Skiing is a skill that needs to be learnt. Only those who have mastered the right technique can experience the feeling of freedom when skiing. With the right equipment, some things are simply easier to do. However, to ensure that your skiing dream does not become a nightmare, there are a few rules to follow on the slopes. Here you will find valuable tips on how to stand better on skis, how to get the most out of your equipment and how to stay safe on the slopes.
Anyone who hasn't been skiing for a while knows the feeling of insecurity before tackling the first steep slope. You can regain your confidence by remembering the most important basics and warming up on flat, wide slopes. A solid basic position is essential for staying safe on the slopes: stand with your feet hip-width apart and keep your feet, knees and hips slightly bent so that you can react flexibly to uneven terrain at any time. Avoid leaning back too far, as this makes it more difficult to control the skis. Instead, you should shift your weight slightly forward so that you can actively guide the ski. The upper body should be slightly inclined sideways towards the valley, hips and knees towards the mountain. Keep your arms loosely bent beside your upper body and your body slightly tense, but not cramped.
Carving requires a certain speed; the centrifugal force and compensating movements take care of the rest. Wide turns also require attention to what is happening behind you, because if you cut across a larger area of the piste, you are likely to end up in the path of others. But back to the technique: your centre of gravity should be stably positioned over the centre of the ski and your track should be hip-width. The turn is initiated in the legs by loading the inside edge of the outside ski. The knee, hip and centre of gravity move towards the middle of the turn. Caution: don't twist your upper body! The centrifugal force pushes you firmly into the turn. To compensate for the tilt, you push your hips sideways towards the slope. To do this, it's best to push your pelvis slightly backwards to counteract the over-twisting of the skis. It actually looks like a motorcyclist leaning into a curve.
Choosing the right equipment is essential for your skiing experience. There are different types of skis, each offering different advantages depending on your style and ability.Carving skis are suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers, as they are easier to control and offer the best skiing performance on prepared slopes. But there are differences here too:
- Slalom carver
If you love short turns and spend the day on the slopes, a slalom carver is the perfect choice for you. You can recognise a slalom carver by its relatively short length. This makes it possible to turn in a small radius, but it also requires a little experience. These skis are not designed for long turns or high speeds. - Race carver
If you love long turns at high speeds, you should go for race carvers. These skis are longer and slightly wider than slalom carvers. - Sport carvers
Sport carvers are a compromise for both types of skiing. You can use them to take long or short turns on the slopes. However, this all-round ski has its limits in both categories. - Freestyle skis
If you love rails or kickers and would rather spend the whole day in the fun park, then you are clearly a freestyle skier. These are usually available as twintips, i.e. bent up at the back and front. This means you can also ride or land backwards (switch). These models are usually shorter and therefore make it easier to turn in the air. - Freeride & all-mountain skis
If the piste isn't enough for you, you'll quickly find yourself in deep snow. Whether you're a freeride purist or an adventurer who loves to explore the whole mountain, the models for freeriders and all-mountain skiers are characterised by their width. The larger contact surface provides lift in loose snow.
Warm and functional clothing, adequate sun protection and a helmet are standard equipment. A ski helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious head injuries and should be a matter of course for all skiers, from beginners to pros. Many models can be adjusted using dials, but the basic size (S, M, L or XL) must be correct. By the way, ski helmets have a lifespan of three to five years with normal use. After a crash, they should be replaced immediately.
If you are out and about in the terrain, a first-aid kit, avalanche transceiver equipment and avalanche backpack are essential. Ski boots should fit snugly around your feet without pinching, so that you retain optimal control over your skis. Make sure that the binding is correctly adjusted – this not only ensures a better fit, but also safety in the event of a fall. You can have them adjusted or checked by a SPORT 2000 dealer. Ski poles help you to maintain your balance and initiate turns. They must be adjusted to your height: your arms should be at a 90-degree angle when you hold them in your hands. For freestylers or high-speed enthusiasts, we also recommend wearing a back protector.
To ensure safe skiing fun, it is important not only to have the right technique but also to follow a few rules of conduct. These rules, developed by the Fédération Internationale de Ski (FIS), should be observed by every skier:
- Consideration for others: Always ski in such a way that you do not endanger anyone. Pay particular attention to slower or unsafe skiers.
- Controlling speed: Adjust your speed and skiing/riding to the terrain, visibility and ability.
- Overtaking: Only overtake if you leave enough space between you and the skier in front. Remember that skiers ahead have the right of way!
- Stopping: Never stop in the middle of the slope in a narrow place or behind a blind crest.
- Entering and starting: Before you start or join the slope, make sure that there are no other skiers coming from above.
- Respect the signs: respect the signs and markings on the slopes; they give you important information about danger spots or closed areas.
