We have all been there. It’s 3:30 PM, everyone’s legs are like jelly, the kids are crashing from their lunchtime hot chocolate sugar high, and you have to navigate that one narrow, scraped-off trail that funnels everyone back to the base area.
It feels less like skiing and more like navigating a chaotic freeway during rush hour. As a mom and instructor, these "zoo runs" are usually the most stressful part of my day. You don't know who is behind you, and watching a teenager straight-line past your six-year-old can make your heart stop.
However, a fantastic technique highlighted by the Avoriaz Alpine Ski School in France offers a practical solution for these exact moments. While the original advice was for bumpy runs, I’ve found it is absolute gold for families navigating crowded cat tracks.
The Strategy: Pick a Lane and Stick to It
The instinct for many intermediate skiers—and what we often teach our kids—is to make big, wide, sweeping turns to control speed. But on a narrow, crowded trail, traversing from one side to the other actually makes you a moving target. You become an unpredictable obstacle for the traffic coming down behind you.
Instead, the instructor from Avoriaz suggests a different approach for these bottlenecks:
- Hug the Side: Choose the far left or far right of the trail. Avoid the frantic middle section.
- Short Radius Checks: Instead of traversing across the hill, keep your skis pointing mostly downhill or slightly across, and use short pivots or sideslips to control speed.
- One Direction: Do your turns or checks in one direction (towards the edge of the run) rather than weaving back into the flow of traffic.
Why This Matters for Parents
I tell my ski school groups to "be predictable." When you stick to the edge and make small adjustments to your speed without crossing the fall line, you allow the faster, more aggressive skiers to pass you safely in the center. It’s defensive skiing at its finest.
It might not be the prettiest skiing you do all day—it's more of a "survival sideslip"—but if it gets everyone down to the car safely without a collision, I call that a win.
Safety Essentials for Crowded Days
Navigating crowds isn't just about technique; it's about protection. Collisions are a real risk on these funnel runs. In our family, helmets are non-negotiable. If you are using old gear or hand-me-downs, make sure the foam hasn't degraded. Here are a few reliable options we trust for keeping noggins safe:
- For the Parents: The Smith Holt Helmet is a fantastic, budget-friendly option that is durable enough to last for seasons.
- For High Impact Protection: If you want top-tier safety tech, look for MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System). The POC Obex MIPS Helmet is lightweight and adjustable, which is great for growing teens.
Planning a Trip?
This tip originated from the instructors in Avoriaz, which is part of the massive Portes du Soleil ski area. If you are looking to test out these techniques on some of the world's most beautiful pistes, you can book your French Alps ski trip and see how the pros handle the holiday crowds.
Stay safe out there, keep your head on a swivel, and remember: it’s okay to take it slow on the home stretch!
Source: Original story via Unofficial Networks.
