The main characteristic that differentiates carving from conventional skiing is the shape of the skis: in skiing they are rectangular while in carving they have angles curving inside on U-shaped arched board. This innovative design enables the length of the skis to be cut, making them more manageable than the traditional ones. Their shape also prevents the boot from coming into contact with the snow, which is the most common cause of loss of control.

The incorporation of these changes in the skis, which retain the same width, enables skiers to turn with far greater ease and less skidding. Changing direction is similar to normal competition skiing: you bend your knees and aim the ski in the desired direction. In addition, the more pressure the skier places on the board, the more it arches and sharper and more spectacular turns are possible at higher speeds. However, for safety's sake it is best that the board not exceed the height of the skier, that it be elastic and that the weight of the skier be taken into account. The boards are used with supporting sticks that facilitate skiing down dips and around close corners, and boots that are more flexible and tight in the lower part.

Ski-derived discipline
However, it should be clear that curving is not merely a series of improvements to the material, but a new discipline derived from skiing in which, apart from sharing a few procedures, includes many new techniques.  Clearly it is best to seek a professional trainer if beginning in this sport who will show you the techniques and precautions to take.

There are different types of carving:
- Race Carve. For high speeds and changes of direction similar to high competition. Practised by experts and professional skiers.
- Fun Carving. Fun-based version specialised in turns and sharp spins around a small radius. Short skis are need and intense training required coupled with excellent physical shape.
- Easy Carve. An easy to learn technique using soft, flexible skis. Recommended for beginners and skiers of moderate ability.
- Carving Free Ride. Free style and off-piste races, turns and jumps using free ride and all-terrain skis.
- Free Style o New School. Special skis are needed with the front and back tips arched upwards. In this manner, they do not become stuck in the snow and enable the skier to perform pirouettes and jumps. There are also double spatula designs to ski backwards.
- Carving Slalom. Very low skis, with wide ends and narrow width. Appropriate for sharp turns at high speeds.

Carving schools
Centro Barrab�s
Province: Huesca
Course location: Sierra Nevada (Granada)

Escuela Espa�ola de Esqu� de Cerler EEE
Course location: Estaci�n de Esqu� de Cerler

Club Pal Arinsal
Course location: La Massana, Andorra
Gressoney Monte Rosa