Snowplow vs Parallel Turn

The snowplow (wedge) and the parallel turn mark the beginning and the milestone of learning to ski. The snowplow wedges the skis into a 'pizza' for control and stopping at slow speeds; the parallel turn keeps both skis parallel for smoother, faster, more efficient skiing. Progressing from one to the other is the core early journey in skiing.

Aspect	Snowplow (Wedge)	Parallel Turn
Ski position	Wedge (tips together)	Parallel
Speed	Slow, controlled	Faster, efficient
Level	Beginner	Intermediate+
Use	Learning control & stopping	Everyday confident skiing
Effort	More tiring, less efficient	Smoother, more efficient

Use the snowplow if…

You're a beginner finding control
You need to slow down on easy terrain
You're learning to turn and stop

Use parallel turns if…

You're comfortable controlling speed
You want smoother, faster skiing
You're progressing past the basics

Verdict

The snowplow is the essential first technique for control and stopping; the parallel turn is the goal that makes skiing smoother, faster, and more efficient. Every skier starts with the wedge and works toward parallel turns — the transition (sometimes via the stem christie) is the central early milestone in skiing.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a snowplow and a parallel turn?

A snowplow (wedge) angles the ski tips together into a triangle to control speed and stop at slow speeds — the first thing beginners learn. A parallel turn keeps both skis parallel throughout the turn for smoother, faster, more efficient skiing. The snowplow is for learning control; the parallel turn is the more advanced goal.

How do you progress from snowplow to parallel?

By gradually reducing the size of your wedge, shifting weight more decisively to the outside ski, and bringing the skis parallel sooner in the turn, often passing through a transitional 'stem christie' (wedge start, parallel finish). Lessons, terrain choice, and practice help you make the skis match earlier until you're turning fully parallel.

Is the snowplow bad technique?

No — it's an essential foundational skill for control and stopping, and even advanced skiers use a wedge in certain slow, tight, or cautious situations. It only becomes limiting if you never progress beyond it, since parallel turns are more efficient and capable for general skiing. Think of it as the starting point, not a flaw.