The ankle joint

[JimG.]

I hear ya' about using the AT boots in walk-mode...!
One very quickly know when you've slipped back a wee bit... Did my skiing good.


Steve

Isn't it amazing? I can't think of a sport where small changes in posture and stance make for such a difference in performance. The only one I can think of that comes close would be ice hockey.

[Ryan]

Good drill Ryan! This is a great exercise for advanced/expert skiers. Know why? Because they can listen to this, which is very complicated, and process in their mind what to do with their edges, then do it. But only because they already have the skills to do so. Try this with a class of strong intermediates and you'll get yard sales and mass confusion. But I think you agree this is not an intermediate drill.

THIS IS NOT AN INTERMEDIATE DRILL!!! You are very right. This is a drill that we do from time to time in an instructor clinic. It is a blast though and fantastic for working on balance. Now if you want to take this one to the next level, take it to steep groomed terrain and do the same progression with jump turns. Let me just say this as a waiver. I am not responsible for anyone hurting themselves when they try to go outside edge to outside in a jump turn.

[JimG.]

THIS IS NOT AN INTERMEDIATE DRILL!!! You are very right. This is a drill that we do from time to time in an instructor clinic. It is a blast though and fantastic for working on balance. Now if you want to take this one to the next level, take it to steep groomed terrain and do the same progression with jump turns. Let me just say this as a waiver. I am not responsible for anyone hurting themselves when they try to go outside edge to outside in a jump turn.

But you can severely de-tune the drill to make it intermediate friendly. It's funny because as much as this is a drill for experts, intermediates need to work on these skills even more.

Oh, and when I want to take your drill to the next level, I leave my poles at the top of the hill along with one ski!

[Chromer]

Pansies. Take away their heelpieces and unlock their cuffs...

(Just kidding, just kidding...)

[Bernard]

Hello everyone

First time here. Just wish to say that I moved from Langes comp 130 to Dalebello's diablos that I ski in (soft) carve mode. I immediately felt more mobile and more agile on the Dalbello's despite having a looser connection between boot and ski. What I discovered over time is that being able to flex and extend the ankle much more than in the Langes has provided me with much more natural body posture and better wellbeing.

Bernard
National ski coach
Val d'Isere France

[JimG.]

The ankle joint is so key...I seem to find myself keeping my boot cuffs looser and looser every season. As long as the lateral support is firm, you can't have enough fore and aft flex IMO.