Woman Gets On Ski Lift In California. Then She Overhears Men’s Conversation: ‘My Bad Bro, We Will Look At You In The Eyes Harder Next Time’

A California ski trip turned uncomfortably awkward when two friends found themselves sandwiched between strangers on a chairlift.

While that would normally be fine—the lift just takes a minute or two—these guys went out of their way to make the ride uncomfortable for them.

Passive-Aggressive Ski Lift Commentary

In a viral video with more than 150,000 views, Esther (@wornheartvintage) documents the uncomfortable ski lift ride.

“POV: you and your bestie are sitting in between the most passive aggressive people ever who were offended that you weren’t chatty,” Esther said in the text overlay.

The footage shows dangling legs as the chairlift ascends the snow, a peaceful scene that contrasts the tension captured in the audio. The men on either side of Esther and her friend launch into a conversation that feels less like genuine dialogue and more like pointed commentary directed at their silent seatmates.

“Yeah. It just shows you what a little bit of greed does,” one man says. “Yeah. Including in the way people ski, the lifts aren’t the same. Even from when I was a kid, people used to talk and have a conversation, and now no one, like, looks at each other.”

The implication is clear; the women sitting between them are part of this cultural decline.

“It’s crazy,” he continues.

The video resonates with anyone who’s experienced the particular brand of social awkwardness that comes with shared spaces and unspoken expectations. Chairlifts present a unique social dynamic—you’re literally strapped in next to strangers for several minutes with no escape route. Some people welcome the chance for brief conversation. Others prefer to enjoy the scenic ride in silence.

Neither approach is inherently wrong. But weaponizing nostalgia for “the good old days” when people supposedly talked more (while your captive audience sits right next to you) creates exactly the kind of hostile environment that makes people want to keep to themselves.

“My bad bro, we will look at you in the eyes harder next time, I guess a smile wasn’t enough,” Esther said in the caption.

Understanding Ski Lift Etiquette

While there are clear rules about safety and right-of-way on the slopes, the social dynamics of chairlifts fall into murkier territory.

According to Powder Magazine, being mindful of your lift companions is essential. Chairlifts are shared spaces, and while they’re great for striking up conversations with new people, you need to be aware of your audience. The publication notes that topics and language should be adjusted based on who’s sitting next to you, especially when children are present.

But here’s where it gets tricky: there’s no requirement to chat. Greek Peak Mountain Resort emphasizes that lift etiquette is primarily about safety, not socialization. Key rules include informing others before lowering the safety bar, letting people know which direction you plan to exit, and using lifts safely according to attendants’ instructions.

The real etiquette violation in Esther’s video wasn’t the women’s silence; it was the men’s passive-aggressive commentary. Undercover Tourist reminds skiers of a kindergarten lesson: “Be kind to those around you.” Making pointed remarks about how “no one looks at each other” while your quiet seatmates are right there violates that basic principle of respect.

Actual Chairlift Etiquette Rules:

• Alert others before lowering the safety bar to avoid hitting someone in the head.
• Keep inappropriate language or topics in check when sharing the lift with strangers.
• Consider announcing which direction you’ll exit to avoid collisions.
• Don’t leave your skis in line to hold your spot—queues are for people, not equipment.
• Treat lift operators with respect, they can’t control weather, terrain closures, or lift speed.
• Be patient with beginners who may need extra time loading or unloading.

Commenters React

Viewers mocked the men in the comments section.

“Ken only has a good day if Barbie looks at him,” a top comment read.

“People can’t handle an introvert. Not everyone wants to YAPPPP to strangers,” a person said.

“You don’t owe men a conversation, keep it up queen,” another wrote.

“People get so offended when a stranger isn’t willing to give them the attention and conversation that *they* want it’s so weird,” a commenter added.

BroBible reached out to Esther via email and TikTok direct message.