home » Decor

Snowboard bindings history. What types of bindings are installed on a snowboard?

Snowboard bindings are an important piece of equipment that is responsible for transmitting the force you apply while controlling the board. Control over the board on the slope and ease of edging depend on their quality, manufacturability, rigidity, and settings.

There are several types of snowboard bindings: step in(no longer produced) hard(for high-speed descent on hard directional boards and plastic boots) and soft, the most popular today.

What does the mount consist of:

- mounting base, including a heel arch and a dial for setting the degree,

- highback with tilt adjustment,

Top and bottom straps, straps and clips.

The mount clips face outward, so you can easily distinguish the right mount from the left.

Take a look at the disk, it shows degrees from 0 in both directions. Additional holes in the disk are designed to adjust the position of the fasteners forward and backward.

It is necessary to understand the structure of fastenings, first of all, because the latest technologies and developments are devoted specifically to them. The battle for the title of the best today involves fastenings with the lowest weight, a quick fastening system and made from the most durable materials.

It is thanks to the design of the binding structure and the selection of the most advanced materials that manufacturers manage to take leading positions and make your skating comfortable and progressive.

Materials

Real space technologies are used in the production of materials for fastenings. Today, the main materials for the best fasteners are carbon, fiberglass, nylon, various aluminum alloys (which greatly enhance their strength), as well as premium steel for fastening parts such as screws. Today these are the strongest and lightest materials. However, the desire to purchase 100% carbon bindings is unlikely to end in success for your wallet. Choose reinforcement exactly where it's needed most, namely in the highback, heel arch and base. Balance the level of bindings with your level of skiing.

Modern technologies

Asymmetrical highback

This design of highbacks serves for the best contact between the boot and the binding, which means better control and energy transfer. A highback with such a structure perfectly fixes the leg exactly where it is needed. Recommended by manufacturers for wide stances, and therefore more suitable for freestyle or jibbing.

By the way, as a rule, a highback with this design has a lightweight design, which has a positive effect on the overall weight of the mounts.

Dead zones

The place where the bindings attach to the snowboard is the point where you feel the board the worst and the snowboard flexes the worst. Of course, if you are just starting to ride, you are unlikely to be able to feel it. However, as you improve your riding level, you will understand what exactly these dead zones are called.

In their quest for perfection, fastener manufacturers are trying to reduce the area of ​​such areas. This is achieved by reducing the area of ​​the base; different manufacturers have different patented methods. Some reduce the area of ​​the discs, others adapt the mounting base for rocker boards.

Also, in our opinion, an excellent solution is to mount special shock-absorbing cushions into the base. They, like ABS, protect you during particularly hard landings and significantly reduce vibration levels.

Straps

The straps don't just connect your leg to the anchor base. In modern bindings, straps, both upper and lower, do this in a clever way. They are made of a material that remembers the shape of the boot and simplifies the process of fastening. In addition, the surface of the straps is capable of excellent energy distribution. As a result, even with the strongest fixation, the leg will not be pinched.
Most of the design decisions were focused on the bottom strap design. So, today there are several variations.

Strap with traditional fixation over the boot. This type of fastening can be found from all manufacturers. The advantages of such a system are stability, good fixation and the least risk of snow getting under the strap itself.

A popular option for the lower strap is cap strap. Such a strap, according to manufacturers, better fixes the foot in the binding, pressing the boot along the length, which is very important when skating off-piste or in the park. However, it is important to perfectly fit the strap to the boot, otherwise snow will get in, the strap will slide down and the fixation will loosen.

The best, in our opinion, technological solution in lower strap designs is multi strap. This means that you can attach it in two positions, at your discretion.

Riding style

One of the important parameters is the riding style for which you should choose bindings. There is no clear gradation in style among manufacturers, but there are some similarities.

- Technical Freestyle/Freeride Bindings can be called the toughest among all existing on the market. Indeed, for skiing in deep snow or strong amplitude tricks on springboards, you need the most reliable fixation.

- Jibbing bindings, on the contrary, are softer.
- All mountain mounts– the most versatile and practically suitable for any type of riding.

Here it is worth talking separately about Flow mounts. The fastening system of this company is different from all other manufacturers. This Step-in-Go system. So, instead of two straps, there is a single strap that covers the boot quite comfortably. The highback also reclines back, making it easier to buckle up. There are different opinions about the pros and cons of such a system. An undeniable advantage is the speed and ease of insertion.

