How to Backside Air on a Snowboard Halfpipe

Turning backside is turning your chest down the transition so that your back faces up the slope. Backside airs are awesome to watch and fun to do, and set the foundation for a whole array of aerial variations.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

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

1. Spend some time riding the halfpipe so that you're comfortable doing both frontside and backside curve turns high on the wall of the pipe.
2. Add a little extra to your hop at the top of your backside turn to release your weight from the board as you turn. Once you're doing this, you're basically already doing backside airs.
3. Approach the wall on your uphill rail, facing downhill.
4. Absorb the transition by bending your knees as you ride up it.
5. Use the bend in your knees to jump up as you reach the peak of your turn.
6. Turn your chest to face down the transition, and turn your board 180 degrees to face back down the transition as well.
7. Keep your eyes on the spot where you want to land.
8. Land on the transition with your knees bent to absorb the impact.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you're comfortable with your backside air, grab the heel edge of your board with your front hand. This is how the backside air should really be done.
• Grab the heel edge between your feet with your front hand for a method air.
• Grab the toe edge between your feet and extend your legs as much as possible for a mute air.
• Grab the toe edge between your feet with your back hand for an indy air.
• Try to do your jumps higher and higher as you get more comfortable with your landings.
• Don't try halfpipe aerials until you're ready. There are a lot of fundamentals to be learned on the slopes before you attempt dangerous tricks on the halfpipe.
• 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.