Snowboarding's Dangerous Descent: Are We Failing Our Youth?

Snowboarding: A Descent into Recklessness? Top Ten Tricks Threatening Youth Today

Now, I’ve always been a fan of a good, wholesome winter sport. Skiing, perhaps a bit of ice fishing – activities that build character and respect for the elements. But this…this snowboarding…it's a different beast altogether. Seems like all they do is try to defy gravity and common sense. And frankly, it’s getting out of hand.

I’ve spent the last week researching – alright, watching videos on that “You Tube” thing my grandson keeps talking about – and I’m frankly appalled. These “tricks,” as they call them, are less about sport and more about showing off and potentially breaking bones. I’ve compiled a list, a warning, if you will, of the top ten most concerning maneuvers these boarders are attempting.

1. The “Ollie.” Seems harmless enough, a little jump. But it’s the gateway drug, I tell you! It starts with a little pop and ends with launching yourself off of mountains.

2. The “Frontside 180.” Spinning around… on a board… going downhill. What could possibly go wrong? It’s just begging for a twisted ankle.

3. The “Backside 180.” Same as above, but…backwards. Honestly, the dedication to making things more difficult is baffling.

4. The “Boardslide.” Grinding on a rail? This isn't snowboarding, this is vandalism with added velocity. Someone needs to teach these kids respect for property.

5. The “50-50.” Another grinding trick. Why they aren’t just riding the snow is beyond me.

6. The “Kickflip.” They’re flipping the board under their feet while airborne. It’s practically begging for a concussion.

7. The “Mute Grab.” Grabbing the board mid-air. This is just…showing off. Pure vanity.

8. The “Indy Grab.” Another grab, another needless risk. I haven't even seen anyone do a simple plow stop in these videos.

9. The “Cab 900.” Ninety degrees of rotation…while in the air. This is advanced, they say. Advanced reckless, more like.

10. “Weird Advanced Snowboard Tricks” (as one of these “Ed Shreds” calls them). Honestly, I don't even understand half of these. Flips, spins, and contortions that look like something out of a circus. 45,000 views? What are we teaching our children?!

Now, I understand some will say this is “progress” or “athleticism.” I say it’s a symptom of a society that’s lost its grip on common sense. Give me a good, steady run down a gentle slope any day. Leave the flips and grinds to the daredevils – and maybe a good insurance policy.