Thousands of tourists come in droves to experience Japan’s waist-deep powder skiing. While many describe it as the most exalted experience in skiing, powder skiing demands a set of techniques that is different from other kinds of skiing.
With its very cold weather, Hokkaido is a popular ski destination, not only in Japan, but in the world. Its reliable winter weather guarantees as much as 100 days of snow during winter. Many ski enthusiasts return year after year, and not all of them are experts in this snow sports. In fact, many tourists want to try powder skiing for the first time.
Even if this is the first time you will learn to powder ski, these tips will help you shape up in no time. Before you know it, you are already powder skiing like a pro.
Choose the proper equipment
If this is your first time to powder ski, getting the right equipment can be a good start. While this can never be a substitute to good technique, longer, wider, and softer skis will help you float better on waist-deep snow. Having the right gear will give you that boost to jumpstart your skiing experience.
Experts say that longer, wider, and softer skis are easier to command than a pair of heavy, stiff front-side skis.
Narrow your stance
Almost all experts are unanimous on this one. Keeping one’s stance narrower in deep powder will usually help in making the legs work better. Also, a narrower stance will keep the skis at an ideal distance with each other.
So, if it is your turn to glide on that waist-deep powder snow, be sure to keep your legs at a comfortable distance. Not doing so could lead you to lose your balance and fall.
Avoid sudden movements
Since you are floating on waist-deep powder, soft and subtle movements are ideal. Trying to turn the ski quickly will probably end in a disaster. Since you are on softer snow, be patient as it will take the skis longer to respond. Experts suggest not to work too hard on steering your skis.
Make small movements, instead of big ones. When trying to make a turn, do it at a pace where you will not lose your balance and concentration.
Don’t lean back too much
This is another tip experts all agree on. If you want to stay afloat on powder snow, do not lean back too much, as this will compromise your balance and your ability to turn.
Experts suggest trying to pull your toes towards you to see if you are leaning back too much. When it seems that you are not able to lift your toes towards you, chances are you are excessively leaning back. Just make sure to fix your posture and enjoy the ride.
Manage speed
Speed lets your skis float to the powdery surface. Embracing speed can help you find your rhythm. Experts also said that embracing speed can help you make turns much easier. However, make sure that you are on a comfortable speed so as to retain your balance and focus.
By following these simple tips, you can become a pro powder skier in no time. Much like any skill, this requires a lot of practice so make sure to put in the time and, above all, enjoy yourself.
