Point Your Skis Straight Ahead When Loading and Unloading

What This Cue Means

When you’re getting on or off the chairlift, one of the simplest but most important things you can do is keep your skis pointed straight ahead. This means your skis should be parallel and facing directly down the slope, not angled inward or outward. The reason is straightforward: crossed ski tips are a common cause of falls during these moments.

When to Use It

Imagine you’re sitting on the chair, and as you prepare to unload, your skis start to drift toward each other. The tips cross, and suddenly one ski catches on the snow or the other ski. That little snag can throw off your balance, causing you to fall or stumble right at the unloading zone. It’s frustrating and can shake your confidence, especially when you’re new to the chairlift.

By focusing on pointing your skis straight ahead, you create a stable base. Your weight stays centered over your skis, making it easier to slide smoothly off the chair and onto the snow. It feels more controlled, like you have a clear path forward without anything getting in the way. This body position cue is a small adjustment but pays off big in safety and comfort.

How to Practice

A common mistake is to let your skis splay out or angle inward as you approach the lift. Sometimes this happens because you’re nervous or trying to turn too early. Instead, think of your skis as train tracks—parallel and ready to roll straight ahead. That mental image can help you keep the right position.

If you want to get better at this, practice standing still on a gentle slope with your skis parallel and pointed straight. Feel how your weight balances evenly and how your skis glide smoothly when you move forward. When you’re ready to approach the chairlift, bring that same feeling with you.

For more tips on chairlift skills, check out the novice-chairlift skill page. You might also find it helpful to review cues like “Keep your weight centered over your skis” and “Use your poles to steady yourself while loading.” Remember, Turn Lab highlights how these simple body position cues build a solid foundation for confident skiing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to keep skis pointed straight on the chairlift?

Pointing your skis straight helps maintain stability and prevents the tips from crossing, which can easily cause you to lose balance and fall.

What happens if my skis cross during loading or unloading?

Crossed ski tips can catch on the snow or each other, making you lose balance and increasing the risk of falling or dropping your poles.

How can I practice pointing my skis straight before getting on the chairlift?

Try standing still on a gentle slope with your skis parallel and pointed forward, focusing on keeping your weight centered and your skis aligned before approaching the lift.