Sandboarding: the Sport of Surfing Down Sand Dunes

Last Updated on January 23, 2023

Also known as sand surfing or sand sledding, sandboarding is an exciting and thrilling extreme sport that involves gliding down sand dunes on a specially designed board or sled.

Sand surfing is a popular activity in desert and coastal destinations around the world, and attracts both thrill-seekers and casual enthusiasts alike. The desert oasis of Huacachina in Peru is one of the most popular sandboarding destinations, but the sport is practiced extensively in Morocco, Egypt, the Middle East, Australia, and the US.

Sandboarding has gained popularity in the United States in recent years as an exciting and accessible extreme sport.

With a variety of sandy destinations across the country, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, Sand Master Park in Florence and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, there are plenty of opportunities for riders to hit the dunes and experience the thrill of gliding down the slopes.

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What is Sandboarding

Sandboarding has its roots in snowboarding and surfing, and shares many of the same techniques and principles. However, it requires a unique set of skills and techniques due to the different properties of sand compared to snow or water.

One of the biggest differences between sand surfing and other board sports is the way that the sand behaves. Sand is much softer and more forgiving than snow or concrete, which means that falls and spills are less likely to result in injury. However, sand is also much less stable than these other surfaces, which means that it can be more challenging to maintain balance and control.

To get started with sand surfing, you will need to find a suitable location with sand dunes that are steep enough to ride down. These dunes can be found in a variety of landscapes, including deserts, beaches, and sand plains. Some of the most popular sandboarding destinations include Peru’s Huacachina Oasis, the Namib Desert in Namibia, and the sand dunes of the American Southwest.

Once you have found a suitable location, you will need to choose the right equipment. There are several different types of sandboards and sand sleds available, each with its own unique features and benefits. The type of board or sled that you choose will depend on your level of experience, as well as the type of terrain you will be riding on.

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Equipment

Sandboards are similar to snowboards and are designed for riders who want to perform tricks and stunts. They come in a range of sizes and shapes, and are typically made from a combination of wood, foam, and plastic. Sand sleds, on the other hand, are designed for riders who want a more relaxed and leisurely ride. They are larger and more stable than sandboards, and are often made from plastic or metal.

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Jump Sandboard

Kestrel Wing 127 Carving Sandboard

Diamond Back Terrain Sandboard

Sand Storm Youth Terrain Sandboard

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Sand wax is a product that is specifically designed for use on sandboards and sand sleds. It is used to provide traction and grip on the surface of the board, which is essential for maintaining control and balance while riding.

Without sand wax, it can be difficult to get a good grip on the board, which can make it difficult to turn, carve, or stop. This can be especially challenging in dry, sandy conditions, where the surface of the board can become slippery and hard to control.

Before hitting the dunes, it is important to take some time to practice and get a feel for your equipment. Start by riding slowly and gradually increasing your speed as you gain confidence. It is also a good idea to wear protective gear, such as a helmet, sand-proof goggles, elbow and knee pads, and gloves.

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How to Sandboard

Once you have mastered the basics of sand surfing, there are a variety of sandboarding tricks and techniques that you can try. These are the same you would do when snowboarding and include carving, jumping, and sliding.

Carving consists in turning and carving your way down the dune, while jumping involves launching yourself off of the top of the dune and performing flips and spins in the air.

Sliding involves using your board or sled to slide across the surface of the dune, either by using your weight to shift your balance or by using your feet to push off of the ground.

In addition to these basic techniques, there are also a variety of specialized sandboard tricks that you can learn, such as 360s, 540s, and 720s. These tricks involve spinning multiple times in the air before landing, and require a high level of skill and control.

Overall, sandboarding is a fun and exciting sport that offers something for riders of all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, there is always something new to learn and explore. So why not grab your board or sled and hit the dunes today?

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Sandboarding Locations Worldwide

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