The “Forward Trap”: Why Getting Forward Isn’t Always Better

About this episode

This episode discusses the concept of the 'forward trap' in skiing and offers insights on managing pressure during turns.

Are you actually too far forward when you ski? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas talks with PSIA-AASI Alpine Team member Kevin Jordan about the “forward trap”—and why the common cue to “get forward” can sometimes do more harm than good. Based on his 32 Degrees article, Kevin breaks down the difference between “pushing” and “pulling” in your turns, how overdriving the front of the ski can cause the tails to break away, and what it really means to manage pressure throughout the turn. From practical cues to real-world teaching applications, this conversation gives instructors a clearer, more effective way to help guests create better turn shape and ski performance.

People in this episode

Host: George Thomas

Guest: Kevin Jordan

Topics covered

• skiing technique
• pressure management
• turn shape
• ski performance
• instructional cues

Keywords

• forward trap
• skiing
• turns
• pressure management
• ski performance
• instruction

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: PSIA-AASI

Books & works: 32 Degrees

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