Last Updated on June 7, 2023

Sandboarding, the heart-pumping sport that’s taking the world by storm, is not for the faint of heart. It involves sliding down steep sand dunes on a board, similar to snowboarding.

But don’t be intimidated, we’re here to give you the ultimate guide to getting started with sandboarding.

But what exactly is sandboarding? Well, it’s an extreme sport that combines elements of snowboarding and surfing.

It’s the perfect activity for adrenaline junkies who are seeking to experience the ultimate thrill of speed and sliding down steep slopes.

Unlike snowboarding, sandboarding doesn’t require any special equipment, making it more accessible to those who want to give it a try.

Moreover, sandboarding can be done anywhere there’s a sand dune, from the deserts of Dubai to the beaches of Australia.

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Unlimited sandboarding at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens (NSW)
andboarding at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, Australia

Getting Started with Sandboarding

First things first, you need to find a good sand dune. Look for one that’s at least 30 feet high and has a gentle slope. It’s important to start on a smaller dune to get used to the feeling of sliding on the sand.

Once you’ve found a good dune, it’s time to rent or buy a sandboard. Sandboards are similar to snowboards, but they’re usually wider and have a different base material to glide on the sand.

You can rent a board at a local surf or outdoor shop, or if you’re planning on doing it often, you may want to invest in your own board.

Before you hit the dunes, make sure you’re wearing the right gear. You’ll need to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun. You should also wear closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from the hot sand.

What to Use for Sandboarding

When it comes to sandboarding, the board itself is the most crucial piece of equipment. Sandboards come in different shapes and sizes, with variations in length, width, and thickness depending on the rider’s preference and skill level.

Typically, sandboards are shorter and wider than snowboards, with a length ranging from 90 to 150 cm and a width of 30 to 50 cm.

The construction of a sandboard is also different from that of a snowboard. Unlike snowboards, which are usually made of laminated wood, sandboards are equipped with a laminated sheet of Formica at the bottom.

That said, just having a well-built sandboard is not enough. To ensure a smooth and fast ride, riders need to apply wax to the base of their board.

Waxing the base of a sandboard is similar to waxing the base of a snowboard. It helps to reduce friction between the board and the sand, allowing for a faster and smoother ride.

In addition to the sandboard itself, riders also need to wear the right gear to protect themselves from the elements. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential to shield yourself from the intense heat and glare of the sun.

Closed-toe shoes are also crucial to protect your feet from the hot sand and any sharp objects that may be hidden in the dune.

Persons walking near a pair of sandboards on desert
Sandboards in the desert. Photo by Hala Ezzat on Pexels.com

How Similar is Sandboarding to Snowboarding?

Sandboarding and snowboarding share many similarities. Both sports involve sliding down a slope on a board. However, there are some key differences between the two.

The most significant difference between sandboarding and snowboarding is the terrain. Snowboarding is done on snow, which has lower friction, while sandboarding is done on sand dunes.

This means that the technique used to navigate the terrain is different. Sandboarding requires more balance and a smoother technique since the sand can be unpredictable.

Is There Anything a Snowboarder Needs to Know When Sandboarding?

So, if you’re an experienced snowboarder who wants to give sandboarding a try, there are a few things you should keep in mind. One essential point to consider is that sandboarding requires a different technique than snowboarding.

You’ll need to be much more delicate and fluid in your movements to navigate the sand dunes successfully. However, with practice, you’ll soon learn how to carve down the dunes with ease, feeling the rush of adrenaline as the sand flies beneath your board.

Additionally, sandboarding can be harder on your equipment than snowboarding. The sand can cause damage to the board and bindings, so it’s important to check them regularly.

Do not attempt to sandboard with a regular snowboard or other type of board that isn’t a sandboard with a laminate bottom, and always apply generous amount of wax before each ride.


Sandboards and sand sleds
Different styles of sand sleds (left) and a stand-up sandboard (right). Photo courtesy of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Choosing the Right Sandboard

When it comes to sandboarding, there are three main types of boards: terrain, carve, and sled. Each type is designed for specific conditions and preferences, so it’s important to consider where and how you’ll be riding.

Terrain Boards

Terrain boards are designed for riding on steep, sandy slopes. They typically have a twin-tip shape, which means that both ends of the board are symmetrical, allowing riders to ride in either direction. Terrain boards also tend to be shorter and wider than other types of sandboards, which makes them more maneuverable on steep terrain.

Carve Boards

Carve boards are designed for riding on flatter, smoother sand dunes. They have a longer, narrower shape than terrain boards, which makes them faster and more stable on flat surfaces.

Carve boards also tend to have a directional shape, which means that they’re meant to be ridden in one direction only.

Sandsleds

Sleds are a unique type of sandboard that’s designed for riding in a seated position.

They’re typically made from a hard plastic material and have a concave shape that allows riders to carve and turn in the sand, but they are also available as wooden boards with a laminate bottom, with hand brakes and foot pads rather than straps and bindings.

Sleds are a popular choice for kids and beginners, but they can also be used by more experienced riders.


Sandboards for Sale

Slip Face Sandboards Diamondback Board
Slip Face Sandboards’
Diamond Back Terrain Sandboard
– 9 ply maple veneer deck
– High pressure laminate base, high gloss
– Dakine adjustable foot straps
– Slip Face Sandboards multi-positionable foot pads
– Swallow tail design

Slip Face Sandboard Kestrel WingTail
Slip Face Sandboards’
Kestrel Wing 127
– 9 ply maple veneer deck
– Low friction base
– Dakine adjustable foot straps
– Slip Face Sandboards multi-positionable foot pads
– Swallow tail design


Tip Design

In addition to the type of board, stand-up sandboards also come with different designs when it comes to their size and tip shape.

The size of the board can affect how well it performs on different types of terrain.

Smaller boards are more maneuverable, making them a great choice for carving and quick turns. Larger boards are better for high-speed runs and riding on flat terrain.

The shape of the tip can also greatly impact the performance of the board.

Twin tips, as previously discussed, are suitable for riding in either direction and are a good choice for beginners and freestyle riders.

Square tips are great for speed, but may not be as maneuverable as other types of tips. Swallow tips, with their V-shaped tail, are ideal for quick turns and navigating around obstacles.

Twin Tips: Perfect for Tricks and Jumps

Twin tips are rounded on both edges, making them ideal for riding in either direction.

They are an excellent choice for beginners and freestyle riders who want to perform tricks and jumps.

With twin tips, riders can easily switch from riding forward to riding backward without any difficulty. However, it’s important to note that twin tips may not be as fast as other types of tips.

Twin Tips / Round Edges Sandboard

Square Tail: Designed for Speed

Square tails are flat and squared off at the end of the board, making them the go-to choice for speed enthusiasts.

They are designed for speed, making them an excellent choice for experienced riders who want to race down the dunes.

Riders can easily maneuver through the sand with square tips, but they may not be as maneuverable as other types of tips.

Square Tail Sandboard

Swallow Tail: A Combination of Speed and Maneuverability

Swallow tail have a V-shaped tip, making them great for quick turns and maneuvering around obstacles.

They are a good choice for intermediate riders who want a combination of speed and maneuverability.

With swallow tips, riders can easily navigate through twists and turns while still maintaining a good speed.

Swallow Tail Sandboard

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