THE WEDGE POSITION

The snowplow or wedge position forms the basis for many teaching systems. For the beginning skier it offers a more stable stance since the skis are relatively wide apart and the inside edges are mildly engaged. The larger the wedge or slice of pie, the slower the speed. Weight is over the center of the ski with the hands up and forward to aid in balance. Poles are angled to the rear. Although this position should not dominate your ski technique as skills improve, it is a valuable position in emergencies and for adjusting speed. Ski patrollers often use the wedge position to ferry toboggans down steep slopes.

Young skier in the wedge position showing tip closer together than the tails of the ski.

Wedge position showing equal weight on each ski and ski tips closer together than the tails.

Freestyle skier using a wedge to set the proper speed for a move.

Freestyle skier using a switch wedge in preparation for a move on a feature.

Skier adjusts speed using a wedge prior to mounting a table.