Snowboard Club UK (SCUK) :: View topic - How To Get Into Snowboarding As A Beginner

Snowboard Club UK (SCUK)

UK - How To Get Into Snowboarding As A Beginner

TZ - Aug 06, 2008 - 06:57 PM
Post subject: How To Get Into Snowboarding As A Beginner

[EDIT: As Of Suggestions]

OK, i've been going through heaps of snowboarding forums and seen pretty much all the beginner snowboarder advice there is (Well i think so since im starting to see the same things again just in different words). Something I've noticed though is there isn't an actually something along the lines of a step-by-step guide on what to do as a beginner getting into snowboard, instead bits and pieces such as how to buy a snowboard/bindings/boots etc...leaving the newbies to juggle the pieces Mad

So...

...i've decided to take all the how to's and random advice i've seen from people again and again, and turn it into a simple guide, nothing advanced.

(

BTW keep in mind i'm a beginner myself so feel free to correct it or give your opinion on anything that doesn't seem right)

1st: LESSONS!
I've found that most beginners (inc. myself) find they want to get into snowboarding after having a taster session and seem ready to spill plenty of £ on snowboard stuff like it was heroin and their taster session was their first hit. However it seems that it's actually best to take/finish snowboarding lessons until your good enough to board independently and then decide if it's for you rather than spend all your £ and find that it's not all that (sounds impossible I know)
A list of the ONLY indoor slopes in the UK:
<a href="http://www.snozonemiltonkeynes.com">Sno!Zone, Milton Keynes - Milton Keynes</a>
<a href="http://www.snozonecastleford.com">Sno!Zone, Castleford - Leeds</a>
<a href="http://www.snozonebraehead.com">Sno!Zone, Breahood - Glasgow</a>
<a href="http://www.chillfactore.com/main/Snow">Chill Factore, Trafford - Manchester</a>
<a href="http://www.snowdome.co.uk/ski-snowboard">SnowDome, Tamworth - Straffordshire</a>

I've listed these since they're indoor and they're snow which is easiest to learn on. Learning on dry slopes (dendix, snowflex, permasnow) can be more difficult and much more painful to learn on but do help out in the long run. Learning at the indoor slopes above you can either learn part by part during hourly sessions or get boarding by yourself in a day lesson (7-8 hours).

2nd: Snowboard Gear
Of course there's the issue of what we're snowboarding IN.
Here some typical snowboarding equipment in order of importance (RELAX know-it-alls, it's debatable...):

Waterproof trousers + Waterproof jacket are important otherwise you'll finish your slope session feeling like you've just done a water sport rather than a winter sport.

Gloves really are necessary gear for snowboarding (NOTE: you're not allowed to enter the slope in Sno!Zones, Chill Factore or the Snowdome without gloves!)

Impact shorts, wrist guards, helmet for those who feel better safe than sorry.

Goggles are more commonly used in mountains I think but are good for decreasing light that reflects off the snow and can affect the eyes...kinda like sunshades....(lol....snowshades.... Razz

)

3rd: Snowboard Boots
It also seems that in "snowboarding", a snowboard isn't even the most important thing you need as a beginner... Confused

??...well obviously you will need a snowboard along with the rest of the gear but apparently, it would be much better goin to whatever indoor slope with your own snowboard boots that are a perfect fit and rent a near half-decent board rather than....vice versa.
When buying boots you should consider which snowboard bindings you're going to buy (Lok aok elsewhere or asround for more info on that). Your snowboard boots should be pretty much a PERFECT fit, especially as a beginner...having good boots will help you progress much faster. You should avoid buying your boots online and should actually go into a snowboard store and spending as long as it takes to find a good fit (Heard it can take hours....even for guys Shocked

)

4th: Snowboard/Bindings

It's important to consider the points below when buying your bindings and board but it's also very helpful to try and demo different snowboards at your local slope; you're more likely to find a board that suits you right, on your first buy.

