Snowboard or skis - which is easier to learn for an adult?

Skis are easier for a beginner - you're facing in the direction you're moving right away, and it's simpler to understand how to brake. Snowboarding takes getting used to the sideways stance and the feel of sliding; your back will be killing you from falls those first few days. On the other hand, snowboarding clicks in your head faster once you get the physics of it - progress comes in leaps and bounds. If you just want to cruise and have fun from day one, go with skis.