Snowboarding: How to Hit the Slopes Like a Pro.
Snowboarding has become one of the most popular winter activities in recent years. It’s easy to learn, exciting, and full of thrills. But on the slopes, you’ll see all kinds of riders—from beginners to experts—and understanding the basics is key to taking your snowboarding experience to the next level.
Whether you’re a beginner, someone who wants to brush up on their skills, or perhaps an experienced rider looking to hone in on their skills, this guide is designed to bring you up to speed on everything you’ll need to become a true snowboarding pro.
Getting Prepared for the Slopes
The first step to becoming a successful snowboarder is to get the right gear and equipment. This includes everything from clothing and helmets to boots and bindings. Here’s an overview of the necessary snowboarding equipment:
Clothing: You’ll need snowboarding-specific clothing like a snowboarding jacket, snow pants, thermal layers, gloves and beanies.
Helmet: This should be the first item on your shopping list. A helmet will help protect your head from injury should you take a spill.
Goggles: Goggles are a must-have for any snowboarder in order to protect your eyes from the elements. Look for goggles that blend style and functionality.
Snowboarding Boots: Choose boots that are comfortable, supportive, and warm. If you pick the wrong boots, your feet can get cold quickly.
Snowboard Bindings: Bindings are the connection between your boots and board. Choose ones that are adjustable and have good straps so you can make tweaks on the fly.
Snowboard: Research snowboards to help pick the right one for you. A good rule of thumb is to buy a board that’s suitable for all-around riding, as it’ll give you the most versatility on the slopes.
Once you’ve got all of your gear, the next step is getting to the slopes and mastering the basics.
The Fundamentals of Snowboarding
Before you can really nail your tricks, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of snowboarding. Here’s a quick overview of the snowboarding basics:
Stance: Make sure your feet are in the right position when you’re on the board. You’ll want to make sure they’re shoulder-width apart and that they’re pointed slightly outward.
Forward Lean: This is a key part of your balance on your board. You’ll want to slightly lean your body forward so you can keep your balance—however, be careful not to lean too far, as that can be difficult to control.
Edge Turning: To turn on a snowboard, you’ll need to use your edges. The edges are simply the edges of the board and can be used to initiate a turn.
Ollies: An ollie is a key part of snowboarding, and it’s often the first trick most riders learn. An ollie is a type of jump in which you press down on the board while simultaneously jumping off the ground. This way, you’re propelling yourself upwards while pushing the nose of your board up as well.
Carving: Carving is the term used to describe the twisting and turning of your board as you ride down the mountain. To carve, you’ll want to press down on your edges, which will initiate the turning motion.
Now that you know the basics, let’s move onto something a bit more technical—learning tricks.
Taking Your Snowboarding Skills to the Next Level
A big part of snowboarding—for some, the most important part!—is learning new tricks. Tricks can range from basic jumps to complex spins and corks. Here’s a look at some common snowboarding tricks:
180s: This trick involves the rider turning the board 180 degrees in mid-air.
360s: A 360 is similar to a 180, but involve the rider executing an entire 360-degree rotation in the air.
Nose and Tail Grab: These tricks involve the rider grabbing the end of their board while in the air.
Method Air: This is a complex trick that involves the rider grabbing the board by the heel edge while in the air.
Butter: Buttering is when the rider slides their board across the snow in a surf-like motion.
Cork: A cork is a trick where the rider spins their board in the air while performing an off-axis spin.
Safety Tips for Snowboarding
Snowboarding can be a dangerous activity, so it’s important to take the necessary safety precautions before you hit the slopes. Here’s a quick overview of the safety steps you should take before and during your snowboarding journey:
Wear The Right Gear: Wear the right gear to protect yourself and make sure it fits correctly. Don’t forget to wear a helmet—and if you’re renting gear, make sure they fit correctly.
Stay in Control: Remember that even if you’re an experienced snowboarder, you’re always at risk of injury. With that in mind, stay in control and never do anything on the slopes you’re not comfortable with.
Know Your Limits: Don’t try to tackle terrain that’s beyond your skill level. Stick to terrain that you can ride safely, and push yourself step by step.
Watch for Others: This is especially important on crowded slopes. Always watch for other riders and give them plenty of space.
And most importantly, have fun!
Basic Tips for Staying Comfortable On the Slopes
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, snowboarding can be hard work. To make the most of your experience, you’ll want to stay comfortable and energized. Here are some of our tips for staying comfortable on the slopes:
Stay Hydrated: Taking regular breaks and hydrate, as dehydration can quickly put a damper on your skiing or snowboarding session.
Take a Break: Don’t be afraid to take a break and step off the slopes for a bit. Taking a pause is essential for letting your body recharge, so you can keep going for longer.
Eat: Eating is essential for keeping your energy up, so don’t forget to grab a snack before or during your session.
Stay Warm: Being out in the cold can quickly sap your energy. Layer up and make sure your clothing is suitable for the conditions for maximum comfort.
Conclusion
Snowboarding can be exciting, exhilarating, and a whole lot of fun. But having a basic understanding of the sport can go a long way in terms of having a great experience and avoiding injury. Keep this guide in mind, and you’ll be shredding the slopes and doing tricks like a pro in no time.