how to do rails on skis

3 min read 16-01-2025

Skiing rails is a thrilling freestyle trick that takes skill, practice, and the right technique. This comprehensive guide breaks down the process, from beginner-friendly steps to advanced tips for refining your rail skills. Whether you're a seasoned skier looking to add a new trick to your repertoire or a beginner eager to learn, this guide will help you safely and effectively conquer the rails.

Getting Started: Essential Gear and Preparation

Before even thinking about hitting a rail, ensure you have the right equipment and preparation. This is crucial for your safety and success.

1. The Right Gear:

Skis: Shorter, more playful skis are generally better for rails. Look for skis designed for park and pipe riding.
Bindings: Make sure your bindings are properly adjusted for your weight and skill level to prevent accidental release during the trick.
Boots: Comfortable, supportive ski boots are essential. Stiff boots offer better control.
Protective Gear: This is non-negotiable. A helmet is a must, and consider adding wrist guards, knee pads, and hip protectors to minimize the risk of injury.

2. Choosing the Right Rail:

Beginners should start with low, wide, and relatively short rails. Look for rails with a smooth surface and easy approaches and exits. Avoid icy or excessively steep rails until you're more experienced.

3. Practice Makes Perfect:

Before attempting the rail itself, practice your approach and your stance. Get comfortable with the feeling of your skis and your body positioning. A smooth, controlled run-up is key.

Mastering the Basics: Your First Rail Attempt

Once you've got your gear and a suitable rail, let's learn the basics of performing a rail slide.

1. The Approach:

Maintain a controlled speed. Too fast, and you'll lose control. Too slow, and you might not make it onto the rail. Find the sweet spot through practice.

2. The Entry:

Approach the rail at a slight angle, not straight on. As you reach the rail, slightly bend your knees, keeping your weight centered. Maintain a balanced stance.

3. The Slide:

Once on the rail, keep your weight centered and your body relaxed. Use your core muscles to maintain balance and control your speed and direction. Avoid sudden movements.

4. The Exit:

As you approach the end of the rail, prepare to exit by gently shifting your weight to your downhill ski. Push off the rail smoothly and continue your run.

Refining Your Technique: Tips for Advanced Rail Skills

Once you've mastered the basics, you can start working on more advanced rail techniques.

1. Different Rail Styles:

Experiment with different types of rails, including flat rails, down rails, and up rails. Each requires a slightly different approach and technique.

2. Advanced Tricks:

As your skill progresses, you can start experimenting with more advanced tricks like grabs, spins, and switch slides. Always start with simpler variations of these tricks before trying more complex maneuvers.

3. Improving your Stance:

Maintaining a strong, balanced, and centered stance is paramount. Experiment to find the stance that provides you with the most stability and control.

4. Practice Different Approaches:

Vary your approach speed and angle to find what works best for you. A slight change in approach can significantly impact your ability to smoothly land the trick.

Safety First: Avoiding Injuries

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when attempting rail tricks. Always wear a helmet and appropriate protective gear. Start with easier rails and gradually progress to more challenging ones as your skills improve. Don't attempt tricks beyond your current skill level. Have a spotter if possible, especially when starting out. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge of Rail Skiing

Mastering rails on skis takes time, dedication, and practice. But the feeling of successfully sliding a rail is incredibly rewarding. Follow these tips, start slowly, and consistently practice, and you'll be sliding rails like a pro in no time. Remember to have fun and always prioritize safety!