Going to snowboard for the first time on Sunday. Tips?

Question

I've skiied but never snowboarded but want to get into it. My son (7) loves it so we got him set up with board. I purchased a Ride snowboard package at Sports Chalet for $599.

Ride Havoc Snowboard, Ride Haze boots and Ride EX Bindings.

Good deal?

Answer 1

I also skiied for a long time and just started snowboarding. I would say that you should wear a helmet and get wrist guards. Learn how to stop first. Stay on the easies slope and practice that. When you stop turn your board horizontally and then lean back. When you start you will probally fall a lot, but you will get used to it.

Answer 2

Keep your knees bent and your butt down. Keep the board straight (horizontal) to stay slow. Shift your weight between each foot to change directions.

Answer 3

Keep your knees slightly bent but don't bend over to touch or drag your back hand on the snow (you will just spend the day falling if you pick up this bad habit). Make sure you are comfortable standing on your board so your knees aren't straining. (shoulder with plus an inch or two). If something doesn't feel right then adjust your stance so you are comfortable. Everyone is built differently so one guys stance is NEVER right for the next guy.

Best tip: Take your front hand and point straight down the mountain (in front of you and over the nose of the board) Now, when you want to turn frontside or backside just point where you want to go but, MAKE SURE TO TURN YOUR WHOLE UPPER BODY AT THE WAIST NOT JUST YOUR ARM AT THE SHOULDER! Your front shoulder will always steer you. This will train your whole body to move the right way so you can steer yourself. You will look a little funny holding your arm out and pointing where you want to go but it will only take a few runs to figure it out. Trust me...it works. I have been snowboarding for 20 years and have taught people with the pointing method without ever seeing them ride.

Answer 4

that is not a good deal..y would u buy a 7 year old stuff when hes gona outgrow it your gonna spend 600 $$ a year u should just rent...

Answer 5

Take an introductory lesson: it is worth it - you will save yourself lots of frustration.  Very little translates from skiing to snowboarding.  

The Ride deal that you got sounds pretty good.  Have fun!

Answer 6

Not to be mean or anything, but you will fall alot if its your first time. Try and fall on your backside. If you have to fall on your front side try not to have your arms stop you. This is a good way to break your wrist. Trust me I've done it before. And yes that was a good deal because buying them seperatly it would have cost you close to 800 dollars. Have a good time