If you're learning to snowboard, you're going to fall. Most beginners spend their first day or two catching an edge and landing on their backside or knees. That's normal, and it's how everyone learns. The goal isn't to never fall. It's to fall in a way that hurts less, so you can get up and keep going.
Why beginners fall so much
On a snowboard both feet are locked to one board. When the uphill edge catches the snow, the board stops and your body keeps moving. If you're leaning back, you land on your hips and tailbone. If you're leaning forward, you land on your knees and hands.
Falling backward: sit down and roll
- Get low. Bend your knees and drop your hips toward the snow so the fall is shorter.
- Land on your bottom, not your hands. Keep your arms in and your fists closed. Reaching back with straight arms is a common way to hurt a wrist.
- Roll onto your back. Let your back take some of the impact and tuck your chin so your head doesn't snap back.
Falling forward: knees, then forearms
- Drop onto your knees first, then your forearms, keeping your hands in fists.
- Try to slide with the fall rather than stopping dead.
Gear that helps
- A helmet is the most important piece of protective gear. Wear one every time.
- Wrist guards help with the urge to put a hand out.
- Hip and tailbone padding softens the backward falls beginners take over and over. Our Shield Shell turtle hip protector straps on over or under your snow pants and comes in kids and adult sizes.
- Knee pads cushion forward falls, especially on icy days.
More tips for your first days
- Take a lesson. An instructor will teach you to fall and to stop safely.
- Start on gentle, quiet slopes and take breaks. Many falls happen when you're tired.
- Stay off the edges: keep the board flat and your weight centered while you get the feel for it.
Padding reduces the sting of everyday falls, but it doesn't replace a helmet, lessons or riding within your ability. Have fun, fall smart, and keep getting back up.