How to Ride Steeps on a Snowboard

Learn to negotiate the steeps of a mountain on your snowboard so you can stare down the face of a black diamond run without fear.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski And Snowboard Stone
• Helmets
• Snowboard Bag
• Snowboard Bindings
• Snowboard Boots
• Snowboard Clothing
• Snowboard Goggles
• Snowboard Hats
• Snowboard Leash
• Snowboards
• Waxes
• Helmets

1. 
    

   Stop before you reach any especially steep and unfamiliar stretch of slope.

2. Decide whether you're ready to take the slope in an aggressive or conservative manner.

3. 
    

   Sideslip the steepest part of the slope and traverse back and forth slowly for a safe and conservative means of getting through steeps. This will also help to build your confidence.

4. 
    

   Jump up and pivot your board to face downhill at about 45 degrees to begin an aggressive approach.

5. 
    

   Land your weight on your uphill edge in a controlled skid.

6. Gain control and plan your next turn.

7. Turn your head and shoulders downhill to begin your next turn.

8. 
    

   Jump up and pivot to face 45 degrees downhill in the opposite direction. Land your weight on the uphill edge of your board.

9. Continue in this manner until you are tired and need a rest or until you're out of the steeps.

Tips & Warnings

• Visualize your path through the steeps before you jump in.
• Focus on your turns, staying positive and aggressive about getting through each one. Don't be intimidated by the steepness of the hill.
• Find and establish a rhythm to your turns.
• Learn by performing your best on short steep sections. Then carry your skill to more difficult runs.
• Don't snowboard slopes above your skill level.
• If you find yourself in a dangerous position, you can always take off your board and carry it.
• Snowboarding is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help Sponsored

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on 3/16/2006 Don't slow down or side slide in the steep parts (especially if it's icy), that probably the worst thing you can do because you'll probably slide down the hill on your butt.

on 1/19/2006 It seems counter-intuitive, but it is often easier to ride a steep section more aggressively downhill, then use turns to slow yourself down when the angle of descent eases a little. The key to making this work is that you have practice riding with a little speed, so you don't panic on the steeps.

on 11/22/2005 You will lose control of your board if you lean back. To avoid leaning back, try pushing your shoulders down when turning.

on 11/22/2005 if it is your first time on diamonds, you can often go slower if you stay to the side of trail, as there is normally a lot of thick powder to the sides.

on 11/22/2005 If you decided to take it easy your first time on a steep slope and sideslip, watch out for bumps or moguls. going airborne when not expecting it is a good way to ride down the rest of the diamond on your butt