Although certain snowboarding slopes feature groomed or icy terrain, others are covered with thick layers of powder snow. Powder snow often is found on an off-piste or off-mountain terrain that is not located within the confines of a public or private snowboarding resort. Compared to snowboarding on a groomed slope, riding on powder requires advanced balance and board control. According to REI, snowboards designed for powder riding feature a specialized U-shape known as the rocker. The rocker shape allows you to stay afloat in powder snow deposits.
Step 1
Select a snowboard for powder riding that features a wide nose, an extended waist and a concave shape. Fasten the binding retention straps around your boots to secure the board in place. Point the front end of the powder snowboard down the slope to initiate the riding process.
Step 2
Bend your knees to a 45-degree angle as you approach a deep mound of powder snow. Shift your body weight onto the rear binding. Raise your front foot to elevate the nose of the snowboard above the powder.
Step 3
Extend your arms for balance as your board descends into the powder snow. Lean onto your heels to allow the sharpened edge of the snowboard to slice through the powder and make contact with the ground. Employ this technique to perform a sweeping turn across the mountain slope.
Step 4
Shift your body weight onto the toe-edge of the snowboard to carve in the opposing direction. Utilize the turning technique to navigate around any hazards that have been embedded in the powder snow. Lower your hand to the ground when performing hairpin turns to prevent a high-speed slide out.
Step 5
Decrease the momentum of your snowboard by rotating it horizontally in the powdered snow. Distribute your body weight evenly between the two bindings to avoid losing balance during the braking technique. Release the binding retention straps after your snowboard slows to a stop.
Tips and Warnings
- Move your bindings back a few inches when riding a conventional snowboard in powder.
Things You'll Need
- Powder snowboard
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