Term
Skidding within a Turn
GLOSSARY
Skidding is when the board slides sideways during part of a turn, leaving a wider track than a clean carve. It is used deliberately to control speed or line.
Context and distinction
Skidding is not always wrong — but too much pivot can spoil a task that asks for a carve.
Explore the glossary →HOW TO DO IT
Skidding within a Turn
Skidding is deliberate or unintended lateral movement of the board across the snow. It can control speed and direction; it becomes an error only relative to the requested outcome.
Preparation and setting
Reliable sideslip and stop.
Execution / practice sequence
- Choose a skidded-turn task.
- Release enough edge resistance to guide the board.
- Blend pivot with edging to control the slide.
- Round the turn instead of abruptly throwing the tail.
- Finish with controlled speed and prepare the next turn.
How to learn / practise
Compare one rounded skidded arc with one shallow carved arc. Describe the difference in trace and sensation rather than ranking them universally.
Errors and corrections
Only braking at the final instant: develop earlier shaping. Calling every skid a failed carve: restate the task. Tail flicks without direction control: shorten the exercise.
Observable checks
The rider controls the amount of lateral displacement and can explain its purpose.
SOURCE-BACKED DETAIL
Characteristics
- Turn outcome
- skidded
01
editorial review notes
Excess pivot can disrupt a requested carved task; skidding is not universally incorrect.