10 tips for off-piste skiing

Getting off the slopes and into the untracked terrain provides a big dose of adrenaline. While off-piste skiing offers a thrilling experience, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. So let's share ten tips for off-piste skiing!

The art of off-piste skiing

One thing that attracts many people to off-piste skiing is that no two runs are the same. And there is a very special feeling that arises when you throw yourself into the deep powder snow and fly through the untouched terrain.

When you visit us at Stöten in Sälen, you'll find plenty of exciting challenges in our Ski routes. Great off-piste slopes located in the middle of the regular lift system, offering skiing with nature's own obstacles!

As no two rides are the same, it is important to be able to adapt your ride to the prevailing conditions. To do this, you can use the tips below:

Find the right position

Finding the right position on your skis is essential when you go off-piste. The starting point should always be to try to stand in the centre of the skis, i.e. with the centre of gravity right above your feet.

However, as you know, the terrain can vary, which means that you may sometimes need to deviate from the ideal position and lean back slightly. However, it is important not to lean back too much, as your thighs risk becoming stiff and the ends of the skis can dig into the snow and become more difficult to get into the turn.

In other words, if you need to lean back, you should do so with restraint and only for a short period!

Get up to speed

As well as finding the right position, it's important to get up to speed early and maintain it throughout the ride. If you don't get enough speed and the snow is very deep, you risk getting stuck. To make sure you don't get stuck, make sure you start the run in the fall line.

Get into the rhythm

Once you're up to speed, it's time to start with the turns. Start with some more intense turns and then take them out more and more. Try to get into the rhythm and avoid making too short turns once you've got the speed and rhythm!

Use arms and rods

Many people forget to use their arms and poles to find their rhythm and balance. So try to remember this, but make sure you never stick your pole into the ground and lean on it. Instead, let it drag in the snow.

Plan your journey

Now things really start to happen. Once you've found your rhythm, it's important to keep your eyes up and try to plan your ride. Decide where to make the next turns and pay attention to the terrain. This will increase your chances of maintaining your speed and rhythm throughout the ride!

Other things to consider

In addition to the above tips, you may also want to consider the following:

Dress appropriately

Here it is important to adapt the clothing to the weather, which is best done by the so-called layer-on-layer principle. You can read more about this in our previous article "How to choose the right clothes for skiing".

Pack avalanche equipment

In addition to suitable clothing, it is important to bring an avalanche transceiver and a probe, which will allow your companions to find you in case of an accident. You may also want to bring a small shovel, an ABS backpack and a map and compass.

Always check the weather and avalanche risks

Before venturing into untracked terrain, always check that the weather conditions are favourable and that there are no avalanche hazards.

Never travel alone

If you get injured, buried under the snow or are otherwise unable to descend on your own, having a companion nearby can be vital. That's why you should never go alone.

Set up a plan

It is always a good idea to make a plan that includes where to go and what to do in case of an accident.

We hope you now have plenty of tips to help you master off-piste skiing. Why not try them out during a stay with us at Stöten in Sälen? Take a look our offers or book a trip for an amazing experience - see you on the slopes!