7 Tips for Traversing on your Snowboard

In this video by SnowboardProCamp, the narrator provides seven helpful tips for traversing on a snowboard. The first tip is to adjust the highbacks forward, which makes it easier to maintain the heel edge on the snow. The second tip suggests riding with the body in a seated position to keep the weight balanced and prevent the edge from slipping. Additionally, the narrator advises keeping the back hand over the tail of the snowboard for better balance and straighter board positioning. Another tip is to try riding switch on the toe edge, as it proves to be more manageable for traversing. Bending the knees forward on the toe edge helps maintain control and absorbs the bumps on the traverse. Overall, these tips aim to assist snowboarders in improving their traversing skills so that they can reach their desired destinations with ease.

Hey, it’s Kevin from SnowboardProCamp! I’m currently on a long traverse around Mt Bachelor, and I wanted to share some tips with you guys on how to navigate those lengthy traverses. One useful tip for traversing on your heel edge is to crank your highbacks forward, ensuring that your heel edge stays securely in the snow. Another helpful suggestion is to position your body in a seated position, balancing the weight over the heel edge without sliding out. Keeping your hands over the nose and tail of your board aids in maintaining balance. If you’re confident with riding switch, try traversing on your toes, as this edge tends to be more suitable for long traverses. Remember to bend your knees forward while on the toe edge to keep your edge in the snow and absorb any bumps along the way. Give these tips a try, and I hope they make your traverses more enjoyable. Stay safe and catch you in the next video!

Tips for Traversing on your Snowboard

Traversing on a snowboard can be challenging, especially when you’re faced with long traverses. However, with the right techniques and tips, you can make traversing a much smoother and easier experience. In this article, we will provide you with seven tips for traversing on your snowboard. From adjusting your highbacks to absorbing bumps on the traverse, these tips will help you improve your traversing skills and make your snowboarding adventures more enjoyable. So let’s dive in and explore each tip in detail.

Tip 1: Crank Your Highbacks Forward

Highbacks play a crucial role in snowboarding. They are the vertical plates attached to the back of your snowboard bindings that provide support to your calves. By cranking your highbacks forward, you can make it easier to keep your heel edge in the snow while traversing. This helps maintain control and stability, preventing your board from sliding out. Adjusting your highbacks is simple – typically, there is a lever or dial on the back of the binding that allows you to adjust the highback angle. Experiment with different angles until you find the one that works best for you.

Tip 2: Ride in a Seated Position

When traversing on your snowboard, it’s essential to maintain proper balance and weight distribution. Riding in a seated position can help you achieve this. By keeping your body in a seated position, you ensure that your weight is balanced over your snowboard. This prevents your edges from sliding out and gives you better control over your movements. To ride in a seated position, bend your knees slightly and lower your center of gravity. This will help you maintain stability and control while traversing.

Tip 3: Keep Your Back Hand over the Tail

Another tip for better traversing on your snowboard is to keep your back hand over the tail of your board. Your hands play a crucial role in balancing, and keeping your back hand over the tail helps you maintain stability and keep your board pointed straight. By doing so, you distribute your weight evenly, making it easier to maneuver and control your snowboard while traversing. Keep your arms relaxed and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.

Tip 4: Try Riding Switch on Your Toe Edge

Switch riding refers to snowboarding with your non-dominant foot forward. While it may take some practice to get comfortable with riding switch, it can be beneficial when traversing. Riding switch on your toe edge makes traversing easier compared to riding regular. You have better visibility and control over your movements. To ride switch on your toe edge, pivot your board so that your non-dominant foot is forward, and position your weight slightly on your front foot. Practice riding switch on different terrains before attempting it on traverses.

Tip 5: Bend Your Knees Forward on Your Toe Edge

Maintaining the correct body position is essential while traversing on your toe edge. One way to do this is by bending your knees forward. When you bend your knees forward, you keep your edge in the snow and maintain control over your movements. It also helps absorb bumps on the traverse, providing a smoother ride. To bend your knees forward, focus on pushing your shins into the front of your boots and keeping your weight centered. This will give you better control and stability.

Tip 6: Absorb Bumps on the Traverse

Traverses can often be bumpy, causing instability and discomfort. To minimize the impact of bumps and maintain control, it’s crucial to absorb them effectively. Absorbing bumps involves bending your knees and using your legs as shock absorbers. When you approach a bump, allow your knees to flex, absorbing the impact as your snowboard passes over it. This technique helps you maintain balance and stability, making traversing a much smoother experience.

Tip 7: Practice and Stay Safe

As with any skill, practice is key to improving your traversing abilities. Spend time on your snowboard, specifically focusing on traversing techniques. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become. It’s essential to remember safety precautions while traversing. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as a helmet and wrist guards. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings and follow all mountain safety guidelines. Traversing may not be the most exciting aspect of snowboarding, but it’s necessary to reach new zones and explore the mountain safely.

Conclusion

Traversing on your snowboard can sometimes be challenging, but by applying these tips, you can make the experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Remember to adjust your highbacks forward, ride in a seated position, and keep your back hand over the tail of your snowboard. If you’re comfortable with switch riding, try traversing on your toe edge. Bend your knees forward to maintain control and absorb bumps effectively. Finally, practice regularly and prioritize safety while traversing. By implementing these tips and techniques, you’ll improve your traversing skills and have a more fulfilling snowboarding adventure. So buckle up, hit the slopes, and have fun exploring new zones!