Henrik Harlaut is a name that resonates far beyond the world of freestyle skiing. Known for his unique style, eccentric personality, and boundary-pushing moves, he has become a living legend in slopestyle and big air competitions. One of his most iconic techniques — the butter — has not only become synonymous with his skiing but also elevated him into cult status among ski enthusiasts. This smooth, stylish move is equal parts art and technique, and Harlaut executes it with a flair that few can replicate.
So, what exactly is a “butter” in the world of skiing, and how did Henrik Harlaut master it to the point of redefining freestyle progression? Let’s dive into the art of the butter and discover what makes Harlaut’s version so epic.
What Is a Ski Butter?
A butter is a trick that involves using the flex of the skis to perform rotations and spins while keeping part of the skis in contact with the snow. Think of it as a pre-rotation or a press on either the tails or tips of the skis — much like spreading butter on warm toast with a smooth motion. It requires outstanding balance, timing, and an intuitive feel for the skis and terrain.
In freestyle skiing, it’s a stylish way to link tricks, start combos, or just add flair mid-run. But when Henrik does it, it’s a spectacle — a combination of athleticism and expression that captivates both judges and fans.
Harlaut’s Signature Style
Known for his baggy clothing, dreadlocks, and offbeat approach, Harlaut brings more than skills to the hill. His style is deeply influenced by hip-hop culture and street skiing aesthetics, which reflect in the way he executes moves like the butter. Rather than using it merely as a setup element, Harlaut often turns the butter into a trick of its own — utilizing it at high speed, off jumps, or on rails.
Here’s what sets his butters apart:
- Extreme ski flex: Harlaut chooses skis with considerable flex, allowing for deeper presses and more exaggerated movements, especially on the tails.
- Fluid transitions: He’s a master of transitioning a butter into another trick — a cork, a spin, or even a switch landing.
- Terrain usage: Whether on a groomed park run or a backcountry pillow line, Harlaut finds places to butter that others wouldn’t imagine.
Take his legendary run at the Winter X Games in Aspen, where he incorporated a butter right before a massive jump, added a spin, and then stomped it clean. That moment not only became viral but also set a new creative benchmark in competition skiing.
How to Butter Like Harlaut
If you’re looking to add some buttery flair to your skiing repertoire, here are a few tips inspired by Henrik Harlaut’s technique:
- Start Small: Practice on gentle slopes and work your way up. Learn to press your weight onto the tips or tails of your skis while keeping control.
- Find the Right Skis: Opt for twin-tip skis with medium to soft flex. This allows for greater responsiveness and easier manipulation during the press.
- Engage with Your Core: Buttering isn’t just about leaning — it’s about core strength and balance. Your body should be centered and dynamic.
- Feel the Rhythm: Harlaut’s butters flow like a dance move. Watch videos of his style and try to match the fluidity rather than forcing the movement.
- Progress Slowly: Combine simple butters with skids and low-impact spins before attempting more complex combos.
Remember, adding personality to the trick — whether it’s a subtle tweak or a full-body lean — is what makes a butter truly representative of individual style. And nobody embodies personalized style better than Henrik Harlaut.
Why It Matters
In a sport that’s often measured in degrees of spin and height off the lip, Henrik Harlaut’s commitment to creativity and flow challenges what it means to ski with style. The butter, though often considered a simple trick, becomes a storytelling tool in his hands. It connects movement with music, form with soul.
Harlaut’s iconic butters have influenced a new generation of skiers to think outside the box. They’ve shown that innovation doesn’t always mean going bigger — sometimes, the most exciting moves are the ones closest to the ground.
So, the next time you’re on the slopes and tap your tails into a press, think of Henrik Harlaut spreading style across the mountain — buttering the bread like a true pro.