Michael Cares' switch-telemark sequence has the visual rhythm of a moonwalk on snow. The skier travels backwards while the skis trade their relative positions, creating a motion that looks unfamiliar even to viewers who recognise a normal telemark turn. The pleasure is in seeing those changing positions join into a smooth pattern rather than a collection of awkward-looking poses.
What switch telemark skiing means
Two terms make the clip easier to understand. Switch means travelling backwards relative to the skier's usual forward orientation. Telemark refers to a free-heel skiing setup and a characteristic staggered stance, with one ski leading the other. The backward direction and alternating leg positions combine here; moonwalk is a visual comparison, not the name of a separate ski discipline.
In a still image, the stance can look puzzling because the movement into and out of it has disappeared. Follow one ski through a complete sequence instead. Notice how its position changes in relation to the other ski and to the direction of travel. That is a more revealing way to watch than judging a single frame as though it were a position to hold.
Explore more: skiing and snowboarding in a shared film; learning a new winter-sport movement.
Telemark equipment is designed for the movement
Telemark equipment is an important part of the distinction. A free heel is not simply an alpine binding left undone: the boots and bindings are designed for the movement. FIS telemark equipment rules, for example, specify boots made for free-heel skiing with flexibility under the ball of the foot. The exact competition requirements are separate from this film, but the equipment difference explains the basic term. [1]
Learning begins before riding switch
The clip is best enjoyed as a skilled demonstration, not a complete lesson in riding backwards. It leaves out the gradual progression, suitable practice terrain and feedback an instructor would provide. If the movement interests you, ask a qualified telemark instructor about learning the discipline before treating this unusual variation as a starting exercise. The control is impressive precisely because the finished result conceals much of that preparation.
Sources, photography and further reading
Original feature and image attributions:
- Unofficial Networks
- This Video Is Nuts!: First Ever Wingsuit Flying Above Skiers
- New Zealand Company To Offer World’s First Hot Air Balloon Skiing
- Mad Skier Backflips Over A Highway - And Faceplants Against The Snow
- If This Video Does Not Get You Excited To Go Skiing You Should Just Stop Skiing!
- skiing and snowboarding in a shared film
- learning a new winter-sport movement
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