What Is Easier; Skiing or Snowboarding?

So, you want to get into snow sports but your mind is caught up in the most common debate of ‘should I ski or snowboard?’ 

Everyone has a different take on this debate, given that you can find as many skiing lovers as snowboarding. But it seems that nobody is likely to stand down from what they believe is the best. And that is fair enough as both sports can be equally exciting and adventurous.

So that naturally comes down to you to decide which is better and easier. But you don’t have to do it on your own.
Read this post to help yourself reach an informed decision!

Skiing Vs. Snowboarding

One of the most common opinions that we get to hear a lot is that skiing is easier to learn but difficult to master, while snowboarding is more difficult to learn but easier to master. The truth is that opinion is actually relevant.

Generally, a beginner skier finds the sport mostly instinctive. This is because the technique can be broken down into a modular method but mastering it can be very technical. Snowboarding, on the other hand, is challenging to get on the edges but once you have nailed it, you can master it pretty easily.

Three other factors that can help you decide are:

Equipment: The sports equipment can also be a deciding factor for beginners. For instance, snowboard boots are much easier to walk around in than ski boots (however once your on the mountain you won’t walk much - you’ll be skiing or snowboarding). Moreover, carrying just your snowboard, rather than two skis and two poles makes it a bit easier to get around.

Body position: Skiing is done with a straightforward, straight-on stance; the beginner skier has total peripheral vision and can see exactly where he or she is going, and everything that is in front, including other people and objects. On the other hand, snowboarding stances are side-on and so the beginner has less peripheral vision, seeing only around 50% of what is in front while travelling down the slopes. This can also take a little bit of getting used to.

Fitness: Skiing demands more involvement of legs and thighs, while snowboarding needs more core strength. This is because in skiing you use the strength of your legs, whereas, in snowboarding the upper body movements help you turn and balance.

Regardless of your choice, there is so much to experience and enjoy, be it on one or two planks. If you still cannot make up your mind, visit the most friendly Lake Tahoe ski rentals for advice and to rent the equipment and give both sports an equal shot.