Installation of fasteners

So, you have already found the perfect pair for yourself. Now the question of installing a mount on a snowboard is relevant. You can easily do this yourself.

Please note that the board must fit the fastenings; there may be inconsistencies. For example, Burton makes boards with embeds that are only suitable for fastenings from the same company, so you need to pay attention to this. Burton has a special system of EST embeds, although not on all boards, but you have to be careful. As a last resort, there are special adapters for them for regular crepes, but these are unnecessary expenses and inconveniences. And it should be noted that Burton bindings with the EST system are only suitable for snowboards with the same system. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. Basically, manufacturers strive to make bindings that would fit absolutely any snowboard.

Rack

Which foot forward do you skate?

There is a stand "regular" - left foot forward, "goofy" - right. It is difficult for beginners to decide from the very beginning. You will understand your stance during the skating process, which foot forward will be comfortable for you to ride. But there is a proven way to find out this at home, which works 99%. Ask to be pushed in the back. Whichever leg you put forward is the leading one. Check several times to confirm the result.

So, for example, you are a goofy. Your right foot is in front. That is, you place the right mount closer to the nose of the snowboard.

Why so many mortgages?

To adjust the width of the stand. For some, a wide stance is more comfortable, especially in freestyle, while for others, on the contrary, a narrow stance is more convenient. To begin with, let's install a universal middle rack and select the middle mortgages.

When installing bindings, once you've decided on your stance, you need to consider your lead foot.

The choice of mounting angles is an important aspect

To do this, take a closer look at the degree scale indicated on the mounts and listen to your feelings. On average, the angle of rotation of the mount for the rear leg is about 10 degrees, for the front leg - 15-18 degrees, but this is a matter of taste and style of the rider. Many people prefer the so-called duck stance with the same angle for the back and front legs, which is especially good in the park when skating in switch (not in your own direction).

Today, there is a trend among board and binding manufacturers to move the binding holes back, which allows the board to ride more smoothly. In addition, the offset binding makes it easier to move through the snow without sinking or getting bogged down - ideal for skiing in deep snow.

Which mounts should I buy?

The main point when buying bindings is their compatibility with your boots.

Firstly, boots and bindings must be the correct size. Place your boot into the binding and tighten the straps. pay attention to sock, it should not stick out much or, conversely, sink into the mount. Most models have a gas pedal that can be adjusted forward or backward depending on the size of your boot.

Please also note the length of the straps, they should not be too long or too short. There should be no situations where the boot dangles and the length of the strap is too long to secure it, or, conversely, the boot is difficult to fasten.

Secondly, check the compatibility of components. Snap your boot into the mount and take a close look. The heel should be recessed into the corner of the binding, while the sole of the boot should be level on the base, and the back should fit snugly against the highback of the binding.

Note. When you fasten into the fastenings, do not step on the straps or straps, you can break them. When transporting, assemble the highback and close the straps to prevent damage to the straps.

If you buy equipment from the same brand or a ready-made set, you can be sure that everything will fit and work as it should, and you will not feel discomfort when riding.

When choosing fasteners, do not forget to pay attention to appearance. Today, colors and designs vary greatly, ranging from fluorescent brights to dark military colors. In addition, some manufacturers include in their collections bindings designed by famous artists, illustrators or riders themselves. But don’t forget: whatever the design of the bindings, it should reflect your personality on the slope.

Snowboard bindings are an integral part of winter equipment for every rider. The bindings directly connect you to the snowboard and transfer all muscle movements to the board. If your snowboard bindings are well matched to your board and riding style, you will have a more interesting riding experience.


Riding style

It's important to choose snowboard bindings that suit your riding style. Snowboard bindings fit into three general riding styles. You should choose the correct binding flex based on both your riding style and the flex of your boots.

It would be pointless to choose hard bindings with soft boots or vice versa. For best riding results, make sure the stiffness of your bindings is directly related to the stiffness of your boots.

Stiffness rating

Most manufacturers rate firmness from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest and 10 being very stiff. As a rule, the hardness rating is understood as follows: 1-2 (soft), 3-5 (medium), 6-8 (hard), and 9-10 (very hard). Ratings and stiffness may vary depending on the fixture and its materials. Three materials are usually used as a base: metal, plastic or composite.

Park or freestyle

Riders who spend most of their time in parkland performing tricks are considered freestylers. Softer snowboard bindings are suitable for this style of riding, which give the rider the opportunity to make mistakes and land more softly.