Snowboard Bindings

There's quite a few on the market (strap-in, step-in....etc...) however i'm yet to hear a great difference between different bindings, and so far (apart from which you'd like e.g. strap-in) it just seems a matter of style. Also strap-in bindings seem to be the most common.

Snowboard

The snowboard....last?...in snowboarding...?....must have something to do with the saying "you gotta crawl, before you walk". Well the snowboard you get depends on several things to me it mainly seems to be style, weight/height and foot size
Styles include:

Freestyle (soft, short board - making "jibbing" easier, i.e. hitting rails and kickers etc)

Freeride (stiff, long board - for stability at high speeds)

All Mountain (best of both worlds)
Weight/height (Soft for light/stiff for heavy - Generally snowboard should reach around your chin area, but it's all a matter of personal preference)
Foot Size (Determines board width - Important to avoid catching edge)
Other things to think about really would be how much you're willing to spend and of course...snowboard graphics!

5th: Competitions
It's not mandatory as a snowboarder but it can be enjoyable and it's a way and a reason to improve and progress as a snowboarder.

MmMMmMMmMmmMmm...I don't think i've missed anything, sorry if I have but just trying to help out new Snowboarders and SCUKers (looks like suckers!?!?)

Hope this was a good guide....rememba this was written by a newbie!!

And Remember...."Join SCUK as you'll save a heap of £s on all your stuff" Wink

trendkiller - Aug 06, 2008 - 07:34 PM
Post subject: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...if i

yeah I mean you kinda got the basic there. But there are a few misconceptions that you've seemed to included in your guide.

I can't be bothered to get into the finer details but somethings like "soft for light/stiff for heavy" are kinda right but not if you know what I mean. People generally buy soft board for jibbin (pi55ing about on a piste or dome!!) and stiffer boards are more stable at higher speeds so fit in well with cruising on pistes.
Snowboard sizing doesn't really go on the "if it reaches your chin" rule, Its a mixture of what you want your board for (smaller sizes for jibbin & larger sized boards for stability at speed),your weight and your height.

it's a good start anyways!

good luck

GinaG - Aug 06, 2008 - 09:13 PM
Post subject: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...if i

I'd personally say number 6 should be number 3, unless you're going to snowboard in jeans and a hoodie!! Bindings and a snowboard usually come in par as it's not worth having bindings without a board.

Not a bad guide though. There are more options than that for learning though - you need to mention that dryslopes are harder to learn on but can be more beneficial. Also learn in a day or hourly lessons!

TZ - Aug 06, 2008 - 09:20 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...if i

Gina_Schmugle101 wrote:

I'd personally say number 6 should be number 3, unless you're going to snowboard in jeans and a hoodie!!...

LOL! That's exactly what I did on my first lesson! Razz

Didn't get too wet though...

GinaG - Aug 06, 2008 - 09:23 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

If you don't want to get laughed at can i recommend you don't try that one again haha.
Get yourself down to Chiswick and pop into Boardwise before the season starts to look at their bargains - at least for trousers!

PiefaceUK - Aug 06, 2008 - 10:03 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Well, Ill just say, as a little update (I mean Little) That gloves are mandatory in Chill Factore

GinaG - Aug 06, 2008 - 10:07 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Oops sorry i didn't read it properly! Snowboard gear number 2 not number 3! Really equipment isn't as important as clothing - you don't want to have to keep paying to rent it.

Gloves are mandatory at all the slopes i think. Long sleeves also!

charlie - Aug 07, 2008 - 12:09 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Naa, you don't have to have long sleeves on a number of dryslopes. If you want to risk loosing all your skin then it's up to you though Smile

yellowlala - Aug 07, 2008 - 11:05 AM
Post subject:

Tam doesn't have the long sleeves thing either.

GinaG - Aug 07, 2008 - 11:06 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Ahhh they were at Hemel for that reason i think.

