Are Snowblades Banned?

Skiboards, also known as snowblades are a new popular alternative to long skis. Snowblades are not as wide-spread as long skis yet, which can cause concerns among skiers. Many winter sport enthusiasts worry if they will be allowed to ski in their favourite resort with short skis. 

Looking for a first-hand experience? Check reviews of snowblades directly from the Mammoth Mountain.  

Are Skiboards Allowed on the Slopes?

Yes, in general, skiboards are allowed on most ski slopes. 

However, we cannot speak in behalf of all ski resort out there. There are ski resorts that have in past excluded some individual skier wearing short skis or skiskates. Some ski resorts have specific rules and regulations regarding the use of skiboards, such as safety features on the skis or compulsory helmets. You might also experience some other precautions such as staying within designated areas of the slopes. However, these rules appear only rarely. 

But what is the real situation like out there? 

1. You will not be banned for no reason

There is only a minority of resorts and slopes which will ban you from skiing simply based on your short skis. You usually have to give them some other reason than that, such as breaking some general rules of behaviour on the slope. Once you behave and don't disrupt other people's skiing, the stakes of being excluded from slopes are almost zero to none. 

2. All snowblades have safety features

All snowblades have safety features to prevent a ski on the loose from harming anyone on the slope. 

Snowblades with non-release ski bindings are equipped with straps that attach around you ankles to prevent your skis from sliding away in case your bindings should release. 
 

 
Snowblades with snowboard boot bindings are equipped with special snowboard bindings which can be released only manually. These bindings are essentially the same as snowboard bindings. 

Snowblades with ski release bindings feature safety brakes that stop the ski when it's released. These are the standard bindings you can see at any regular long skis. 

 3. You usually wear helmet based on your own decision. 

Wearing such a basic safety gear is usually your own choice, because, let's face it, it is a reasonable decision. 

Are snowblades banned?

No, they are not. Snowblades, which are also a type of short ski, are generally allowed on ski slopes as well. Again, some ski resorts may have some extra rules for skiboards, such as wearing a helmet. However, most ski resorts considers snowblades regular skis and you won't need to take any extra steps to enjoy the ride.

Are Snowblades dangerous? 

Long story short: Snowblades are not dangerous. 

Snowblades are sometimes considered by some unexperienced internet "experts" and traditional ski business owner dangerous. However, they could not be further from the truth.

Let's debunk the myths that might discourage you from giving skiboards a shot. 

• Skiboards are less stable than the long skis. Yes, shorter skis can feel different in terms of stability than the long skis. You need to keep the front-back balance which makes the skiing with skiboards more similar to skating or rollerblading. However, the stability, especially with longer skiboards (for example 120 cm long) is almost the same as with the long skis. 
• Less control in high speed. Skiboards and short skis are sometimes considered less stable in high speed. The realistic view is that you will probably never go as fast on a slope to be actually able to tell. Skiing on a slope will feel in terms of stability similar to long skis. 
• Skiboards require an experienced skier. Under the impression of snowblades being often used by free style riders, many winter sport fans believe that they are suitable only for experts. The truth is that short skis are suitable for beginners, too. They will grant a beginner feeling of control over turning and moves plus short skis will help to make fast progress. 
• Snowblades are not suitable for deep snow and uneven terrain. This is only a partially truth: standard snowblades are not wide and long enough to give you the right flow in powder. The good news is that powder-friendly skiboards are already available and they word like a charm. Uneven terrain, especially the late afternoon moguls are actually a piece of cake for anyone with skiboards. Shorter skis allow easier movement among moguls than long skis. 
• Skiboards are too maneuverable. Some skiers consider too light of a movement a con of skiboards. However, is a responsive and light skis really a bad thing? 

Yes, Snowfeet are allowed at most of the ski resorts, as well as skiboards and skiskates. 

Snowfeet, also known as snow skates, are a newer addition to the winter sports scene. They are small and lightweight devices that attach to the user's boots, allowing them to slide down the slopes like skis or snowboards. Although we recommend to check if the ski resort is allowing Snowfeet, you are not very likely to experience any troubles when it comes to riding Snowfeet at any ski resort.  

Most of the ski resort follow 1 simple rule: your skis need to have metal edges. When it comes to Snowfeet, all of our short skis have metal edges. 

Our skis also use all required safety precautions, which means that there is no reason why you should not be able to use them. More specifically, Snowfeet have safety bindings which allow you to properly attach Snowfeet to your boots, to ensure perfect control over the ride. Snowfeet's metal edges allow smooth and safe turning and braking, plus, you can always use the heel brake to control your speed. 

When it comes to safety features, Snowfeet* are equipped with all the features that are necessary to ensure maximum safety. 

However, many skiers are still not sure if short skis are as safe as long skis. Short skis are not as widely spread as long skis, therefore many myths and unclear ideas still sometimes appear. Let's have a closer look at the topic below: 

Short answer: No, it is not! Riding short skis is as safe as riding long skis or snowboard. 

Skiing and snowboarding are definitely more dangerous than sitting on a couch but you will not make any memories in your living room, right?

Winter sports industry is constantly developing and bringing new ideas and features to ensure the most enjoyable and the safety experience possible. Today's skiboards and short skis in general continue in long tradition of winter sports equipment and they implement the best safety features that appeared in the past. 

Skiboards implement many of these features that, combined with short length of the skis, make skiboards even safer than the long skis. 

Short skis are often labelled as dangerous by many rigid, old-school skiers and resorts. But the truth is that short skis are in many ways safer than long skis. 

Why are short skis actually safer than long skis? 

• Short skis are easier to control. Even when you are not as strong, you will find it easy to manage your ride and stop when necessary. 
• Skiboards and snowblades are not as clunky and cumbersome as long skis. It is therefore less likely that your legs will get tangled and you will end up falling down. 
• Short skis are more manageable in an uneven and ungroomed terrain. You will easily ride around moguls and among trees. 
• Skiboards are less strenuous to maneuver and therefore you don't need as much strength to control them and you will not get tired and less attentive as soon as with long skis. 

Short skis are often the first choice for both beginners and free style riders who need safe and responsive skis. Beginners benefit from the fast learning curve and almost effortless control, and free style riders opt for them for the freedom of movement and responsiveness. We believe that short skis are the safest option not only for them but also for anybody who looks for light skis that are easy to control. 

Skiers and snowboarders attending the opening of Mammoth Mountain have tried skiboards and skiskates for the first time. Let's see how it went: 



In conclusion, there is no reason why short skis and skiboards should be banned:

• short skis are as safe as long skis, if not even safer 
• short skis contain all necessary safety features
• skiboards are easier to control than long skis and therefore more likely to provide a safe ride

There is no real reason why short skis should be banned anywhere. On the contrary: they should be available at every ski resort because they can bring new skiers to the slopes thanks to their multiple advantages and user-friendly features. They are as safe as long skis, plus they follow all the safety rules. If you want to play it safe, you can always check with your resort before bringing skiboards, snowblades, or snowfeet. However, it is not necessary, since only rare exceptions would not allow short skis. 

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