Practice controlling your sideslip speed by adjusting edge angle using ankle movements. Ideal for improving traverses and sideslips on green and blue groomed.
The Edge Release Drill is a practical way to get a feel for how your ankle movements control the edge angle of your skis, which in turn governs your sideslip speed. This drill is especially useful if you want to improve your traversing and sideslipping on moderate slopes, helping you develop smooth, controlled movements.
Start by choosing a moderate groomed slope, either green or blue, with a gentle fall line. Begin skiing across the slope, perpendicular to the fall line, so your skis are sliding sideways rather than straight downhill. Your goal is to control how fast you slide by adjusting your edges.
Here’s the step-by-step:
Set your edges: Roll your ankles uphill to engage the edges of your skis firmly. This should bring you to a stop or near stop on the slope. Focus on feeling the grip under your skis—your ankles are the key drivers here.
Release edges slowly: Gradually flatten your ankles, reducing the edge angle. This releases the grip and allows your skis to start slipping sideways. The trick is to do this slowly and smoothly, so you don’t suddenly lose control.
Sideslip sideways: Let your skis slip sideways at a controlled, slow speed. Your body should stay balanced and quiet, with your weight centered over your skis.
Re-edge to stop: When you want to stop the slip, roll your ankles back uphill to re-engage the edges.
Vary slip speed: Practice adjusting how much you flatten your ankles to control the speed of your sideslip. Small ankle movements make a big difference.
Try to do 10 to 15 repetitions, focusing on smooth transitions between edging and releasing. Pay attention to how your ankles feel as you roll them uphill and flatten them. Avoid stiffening your legs or twisting your upper body; keep your movements subtle and controlled.
Common mistakes include using too much upper body movement or rushing the edge release, which can cause sudden slips or loss of balance. Remember, this drill is about finesse and feel.
Once you’re comfortable, you can link this skill to other drills that focus on traversing and edge control to build a solid foundation. For more on traversing, check out the Traverse Basics drill page.
This drill is a straightforward way to build confidence in controlling your skis on moderate slopes, and Turn Lab’s method breaks down the ankle mechanics clearly so you can practice effectively.
Controlling edge release lets you regulate your sideslip speed, which is essential for maintaining balance and control while traversing slopes.
A moderate slope on groomed green or blue terrain works best—steep enough to feel the sideslip but not so steep that control becomes difficult.
Aim for 10 to 15 controlled sideslips per session, focusing on smooth ankle movements and consistent edge control.
Turn Lab organizes mental cues, drills, and progression milestones into a structured path from beginner to expert. Free for all beginner skills.
Download Free for iPhone