Branny - Aug 07, 2008 - 11:17 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

couple of points..dendix (not dendex) is not the only dryslope material, Snowflex (halifax, Warmwell, Sheffield etc) is a good newbie material and Permasnow (any John Nike Centres) is.....special!!!

and the only other point is try before you buy, there are so many "best" board, Boots Binding threads on suck that it sometimes gets more confusing, try and get to a demo night at a local slope, try as many different products as possible, respect your abilities but don't be overly restricted to them, be realistic about where your going to ride...a 167 in a dome is probably pointless unless your 8ft tall and 20 stone...

don't believe the hype...a shop that carries one board brand is going to tell you his is best..theres a whole world out there..we're all individual so make your own judgement..but take advice and warnings from others that can back it up rather than sprout cr@p on forums when they've never ridden/seen the product

good work though..maybe a mod could make it a sticky Razz

hopalong - Aug 07, 2008 - 04:19 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

grr....Permasnow Sad

special indeed...especially when they lay it wrong, making it easy to turn one way, and rather tricky the other Sad

PiefaceUK - Aug 07, 2008 - 04:22 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Can I just ask, what is Permasnow? Ive see a few slopes advertise as they have it, but is it just like a powder put down a slope? Just because I saw Llandudno having it, so when I pass my test thinking off driving there, when i'm a more competent snowboarder.

dunx - Aug 07, 2008 - 04:42 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

Of course you've missed off the "Join SCUK as you'll save a heap of £s on all your stuff". Snowboarding is a drug and SCUK is your dealer, so I'm liking the heroin ref.

There's a great series of articles from MetalJoe about what you can expect from your first few lessons:
http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/learn

Heaps of other stuff for beginners on SCUK too:
Slope Directory : http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/slopes
Slope Safety : http://www.snowboardclub.co.uk/safety

Good work though TZ and welcome to SCUK.

hopalong - Aug 08, 2008 - 02:35 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (

PiefaceUK wrote:

erm, not quite Razz

its more like a carpet of stiff fibres, not really sure what to compare it to, but it reminded me of the 'scratchy' side of a piece of velcro.

www.perma-snow.com/mainadvantages.php wrote:

Advantages for the user
Skiers and snowboarders alike experience a new 'like snow' sensation with the advantage of being safer than traditional dry ski slope materials. The feel, look, and noise of PERMA-SNOW™ makes it a surface that users want to use again and again.

For the varying ski slope
PERMA-SNOW™ comes in different pile densities and heights that can be used on different parts of the same slope. As the shape and angle of the slope change the surface characteristics of the slope can be designed to react differently - just like real snow.

...i wouldnt really describe it as anything like snow, but at least you can ride on it, and its good for developing your technique, as its a bit more tricky.

word of advice- wear long sleeves/ gloves- falling on it at speed isnt much fun! :p

PiefaceUK - Aug 08, 2008 - 08:53 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Ah right, now it just sounds awful.

dunx - Aug 08, 2008 - 10:19 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

But probably still better than Dendix. SnowFlex has my vote.

For people who have a problem remembering that Dendix is called, just remember that it was actually invented by Dennis Dixon.

ace_mcgraw - Aug 08, 2008 - 10:26 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

That is an interesting fact. Thanks Dunx. Personally I prefer Dendix to Snowflex, but that's prob just cos that's what I;m used to. I just find it easier to keep an edge on the stuff!

Branny - Aug 08, 2008 - 05:55 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

real men ride dendix Very Happy

Butterfoot - Aug 08, 2008 - 07:56 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Good work there TZ. You've the bug and I you'll be progressing in no time if you immerse yourself in all things "sideways".

If I may just make a wee consideration regarding gear. When buying kit, buy big. Remember that you'll need a full range of body flex and movement. Windmill and bend your arms to make sure your sleeves don't shoot up past your elbows, squat with your legs apart, checking for room at your knees, thighs and bum and touch your toes, checking that your jacket doesn't come away from the top of your pants. Also important is that you will most likely invest in crash protection. This'll be ass-pads for under your trousers and wrist guards for under your gloves, possibly even a back protector for under your jacket, as well as thermal layers for when you're outdoors.

