A steering system for a snowboard includes two binding interface pods, one of which may be active and one of which may be passive. Rotation or tilting of a top plate of the active binding interface pod in response to rotation or tilting of the rider's steering foot causes counter-rotation of a steering fin under the rider's steering foot. The passive binding interface pod is responsive via a linkage between the active and passive binding interface pods to cause rotation of a steering fin under the rider's non-steering foot. Coordinated counter-rotation of the steering fins causes the board to turn in the direction of rotation of the rider's steering foot when the steering fins are unaligned. Optionally, both binding pods may be active in steering, i.e. enabling two footed steering.

A pivotable coupling assembly having lateral flexure and apparatuses utilizing the pivotable coupling assembly. The pivotable coupling assembly includes a link that is adjustably connected to a first member, such as a board, and a yoke that is connected to a second member, such as a base. The yoke is configured to pivotably receive the link, allowing the first member to pivot longitudinally relative to the second member. The link is fabricated from a material having sufficient stiffness to support the weight of a board and a rider, while also having sufficient flexure to allow the link to bend laterally when stressed. The pivotable coupling assembly thereby allows the first member to rotate or bend laterally, while still permitting longitudinal movement thereof. The bidirectional movement provided by the coupling assembly mimics the movement or control of a board, such as a snowboard, under normal conditions when snowboarding.

A snowshoe provides a way for outdoor enthusiasts to traverse the backcountry effectively and efficiently. The snowshoe allows the user to glide through the snow like a cross-country ski, but with the minimal footprint of a traditional snowshoe. The snowshoe includes a board and a binding mechanism that secures the user to the board, but allows for a pivoting motion. The pivoting motion allows the user to ascend steep terrain by performing a motion similar to cross-country skiing.

Board rotating mounts, a kit containing board rotating mount components, and methods of making and using board rotating mounts are described herein.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention would provide a rotatable footplate integrated with a corresponding bearing and well assembly that is imbedded into, screwed into, or otherwise, integrally a part of, a single-board sports board, such as a snowboard.

Board rotating mounts, a kit containing board rotating mount components, and methods of making and using board rotating mounts are described herein.

A Method and apparatus for reducing stress on the body (e.g., foot, ankle, hip, spine) of a snowboarder while sitting on a chairlift. The apparatus includes a boot binding assembly adapted for mounting on the top surface of a snowboard including a boot retention member hinged for movement between a closed position and an open position. For typical downhill snowboarding activity, a user will place the retention member in the closed position to orient the sole of the user's boot substantially parallel, i.e. against the snowboard top surface. For sitting on a chairlift, the user will place the retention member in the open position so as to allow the snowboard to pivot around the hinge and hang substantially vertically from the retention member thus avoiding stressful torques on the user's supporting limb.

Board rotating mounts, a kit containing board rotating mount components, and methods of making and using board rotating mounts are described herein.