The Best Snowboarding Gear for Teens.
Snowboarding is one of the most exhilarating extreme sports around and one of the fastest growing sports for teens. As a teenager, it’s easy to get swept up in the hype, especially when you’re surrounded by friends who’ve just gotten the latest and greatest snowboarding gear. But when it comes to choosing the best gear for a teen snowboarder, it’s important to look beyond style and go for quality and functionality. That said, here are the best pieces of snowboard gear for teens.
Goggles
Goggles are an essential piece of snowboarding gear for teens for a couple of reasons. Not only will a pair of quality goggles protect your eyes from the elements, such as snow, wind, sun, and debris, they also help you see better. With that in mind, it’s important to choose goggles with a good lens technology; look for options with anti-fog and polarized lens to improve clarity, depth perception, and visibility. Additionally, the type of lens you choose—dark, light, etc.—will depend on the weather you’ll be snowboarding in most often.
Snowboard
Before purchasing a snowboard, you’ll want to consider your ability level, terrain preference, budget, and style. Beginner-level boards are often more affordable and better-suited to those just starting out. Freestyle boards, on the other hand, have softer flex and better maneuverability for riding rails and doing other tricks. If you plan to primarily do freestyle tricks, it might be worth investing in a twin-tip board with a symmetrical design so you can ride it both ways.
Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots are also an important aspect of your snowboarding setup; these will help provide good power transfer, leverage, and control when riding. Generally speaking, the more expensive boots tend to provide better comfort, longevity, and performance. This is because they usually have more cushioned and higher-grade materials, as well as superior lacing systems. Make sure you try on multiple pairs to find the right size and style before committing.
Snowboard Bindings
Snowboard bindings secure your feet to your board and allow you to move and manipulate it. There are a variety of bindings to choose from, but in general, straps and cap straps are the best option for teens. Straps provide more cushioning and better shock absorption than the more rigid bindings, which is ideal for those who are still learning the sport. If you plan to do basic jumps and tricks, then cap-strap bindings are a good choice; these are lighter and more flexible, allowing for better freedom of movement.
Protective Gear
When hitting the slopes, it’s also important to always wear protective gear. This includes a helmet, wrist guards, and elbow and knee pads to protect you in case of an accident or fall. Make sure whatever you buy meets ASTM standards and fits snugly and comfortably. It’s also a good idea to dress in layers to allow for greater flexibility in temperature and keep warm.
Snowboarding is an adrenaline-filled sport with a lot of exciting elements. While there’s much you can do with just the basics, high-quality gear will help elevate your skills and make the experience even more enjoyable. With the right knowledge and understanding, you’re sure to find the best snowboarding gear for teens for a more enjoyable ride.
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