I suppose every freak is individual but I'm a size up in everything compared to what I might buy for everyday (non-sporting), winter gear. eg I'm a skinny 6 foot guy with a 34 inch waist but I wear L or XL jacket and XL pants for riding.

Dudepool - Sep 02, 2008 - 10:09 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

sorry too point out mistakes but you missed out the Southampton alpine centre Very Happy

TZ - Sep 03, 2008 - 09:12 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

That's alright, but it's not on the list of slopes because I only listed indoor slopes, there are plenty of outdoor slopes throughou UK, Southampton alpine centre wouldn't be the only one

Thanks for the input though

winterfunman - Sep 03, 2008 - 09:51 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (

That gloves are mandatory in Chill Factore

This i so your hand sdont get cold when your waiting to get through the stupid ticket gates or only one poma is working

winterfunman - Sep 03, 2008 - 09:51 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (

That gloves are mandatory in Chill Factore

This i so your hand sdont get cold when your waiting to get through the stupid ticket gates or only one poma is working

TZ - Sep 03, 2008 - 09:57 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Looool, I need to get to Chill Factore and see what's so bad abouy it

Btw I did already added that:

"...Gloves really are necessary gear for snowboarding (NOTE: you're not allowed to enter the slope in Sno!Zones, Chill Factore or the Snowdome without gloves!)... "

But thanks all the same

mcormack - Nov 18, 2008 - 03:19 PM
Post subject: which board?

Hi. I've tried boarding bfore and really enjoyed it, however I borrowed a board etc. Which board is best for me / I'm 5' 11 '', female . Please help as not long before I go !!

dashie - Nov 18, 2008 - 03:33 PM
Post subject: RE: which board?

A rental one!

AndySmee - Nov 20, 2008 - 05:00 PM
Post subject: Re: which board?

mcormack wrote:

Hi. I've tried boarding bfore and really enjoyed it, however I borrowed a board etc. Which board is best for me / I'm 5' 11 '', female . Please help as not long before I go !!

Yep, the hire centre will tell you. As a general rule your middle of the road snowboard should end up somewhere between your chin and your nose when stood on its end in front of you.

And if you're female you'll need a girly looking one Razz

Shroom - Nov 28, 2008 - 04:37 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

I'm a noob (ish) myself and i've found that the most important thing you can take with you on the slopes is confidence. Not cocky-ness mind, that'll end up in pain!

I wear a lid, wristguards and impact shorts whether i'm at CFe or on holiday. If you're not wearing said protection and you hurt yourself bad you may be put off carrying on. Which sucks if you've paid to go away. Also hurting your coccix is really bad as there is nothing you can do about it and considering you use your butt to sit/walk/etc it's best to be safe then sorry, i wear mens Red impact shorts as they have a plastic coccix guard (But each too his own, am not recommending any brands here). Also with wrist guards, you don't have to be going at any speed to snap your wrist. So my advise it to just wear em.

I've got too pair of boots #3 before i feel really and truly confortable and in the space of using them twice in one week i've finally nailed my carving. Your boots are so important so while you are hiring your gear, it's wise to test out a few different sizes/brands. I bought a 4.5 pair of Salomon Ivys, too loose, size 4 DC Judges, too tight, size 4 Ivys BINGO!!! It really is trial and error! I got my new ones fitted at Subvert (who measured my feet and told me i was a 3.5 so a size 4 should be perfect), definately a good idea!

Most of all though remember, don't take yourself too seriously, EVERYBODY FALLS! A mate of mine once said if you don't fall you're not trying.

And have fun, cos thats why we do it right?

Very Happy

n0va - Dec 15, 2008 - 12:46 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a be

Branny wrote:

real men ride dendix Very Happy

How about snow?

