| What it is | Hopping skis around to turn |
| Used in | Steep, narrow, or difficult snow |
| Examples | Couloirs, breakable crust |
| Level | Advanced / steep skiing |
A jump turn is a steep-terrain ski technique in which you unweight and hop both skis off the snow to pivot them in the air, landing pointed in the new direction. It lets you change direction in very steep, narrow, or difficult snow (couloirs, breakable crust) where a normal carved or skidded turn isn’t possible, and is a key backcountry and steep-skiing skill.
When turns get hard
A steep-skiing tool for breakable crust and couloirs in backcountry skiing, timed with a strong pole plant.
Frequently asked questions
What is a jump turn?
A jump turn is a way of changing direction on skis by springing both skis off the snow, pivoting them in the air, and landing facing the new way. By doing the turn airborne, you can reverse direction almost in place, which is invaluable on terrain too steep or tight for normal turns.
When do you use a jump turn?
In steep, narrow, or tricky terrain — steep couloirs, tight trees, and difficult snow like breakable crust or heavy crud — where there isn't room or grip to carve or skid a turn. Jump turns let you control descent speed and direction one hop at a time in serious terrain.
Are jump turns difficult?
Yes — they're an advanced skill requiring timing, leg strength, and commitment, since you must unweight, pivot, and land in control on steep ground, often with a strong pole plant for timing and balance. They're typically learned by experienced skiers progressing into steep and backcountry terrain.
Sources
- Steep skiing — The Mountaineers
- Advanced technique — PSIA-AASI