Tips for Getting Off a Ski Chair Lift on a Snowboard

Getting off a ski chair lift while using a snowboard is a challenge faced by every beginner snowboarder. While it can be challenging, every beginning snowboarder can learn this skill. These are the tips I give beginning snowboarders when they are learning how to get off the ski chairlift with a snowboard.

Use a stomp pad. Attach a large spikey stomp pad such as the DaKine Spike Stomp Pad to your snowboard. It doesn't win any cool graphics awards but it will give a firm grip for your back foot. If the pad is placed near the rear snowboard binding, you can use the rear binding as a support too.

Have your snowboard setup for success. Have the snowboard bindings spaced far enough apart. A wide natural flexed stance will be more stable than a narrow one.

Practice getting off on a beginner chair lift. They'll have beginner snowboarder friendly exit ramps. Detachable chair lifts will be easier to practice on than a fixed grip lift. Detachable chair lifts will slow down at the top, fixed grips will not.

Sit on the easy side of the chairlift. If you are regular stance, sit on the right side of the chair. If you are goofy stance, sit on the left side of the chair. You'll have a clear path on your exit at the top.

Practice on an uncrowded chairlift. You'll gain more confidence in your chair lift exit skills. If there are other people on the chair, especially skiers and children, find out their exit strategy so they don't cut you off. Tell them that you are gliding off straight and ask them not to turn in front of you. Most skiers will understand.

Be prepared at the top of the lift. Have your snowboard, shoulder, and your front hip aimed straight down the exit ramp. Grab the back of the chair if necessary so you can get lined up and feel safe.

Use a great exit sequence. Place your snowboard on the snow. Immediately place your back foot completely on the snowboard against the back binding. Stand up and push away from the front of the chair with your back hand. Look at eye-level straight ahead. Do not look down. Keep your hip and front of shoulder aimed down the ramp.

Have a stacked athletic stance when exiting. Have your ankles, knees, and shoulders flexed when standing on your snowboard. Keep equal weight on both feet with your butt centered between your feet. Many people try to exit with a straight locked front ankle and let their weight rest entirely on their back foot. By flexing the front ankle and pushing away from the chair, you'll keep your weight centered and not 'in the back seat'.

Relax. Don't overthink this. Enjoy the chair lift ride and the gorgeous views.

More beginner snowboarding tips:
Tips for First Time Snowboarders
How to Tie Snowboard Boots
Complete Beginners Guide to Snowboarding

Source:
Over eight seasons experience teaching beginner snowboarders.
American Association of Snowboard Instructors - Certified Snowboard Instructor