Very Happy

Lively_Lozzy - Dec 20, 2008 - 01:36 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Found this very useful, thanks! Smile

Eddbanger09 - Jan 24, 2009 - 12:18 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Hello people, i'm more or less a complete newbie to snowboarding, I thought I'd make my first post here. That article makes a bit of sense to me. I assume that having lessons are the best way to go if you are complete beginner like me! Razz

Anyways I won't go into detail of asking about footwear, clothes and the rest, cause there are seperate forums for all that so I will go and do research for all that Smile

. But still I do have one drawback, is that I'm awaiting treatment on an ankle problem which has plagued me for many years, its finally going to be sorted. I'm aware I can get varoius support things and all that, but should I wait until its sorted?

Anyhow I'm sure that I will find my way around Smile

Snowboarding has always been something that I've found intresting, ever since the Turin Winter Games back on '06. Just always fancied doing it...

(Any if you want to know anything about me, view the myspace link in my sig)

Edd

sophieturner00 - Feb 02, 2009 - 12:47 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

I would also like to know any advice on ankle injuries!? I am currently nursing a broken ankle and I am SO keen to get back on the slopes but I know its a long road to recovery...

Is an ankle support a good idea?? I've also bought some firm boots (was considering them before the accident - if only..!) I'm just lost - I dont know the best approach to getting back on the mountain!! HELP!

winterfunman - Feb 02, 2009 - 06:50 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

seek professional advise .... and take your time as if you dont it may end any mountain activity

gjames2k - Feb 10, 2009 - 02:13 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a be

sophieturner00 wrote:

Well if your not in massive ammounts of pain anymore, why not strap it up, put on some firm boots and try taking it easy at a few indoor sessions to get your confidence back up?

seby1982 - Apr 25, 2009 - 05:57 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...if i

Branny - Apr 25, 2009 - 07:51 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (...i

can someone ban this balloon head above already, pasting repeated posts from other people into dead threads...YAWN!! Razz

alibubi - May 13, 2009 - 03:41 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

hey, great guide so far, just wondering if you want to, it might be helpful tto make a guide to teell people which order to try out tricks in. For example i thought boardsliding would be easier than 50/50'ing a box so the first rail i ever hit i tryed to boardslide, fell and couldn't board for the rest of the holiday lol. obviously its a lot of wor for you, but if evryone posted what they think the logical freesttlye steps are?

craig.gilchrist - Sep 07, 2009 - 09:20 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginner (

dunx wrote:

Snowboarding is a drug and SCUK is your dealer

It really is a drug! I've not been boarding long now (about 16 hours total) and it's all I think about all day every day!

I usually go to Cas on a Wednesday and can count the rest of the week as a low!

stevengeelan - Dec 12, 2009 - 02:57 PM
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I found this info quite helpful, thanks.

Got my first lesson booked at Snozone Braehead next monday and really looking forward to it Very Happy

Dawson - Jan 07, 2010 - 04:33 PM
Post subject:

Thanks for taking the time to write this, the information provided was useful! I have been boarding for about eight years (once a year), but always rented my gear, however, this year I'm going to buy.

Can anyone recommended a good shop either in Cambridge or London for buying board&boots? Somewhere with a good selection of brands as well as help me make sure I choose the right stuff without being too biased?

Rhona30 - Feb 09, 2010 - 03:43 PM
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Hey,

I'm very new and found that quite helpful.

This site in general is brilliant.

fen01 - Feb 20, 2010 - 11:38 AM
Post subject:

hey hey,

yet another newbie to the whole boarding experience with only one 2 hour lesson under my belt. Just answer one thing, am I gonna feel the pain being 40 when learning??

Just wanna say, thanks to Tesco Clubcard for their latest deal. Just picked up 4 x 1hr lessons at MKeynes for £25

Sym0n - Feb 20, 2010 - 02:49 PM
Post subject:

lol Yeah you'll get pain. Get to a gym and work legs HARD, focus on full squats and lunges and that will take the edge off. I'd also highly recommend investing in knee pads.

