Growth industry for the piste

Luc Alphand Top Gun

Whilst getting in physical shape is paramount to a good ski, you gots to look good in Serre Che.

And looking good in Serre Chevalier for guys is all about grooming – not just corduroy on the piste – but some sweet chops on your cheeks or chin.

In this valley that means Alphandising, or sporting the same look worn by Luc Alphand for many a year. You can see the 1997 world champion’s cut has been adopted by many a fan and it will help you fit right in with local culture.

Fergus Rainbow Top Lip

For those not au fait with the local legend’s facial hair look, it’s your basic Swiss cut, straight sided, over-lip, but with a 3/4 chin, 10 day deep goatee. If you get going from the morning of the Thursday one week before getting here, there should be ample growth when you arrive.

The easiest way is to grow full and trim back, with maintenance after that best carried out at least twice a week.

Unfortunately the 10% “barbe du champion” discount on the ski pass was discontinued after the area was flooded with stick on jokers two years ago, but you will still feel the love.

Of course you’ve got to try the piste named in honour of the real man in Chantmerle. It’s black but not too black, if you know what I mean, it can get a wee bit icy, so you have to choose your moment, but honestly it’s a nice wide run that lets you come down at your own pace.

If you fall don’t forget to take it on the chin – man I crack me up.