I've been snowboarding for 12 years now and in that time, I'm sad to say, I never learned how to set or adjust my own bindings or stance angle. I always left this up to my partner or the guys in the shop, and I just took their word for it. Last year, days before heading to Chamonix, my husband decided it was high time for me to take care of my own gear, so he handed me the screw driver and told me to figure it out for myself.
Through a lot of frustration and research I discovered that there is no one answer for what your stance should be. Stance is all based on what feels best for the rider and takes into consideration how aggressive a rider you are, whether you are goofy or regular, if you ride switch, and so much more. The best way to find a stance that feels right to you is to get on the bunny slope and try out a few variations.
Before you do that though, you'll need to know how to adjust your bindings. To do this on the slope you're going to need a Snowboard Tool. A Snowboard Tool is basically a compact screwdriver which has a ratchet mechanism that easily allows you to switch directions, i.e., screw in or unscrew. These tools can vary from simple to complex but all usually contain clever hiding places for additional bits. Whether you are a gear-head or not, this tool is a must have for all riders.
Next, looking at your bindings, you'll see there are markings of degrees on the base plate. Also, there are screws on the base plate, usually three or four, which keeps the binding on the board. Using your tool, you should be able to partially unscrew these screws just enough so that you can maneuver the angle of the binding without actually having to take all the screws out. This technique helps avoid you dropping a screw in the snow while adjusting your stance angle on the hill.
With all the screws loose but still attached to the board, you should now be able to adjust your stance by gently twisting the binding right or left. Now for the frustrating part: which degree do you set each foot? This is where it comes down to preference. Some riders like a duck stance, meaning the toes on each foot are pointing outward. Some people like their back foot perpendicular and only a forward angle on the front foot. Then again, some people like both feet forward. If you're a beginner, start with a basic stance of your front foot angled forward and your back either straight, or slightly forward.
Once you have your preferred angles set, use your tool and screw in all the screws. You can now strap into your bindings and see how things feel, being careful not to damage your board or edges depending on what type of flooring you are on. If you are happy with the settings, then you are now ready for the hill.
When you get on the hill, take a run with your new stance. If you feel like you are having difficulty turning, if the board feels squirrelly under you, or if things just don't feel right in general, then find a safe spot on the side of the slope, or make your way to the bottom and find a space where you can get down and adjust your bindings. It's all about figuring out what feels right for you, so get out your handy tool and get yourself sorted. It will likely take a few adjustments, but you'll get there in the end and you'll have done it all on your own. Go you!
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