Learning to ski starts with getting comfortable gliding, stopping, and turning on gentle slopes before moving to steeper terrain. Mastering the wedge stop and basic turns early gives you the control to enjoy the mountain safely.
What you'll need
- Skis, boots, and poles
- A helmet
- Warm layered clothing and gloves
- Goggles
- A lift ticket or beginner area access
- Optional: a lesson with an instructor
Step by step
- Get fitted and put on your gearWear boots snug but not painful, clip into your bindings on flat ground, and adjust poles to a comfortable height. Properly fitted boots give you the control to steer.
- Practice standing and glidingOn flat ground, get used to balancing, shuffling forward, and gliding a short distance. Keep knees slightly bent and weight centered over the middle of your feet.
- Learn the wedge to stopPoint your ski tips together and push your heels out to make a pizza-slice or wedge shape. Pressing outward in this position slows you down and brings you to a stop.
- Start on a gentle slopeRide the beginner lift or magic carpet up a small hill, then glide down in a wedge to control your speed. A gentle grade lets you build confidence safely.
- Practice basic turnsFrom the wedge, shift your weight onto one ski to turn away from that side. Linking gentle turns lets you control both speed and direction down the slope.
- Fall and get up safelyIf you feel out of control, sit down to the side rather than fighting it. To get up, position skis across the slope below you and push up from the side.
Handy tips
- A lesson or two with a certified instructor speeds up learning and builds safe habits.
- Look ahead where you want to go, not down at your skis, to keep your balance and line.
- Dress in layers you can adjust, since you warm up quickly while moving and cool down on the lift.
Heads up
- Always wear a helmet and stay on runs marked for your ability; skiing above your level or off-marked terrain risks serious injury.
- Follow the mountain's right-of-way rules and be able to stop and avoid others, since the skier ahead of you has the right of way.
FAQ
Should I take a lesson or just try it myself?
A beginner lesson is strongly recommended. Instructors teach safe stopping and turning quickly and help you avoid habits that are hard to unlearn later.
How do I control my speed as a beginner?
Use the wedge or pizza shape by pushing your heels out and tips together. Widening the wedge slows you down, and turning across the slope also reduces speed.
What should I wear the first time?
Warm, waterproof layers, gloves, goggles, and a helmet. Avoid cotton, which stays wet and cold, and choose layers you can add or remove as you warm up.