keep your goggles crystal clear. Whether you’re heading to a brand-new resort or revisiting an old favourite, a WipeOut piste map cloth is a smart companion for your jacket pocket – they also make great stocking fillers at Christmas.