A ski cut, or slope cut or slope test, is an intentional attempt by a skier, snowboarder, or snowmobiler to safely trigger a small avalanche. Ski cuts can be used to test the strength of weak layers in the upper snowpack, but they should only be attempted on small slopes where the consequences of an avalanche are limited. They are not useful for testing deeper weak layers.
Effective ski cutting requires the skier or rider to enter the slope at or above the start zone and target the highest elevation, most likely trigger point before quickly traversing to a safe spot adjacent to the targeted slope. A ski cut that is executed poorly or in the wrong situation can be ineffective and dangerous.
Because the individual performing a ski cut is exposing themselves to possible avalanche involvement, their partners should observe the cut from a safe spot and be ready to perform a companion rescue if necessary.