The Ultimate Guide to the Best Rated Snowboarding Gear.
Winter is an incredibly exciting season for those passionate about snowboarding. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, having the best quality gear makes all the difference when you’re on the slopes. The exhilarating feeling of gliding through fresh powder or navigating challenging terrain is hard to beat, but having the right equipment is essential for enjoying a successful, safe and rewarding snowboarding season.
The market is full of options when it comes to snowboarding gear, so knowing which gear to invest in can be far from straightforward. From snowboards and boots to bindings and protective gear, there’s a variety of options available and making the right choice is critical.
To help you make an informed choice when it comes to buying the best equipment, we’ve put together an essential guide to the best rated snowboarding gear, sharing our expert advice so that you can have the best time snowboarding this winter.
Snowboards
A snowboard is a must-have snowboarding essential and is perhaps the single most important piece of gear you can purchase. As such, it’s important to take your time when selecting a board, so that you make the best choice for your body weight, ability level and riding style.
Choosing the right snowboard size is key, as the wrong size and shape can make life difficult and can also be dangerous. Depending on your body weight and ability level, a good starting point is sometimes to select a snowboard with a running length that is somewhere between your chin and nose.
All-mountain boards are a great option for all-round riding, and are often the go-to choice for those just starting out, as they are versatile and can be used in a range of conditions.
For more experienced riders, Freeride boards offer more of a challenge and are better suited to experienced snowboarders that are looking to mob the mountain.
If you’re looking to get more into the park, then a Freestyle board might be more suitable, as they are better suited to tricks and jumps, as well as jibbing and drops.
Whichever board you go for, make sure you do your research, as having the right board can make or break your snowboarding experience.
Snowboarding Boots
Choosing the right snowboarding boots is just as important as choosing the right board, as having a good fit, comfort and support are all essential. Snowboarding boots should feel snug, but comfortable and should match the design of the bindings.
If you’re a beginner, look for a good all-mountain boot as these are designed for a range of riding functions, meaning you’re not limited to just one type of terrain. Freestyle riders should look for booted designed for park skills, as these often provide a good level of flexibility and cushioning.
Snowboarding Bindings
The right bindings are crucial if you’re looking to up your snowboarding game, as selecting the wrong binding can be a frustrating and dangerous mistake. The right bindings should match your preferred riding style and should also be compatible with your boots and board. Choosing the right size is important, as bindings that are too large could leave you with control problems and an inability to transfer energy properly, whilst bindings that are too small could make it hard to transfer your energy and maintain control, and could also be more prone to slippage.
For all-mountain riders, look for binding that offer a good combination of long-term comfort and durability. Freeride bindings should be stiffer and should also provide stability and reliability, because often you’ll be navigating difficult terrain and will require the confidence to take on challenging conditions.
Finally, for park riders, look for lighter and typically more adjustable options that are designed to provide the freestyle flexibility that’s needed to excel in the park.
Protective Gear
Protective gear is essential, regardless of your experience level. Wearing the right protective gear not only improves your safety, it can also allow you to stay on the slopes longer and reduce the risk of painful and potentially damaging injuries.
When it comes to protective gear, make sure you invest in a good helmet, as this will provide your head with the level of protection it needs against impacts. Be sure to find one that fits comfortably and securely and that allows for the natural movement of your head.
Gloves are also essential, so it’s important to look for gloves that are waterproof and offer great grip, whilst making sure they’re lightweight and comfortable too.
Finally, make sure you’re well protected from the colder conditions with a good quality snowboarding jacket and pants. Skiing specific outerwear is always the best option, as these will offer better protection and more comfort than regular clothing. Look for insulation technology, adjustable features and waterproof fabric, as well as features such as vents and pockets.
Conclusion
Snowboarding is an amazing sport, but if you’re not equipped with the right gear, this can significantly reduce both your performance and your levels of enjoyment. That’s why it’s essential to take the time to choose the right snowboarding equipment, exploring the market to find the best rated snowboarding gear that’s suitable for your style, ability and budget.
From snowboards and boots to bindings and protective gear, the right investments can make all the difference when it comes to having a successful, safe and rewarding snowboarding season. So, ensure you’re armed with the best rated snowboarding gear, and get set for an epic winter on the slopes.
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