How to Learn Skiboarding

Not skis, not snowboards--they're skiboards! Skiboarding combines the fun of both sports, and learning to skiboard is much easier than learning traditional skiing. Even beginners can start having fun right away because skiboards are shorter than regular skis and are easier to control, turn and stop. Check out these basics for learning to snowblade and get ready to jam! Read on to learn more.

Instructions

    • 1

      Get some equipment. Rent while learning, or buy a set of skiboards. Also known as snowblades in some areas, they're about half the price of downhill skis, and the bindings are included. You don't even need poles! Skiboard gear can be found at nearly every place that caters to winter sports enthusiasts.

    • 2

      Start in the proper stance. Squat forward, bending knees over ankles just until you can no longer see your boots. Stay low and keep your rear end tucked in.

    • 3

      Balance by keeping your feet apart about the same width as your shoulders and hips. This is a wider stance than traditional skiing or in-line skating and gives skiboarders more lateral stability.

    • 4

      Stretch your hands out in front while keeping the skiboard or snowblade tips up and your weight on your heels. This weight shift makes up for the skiboards' shorter length and helps maintain balance.

    • 5

      Scissor your skiboards by keeping the uphill ski a little more than half a boot length ahead of the other ski. This helps maintain stability during turns and high-speeds.

    • 6

      Take a lesson or two. With a couple of hours' instruction in skiboarding, you'll be carving like a pro. Most ski resorts and winter sports areas offer lessons.

    • 7

      Read how-to articles on skiboarding or snowblading in "Skiboard Magazine" and other ski and winter-sports related publications and websites. Many of these sources have beginner information and videos available to teach you to skiboard.