Methods for the Steepest Descents

Cutting edge snowboard companies glamorize extreme snowboarding. Videos promote talented athletes risking their lives to undergo adrenaline-inducing descents. As an onlooker, watching these feats is as exciting as performing them. Yet, as a participant, you need expert-level skills and a calculating mindset to pull off a steep descent safely. If you think you have the ability to navigate the "steeps," don't disregard methods that may ultimately save your life.

  1. Terrain Evaluation

    • Before launching over the edge, evaluate the terrain you are about to descend. Consider the slope angle, slope aspect, terrain features and snowpack stability to assure your safety. If a cornice is present, navigate the slope by descending the ridge away from the cornice's apex. Test the snowpack by digging an avalanche pit and studying the snow's layers. Choose a route that is not an obvious slide path and always devise a "Plan B" as an emergency option.

    Visualize Your Decent

    • The key to successful backcountry descents is confidence in yourself. By visualizing the route in your head, you stoke the fire for a flawless performance. Picture your turns, your airs and your terrain navigation as if you were actually riding. When you eventually drop in, you will have a sharper awareness should things go south and you need to make split-second decisions.

    Riding Technique

    • The individuality of riding styles is what snowboarding is all about. However, when considering steep terrain, there are a few specific techniques that you need to implement. Always keep your weight moving forward and your center of gravity low. If you start your descent in the back seat, you will ultimately loose control. Let your front foot be your guide and confidently initiate all turns from this point. Utilize hop turns through the steepest section. If the chute is only as wide as your board, avoid slide slipping. This dangerous move will scrape away your stable snow foundation.

    Speed Control

    • Every rider dreams of descending the steeps like the pros do -- fast and furious. Adopting this technique could be fatal. Pointing it through narrow sections may be the only way to go, yet scrubbing speed is essential to maintain control. Don't be afraid to skid your back foot to drop speed. This technique gives you time to process and adequately complete the next turn. Knowing when to speed up and slow down will help you decipher the terrain inconsistencies that lie ahead.