Snow skiing is a group of sports utilizing skis as primary equipment. Skis are used in conjunctions with boots that connect to the ski with use of a binding. Although snowboarding shares the general characteristics of skiing sports, it evolved from surfing and skateboarding and so is not considered a type of skiing. Skiing can be grouped into two general categories. Nordic skiing is the oldest category and includes sport that evolved from skiing as done in Scandinavia. Nordic style bindings attach at the toes of the skier's boots, but not at the heels. Alpine skiing includes sports that evolved from skiing as done in the Alps. Alpine bindings attach at both the toe and the heel of the skier's boots. As with many disciplines, such as Telemark skiing, there is some crossover. However, binding style and history tend to dictate whether a style is considered Nordic, or Alpine. For example, Telemark's lack of a locking heel, and it's roots in Telemark, Norway, have earned it the distinction of a Nordic Discipline. Ukraine is hardly known internationally for its ski resorts, but there are actually plenty of places to ski in Ukraine. The ski industry is rapidly developing as downhill skiing in Ukraine catches up in popularity to the rest of the world. Over the past decade some decent resorts have appeared where one can have a real ski experience. Prices remain low by European standards, both for lift tickets and rental equipment.  There are ski and snowboarding facilities right here in the centre of Kiev. Located at 23a Protasiv Yar, the city's own little resort offers two runs with lifts - one of 300 metres and one of 500 metres. There is a halfpipe for more experienced riders and equipment rental and instruction. There are also ski runs, with lifts, of 300 metres in length in Vyshgorod and in Kiev's Golosiivsky Park.

23A Protasov Yar Street
Kiev
Website: http://www.gora.com.ua/