Beginner's Guide to Easy Snowboard Tricks: From Zero to Hero on the Slopes
Let's be real - you're tired of just cruising down the bunny slopes. You want to start throwing some easy snowboard tricks, but everywhere you look, it's either too complex or too intimidating. I get it. I was there too.
Here's the truth: learning snowboard tricks isn't as scary as you think. I'm about to break down everything you need to know about getting started with basic snowboard tricks that'll make you look like you know what you're doing.
Why Start with Easy Snowboard Tricks?
Look, I've seen too many people try to pull off advanced moves before mastering the basics. That's like trying to run before you can walk. Starting with easy snowboard tricks builds:
Muscle memory that'll save your butt when you try harder stuff
Confidence that makes learning advanced tricks 10x easier
Basic board control that every solid rider needs
Essential Gear for Learning Basic Snowboard Tricks
Before we dive into the actual tricks, let's talk gear. You don't need anything fancy for beginner snowboard tricks, but you do need:
A well-fitted snowboard (not your buddy's hand-me-down that's too big)
Proper boots that actually fit
A helmet (non-negotiable - trust me on this one)
Impact shorts (your tailbone will thank me later)
Wrist guards (optional but recommended)
Your First Easy Snowboard Tricks: The Foundation
1. The Ollie: The Building Block of Snowboard Tricks
Think of the Ollie as the alphabet of snowboard tricks. Here's how to nail it:
Start on flat ground
Bend your knees (more than you think you need to)
Push down on your back foot
Jump and lift your front foot
Level out in the air
Land with bent knees
Pro tip: Practice this standing still first. Yeah, you'll look weird, but who cares? Better to look weird for 5 minutes than eat snow all day.
2. The 180: Your First Spin Trick
Once you've got the Ollie down, the 180 is your next move in mastering easy snowboard tricks. Here's the breakdown:
Start with a regular Ollie
Wind up your upper body slightly
As you pop, unwind and look over your shoulder
Keep your eyes on where you want to land
Land with bent knees (sensing a pattern here?)
3. Nose and Tail Presses: Style Points for Days
These easy snowboard tricks look way cooler than they are hard to do:
Nose Press:
Shift your weight forward
Lift your back foot
Keep your arms steady
Look ahead, not down
Tail Press:
Same thing but backward
Weight on your back foot
Front foot comes up
Try not to fall on your face
Common Mistakes When Learning Easy Snowboard Tricks
Let me save you some pain:
Not bending your knees enough (seriously, bend them more)
Looking down instead of ahead
Trying tricks at high speed before you're ready
Not committing to the movement
Forgetting to keep your core tight
Progression Path for Snowboard Tricks
Here's your roadmap from basic to intermediate:
Master flat ground tricks first
Move to small rollers
Graduate to tiny jumps
Then hit the actual park features
Safety First: The Real Talk About Learning Snowboard Tricks
Listen up - this is important:
Always check your landing zone
Start small (smaller than you think)
Know the park rules
Don't let your friends pressure you into stuff you're not ready for
Where to Practice Your Easy Snowboard Tricks
Best spots for beginners:
Flat sections at the bottom of runs
Beginner terrain parks
Small natural features
Areas with good visibility and fewer people
Taking Your Easy Snowboard Tricks to the Next Level
Once you've got these basics down, you can start combining them:
180 off a small jump
Press into a 180
Ollie to press
Switch riding (riding with your opposite foot forward)
Quick Tips for Faster Progress with Snowboard Tricks
Film yourself (yes, you'll cringe, but you'll learn faster)
Practice on a trampoline in the off-season
Get a buddy to spot you
Take breaks when you're tired (that's when injuries happen)
Remember, everyone who's throwing down sick tricks in the park started with these same easy snowboard tricks. The key is consistency and patience. Start small, progress slowly, and most importantly, have fun with it.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your trick arsenal, these easy snowboard tricks will give you a solid foundation to build on. Now get out there and start practicing - the snow's not getting any fresher.