DEFINITION
Wavering describes a slide that visibly oscillates — the car's tail moves in and out rather than holding a clean angle. Wavering is a sign of inconsistent throttle and steering input, and judges score it down.
It is distinct from a single correction (one input) and distinct from a wobble (a harder, faster oscillation). Wavering is the small, repeated, never-quite-stable version.
HISTORY & ORIGIN
Wavering entered formal drift judging vocabulary in the late 2000s as judges sought finer-grained terms for sub-perfect runs.
TECHNIQUE BREAKDOWN
Driver inputs small, repeated steering corrections instead of a single committed input. Judges flag the affected segment.
PRO TIPS & COMMON MISTAKES
• Smooth throttle pressure cures most wavering. Stab-and-lift inputs make the car oscillate.
• Common mistake: chasing the line with steering instead of with throttle. Throttle sets the angle; steering reads it.
Mid-clip wavering cost her two points but didn't decide the battle.