Snowplow Technique of Skiing: The Foundation Every Skier Must Master
By Kuldeep Bangari
Skiing & Snowboarding Instructor at Auli Skiing School
The snowplow technique—also known as the wedge—is the first and most important skill in alpine skiing. It gives beginners immediate control over speed, balance, and direction. Skip mastering snowplow, and everything ahead becomes harder. Learn it right, and progression becomes smooth and safe.
What Is the Snowplow Technique?
In snowplow, the ski tips come closer together while the tails spread outward, forming a “V” shape. The inside edges of the skis grip the snow, creating friction that naturally slows the skier and allows controlled turns.
This technique is the backbone of:
Speed control
Turning initiation
Stopping safely
Building confidence on slopes
Body Position in Snowplow
In the snowplow position, the ski tips are closer together while the tails are wider, forming a V-shape. This allows the inside edges of the skis to grip the snow and naturally control speed. Unlike braking with force, snowplow teaches skiers how to manage speed calmly, which is essential for safe and confident skiing.
A correct snowplow starts with proper posture. The knees remain soft and slightly bent, pressing gently inward, while the upper body stays relaxed and facing downhill. Weight should stay centered over the boots—not leaning back. When the body is balanced, the skis respond smoothly instead of fighting the snow.
Correct posture makes or breaks this technique.
Lower Body
Knees bent and gently pushed inward
Ankles flexed, pressing shins against boots
Weight centered—not sitting back
Upper Body
Upright stance
Hands forward and wide, holding poles lightly
Shoulders relaxed and facing downhill
A stable stance keeps skis working efficiently and prevents loss of balance.
How to Execute the Snowplow
Stand with skis parallel
Push heels outward while keeping ski tips closer
Apply gentle pressure on inside edges
Maintain even weight on both skis
Many skiers struggle because they rush this stage. Common errors include sitting back, staring at the skis, or forcing the legs apart. These habits reduce control and slow progression. A clean, relaxed snowplow builds confidence faster than any shortcut.
The wider the wedge, the more braking power you get.
Snowplow for Speed Control
Snowplow is your natural brake on the mountain.
Small wedge = slow glide
Wide wedge = strong braking
Edge pressure determines stopping power
Instead of panicking, trust the snowplow. It responds instantly when done correctly.
Snowplow Turning Technique
Snowplow isn’t just for stopping—it’s for turning.
To Turn Left
Increase pressure on the right ski
Right ski slows more, causing direction change
To Turn Right
Increase pressure on the left ski
This skill teaches beginners how weight transfer controls direction—essential for parallel skiing later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Leaning backward (kills control)
Locking knees
Looking at skis instead of downhill
Overusing upper body rotation
Fix these early, or they become bad habits.
Progression Beyond Snowplow
Snowplow leads directly to:
Snowplow turns
Wedge christie
Parallel turns
Every advanced skier you admire started right here.
Final Thoughts
The snowplow technique is not “basic”—it is foundational. At Auli Skiing School, we focus on building this skill correctly so skiers become confident, controlled, and ready for real mountain skiing.
From a strong snowplow, skiers smoothly progress toward parallel skiing. As an instructor, I always emphasize mastering this technique first—because solid basics create confident skiers who enjoy the mountain, not fear it.
Master the snowplow, and the mountain stops being intimidating—it becomes yours.
– Thanks