In snowboarding, the first question you may be asked is, "Are you regular, or goofy?" It's not a personality test--a regular snowboarder rides with the left foot in front, while a goofy (also known as "switch") stance describes riding with the right foot in front. When you stand in the snowboard bindings with your left foot in front (regular), your toes will point toward the right edge of the board. For a goofy stance, you'll need to reverse the direction of the bindings and adjust their angles so the right foot toes point to the left and your foot sits comfortably in the front binding.
Begin testing a newly adjusted board on easy slopes and carry a screwdriver with you in order to make minor adjustments based on your comfort level.
Consult your physician before beginning any rigorous sport, including snowboarding.
Screwdriver and screws
Workbench (optional)
Step 1
Set the snowboard on the floor or a workbench so the nose is in front. Remove both bindings from the snowboard with a screwdriver. Note how far apart the bindings are set as you remove them, and save the screws.
Step 2
Turn the bindings so the binding toes face toward the left edge of the board. Re-attach the bindings with the screwdriver.
Step 3
Check the placement of the bindings by standing on the board. Your feet should be slightly wider than your shoulders, and your knees should have a slight bend. If the bindings are too far apart, move them closer together by one hole each. If they are too closer, move them farther apart by one hole each.
Step 4
Adjust the angle of the bindings by using the binding adapter plate (also called a mounting disk), which is a circular disk that fits inside the base of the binding. The disk will have an indicator arrow, and the binding has dashes that mark the angle at which your foot will sit in the binding. In a goofy stance, both bindings should be set to the same angle, usually between 10 and 20 degrees. Once the angle is set, secure the disk in place with the screws and screwdriver. You may need to adjust the angle slightly after you test your board on the snow.
Step 5
Adjust the forward lean with the tab on the heel (highback) of the binding. Your lean depends on personal preference. A high setting produces a dramatic forward lean, which can create a better stance for turning but may cause you to feel out of balance. A low setting can result in less control during maneuvers on the slopes.
Step 6
Adjust the binding straps. Strap-in bindings are secured over and around your snowboarding boots with a ratcheting strap. Tighten the bindings until they're very snug but not to the point you feel pain. You may benefit from a slightly looser, but still snug, setting on powdery, soft snow.
Tips
Warnings
Things You'll Need
References
- Tactics: How To Set Up A Snowboard
- IY Snowboarding: Understanding the Snowboard Stance: Get Well Grounded!
- Snowboarding Skills: The Back-To-Basics Essentials for All Levels; Cindy Kleh
Tips
- Begin testing a newly adjusted board on easy slopes and carry a screwdriver with you in order to make minor adjustments based on your comfort level.
Warnings
- Consult your physician before beginning any rigorous sport, including snowboarding.
Writer Bio
Lindsey Robinson Sanchez, from Bessemer, Ala., has written for the "Troy Messenger," "The Alabama Baptist" and "The Gainesville Times," where her work was featured on the AP wire. She has a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Florida. She writes style, beauty, fitness, travel and culture.