How to Ski Steep Terrain
Overview: Skiing steep slopes presents a unique challenge due to our natural instincts to lean back when approaching steep descents. Overcome this instinct with the right mindset, preparation, and technique — such as maintaining an athletic stance, flexing ankles, shortening the inside leg, moving forward and performing Stivot turns when the conditions are icy and rough.
Ski the Steeps
Skiing steep slopes can be exhilarating and rewarding. With the right preparation, technique, and mindset, you can safely enjoy this aspect of alpine skiing.
This video explains and demonstrates useful tips for skiing steep slopes.
Use the technique demonstrated by the ‘Technique’ module to ski on steep terrain.
- Start with an athletic stance.
- Ensure both of your shins are pressing against the front of your boots at all times. Flex your outside ankle towards your big toe to start carving with the outside ski.
- Move your core and chest over your feet, directing them down the hill.
- Apply full pressure against your outside ski by stacking your core and outside leg, separating just below the shoulders.
- Shorten your inside leg. The steeper the hill, the more you should lift your inside heel and thigh.
- Plant your outside pole down the hill, aligning it with your ski boots.
Coach’s Tip for Very Steep Terrain
After planting your pole, keep your outside hand forward and let the tip of your ski pole lightly drag on the snow. This action prevents your body from moving backward and helps you return to an athletic stance, ready for the next turn.
Pole Plant and Touch
To learn how and when to plant or touch your pole to the snow; Click below.
Overcoming Instinct: The Key to Carving on Steep Slopes.
· We know that pressure needs to be applied to the front of the ski for the ski to start carving.
· However, as we approach a ridge where the slope steepens, our subconscious survival instincts will cause our body to lean backwards, putting pressure on our heels and the back of our skis.
· This reaction is because the human species learned millennia ago that throwing oneself over the edge of a cliff is not conducive to the survival of the species.
‘Focus’ to Ski With Confidence
· As you approach a steep pitch, tell yourself the word ‘Focus.’ This will help replace instinctual thoughts of anxiety and fear with the mindset and actions you know will enable you to ski in control.
· Occupy your mind with the actions you need to perform to ski well. This includes flexing your ankles, moving forward, having full pressure against your outside ski and keeping your shoulders level.
Shorten the Inside Leg
Lifting the heel or thigh of the inside leg will shorten the inside leg automatically transferring weight against the outside ski. This action is especially effective on steep terrain. To learn more; Click below.
‘Stivot’ when Steep, Icy and Rough
Learn how to use Stivot turns when conditions on steep terrain are too icy or rough for performing clean carved turns. To learn more; Click below.
Ski Fast Carving Turns
To learn how to practise skiing fast carving turns on steep terrain; Click below.
Inspect the Pitch for Safety
Inspect the steep section before you approach it with speed to ensure the conditions are appropriate for how you intend to ski the pitch. For instance, if you intend to ski fast, carved turns, make sure the pitch has been groomed rather than covered with moguls or other conditions that would put you at risk.
Key Takeaways
Mastering steep slopes in skiing requires overcoming natural instincts to lean back. Key strategies include mental focus, focusing on technique including the Athletic Stance, forward movement, stacking the outside leg, shortening the inside leg and using Stivot turns when snow conditions are challenging. Also focus on completing turns and maintain speed as you descend.
Suggested Learning Modules
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Important Note: Skiing and ski racing come with inherent risks. As such, it is imperative to ski responsibly and remain within the boundaries of your skill level and personal comfort zone.
