While the various stances and riding styles of snowboarding might appear similar, there are a few key differences that set them apart. Choose an all-mountain board if you wish to partake in the myriad terrains and disciplines that snowboarding has to offer. Regardless of the style you prefer, wearing a polycarbonate helmet will keep you safe on the slopes.
Regular
In snowboarding, your stance refers to the position of your feet while riding down the mountain. The regular snowboarding stance is one of the dominant foot positions. According to the 360 Guide, a regular snowboarding stance involves riding with your left foot in the lead position. Snowboarders who have a dominant right foot often prefer the regular riding stance. Test out the regular snowboard stance on a mellow slope to see if it feels comfortable.
Goofy
The goofy snowboarding stance is another of the dominant foot positions. Snowboarders who prefer to ride with their right foot in the lead position have what is known as a goofy stance. If you have a dominant left foot, the goofy snowboarding stance might offer increased balance and board control. When riding in the goofy stance, use your right foot to guide the nose of the snowboard.
Switch
Snowboarders who perform freestyle jumps often ride in the switch stance to increase the difficulty of their maneuvers. The switch stance is the exact opposite foot position that you normally ride in. If you regularly ride with your left foot in the lead position, your switch stance will place your right foot in front. In snowboarding competitions, switch stance tricks often receive the highest scores.
Slope Style
The younger generation of snowboarders often gravitates toward the discipline of slope style. As opposed to more conventional types of snowboarding, slope style takes place in a specialized obstacle course defined as a terrain park. Slope style snowboarders often slide rails, fiberglass boxes and perform aerial jumps off inclined ramps. According to The House Boardshop, slope style riders generally ride shorter boards that feature a flexible design.
Downhill
Downhill snowboarders participate in high-speed races that take place on finely groomed courses and trails. As opposed to the twin tip snowboard, the downhill snowboard features a rounded nose with a flattened tail. According to ABC-of-Snowboarding, the rigid design of the downhill snowboard offers increased stability at breakneck speeds. Use the sharpened edges of the downhill snowboard to perform fluid turns. The downhill snowboard allows you to reach speeds of more than 30 mph.
Backcountry
Often referred to as off-piste riding, backcountry snowboarding takes place on an untouched mountainous terrain. As opposed to the groomed runs of the snowboarding resort, backcountry riding involves floating through deep deposits of powdered snow. The backcountry snowboard often features an elongated design for increased stability during high-speed carves. Always ride with friends to avoid getting stranded in the backcountry.
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