SLEDsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Group riding requires clear communication, and knowing how to use hand signals is the best way to get a message to other riders. Know the meaning of these hand signals:

Stop: By extending your left arm straight up in the air with your palm open, you’re indicating that you’re stopping.

Slow Down: To indicate to other riders that you’re slowing down, extend your left arm out and angle it slightly downwards, pivoting it up and down (it should look like you’re petting a dog on the head).

Left Turn: By extending your left arm straight out so that it’s parallel to the ground, you’ll indicate to other riders that you’re turning left.

Right Turn: By extending your left arm outwards, creating a 90-degree angle and leaving your palm open, you’ll indicate that you’re turning right.

Oncoming Traffic: If there are other trail users approaching, pat the top of your head with an open palm to let riders behind you know that traffic is about to roll through.

Traffic Behind: If traffic is approaching your group from behind, you can let the other riders know by pointing behind your machine, keeping your fist closed and pointing with your thumb.

Hazard Ahead: To alert other riders to an obstacle or hazard ahead on the trail, extend your left arm straight out in front of you and with a closed fist, point as obviously as possible to the location of the hazard.