At some point every skier runs across an icy patch. The loss of control caused by not being able to grip the ice is both unnerving and dangerous. Thankfully there are few things you can do to maintain control during these situations and limit the risk to you and other skiers.
Perhaps the most important tip is keeping your skis tuned. If you edges are dull you stand little chance of making controlled turns on ice (or anywhere else). All skis should be tuned once or twice a season. If your skis don’t need a full tune and you know you will be skiing on ice you can use an edge sharpener to touch up your edges.
Once you encounter ice the first thing to remember is to stay focused and forward. Acknowledging the situation without panicking is vital to successfully managing and controlling your outcome.
Keep a generally wider stance. This allows for a more stable platform and makes it easier to achieve greater edge angles.
Balance on your outside ski early in the turn – this countering will keep your hips facing downhill and help you maintain an aggressive stance. Stay balanced on that ski. You should expect that some slipping will occur. When it does stay forward and use rounded turns whether skidded or carved. Think of your skis as a knife sheering the snow the natural sidecut of the ski should be used to assist with the turn shape.
Do not rush! Skiing ice takes patience as well as skill.
Taos Property Rentals Concierge Service will gladly book individual or group lessons for you and party during your stay at our vacation rental properties.
