How to Fix Wedge Christie for Smoother Parallel Turns

Understanding the Wedge Christie and Why It Needs Fixing

The wedge Christie is a classic beginner turn where one ski stays in a wedge (or snowplow) position while the other turns parallel. It’s a useful stepping stone but can slow you down and limit control once you’re ready to ski more efficiently. Fixing the wedge Christie means learning to bring both skis closer together and turning them in unison.

How to Fix Your Wedge Christie in 5 Steps

1. Check Your Stance and Balance

Start by standing with your skis parallel and shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly and keep your weight centered over the middle of your skis. Avoid leaning back or too far forward. This balanced stance sets the foundation for better turns.

2. Practice Sliding Both Skis Parallel

On gentle terrain, push off and try sliding both skis straight and parallel. This helps you get comfortable with keeping your skis together instead of naturally falling into a wedge shape.

3. Start Small Turns with Both Skis Parallel

Begin making gentle turns by steering both skis at the same time. Focus on rolling your ankles and knees to tip the skis onto their edges, rather than relying on the wedge to slow down.

4. Gradually Narrow Your Wedge

If you still feel the need to wedge, try narrowing it bit by bit. Bring your skis closer together as you turn until you can make the turn with minimal or no wedge.

5. Use a Mental Cue: “Skis Together, Turn Together”

Remind yourself that both skis should move as one unit. This helps avoid the common habit of letting one ski stay in wedge while the other turns.

Additional Tips

• Keep your upper body facing downhill and quiet; avoid twisting your torso.
• Transfer your weight smoothly from the uphill to the downhill ski during turns.
• Use poles lightly to help with rhythm but don’t rely on them for balance.
• If you want more drills and video guides, check out Turn Lab’s beginner parallel skiing resources.

Fixing the wedge Christie takes time and patience. Focus on small improvements each run, and you’ll find your turns becoming smoother and more efficient without the wedge holding you back.

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For more on progressing from wedge turns, see Parallel Turns Basics and Edge Control Drills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my wedge Christie feel unstable?

Instability often comes from uneven weight distribution or not committing enough to the downhill ski. Focus on balanced pressure and keeping your upper body quiet.

How can I make my parallel turns smoother after fixing wedge Christie?

Practice linking short, controlled turns while keeping your skis closer together. Use drills that emphasize edging and weight transfer to build smoothness.

Is it normal to revert to wedge turns when tired?

Yes, it’s common. Wedge turns feel safer when you’re tired or on steeper terrain. Keep practicing parallel drills regularly to build muscle memory and confidence.