Definition of kick turn

The term "kick turn" in skiing and snowboarding originated from the technique used to navigate narrow or tight spaces on the slopes. The term "turn" simply refers to the act of changing the direction of travel by pivoting on the edge of the skinny top section of the skis or board. In a kick turn, the action is initiated by kicking the back leg out to the side while keeping the weight on the inside ski or board edge. This action releases the outside ski or board, allowing the skier to pivot around it while leaning in the opposite direction. The term "kick" comes from the quick and forceful motion needed to propel the back leg out. The origin of this specific technique can be traced back to the early days of skiing and snowboarding when skiers and boarders had to navigate through tight spaces due to the limitations of trails and equipment. The kick turn allowed skiers and boarders to turn around in a narrow space without losing speed or momentum, eventually becoming a standard part of the skiing and snowboarding vocabulary. Today, the kick turn is an essential technique for navigating through tight spaces on the slopes and is widely taught in skiing and snowboarding lessons.