Snowboard and Ski: One Board or Two?

Snowboard and Ski: One Board or Two?

Discover the differences that set these two snow sports apart. We could have also said facing downhill or sideways, with or without poles, or discussed the various gliding techniques to explore what separates skiing from snowboarding.

Why Rent Skis?

Skiing is well-known, and some have been practicing it for a long time. The origins of snow gliding date back to ancient times when Scandinavian prehistoric men used two planks to move on snowy expanses. Becoming a sport in the late 19th century, skiing has undergone significant evolution in the past three decades. More flexible, easier-to-use skis, secure and comfortable bindings and boots, have allowed the emergence of new practices such as freestyle (acrobatic skiing) and freeride (off-piste skiing). Everyone can now choose equipment perfectly suited to their skill level and desires.

However, ski boots are still heavy, and skis are cumbersome when you have to transport them for a weekend getaway. Renting, which also allows skiers to try out and switch equipment, is a good way to avoid the hassle of carrying your gear.

It also allows die-hard skiers to get a taste of the pleasure of snowboarding, the literal "board of the snows." While skiing has its origins in the far North, snowboarding has traveled to our resorts from... Hawaii! Indeed, the technique and equipment of snowboarding (riding sideways on a single board) come from surfing. From waves to powder snow, the favorite terrains of the early snowboarders in the 1980s, this board made a remarkable entrance into snowparks, where acrobatic moves are reminiscent of skateboarding.

If the pioneers of snowboarding were young enthusiasts of gliding, the practice has now expanded: one skier out of 8 has chosen the single board, leaving behind poles and stiff boots. The lightness of the equipment is undoubtedly a significant factor in the growing success of snowboarding in winter sports.

And What About Snowboarding?

But even if you ski like a "Chamois d'Or" (a renowned skier), don't think that snowboarding will come easily. Try it out by renting an easy board—just as with skiing, there are boards for all types of riding—and take some lessons with a State-Certified Ski Instructor. You can also switch equipment for free in our Ski Republic stores as long as you stay within an equivalent category.

The most talented skiers will grasp the unique balance (regular or goofy, depending on whether you lead with your right or left foot) in 3 or 4 lessons and discover a new pleasure of gliding. And some will definitively adopt snowboarding. They can rest assured about their skills: skiing, like riding a bicycle, is not easily forgotten!