If you're looking for a new extreme sport to try, sandboarding might be just the thing for you!
This activity is similar to snowboarding, but it's done on sand dunes instead of snow-covered mountains. This adrenaline-pumping sport is perfect for those who love the thrill of speed and adventure.
It can be a lot of fun, but is it difficult? What's the verdict?
Let's take a closer look at the challenge of sandboarding to see if it's something you're up for.
Is Sandboarding an Extreme Sport?
When most people think of extreme sports, they envision activities like base jumping, rock climbing, or skydiving.
But sandboarding? Is it really that extreme? After all, how hard can it be to ride down a sand dune on a board?
As it turns out, sandboarding can actually be quite extreme. The dunes can be incredibly steep and tall, reaching heights of up to 500 feet!
The sand itself is often loose and powdery, making it challenging to keep your balance. And if you happen to wipe out, you'll be covered in sand from head to toe.
You'll need to be in good shape and have excellent balance to sandboard successfully.
Sandboarding also requires climbing up the top of sand dunes, which can be exhausting in the hot sun.
There's also the fact that sandboarding takes place in hot desert climates, so you have to be prepared for the heat and sun.
All of these factors combine to make sandboarding a challenging and extreme sport.
How Difficult is Sandboarding?
Now that we know a little bit more about the sport, let's answer the question: how difficult is sandboarding?
There are a few things that make it challenging. First, as we mentioned before, the dunes can be extremely steep. This means that you'll need to have good balance and coordination to keep from falling off your board.
Second, the sand itself can be tricky to maneuver on. It's often loose and powdery, making it hard to stay on your feet (or on your board).
Third, sandboarding takes place in hot desert climates, so you need to be prepared for the heat and sun. This can be a challenge, especially if you're not used to the heat.
Fourth, if you wipe out, you'll be covered in sand. This can be uncomfortable and irritating, especially if it gets in your eyes or mouth.
Fifth, although relatively rare, there is a risk of getting injured while sandboarding. This is usually due to falls or collisions with other sandboarders.
All of these factors combine to make sandboarding a challenging sport. It's not impossible, but it does require some skill and practice.
Is Sandboarding Dangerous?
Now that we've answered the question of how difficult sandboarding is, let's talk about whether or not it's dangerous.
As with any extreme sport, there is always a risk of injury. This is especially true with sandboarding due to the height of the dunes and the loose, powdery sand.
Beginners are especially at risk of injury, as they may not have the experience or skill necessary to avoid wipeouts and collisions.
There have been reports of sandboarders sustaining serious injuries, including broken bones and concussions.
Death, while rare, is also a possibility.
That being said, sandboarding is not inherently dangerous. With a little bit of practice and caution, you can reduce the risk of injury and have a great time doing this extreme sport!
How to Stay Safe While Sandboarding?
Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while sandboarding:
- Always wear a helmet. This will protect your head in case of a fall or collision. Don't make the mistake of thinking that sandboarding is safe because you're not going fast. The dunes can be extremely steep, and falls can be challenging. A helmet could save your life.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas with other sandboarders. This will reduce the risk of collisions. If you do encounter other sandboarders, be sure to give them plenty of space.
- Take your time and don't try to go too fast. It's tempting to want to race down the dunes, but it's not worth risking an accident. Start slow and work your way up to higher speeds.
- Be sure to stay hydrated. Sandboarding takes place in hot, desert climates, so drinking plenty of water is important to avoid dehydration. You could also consider bringing along some snacks to keep your energy up.
- If you wipe out, try to stay calm and avoid moving too much. This will help prevent further injury. Once you've assessed the situation, gently get up and brush yourself off.
Conclusion
Just like any other sport, sandboarding has its own set of difficulties. However, as long as you take the necessary precautions, it can be a safe and fun activity!
Don't be discouraged if you don't get the hang of it right away. With a little bit of practice, you'll be riding the dunes like a pro in no time!
Wanna know more about sandboarding? Check out our introduction to the sport! It covers everything you need to know, from choosing the right gear to knowing the best places to sandboard.
See you at the dunes!
FAQs
How hard is sandboarding? ›
As it turns out, sandboarding can actually be quite extreme. The dunes can be incredibly steep and tall, reaching heights of up to 500 feet! The sand itself is often loose and powdery, making it challenging to keep your balance.
Is it easy to sandboard? ›Sandboarding, sand sledding and even sand skiing are all relatively easy to practice if you use proper equipment and follow a few basic steps. If you are not sure how to sandboard, make sure to prepare everything you need in advance.
