The Best Ski Learning Techniques

Whether you're a novice or an experienced downhill skier, all ski learning techniques are invaluable, especially ones that are essential for safety. Mastering the art of skiing is a gradual process, and the best way to learn is by consistent practice. Choose a ski learning technique that matches your ability and skill level, then progress onto more difficult ones.

  1. Wedge

    • Wedge, also known as snowplow, is a beginner technique for learning how to go down the slopes and navigate in a slow and controlled manner. To assume the wedge position, point your skis inward so that the tips are in a V shape. Slightly bend your knees in toward each other, and the ski edges will naturally dig into the snow. Hold the poles in front of you with the tips pointing outward. Pick a gentle slope to start with and position yourself to go down diagonally facing the far side. A diagonal position allows you plenty of time to learn and practice making turns.

    Practice the Wedge

    • Begin going downhill by using your poles to push you off. Keep the wedge position the entire time and control your speed by digging in the inside edges of your skis and by widening the V opening. Gain speed by releasing tension or pressure weight through your legs, but never break the wedge stance. When turning, put your weight through the leg that is upslope, dig in the ski to force you to turn and continue going down the slope. Keep the weight on the upslope side and hang on to the turn until your skis are pointing diagonally to the other side of the slope. The wedge is one of the best beginner learning techniques for ski control, balance and turning.

    Parallel Turns

    • This technique requires time and practice to master, as it is one of the best ski learning techniques for advanced skiers. Parallel turning allows you to make side-to-side turns in quick succession while going downhill at high speed. When performing parallel turns, you will be mostly facing straight down while going down the mountain. To perfect this technique, you must keep your skis parallel to each other, even when changing angles to slow slightly and to navigate around structures.

    Practice Parallel Turns

    • Place your downhill ski poles in front and hold both arms in front of your body. Slightly bend your knees and keep your body weight centered. Initiate the turn by putting your weight through the upper ski while digging the inside edge in. Keep the other ski parallel by skiing the outside edge against the snow while lessening your body weight through that leg. Finish and quickly start the next parallel ski turn.