Learn how to use your legs to push your heels outward in the wedge position, helping you control speed and balance as a beginner skier.
When you’re learning the wedge position, sometimes called the “pizza,” it’s tempting to think that pressing your heels down into the snow will help you control your skis. But that’s actually not the best way to get the shape and control you want. Instead, focus on pushing your heels outward, using the muscles in your legs to create the wedge shape.
What does that mean in practice? Imagine your legs gently pushing your heels apart, as if you’re trying to spread your skis into a “V.” This outward movement comes from your lower legs and ankles, not from pushing your weight straight down. When done right, you’ll feel your knees slightly bent and moving apart, and your skis will naturally form the wedge shape that slows you down and helps you steer.
Why is this important? If you press your heels downward, you’re essentially pushing your weight straight down through your feet, which can make you feel unstable and reduce your ability to control the edges of your skis. Instead, by using your legs to push outward, you engage the right muscles to maintain balance and control speed.
You’ll notice a difference when you get this right. Your wedge will feel more solid and responsive, and you’ll have an easier time managing your speed on gentle slopes. It’s a subtle shift but one that makes a big difference for beginners learning to ski confidently.
Common mistakes include trying to force the wedge by dropping your weight aggressively or locking your knees. Both can make your skis harder to control and tire you out quickly. Keep your knees soft and focus on the outward push from your legs.
If you want to build on this, check out the wedge turn technique next, which uses this same leg movement to help you start turning smoothly. Also, the cue “Keep your weight centered over your skis” pairs well here to maintain balance.
Remember, as Turn Lab points out, this cue is about movement, not just pressure. Push your heels outward with your legs, and you’ll find the wedge position becomes a lot easier to hold and control.
Pushing your heels outward engages your leg muscles to create the wedge shape, which helps control your skis and speed. Pressing downward can cause you to lose balance and reduces the effectiveness of the wedge.
You’ll feel a gentle outward pressure from your lower legs and ankles without your body weight dropping straight down. Your knees should slightly bend and move apart as you push your heels out.
Yes. Using your legs to push your heels outward increases the edge angle of your skis, which provides better friction against the snow and helps you slow down or stop more effectively.
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