Use the pizza wedge shape to control your speed on skis. Bigger pizza means more braking, smaller pizza means less. Adjust wedge size for smooth, safe skiing.
When you’re just starting out on skis, controlling your speed can feel tricky. That’s where the wedge, or “pizza,” position comes in handy. Imagine your skis as two slices of pizza. When you push the tips of your skis together and spread the tails apart, you create a wedge shape—like a big slice of pizza. This shape helps you slow down by increasing the friction between your skis and the snow.
The cue “Bigger pizza = more braking. Smaller pizza = less braking” is a simple way to remember how to adjust your speed. If you want to slow down more, make your wedge bigger by pushing your ski tails wider apart. If you want to go a little faster or feel less resistance, bring your skis closer together to make a smaller wedge. It’s all about finding the right size for the conditions and your comfort level.
When done right, the wedge feels stable and controlled. You should notice your speed decreasing smoothly without sudden stops or wobbling. Your knees will be slightly bent, and your weight evenly balanced over both skis. The wedge acts like a brake, but it’s gentle and adjustable.
A common mistake is making the wedge too big, which can cause you to feel stiff or lose balance. Another is keeping the skis too close, which reduces braking and can lead to going faster than you want. Remember, the wedge isn’t just about slowing down—it’s also about feeling secure while you get used to moving on skis.
This cue ties directly into the beginner wedge position skill, which you can explore further on the beginner wedge position page. If you’re ready to build on this, check out related cues like “Weight Forward” and “Look Ahead” to improve your overall control and confidence.
Turn Lab highlights this pizza analogy as a straightforward mental tool to help beginners get comfortable with speed control. Keep practicing adjusting your wedge size, and you’ll find it easier to handle different slopes and conditions without stress.
'Bigger pizza' means spreading your skis wider apart in a wedge shape, which increases friction and slows you down.
If you're stopping too quickly or feeling unstable, your wedge might be too big. If you’re going too fast or struggling to slow down, try making your wedge bigger.
The wedge is best for gentle slopes and beginner terrain. On steeper slopes, other techniques are safer and more effective.
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