How do you prepare for sandboarding? ›Wax up your sandboard, adjust the bindings, apply sunscreen, put your sunglasses and helmet on, wear elbow and knee pads, and stay hydrated all the time. Never ride a dune without someone around. In case of an accident, you'll need a friend or relative to help you and call emergency services.
How do you sandboard for beginners? ›To sandboard, start by getting the proper board and protective gear. Then, find sand dunes nearby and do a first run. You can also try stopping and turning on a sandboard. With enough practice, you'll be boarding down the dunes with ease in no time.
How hard is it to climb a sand dune? ›Dune climbing is no easy feat, but the challenge is what makes it such a fun and rewarding activity. Climbing on sand dunes differs from hiking for the lack of trails and the fact that you are, well, attempting to climb on a huge pile of soft sand, inevitably ending up half step back after each step forward.
How fast are sand dunes? ›She described field work in the desert in Qatar, where an approximately 16-foot high dune may move at the speed of about 65 feet per year, or a 98-foot high dune moves at 16 feet per year. By comparison, the sand heaps in the lab moved at about 65 feet per hour.
How fast can you sandboard? ›On 12 Apr 1999, Erik Johnson (USA) reached a top speed of 51mph 82kph at the Sand Master Jam, held at Dumont Dunes, California, USA.
Can you sit on a sandboard? ›Sandboarding involves standing on the board, either with or without bindings and riding down the dunes. There are also the options to practice lying down on the belly or sitting on the board.
Can you sandboard sitting down? ›Sandboarding is a boardsport and extreme sport similar to snowboarding that involves riding across or down a sand dune while standing on a board, either with both feet strapped in or while standing loose, without bindings. Sandboarding can also be practised sitting down or lying on the belly or the back.
What age is sandboarding for? ›Sandboarding is suitable for all ages and abilities.
Do you wax the bottom of a sandboard? ›
Before each ride, apply a light coat of wax to the base of your sandboard (this is the glossy white surface allowing the board to slide over the sand) Waxing the rail edges as well as the base will increase your turning speed and help reduce drag from the boards side-cut and will also help preserve the timber edges ...
What does sandboarding feel like? ›1. Sandboarding feels more like surfing than snowboarding. While sandboards are aesthetically more similar to a snowboard than a surfboard, dune sledging really feels more like surfing than snowboarding.
Do you need a helmet for sandboarding? ›Similar to other boarding sports equipment; an helmet, knee and elbow pads are good for protection. It is useful to choose lightweight but strong knee and elbow pads. Also, don't forget to protect your eyes from sand and bring your sunglasses with you.
What slides on sand the best? ›Sandboards and sand sleds are specifically made for sand, featuring a special design with extra slick base material and special wax; these work best for sliding in most conditions. See below for rental locations. Snow sleds, snowboards and skis only slide on very wet sand after rain or snow.
What equipment do you need for sandboarding? ›The sport, also known as dune surfing or sand surfing, requires a specially-shaped board, gloves, goggles, a helmet, knee and elbow pads. Some pilots also apply sandboard wax to increase grip. Remember that the majority of dunes located on beaches are extremely sensitive.
How do you walk up a sand dune? ›Aim at the highest dune and start walking. Each step is forgiving as the soft sand falls away and creates an impression. One step forward, half step back. Every few minutes, stop and look around.
How deep are sand dunes? ›The depth of sand in ergs varies widely around the world, ranging from only a few centimeters deep in the Selima Sand Sheet of Southern Egypt, to approximately 1 m (3.3 ft) in the Simpson Desert, and 21–43 m (69–141 ft) in the Sahara. This is far shallower than ergs in prehistoric times were.
What are 3 facts about sand dunes? ›A dune is a mound of sand formed by the wind, usually along the beach or in a desert. Dunes form when wind blows sand into a sheltered area behind an obstacle. Dunes grow as grains of sand accumulate. Every dune has a windward side and a slipface.
Can you walk on sand dunes? ›Sand dunes are very fragile, so it's important to avoid walking on them. Signs posted along the beach ask guests to use walkways. Always follow the posted signs and use the provided walkways to get to the beach so you do not disrupt the dunes.
Can you sand board in the rain? ›Q: Can you go in the rain? A: The boards stick to wet sand, so make sure the sand is dry. Sometimes it may take a day or two after a hard rain for the sand to create ideal dry conditions for the sandboarding.
Can you sandboard in the rain? ›
Best Time to Visit
By the late afternoon, a strong westerly breeze sets in which can make sandboarding a bit harder. You can visit the sand dunes all year round, but you want to avoid visiting when raining or after rain (the sand gets sticky and difficult to board down).
