Snow Reality!
Although our dreams are filled with deep powder snow, the reality is that most of the time we are faced with having to cope with more difficult snow. These generally fall into two categories: heavy, sticky snow a.k.a. as CRUD, and breakable crust. So let's look at a technique that will help you deal with these types of snow conditions.
1000-steps
turn:This technique is a good to practice from time to time as it promotes independent leg action and encourages a dynamic stance. Start on a traverse and control your speed by stepping up the slope away from the fall line. As your speed decreases, start to step around the turn with a succession of tiny steps. In most conditions I find it best to lift the toe of each ski as I step. Continue stepping around the turn until your speed decreases again. Although this technique is simple you do need to practice to be able to perform it when it really counts.
So when you are faced with the dreaded breakable crust, this is a technique worth trying. You may actually have to kick the toe of the ski clear of the crust at every step of the turn along with a fair degree of commitment, but trust me it will work.
So get out there and practice this one on the groomed, packed powder runs . . . build up your confidence level then ATTACK the crud and be a crud monster!
And remember that tune by Tom Cochrane, "Life is a ski slope! I'm gonna ride it all day long!" In closing I send you all best wishes for a great 1997/98 ski season and here in Jasper, Alta., we are humming that great tune from The Sound of Music, The Hills are alive with the sound of GROOMERS!
Cheers!
Michael
(The Ski Bum)
