How to Hit a Down Rail in Snowboarding

Snowboarding is a sport that allows riders to perform a variety of tricks and maneuvers. One of the key tricks that any serious snowboarder should know is hitting a down rail. This trick involves the rider jumping onto a rail and either grinding on it vertically or sliding on it horizontally. Although it might take several attempts to get the hang of it, following six steps should help most snowboarders learn to successfully hit rails.

Things You'll Need

  • Snowboard
  • Boots
  • Helmet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a down rail on a small slope with a minimal amount of people around. When first hitting rails, it's important to start off small and gradually work your way up to steeper rails. You should also be wearing a helmet to prevent a serious head injury from occurring.

    • 2

      Ride up parallel to the rail with your knees slightly bent while keeping your eyes focused on the upper part of the rail. If you want to grind the rail, your body should be positioned so that the rail is in front of you. If you want to slide down the rail, your body should be positioned so that the rail is facing your back.

    • 3

      Lift your snowboard off the ground just before you approach the rail and land on top of it. This is done by bending your knees and jumping onto the rail, also called an ollie. If you are going to grind, you should land with your board facing vertically on the rail. If you are going to slide, you should land with your board facing horizontally on the rail.

    • 4

      Keep your weight centered as much as possible once you're on the rail. Keep your eyes focused on the lower end of the rail and keep your knees bent. Avoid leaning backward because it will throw off your momentum and could cause a fall.

    • 5

      Lift your snowboard up slightly when coming off the end of the rail. If you are grinding vertically, you will want to lean back on your tail. If you are sliding horizontally, you will want to spin your snowboard 45 degrees to the front so that you are parallel with the slope when you land.

    • 6

      Bend your knees slightly to absorb the shock and ride away as cleanly as possible.