Pointers on Powder Skiing Powder is freshly fallen snow. It is dry, light and fluffy. Powder skiing, for many skiers, is the best skiing experience. Powder skiing is different and more challenging than skiing in prepared or compact slopes. It requires refined skiing skills and techniques. For instance, soft turns are very important in powder skiing as well as equal distribution of weight on the skis. For skiers who are learning how to ski on powder, here are some tips: To start, maintain a balanced posture with your feet apart at shoulder width. Slightly bend down your hips, knees and ankles toward the snow. Distribute your weight evenly on your skis by leaning a little forward into your ski boots. Position your hips directly above the boots’ center. To make a turn, steer both your feet in whichever direction you are turning, flex your lower body down toward your skis, weighing them down into the snow as you turn. Set your downhill pole in front of you and move around it. While skiing, your upper body should be facing downhill remaining stable as your lower body turns. At the end of every turn, pull your hips, knees and ankles up to shift the weight off the skis. When you do so, it will lift your skis slightly so you can make the next turn easily. Skiers often lean back when powder skiing, which is actually a mistake because the legs tire easily this way. However, one has to be careful not to lean the lower leg too forward because the skis will most likely go deep in the snow. To further prevent your skis from diving into snow or powder, make sure your ski boot matches well with your ski binding, which ideally should be adjustable. In addition, do not forget to wax your skis adequately and properly. Another common challenge in powder skiing is turning, which can result from using inappropriate ski equipment. Make sure that your skis are not too long or too stiff for you. Your skill level and weight will have some bearing in your choice of ski length. The salesperson will also be able to give you advice on the most suitable ski length for you and for powder skiing. Ultimately, choose what feels right. For those perfecting their powder skiing skills, there are plenty of drills and exercises to help you improve from keeping your balance to carving turns confidently. Powder skiing may be demanding but with practice, it promises to be a thrilling ride.