Freestyle Snowboarding Gear: The Best Way to Shred.
Freestyle snowboarding is one of the most exhilarating sports around, and if you’re looking to get into the sport then you’ll need the right gear. Stocking the right snowboarding gear for freestyle will make all the difference when you’re out on the slopes, so if you’re wondering what snowboarding gear you should be considering, then read on.
Snowboarding Gear 101
Before heading out to buy your gear, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the different types of snowboarding gear. The four main types of gear are a snowboard, boots, bindings, and protective gear.
Snowboards
A snowboard is the most important piece of snowboarding gear. Your board will be your best friend when you’re out on the slopes, so it’s important to find one that suits your style of riding.
Freestyle boards are typically shorter, softer, and more flexible than all-mountain or freeride boards, which makes them great for tricks and jumps. If you’re just getting started, then a freestyle board is a good choice, as it will give you the maneuverability and versatility that you need.
Bindings
Bindings connect your snowboard to your boots and they should be comfortable and secure. Freestyle bindings are typically softer than other types of bindings, providing you with the flexibility and cushioning you need while you’re performing tricks.
When you’re picking out bindings, make sure that you try them on with your boots to ensure the right fit and comfort. Pay close attention to the type of straps the bindings have, as well as things such as highback rotation, ankle straps, and toe caps.
Boots
The boots you choose should be comfortable and supportive, and you’ll also want them to be waterproof and warm. Freestyle boots are typically more flexible than other types of boots, providing you with the mobility you need to get the most out of your board.
When you’re trying boots on for size, make sure that you pay attention to the support and the fit. The lacing system is also important, as it should provide you with the support and adjustability you need when you’re out on the slopes.
Protective Gear
Besides your main gear, it’s also a good idea to wear protective gear when you’re out on the slopes. This includes things such as a helmet, goggles, knee and elbow pads, and a back protector.
These pieces of gear are essential for keeping you safe while you’re snowboarding, so make sure to invest in some quality gear that fits you well.
Different Freestyle Snowboarding Techniques
Now that you know the basic gear you need, let’s take a look at some of the different freestyle snowboarding techniques that you can use to take your game to the next level.
Jibbing
One of the most popular freestyle snowboarding techniques is jibbing. Jibbing involves sliding or riding along different terrain, such as rails, boxes, and even trees. Jibbing is a great way to practice your balance, control, and maneuverability, so it’s definitely a technique you should practice.
Jumping
Another popular freestyle technique is jumping. Jumping involves launching yourself off of jumps and adding tricks to the air once you’ve left the ground. When you’re jumping, it’s important to keep your body loose and your board level, and to always be in control of your landing.
Spinning
Spinning is another freestyle technique that involves performing rotations in the air. Spinning is a tricky maneuver and it takes a lot of practice to get it right, but once you’ve got the hang of it, it’s one of the most rewarding freestyle snowboarding techniques there is.
Sliding
Sliding is a basic freestyle snowboarding technique that involves sliding across the ground. Sliding is a great way to practice finding your balance and maintaining control as you move across different surfaces.
These are just a few of the most popular freestyle snowboarding techniques, but there are plenty more that you can use to take your skills to the next level.
Tips for Choosing the Right Freestyle Snowboarding Gear
Once you know the basics of freestyle snowboarding and the various techniques you can use, you’ll need to find the right gear to get you out on the slopes. Here are a few tips to help you find the right gear:
• Make sure the gear is comfortable and supportive. The gear you choose should fit you well and provide the support and flexibility you need.
• Choose a snowboard that’s well-suited for freestyle riding. A freestyle board is typically shorter, softer, and more flexible than other boards, and this will give you the mobility and maneuverability you need for tricks and jumps.
• Pay attention to the boot lacing system. The lacing system should provide you with the support and adjustability you need when you’re out on the slopes.
• Comfort is key. When you’re trying on gear, make sure that everything is comfortable and supportive.
• Don’t forget your protective gear. Wearing a helmet and other pieces of protective gear is essential for keeping you safe while you’re out there riding.
Conclusion
Freestyle snowboarding is an exhilarating way to enjoy the slopes, and with the right gear you can take your skills to the next level. Having the right snowboarding gear for freestyle is essential, so make sure to choose your gear carefully and find pieces that suit your style of riding. Once you’ve got the basics down, then you can start practicing the various freestyle snowboarding techniques and enjoy freestyle snowboarding to the max.
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