Warm Weather Snowboarding Gear: The Essentials.
Snowboarding is an exciting and rewarding sport, no matter the season. But if you plan to hit the slopes in summer, you’ll need the right gear. Luckily, there’s no shortage of warm weather snowboarding gear out there, just waiting for you to take it for a spin.
So what do you need for a successful and enjoyable warm weather snowboarding session? Here are the essential items you should make sure you have with you:
Clothing
The most important piece of gear you’ll need for snowboarding in warm weather is a good set of clothing. Synthetic fabrics work best for managing temperature and moisture, so look for lightweight technical layers like base layers and mid-layers that incorporate materials like PolyPro or Capilene.
In addition to keeping you cool, these clothes will also protect against frostbite, which is a real risk if you’re spending extended periods of time on the mountain.
Speaking of protection, you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing a helmet. Although the temperature might be warm, things can still get dangerous when flying down the mountain.
Gloves
No matter what the temperature is, you’ll need a pair of gloves to protect your hands from getting cold or wet. Look for gloves that are designed for winter sports and tend to be waterproof, warm and wind-resistant.
You should also aim for gloves that have some grip to help you maintain control of your snowboard.
Boots
Your snowboard boots are essential for providing comfort, support and response. When choosing your boots for warmer weather, opt for boots that have good ventilation, as this will help to keep your feet cool.
Soft-flexing boots are best for warmer conditions, as you won’t be dealing with the same level of resistance from the snow. Look for boots with a mid-stiff flex rating to give you the right balance between comfort and control.
Bindings
The bindings are the link between your snowboard and boots and are important as they are what will transfer the energy from your feet to your board. Your bindings should steer you in the right direction and put you in control of your snowboard.
Make sure your bindings are comfortable, supportive and flexible enough to move with your feet. Opt for bindings that have a forward flex rating of 6 or 7 if you plan on taking on some steeper terrain.
Snowboard
Finally, you’ll need a snowboard that’s primed for taking on the warmer temperatures. There are several options when it comes to choosing a board for warmer conditions.
Choose a board with a rocker profile, as this will help you avoid catching an edge as this can be more common in slippery, icy conditions.
You should also look for a board with a shorter length, as this will improve agility and manageability, enabling you to navigate tight turns.
Conclusion
There you have it – the essential pieces of gear that you’ll need for a successful and comfortable day snowboarding in warmer conditions. Now all you have to do is get out there, hit the slopes and make the most of the summer weather.
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