Can You Freestyle on a Freeride Snowboard?

Freestyle snowboarding differs from freeride snowboarding in that freestyle snowboards are constructed for speed and quick maneuverability. In contrast, freeride snowboards are constructed for a slower more scenic mountain range type of snowboarding. While you can freestyle with a freeride type of snowboard, you will have to account for some of the mechanical differences between the boards while snowboarding and performing tricks.

Things You'll Need

  • Snowboarding clothing
  • Goggles
  • Helmet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Account for the stance that differs between the boards, which can affect your maneuverability. Freestyle snowboarding places the boarder at a center stance, unlike the freeride board that places the boarder in an off stance near the rear of the board.

    • 2

      Account for the difference in shape of the freeride board. Freestyle boards have a tip and tail of the same shape resulting in a symmetrical shape. A freeride board has a fuller tip and smaller tail, which can effect how the board cuts through the air during turns.

    • 3

      Account for the size of the freeride board. Freeride snowboards are longer, yet more narrow cut than freestyle snowboards, which can effect turns and may not hold the speed of a shorter board.

    • 4

      Account for the weight difference of freeride boards. Freestyle boards are lighter and thinner, making in-air maneuvers easier. Freeride boards are thicker and heavier, which affect the speed of in-air turns. However, freeride boards are quite capable of making quick turns on the snow.

    • 5

      Account for the flexibility of the board. Freeride snowboards are thick, resulting in a less flexible board. Freestyle boards are thin and flexible, making them easy to maneuver in the air and on the snow.