While some snowboarders enjoy laid-back rides on mellow slopes, others strive to hit breakneck speeds on a steep terrain. High-speed maneuvers are one of the most exhilarating yet dangerous aspects of snowboarding. Losing control for a split second could result in painful slide-outs and bone-crunching collisions with trees or fellow riders. According to the outdoor experts at REI, a rigid snowboard will help you feel comfortable, as it offers increased stability at high speeds.
Step 1
Wear a carbon fiber or polycarbonate snowboarding helmet to feel comfortable during high-speed maneuvers. Choose a snowboard that features a stiff design to decrease the amount of speed vibrations. Ride down the snowboarding slope with your non-dominant foot in the lead position.
Step 2
Bend your knees as the momentum of your snowboard increases. Keep your front foot slightly elevated to prevent the nose of the snowboard from catching an edge. Extend your arms parallel to the snow for increased stability.
Step 3
Distribute your weight evenly across the top of the snowboard while preparing for a high-velocity turn. Lean quickly between your heels and toes to navigate around any obstacles in the riding terrain. Apply downward pressure onto the edges of the snowboard to avoid sliding out.
Step 4
Keep your shoulders parallel with the snowboard throughout your high-speed maneuvers. Perform a quick jump to get comfortable with the technique. Lean onto your back foot to use the tail of the snowboard as a springboard.
Step 5
Pull your knees to your chest while keeping the bottom of your board parallel to the snow. Bend your knees as the board descends onto the snow to ensure a comfortable landing. Point the nose of the snowboard down the slope to maintain your speed.
Things You'll Need
- Snowboard helmet
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