Ideas for Snowboarding Rails

After you find you are comfortable on a snowboard going down a mountain, it may be time to try out some basic tricks. The easiest way to start learning snowboard tricks is on a grind rail, a straight-edge sturdy piece of equipment. You can use several items as a grind rail, such as a bench, stairwell rail, a wooden box or an actual snowboarding grind rail.

  1. Nature-Made Rails

    • There are several things you can use throughout nature as a snowboarding rail. These are best used if you are more advanced at snowboarding, with the skill level of being comfortable on a regular grind rail that is made for snowboarders. Things in nature to use as a snowboarding rail include thick, large fallen trees, logs or smooth-edged rocks. Examine these items before you attempt using them as a rail, though, for nicks in the edges that could catch your board and send you to injury.

    A Handrail

    • Handrails are everywhere, especially around ski resorts. They can be on either side of a stairwell, down the middle or on both sides. These are ideal because they are just regular snowboarding grind rails (that are made for snowboarders) and as they are sturdy, straight and even edged. The only drawback is if you fall, the stairs do not provide a comfortable landing like the usual soft snow.

    A Box Edge

    • A box edge is usually what beginner snowboarders practice on before attempting a regular snowboarding grind rail. It is lower to the ground while providing stability and an even edge, but if you fall it won't hurt as much. Use a plywood or wood box that has at least three edges. Place it open-side-down on the ground (if there is an open side), and make sure it is placed against something sturdy so when you jump onto it, it will not slide away or fall over. Ideally, the box will be about three to four feet wide and you can push it against a wall, so there is enough room for you to slide across it with the pressure from the wall holding it still. See References for directions on how to make your own snowboarding grind rail box.