The Straight and Narrow with Seth Morrison

Seth Morrison has a knack for making technical perfection look like an afterthought. The star of more than 20 ski flicks-including films by Warren Miller, Poor Boyz, and Matchstick Productions-he’s currently working with Brad Holmes on Stars, Skis, and Hucks, out this month. Click the slideshow below to see Seth Morrison straightlining it, each step of the way (and make sure to GO HUGE by clicking on the image!).

STEP 1: VISUALIZE THE PRIZE
Never go into a straightline without knowing what’s lurking below you (trees, rocks, skiers). Ski in from the top and check your speed, watching for rocks on the inrun. Once you have a clean line of sight, visualize where you’ll turn into the line and where your straight run will end.

STEP 2: POP AND POINT
Line up, focus down the chute, and be confident. Stay on top of your skis, and push your hands and shoulders down the fall line, ready to react to whatever comes at you. Then point ’em and let ’em run.

STEP 3: LOCK IN YOUR COORDINATES
Speed increases in the middle of a straight-line and you can’t scrub it off by turning. You must commit to your line from start to finish. You’re hauling ass now, so if you’re going to jump any cliffs (like the small one in the middle of my line), make sure you have your trajectory dialed-especially if your runout is in the trees.

STEP 4: STOMP OR STUMBLE
Now that you’re airborne, keep your knees tucked and your eyes on your landing. As you approach it, extend your legs and prepare to absorb the energy. Stomping is the only option here. If you bail, it’s probably over for the day.

STEP 5: CHECK YOUR SPEED
Still looking ahead (those trees are getting closer…), bang a sharp turn with lots of edge power for a quick speed scrub.

QUICKTIP:Speed and confidence are your friends. Doubt yourself, and you’ll probably tumble.

SEPTEMBER 2005