Table of Contents
Snowboard slopestyle competitions are exciting events that showcase a rider’s creativity and skill. For beginners, mastering the right tricks is essential to perform well and enjoy the sport. Here are the top 10 tricks every beginner should learn to succeed in slopestyle contests.
1. Ollie
The ollie is the foundation of many tricks. It involves popping the tail of the snowboard off the ground and leveling the board in mid-air. Practice this trick on flat ground before trying it on features.
2. Nollie
The nollie is similar to the ollie but pops from the nose of the board. It helps develop control and prepares you for more advanced tricks.
3. 180 Spin
A 180 spin involves rotating the board and your body 180 degrees in the air. It can be performed frontside or backside, adding style to your runs.
4. Boardslide
The boardslide is a basic rail trick where you slide perpendicular to the rail or box. Start on low features and focus on balance and control.
5. Kickflip
The kickflip involves flipping the board 360 degrees along the axis while in the air. It requires good ollie technique and timing.
6. Shifty
A shifty is a subtle twist of the board while riding straight or in a spin. It adds style and flair to your tricks without requiring a full rotation.
7. 50-50 Grind
The 50-50 grind is a basic grind where both trucks slide along the rail or box. It’s a good starting point for learning grind tricks.
8. Fakie Tricks
Practicing tricks fakie (riding backward) helps improve balance and control. Many tricks, like ollies and spins, can be performed fakie for variety.
9. Switch Riding
Switch riding means riding opposite your natural stance. It’s essential for versatility and performing tricks in different directions.
10. Practice and Safety
Consistent practice is key to mastering tricks. Always wear proper safety gear, start on easy features, and progress gradually to avoid injuries.