Last Updated1 June 2022

The Snowboard Turn explores how snowboarders can alter their path down the mountain by making turns of different shapes, sizes and performance. Alongside this, we will look at the different turn phases which are particularly useful when communicating the sequence of events to students. We will also explain the variety of turn types that can be used and consider the forces that impact the turn.

Turn Size, Shape & Performance

There are several factors that can be used to define a snowboard turn. This includes the size of the turn, the shape of the turn and performance of the board. The rider, terrain and snow conditions will all determine what type of turns are appropriate.

Turn Size

When defining the size of a turn we consider the length and radius of the arc: small, medium or large.

A large turn is where a rider applies movements slowly and the board spends a longer amount of time in the fall line.

A small turn is when a rider applies movements quickly and the board is in the fall line for a shorter amount of time.

Turn Shape

A rider’s rate of descent down the mountain is controlled mainly by the shape of their turns relative to the fall line. The shape of these turns can be described as open (unfinished) and closed (finished).

A closed turn is where the rider completes the turn across the hill, steering the snowboard perpendicular to the fall line. This type of turn will allow the rider to control both their forward momentum and rate of descent. Closed turns are ideal on steeper pitches, or firmer snow conditions, and to reduce speed.

An open turn is where the rider chooses to steer the snowboard a smaller amount and the shape of the turn stays more down the fall line. Open turns are used on flatter pitches, or in slower conditions, to maintain or increase speed. Open turns are a handy technique that snowboarders use on cat tracks, in powder and when hitting jumps.

Edging Performance

The amount of edge (or snowboard tilt) being used within a turn, in combination with the amount of pivot or steering indicates the edging performance. All turns require a degree of edging otherwise the snowboard will remain flat; however, the amount of edge a rider uses depends on the speed they are travelling and the terrain/snow they are riding on.

Skidded turns refer to a particularly low edge angle and smooth steering movements. Beginner snowboarders should be encouraged to create skidded turns to help them develop edge awareness and balance. Skidded turns will also be used by intermediate and advanced riders in situations where they need to keep their speed down or maintain balance.

Edged turns refer to a medium degree of edge angle, yet still creating some pivot in the snowboard. The resulting track left in the snow is typically narrower than a skidded turn but not pencil thin. Edged turns are often used as a stepping stone to full carving but can also be utilised to create more edge grip in forgiving snow conditions off-trail (see Understanding Steering Angle for more information on the combination of edging and steering).

Carved turns refer to a higher degree of edge angle or tilt of the board, along with zero pivot or skid. The resulting track is pencil line thin throughout the turns and therefore less friction from the board on the snow. This allows the rider to maintain their forward momentum, with the rider’s sidecut having a large influence on the size of the turn. Note that rotational movements are still utilised within carved turns but not necessarily to create pivot in the snowboard.

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