Read the text about sandboarding.

Sandboarding is similar to other board sports, such as surfing and snowboarding. Like a snowboard, the sandboard has straps that hold the boarder’s feet in place and a slick plastic coating on the bottom. To prepare for a run, sandboarders apply slippery wax to the bottom of the boards and strap in. From the top of a dune, sandboarders glide down, making tracks in the sand. Because sandboarders do not have to follow twisting mountain trails, they can go straight down a slope and keep picking up speed. But this increase in speed comes with a price: sand feels harder than water or snow when a person falls.

It takes hours of practice to learn how to balance and move on the uneven sand. Even the walk back up to the top can be difficult. As sandboarders trudge up the sandy hill, their feet sink into the sand with each step. So, falling on the way back up is just as likely as a stumble on the way down.

When practising this sport, it is important to have the necessary protective gear. Sandboarders must protect their skin by using sunscreen and by wearing long clothing. It is also necessary to have goggles or sunglasses. Protective eyewear shields the sandboarder’s eyes from the bright sun and sparkling sand. Even with the proper gear, the sun and heat can be intense. So, it is imperative for sandboarders who are spending a lot of time on the dunes to drink enough water. Despite its challenges, sandboarding offers high-speed thrills in beautiful surroundings.