Smart Style in the terrain park

Progressing your freestyle skills is totally awesome. To help maximize your time in the terrain park and reduce the risk of injury, this episode will go over the park rules that everyone should know. Based on common sense, these terrain park rules are called Smart Style.

Rule 1: Make a plan
Before riding the park, come up with a plan for each feature you want to use. Your speed, approach and take off will directly affect your maneuver and landing.

Rule 2: Look before you leap
Before hitting a feature, check it out to make sure that everything is in good condition. Size it up to gauge distances, speed and snow conditions.

Only stop where you can be seen by others. You should never stop on a take off or landing. If you fall, get out of the way as fast as you can. If there’s a bad crash, make an X sign with your arms to notify riders at the top to steer clear. A circle means it’s safe to go.

Rule number 3: Easy Style it
You’ve got to start small and work your way up. While the pros make that huge jump seem totally do-able, stick to small features and slowly develop your skills to prevent unnecessary injuries.

Rule number 4: Respect Gets Respect.
Call your drop and let riders who’ve been waiting go ahead of you. Not only is it annoying, but snaking can even lead to collisions. Use each feature for its intended purpose—if you can’t hit the 20 foot flat-down, street-style rail, go to the small park and work your way up.

Don’t be a dink. Courtesy starts in the lift line. Wait your turn and alternate. Don’t bash your board into the person in front of you and watch the potty mouth.

With a little practice, common sense and courtesy, you’ll be a natural in the park. Explore our videos on snowboard tricks to begin progressing your freestyle skills.