Backcountry snowboarding offers a thrilling, fun way to explore untouched powder and protect yourself from avalanches. But it takes a lot to get the basics down before you head out into the mountains.
First things first: know your gear
Be sure to check that all the gear in your backpack is working correctly before you go. Learn how to put on and change your skins, for example. It may take several attempts to get comfortable with the process.
Always carry a map and compass when you're out riding in the backcountry. It is essential to avoid getting into trouble and to return safely home after your trip.
Always check the forecast to see if there is an avalanche risk and conditions before going out. This can help you decide if the snow is safe for your level of skill and experience, or whether it's too dangerous to go skiing in the backcountry at all.
If you're not comfortable riding in the backcountry, stay within the boundaries of a ski resort or take a lift-accessed tour. You'll then be in a controlled area with ski patrol protecting you and your friends against hazards such as avalanches.
Get educated
A course on avalanche awareness and rescue is the best way to get going in the backcountry. The local snowboard club and other outdoor organizations often offer these courses, which can range in price from free to $50.
Getting certified is the most important step toward backcountry snowboarding safety. Taking AIARE's Avalanche Awareness, Avalanche Rescue, and Avalanche 1 courses will give you the knowledge and skills you need to ski a variety of terrain and understand the potential dangers of avalanches.
Start with a small area and gradually work your way to more challenging and extreme terrain. If you are planning on riding the backcountry with a buddy, it's a good idea for them to do so in a controlled area at the same resort.
Get familiar with your backcountry gear
Make sure you know how to use the shovel, avalanche detector, and probe in your pack before you leave. Some local snowboard clubs rent out these items, so you can test them in a controlled setting before going on your own.
Bring extra gloves/layers. A liner or waterproof mittens will usually be sufficient to keep your hands warm. Bring a hat, sunglasses and a liner to protect your hands from the cold.
Be aware of the surroundings. Even with the best gear, you still run the risk of being struck by another rider or falling. Be aware of what's around you and keep an eye out for anyone who might be able to help.
Consider the possibilities - it's tempting, on a powder day, to try every face shot that comes to mind. However this can be dangerous in the backcountry. Choose lines and faces with low avalanche risk, especially if there is a high avalanche threat in the area.
FAQ
Who takes part in the extreme?
Extreme sport is open to everyone, regardless of age or ability. Extreme sports interest children just as much,
You can play tag, dodgeball and capture the flag with younger children. Older children may join teams to compete with others.
Adults can either participate in team sports or individual sports. There are many options to choose a team.
You'll probably need to ask someone who's already done it to show you how to start playing.
How long does it take for you to learn to ski/snowboard?
You might not be able learn how to snowboard right away.
The majority of people learn at five years old. Some children begin to learn when they are just two years old.
What companies are most likely to sponsor extreme sports?
Companies that sponsor extreme sports events, such as BMX racing, skateboarding, snowboard competitions, etc., are typically large corporations with large advertising budgets. They also tend to be active in their local communities. Coca-Cola is a sponsor of many sporting events in North America. Coca-Cola also supports youth camps and programs at the local, national, and international levels. Coke also sponsors the annual Coca-Cola Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon in New York City. Around 100,000 runners come from all walks of the world to participate in this event.
What is the most hazardous sport in extreme sports?
It is snowboarding because you must balance on top of a board while falling off a mountain at high speeds. You could die if you fall off the wrong way.
Statistics
- Since 1998, overall participation has grown nearly 25% - from 5.2 million in 1998 to 6.5 million in 2004. (momsteam.com)
- Nearly 30% of all boardsailors live in the South, and more than 55% of all boardsailors live in cities with a population of more than two million people (momsteam.com)
- Boxing— 90% of boxers suffer brain damage over their careers, and this is not surprising in the least, considering that they are throwing punches at each other's heads. (rosenfeldinjurylawyers.com)
- Nearly 40% of all mountain bikers have at least graduated from college. (momsteam.com)
- Nearly 98% of all "frequent" roller hockey participants (those who play 25+ days/year) are male. (momsteam.com)
External Links
How To
How do I begin base jumping?
Base jumping is also known as parachuting or free-fall. It involves jumping from fixed objects such as buildings, bridges and towers without any equipment. To land safely, the participant must jump off the object. The process is very similar to skydiving. However, you do not need to wear a parachutee and don't have hold your breath while waiting for the parachute to open.
A wingsuit-type base jumper, is the most commonly used. A wingsuit has two pieces of fabric, which are sewn together. The chest, arms and legs are covered by one piece and the legs by the other. Special boots are worn by the jumper that allow him/her stand upright in flight. The jumper pulls on the straps to his/her feet to descend. This causes the material covering the legs and legs to bunch up. This creates a large air pocket underneath the jumper. When this air pocket becomes big enough, the jumper opens his/her parachute and lands safely.
Base jumpers can use powered suits in order to accelerate their speed through the air. Two main components of powered suits are a backpack with batteries and a pack that can be worn underneath the jumper's clothing. These small rockets shoot hot gas jets at high speeds from these packs. This creates thrust, which propels the jumper forward. However, these suits can be heavy and loud.
BASE jumping is not for everyone. If you decide to learn how to BASE jump, make sure you understand the risks involved. You can fall off a height, get hit head-on or upside-down, or collide and injure another jumper. Although BASE jumping can be dangerous in some cases, it can also prove to be extremely dangerous if done wrong. Before you attempt to BASE jump, make sure you follow these safety tips.
Begin by learning safe BASE jumping techniques on a smaller hill. Before jumping from a bigger hill, you should take a few moments to become familiar with the terrain. You should also be alert for weather conditions. If the wind isn’t blowing, don’t jump. Foggy skies can also be a problem. If you are unable to see 10ft ahead, it might be best to wait until the clouds clear. You should also ensure you have the correct gear. Make sure you have a helmet, goggles, gloves, and a full suit with a harness. Fourth, you should have a plan. Ask someone to join you if things go wrong before you leave the ground. Never, ever jump alone. Always have someone watching over you.