4WD Tours run rain, hail or shine – in fact sandboards go faster when its wet!
Do you wear shoes at the sand dunes? ›No shoes are allowed on the bindings. You must put your bare feet or socks on the board. The sandboard is to the left. The sand sled is to the right.
What do you wear to climb sand dunes? ›Bring a hat, gloves, wool socks, and a warm jacket for the night year round, because temperatures can drop. For sun and sand protection, pack a sun hat, sun gloves, sunglasses, long-sleeve shirt with UPF sun protection, and a bandana or lightweight face and neck cover like a Buff or Discrete neck buff.
What is on the bottom of a sandboard? ›The board bottom is waxed with a special sandboard wax so that it glides smoothly along the sand. Boards range in length from about the size of a longboard skateboard to the size of a snowboard, depending on the boarder's style.
Do you wear shoes when sandboarding? ›If your board is equipped with foot straps, no footwear at all is required when sandboarding. If you are using sandboard bindings, or if you are in a desert location with very hot sand, you will then need to protect your feet by wearing closed toe shoes or boots.
What is the safest way to ride on a sand dune? ›Make sure you can be seen - it is always safer to ride on top of a ridge than down at the bottom of a drop-off that someone may fly over. Also make sure your whip flag is at least 8 ft. off the ground and does not bend too much while riding.
Do you need a special board to sandboard? ›So, while you can use a snowboard to sandboard, it might not be the best option, especially if you're a beginner. If you're just starting out, we recommend using a sandboard that's specifically designed for riding on sand. These boards are usually smaller and lighter than snowboards, making them easier to control.
Is sand boarding fun? ›Sandboarding can be an incredibly fun and enjoyable experience, even for beginners. The location, quality of the board, waxing procedure, weather and terrain conditions all contribute to how enjoyable a ride can be.
What are the health benefits of sandboarding? ›Strength and endurance: Sandboarding requires the use of various muscle groups, including the legs, core, and upper body. This can help to improve overall strength and endurance. Balance and coordination: Sandboarding requires good balance and coordination to navigate the dune and stay on the board.
What are the benefits of sandboarding? ›
Riding sandboards builds muscles in the legs, arms, back, and core. It is a low-impact workout that does not require much exertion. Riding sandboards also increases flexibility and endurance. Riding sandboards is a great way to get some exercise.
How do you slide down sand dunes? ›Don't waste time with snow sleds, saucers, cardboard, or soft plastic items. These won't slide on dry sand. Sandboards and sand sleds are specifically made for sand, featuring a special design with extra slick base material and special wax; these work best for sliding in most conditions.
What kind of wax do you use for sandboarding? ›Speed Wax is imbibed with special emollients to clean and condition the base for reduced wear and extended base life. This is by far the most popular sandboard wax in use today.
Can you carve on a sandboard? ›The rider stands on the sandboard and has the ability to “carve” and steer the board down the dune. The rider sits on the sand sled (feet downhill) and has little to no control of the sled.
How long is a sandboard? ›The common length of a sandboard ranges anywhere from 95-125 cm. While there are extra long boards available in the range of 140-160 cm, these are usually custom-made and used primarily by very experienced sandboarders.
Can you sandboard at the White sand dunes? ›The gypsum dunes at White Sands are great for sand sledding or sand boarding.
Is sandboarding an extreme sport? ›Sand surfing, also known as sandboarding, is one of the newest extreme sports discovered in the search for adrenaline.
What do people use for sandboarding? ›Special clothing isn't necessary for the sand – you simply need a board, wax and goggles if you are sandboarding or a pair of skis and ski poles if you are sand skiing. You can use a snowboard on the sand but it will never reach the speeds or offer the handling of a specially adapted sandboard.
What do you wear to sand dunes? ›Bring a hat, gloves, wool socks, and a warm jacket for the night year round, because temperatures can drop. For sun and sand protection, pack a sun hat, sun gloves, sunglasses, long-sleeve shirt with UPF sun protection, and a bandana or lightweight face and neck cover like a Buff or Discrete neck buff.
What is the best thing to slide down sand dunes? ›Don't waste time with snow sleds, saucers, cardboard, or soft plastic items. These won't slide on dry sand. Sandboards and sand sleds are specifically made for sand, featuring a special design with extra slick base material and special wax; these work best for sliding in most conditions.
Do you need paddle tires in sand dunes? ›
Although paddle tires are known to be the ideal tire for the dunes, some experienced duners actually prefer regular dirt tires. A good knob tire will work just fine in the dunes as long as you lower the tire pressure.