What do I need to get started in the sport?

You’ll need lots of patience and determination to start with but the learning curve is really steep and you’ll be racing down blue slopes in no time. The easiest way to describe snowboarding is that it’s like surfing on snow. It’s a little weird the first time you try it as both your feet are strapped to a board but if you get into a flowing surfing motion, look in the direction the board is heading in, bend your knees, tuck in your butt and line up your body with the board… you’re away!

Where can I learn?

There are loads of places in the UK you can try boarding before heading out to the Alps or North America. Check on the Natives website to find your nearest dry slope. There are also a couple of indoor slopes in the UK with real snow that are open all year round. It’s worth having a lesson or two in the UK before you head off to a resort as this will save valuable time once you’re out there. If you want to do some research into resorts, a couple of guides I’d recommend are the World Snowboard Guide or Storm Rider Guides published by Low Pressure.

What equipment do I need to start me off?

You can hire a board with bindings, boots and helmets at most slopes in the UK or in resorts. It would be worth investing in a pair of gloves, wrist guards (trust us, there’s nothing worse than busting a wrist in the first few days….) hat and goggles. Once you’ve been bitten by the bug, get yourself a good outer jacket and pants.

Is there a basic fitness level required at entry level?

The fitter you are the longer you can ride for. Exercising a few times a week before your holiday is time well spent as you’ll get so much more out of your trip.

Any big events coming up?

European events such as the Brits in Laax Switzerland, plus the annual World Tour events.

Do you know any good websites?

www.snowsportgb.com
www.natives.co.uk
www.soulsports.co.uk
www.snowboardclub.co.uk
www.snowdome.co.uk