.

Snowboarding Essentials for Teens – Gear Up For Epic Shreds!.

When it comes to snowboarding, having the right gear is key. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced master of the mountain, having the right gear will make your experience safer, smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re a teen snowboarder, you’ll want to take a look at what it takes to make your time on the slopes awesome. This guide will outline some of the essential snowboarding gear you’ll need to have an epic time on the slopes, from boots to helmets and beyond.

Snowboard
The first and most obvious piece of snowboarding gear you’ll need is a snowboard. When selecting a snowboard, it’s important to pay attention to a few key features. First, consider the size of the board. You’ll want to pick a board that is the right size for your height, weight, and type of riding you’ll be doing. If you’re a beginner, you’ll probably want a slightly wider board for extra stability. For more advanced riders, a slimmer board may be the way to go.

You’ll also want to consider the shape and flex of the board. A stiffer board will be better for higher speeds, while a softer board will be better for more technical tricks. If you’re unsure, one of the best ways to get a sense of a board’s flex is to press your thumb into the middle of the board and see how much resistance you get.

Finally, make sure you pay attention to the camber profile of the board. This refers to the shape of the board when it’s unloaded. A camber Profile defines how aggressive of a ride the board provides, and will largely depend on your riding style. In general, a beginner may benefit from a rocker or hybrid camber board, while an advanced rider might prefer the traditional camber.

Boots
The boots you choose for your snowboarding adventures are almost as important as your snowboard. Boots should be comfortable and secure enough to provide stability and support, while allowing the needed movement for tricks and turns. When selecting boots, you’ll want to look at both the padding and lacing systems, as well as the soles.

Boots with thicker padding such as low and medium flex boots, can provide more comfort and insulation, and are great for beginners. If you’re an advanced rider and want better response from your board, you may want to look for a stiffer, higher flex boot.

As for the lacing system, you’ll generally want to look for one that is both secure and easy to adjust on the fly. The most common lacing systems for snowboarding boots are boa, speed lacing and traditional lacing, which offer a range of tightness and support.

Finally, make sure you look for a boot with a rugged sole. A good sole should have plenty of grip, be waterproof, and provide ample cushioning. This is especially important if you’ll be hiking in your boots, as you’ll need enough traction to navigate un-groomed terrain and plenty of cushioning to make the hikes more comfortable.

Bindings
The next piece of snowboarding equipment you’ll need is a set of bindings. Bindings hold your boots to the board and provide the connection between you and your board. When selecting bindings, make sure you choose a size that is compatible with your boots. Additionally, choose a binding that is comfortable and supportive, as you’ll want them to remain secure throughout your ride. You’ll want to look for bindings that offer a secure toe-strap, as well as a heel-lock to ensure your boots remain locked in place.

If you’re planning on riding in powder, it may also be beneficial to opt for bindings with a higher back-lean, as this can provide extra stability and control in deep snow. Additionally, many bindings today come with adjustable straps and other features to make them more user-friendly and customizable.

Outerwear
When it comes to snowboarding, one of the most important items you can have is good outerwear. A good snowboarding outfit will keep you both warm and dry, while also allowing you to move freely. When picking out snowboarding apparel, make sure you look for breathable, waterproof materials like Gore-Tex or similar. Also, look for clothing that is both insulated and lightweight, as this is important for body temperature regulation. When choosing pants, make sure you look for pants that are long enough to protect your feet from the snow, but not so long that they get in the way of your riding.

When it comes to layering, it’s best to start with a base layer of synthetic materials to keep you dry. Additionally, you may want to add a mid-layer of wool or fleece to keep you warm and insulated, and a shell layer that should provide adequate waterproofing and wind protection. Make sure you always test your clothes to make sure they can handle the elements before you hit the slopes.

Helmets
Of course, one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for any sport is a helmet. All teen snowboarders should wear a properly fitted helmet at all times on the slopes. When choosing a helmet, make sure it fits snug but not too tight. It should also cover your forehead protective when you lean or crouch. The unit should be certified by the American Society of Testing and Materials, and should be rated for both snow and ski use.

In terms of style, helmets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from low-profile helmets to full-face models. Generally, low-profile helmets are better for ease of movement and better vision on the slopes, while full-face helmets offer more coverage and protection.

Goggles
Along with your helmet, you’ll also want a pair of ski or snowboard goggles. Goggles protect your eyes from the sun and wind, while offering better visibility on the slopes. When selecting goggles, make sure the lenses are made of a high-quality optically correct material that is designed to protect your eyes from the sun and wind. The lenses should be tinted, polarized and shatter-resistant, to offer the best protection. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure the frame fits your face properly and securely, and look for a model that has good ventilation to prevent fogging.

Gloves
Finally, you’ll need a pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and protect them from the elements. When selecting gloves, you’ll want to look for models that are waterproof, durable and well insulated. You’ll also want to look for features such as wicking liners and touchscreen compatible tips, which can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Now that you know the basics of snowboarding gear for teens, it’s time to hit the slopes and shred! Take the time to find the gear that’s right for you, and you’ll be well on your way to having an awesome time on the mountain.

Image Credit: Pexels