Snowboarders perform numerous variations of the 900 spin off inclined kicker ramps and sloping half pipes. The 900 requires a huge vertical leap as you must execute two 360-degree rotations followed by an extra 180-degree spin. Amateur snowboarders often make the mistake of attempting the 900 without the proper amount of airtime, which can result in painful falls and slide-outs. To maintain control throughout this high-speed spin, hold onto the edge of the board. Professional snowboarder Sage Kotsenburg recommends grabbing the board with your non-dominant hand while using your opposing hand for balance.
Step 1
Bend your knees as you ride towards the kicker ramp or half-pipe.
Step 2
Lean forward while holding your hands behind your back to maintain an aerodynamic stance. Shift your body weight to your back foot while ascending the snowboarding ramp. Begin rotating your shoulders as you near the summit of the ramp.
Step 3
Leap off your back foot while turning your head in the direction of the spin. Grab the outer edge of the board with your non-dominant hand as you complete the first 180-degree rotation. Extend your opposing hand for balance as you continue to spin.
Step 4
Lower your eyes to the ground as you complete the first 360-degree rotation. Release your hand from the edge of the board as you finish the second 360. Keep your shoulders parallel to the snowboard as you descend towards the snow.
Step 5
Bend your knees as the underside of the snowboard touches down onto the groomed mountain slope. Turn your snowboard to a horizontal position on the snow to decrease your momentum.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice the 900 with different grab variations to increase your bag of tricks.
- Wear a polycarbonate snowboarding helmet when attempting the 900. Buckle the safety straps beneath your chin to prevent the helmet from falling off during the high-impact landing.
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