What to Expect from and How to Handle Black Diamond Slopes

 

Terry McEnany, MD, dedicated more than two decades to the medical field, serving as a cardiovascular surgeon. After retiring, Dr. Terry McEnany pursued his passion for skiing by becoming an instructor in Aspen, Colorado.

All ski resorts in North America use a rating system to identify the difficulty level of a slope. There is no standardization in the system, so ratings vary by resort. However, a sign bearing a black diamond will always signify a more challenging terrain, which requires advanced skills. Up to three black diamonds may appear on a sign. Each additional diamond informs you that a trail needs more expertise to descend.

Steep and narrow are common characteristics of a black diamond slope. Additionally, they often contain more hazards, such as rocks, trees, and cliffs and tend to be less groomed. Travel down these trails with caution and use hairpin turns to have full control of your journey. Hairpin turns help with regulating speed because it involves positioning skis parallel to one another and perpendicular to the slope direction, also known as the main fall line of a hill. This slows speed by creating more resistance and allows you time to execute your descent the way you intend.

Preparing Skis for Summer Storage

Terry McEnany, MD, draws on extensive experience as a ski instructor with Ski and Snowboard Schools in Aspen, Colorado. There, Dr. Terry McEnany has advised skiers on topics ranging from safety and technique to off-season storage.

Before putting skis away for the long summer, it is important to thoroughly wash all parts with water and a soft brush. Owners should then fully dry the skis and inspect the level of wax remaining on the base. Some skiers choose not to apply wax if a coating remains on the ski, while others believe that a thorough wax without scrape and polish is important for proper ski protection.

Skiers should also carefully assess for any discoloration or cracking on the bindings. In general, most bindings will need replacement after five seasons or several hundred days of use. Those who set their binding settings at 7 or above may wish to lower the settings for storage to avoid pressure, though experts recommend making a visible note to re-set the number before use the following season. Skiers should then choose a location for storage where skis will not be exposed to heat and where no pressure is applied that might bend the skis themselves.