Allmountain

Freeride

This category includes sheer and deep snow and high speeds in desolate, difficult terrain. Such bindings should be more rigid for better responsiveness and energy transfer to the snowboard when moving quickly.

Types of fastenings

Snowboard bindings fall into 2 main categories:

Strap-in fastenings

This is the most common type of fastening. They typically use two straps (one above or across the toe and one across the ankle). Strap-in bindings offer different options for support, cushioning and other adjustments. They are suitable for all riding styles and conditions.


Quick Release Fasteners (REAR-ENTRY)

Such fastenings are also called speed entray (Speed ​​Entry literally: quick entry). They have a hinged highback that drops down like a bridge, allowing you to simply step into the bindings. In addition, the hinged back allows for quick and easy release from bindings. So your skiing friends won't have to wait for you anymore. Quick-release bindings are usually chosen by riders who prefer comfort.


Snowboard binding design

Snowboard bindings consist of several components:


Straps

Bottom cap strap. This strap sits on the front of the boot, wrapping around it for comfort and stability. It helps align your foot for better heel placement, which transfers more power to the board.

Traditional bottom strap. This strap is usually found at the bottom at the end of the bindings and simply holds your boot in place. It cannot be used as a cap strap.

Hybrid bottom strap. This strap can be used traditionally over the legs or angled forward for use as a cap strap.

Top strap This strap is large enough to fit securely around your foot. Without it, the fastenings would not hold.

One-component strap. Often found on modern and quick-release fasteners. This is one complete strap that covers your boot at the bottom of the toes and along the ankle.

Highbacks (rear walls)

  • The highback is a vertical plate that runs from the heel to the bottom of the shin.
  • It controls the edges of your board, which are located at the heel.
  • Stiff and high highbacks are designed for better control and speed.
  • Softer and shorter highbacks are designed for park riders and beginners looking for flexibility and lightness.
  • Custom highbacks allow you to easily adjust the position of the bindings on the fly, depending on your riding location and preferences.
  • Backless bindings provide a feeling closer to ice skating. Ankle mobility increases and board control decreases.

Base

  • This is the main link between the bindings and the snowboard.
  • Bases are made of various materials with different ratios of strength and rigidity. The base of the higher bindings is made from durable materials that optimize board rigidity, energy transfer and durability.
  • Cushioning in the base ensures comfort and proper energy transfer.
  • Canting is a slight tilt of the leg that causes your knee to lean slightly forward for a more natural stance.

Buckley

Buckle is a mechanism that fastens the belt to the strap, while simultaneously adjusting the degree of compression of the boot. Its main characteristic is strength. That's why good buckles are made of aluminum.

It should also be large enough so as not to cause problems when fastened with a glove or mitten and have a smooth movement, which provides a certain guarantee of further performance.

Fitment and compatibility with snowboard boots

For snowboard bindings you will find the following sizes: small S/M, medium M/L and large L/XL. Finding the correct size bindings for your boots is essential, so always check the manufacturer's binding size chart to see which binding size you require.

And even after looking at sizing charts, it's still important to check that the bindings are the right size for your boots. Do this by placing your boot in the bindings as if you were about to buckle it in: the boots should not stick out too much from the bindings, and the straps should not be too tight or loose. If the strap does not reach the buckle, it may need to be adjusted.

The straps on the mounts are usually adjustable on both sides. The heel should fit snugly against the bindings. Properly selected bindings should allow the boot to bend, but not dangle from side to side. If you have comfortable boots, and the bindings securely cover them without additional effort, then you have chosen everything correctly.


Snowboard compatibility

Just like snowboards, bindings come with a variety of mounting options. Snowboards have many mounting options and different types of mountings. Most models are compatible with each other, but it's best to make sure you don't buy the wrong set.

Luckily, most brands these days make universal discs or make multiple discs for different types of bindings, such as Burton's The Channel System.

Mortgages 2X4 and 4X4

  • Standard mounting platform.
  • The difference is the vertical distance (centimeters) between the bolt holes.


3D embeds (BURTON)

Compatible with most known holes, but rack options are more limited.

THE CHANNEL (BURTON) system

  • 2 rails are used instead of standard mortgages.
  • The best option is to buy custom EST mounts made by Burton. EST bindings allow the rider's feet to be in close contact with the board for increased sensitivity. This mounting system offers a wide variety of rack options.
  • Burton offers a special disc for non-EST bindings to use with The Channel system.


