Freestyle Snowboarding: Guide

Freestyle snowboarding involves performing jumps, spins, slides, and much more on both artificial and natural obstacles. It is an exciting sport combining traditional snowboarding with tricks. Freestyle snowboarding became an Olympic sport in 1998, featuring an impressive halfpipe course. Freestyle snowboards are ideal for all rider levels and are an excellent choice for beginners due to their softer and forgiving flex.

Freestyle Snowboard Features

Freestyle snowboarding is practiced on various features, each offering unique opportunities to perform tricks:

• Big Air: A ramp allowing large amplitude jumps.
• Halfpipe: A half-cylinder shaped structure where riders chain aerial tricks.
• Rails and Boxes: Metal bars or flat structures on which snowboarders slide performing tricks.
• Walls: Vertical walls used for acrobatic tricks.

These features can be found in snowparks or be natural elements found in the mountains.

Basic Techniques in Freestyle Snowboarding

To progress in freestyle snowboarding, mastering certain fundamental techniques is essential:

• Grabs: Grabbing the board with the hand during a jump. For example, the mute grab consists of grabbing the frontside edge between the two feet with the front hand.
• Rotations: Performing horizontal rotations in the air, such as 180° or 360° spins.
• Slides: Sliding on rails or boxes while maintaining balance and performing tricks.

It is recommended to start on small features and progressively increase difficulty to minimize injury risks.

Choosing your freestyle snowboard

Choosing the right board is crucial for optimal freestyle practice. Here are some popular models:

K2 Afterblack

The K2 Afterblack is designed for riders seeking a versatile board with medium flex. It offers a combination of camber underfoot for responsiveness and rocker at the tips for tolerance. This board is ideal for park tricks and all-mountain descents.

Rossignol Juggernaut

The Rossignol Juggernaut is a stiff board designed for advanced riders. Its twin shape and symmetrical flex make it perfect for aggressive freestyle. It excels in precise carves and offers excellent stability at high speed.

Lib Tech Skate Banana

The Lib Tech Skate Banana is renowned for its hybrid profile combining rocker and camber, offering a playful and forgiving ride. Equipped with Magne-Traction® technology, it ensures good edge hold on hard snow. It is an ideal board for riders wanting to progress in freestyle while having fun.

Tips for starting freestyle snowboarding

For freestyle beginners, here are some recommendations:

• Master the Basics: Before attempting features, make sure you have good control of your turns and stops.
• Start Small: Practice on small jumps and boxes to build confidence and technique.
• Look Ahead: Focus your gaze on where you want to go, it helps maintain balance.
• Use Appropriate Gear: Wear a helmet and protective gear to minimize injury risks in case of falls.

Perseverance is key in freestyle. Each rider progresses at their own pace, the important thing is to stay motivated and practice regularly.

Find a wide selection of equipment on our online store Snow Concept, specialist in ski, snowboard and accessories equipment.

For personalized advice, contact us (info line: 09.63.00.76.65 or via our contact form), our technical advisors will guide you in your ski purchase.