Adrenaline Sports > Snowboarding

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Snowboarding

This is the fastest growing winter sport with millions of riders storming down mountains all over the world. Snowboarding's roots lie predominantly in surfing and skateboarding. The sport materialised in America in the 60s and 70s when surfers went went off in search of new highs. Snowboarding and the equipment has changed dramatically over the years and it is now at the forefront of youth culture, helping to dictate music and fashion. At first boarders weren't allowed on slopes due to the well established ski industry. Now however ski resorts are actively encouraging boarders and are developing facilities that can be used in the most adverse weather conditions including jibs, rails, jumps and pipes.

Snowboarding no matter what level you're at is an absolute must for anyone with a bit of 'get up and go'. It's a sensational feeling burning down a mountain with the fresh mountain air and awesome views. Each day of boarding brings new and exciting challenges. There's always room for improvement whether you're into freestyle, technical style, freeriding and freecarve/Alpine.

·       Freestyle: As the name suggests this type of boarding is to do with everything and anything. Freestyle focuses on jumps, rail slides, tricks, half pipes and switch riding. Boarders will use softer boots and slightly shorter boards for maneuverability.

·       Technical Freestyle: This style of boarding involves swinging back and forth in a half pipe and pulling off jumps and spins.

·       Freeriding: This is also called 'all mountain riding' and is the most general style where boarders spend most of their time on the ground. Freeriders prefer the mountain experience of open terrain, fresh powder and the back country. This style is definitely the most suitable for beginners and suitable equipment would be soft boots and a board that's longer and more directional in shape.

·       Freecarve/Alpine: This style is all about speed, carving and racing and takes place on hard-pack or groomed runs. The boards used for freecarving are stiff, long and narrow with a curved nose and flat tail to give the rider more stability.