The conditions of the snowboarding slope vary based on the location of the riding terrain. As opposed to the manicured slopes located within a mountain resort, backcountry trails are covered with deep deposits of powdered snow. Even the simplest of powder riding maneuvers require increased balance and board control. To prevent yourself from sinking into the powdered snow, you'll need to use a specialized snowboard that features an extended waist. For increased turning efficiency in powder, Snow Professor.com recommends keeping 60 to 70 percent of your body weight focused on your back leg.
Step 1
Choose a backcountry snowboard that features a binding setback of one to three inches. Ride across the powdered slope with your nondominant foot in the lead. Bend your knees to lower your center of gravity.
Step 2
Hold your arms parallel to the riding terrain as you reach a comfortable speed. Transfer the majority of your body weight onto your back foot while preparing to turn. Lift your front foot to prevent the nose of your board from digging into the snow.
Step 3
Lean onto the heel edge of your snowboard to perform a fluid carve across the backcountry riding terrain. Lower your hand to the ground if necessary to avoid losing balance. Shift your body weight onto the toe edge of the snowboard as you begin to lose momentum.
Step 4
Apply downward pressure to ensure the toe edge of your snowboard penetrates the powder. Keep your shoulders parallel with the snowboard as you traverse the mountain slope. Lean back onto the heel edge as you begin to lose momentum.
Step 5
Connect your heel-side and toe-side carves to perform a rhythmic S-turn down the backcountry slope. Rotate your snowboard to a horizontal position as you reach the bottom. Practice the turning technique to improve your edge control in powdered snow.
Things You'll Need
- Backcountry snowboard
Member Comments