What counts as steep is relative, based on a skier’s experience, ability level, and risk tolerance. Regardless of what it means to you, getting more comfortable on the slopes is an important part of progressing on skis. Tami Razinger, a professional skier and former Jackson Hole Ski Club freeride coach who lives in Jackson, Wyoming, shares how developing athletes can safely progress through steeper terrain.

Before You Go
Before tackling steeper terrain, you want to make sure you have the basics down. “The big thing is being able to control your speed and your turns, and to have a really good center of balance,” Tami explains. “Also, you need to know that you can handle yourself in variable conditions.”
Once you feel confident with turning and speed control, you might feel ready to test yourself. “The people you’re skiing with may give you the hint that you’re ready to progress,” Tami says, “or you may just feel it in your heart and know what your next run should be.”
Conditions
Pay attention to weather and quality of the snow. “Conditions play a huge role in skiing steeps,” Tami notes. “Ice is going to be way scarier than looser snow. And weather conditions like wind and visibility are other variables that may increase the difficulty of a run.”
On the Line
One of the best ways to get through terrain that may feel outside your comfort zone is to take it turn by turn. Setting small goals all the way down the line can help you maintain good form and control your speed.
“If you’re in terrain that scares you, the best thing is to focus on your next turn,” Tami says. “It’s really just putting the majority of your weight on your outside and downhill ski and controlling your speed and your turns using
your pole plants.”
If you feel out of control, there are ways to manage speed. Traversing the slope can help you slow down, find your balance, and prepare for the next turn. You can also manage small, extra-steep sections by side-slipping. “It’s OK to be scared and it’s OK to fall,” Tami says. “We learn from mistakes.”
Working on your mental game also plays a role in progressing through steeper terrain. “Managing your fear is really important,” Tami says. “Go back to the last time you did something hard and were able to overcome your fear. Remember that you can do this.”
At the Bottom
Once you make it down the line, take time to reflect on what went well and what felt challenging for you. This can help you identify what skills you need to keep practicing and how to ski the line better next time.
“It will help you the next time you’re in steep terrain. Reflection can remind you that you’ve done this before,” says Tami.
Leveling Up
Whether you’re moving from the bunny hill to a chair lift, skiing your first black diamond run, or heading into the backcountry, progressing through steep terrain isn’t always a linear process. Take the time you need to hone your form, practice different skills, and build confidence before leveling up.