While mountain resorts for snowboarding feature manicured slopes, off-piste runs are often covered with dense deposits of powdered snow. Snowboarding in powder requires advanced balance and board control. The ideal snowboard for riding in powder features a stiff design as well as bindings that have been installed farther back from the center of the deck. The rigid board allows you to power through snow during high-speed maneuvers and hairpin turns. SnowProfessor.com recommends keeping 60 to 70 percent of your body weight on your back leg when riding in powder.
Step 1
Shift your body weight onto your back foot as you approach a deposit of powdered snow. Bend your knees for balance as the stiff snowboard floats above the powder. Lift your front foot to prevent the nose of the snowboard from descending into the powder.
Step 2
Extend your arms parallel to the riding terrain for increased stability. Lean back to transfer your body weight onto the heel edge of the snowboard. Apply downward pressure to dig the edge of your board into the snow.
Step 3
Keep your shoulders parallel with the snowboard as you traverse the powdered terrain. Lean forward to shift your body weight onto the toe edge of the snowboard. Apply downward pressure to allow the edge of your board to penetrate the powder.
Step 4
Turn your head in the direction of the turn as you carve in the opposing direction. Connect your heel-side and toe-side carves to perform an S-turn through the powder. Avoid riding with the underside of your board flat against the snow as this will cause you to catch an edge.
Step 5
Rotate your snowboard to a horizontal position with your back facing down the slope. Lean onto the toe edge of the snowboard to decrease your speed. Practice these basic powder riding techniques to improve your backcountry snowboarding.
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