How to Ride a Bi-Deck Snowskate

Bi-deck snowskates offer a unique mix of snowboard control and skate-like freedom. They are easy to learn, highly maneuverable and allow riders to progress quickly without needing steep terrain or large features. This guide explains the fundamentals of riding a bi-deck snowskate and provides practical tips for improving your balance, carving and overall control on groomed slopes and park features.

Why Bi-Deck Snowskates Are Easy to Learn

Snowskating has a low barrier to entry. Riders do not need special boots or bindings, and balance skills from skiing, snowboarding, surfing or skateboarding transfer naturally. Because snowskates are lighter and encourage moderate speeds, progression comes quickly and with less physical impact than traditional snowboard riding.

Small hills, beginner areas and simple resort terrain become fun and challenging again!

Getting Started: Stance and Position

Natural Stance

Most riders choose the same stance they use on a snowboard or skateboard. Your front foot should face slightly forward, with your back foot angled outward for balance.

Weight Distribution

Bi-deck snowskates respond well to centered weight. Keep your hips above the board, knees slightly bent and your upper body relaxed. Avoid leaning too far back, especially when learning.

Foot Placement

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart on the griptape, similar to a skateboard. Minor adjustments in foot placement dramatically change how the board feels, so experiment to find what works best.

Turning and Basic Control

Initiating Turns

Turns begin by shifting weight and applying gentle pressure to the edges of the subdeck. Look where you want to go and allow your upper body to guide the board, just as you would on a snowboard. At low speeds for quick turns, imagine a sailboat where your front foot is the mast and your back foot is the rudder.

Carving

Carving on a bi-deck feels similar to snowboarding but requires less force. Focus on smooth transitions from edge to edge. The shaped subdeck and steel edges will hold the turn as long as your weight stays balanced and controlled.

Speed Management

Speed is controlled through turns. Large, sweeping turns slow you down; shorter, more dynamic turns help maintain momentum. Bi-decks naturally encourage moderate speeds, which makes learning safe and forgiving.

Stability and Balance

The lighter, binding-free setup can feel different at first, but riders typically adapt quickly. To improve balance:

• Keep your shoulders aligned with your hips
• Stay centered over the board
• Bend your knees to absorb vibrations
• Keep movements smooth rather than abrupt

Practicing on green and blue slopes helps build confidence before progressing to more varied terrain.

Riding Park Features

One of the biggest advantages of snowskating is how accessible park riding becomes. Smaller jumps, rails and side hits feel challenging and rewarding again because the board reacts quickly and requires clean technique.

Small Jumps

Start with low-speed approaches. Keep your body centered and absorb landings with your knees. Snowskates encourage stylish, low-impact tricks rather than big air.

Rails and Boxes

Approach features straight and balanced. The absence of bindings gives you the freedom to adjust instantly if you lose stability.

Side Hits and Natural Features

Side hits, rollers and bumps become ideal places to practice pop, grabs and creative lines without the commitment required on a snowboard.

Riding Lifts Safely

Most ski resorts allow bi-deck snowskates with a leash. To ride lifts:

• Hold the board in one hand while loading
• Rest the subdeck on the footrest or your boot
• Keep the leash attached at all times
• Lower the board smoothly when unloading

Lift staff generally appreciate the low weight and easy handling of bi-decks.

Progression Tips

Start Small

Use beginner slopes and small park features. With snowskating, even small terrain feels engaging.

Stay Relaxed

Tension makes balance more difficult. Keep your body loose and let the board move beneath you.

Use Your Eyes

Look where you want to go. The board will follow your line of sight.

Practice Edge Control

Controlled edging leads to confident turns and better handling at higher speeds.

Switch Riding

Snowskates make it easy to experiment with switch riding, which improves overall control.

Choosing the Right Hovland Board for Learning

Five-Oh

Playful and agile for technical tricks and skate-style riding.

Ram

The best allround board for learning groomers, carving and park features.

Buckshot

Stable and powerful for riders who want high-confidence carving and mor control in highs speeds.

Bubba

Floaty and great for soft snow, deep powder and mellow turns.

Each board offers a different learning experience, but all provide the control needed to ride safely in resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it hard to learn a bi-deck snowskate?

Most riders find it intuitive, especially if they ski or snowboard.

Do I need snowboard boots?

No. Regular winter boots work well.

Can kids learn on a snowskate?

Yes. The lightweight, low-speed nature of snowskates makes them ideal for younger riders.

How fast can you go on a snowskate?

Snowskaters typically ride at moderate speeds. The focus is on flow, balance and creativity rather than pure velocity.

Are snowskates safe?

Yes. The lower speeds, smaller jumps and reduced impact make snowskating a low-risk alternative to high-speed snowboard riding.