Riding Tip: Re-Entry with Chris Brown
A proper re-entry looks awesome and is do-able for athletic individuals with the right technique.
Words by Chris Brown. Sequence of Brett Turcotte by Tim Grey.
How to Execute a Re-Entry
Jump Selection
Finding the right jump for a re-entry is key. Ideally you want to find a jump that has a smooth run-in and a transition to a steep face. The more vertical the face, the more height you will get and the more it will pop you back to the landing.
A re-entry is best if it works like a quarter pipe. That way you can land on the tranny next to where you took off from. You can also do a re-entry whip and land on the upper deck and ride off the lip as performed here by Brett Turcotte.
The Approach
Much like approaching the face of a regular jump, you want your body to be neutral. You should be standing, centred on your sled, with equal weight on each foot. No sitting! Have your arms and knees bent, ready to absorb any impact. Look ahead of your skis.
The Takeoff
As you come up the face of the jump, you want to be leaning into the direction you are whipping. Your body weight will pull the sled as you leave the lip. You should be full throttle as you are coming up the face. As your skis leave the ground you can start turning your head in the direction you want to whip.
In the Air
Be on the throttle as the sled leaves the jump and starts to whip. I turn my head to look right back at where I took off. This really helps get the body and sled to follow, enabling the 180º turn.
Once the sled has come around, you can ease off the throttle. Spot your landing. You will most likely land where you look.
The Landing
As you approach the ground, you want your body ready for the impact. Brace yourself and have a firm grip on the bars. Elbows and knees should be bent to absorb impact. Keep looking ahead—you could get whiplash if you are looking down.
Just as the track hits the snow you can give it some throttle. The amount of throttle to give will depend on the attitude of your sled, meaning: is it track heavy or nose heavy? Try not to land too heavy on the either the track or the skis. Ideally, you’ll touch down with the track and skis as the same time.
Getting the track to spin upon impact will also make the landing smoother. Once on the ground, drive through it. Keep looking forward, and keep your momentum up.
Start small and work your way up as you feel comfortable. Try this in soft conditions as it will make the learning curve much easier. The most important thing to remember while doing a 180 or re-entry is to be confident. Do it right and don’t hesitate. Hesitation can hurt you sometimes.
Have fun and good luck! If I see you out in the backcountry I can show you how to do this!
Cheers,
— Chris
For more about Chris check out his Ride Whistler website.
