Should Kids Learn To Ski Using An Edgie Wedgie? Everything You Need to Know

Comments from a Ski Instructor

Here’s insight from a hypothetical ski instructor, inspired by real-world perspectives, to give you a pro’s take on the Edgie Wedgie:

“I’ve been teaching kids to ski for over a decade, and the Edgie Wedgie is hands-down my favorite tool for the little ones, especially the 2- to 5-year-olds. It’s a game-changer on day one—cuts down tears and tumbles by keeping those ski tips in check. I’ve seen a 3-year-old go from flailing to giggling down the bunny hill in an hour with it. But it’s not a crutch to lean on forever. I tell parents to watch for when their kid starts pushing those legs out and the rubber just hangs loose—that’s the signal to take it off. For a 4-year-old I taught last week, we used it for two runs, then ditched it by lunch; she was stopping like a champ. The trick is not letting it become their security blanket—swap it out for verbal cues early, like ‘pizza time,’ and they’ll transition smoothly. Only downside? It’s a pain on flat spots—kids can’t shuffle worth a darn with it on, so you’re schlepping them to the lift. Still, for $10, it’s worth its weight in gold for those first few hours.”

A few key points I emphasize to parents:

• Proper Fit and Attachment: Make sure the Edgie Wedgie is securely attached to the skis and that it’s not too tight, which can hinder movement.

• Focus on Fundamentals: Even with an Edgie Wedgie, it’s essential to teach children the proper body position and weight distribution for the snowplow. They need to bend their knees, keep their eyes up, and lean slightly forward.

• Gradual Progression: Don’t keep the Edgie Wedgie on for the entire lesson. Start with it and then gradually remove it as the child gains confidence and control.

• Individualized Approach: Every child learns differently. Some may benefit from using an Edgie Wedgie for several lessons, while others may only need it for a short time. Pay attention to your child’s progress and adjust your approach accordingly.

• Communication: Talk to your child about the Edgie Wedgie and explain that it’s a tool to help them learn, not a crutch to rely on. Encourage them to try skiing without it as soon as they feel ready.

• Safety First: Always supervise children closely, especially on their first few times skiing. Make sure they are skiing on appropriate terrain and that they understand the importance of skiing in control.

• Parental Involvement: Be actively involved in your child’s learning process. Encourage them, praise their efforts, and make it a fun and positive experience.”

By following these guidelines, you can make the most of the Edgie Wedgie and help your child develop a lifelong love of skiing.

Cons of Using a Ski Edgie Wedgie:

• Potential for Over-Reliance/Habit Formation: The biggest drawback is the risk of a child becoming overly reliant on the Edgie Wedgie. If used for too long, it can hinder the development of independent skiing skills and proper technique. Children may develop a dependence on artificial stability and have difficulty transitioning to skiing without it.

• Hindrance to Natural Skill Development: By forcing the skis into a specific position, the Edgie Wedgie can limit the child’s ability to experiment and discover natural balance and control on their own. This can slow down the development of more advanced skills later on.

• Incorrect Muscle Memory: If Edgie Wedgie creates an unnatural or exaggerated snowplow position, it can lead to the development of incorrect muscle memory. This can be difficult to correct later on and may affect their skiing style in the long run.

• Limited Terrain and Skill Progression: The Edgie Wedgie is strictly for beginner slopes and the snowplow technique. It does not help with learning parallel skiing, carving, or navigating more challenging terrain.

• Reduced Sensory Input: By connecting the skis, the Edgie Wedgie reduces the sensory feedback the child receives from the snow. This feedback is important for developing a feel for the snow and learning to adjust to different conditions.

• Potential for Injury (Misuse): While rare, improper use of an Edgie Wedgie could potentially contribute to certain types of injuries. For example, if a child tries to turn too sharply while using the Edgie Wedgie, it could put undue stress on their knees or ankles.

• Cost (vs. Other Methods): While relatively inexpensive, the Edgie Wedgie is still an added expense. Some instructors argue that the same results can be achieved with proper instruction and technique without the need for a device.

• Marketing and Hype: It’s important to remember that the Edgie Wedgie is a product being marketed to parents. Some of the claims made about its effectiveness may be exaggerated.

• Not a Substitute for Qualified Instruction: An Edgie Wedgie should never be considered a substitute for professional ski instruction. A qualified instructor can provide personalized guidance and ensure that the child is learning proper technique.

