Keep More Weight on Your Downhill Ski for Stability in Traverses

What This Cue Means

When you’re starting out with traverses and sideslips, one of the trickiest parts is staying balanced and in control on a slope. The cue “keep more weight on your downhill ski” is a simple but effective way to improve your stability during these moves.

When to Use It

What does it mean exactly? When you’re moving sideways across a hill (a traverse) or sliding gently down with both skis sideways (a sideslip), your downhill ski is the one lower on the slope. By shifting more of your body weight onto that ski, you help it bite into the snow better. This gives you a more solid base and reduces the chance of slipping backward or losing balance.

You’ll know you’re doing it right when your downhill ski feels firmly planted and you’re not wobbling or feeling unstable. Your uphill ski still touches the snow but carries less weight, almost like a support or guide. This makes it easier to control your speed and direction.

How to Practice

A common mistake is trying to balance evenly on both skis. While that might feel natural, it often leads to less edge grip and more slipping. Another issue is leaning too far downhill or twisting your body, which can throw off your balance. Instead, keep your upper body facing slightly downhill and focus on gently pressing down on the downhill ski.

Use this cue every time you practice traverses or sideslips on gentle slopes. It’s a foundational body position that helps you build confidence and control. If you want to explore related skills, check out the novice-turn and edging cues, which also focus on weight distribution and balance.

For more guidance on this and other beginner skiing techniques, Turn Lab offers clear instructions and drills that reinforce these key body positions. Taking the time to get comfortable with weight placement early on will pay off as you progress to steeper terrain and more advanced moves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I put more weight on my downhill ski during a traverse?

Putting more weight on your downhill ski increases edge grip and stability, preventing you from sliding backward or losing balance.

How do I know if I’m weighting the downhill ski correctly?

You’ll feel more secure and balanced, with less wobbling. Your downhill ski should feel like it’s carrying most of your weight while the uphill ski lightly supports.

Can I put equal weight on both skis during a sideslip?

For better control, it’s best to keep more weight on the downhill ski. Equal weight can make it harder to maintain edge grip and balance on a slope.