Snowboards come in a multitude of shapes and sizes to accommodate the numerous riding disciplines. While some snowboarders concentrate on hitting breakneck speeds, others practice high-flying stunts over box jumps and ramps. The snowboard often features a pliable wooden core as well as a polyethylene underside. The outdoor specialists at REI recommend a snowboard that features a twin tip design if you want to pursue slope-style maneuvers. Follow a few simple steps to maintain control of the snowboard throughout your downhill ride.
Step 1
Lower your snowboard onto the ground at the bottom of the mountain. Place the boot of your dominant foot into the lead snowboard binding. Tighten the ratcheted binding straps around your boot.
Step 2
Push off the snow with your opposing boot to coast toward the ski lift. Align your back foot over the snowboard's stomp pad as you exit the lift. Place your back foot onto the snow as you slide to a stop.
Step 3
Fasten your back boot into the rear binding of the snowboard. Rotate the snowboard until the rounded nose points toward the bottom of the hill. Shift the bulk of your body weight onto the rear binding as the snowboard travels forward.
Step 4
Lean forward onto your toes to dig the front edge of the snowboard into the snow. Stretch out your arms for balance as the snowboard begins to turn. Bend your knees to compress your riding stance and decrease wind resistance.
Step 5
Transfer your body weight onto your heels to dig the back edge of the snowboard into the snow. Turn your shoulders in the direction of the turn as you glide across the mountain slope. Lower your hand toward the ground while turning in case you lose your balance.
Step 6
Shift your body weight between the opposing edges of the snowboard to perform a smooth S-turn down the mountain. Steer toward a small jump on the snowboarding slope. Bend your knees to a 45-degree angle as you approach the ramp.
Step 7
Lean back as you ascend the jump. Apply downward pressure with your back foot as you reach the summit of the jump. Extend your legs to leap skyward as the tail of your snowboard bends.
Step 8
Lift your knees toward your chest to keep the underside of the snowboard parallel to the snow. Extend your dominant hand toward the outer edge of the snowboard. Grip the edge of the snowboard to perform a beginner trick known as an Indy grab.
Step 9
Release your hand from the snowboard as you descend toward the ground. Bend your knees as the board makes contact with the snow to prevent a painful landing. Lean forward to maintain your speed while cruising to the bottom of the mountain.
Step 10
Turn the snowboard a quick 90-degrees with your chest pointing toward the bottom of the hill. Lean onto your heels to allow the snowboard to skid across the snow. Unfasten the straps of your rear binding as you slide to a stop.
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