Dropping off of a natural obstacle such as a rock, cliff or cornice on your skis is a thrilling experience and requires advanced skills. Before you drop in, check the snow quality and stability of your line, advises SkiingtheBackCountry.com. With a few ski techniques and safety practices, as well as fresh, deep powder, you can perform a ski drop.
Step 1
Scope your landing and ensure that there is enough snow to cushion your drop as well as a downhill slope, rather than a flat landing.
Step 2
Make sure that the take off is covered with snow and free from obstructions.
Step 3
Visualize dropping fluidly and skiing away clean.
Step 4
Drop off of the edge of the natural obstacle. Keep your arms in front of you and lean forward. Do not pop off of the takeoff point.
Step 5
Tuck your body in the air.
Step 6
Extend your legs and shift your weight slightly back as you near the ground.
Step 7
Keep your knees flexed and touch down the tail of your skis.
Step 8
Lean forward and land the middle and front sections of your skis.
Step 9
Ski away clean and tell your friends about your adventure.
Tips and Warnings
- Ski Magazine recommends probing the landing of a large drop to determine the depth of the snow coverage and to ensure that there are no hidden rocks.
- Extreme skiing, such as dropping from natural obstacles, is dangerous and is for experienced skiers only, warns ABC-of-Skiing.com. Start with small drops and work your way up gradually. Wear safety gear including a helmet while performing a ski drop.
Things You'll Need
- Ski gear
- Helmet
Member Comments