Mountain boards are a form of extreme sports apparatus much like a skateboard but with the ability to travel on off-road and dirt surfaces. Mountain boards use gravity and momentum to propel themselves and can attain relatively high speeds. They can also be used to perform a wide range of different moves and tricks.
Key Features
Mountain boards have many similar features to a skateboard, although their individual parts are specifically tailored to off-road use. The deck of a mountain board is of an over-sized design similar in size to a snowboard. Trucks are heavy duty and reinforced for the rigors of off road use and wheels are also over-sized, with thick treads to allow them to travel over bumpy surfaces. They are also often inflatable, to provide cushioning and shock-absorbing benefits. However, mountain boards also have some key individual features, including feet bindings that keep riders connected to the deck of the board rather than allowing freedom of foot movement, and optional braking systems to aid controlled riding.
Influences
Mountain boards are based on a wide range of different extreme sports boards and riding experiences. They are designed to provide similar styles of riding to snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding, and MBS Mountain Boards says that these similarities mean they offer year-round training benefits for people who take part in these sports.
Who Can Use a Mountain Board?
According to MBS Mountain Boards, almost anyone can ride a mountain board. MBS does recommend that riders should be at least 6 years old and weigh at least 50 lbs., although this is largely dependent on experience levels and ability. There is no age limit, and many people in their 60s continue to enjoy mountain boarding.
Where are Mountain Boards Used?
Although mountain boards are equipped to handle off-road conditions, they can be used on a variety of different surface types, including pavement, dirt roads and grassy slopes. According to MBS Mountain Boards, only a 5-degree angle is required to provide a mountain board with enough speed to perform turns, and only deep snow makes mountain board use impossible.
Mountain Board Safety
Since mountain boards are ridden largely on unstable terrain and at high speeds, you should wear full safety equipment at all times when riding. This includes a helmet, arm and knee guards and wrist guards. Sturdy clothing and footwear is also recommended to provide you with extra protection when using a mountain board.
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