THE WEDGE OR SNOWPLOW TURN

In the left photo above, the skier is in a relaxed wedge position with feet comfortably apart and the ski tips inward. For a slower turn, widen the stance (braking wedge). In the middle and right photos above, the skier steers or twists the feet in the direction of the turn. The skis must be in the wedge or skidding position to make this turn happen. Rotary or twisting actions predominate this turn.

After the turn is completed ( left photo above), start steering or twisting the feet in the direction of the new turn as shown in the middle and left photos above. The turn is performed with lower body musculature. Upper body movement such as tilting in the direction of the turn may help. This turn is used by expert skiers such as Ski Patrollers when taking people down the hill on toboggans. This turn can also be used in tight quarters or moving into lift lines. Many times after practice the wedge becomes narrower and skis approach a parallel position.

Video snow ski beginning wedge turn lesson with normal speed and slow motion

BACK TO ROBERTS SKI AND SNOWBOARD INSTRUCTION HOME PAGE