Most of all though, don't worry. Everyone falls, everyone had to learn. Have fun and you'll have it down in no time.

The Clubcard thing is nice, just a shame they stopped allowing people to use them for rec.

fen01 - Feb 20, 2010 - 07:58 PM
Post subject:

ha ha, knees are shot to buggery anyway. me thinks i'll be investing in a lot of body protection

Dinalli - Feb 20, 2010 - 10:37 PM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a be

sophieturner00 wrote:

Couple of years ago 3 months before doing a season I tore pretty much every ligament going in my ankle to the point it would have been better to break it. Needless to say i was worried i was not going to be able to snowboard.

However a good physio and taking your time and not pushing it too hard at first are all good things.

Get hold of a therma band if you can and do some ankle excersises, this helped a lot.

Strangley snowboarding actually helped in my recovery, as you have to use it all the time snowboarding. I just didnt push it too hard to start with.

FS540 - Mar 04, 2010 - 11:39 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

Good starting guide, I would say if you have friends into it and are way better than you just ride with them if they don't mind going on some of the crappier slopes. Learnt quite fast from trying to keep up with my mates

otang - Mar 18, 2010 - 09:25 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Great that ur all helpin all the beginners, but I don't see or read much in the mags about progressing. Yeah I see lots how to do tricks etc, but not how to turn better or land ur first jump or kicker. it would be good see a section in the mags for this.

sparty - Mar 20, 2010 - 01:46 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Just stumbled upon this site while doing some research into snowboarding for beginners. I've just turned 41 and for my birthday I asked for, and received, snowboarding lessons!. So. on tuesday I take the plunge into the unknown at chill factore. I've got a full day booked so hopefully by the end of it I should at least be able to stand up Very Happy

. The information I've read on here is very good and has gien me a better insight into what to expect on Tuesday. I'll keep you posted.

Jameson - Mar 20, 2010 - 04:31 PM
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Hope it goes well, Sparty.

I'm a complete newbie and found this guide really useful.

I'm saving up for a course of lessons but in the meantime I've got hold of a mountain board and I've been having fun falling off that all week.

sparty - Mar 24, 2010 - 08:38 AM
Post subject:

Well, I did it. I'm now officially a level 3 beginner. What a fantastic day. I was absolutely knackered and sore by the end of it, but it was all worth it. I can highly recommend getting lessons. I'm now looking forward to going again, can't wait Very Happy

fen01 - Mar 25, 2010 - 09:54 PM
Post subject:

Jameson wrote:

if you collect TESCO clubcard vouchers, or know anyone that does, they are doing a deal on 4 x 1hr lessons at any of the snozone slopes for £25 worth of vouchers. dont worry i dont work fro TESCo, have done this deal myself

sparty - Mar 26, 2010 - 03:08 PM
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I do collect Tesco vouchers but I don't believe there's a snozone anywhere near me.

Ramirez - Mar 26, 2010 - 04:07 PM
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sparty wrote:

I do collect Tesco vouchers but I don't believe there's a snozone anywhere near me.

If your having lessons at Chillfactore I'm assuming you're near Manchester so your nearest SnoZone is Castleford. BTW the tesco vouchers are only for lessons 1-4, so your whole day lesson at Chillfactore should hopefully get you to this level anyway.

Keep an eye on the Clubcard website though as last year when it was out of season you could get 2hr's slope time with them.

Welcome to the clan Sparty or should that now be 'Snowboarding Sparty' it has a good ring to it Smile

sparty - Mar 27, 2010 - 08:35 AM
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Thanks Ramirez, I didn't realise castleford was a snozone, just know it as xscape. 'snowboarding sparty', yeah I like that Laughing

tomtea - May 02, 2010 - 12:34 PM
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Ola! People. I'm new and pretty excited about learning, did anyone give any advice RE: learn in a day or in a few sessions?

