Ski or Snowboard?

By Quinn Wright, 6th Grade

Skiing and snowboarding are very common winter sports, but which is better? Skiing and snowboarding have their pros and cons. For example, ski boots are tough, and hard to walk around in. But, snowboarding boots are much softer, and some say more comfortable. Something can also be said for the difficulty to learn and master both skills. It is true that learning to ski initially is much easier than snowboarding, but mastering snowboarding is less complicated than skiing. So which is better? That's typically for the skier/snowboarder to decide, but let's go over the pros and cons of both.

One big difference between the two is getting on and off the lift. Since snowboarders don't use poles, getting around on the flat area near a chairlift can be tough. Chair lifts weren't originally designed to accompany snowboarders, but by using a technique called "skating", it can be easier to get around. On the other hand, chair lifts are much easier to get on and off of for skiers. Being able to face forward and use their poles (if they have them), they can plow around on the flat area and glide up to the chairlift.

Another difference that sets the two apart is when you're learning the skill. In skiing, the skis come in pairs, and attach separately to each foot, a lot like walking. Unlike snowboards, which lock your feet on one board, making you face sideways.

Here are some quick pros and cons for both. Pro: ski poles make it easier to move around. Con: controlling 2 skis can be difficult (especially on your knees.) Pro: It's easier to move through powder and wet, slushy snow on a snowboard. Con: It's easier to fall when snowboarding.

So, it seems skiing and snowboarding are pretty equally matched. But which do you prefer? And if you want to learn, which do you want to do? Both are really fun sports, and normally, once you start, it's too fun to stop. So why don't you try it out, and maybe join the school's ski and snowboard club while you're at it.