What Is Mountain Skateboarding?

The sport of mountain skateboarding, also referred to as mountain boarding, is a hybrid of snowboarding and skateboarding. Taking the basic concept of skateboarding and moving it to a variety of outdoor locations, mountain boarding has become a practice all over the world, with enthusiasts in locations ranging from the United States to the United Kingdom and the Ukraine.

  1. Origin

    • While there is no definitive origin of mountain boarding, a 1990 magazine advertisement for a "dirt board" in the newly published "Transworld Skateboarding Magazine" is thought to be the earliest commercial presence for the sport. Manufactured by Supercruiser Inc., the "dirt board" was designed as an all-terrain skateboard. In 1992, Jason Lee and Patrick McConnell designed a prototype for an off-road capable board. Selling them through their new company Mountain Board Sports, the two were among a number of mountain board manufacturers that started throughout the world during the early 1990's, introducing the world market to the sport.

    Equipment

    • The mountain board is a ride-on board featuring special bindings and a pneumatic tire suspension. In addition to the board, riders need a helmet, wrist supports and pads. The helmet, supports and pads are important to maintain the safety of the rider with the high speeds and uneven terrain present during mountain boarding.

    Locations

    • Due to the off-road nature of the board, mountain boarding is possible in a variety of locations. Grass slopes, dirt trails, country roads, skate parks and even standard pavement are all viable locations for mountain boarding. Locations featuring sloped terrain are considered best for successful mountain boarding, allowing for high speeds and jump tricks.

    Governing Bodies

    • Mountain boarding, like other extreme sports, has prompted organized competitions throughout the world. Organizations like the International Mountainboarding Association and the ATBA-UK hold mountain boarding competitions between international teams. Beyond forming competitions, mountain boarding governing bodies provide educational classes, determine rules and regulations and work to promote the sport.