Cost of fastenings

Alas, good snowboard bindings from a decent manufacturer cannot be cheap. The price of fastenings is affected by:

  • materials from which the base is made;
  • the associated stiffness of the crepe;
  • associated shock-absorbing characteristics;
  • number of settings;
  • technology and bells and whistles;
  • brand.

The more bells and whistles a mount has that makes the rider’s life easier and settings, the more expensive they are. When purchasing mounts, it is important to understand what you need. How and where are you going to ride, how often, how important are these or those joys and are you willing to pay for them.

For beginners, simpler mounts are quite suitable, but for those with experience, it’s time to think about more expensive models. You can get acquainted with the full range of snowboard bindings and choose the right ones in our catalog.

Snowboard (sports equipment)

Snowboard with soft bindings

The first snowboards did not have good handling, which led to their use being banned in many ski resorts of the time. For this reason, for many years there was mutual hostility between skiers and snowboarders. By 1985, only 7% of resorts in the United States allowed snowboarders on their slopes, about the same in Europe. Along with the improvement of equipment and skating techniques, this figure increased. By 1990, most major resorts had a separate snowboarding slope. Today, approximately 97% of resorts in North America and Europe allow snowboarding, and about half of them have parks and halfpipes.

The highest number of snowboarders - about 6.6 million - was recorded in 2004. By 2008, this number had dropped to 5.1 million due to low snow winters and the so-called “return of skis,” a process particularly characteristic of Europe. The average age of snowboarders is from 18 to 24 years; women make up about 25% of the total.

Snowboarding equipment

Types of boards

A modern snowboard is a high-tech product, a fusion of technologies and based on modern composite materials, and therefore lightweight and durable. Typically, the internal structure of a snowboard is " sandwich", that is, a multilayer structure made of carbon fiber, fiberglass and wood, or the so-called. " cap"(It is possible to find a hybrid structure). The sliding surface is made mainly of polyethylene with special additives to reduce friction. The top of the snowboard has a protective coating and pattern. There are three main (not counting intermediate and exotic) types of snowboards:

  • Hard (Alpine). Directional, long and narrow boards with a pronounced nose and tail. Can only be used with rigid bindings and rigid boots. Designed for both sports disciplines (parallel slalom, parallel giant slalom, snowboardcross) and carving. This type of board is characterized by maximum speeds, precise reactions and demands on skills and physical preparation. Slalom boards are shorter and have a smaller radius, carving (extreme carving) boards have a larger length and radius and specific torsional rigidity.
  • Freeride. Directional boards for riding in virgin soil. As a rule, they have a considerable length, a wide nose and lugs shifted towards the tail. Boards of this type are used with both soft and hard setups. A striking representative of this type of boards are swallow tails. swallow-tail, russian dovetail) - long boards with a wide nose and tail, divided into two parts like the tail of a swallow. These boards are characterized by an increased sliding area, maximum effective edge length and the ability to “float” in the snow.
  • Soft: The most common type of boards. There are many varieties of this type, designed for the disciplines of freestyle, jibbing and universal (All-Mountain) for the backcountry. As a rule, boards of these types are short in length, have weak directionality or have no directionality (Twin-tip), and low rigidity. Jibbing boards are made without edges. Freestyle boards can be intended for its individual varieties: big air, halfpipe, snowboard park, etc.

For a beginner snowboarder, a softer snowboard is suitable. It more easily forgives mistakes when riding - with a “soft” board it is easier to learn to ride. However, upon reaching a certain level, you can “fall asleep” on such a board, and then, willy-nilly, you will want higher speeds and steep turns.

Types of snowboard deflections

Boots

There are two main types of snowboarding boots: hard and soft. Hard boots are a construction of an outer plastic boot and a soft inner part (that is, almost a complete analogue of ski boots), while soft boots differ in that the outer boot has little rigidity.

Fastenings

The leg mounts are installed on special threaded recesses called “ mortgages" The number of such recesses can be from 2 or more per mount, which provides the necessary adjustment for a specific riding style and for convenience. There are two main types of bindings, which differ in the way the boot is secured and the mechanics.

