Many tourists look around ski and snowboard rentals shops wondering what type of equipment to rent. They ask: “should I ski or snowboard?” As a beginner, you want to start with an easy sport, so we will discuss the differences between skiing vs. snowboarding in this article. Both winter sports are fun and exciting, but they require a certain level of fitness.
So, what is easier: skiing or snowboarding? Let us look at both mountain sports and explain to you everything you need to know. We want you to make the most of your winter holiday, and these two are the most popular activities you can try in the Colorado Mountains.
Do I Need to Be More Fit to Ski or Snowboard?
In terms of fitness, you need to be in good physical shape for either snowboarding or skiing. Whether you are trying freestyle or simple downhill, you must have strong legs and thighs for skiing. If you are already cycling, you are in good physical shape for this winter sport. You can come during the summer to practice on mountain bikes for men or women, and then skiing vs. snowboarding will be an easier choice for you.
For snowboarding, you should focus on core strength, because you will use your upper body a lot for turning and balance. Crunches and pilates are great for building core strength. If you want to prepare by practicing a sport, paddleboarding is an excellent choice. You will develop the quick reflexes needed for either snowboarding or skiing.
What You Need to Know about Skiing vs. Snowboarding for Beginners
Experts say that skiing is easier to learn as a beginner, but difficult to master; whereas snowboarding is difficult to learn, but easier to master. This is due to the fact that the main difference between skiing vs. snowboarding is found in technique.
For any beginner, men or women, the basic snowboarding technique, once acquired, remains the same as they tackle more difficult slopes and snowboarding styles (including freestyle). As for skiing, the basic technique is easy to master. However, you have to learn new things if you want to progress from nursery slopes to more difficult ones.
Here are some key differences between skiing vs. snowboarding for beginners:
Body Position
The body position for skiing is easier to master for beginners, with one leg on a separate ski. When you try snowboarding, both legs are attached to the board and your body is facing the slope sideways.
Injuries
“Should I ski or snowboard if I want to avoid injuries?” Unfortunately, learning a new sport involves several rounds of injuries. However, while snowboarding causes more injuries among beginners (especially to the wrists and ankles), in the long run, skiers experience more injuries, even after they master the technique. Also, there is a significant difference between skiing vs. snowboarding in terms of wear and tear. Skier’s knees suffer more in time, leading to injuries caused by overuse.
Using Lifts
Whether you want to practice snowboarding or skiing, you will start by using a lift. For skiers, this is much simpler, as you are facing forward and have the use of your poles. For snowboarding, things are more complex: you will have one foot unclipped while you ride the lift and you do not benefit from the use of poles.
More Differences between Skiing and Snowboarding
Another significant difference between skiing vs. snowboarding is equipment sizing and getting used to. Skis need to be properly sized for your height and weight. Also, skiing boots are quite heavy and difficult to walk in.
By comparison, it is easier to find the ideal board for snowboarding and the boots are lighter. And, once your day on the slope is over, you only have to carry the board under your arm, not two large skis plus two poles.
Which Is More Popular – Skiing or Snowboarding?
The preference for snowboarding or skiing varies in various places across the world. Both are now established Olympic sports, and this has increased their overall popularity among people of all ages.
However, snowboarding tends to be more popular in North America, while skiing is the number one winter sport in Europe. Irrespective of these aspects, if you want to learn snowboarding or skiing, the Colorado Mountains represent the perfect place to get started.
Should I Ski or Snowboard? Whatever Your Choice, We Have the Right Gear!
Carvers Ski+Bike is a family owned and operated business in Summit County. We know a lot about winter sports, so you are in expert hands when you come to our shop to rent equipment for snowboarding or skiing. We will help you with sizing and offer helpful tips for beginners.
We want you to enjoy the Colorado Mountains as much as we do, so we only offer high-quality skiing and snowboarding gear for rent from top brands like Rossignol, Burton and Salomon.
Come to our shop in Breckenridge, CO or contact us to learn more about our services: 970-453-0132!