Should Kids Learn To Ski Using An Edgie Wedgie? (Thoughts From a Ski Instructor)
As a seasoned ski instructor, I’ve seen many young learners take to the slopes for the first time. One question that often arises is whether kids should learn to ski using an Edgie Wedgie. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using this tool and provide insights from my own experience teaching kids to ski.
Learning to ski can be a fun but challenging experience for kids. Many parents and instructors look for tools to help make this process easier. One of these tools is the Edgie Wedgie, a small strap that attaches to the tips of a child’s skis, helping them maintain the “pizza” shape or wedge position. This wedge is crucial for beginner skiers, as it helps with balance, control, and slowing down. The question is, should kids use an Edgie Wedgie when learning to ski?
However, while the Edgie Wedgie is a great starting tool, it’s important not to rely on it for too long. Eventually, kids need to learn how to manage their skis without it. As an instructor, I always recommend gradually weaning kids off the Edgie Wedgie as they improve. This helps them gain more independence and feel in control of their skiing.
The Edgie Wedgie is an excellent aid for helping kids learn to ski, especially in the early stages. But like training wheels on a bike, it’s a temporary tool to build confidence before moving on to more advanced techniques.
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What Is An Edgie Wedgie?
What Does An Edgie Wedgie Do?
An Edgie Wedgie is a simple tool that helps beginner skiers, especially kids, learn how to control their skis. It’s a small rubber strap that attaches to the tips of their skis, keeping them together in a wedge or “pizza” shape. This wedge shape is important for beginners because it helps with balance, control, and slowing down while skiing.
The main benefit of the Edgie Wedgie is that it makes it easier for kids to maintain the wedge position, which can be difficult for them to hold on their own, especially if they’re starting out. With the Edgie Wedgie, kids don’t have to worry as much about their skis drifting apart, so they can focus more on learning how to stop, turn, and feel comfortable on the slopes.
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Easier learning: The Edgie Wedgie simplifies the learning process for kids, allowing them to focus on other aspects of skiing.
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Improved balance: By maintaining proper edge alignment, kids develop better balance and coordination.
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Increased confidence: The device provides a sense of security, helping kids feel more comfortable on the slopes.
It’s a helpful tool that gives young skiers more control and confidence, allowing them to enjoy skiing while gradually improving their skills also keep warm during ski by wearing ski base layers.
Important Note: The Edgie Wedgie is meant to be a temporary training aid, not a permanent solution. As kids progress in their skiing abilities, they should gradually transition away from using the device to develop independent skiing skills.
Should My Child Use An Edgie Wedgie?
Whether your child should use an Edgie Wedgie depends on their skill level and comfort on the slopes. For many young beginners, the Edgie Wedgie can be a great tool to help them learn the basics of skiing, especially if they struggle to keep their skis in the wedge or “pizza” shape. This position is important for controlling speed and making turns, and the Edgie Wedgie helps hold the tips of the skis together, making it easier for kids to focus on learning other skills.
If your child is just starting out and finds it hard to maintain control of their skis, the Edgie Wedgie can be very beneficial. It boosts confidence by providing extra stability and reduces the frustration that can come from their skis spreading apart. Many ski instructors recommend it for the early stages of learning, as it helps young skiers feel more comfortable and in control.
However, as your child gains more confidence and starts improving their skills, it’s important to slowly move away from the Edgie Wedgie. Kids will eventually need to learn how to control their skis without the extra help. If your child is ready to start skiing on their own without relying on the Edgie Wedgie, you can gradually phase it out.
In summary, the Edgie Wedgie is an excellent tool for beginners, but it should be used as a temporary aid while your child builds up their skills and confidence on the slopes.
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Easier learning: Simplifies the learning process for young skiers.
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Improved balance: Helps maintain proper edge alignment and balance.
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Increased confidence: Provides a sense of security and stability.
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Reduced frustration: Can minimize struggles with ski control.
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Dependency: Kids might rely too heavily on the device.
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Limited progress: This may hinder the development of advanced skiing skills.
