Snowboarders and skiers can now track their mountain activities without the need for expensive smartwatches. Instead, several free smartphone apps provide detailed insights into performance while enjoying the slopes. After more than two decades of snowboarding experience, I have found three standout applications that effectively capture key metrics such as location, elevation, speed, and number of runs.
1. Strava: The Versatile Tracker
Strava is widely recognized as a top choice for tracking various outdoor activities, including skiing and snowboarding. The app allows users to monitor total vertical feet, distance, top speed, average speed, number of runs, elapsed time, and elevation—all without requiring the subscription to Strava Premium, priced at $79.99 annually.
After a day on the mountain, users can review a detailed map of their runs and access an interactive speed chart. This feature highlights the exact moment they achieved their fastest speed, making it a valuable tool for both casual riders and competitive athletes.
2. Slopes: Comprehensive Insights
Another excellent option is the Slopes app, which also offers both a free version and a premium subscription available for $34.99 per year. The free version provides an impressive array of metrics, surpassing even those offered by Strava.
Users benefit from insights into their tallest and longest runs, as well as a breakdown of ride time, lift time, and idle time. The app includes an interactive post-ride map and allows users to enhance their reports with photos and friend tags, encouraging healthy competition among peers.
3. Ski Tracks: Simple and Effective
Lastly, the Ski Tracks app delivers a similarly comprehensive set of features, including free access to metrics such as speed, distance, vertical drop, slope steepness, altitude, and riding time. For those seeking additional functionalities, premium features are available for $49.99 annually.
The free version remains robust, providing valuable insights for snowboarders and skiers alike.
All three applications stand out for their accuracy and compatibility with both Android and iOS devices. Significantly, they do not drain smartphone batteries excessively, even in cold weather conditions, making them reliable companions on the slopes.
As the winter season approaches, these free tracking apps can enhance your snowboarding experience by providing detailed performance feedback. Whether you are a seasoned rider or just starting, these tools can help you make the most out of your time on the mountain.
If you have a favorite free ski or snowboarding app that hasn’t been mentioned, feel free to share your recommendations. Engaging with fellow enthusiasts can lead to discovering even more great tools for tracking performance and enjoying the sport.
