How to Ski on Black Diamonds

Black diamond trails are challenging slope terrains meant for experienced and advanced skiers. Expect to find some steep angles and difficult bumps along the way. According to the North American trail ratings, black diamond ski terrains have slope angles that range from 40 percent and above. Some trails are also marked as black diamonds due to icy surfaces and less groomed conditions. Prepare yourself by practicing on easier slopes and improving techniques to negotiate twists, turns and bumps.

Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain your balance by changing your weight from one side of your body to the other. Black diamond trails are much steeper and less groomed, which makes it harder to balance. The steeper slopes also force the skier to go faster, making balancing and proper form essential to negotiating the hill.

    • 2

      Support your weight on the inside edge of your ski while you carve a turn on a black diamond slope. Put lesser weight on your uphill ski while keeping your shoulders level with your hands forward. Bend your knees and keep the hips low to maintain position.

    • 3

      Control your speed on the steep terrains of black diamonds by skiing rhythmically. Timing is the key when it comes to controlling how fast your are going. When you make an uphill half turn, put pressure on your downhill ski while you carve a turn past the fall line. Continue on a rhythm to traverse and go uphill once your speed is under control, then start a downhill turn. By doing so, you keep you skis continually on edge and maintain your speed. Keep a dynamic stance with your weight forward and feet just slightly apart. Your upper body should be facing slightly downhill.

    • 4

      Expect challenging bumps and moguls on black diamond slopes. To ski through bumps, maintain your hands up in front of you because you want your legs to be completely prepared for impact. Harness your speed and stay in control to get through the mogul fields. Keep you chest up and your hips forward.