Choosing the right snowboard can be done in 5 easy steps. First, consider your experience level and style of riding.
Second, determine the appropriate size of snowboard for your height and weight. Third, look at the different shapes and camber profiles of snowboards to match your riding preferences. Fourth, decide on the stiffness and flex of the snowboard based on your ability level and style. Lastly, consider your budget and make a decision that fits within it. Snowboarding is an exciting and active winter sport that brings a sense of freedom and exhilaration. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the sport, choosing the right snowboard is an important decision that can affect your performance, enjoyment, and safety on the slopes. With a plethora of options available, it can be daunting to navigate the market and determine which snowboard is the best fit for you. However, by following these 5 easy steps, you can confidently select a snowboard that will help you carve, jump, and glide with ease. Read on to learn how to choose the right snowboard for your needs.
Credit: www.rei.com
Step 1: Assess Your Skill Level
Snowboarding is a thrilling and exhilarating sport, but choosing the right snowboard can make your experience even better. So, how can you choose the perfect snowboard? In this blog post, we will be discussing the 5 easy steps to follow when choosing the right snowboard for you.
In this section, we will be addressing the first step, which is assessing your skill level.
Are You A Beginner, Intermediate Or Expert Snowboarder?
Your skill level is an important factor to consider when choosing the right snowboard. It is essential to have a snowboard that matches your ability level, so you can get the most out of your snowboarding experience.
- As a beginner, you should opt for a snowboard that is soft and flexible, with a shorter length and a rocker shape to help you initiate turns properly. It’s also important to consider a snowboard with a low price point, especially if you are not certain how often you will be snowboarding.
- Intermediate snowboarders will benefit from a snowboard that is a little stiffer and longer than a beginner’s board. The intermediate snowboard allows for better control and precision, making it easier to tackle various terrains.
- Expert snowboarders tend to prefer stiffer snowboards that provide more power and speed, which can handle high speeds and steep angles.
What Snowboarding Terrain Do You Prefer?
When choosing the right snowboard, the type of terrain you choose will play an important role. Always think about the kind of riding you’ll be doing to ensure that the snowboard you choose is appropriate for that terrain.
- If you enjoy cruising down groomed runs, you’ll want a different snowboard type than if you prefer riding in deep powder.
- If you love riding the terrain park, you will want a snowboard that is freestyle-oriented, allowing for tricks and jumps with ease.
What Type Of Snowboarding Do You Like To Do?
The type of snowboarding you prefer can alter the choice of snowboard you choose.
- Freeriding – snowboarding on open terrain, such as bowls and ungroomed runs, or searching for fresh powder. A freeride board has a typically directional shape, which excels at stability, powerful turns, and floats on snow.
- Freestyle – snowboarding in the park or performing tricks on the mountain. A freestyle board is nimble, lightweight, and often have twin tip.
- All-mountain – the most versatile snowboards considered to be “all-in-one” solution for multiple terrains. Providing a blend of freestyle and freeriding characteristics, they offer the best of both worlds.
Overall, choosing the right snowboard requires careful consideration of your skill level, terrain preference, and the type of snowboarding you intend to do. With these factors in mind, you can choose a snowboard that will maximize your enjoyment on the slopes.
Step 2: Choose The Right Board Shape
Directional Shape
If you’re an experienced rider who loves cruising, the directional board is definitely for you. The nose and tail of this type of snowboard are not identical, with the tail being narrower than the nose. This shape provides more stability while cruising and makes turning easier.
- Ideal for riding forward
- Better suited for groomed runs than for park riding
- Well-suited for freeriding
- Designed to handle higher speeds with better stability
- Requires less effort to make turns
Twin Shape
Twin snowboards are perfectly symmetrical, with an identical nose and tail. They’re perfect for park riding since they provide the same performance whether you’re riding forward or backward.
- Great for park riding
- Suited for freestyle maneuvers such as spinning and jumping
- Well-suited for switch riding
- Provides great balance while riding
- Makes it easier to land tricks without slipping sideways
Directional Twin Shape
The directional twin board shape is a combination of both the directional and twin shapes. It features a symmetrical shape between the bindings, while the nose and tail taper off in opposite directions.
- Ideal for all-mountain riding
- Suited for riders who like to ride the groomers and the backcountry
- Provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability
- Well-suited for riders who like a combination of park and freeriding
- Offers versatility for riders who want to explore all aspects of the mountain
Choosing the right snowboard shape is crucial for your riding performance. Consider your riding style, experience level, and preferred terrain when selecting your snowboard shape. Now that you understand the different snowboard shapes, you can confidently select the best one for your needs.
How to Choose a Snowboard & Snowboard Size
Step 3: Select The Correct Board Size
Choosing the correct size of snowboard is crucial if you want to have the best riding experience on the mountain. However, it is important to take into account a few factors such as your weight, height, and boot size to ensure the right snowboard size.
In this section, we will cover the necessary steps to select the correct board size.
Weight
When choosing a snowboard size, it is critical to consider your weight. Typically, heavier riders require longer and wider boards, while riders with lower weight can opt for a shorter and narrower board.
