Starting a New Winter Sport: How to Snowboard for Beginners

Are you interested in learning how to snowboard but aren’t sure how to get started? Snowboarding is an invigorating sport that challenges you athletically and allows you to see beautiful sites.

However, snowboarding definitely comes with a learning curve, and you’ll likely find yourself stumbling and falling a lot when you get started. Luckily, with a few basic tips, you can come to your first snowboarding session prepared.

Read this guide on how to snowboard for beginners to learn what you need to know before you hit the slopes!

Choose the Right Board and Gear

As a snowboarder, you’re only as good as your board and gear. If you’re starting, you may want to rent gear, as buying the gear can be expensive. You can find out more about renting here.

When you’re ready to buy, choose a board that comes with a rocker camber. Rocker cambers ensure that you won’t catch edges as much when you’re learning to turn, allowing for a smoother ride.

You also want to make sure you get boots and a helmet that fits right, as this will ensure safety and comfortability on the slopes.

Take Snowboarding Lessons

While you might be tempted to just go for it, we highly recommend taking snowboarding lessons when you’re first getting started. This will help you build a good foundation and learn the right techniques.

Instructors will teach you how to stand up properly and avoid falling. They’ll also teach you snowboarding etiquette and what to do if you find yourself in a dangerous situation. Most mountain resorts offer snowboarding lessons onsite, and you can even sometimes buy packages at discounted rates.

Bend Your Knees and Look Ahead

Bending your knees is probably the most important technique to keep in mind when snowboarding. Bending your knees gives you more control over the board and helps you keep your balance.

While your knees don’t need to be at a full 90-degree angle, try to keep them slightly bent at all times. Additionally, remember to always keep your eyes forward and focus on where you want to go.

This will ensure you stay on the right path. It can be tempting to look down at your feet, but this will likely cause you to plunge into the snow.

Ride Across the Slope

If you’re scared about losing control of your board as you ski down the mountain, try riding across the slope. This way, you’ll go from the left side to the right side and back again.

If you maintain that movement, you’ll have much better control of the board, and you’ll be less likely to wipe out. We also recommend sticking to the bunny slopes for your first few rides.

While many people think the bunny slopes are for kids, they’re really for anyone who needs some practice! Riding the bunny slopes will allow you to practice your technique and give you more confidence before hitting the big slopes.

How to Snowboard for Beginners: Time to Hit the Slopes!

Now that you’ve read this guide on how to snowboard for beginners, it’s time to get started. With a little practice, you’ll be cruising down the slopes in no time.

Check back in with our blog for more snowboarding tips!