I want to jump straight in a do a day but will I be able to last a whole day session after a few hours of beginer slams?

milky228 - May 02, 2010 - 08:53 PM
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Waterproof clothes are for mountains admit it, i did my last lesson in baggy jeans and a hoodie infact i've seen people do first lessons in jeans. I sit down to do my bindings and always keep a pair of trousers handy in the locker but never had to change then again only done one recreational :/ Cool

Archelon - May 06, 2010 - 02:02 PM
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tomtea wrote:

I did the whole day lesson and I found it really good, but you have to have a certain level of fitness. I wouldn't worry too much about falling over as you will but they teach you how to do it properly and you won't be going fast enough to do major damage. Do invest in some crash shorts though and maybe some wrist guards as these will help a great deal. The problem with the day lesson is it's very tiring; I am quite fit and I found it completely exhausting - a few of the people even left early. Despite that, I would recommend it - as you want to do it anyway, just go for it!

Oh, and don't wear jeans.... Rolling Eyes

tomtea - May 07, 2010 - 12:43 AM
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Sound, I'm fairly fit so I don't think a day will be too hard...just depends on whether the lady wants to do a day or a few hours. Yeah, I've got waterproofs an ting been skiing quite a few times so they'll do for the meanwhile. I'm dying to get back on a board, should really dig the skateboard out and a ride around.

ocelot0411 - Aug 11, 2010 - 09:03 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

This is really helpful thanks. Just one thing, when you say snow board boots are the most important and good fit is essential, do you mean you are better off with slightly tight ones than too much movement? You see in shoes I would be a 4 but in snowboard boots a four is tight and a five has my feet sliding around so i am guessing 4.5's, or do I live with the snugness of a 4?

Thanks

GinaG - Aug 11, 2010 - 09:47 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

Best thing to do is go to a snowboard shop and try on a few pairs. You'll get an idea for what is the best fit then first hand.

nickmotture - Aug 11, 2010 - 09:54 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a be

ocelot0411 wrote:

Neither is best both are wrong. Every make of boot will fit differently so you need to try loads of makes on to find the ones that fit your foot. Its impossible to say what size you'l be as it can vary from boot to boot, some styles come up bigger than others and some come up wider fitting. There's a boot that will fit perfectly for everyone out there.

fatsuperman - Aug 12, 2010 - 04:35 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

I second what Nick said. I went shopping with a pair in mind as I loved the look, however I may as well have stuck my feet in some pigs and walked about in those. I ended-up trying on about 20 pairs before getting the perfect ones, took ages!

Too loose and you'll likely have less control than you want. Too tight and you'll be in agony, and also find that the slightest movement affects the board.

Comfort is king.

Dave

Starastin - Nov 05, 2010 - 10:37 AM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

hi there !

the guide is even good to refresh my memory.

does anyone know a good snowstuff shop in leeds ?

sherlock - Nov 05, 2010 - 08:37 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

clicky here for the location of a tsa store at the castleford xscape. i'm sure there must be an independent store around too.

winterfunman - Nov 05, 2010 - 09:27 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

a.k.a snowskate is nearish you

RockinSkis - Nov 09, 2010 - 06:43 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as

Wow! This thread dates back all the way to 2008. How interesting! Despite the fact that this thread is about 2 years old, I found it be extremely useful. I still have yet to experience the majesty of snowboarding, but I found the guide to be useful for learning what to expect. I'm a little nervous to get started, but having all this extra knowledge is certainly helpful. Very Happy

Cuillin - Nov 12, 2010 - 10:53 AM
Post subject: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding

RockinSkis wrote:

I'm a little nervous to get started, but having all this extra knowledge is certainly helpful. Very Happy

Looking at your sig I'm guessing you're no stranger to the snow - that has to help! I'd say get on your first lesson and go for it. Also falling over is mandatory (I think, I do little else but am slightly rubbish...)

