This paper present an analysis which may be used to obtain a rational design of a system of inclined piles used in preventing downhill creep of unsaturated clay formations. It uses two simple and relatively easy to measure parameters (an estimate of the maximum downhill creep together with a knowledge of the depth of the so called active zone) to calculate the required section size and the optimal spacing (pitch) of the piles for a desired efficiency of the system as a whole. Design charts are provided to facilitate the process.