How to Use Powder Cords in Deep Snow

If you've ever lost a ski while plunging down a run in waist-deep snow, you know how hard it can be find it again. Skis lost in three feet of snow can submarine under the surface for yards and become impossible to find. And the worst part is that you can't buy just ONE ski to replace the lost one--you have to buy a new pair. Fortunately, there is an easy and affordable answer: powder cords. Powder cords are long, brightly colored cords made from durable fabrics that attach to your bindings and trail out from your skis when you fall. Here's how to use them.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase powder cords from any reputable ski shop. If the shops near your home don't carry them, wait until you get to the resort. Expect to pay around $5 to $10 for a pair. Make sure that they are thick, durable and brightly colored.

2. Before you put your boots into your bindings, slip the loop on the end of the powder cord over the end of your ski brake. Ideally, you should slide the cord over the outside portion of your ski brake.

3. Bunch up the cord and stuff it inside the powder cuff of your ski pants. Do not coil the cord or secure it in any fashion--it needs to freely stream from your ski pants when you fall. Repeat on the other side.

4. When you fall and your ski submarines under the surface of the snow, look for the brightly colored end of the powder cord. Simply reel it in until you find your ski. Clean the snow from the bottom of your boots and stuff the powder cord back into your ski pants (see step 3).

Tips & Warnings

• A quality pair of powder cords should be a bright color such as fluorescent orange or green. Rhin, inexpensive powder cords are no bargain.
• Never coil or secure the powder cords--this will render them ineffective.