Short describtion

In general we can say, that Freestyle-Snowboarding gone out from the following different sports:
skateboarding
surfing
windsurfing

To do snowboarding in the Winter is a good training for this sports because there are a lot of things which are similar.
The boards which you need for freestyle-snowboarding is really different like a carving-board, a slalom-board or a race-board. This board is more broadly it is really important that it has enough flex to hold out big jumps, noseturns and other freestyle tricks. In general the freestyle-board is not so long like a race-board so it is easier for you to keep the control about the board when you make spins or twists, rotations or turns.
Another difference is the binding. The freestyle-binding also called soft-binding, is not so hard and strong like a hard-binding. Your feet are fixed with two belts and closed with buckles in the binding.
In the following there are points which are typically for the freestyle-snowboarding, points which caracterise this branch of snowboarding. Freestyle means the style you can do snowboarding free or we could say that there are no limits in the freestyle. We can split up the freestyle-snowboarding in different categories. The following list will show you the different styles which you can drive with a freestyle-board:

Halfpipe:
Similar like the halfpipe in the skateboarding. But the snowboard-halfpipe is longer and has to be built on a hill, that you can drive down through the halfpipe. The are every year big contests in the halfpipe. The aim is, to make a run with big and difficult jumps, turns, rotations and a jury evaluates the run and gives points.

Jump contest:
You have a big dig and a distance to start your jump. The aim of this contest is, to make the best jump, that means you should make difficult elements if possible ( saltos, turns, rotations, screws and you also can combine elements together). Here we also have a jury which gives points for the succeed and the correctness of the jump.

Powder snow-driving:
This is a very free discipline and here we haven’t contests. Powder snow-driving is very popular under the freestyle-boarder. You need a steeply hill with meter high powder snow. When you curve down trough this snow, you feel like in a dream. You slide over this big snow masses and it is like flying. There is nothing which is more beautifully for a freestyle-boarder.

Boarder cross.
A discipline which comes from the motor cross scene. There is a course with different obstacles like digs, closely curves, ramps, embossments runways and other difficult parts. The start is like in a race we know it from other sports. That means five to seven drivers start together at the same time and fight for the first place.

Tricks and twists, turns, and other different tricks; You can make different tricks with a freestyle-board on the flat pist.

Many ski areas have snowboard parks filled with obstacle courses, ramps, and jumps. There you'll find the "jibbers," or snowboarders who ride freestyle, up in the air showing off their gnarly tricks.

Getting the right snowboard is probably the most important component of the sport. Yes, you probably want a board that has bright colours, but you should also want one that is safe and sturdy. The fact is, you can't carve up the mountain without one.
When choosing a new snowboard – even if you are renting one – it is very important that the board's length and weight fit your ability and size. A good beginner's rule for measuring length: stand the board on the ground in front of you. If the tip of the board hits you somewhere between your chin and your eyebrows, then you've got a match.
As your skills improve, you may want a shorter board, especially if you're into doing tricks. And if you're still growing, chances are this season's board will be just the right length for you next year.
Often, boards can be too wide for smaller people. Test the width by standing with your feet on top of the pre-drilled holes on the board (those are where the bindings go). If the stance is too wide, you may need to have new holes drilled. Conversely, while you're standing there, look to see if your toes hang over the edge of the board. If they do, you'll need something wider. (You may want to rent a board the first few times you go snowboarding to get an idea for what size board feels good.)
Discuss the weight of the board with the salesperson at the board shop. If the board is too light, it could lack sufficient shock absorbency. That means that when you hit the snow after a totally rad jump, your body will take more of the impact (ouch!). If the board is too light or too heavy, it won't handle as well. A mid-weight board with a good flex is best.

 Bindings

Once you've found the board you've been wishing for (the one that's both stylish and safe), it's time to strap yourself on board. Good bindings are essential: they are the link between you and your ability to control your board.
It's important to make sure bindings fit your boots. If not, you could be in for a few too many tumbles. Also, bindings that are easy to get in and out of are a real plus. Since you will be sitting in snow strapping in between runs, the less time you spend doing that, the more time you spend snowboarding. Some companies are making step-in soft boot bindings that are worth checking out.

Snowboard-Boots

A good-fitting pair of snowboard boots can mean the difference between a totally awesome day on the hill and a miserable one.
Try the boots on with at least medium weight ski socks. A wool blend is preferable; cotton doesn't dry out as quickly and may give you cold feet. Take note of how your foot feels. Too loose? Too tight? The boot should be snug, yet comfortable, and your feet should never slide around inside the boots. (While your feet are growing it might be a good option to rent rather than buy.)
 
Clothes

Style or no style, you need clothing that will protect you from the elements. Sure, you may look hot in your designer jeans and thin jacket, but snowboarding is no fun when you're wet and cold on the hill.
Parkas, pants and mittens should be made from waterproof fabrics. A long jacket that covers your behind is always better than a short one. Who wants snow up their back or down their pants during a minor fall? If you have long hair, stay away from jackets that have Velcro at the neckline. It hurts when your hair gets stuck in it.
Pants with extra padding in the knees and are nice too. Those are the two body parts that will spend the most time in the snow – while you rest up before your next "right-on" trick.
Look for mittens and gloves that go up under your elbows and pull snugly around your arms with elastic so you won't have to worry about that pesky snow getting in. Also look for mittens with removable liners because they dry out quicker.
 
 

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