It’s Time to Hit the Slopes: Everything You Need to Know About Snowboarding.
Are you someone who dreams of speeding down snowy slopes during the winter? If so, snowboarding might be the power sport for you. With its origins beginning over hundred years ago in snow covered Europe, the modern day version has become an international sensation amongst the sporting world. Snowboarding has exploded in popularity over the last thirty years, becoming an incredibly popular way to engage in winter sports.
If you’re interested in snowboarding, this blog post will teach you all the basics you need to know in order to get out on the slopess and enjoy one of the best winter activities out there. We’ll cover topics such as what snowboarding is, the gear types and products you’ll need, necessary safety precautions, and even tricks and style that can help set you above the rest. So, lace up your boots, put on your gear, and let’s get ready to hit the slopes!
What is Snowboarding?
Snowboarding is a winter sport involving sliding down steeps slopes at speed. Snowboarders use their feet to secure themselves to a board and their arms and hands to maintain balance. The sport is enjoyed by amateurs and professionals alike and offers a unique way to experience the power and beauty of winter.
Snowboarding can be accomplished on different kinds of terrain, from easy groomed slopes to backcountry powder and steep terrain. Depending on the type of snowboard you use and the terrain you choose, the experience and attitude of a snowboarder can vastly differ.
Snowboard Gear
When gearing up for snowboarding, a few important pieces of equipment are essential. While the gear you decide to use largely depends on the terrain and the style of snowboarding you prefer, certain pieces of gear are essential no matter the terrain. This includes a snowboard, bindings, boots, helmet, and, depending on the terrain, outerwear and avalanche safety gear.
Snowboard: The first and most important piece of equipment for snowboarding is the snowboard itself. Different shapes, sizes, and stiffness exist for snowboards allowing for different styles of riding and different terrain to be ridden. Generally, more freestyle boards are soft and designed for tricks, and more freeride boards are stiffer, made for speed and stability on steeper slopes.
Bindings: Bindings attach your boots to the board and are the key to transferring your energy into the board. Bindings are available in a range of stiffness and styles to fit different riding preferences and board designs, so it is important to find the right one for your needs.
Boots: Boots are one of the most important pieces of gear when it comes to snowboarding. You don’t want to skimp on getting a good quality boot; the right pair will help support and protect your feet while helping you stay connected to your board.
Helmet: Helmets are non-negotiable when snowboarding, no matter the terrain. The right snowboarding helmet will fit snugly and provide adequate protection for your head, so make sure to try on a few and make sure you get the perfect fit for you.
Outerwear: Depending on your preferred terrain, you’ll need the appropriate outerwear to stay warm and dry. Waterproof and breathable jackets and pants are the way to go here, though it is advised to get layers to keep warm on colder days.
Safety: Avalanche safety gear is a must for snowboarders who intend to venture into backcountry terrain, as even with safety gear there are still risks associated with this kind of terrain. At the very least, if you are going into backcountry terrain an avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe will be required.
Snowboard Skills & Style
While the majority of snowboarders stay within the groomed slopes and park area, there are still many skills and tricks that one can learn to up their riding game. Freestyle snowboarding is one of the most popular ways to ride a snowboard and comes in many forms, such as urban riding, jibbing, and jumping.
Freestyle snowboarding entails the use of spinning and flipping off jumps and surfaces in order to showcase the rider’s style. However, learning to land these tricks properly and safely is essential. Freeride snowboarding involves going deeper into the backcountry and, depending on the terrain, will require more experience and skills.
Equipment such as splitboards, avalanche safety gear, and an increased awareness of the environment are essential for freeriders. Freeriding also often involves steep, technical terrain and large, intense jumps and drops, making it important for freeriders to build up skill and knowledge first to be able to do this safely.
Snowboard Within Your Limits
No matter the level and style of riding, pushing the limits is always done at the rider’s risk and should always be done with caution. Snowboarders should always adhere to the ski area regulations and stay away from unmarked terrain. Be aware of the conditions and the terrain, and always make sure there is a spotter or someone watching out for you at all times.
If you’re just starting out, it’s key to start out easy and work your way up as you gain experience and confidence in your ability. A knowledgeable instructor is essential at this stage, as they can help provide tips and guidance and make sure you’re ready to move onto more intense terrain.
Conclusion
Snowboarding is an incredibly rewarding and versatile power sport that has become a huge sensation across the world. If you’re looking to hit the slopes this winter, make sure to have the right gear and the right skills to stay safe and have a awesome time. If you follow the safety precautions and work hard, you’ll be learning tricks and navigating technical terrain no time. So, throw on your gear, strap on your board, and get ready to hit the slopes!
Ready to Head Down the Slopes? Everything You Need to Know About Snowboarding.