Important Note: The key to minimizing these cons is to use the Edgie Wedgie appropriately and temporarily. It should be viewed as a stepping stone, not a permanent solution. Careful monitoring of the child’s progress and timely removal of the device is crucial for successful skill development.

How to get kids to stop using an Edgie Wedgie

Successfully transitioning a child away from using an Edgie Wedgie requires a patient, encouraging, and strategic approach. The goal is to foster confidence and independence, ensuring they’re ready to ski without the assistance of the device. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Recognizing Readiness:

• Consistent Snowplow: Observe if your child can consistently maintain the snowplow position (the wedge shape) without conscious effort.

• Speed Control: Can they control their speed effectively using the snowplow, without the Edgie Wedgie forcing them?

• Turning Ability: Can they initiate turns by shifting their weight and pressure, rather than just relying on the Edgie Wedgie to steer them?

• Verbal Clues: Does your child express a desire to try skiing without it? Are they starting to see other kids skiing independently and want to emulate them?

2. Gradual Transition – The Key to Success:

• Loosening the Tether: If your Edgie Wedgie allows for it, begin by slightly loosening the tension. This allows the skis more freedom to move independently, preparing them for full removal.

• Short, Supervised Sessions: Start with short periods of skiing without the Edgie Wedgie on gentle slopes. Keep these sessions brief and positive.

• Positive Reinforcement: Offer abundant praise and encouragement, regardless of immediate success. Focus on effort and progress, not perfection. Use phrases like “I see you’re working hard at keeping your skis in a wedge!” or “Great job trying on your own!”

• Fun and Games: Incorporate games that encourage independent skiing, like following you in a line, skiing to designated spots, or simple obstacle courses. Make it playful!

• “Practice” Runs: Explain that these sessions without the Edgie Wedgie are just “practice runs,” and they can always put it back on if they feel uncomfortable. This reduces pressure and anxiety.

3. Addressing Resistance:

• Acknowledge Feelings: If your child is hesitant or scared, acknowledge their feelings. “I know it feels different without the Edgie Wedgie, but I believe you can do it.”

• Explain the Progress: Remind them of how far they’ve come and how much they’ve improved. “Remember when you first started, and you couldn’t keep your skis together? Now look at you!”

• Offer Choices (Within Limits): “Do you want to try one run without it, or two? You decide.” Giving them a sense of control can help alleviate anxiety.

• Back-Up Plan: Let them know you’ll keep the Edgie Wedgie in your pocket (or nearby) so they can easily put it back on if they feel overwhelmed. This provides a safety net.

• Avoid Pressure: Never force them to ski without the Edgie Wedgie if they’re genuinely distressed. Pushing too hard can backfire and create negative associations with skiing.

4. Celebrate Success!

• Acknowledge the Milestone: When they successfully ski without the Edgie Wedgie for a full run (or lesson), celebrate their accomplishment!

• Reward: A small, non-material reward (like extra hot chocolate or choosing the dinner menu) can be a nice way to acknowledge their progress.

How Long Should Kids Wear an Edgie Wedgie?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a child should use an Edgie Wedgie. The duration depends heavily on individual factors like age, coordination, learning style, and previous experience. However, the general principle is to use it as briefly as possible while still providing effective support for learning the basics.

• The Goal: Short-Term Assistance: Emphasize that the Edgie Wedgie is a temporary training aid, not a permanent ski accessory. The goal is to help them quickly grasp the fundamentals and then progress to independent skiing.

• First Few Sessions (or Less): For many children, the Edgie Wedgie may only be needed for the first few ski sessions (or even just part of a session). The initial purpose is to introduce the snowplow position and build confidence.

• Monitor Progress Closely: Continuously observe your child’s skiing. Look for signs that they are developing the following:

  • Consistent Snowplow: Can they maintain the wedge shape with their skis consistently and without conscious effort?

  • Speed Control: Are they able to control their speed effectively using the snowplow technique?

  • Turning Ability: Can they initiate turns by shifting their weight and pressure, rather than solely relying on the Edgie Wedgie to steer them?

  • Balance and Stability: Do they demonstrate improved balance and stability while skiing?

• Signs It’s Time to Remove It: Once your child consistently demonstrates these skills, it’s time to start the transition away from the Edgie Wedgie.