UltimateWeevil - Dec 14, 2010 - 06:56 PM
Post subject:

Have to say great guide Very Happy

Me and the missus decided to take the plunge and do a taster lesson at our local dry slope (although given the snow recently it had a bit of snow on it) at the weekend and we have the bug BIG TIME we're due to start a course of lessons in Jan and can't wait.

A quick question though, we're thinking of getting a board etc already but wondered if it would be best to do the lessons first or start off with our own kit as I didn't find the hire boots very comfortable.

fen10 - Jan 18, 2011 - 11:38 AM
Post subject:

Hi,

I am going be taking some boarding lessons at my local dry ski slope and I was wondering about kit.

I've got some real cheapo wrist guards from in line skating, but as I tend to fall forward they have done the job so far. http://www.statesideskates.co.uk/produc ... tegory=211 - up to the job, or will they do more harm than good?

Also, impact shorts, are they worth it?

I've broke, so really don't have much money to spend on a sport I don't if I'll take up or not. However, don't want to be all nervy and not enjoy the experience, knowing falling on my a$re for the tenth time that day is really going to hurt. Although, on saying that, I've badly bruised my ribs, had stiches in my head (raced teh next day), sprained my wrist, had hypothemia, and numerous other bruises from sailing, yet I still come back every week for more.

Oh, is it worth taking an all day lesson, or just the 1 hr jobs?

Cheers,

Fen

Burv - Mar 28, 2011 - 09:36 PM
Post subject:

How to get into snowboarding? Thats easy.

Once you are in how on earth do you get out!!!

Branny - Mar 29, 2011 - 06:31 AM
Post subject:

why would you want to?

slidesnowboardstore - Nov 10, 2011 - 05:26 PM
Post subject:

It sounds daft but good padded shorts could save your ass!

Once you've fell a few times on your butt you'll gain confidence in them and less likely to put your hands down. Your lessons should cover falling but if you have time to watch some more competent boarders when they fall they tend to pull there hands in towards there body. Well, most of the time.

slidesnowboardstore - Nov 10, 2011 - 05:28 PM
Post subject:

Woops i meant the padded shorts could save your wrists Surprised

bowsandbutterlies82 - Jan 05, 2012 - 05:08 PM
Post subject: RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: How to get into snowboarding as a beginn

With where to learn I started learning how to snowboard a yr ago...I first went to milton because its well known and the website looked great but then when I wanted to have my slope ready lessons I went to hemel and honestly....the teachers are alot nicer,they give you abit of extra time sometimes and the quality of the snow is alot nicer.

I like milton because after you can go to the cinema and theres a few snowboarding shops so you can look at all the things you might want to buy like boards,jackets etc and Hemel has one little snow and rock shop and a cafe so not as fun at milton but i learnt more there then I did from the guys at milton....

Smile

Spacedeck - Feb 14, 2012 - 12:42 AM
Post subject:

Well I've recently started trying to learn snowboarding. I am learning in Halifax on the other stuff (not 100% on the name). It's like a brush type thing and has holes in what are the shape of diamonds.

So far I have everything from BillaBong waterproof trousers to Analog Asset jacket. Got socks, Demon wristgaurds and I've even manage to get a pair of goggles. Still no bindings / board / boots though.

I have only had one lesson so far but I've got my next lesson booked. I'm going to try have a lesson once a week. When I get better then go onto the slopes inbetween the days I don't have a lesson.

I find the board can be pretty heavy though Crying or Very sad

I never fell too much, only learnt how to turn over with the board on, going down the slope backwards and forwards and slowing it down with your heel / toes then I went down forwards with my heel to a certain section then put pressure on my front leg to turn it into a straight line.

I was using a 150 board and the size came up to just underneath the tip of my nose so I believe that is a good size for me? I used a size 7 boots (same size as my trainers) and they felt very secure. At first it was the case of it felt a little tight at the front, but after I walked in them and got used to them they felt perfectly fine.

This all came about because I have a mate from work who has been snowboarding for 5 years and he invited me to go on holiday with him if I can learn to snowboard Cool

I can see this being no easy task though Sad