As you kick off your snowboarding journey, adding a few basic tricks to your repertoire can elevate your experience and impress your friends. While grasping the fundamentals of riding and turning is crucial, incorporating beginner-friendly tricks will boost your confidence and inject some variety and excitement into each run.

Let’s look at a handful of tricks perfect for those still dipping their toes into the world of snowboarding.

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Ollie

A great way to begin is to familiarize yourself with the ollie, a fundamental trick that lays the foundation for many others. While crouching down, use the tail of your snowboard to spring into the air, bringing both feet with you. Experiment with lifting your knees towards your chest to increase height as you become more comfortable. The ollie is your gateway to a world of airborne possibilities.

Nollie

Now, flip things around with the nollie, the counterpart to the ollie. Initiate the jump by using the nose of your snowboard instead of the tail, shifting your weight forward and pressing down on the nose while lifting the tail. This trick adds versatility, making you more adaptable on your board.

Tail and Nose Press

Pressing is all about shifting your weight strategically to lift either the front (nose press) or back (tail press) of your snowboard off the snow. These tricks are excellent for honing balance and control. Begin by gently leaning into either end of the board, lifting the opposite end slightly, and progress to holding these presses for extended periods as you grow more confident.

Butter

Bring style and playfulness to your riding with buttering. This trick involves twisting and flexing the snowboard while cruising on a flat surface. Shift your weight between the nose and tail, letting the board pivot beneath you. Buttering adds flair to your style and helps you become more comfortable with weight distribution.

180s

Once you’ve mastered basic turning, progress to 180s. Wind up your body as you approach a turn, release the tension, and rotate your board 180 degrees. Landing smoothly is essential, so practice on gentle slopes until you feel confident with the motion. Soon, you’ll be seamlessly turning heads with this stylish maneuver.

Falling Leaf

Perfect for gaining confidence and control, the falling leaf is a beginner-friendly method for descending a slope while facing uphill. Create a series of S-shaped turns, allowing you to manage speed and stability effectively. This trick is a valuable tool for developing a sense of control on diverse terrains.

Powerslide

Introduce finesse to your riding style with the powerslide. Slide your snowboard intentionally sideways while moving downhill. To execute a powerslide, shift your weight toward the tail or nose, using your back foot to steer the board sideways. This trick enhances your edge control, adding a touch of flair to your overall riding experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as you venture into the world of snowboarding tricks, keep in mind the importance of safety and gradual progression. Start with the basics, practice on slopes suitable for your level, and always wear appropriate safety gear.

With dedication and patience, you’ll not only enhance your snowboarding journey but also unlock a realm of exciting tricks and maneuvers on the mountain.