Water Sports

How To Cross and Exit The Wakes Like An Expert

Crossing wakes are an important component of smooth efficient slalom skiing.

By Risto

Updated: March 15, 2013

Understanding the difference between building speed and building pressure is an important component of smooth efficient slalom skiing. While the two go hand-in-hand, excessive or uncontrolled line pressure will result in poor body position as you leave the wakes. Let team Goode skier, Nick Parsons, show you how to cross and exit the wakes like an expert.

How To Cross and Exit The Wakes Like An Expert

1. As you begin your cut into the wakes, consider your relationship with the boat a partnership, not a battle. Bill Doster

2. Start easy, building pressure as you approach the first wake. You want your strongest cut to occur two feet before, and through the first wake. Bill Doster

3. Your goal in controlling line pressure is to ensure you cut no harder than the strength of your body position will allow. Never increase your lean at the expense of your position. Bill Doster

4. Mirror your cut’s intensity as you leave the second wake. Ease gradually out of your cut at the same rate you increased it into the wakes. Bill Doster