Before you can learn how to ski, you’ve got to learn how to get to the top of the mountain. While the widespread use of chair lifts has made this a lot easier, many mountains still use rope tows, especially on beginner areas. They may look like simple contraptions, but for many new skiers, these rope tows are difficult to master. Here are some tips to help you use that tow like a pro.

The basic principle of the rope tow is a pulley system. It is usually comprised of a very long rope, an engine and pulleys. The rope is fed through the system, you grab on and hopefully get pulled to the top. However, if you are just starting out, this is a very frustrating lift to use and falling is very common.

1. Learn to gauge the timing of the rope tow.

Before you immediately jump on the tow lift, take a little time to stand back and watch other people. See how they time grabbing the rope and the intervals it takes to catch on. This is perhaps the hardest part of using a rope tow, so it is a good idea to make sure you have a good idea of the timing before you actually use the tow.

2. Make sure your skis or board are secure.

You’ll be using your skis or snowboard to get up the hill or mountain on the rope tow and if they are not secure, you may lose one. Essentially, you’ll be sliding up the hill instead of down, so take the time to check your bindings and make sure that they are correctly fastened. It’s pretty annoying to lose one while you’re on the tow, and it may mean having to go back to the bottom to retrieve your ski or board, and then you’ll have to go through the whole process again.

3. Wear gloves.

Row tows can be pretty hard on the hands and it’s smart to wear a good pair of gloves. This will help you get a better grip on the rope and you won’t have to worry about rope burns on your hands. If you didn’t bring a pair with you, head on over to the ski shop to get a pair. It’s well worth the expense.

4. Take your time.

You may catch on to the rope tow immediately, or it may take a few tries (or thirty). Don’t get frustrated and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Rushing through the process of grabbing the rope and timing your departure are the number one reasons many people fall. Just take a deep breath and take your time. You can learn how to use the rope tow – and once you get the hang of it, it will be easier every time.

While it is easier to take a chair lift, there is actually quite a lot to be learned by using a rope tow. You’ll be working on timing skills, as well as your balance and these are very valuable lessons to learn.

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Categories:

Rope Tow, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding, Tips and Tricks

Tags:

basic principle, chair lifts, contraptions, gloves, intervals, little time, many mountains, pulley system, rope burns, rope tows, ski shop, skiers, skis, snowboard