Riding in powder

There are different styles of snowboard riding for different types of conditions. When riding on the east coast it is important to keep in mind that generally you are not riding in powder. Therefore, you must keep your stance leaning forward or centered on the board in the “triple threat” basketball position.

It is only when riding in powder over about four inches or so do you want to start shifting your stance more toward your back foot. This is because if you are riding in powder and do not shift your weight back from the general centered stance the nose of your snowboard will dive into the snow sending you flying forward. This can be painful especially on your knees since you are strapped to the board.

When the snow is falling resorts generally do not groom the slopes. When the slopes are groomed the snow is distributed evenly across the slope. However, when they do get fresh snow they usually do not want to pack the snow down so that people can enjoy the feel of the fresh powder. This causes lumps, bumps, or moguls to form. When this happens you really want to lean farther back than usual. This will help keep the nose of your board up, and will make it easier for you ride over top of these bumps on the slopes.

Another tip I have to give to those who are lucky enough to ride fresh powder on the east coast is to think of your legs as shock absorbers. You want to keep your knees bent a little more than usual, and let your legs be relaxed. This will help you ride over the ungroomed snow much easier, and keep up from falling. Riding on fresh powder requires you bounce around more so than on typical east coast hard pack.