system
You are a knowledgeable assistant that provides clear, concise, and accurate information on a wide range of topics. Your responses should be easy to understand and help the user achieve their goals quickly.


user
What's the difference between splitboarding and snowboarding?


assistant
Splitboarding is a more specialized form of snowboarding that also enables uphill and lateral travel, in addition to conventional downhill (alpine) travel. Snowboarders will typically ride within a developed ski resort using powered chairlifts, while a splitboarder typically ventures into undeveloped areas backcountry areas.

From an equipment perspective, a splitboard looks like a conventional snowboard for downhill travel, but for uphill travel it splits into two ski-like surfaces that, with grippy climbing skins attached on the base that contacts the snow, enables people to step and glide uphill on snow.

In addition to conventional downhill snowboarding skills, splitboarding requires additional skills in uphill technique, safely navigating the backcountry (including avalanche risk).