  • Soft bindings, consisting of a platform attached to the snowboard and special straps with latches; any soft boots are suitable for this type of binding.
  • Rigid fastenings. Available with automatic latch ( step-in- the boss on the toe of the boot clings to the bracket on the mount, and the heel, equipped with movable pins, is fixed in the holes in the back of the mount) and with a cap element ( frogs- the tide on the heel of the boot clings to a bracket on the mount, and a movable element is placed on the toe of the boot, fixing the final position). Only special hard plastic boots are suitable for rigid bindings.

Rack

It is generally accepted to divide athletes into “regulars”. regular- regular), placing the left leg forward, and “goofy” (eng. goofy- stupid), placing the right hand forward, as in skateboarding. This terminology, however, does not mean that one stance is correct and the other is not, or even that there are generally more “regulars” than “goofies.” Each athlete finds a stance that suits him best over time; some do not consider themselves to be either one or the other and constantly change stances.

The stance is determined by the angle of rotation of the bindings relative to the length of the snowboard. A right angle relative to the length of the board is taken to be zero degrees. Positive angles are those at which the toe is turned in the direction of movement; if the toe is turned in the opposite direction, the angle is considered negative. The front leg is usually not placed at a negative angle, as this causes the rider to move backwards. The back foot can be placed at either a positive or negative angle, depending on the athlete's goal. The snowboarder chooses the angles of rotation of the bindings in accordance with the task and based on personal preferences.

  • Straight The stance is popular among beginners who have not yet quite decided which way to go, riders or those who want to have a rigid stance when riding in forward and reverse directions. Both legs are placed across the board, that is, the angles are set to approximately 0°. Of course, in practice, these angles are rarely zero, due to the structural features of the legs, which, in turn, leads to an automatic transition to a stance duck foot. It is also necessary to remember that excessively hanging the toes of the boots over the edges of the board will inevitably lead to touching the slope, which usually entails a fall.
  • Duck stand or Duck foot(English) Duck stance, Duck foot) is useful for tricks because it assumes the rider's feet are symmetrical relative to the center of the board. In general, the legs in this stance are not necessarily turned to the same angle. The back leg simply needs to be turned out at an angle less than zero. Thus, the rider can change direction at any time. This change of stance during movement is called a feint (sometimes “interception”). fakie, switch- feint, switch).
  • Directed suitable in most cases, the front leg is turned at an angle of approximately 15° to 21°, and the rear leg is turned at an angle of 0° to 10°. This stance is usually recommended by instructors; The stability of such a stance is also noted in some martial arts. On the other hand, the athlete’s balance is significantly different when riding in a stance opposite to the main one. This can be compensated for by learning to ride backwards in this stance, or by choosing a different stance, such as a flat or straight stance.
  • Carving rack, strongly directed, also sometimes alpine(tracing paper from English) alpine- alpine, alpine) the front leg is turned at an angle of up to 90°, the back leg is usually slightly less. Used by athletes and on hard equipment.

It should be remembered that the given angles are not standardized in any way, and the rider himself, over time, selects the angles for each of the possible stances.

For several years now, snowboarding has been officially included in the program of the Olympic Games. It is worth recognizing that its popularity over the years has not only not fallen, but has increased on a cosmic scale. Trying to get on a board and experience unprecedented excitement is a fixation for many people, but few of them actually go to the store, buy a snowboard and equipment, and then, along with all their belongings, go to the snowy peaks.

These daredevils deserve much praise, but more than anything else, they need clear instructions that can protect them from mistakes and serious injuries. Since the board is just one of the rider’s tools, it is important to understand what the whole kit consists of, how to select it and why you can’t skimp on it. A separate line of expenses is always the corresponding ones, and along with them, special ones will allow the snowboarder to establish himself on the surface of his equipment.

Snowboard binding options

Bindings are one of the most significant pieces of equipment. They do not just hold the boots, but enable the owner to maintain balance during the descent. The main function of these products is to fully convey the efforts made by a person and directed to the board. Today, the sports market offers snowboarders several options, among which are the following types of snowboard bindings:

