Halfpipe is an exciting and thrilling way to enjoy snowboarding. It’s a professional-level activity that will be front and center at the next Winter Olympic Games. Even if you don’t have Olympic aspirations, there are some ways you can successfully train for halfpipe snowboarding. Keep reading for some tips and techniques to consider, offered by the snow sports experts from ASO Mammoth, your go-to destination for premier Mammoth snowboard rentals, high-quality gear, and exceptional service.
Making Sure You Have the Right Setup
You’ll practice better if you have a proper location or setup for your halfpipe fun. This is also for your own safety, since a poorly constructed halfpipe practice area has the potential to lead to some serious stumbles and falls. A proper location or setup includes:
• A flat space on each wall—referred to as a halfpipe deck
• A frontside wall so you can properly make an approach on the toe edge of your board
• A backside wall to approach on the heel part of your board near the edge
• A halfpipe drop-in that gives you some extra speed so you can start at the top of the drop-in for maximum speed
Some newer halfpipe snowboarders need to work on feeling more comfortable with the front wall. However, this fear can be overcome with practice and proper safety gear that includes knee pads.
Dropping In
If you’re uncomfortable with dropping in, try side slipping down the ramp for a while. Do this by:
• Having your snowboard face the backside wall
• Using your toe side to do a drop-in over an area where there’s less of a slant
• Bending your knees slightly so your knees get more air
Wrap things up by carving along the backside wall. You’ll then transition to the front portion of the wall.
Riding Halfpipe Walls
It’s not too important to worry about getting air when you first start riding walls. Instead, get used to how riding the walls feels so you can gain more control. Ride the walls effectively by:
• Working your way up along the frontside wall by using the toe edge of your snowboard
• Placing pressure on the heel portion of your board-front foot
• Making sure your foot in the front is positioned downhill
• Shifting heel pressure to successfully make it to the other wall
• Doing the same thing on the other wall
• Placing pressure on the toes of your front foot when you start to slow down and shifting back to the toe edge of your board
Working on Your Body Alignment
Lastly, make sure you have the right posture for halfpipe. This means shifting your weight as you go from one wall to the next and changing directions so you don’t end up taking a tumble. Additionally, you’ll want to keep your shoulders in line with the terrain and keep your knees slightly bent. It can be difficult to stay level with terrain that’s constantly shifting, but it can be done with practice. You’ll appreciate the improved control and stability.
If you want more advice on snowboarding or you need to pick up some gear before you hit the slopes, drop in and see the friendly team at ASO Mammoth. While you’re here, you can get your board waxed or take advantage of the highest-quality snowboard rental in Mammoth. 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.