Ski vs. Snowboard: How to Choose
The temps are dropping and you might be mourning the temporary loss of your favorite outdoor activities. But not all hope for the season is lost. Despite the change and inability to recreate in your favorite ways, you can always change gears into snow sports! Now, there's snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but today we're talking about your classic alpine skiing and snowboarding. The two most commonly participated in winter sports for those whether you're minutes or miles away from resorts differ far more than just the equipment used. Today, we're going to talk about how you can pick the right one for you!Ski
While it may feel intimidating to see folks hauling down a mountainside with two french-fry-like items affixed to their feet, don't worry, it gets better with time...kinda. Skiing is generally considered the easiest of the two to learn, but harder to master as you advance. If you find more joy in the quick, initial success, this might be great for you! The perks of skiing are also in the equipment. Because you have two separate skis, it can be easier to rebalance yourself at slower speeds by lifting one foot/ski and readjusting. Skiing will be slightly harder on the knees and the risk of knee injury does go up, but it's still easier on the joints than running. To ski, you'll be relying heavily on your lower legs and thighs.Snowboarding
This one might seem even more impossible. No leg freedom and those folks are really trucking it? It might seem like an easy choice between the two, but just hear us out! Snowboarding is undoubtedly more of a challenge to start. Getting used to having both feet unable to move how they typically do can be a tough transition, and if you get off balance here, chances are you'll fall. If you're used to skateboarding or surfing, however, snowboarding could be your ticket to a winter of fun! (The comfort of the boots compared to ski boots might also sell you on this option.) Snowboarding will require more core activation, too, but this will help you stay upright on the board and give you more control when hitting any features. But don't let this discourage you! While snowboarding might feel difficult to pick up, it gets easier as you go thus making it the easier snow sport to master.We hope this quick side-by-side helps you choose your sport for the winter, and if none of it sounds good, there's still plenty to get out and do! You can read up on Cross Country Skiing here, renting snowshoes at most outdoor stores near you, and sledding is a tried and true activity that arguably gets more fun as you get older. And if all else fails, staying inside with a warm cup of something and waiting for the temperatures to rise once more is also a valid option. whatever you choose, have fun, be safe, embrace the cold, and we'll catch you outside.