Sand surfing, also known as sandboarding or duneboarding, is an outdoor activity that involves sliding down sand dunes on a specialized board similar to a snowboard or surfboard. Participants ride down large, steep sand dunes in dry, desert environments, using a sandboard and protective gear such as a helmet and elbow and knee pads. Sand surfing can be physically demanding and may involve some falls, so it is important to take proper precautions and respect the natural environment while participating in this activity. Sand surfing is a popular activity offered by many desert safari tours, and is a great way for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the unique landscape of the desert.
How to do SandBoarding?
- Gather the necessary equipment: You’ll need a sandboard, protective gear (such as a helmet and elbow and knee pads), and comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Find a suitable location: Look for large, steep sand dunes in a dry, desert environment. Many desert safari tours offer sand surfing as an activity and can provide you with a sandboard and safety equipment.
- Prepare the sandboard: Before you start riding, you’ll need to prepare the sandboard by waxing the surface to help you glide smoothly down the dunes.
- Position yourself on the sandboard: Stand on the sandboard with your feet shoulder-width apart and slightly bent. Hold the edges of the sandboard with your hands and keep your balance by leaning forward slightly.
- Start sliding: To start sliding, push off with your back foot and gently shift your weight forward as you ride down the dune. Use your hands to help balance and steer the sandboard.
- Practice proper technique: To turn or change direction, shift your weight to one side or the other and use your hands to steer the sandboard. You can also use your feet to pivot or carve as you ride.
- Stay safe: Sand surfing can be physically demanding and may involve some falls, so it’s important to wear protective gear and follow any safety guidelines provided by your tour operator or the location where you are riding.
- Respect the environment: Be mindful of the natural environment and follow any rules or guidelines in place to protect the dunes and the wildlife that call them home.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of sand surfing and having a fun and exciting experience in the desert.
SandBoarding OR SnowBoarding?
Are you yet confused with sandboarding or snowboarding? They might sound the same to you still the difference lies; is identical to the difference between snow and sand. This availability of sand is the reason behind the popularity of sandboarding in the deserts as well as near the beaches. Sandboarding has the link with sand.
Custom sandboards are the trending equipment for sandboarding. However, you may also come across sledges, skateboards, or surfboards commonly. Unlike snowboarding, you may enjoy this sport for the whole year. Its enjoyment just does not have its confinement to seasonal skiing and wintery slopes.
History Sandboarding
Snowboarding came into being in the 19th- 20th century. Yet, the history of sandboarding can be traced back to the 1st century mainly because of the populations residing in the deserted places. As a result, you cannot trace back the originator of the sport.
Common perception lies about the creation of this game by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. Hieroglyphics gives a clear demonstration on pottery or wood pieces, of this same idea of the people riding down in the deserts on the dunes. Also, you may find its origination in the areas; Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Brazil, and Santa Catrina.
Not to forget that sandboarding did not gain much popularity because of the availability of dunes all the time and no safety measures like snowboarding.
Does it have more mainstream in comparison to your thoughts?
Despite counting it in the less mainstream, sandboarding got a considerable and loyal following. It affected society too. There are many parks around the world which offer this sport. Count in the Sand Master Park (Florence, Oregan), Cerro Negro in Nicaragua (the active volcano), and Hirschau in Germany. You will be amazed to know that Germany has the biggest support for this sport. It had the Sandboarding World Championship. It is not the ordinary one but counted as Europe’s largest dune.
Much shine to the sandboarding came through pop culture. Video games have a leading role in it. Any game featuring the scene of desert any sort of boarding will be present. Can you recall any of its recent examples?
The Legend of Zelda (Breath of the Wild) displayed its main character equipped with the shield, using it for sliding in the desert, either with sand seal or gravity. It showed the idea of fast travelling in comparison to the feet.
However, many people agree with adding Sandboarding to the Olympics Sports just like snowboarding. Many argue that despite sandboarding being older, snowboarding got its honour of addition and recognition in Olympics Sports first. So much stress is laid for adding in this international sports event so it can have the attention of new borders and create its awareness among people.
Final Verdict
To sum up, in a few words, Sand boarding is a bit dangerous yet fun-filled activity that is not just part of deserts. Next time you plan for a beach trip, you can spice it up with the Sand surfing. What real fun to enjoy winter like thrilling sports (snowboarding) in summer even?
Wanna enjoy sand boarding? Check out the best desert safari tour which includes the sand surfing and much more.
