Ashton Salwan

WHERE FEAR MEETS FLIGHT: THE HEART-POUNDING WORLD OF FREESTYLE AERIAL SKIING

December 2024: Utah

In this blog post, I'm thrilled to take you into the high-flying world of freestyle aerials, a discipline in skiing where dynamics soar as high as the athletes.

HOW IT WORKS: In freestyle aerials, athletes build up to exhilarating downhill speeds of up to 40 mph before launching off massive jumps. Each site varies, with differences in in-run lengths and steepness, but all provide specifically designed ramps — single, double, or triple kickers — each set up for increasing levels of challenge. Athletes can ascend up to 15 meters (50 feet), performing a breathtaking blend of flips and twists midair, aiming for flawless form and precise rotation before their smooth landing. They continuously push the boundaries of human capability with increasingly complex tricks, such as triple flips with up to five twists. However, due to the inherent risks, including the potentially fatal outcomes from excessive rotations, competitors usually limit themselves to a maximum of three flips. The landing phase is on a steeply inclined hill, adding to the complexity and displaying an astonishing mix of athleticism, precision, and courage. Each jump is evaluated based on:

Takeoff: Judged on the technique and the height of the jump, contributing 20% to the score, with a maximum of 6 points.

Air Performance: Judged on the complexity and execution of the trick, accounting for 50% of the score, with up to 15 points.

Landing: Judged on the stability and control upon touchdown, making up 30% of the score, with a maximum of 9 points.

This system not only assesses skill but also the audacity and meticulous execution inherent in the sport.

TRAINING & DEDICATION: Mastering freestyle aerials takes years and requires relentless commitment. Training involves trampoline work, water ramp practice, and dryland conditioning before ever hitting the snow. Strength, flexibility, and mental resilience are just as critical as technical skill. Every jump is a mix of calculated precision and raw courage.

THRILL OF COMPETITION: From World Cup circuits to the Olympics, freestyle aerials showcases the world’s best athletes pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The sport is as much about progression as it is about competition — each year, new tricks redefine the limits of aerial skiing. For Ashton Salwan, freestyle aerials isn’t just a sport — it’s a passion. Every jump is an opportunity to reach new heights, challenge personal limits, and embrace the thrill of flight.

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