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Skiing Steeps: Everything You Need to Know
Four Tips from the Pros
Photo: Christian Pondella

Chris Davenport on California's Mount Whitney.

“On truly steep terrain, stand on your uphill ski without leaning into the hill. Put pressure on that ski to begin your turn. Unlike the jumping turns you see in the movies, this type of turn will give you more edge to work with, keep your speed under control, and keep you light on your feet for transitions.” 
—Glen Plake, steep-skiing pioneer

“Practice good slough-management skills. If you’re in the backcountry, climb the line first to get an idea of the snow conditions. Inspect the slope and figure out where the snow you set loose is going to fall—you don’t want it to hit you and knock you over.” 
—Hugo Harrisson, pro skier

“Watch your hand position. If you’re reaching too far forward, you’ll be off-balance and fall. If you’re reaching too far behind your downhill foot, your weight will be centered too far back. Keep your hands right out in front of you.” 
—Kevin Quinn, Alaskan heli-guide

“The natural reaction of the brain and body on a steep slope is to lean uphill into the slope. But when you lean uphill, you reduce your edge grip and control. Commit your upper body down the fall line and stay over your feet.” 
—Erik Roner, pro skier

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