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Is there any reason to the difficulties that snowboarders and skiers have on the slopes of many ski resorts? In some resorts snowboarding is not allowed. Lets look at some of the similarities and differences of these two extreme sports.
Th obvious difference between snowboarding and skiing is that one skier uses two skis and one snowboarder rides on one board. The fundamental difference between these two sports is that the lines that they follow down the mountain are a bit different. This is in fact often the controversy that arises. Because of the differences in carving lines the two enthusiasts get into each others way at times. Often this is the only difference. There may be a difference in median age of snowboarders and skiers, mainly because snowboarding is a much newer sport and is still more popular among younger generations.
There may be a difference in the attitude or style of some snowboarders and skiers but it is hard to make a stark difference between the two. Some say snowboarders are more about speed than form, while cutting well formed turns is important to the skier. One can’t say this about everyone. If you watch any downhill skiing competitions you will understand.
Determining a solution for some resorts has been to create some special parks for snowboarders in particular. These “parks” are particular runs that will have jumps and a variety of obstacles for the riders to maneuver. While skiers have their mogul or bump runs, snowboarders have their half pipes. Compromises have to be the solution. If you are looking for empty slopes without anyone to get in the way, you may want to choose the back country or try taking a day off work and going to the resort mid-week. Skiers and snowboarders alike are more than likely here to stay.
