Beginner to Intermediate: Snowboard Progress Guide

So… you’ve survived your first days on the board without turning into a snowball. Big win.
Now what?

Hey fam — it’s Hayley (@hayleyorsii) 💖 and let me just say: I totally remember the struggle of those early snowboarding days. Slipping on the lift, falling every 3 seconds, wondering if I’d ever make a clean turn. Fast forward a few seasons, and here I am — riding confidently, hitting small jumps, and loving every second of it.

If you're wondering how to make that jump from beginner to intermediate snowboarder, you're in the right place. I’m breaking it all down: what helped me progress, tips no one tells you, and some must-have gear that gave me way more confidence.

🔥 Why You’re Not Stuck — You’re Leveling Up

The leap from beginner to intermediate is where the real fun begins. You’re no longer spending the day wiping out (well, not as much), and it’s time to unlock new terrain, tricks, and confidence.

Here’s how we’re breaking it down:

1. Body awareness & balance

2. Mastering turns & edge control

3. Riding switch & carving basics

4. Park intro (if you’re feeling spicy 😉)

5. Choosing the right gear (yes, baggy is better)

6. Confidence-building mindset tips

💡 What Defines “Intermediate” Snowboarding?

You don’t need to be throwing tricks to be intermediate. Here’s how I define it:

• You can link turns on green and easy blue runs

• You’ve learned to control speed with edges, not just falling leaf

• You start to feel fluidity and rhythm in your riding

• You can ride toe and heel side without panicking

• You’re trying switch , maybe even dabbling in small jumps or boxes

If that sounds like your next goal, keep reading. 💪

🪜 Step-by-Step: How I Progressed (and You Can Too)

1. Master the Basics – but Do It   Well

I know, basics can feel boring. But if you can’t balance, edge, and stop without thinking, progression will be tough.

Focus on:

• Edge control (especially on your toe side!)

• Stance & weight distribution

• Stopping confidently both ways

2. Ride with Friends Who Push You

The game changed for me when I started riding with people slightly better than me. It’s motivating, and you start picking up technique just by watching.

3. Video Yourself Riding

You’ll be shocked at what you’re actually doing vs what it feels like. This helped me fix posture, timing, and carve deeper turns.

4. Learn to Carve

Carving = shifting from “beginner” to “real snowboarder” in my book.

Key tip: fully commit to each edge. Practice slow, wide S-turns, then gradually make them tighter.

5. Use Terrain to Your Advantage

Start riding mellow blues and easy side hits. Use rollers to practice timing, and play with speed control on steeper runs.

🧠 Off-the-Snow Training = Faster Progress

Yes, what you do off the mountain matters. Here’s what I did (and still do):

💪 Strength Training

• Squats & lunges (build leg power)

• Planks (hello core!)

• Resistance bands for ankle & knee control

🤸 Balance & Flexibility

• Indo board (so good for mimicking turns)

• Yoga – especially for hips, hamstrings, and back

• Light cardio for endurance

👕 Gear That Boosted My Confidence

When I started dressing like a snowboarder, I felt like one — and that mental shift? Huge.

Snowverb Gear Picks:

• Baggy Snow Pants : Warm, water-resistant, and flexible. The extra space gives me better range of motion, especially for turns and tricks.

• Baggy Snow Jacket : Lightweight but cozy. Plus, I love the oversized fit — it screams mountain style.

Pro Tip: Break in your boots during the off-season with short sessions — your feet will thank you later.

🌟 Hayley’s Quick-Tip Checklist:

✅ Link clean S-turns
✅ Ride switch 20% of your day
✅ Try one new feature per week
✅ Learn to carve with intention
✅ Film yourself and review
✅ Wear gear that makes you feel BOSS

❓ FAQ: Beginner to Intermediate Snowboarding

🔥 Final Thoughts: You Got This

Progressing in snowboarding isn’t always fast, but it’s so worth it. I promise — those first clean turns feel like flying.

Leveling up in snowboarding isn’t about pushing harder — it’s about riding smarter. With the right mindset, some epic Snowverb gear, and a few solid riding habits, you’ll be cruising from beginner to intermediate like it’s second nature.

I’m cheering you on, every step of the way. 💖
Let’s ride 💨