What Are the Cons of Snowboarding?

If you have never tried snowboarding, there are several things you should know before you start snowboarding. Here are some of the pros and cons of this sport.

All-mountain Snowboards are a Little Stiffer

All-mountain snowboards are a great choice for riders that like to mix things up on the mountain. They have the flexibility to ride on anything from powder, to groomers, to jumps. Choosing a board is a fun and exciting process.

All-mountain snowboards come in a variety of shapes, sizes and camber profiles. It's important to consider what you're riding before choosing a board. Generally, an all-mountain board will have a set back stance, but it's also a good idea to look for a board with a slightly directional shape.

If you're an experienced rider, you may prefer a stiffer board. These offer more edge grip and stability when speeding through the snow. On the other hand, beginners and intermediates will have more fun on a softer board. Softer snowboards make turns easier and give more freedom for carving and ollies.

Freestyle Snowboarding is Similar to Skateboarding

The two sports have similar names, but differ in many ways. One is more complex and requires a lot of expensive gear, while the other is a lot more accessible.

A skateboard is generally made from bamboo or maple wood, while a snowboard is wrapped in fiberglass layers. Depending on what kind of sport you want to try, you can choose between short or long boards. Short boards are easier to spin. Long boards are usually for racing, but they are also suitable for riding in the snow.

Both sports require a decent amount of practice. But the best part is that you can do them almost anywhere. You can try jibbing on the street or slamming down the mini-ramp.

Skiing is Easier to Pick Up Than Snowboarding

Whether you are a newbie or an old pro, snow sports can be challenging. There are a lot of things to learn before you start snowboarding. However, if you have the patience and tenacity to get it done, you will find it's an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.

Aside from the obvious, skis are easier to master. This is especially true when you are using chair lifts. It's also a great way to make the most of a short vacation.

In comparison, snowboarding is much harder to master. This is particularly true if you have never tried it before. You will need to spend a little time learning how to maneuver your board and stay upright. Unlike the skis, there are no rails or tracks to guide your feet.

Ski Resorts are More Expensive Than Snowboarding

The ski industry has become more and more consolidated. Companies like Vail Resorts have reshaped their business model. They are more oriented towards creating value for customers. This includes offering up-sell products and services.

As a result, ski resorts have copied some of the pricing strategies used by airlines. For example, there is a multi-resort pass that lets you skip the ticket window line. And there are even cheaper season passes.

The cost of skiing has also increased in recent years. Ski areas are beginning to charge for daytime parking. However, there are still some great deals for price-sensitive shoppers.

A good way to save money on your ski trip is to pack lunch. You can store it in your backpack at the base of the mountain.

Injuries

If you are a snowboarder, then you are already aware that you are at a high risk for injuries. This is especially true for lower extremities. But a significant number of injuries could be avoided by simply wearing protective gear.

One of the most common types of snowboarding injuries is a wrist injury. These occur most often after a rider falls backwards and puts his hands out to protect himself. A fracture, ligament or dislocation is a common result.

Other serious head and spinal cord injuries can also occur. The best way to prevent a head injury is to use a helmet. However, you can still get hurt without a helmet.

Cost

The cost of snowboarding is something that many people aren't aware of. There are a variety of hidden costs that make the sport a bit more expensive than it might appear. These include equipment and lessons.

However, there are ways to lower the cost of snowboarding. One of the easiest is to buy or rent a board. A newer, quality board can be purchased for less than $200.

Another is to buy a board that is made for your specific riding style. If you are going to be doing a lot of freestyle and jumps, you can save money by buying a board that is specifically designed for these tricks.