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I pulled my board up for as much lift as possible, gliding off a hanging cornice. Time
slowed as I surveyed 1,000 vertical feet of untouched fresh powder sweeping below me
to a distant tree line. It was perfect. I would nail the landing, carve Picasso-like
curves for a half-mile, and dart into the woods, exiting the stage in style.
The tip of my board struck the soft snow and submarined, pitching my body forward,
flinging goggles and gear everywhere, and burying me in the annals of slope-side
follies. Cheers erupted from the lift above, and unknown riders waiting to watch my
feat howled in laughter. Sounds like my worst moment? I thought so, but instead my
shenanigans earned me two beers from those appreciative of the free entertainment. By
the end of the day, I had made some new friends.
The club-like cliquey nature of Snowboarding sets it apart from other winter sports.
Just click your feet in, and you’re part of the team, banded together against skiers
and traditionalists worldwide. On a less nationalistic level, this means we’re cool,
laid back people, and you’re invited to join in.
- Relax, have fun.
Taking yourself too seriously on the slopes is a recipe for disaster that will chase
your friends away faster than a warm rain. It’s easy to get bogged down in the
frustrations of style and technique, but don’t. Whether you’re riding with old
buddies or new acquaintances, a cheerful demeanor will invite camaraderie and add
dimension to your own experience.
- Head to the snow park.
Even if you’re no good and just want to watch the half-pipe trickery, this is an
ideal congregation point for boarders at any winter resort. See some cool feats, and
talk it up with everyone around you. You’ll meet new partners for the day’s remaining
runs, and who knows what else.
- Take advantage of the after-boarding scene.
Whatever resort you’re visiting, the place will be hopping soon after the lifts close.
Snowboarders can be a rowdy bunch. Take advantage of this opportunity to meet new
friends, share the best parts of your day, and get to know the culture of a new town.
- Take a lesson, even if you don’t think you need it.
Besides helping your riding immeasurably, a lesson will place you in a group of other
boarders of the same ability. What better way to get to know new people than to share
four hours of embarrassment, frustration, laughs, and achievement? You might just
find a partner for post-lesson jaunts too.
- Hop in the singles line.
The double entendre of this lift-line name has always brought a smirk to my face, and
for good reason: It’s an easy opportunity to meet people. Whether you’re hoping to
find a new mate, a plain old good conversation, or just want to avoid the long lift
lines, this is the place to do it. Next? Fifteen minutes of sitting shoulder to
shoulder with someone you’ve never met before, with no way out but a 60-foot drop to
the slopes below. I challenge you not to meet them!
- Join a club.
In most cities, you’ll find a variety of ski and snowboard organizations. Maybe a
racing team, an outing club, or a carpool network. No matter the shape and form,
you’ll meet other mountain enthusiasts and make new friends. Ask around at your local
ski or board shop, ski area, or on-line chat rooms.
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