How to Do a Shifty When Snowboarding

All snowboarders who want to add combination tricks to their arsenal need to first master the basics. The shifty is an aerial move where you spin your board 90 degrees to one side, then flip it back to your original direction. While many other flips and twists keep your body moving in a single direction, the shifty requires you to turn your board without letting the momentum turn your body. The key is control your core, flipping your hips and feet but not turning your shoulders and upper body.

Instructions

    • 1

      Accelerate towards your jump area with enough velocity to catch air.

    • 2

      Jump as you begin to take off so that you pop up and gain some air. Your weight should be evenly distributed with your shoulders and hips aligned.

    • 3

      Turn your board 90 degrees. Your front foot will pull back and your back leg will kick up. Your body weight and shoulders will remain controlled and should be not leaning in any way.

    • 4

      Pull your back leg back and flip your front leg back to its original position. Brace for the landing by keeping your board flat.