Traversing
Beginner
·
1206 riders can do it
Means performing multiple switchbacks and going up the slope sideways, required on a sharp incline.
How do it
Once the slope reaches a certain angle, your climbers will no longer hold you and travelling up straigt will lead to slipping. This means it’s time to move on to traversing, i.e. performing multiple switchbacks and going up the slope sideways.
1.
When moving this way, it’s important to keep your calves slightly back towards the slope, to increase the contact between the climbers and the snow. This is especially true when you cannot perform deep horizontal steps.
2.
It’s also important to keep your shoulders in a horizontal position. To do so, hold your upper pole at about the center, so that your wrist doesn't go higher than your shoulder.
3.
When moving this way, equipment becomes key: the narrower the ski waist and the lower the platform height, the easier it’ll be. Some may find that placing the lower mounting on the heel lifter may also help. Try it for yourself!