Parallel turns are the goal of most beginners: both skis stay side by side and tilt onto matching edges together. They feel smoother, use less energy and open up blue runs. Getting there is a gradual process โ the wedge gets smaller and smaller until one day you notice it has disappeared.
Why parallel turns feel better
In a snowplow, your skis always work slightly against each other. In a parallel turn, both skis tilt the same way and work together, so they glide more and skid less. That makes turns smoother, saves energy and gives you more grip on steeper and firmer slopes. It also lets you ski at a wider range of speeds.
Before you start
- You should be comfortable linking snowplow turns on green runs
- Choose a wide, gentle run with good snow
- Speed helps a little: parallel turns are easier at a moderate pace than when crawling
Step by step
- Traverse across the slope with skis parallel, weight on the downhill ski
- Start a snowplow turn, but as the skis point downhill, slide the inside ski in to match the outside ski
- Repeat, bringing the inside ski in earlier each time
- Eventually, start the turn by tipping both knees and ankles together โ no wedge at all
- Use a pole plant on the inside of each turn to help with timing
The pole plant
A light pole plant helps with rhythm and timing. As you finish one turn, reach forward and touch the tip of your downhill pole in the snow, a little ahead of your boot. Then start the next turn around that point. Keep the movement in your wrist and forearm; there is no need to swing your whole arm or lean on the pole.
Useful drills
- Garlands: on a traverse, make small turns toward the fall line and back, without changing direction
- Hockey-stop practice: helps you feel both edges working together
- Follow the leader: copy a better skier's rhythm and line
Common mistakes
- Stance too narrow: keep feet about hip-width apart, not glued together
- Sitting back when the speed rises: push hands and hips forward
- Skidding with the upper body: let the legs turn under a quiet upper body
When the wedge keeps coming back
It's normal for the wedge to reappear when you feel nervous, on steeper sections or on icy snow. The snowplow is your safety reflex, and that's fine. Go back to slightly easier terrain, build confidence again and keep practicing matching the skis earlier in the turn. Over time, the moments of wedge become shorter until they disappear completely.
What comes next
- Vary the turn size: practice both short and long parallel turns
- Try easy blue runs once your turns feel smooth on greens
- Work on edge control in different snow conditions, from groomed to slightly softer snow
- Take a lesson to refine your technique โ small corrections make a big difference at this stage