Sideslipping: Your Go-To Move for Steep Slopes

What This Cue Means

Sideslipping is one of those foundational moves that every skier should have in their toolbox, especially when you’re just starting out. Think of it as your safety valve on slopes that feel a bit too steep or tricky to turn down. Instead of trying to carve a turn and risk losing control, you simply let your skis slide sideways down the hill, controlling your speed by adjusting how much edge you put into the snow.

When you sideslip, your skis are more or less perpendicular to the fall line—the path gravity naturally wants to pull you down. This position slows your descent because your edges dig into the snow, letting you slide gently rather than race downhill. It’s a controlled, deliberate movement that feels different from turning. Instead of twisting your body and skis, you keep them fairly straight across the hill, focusing on balance and edge pressure.

When to Use It

You’ll want to use sideslipping when the slope is too steep for safe turning or when the snow conditions make turning unreliable—like on icy patches or narrow trails. It’s also handy if you need to cross a slope sideways without picking up speed.

When done right, sideslipping feels smooth and steady. You’ll notice your skis gliding evenly, with no sudden slips or catches. Your weight should be balanced over both skis, and your knees slightly bent to absorb any bumps. If you find yourself sliding too fast or losing control, you’re probably not applying enough edge or your weight might be uneven.

How to Practice

A common mistake is letting your skis point downhill too much, which turns the sideslip into an uncontrolled slide. Another is leaning back, which reduces edge contact and makes it harder to control your speed. Keep your weight centered and your skis angled across the hill.

If you want to build on this, check out the Traverse & Sideslip skill page for more tips and drills. Also, practicing the Traverse cue will help you get comfortable moving sideways on gentle slopes, setting you up nicely for sideslipping.

Sideslipping might seem simple, but it’s a practical skill that can save you from tricky situations on the mountain. Turn Lab emphasizes it as a reliable escape route—something every skier should feel confident using.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is sideslipping?

Sideslipping means sliding down the slope with your skis roughly perpendicular to the fall line, letting you control your speed and direction without turning.

When should I use sideslipping instead of turning?

Use sideslipping when the slope is too steep or icy to make controlled turns safely, or when you need to descend in a narrow or tricky spot.

How do I know if I’m sideslipping correctly?

You’ll feel your skis sliding smoothly across the snow with even pressure on both edges, allowing you to control your speed without losing balance or sliding out.