  1. Step mounts are the most popular of all those offered for sale. They are very simple in structure and quite reliable in operation. In fact, step fastenings are a kind of base, which is produced by many manufacturers as a universal fastening option. They are arranged in a simple way: the lower section of the sole is a horizontal frame platform, which smoothly passes into the aft part, which is a vertical stupor designed to hold the heel of the shoe. This entire configuration fits very tightly to the boots and allows the slightest impulses to be transmitted to the board. This type of fastener is replete with all sorts of straps and shapes, but still remains interesting to representatives of a wide variety of snowboarding styles.
  2. Fasteners (with latches). In cases where fasteners have to be frequently rearranged and separated from shoes, fasteners are the most optimal solution. Their main advantage is ease of use: in order to go conquer the slopes, you just need to place your foot in the desired position and snap the fastener into place. Problems can only arise if the fastening “flies off” and has to be reinstalled along the way: securing the board while knee-deep in loose snow will be almost impossible.
  3. Mounts with a back that can be fixed. This invention is actually innovative and is manufactured exclusively by one company - Flow. If you look at it, this product is something between a fixative and a steppe. It miraculously combines all the technical characteristics that are important to a snowboarder: the fasteners ensure reliability and are accessible to the consumer. Although it seems visually similar to a conventional fastening, practice shows that the fixation and position of the heel and front fastenings are strikingly different. The locking heel firmly presses the shoes and guarantees complete safety for the rider.
  4. The disc mounts feature a durable frame, lever holder and steel stop. They are rightfully considered the toughest and are becoming necessary for athletes riding on high-speed tracks.
  5. Frameless fasteners are a development that not every manufacturer has mastered. Products that appeared at the turn of the century are completely devoid of any frame, so their lower part practically touches the snowboard itself (the gap is measured in millimeters). According to experts, frameless bindings provide riders with complete control over the board and, accordingly, the ability to perform the most risky figures. The selection of such components should be carried out by professionals, because the slightest error in the size range can be fatal. The parameters of the stance are always determined purely individually, in accordance with the parameters of the snowboard.

This story began in 1929 with an epic descent from a snow-capped mountain, which was carried out by a certain M.J. "Jack" Burchett. The whole epic thing was that he made the descent on a wide board, and not on skis, controlling it with an ordinary clothesline. Why he needed this is shrouded in the darkness of history, but Jackie decided to register his “feat”.

1929: Michael Burchett tries to "snowboard" on a piece of plywood, his legs are secured with a piece of material and a leash.

1939: Vern Wickland sleds sideways down a small hill in Chicago. He patents a sled similar to a snowboard.

IN 1963 year, American schoolboy Tom Sims designed and defended his school project - a board for skating down the mountains. He called his invention “Ski Board”.

Two years later, in 1965 Sherman Poppien ( Sherman Poppen) in a noble desire to save his daughter from the unbearable monotony of ski resorts, took another step towards formalizing the idea of ​​snowboarding. Sherman Poppen fastened two skis together, attached a rope for control, and even came up with a name - “snerfer”, from the English words snow and surf. The girl appreciated her daddy’s invention and showed it to her friends. They also imbued with the drive of the new entertainment. And Poppen himself, to the delight of his daughter’s delight, decided to patent his creation. He received a patent for the invention, after which he transferred the right to industrial production of “snerfers” to the Brunswick company. Already in 1966, more than half a million prototype “snow boards” were sold. To stimulate sales, the first downhill snurfer competitions were held under the auspices of Brunswick. By the way, the then young Jack Barton took part in them ( Jake Burton), which we will talk about a little later.

In the meantime, Barton was mastering - and, I must say, quite successfully - the snurfer, another surfing fan, an American of Serbian origin Dimitri Milovich ( Dimitrije Milovich), invented a device for downhill skiing, which became, in fact, the direct ancestor of the modern snowboard. Milovich's board was surf-shaped and bore vestigial traces of slalom skiing. Milovich also provided it with metal edgings. It happened in 1970 year.

1972 year was marked in the history of snowboarding by the fact that Bob Webber ( Bob Webber) finally managed to obtain a patent for his “snow” board – “skiboard”

TO 1975 year, Milovich managed to organize mass production of snowboards with the Winterstick logo in Utah. His creation got rid of metal edges. Milovich had practice skating on virgin snow, where there was no need for edges. By the time production began, Milovich also received a patent for the original “dovetail” shape, and a year later, in ’76, he patented a snowboard with metal edges on both sides. In March 1975, Milovich's work was noticed by Newsweek magazine, which mentioned him and his Winterstick brand in an article on snowboarding. In pursuit of readership aspirations, Powder magazine featured a centerfold photo of Milovich with his board.

