How to Absorb Terrain When Snowboarding Powder

Powder is the favored kind of snow for most snowboarders. Its deep pillows of freshly-fallen flakes make jumping, carving and landing easy, and it doesn't hurt nearly as much to fall on as crust, ice or slush. However, powder does tend to hide small changes in the terrain that can easily throw you off if you're caught unawares. Here's how you can absorb the mountain's bumps and make the most of your run.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for suspiciously bumpy areas of powder that might be hiding rough terrain. Much like river rapids and choppy ocean currents, the powder's shape gives you clues about the geography of the snow base.

2. Carve down steep sections of the mountain to control your speed. You'll have an easier time absorbing patches of rough terrain if you're not hitting them at high speeds.

3. Bend your knees while you ride. This creates natural shock absorbers in your legs that'll eat up whatever the mountain throws at your board.

4. Extend your arms to improve your balance when riding through bumpy sections of snow.

5. Land jumps with your knees flexed and your board flat on the snow. Flexing your knees helps absorb the jump's impact, and flattening your board keeps you on balance and prevents catching an edge.

6. Keep your upper body centered over your board while you ride. Bending too far forward at the waist makes it harder for you to absorb the terrain without losing your balance.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch out for rocks, tree stumps and crevices when riding powder. Because it's light and fluffy, it can cover these dangerous objects with a thin layer of snow.

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