How to Toboggan

How to Toboggan thumbnail
Wooden toboggan.

Toboggans differ from sleds because they have no rails underneath them. Instead, these snowbound boards reduce friction by having finely sanded and polished surfaces which are coated in a layer of wax. Toboggans tend to be much heavier than sleds and often travel much faster down hills, but they are also difficult to steer and can be dangerous if ridden improperly.

Things You'll Need

  • Sled wax
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Instructions

  1. The Steps

    • 1

      Place the toboggan at the top of a hill. Make sure your path is clear of trees and other dangerous obstacles.

    • 2

      Sit facing forward. Do not lie head first or stand, as this may cause injury.

    • 3

      Choose a driver if there are multiple riders. This is usually the front person, since they have the clearest view of the course. Other riders will want to follow the directions the driver leans toward to steer effectively and avoid crashing.

    • 4

      Using your hands, push against the ground until the toboggan is moving on its own. Run hands or feet in the snow to help steer the toboggan, or to serve as brakes if you are going too fast.

Tips & Warnings

  • Seat children in between adults on the toboggan to maintain control and prevent the children from getting hurt. Wear helmets to safeguard against injury.

  • Do not jump off the toboggan midrun. You could hit a rock under the snow and injure yourself. Avoid putting too much weight at the front of the toboggan and increasing its chances of tipping over.

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References

  • Photo Credit Photo courtesy of Duchamp on Flickr

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