• Maximum Duration (Generally): As a general guideline, if a child has been using an Edgie Wedgie for more than, say, 3-4 ski sessions without significant progress, it might be time to reconsider its use. Perhaps they need a different teaching approach or more personalized instruction. Continued reliance beyond this point could hinder their development.

• Individual Variability: Remember that every child learns at their own pace. Some may be ready to ditch the Edgie Wedgie after a single lesson, while others may need it for a bit longer. Don’t compare your child’s progress to others.

• Professional Guidance: Consulting with a qualified ski instructor can be invaluable in determining the appropriate duration of Edgie Wedgie use. An instructor can assess your child’s skills and provide personalized recommendations.

• Preventing Over-Reliance: The key is to prevent the child from becoming overly reliant on the Edgie Wedgie. Make sure they understand that it’s a tool to help them learn, not a crutch to depend on.

The ideal duration for using an Edgie Wedgie is as short as possible, focusing on the initial learning phase and transitioning to independent skiing as soon as the child demonstrates the necessary skills and confidence. Consistent monitoring, professional guidance, and a focus on preventing over-reliance are crucial for optimal results.

Do Ski Instructors Use Edgie Wedgies to Teach Kids to Ski?

The use of Edgie Wedgies among ski instructors is not universal; it varies depending on the instructor’s philosophy, the ski school’s policies, and the individual needs of the child. While some instructors find them to be a helpful tool, others prefer alternative methods.

• Some Instructors Find Them Useful: Some instructors view Edgie Wedgies as a valuable tool for certain beginner skiers, particularly very young children (ages 3-5) or those who are initially hesitant or struggle to grasp the snowplow technique. They might use them to:

  • Introduce the snowplow position in a controlled manner.

  • Build initial confidence and reduce anxiety.

  • Help children get a feel for skiing without the frustration of constantly losing the wedge.

• Alternative Methods Exist: Many instructors prefer to teach the snowplow using alternative methods that focus on:

  • Proper body positioning (bent knees, forward lean).

  • Weight distribution and edging techniques.

  • Games and activities that naturally encourage the snowplow position.

  • One-on-one guidance and hands-on assistance.

• Concerns About Over-Reliance: Some instructors are hesitant to use Edgie Wedgies due to concerns about:

  • Children becoming too reliant on the device and not developing independent skills.

  • The artificial feeling of the device hinders the development of natural balance and coordination.

  • The potential for creating incorrect muscle memory if the snowplow position is exaggerated or unnatural.

• Ski School Policies: Some ski schools have specific policies regarding the use of Edgie Wedgies. Some may encourage or even require their use for certain age groups, while others may discourage or prohibit them.

• Individualized Approach: The best instructors will tailor their teaching methods to the individual needs of each child. They will assess the child’s skill level, coordination, confidence, and learning style and then decide whether an Edgie Wedgie is appropriate.

• Transparency with Parents: Reputable ski instructors should be transparent with parents about their teaching methods and the pros and cons of using an Edgie Wedgie. They should be willing to discuss alternative approaches and answer any questions.

While some ski instructors do use Edgie Wedgies as part of their teaching toolkit, it’s not a universally accepted practice. The decision of whether or not to use an Edgie Wedgie should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual needs of the child, the instructor’s philosophy, and the ski school’s policies. The key is to prioritize proper technique, prevent over-reliance, and foster a positive and enjoyable learning experience.

Conclusion:

The Edgie Wedgie can be a treasured asset in a young toddler’s early ski education, imparting a boost in self-assurance and facilitating the initial hold close of the fundamental snowplow technique. It’s a low-cost and on-hand tool that could appreciably reduce frustration for both baby and figure.

However, it is crucial to apprehend that Edgie Wedgie isn’t a magic bullet. It’s a brief training resource that has to be used judiciously and with a clean expertise of its limitations. Over-reliance on the tool can preclude the improvement of natural skiing abilities and doubtlessly create awful habits.

The key to achievement lies in a balanced method: consider your infant’s personal desires and gain knowledge of style, prioritize the right method, display their progress closely, and transition far from the Edgie Wedgie as quickly as they show the capacity to hold manipulate, and balance independently. Combining Edgie Wedgie with qualified instruction and a focal point on constructing a strong basis of talents is a satisfactory way to make sure a superb hit begins with a lifelong love of skiing. When used effectively, the Edgie Wedgie can be a helpful stepping stone, however, in the long run, the goal is to empower youngsters to with a bit of luck navigate the slopes on their personal two skis.