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Additional cost: Adds expense to already pricey ski equipment.
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Adjustment period: Kids may need time to adjust to skiing without it.
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Young beginners: Ages 3-5, just starting to learn.
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Small or lightweight children: Who struggle to control skis.
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Children with coordination challenges: May benefit from extra support.
How To Attach An Edgie Wedgie?
To attach an Edgie Wedgie, start by placing the strap over the tips of your child’s skis. Each end of the Edgie Wedgie has small clips that securely fasten onto the tips of both skis. Make sure it is snug but not too tight, allowing some movement while keeping the skis together in the wedge position. This simple attachment helps maintain control and balance for beginner skiers.
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Locate the small clips or straps on the Edgie Wedgie.
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Attach these clips to the ski boot or binding, typically near the toe or heel.
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Adjust the straps to fit snugly, ensuring proper alignment.
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Check the Edgie Wedgie’s positioning to ensure it’s centered and secure.
Once attached, the Edgie Wedgie keeps the skis from spreading apart, allowing kids to focus on learning other skills like stopping and turning. It’s quick and easy to remove once your child no longer needs it.
Who Should Use An Edgie Wedgie?
An Edgie Wedgie is designed for young children who are just beginning to ski. It’s especially helpful for those struggling to hold their skis in the wedge or “pizza” shape, which is key to controlling speed and maintaining balance. If your child is new to skiing and finds it hard to keep their skis together, the Edgie Wedgie can make the learning process much smoother.
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Children aged 3-8, are just starting to learn skiing.
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Small or lightweight skiers who struggle to control their skis.
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Kids with coordination challenges or balance issues.
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Beginner skiers who require extra support and confidence.
Ski instructors often recommend the Edgie Wedgie for very young skiers or those who need extra help building confidence on the slopes. It allows them to practice basic skills while providing extra stability.
How Long Should A Child Use An Edgie Wedgie and How To Stop Them?
A child should use the Edgie Wedgie only as long as it’s needed to help them gain control and confidence on their skis. As they improve and start holding the wedge position on their own, it’s important to gradually stop using the Edgie Wedgie. This transition can be done by loosening the strap or practicing short runs without it.
Over time, your child will develop the necessary leg strength and coordination to ski without the Edgie Wedgie. Slowly weaning them off the tool ensures they become more independent and capable on the slopes.
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Gradually reduce reliance: Encourage your child to ski without the device on gentle slopes.
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Practice without assistance: Increase time spent skiing without the Edgie Wedgie.
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Monitor progress: Assess your child’s skills and adjust the transition pace accordingly.
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Consult a ski instructor: Get professional guidance on transitioning to independent skiing.
Comments from a Ski Instructor
As a ski instructor, I’ve seen firsthand how helpful an Edgie Wedgie can be for young children learning to ski. It’s a simple but effective tool that allows beginners to focus on balance and control without constantly worrying about their skis drifting apart. For very young skiers or those new to the sport, the Edgie Wedgie can make the learning process much smoother and less frustrating.
However, it’s important to remember that the Edgie Wedgie is only a temporary aid. As kids progress and gain more confidence, it’s crucial to start phasing it out so they can learn to control their skis independently. Instructors often recommend using it only in the early stages of learning and gradually reducing its use as the child’s skills improve. The goal is to help young skiers feel comfortable and in control but also to ensure they develop the ability to ski confidently without relying on any aids.
Disadvantages
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Dependency: Kids might rely too heavily on the device.
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Limited progress: This may hinder the development of advanced skiing skills.
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Additional cost: Adds expense to already pricey ski equipment.
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Adjustment period: Kids may need time to adjust to skiing without it.
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Ski lessons with a certified instructor: Provides personalized guidance.
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Ski equipment adjustments: Ensure proper boot and binding fit.
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Practice and patience: Allow children to develop skills gradually.
Conclusion
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The Edgie Wedgie assists with edge alignment and balance.
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Ideal users include beginner skiers aged 3-8.
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Attach the Edgie Wedgie securely to ski boots or bindings.
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Gradually transition children to independent skiing.
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