Skiing “canted” slopes

A “canted” ski slope refers to the sideways tilt of a ski slope, which can affect the skier's balance and edge control when it’s been skied on.The opposite is obviously a much easier ski run, where the fall-line always remains parallel to the edges of the trail.  

This kind of slope is another favorite of mine and I use it to hone my skiing skills as it presents a serious challenge in overcoming fear of free-fall in executing every other turn on the “wrong side of the slope”. 

Canted slopes can often be found under lift towers that hug a slope across its fall line and are often lined up with trees on either sides (uphill and downhill) making the turn into the downhill tree much more spookier and, let’s admit it, dangerous. 

I like to create long radius turns against the downhill edge, going back up towards the uphill side, and short radius ones on the more frightening side facing downhill plus, most often than not trees, that are always very limited in space. 

I found that practice to be great “cardio” when executed non-stop from top to bottom and an exercise that requires absolute concentration and sharp reflexes. Also, if you’re a “right foot skier” and are in a skier’s right canted slope, it forces you to work fast and effectively on your left foot. 

Of course, the steeper the canted slope, the harder it gets. I must admit that over the years and with lots of practice and a few mishaps, I’ve become much better at it and the enjoyment I get from it is totally worth it!