skiing hard snow/ice

Question
Hi, I just brand new 2008 K2 recons "in  plastic" I skied on them about 8 times. Did not do any tuning, since they were new. I had very good impression skiing off piste in reasonable snow. My quastion is about hard snow/ice on groomers. I think I have never slipped that much on any skis in my life. I there a different technique for mid fat (78mm) or what? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Endel and thanks for the question,

Skis are a little like cars when they come off the production line in that they do need a little work to get them to optimal working condition. Hence why you probably had a few problems on the icier surfaces. Get a tune up at your ski shop [unless you can do it yourself] before you head out next. Generally skis need tuning after every 2-4 days of sking if the conditions are good. In icier snow you will benefit from daily tuning [edges at least].

In general sking ice is about balance and a smooth ski style. Just like ice skating - any extra moving you do results in the edges releasing and a sliding effect. Think about trying to engage the edges into the ice and keeping them in there. If you change your stance in the slightest way - the edges will release and you will need to reset them into the ice.

However keeping the edges in the ice can be very difficult to master especially if you dont come across it very often. So the easiest way to cope is to just think about trying to keep your skiing style relaxed and smooth - not jerky or too fast.

Keep working from the knees - the further up the hill they point - the more edge you will engage. Being able to roll your knees from left to right with the shortest time on a flat foot the easier it can be to maintain control - but its not easy to do. Practice the technique on better snow days. If you can get the feel for it on good snow - doing it on ice will be easier.

Reduce the amount you rise on the start of the turn - try keeping your head at the same height. Poles move only slightly to decrease the amount of body movement you do.

Hope that helps

lisa