This should've been thrown up a little bit earlier, but I didn't think of writing the column 'til I was put on the spot to this week.  This article is all about how you can get a snowboard fix when there isn't any snow around. Here's a blurb:

1) Astroturf.

Scrappy, but it does the trick for a fun couple of hours in your backyard and get you that quick fix you’re jonesin’ for. Using plywood, create a down ramp and run up to whatever feature it is you’re hitting.  It’s important to put the Astroturf on top of plywood because it will wrinkle if placed directly onto the ground.  Also, put a tarp or two underneath the plywood if you care at all about your lawn.  On top of the turf, apply powdered detergent and water to make your board slide.  Make sure your run-up and jump are well aligned with the rail, because you’re not going to want to try making any sharp turns on that thing.

2) Dry Slopes.

I haven’t heard of many in the U.S., aside from indoor foam pit jump at the Woodward at Copper snowboard camp.  Dry slope technologies, developed by companies like Skitrax, make artificial snow that remains stable year round. Skitrax has built full runs, moguls and terrain parks in over 12 countries throughout Europe that can be shredded during every season of the year. I can’t imagine the falls being very forgiving sans snow, but I guess it can’t be much worse than our hard-packed or icy East Coast landings.

Read the full article HERE!