How do I know if I’m regular or goofy on a snowboard?

Try the slide, push and stairs tests. Burton’s stance guide says the foot that leads when you slide in socks is your front foot, and the foot that lands on the first stair is usually your back foot. Left foot forward is regular; right foot forward is goofy.

Is it better to ride regular or goofy?

Neither. They are mirror images of each other. Ride the stance that feels most natural and balanced for you.

Is goofy stance rare?

It is less common but far from rare. Evo’s beginner guide estimates about 30% of riders are goofy, and there is no disadvantage to it; it is simply the mirror image of regular.

Does being left-handed make you goofy?

Not reliably. Handedness is at best a loose clue, and plenty of right-handed people ride goofy and vice versa. Your feet matter more than your hands, so use the slide, push, stairs and kick tests and go with what feels natural on the snow.

How do you tell the nose and tail of a snowboard apart?

On a directional board the nose and tail usually differ in shape, length or flex, and the bindings are often set back toward the tail. On a twin the ends can look the same, so the front is whichever end your front foot points toward. If in doubt, check the manufacturer’s product page or ask the shop.

How do I keep my balance on a snowboard?

Flex your ankles and knees, keep your weight centered between your feet, stand tall through your upper body and look ahead instead of at your feet. Small movements in your legs do the balancing.

Can I switch my snowboard bindings from regular to goofy?

Yes. The bindings are repositioned so your new front foot is nearer the nose and the angles are adjusted for the new direction. A rental shop will do it for you; on your own board, follow the binding manual or ask a shop.

Gear guide

Before your first day

Find your snowboard stance

To stand on a snowboard, you face sideways with one foot near the nose and one near the tail, knees soft and weight centered. The only real decision is which foot goes in front, and a few quick tests will tell you.

Part of the beginner’s guide to snowboarding