- If you weigh less than 120lbs, choose a snowboard size between 130 to 140cm.
- If you weigh between 120lbs and 150lbs, opt for a snowboard size between 140 to 145cm.
- If you weigh between 150lbs and 180lbs, select a snowboard size between 145 to 155cm.
- If you weigh between 180lbs and 210lbs, consider a snowboard size between 155 to 165cm.
- If you weigh more than 210lbs, choose a snowboard size between 160 to 180cm.
Height
Your height is another critical factor to consider when choosing the right snowboard size. A taller rider usually requires a longer board because a board that’s too small may be uncomfortable.
- If you’re less than 5’4″, choose a snowboard size between 129 to 140cm.
- If you’re between 5’4″ and 5’8″, opt for a snowboard size between 141 to 148cm.
- If you’re between 5’8″ and 6′, select a snowboard size between 149 to 160cm.
- If you’re taller than 6′, consider a snowboard size between 161 to 180cm.
Boot Size
Your boot size is critical to take into consideration when selecting the right snowboard size. Board width is the most important factor, which depends on the size of your boot. If you have large feet, you’ll want to choose a board with a wider waist width to avoid toe and heel drag.
- If your boot size is 11 or less, select a board with a waist width between 245 to 255mm.
- If your boot size is between 11 and 12, choose a board with a waist width between 255 to 265mm.
- If your boot size is 12 or larger, consider a board with a waist width of 265mm or more.
By considering your weight, height, and boot size, you can select the correct snowboard size that fits your needs and riding style. Remember that choosing the correct board size is essential to maximize your comfort and enjoyment while on the mountain.
Step 4: Decide On The Camber Profile
Camber
The camber profile refers to the shape of the snowboard when laid on a flat surface. It is most commonly used in traditional snowboards and it’s a convex shape. It has a center bend that raises the board and its contact points.
A camber board is perfect for those who wish to ride fast and make sharp turns.
- It offers more pop, precision, and edge control
- Better for carving and aggressive turns
- Provides more stability on hard snow
- Camber boards are not ideal for beginners
Rocker
A rocker profile, also known as “reverse camber,” has a concave shape in the middle and curved upward at the tip and tail. It has a looser feel and is great for those who want to ride in deeper snow.
- It offers more float in powder
- Provides a catch-free ride
- Easy to maneuver and initiate turns
- Suitable for beginners to advanced riders
- Not great for carving and hard snow conditions
Flat Profile
A flat profile is just that, flat with no profile. It is a mix of both camber and rocker profiles, providing the best of both worlds.
- It offers a stable and predictable ride
- Easy to control
- Perfect for freestyle riding
- Great for all levels of riders
- Does not perform well in powder
Remember that choosing the right camber profile is crucial for a successful snowboarding experience. Consider your skill level, riding style, and the terrain you will be riding on to make the best decision.
Step 5: Consider Your Budget
Choosing The Right Snowboard In 5 Easy Steps
Congratulations on deciding to buy a snowboard! Purchasing the ideal one for your needs is crucial, and considering your budget is an important part of the process. Here’s a brief guide to help you figure out how much you need to spend on your snowboard.
New Versus Used
One of the most significant dilemmas for beginner snowboarders is whether to get a new or used snowboard.
Buying A New Snowboard:
- It has not been previously used or damaged, and comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
- It’s custom-sized to your requirements.
- It provides a high level of performance and can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
- It can be more expensive than a used snowboard.
Buying A Used Snowboard:
- It can be significantly cheaper compared to a new snowboard
- It could have certain features that may no longer be available in new snowboards
- It may have some wear and tear, which could require repairs or maintenance
- It may not come with a warranty
Season End Sales
A lot of snowboarders opt to buy a new snowboard during season end sales. These sales happen at the end of a particular season when most stores aim to clear out their inventory.
- You can get the latest models of snowboards at discounted prices.
- You can invest in high-performance boards without breaking the bank.
- You may be able to access freebies, such as bindings, boots, or jackets.
- Availability may be limited, and you may not get the sizes or choices you want.
Demo Rentals
Demo rentals allow you to try out a snowboard before buying it.
- It’s a great way to test the snowboard’s fit, style, and features before making a purchase.
- You can try out various models to determine what suits your snowboarding style and level.
- It is relatively cost-effective compared to buying outright.
- Demo models might not be a reflection of what you need for the long term.
Choosing a snowboard that suits your budget is essential to having an enjoyable snowboarding experience. Take the time to evaluate your options and choose what’s best for you before making your purchase. Happy shredding!
Conclusion
After following these 5 essential steps to choosing the right snowboard, you should feel confident about your final decision. By evaluating your riding style, ability level, budget, and the different types of snowboards available on the market, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect snowboard for your winter adventures.
Remember that investing in a quality snowboard that suits your needs and preferences is a crucial factor for enhancing your performance and enjoying your time on the mountain. Don’t be afraid to try out different boards and seek advice from experienced riders before making your final purchase.
With the right snowboard under your feet, you can elevate your snowboarding skills and make unforgettable memories on the slopes. Happy shredding!
