How to Properly Execute a Cornice Drop on Skis

So you're sitting in the gondola, scouting out the perfect line. And then you see it -- steep, untouched powder. But then at the top of this seemingly perfect line, a big, intimidating and dangerous looking cornice. No problem, just follow these steps and you'll be able to increase your back country mobility and have fun doing it!

Steps

1. 1 Start small, find one on a gently sloped pitch. You want a soft landing and a reasonably wide margin for wipe outs.
2. 2 Inspect the cornice. Make sure it has a safe landing free of obstacles such as rocks, grass, ice or bumps.
3. 3 Commit to the drop. When heading up to the jump for the first time, chances are, your entire body and mind is screaming "DON'T DO IT!". Try your best to resist the temptation of turning or stopping at the last minute. This won't help you at all. In fact going of a cornice sideways is probably the worst thing you can do.
4. 4 Bend your knees and try to even out your weight when going off the edge. Do not spring your knees like you are going off a big air jump. The object here is to gain access to great terrain, not to take the biggest air. That's what parks are for.
5. 5 Enjoy the air. Flying through the air at high speed is a fantastic feeling. Be sure to stay stable and have your pole parallel to your skis.  
6. 6 Land the drop like you would land any jump. Use your knees as shock absorbers and stay loose.