IN 1977 Jack Barton graduated from college and moved to the town of Stratton Mountain, Vermont. Here he begins work on what would later be called Burton Snowboards. In the same year Bob Webber ( Bob Webber) creates the “yellow banana,” a skateboard with a polyethylene base. The “yellow banana” idea was taken up by Tommy Sims, who equipped Weber’s board with a skateboard deck. At the end of 1977, Sims launched the production of skiboards under the Sims brand. At the same time, Mike Olsen designed his first snowboard ( Mike Olsen). He continued to work on his board until he graduated from college. In 1984, immediately after leaving college, Mike organized a company that began producing snowboards under the GNU brand.

1979 The year was remembered for a major scandal in Michigan, at the annual snurfer downhill competition. Jack Barton announced his desire to perform on his own equipment - an original board with rubber arc-shaped fastenings. The organizers resisted, but eventually allowed Barton to compete under pressure from other competitors. The results of his performance in narrow circles are still disputed. By the way, the first tricks on a snowboard were demonstrated at the same competition. Paul Graves ( Paul Graves), the pro-rider from Snurfer performed four full rotations, dropped to one knee during the descent and deftly jumped off the board at the finish. The public was amazed.

Also in 1979, Mark Anolik ( Mark Anolik) built the world's first half-pipe near Lake Tahoe. The first U-shaped tube in the history of winter sports attracted the attention of journalists from a dozen skateboarding publications. And two of them - Skateboarder and Action Now - without much hesitation, announced in their articles the birth of a new sport - snowboarding.

IN 1980 In the same year, parallel developments by Burton and Winterstick almost simultaneously led to the idea of ​​​​using ski technology in the production of boards. The sliding surface of the snowboard has finally become the P-Tex base.

IN 1982 In the same year, the first National Snowsurfing Competition was established by the first snurfer stuntman, Paul Graves. They were called “The Face” and took place on the slopes of Suicide Six Ski Area, Vermont. We competed in two disciplines at once - slalom and timed descent. For the first time, all fans of winter racing were able to fully experience the taste of competition. Among them, by the way, were Jack Barton and Tommy Sims. The latter took the highest award in the downhill, but crashed into the limiters beyond the finish line and broke his finger. Burton Team rider Doug Barton ( Doug Bouton).

1983 The year was marked by the appearance of high-back snowboard bindings. The right of primacy in this improvement was disputed by Louis Fornier ( Louis Fornier) and Jeff Grell ( Jeff Grell).

IN 1985 Several significant events in the history of snowboarding took place in the year. The largest companies - Sims and Burton - were the first to use metal edges in their models (1500 FE and Performer, respectively), which meant the final and irrevocable abandonment of surfing and a focus on alpine skiing. Following the Sims 1500 FE, Sims introduced the first round tail board designed for freestyle snow. She was named Terry Kidwell. GNU released the first carving board this year. Mike Olson had a hand in its creation.

The final touch of 1985 was the release of the first issue of Absolutely Radical magazine. It was dedicated exclusively to snowboarding, and therefore changed its name at the beginning of 1986. The new one sounded like International Snowboard Magazine.

1986 is considered the year of birth of European snowboarding. It was then that the first official European competitions, Swiss Championships, St. Moritz. In the same year, Regis Rolland presented to the general public his first film called “Apocalypse Snow”, in which perhaps the most insane snowboarding stunts were demonstrated - jumping over roads, racing against avalanches and the like.

1987 was a poor year for events in the life of snowboarding and was marked only by the first issue of Transworld Snowboarding Magazine.

IN 1990 Jack Barton bought the patent for his "skiboard" from Bob Weber.

1994 the year was triumphant for the young sport. Snowboarding was included in the program of the Winter Olympic Games.

IN 1998 year, at the Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan, snowboarders provoked a loud scandal. The first Olympic champion of the event, boarder from Canada, Ross Rebagliatti, was caught taking marijuana during doping tests. The Canadian turned out to be resourceful, and quickly explained this by saying that he inhaled marijuana smoke by accident - on the eve of the competition, he was at a party where they used the plant drug. Traces of the drug in the blood were weak, but Rebagliatti was believed and the medal was returned. However, the reputation of “bad boys” for a long time stuck with snowboarders.

IN 2000 snowboarding has become one of the most popular sports in the United States. The number of extreme skiers has exceeded seven million people, and the annual increase is 51.2%. For comparison, at that time 14 million people in the United States were engaged in alpine skiing, but the number of alpine skiers increased annually by only 6%. In 2000, snowboarding reached Russia. Finally, there is a decent selection of snowboards in stores.

Article source: http://icezone.ru