It’s not an easy accomplishment, but with hard work, determination, and patience, you can master riding a halfpipe on a snowboard and add some creative flair of your own. It’s best if you take it slow when learning to ride so you can process the steps and avoid injuries. The snow sports experts from ASO Mammoth, your premium destination for Mammoth snowboard rentals, gear, and service, offer this advice to help you ride a halfpipe on a snowboard safely and with more confidence once you’ve mastered some of the basic skills.
Stance
When going up the wall, you must be perpendicular to maintain a smooth ride. Remember to keep your stance low and centered, and always anticipate the hop turn. Maintaining the proper position can keep your knees relaxed and prevent you from getting caught up in triangle knees, which is a problem that could lead to flexion and extension challenges you need to avoid. When practicing your stance riding up the wall, take your time, and be patient. Trying to rush the process could prevent a smooth, easy ride.
Drop-In
The drop-in is one of the essential aspects of riding a halfpipe on a snowboard. When done correctly, the drop-in will guide your run. Therefore, you should come in from the air, as opposed to the outside of the pipe. Riding parallel to the wall could increase your speed due to the height. You must avoid touching the wall when you’re flat. Failing to do so could decrease your speed and lead to dangerous consequences.
Trust
Avoid looking at the coping when you’re going up the wall. Many people are scared they’ll fall at this point, and the distraction could push them off the wall. Looking up at the sky can prevent you from focusing on the coping, and changing things—such as modifying your posture or turning your shoulder position—increases the odds of changes in trajectory. If you trust your pipe, it can carry you and reduce your risk of landing in the flat. By allowing the pipe to take off naturally, you don’t have to push off the wall. It’s okay to be cautious about the ramp, which is why you should learn as much about halfpipes as possible so you can read them better.
Safety
What works well for one person may not be in your best interests. Always know your limits when riding a halfpipe on a snowboard. There are different factors to consider, such as the kind of board you use and the type of slope or terrain park you’re practicing in. Flexible boards are often better at absorbing impact, and when the snow is soft, it’s a good idea to practice jumping on the halfpipe on a slope. You should look into comfortable and safe body armor, especially if you’re a beginner. Watch safety videos and read literature about riding a halfpipe on a snowboard, and sign up for advanced lessons.
If you want more advice on snowboarding or you need to add some gear before you hit the slopes, drop in and see us at ASO Mammoth. While you’re here, you can register for a tour, get your board repaired, or take advantage of our Mammoth snowboard boot rental. No matter what you need, we’ll do our best to make your experience memorable. Stop by just to say hello, or give us a call at 760-965-3444.