STEP 1: DROP AND POP
As with a straight air, you need to know the required amount of pop to get off the lip in order to hit the tranny (where the wall transitions from flat to vertical). Practice some straight airs to get a feel for the pipe. (See "Get Schooled" from the September 2005 issue.)
STEP 2: KEEP IT SMOOTH
The initiation of this trick is very subtle, so don't make any quick or jerky moves. As you ride up the wall, shift your weight to your uphill ski and get centered over it. The rotation happens in one fluid movement.
STEP 3: SPIN UP THE PIPE
When you get to the top of the lip, initiate the spin by twisting your torso and looking toward your uphill shoulder. Then, find the floor of the pipe and fix your gaze on it. Stay compact throughout the entire rotation.
STEP 4: GRAB, LAND, SKI AWAY
A "critical grab," like I'm doing here, is one of the easiest.Once you've cleared the lip and begun to spin, grab the inside edge of your downhill ski, beneath your boot. Grabbing not only looks cool, but it keeps you balanced by controlling your flailing arms. Hold the grab through the rotation.
MARCH/APRIL 2006
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