What is adaptive snowboarding?

Adaptive snowboarding encompasses the sport of snowboarding as it pertains to riders with disabilities, and the specialized mobility and/or snowboarding equipment and services they use. This can include anything from a Burton Step On® snowboard binding, to a customized snowboard or jacket, to an on-mountain guide, or even a foot with shock absorbers and articulating joints that can be attached to a prosthesis that makes it possible to stand sideways.

Many riders don’t require special equipment, but those who do often modify their own gear to make it work for their unique needs. This can be accomplished through computer modeling and 3D printing or using simple tools at home. Also, rapid prototyping and 3D body scanning are allowing innovators to produce novel adaptive snowboarding equipment very quickly, allowing more athletes than ever to snowboard. In this article, Burton hardgoods experts provide an overview of adaptive snowboarding, discuss some of the challenges riders may face, and offer resources for aspiring riders who want to get out and give snowboarding a try.

Everyone is Different and so is Adaptive Snowboarding Equipment

Adaptive snowboarding is as unique as any athlete in any sport. And because no two individuals’ needs are the same, the specialized equipment that adaptive riders use to shred is very diverse as well. While some of these items are purpose-built for athletes with varying abilities, many other items are mainstream snowboarding equipment that simply makes snowboarding more accessible (by offering one-handed operation, for example).

Examples of Adaptive Snowboarding Equipment

• Custom heel wedges
• Harness & tether systems
• Purpose-built accessories for prosthetics with shock-absorbing joints
• Burton Step On snowboard bindings
• BOA® snowboard boots

Sometimes, being able to operate equipment one-handed is the only adaptation a rider needs to snowboard independently. In other cases, individuals may need more specialized equipment to establish a secure connection to their snowboard.

Additionally, adaptive riders may need specialized snowboarding apparel that works for their unique body shape or with their unique adaptive equipment. This could include specially tailored snowboarding pants or modified safety equipment, like a custom snowboard helmet or goggles.

Finally, some riders may be able to use conventional equipment but need the assistance of a guide or instructor to help them safely navigate the mountain environment. Adaptive ski and snowboard guides and instructors can fulfill a variety of roles like providing verbal guidance, holding a tether, or assisting athletes in the operation of more complex adaptive equipment.

Pro tip: A wide variety of adaptive snowboarding equipment exists for many different unique use-cases. For instance, BioDapt’s Moto Knee and Versa Foot prosthetics may be good solutions for individuals with lower leg or foot amputations.

Finding an Adaptive Snowboarding Program & Lessons

There are many resources for athletes who want to pursue snowboarding but may need specialized equipment and assistance getting started. The good news is that many ski areas now offer adaptive programs and services. But that doesn’t mean you should just show up and expect to find exactly what you need at any mountain.

If you are an aspiring rider with a disability planning a snowboarding trip, you’ll want to begin by consulting the Move United database to find an adaptive ski or snowboard organization near where you plan to visit. Contact them to confirm their ability to meet your individual needs by discussing your situation. This will help them pair you with the instructor who can provide the best experience. And finally, make sure to discuss any adaptive snowboarding equipment that you already have access to and confirm what else you should bring.

Volunteering at an Adaptive Snowboarding Program

If you’ve experienced the joys of snowboarding, and you want to help aspiring adaptive riders have that same opportunity, we’d suggest finding a local adaptive snowboarding program to volunteer at. You can find information about volunteering through the Move United volunteer resource page. With hundreds of chapters across the United States, most people can find an adaptive learning center close to home.

If you can’t volunteer because of limited time or access to an adaptive snowboarding program, making a donation to Move United is an easy way to show your support. Donations help secure adaptive sports instructors, adaptive equipment, transportation, family support, and much more. For more information about making a tax-deductible donation, visit Move United’s donation page.

Adaptive Snowboarding: Giving Individuals a Sense of Freedom

A common feeling that is echoed among adaptive snowboarding athletes is the sense of freedom that standing sideways provides. But don’t just take it from us. Watch Burton adaptive athletes Jacopo Luchini, Renske Van Beek, Lisa Bunschoten, Chris Vos, and Holly Palmer, and learn what adaptive snowboarding means to them.

Pro tip: Visit Move United for more information and additional resources on planning an adaptive ski or snowboarding trip in the United States.