On Thursday, April 7, 2016 at 8:59:14 AM UTC+3, 2G wrote:
A "low save" is one where spin recovery is not likely.

If you want to think that the statistical probability of dying while executing low saves is diminishingly small, so be it. When you know the pilot who died, as I do, it becomes more personal and real.

Seems like a flat land flier's definition.

Those flying in mountains are constantly taking thermals from a few hundred feet above peaks and ridges -- or from below the ridge.

The key is to make sure you *don't* spin. Fly at all times at LEAST at landing approach speed (in the given wind conditions), not at the speed you use for thermalling at 2000 ft. And add a bit onto that. I'm talking about 60 or 65 or even 70 knots, instead of 45 or 50 knots.

Yeah, you might decrease your chance of being able to climb in a weak or small thermal, but you also vastly decrease your chance of dying.