Choosing a Drop
Beginner
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3863 riders can do it
Choosing a natural obstacle to jump from.
How do it
Before performing a jump, we need to decise what we’re going to jump from. Snow parks take out all the guesswork — the ramps are ready and runways are just the perfect length. In freeriding though, drops are not that simple.
1.
Pick a correct size. To get an idea of the clearance, stand on the edge of the drop and throw a snowball. It’s flight will tell you your trajectory, and it’s track will tell you about the quality of the snow.
2.
Check your take off spot. Make sure it has enough snow, so that you don’t catch a rock or tree.
3.
Mark the trajectory of your jump, your take off point and direction. Just use a stick to draw a line on the snow.
4.
Check your landing spot, it should be clear and level, with enough steepness to continue riding. Sometimes a small mount of snow can expose a sharp rock or stump... Obviously, it’s better to jump into soft, clear snow, you’ll have fewer problems riding away.
5.
Calculate your in‑run. Your speed before take off should be something you’re comfortable with. Preferably, your approach should be as straight as possible.
6.
Check your trajectory after landing, riding off ans breaking — there should be absolutely no trees, roots or rocks along the way.