A Guide to Snowboarding

 January 2, 2024

Snowboarding is a thrilling winter sport that has gained immense popularity over the years. It offers a unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and adrenaline. From the slopes of renowned resorts to the backcountry wilderness, snowboarding has evolved into a lifestyle for many enthusiasts.

What is Snowboarding?

Snowboarding involves descending a snow-covered slope using a snowboard attached to the rider's feet. Essentially, you're strapped onto a single board, racing down snow-covered slopes, carving turns, or launching off halfpipes. It's an exhilarating sport that combines elements of surfing, skateboarding, and skiing. It's a bit like surfing on snow, providing a wild ride that defies the conventional, offering a heady mix of speed, agility, and rebellious flair. All of these factors make snowboarding a popular choice among younger generations. This adrenaline-pumping ride combines speed, style, and pure courage, making it the go-to choice for thrill-seekers and adventure junkies.

Snowboarding vs. Skiing

The main difference between snowboarding and skiing lies in the equipment and techniques. Snowboarding uses a single wide board where both feet are strapped in, facing sideways, offering a different balance and movement style compared to skiing, which uses two separate skis with the feet positioned forward. The stance and movement in snowboarding are more akin to surfing or skateboarding, providing a distinct experience on the snow. While skiing is about grace, snowboarding is about grit—nailing those badass jumps and owning the mountain with a sideways stance that screams “cool.”

A Primer on Snowboarding Slang

Snowboarding comes with its own culture and lingo. Some common terms include:

• Freeride: Snowboarding in natural, ungroomed terrain outside of designated snowboarding parks.
• Gnarly: A term used to describe something that's extreme, difficult, or awesome in snowboarding. This term has spread to more general mainstream slang over the years.
• Shredding: The art of snowboarding itself, tearing up the slopes with every turn, especially in a stylish and skilled manner.

Spotlight on Torah Bright

Australian professional snowboarder Torah Bright perfectly embodies the sport's fierce spirit. Bright attacks the halfpipe with a ferocity that is both awe-inspiring and downright badass. She won a gold medal at the 2010 Olympics and a silver at the 2014 Olympics. Her dedication and skill have made her a role model and an inspiration to snowboarders worldwide.

Best Places to Snowboard in the US and Canada

North America is home to some of the world’s best snowboarding destinations:

• Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada: Known for its vast, challenging terrain and deep powder.
• Banff, Alberta, Canada: Renowned for its stunning scenery and varied runs.
• Park City, Utah, USA: Offers world-class snowboarding parks and pipes.
• Vail, Colorado, USA: A popular destination with extensive backcountry access.
• Aspen, Colorado, USA: Known for its four expansive ski areas, this is where the snowboarding elite come to play. Aspen's slopes are a mecca for those who live to ride hard and party harder.
• Mammoth Mountain, California, USA: Known for its long season and diverse terrain.
• Tahoe, California, USA: Offers diverse snowboarding landscapes ranging from serene and scenic tree-lined runs to thrilling and hardcore terrain parks where only the brave dare to tread.

The Importance of a Satellite Device for Snowboarding

In the untamed wilds of backcountry snowboarding, carrying a satellite device like the Motorola Defy Satellite Link by Bullitt Group or a SPOT satellite communication device isn't just smart—it's essential. When you're pushing the limits far from the safety of cell coverage, these gadgets are your lifeline in emergencies, your only link to civilization.

Overwatch x Rescue: A Safety Net for Snowboarders

For snowboarders who dare to defy the ordinary, Overwatch x Rescue is your guardian angel. Overwatch x Rescue is an emergency SOS subscription service that provides valuable and potentially life-saving services for snowboarders who push their limits, especially when you’re shredding in the backcountry. Overwatch x Rescue’s emergency assistance services have no altitude limitations, ensuring that help is accessible regardless of how high your snowboarding adventures take you.

One thing to keep in mind is that Overwatch x Rescue’s services are not available for any race or competition where there is a financial reward or prize money involved. However, outside of competitive scenarios with monetary rewards, snowboarders can have peace of mind knowing that Overwatch x Rescue’s services are ready for them to use.

Overwatch x Rescue provides peace of mind, knowing that emergency response and expert help are just a call away, even in the most remote snowboarding locations. As snowboarders seek new challenges and terrains, understanding the sport, embracing its culture, and prioritizing safety is key. With the right equipment, attitude, and the backup of Overwatch x Rescue, you're not just riding the slopes—you're owning them. Ride hard, but ride safe, knowing Overwatch x Rescue has got your back, ready to swoop in when the going gets gnarly.