The Best Freeride Snowboarding Equipment Reviewed
Winter is here, and with it comes the quest for the best freeride snowboarding equipment. It is important that you make sure you have the right gear to make full use of your experience and make sure you get the best out of your time on the slopes. We will walk you through the best snowboarding gear for the freeride enthusiast, so that you can make sure you have the ultimate setup for fun and performance.
Snowboards
The most important piece of snowboarding equipment for a freerider is the board itself. Freeriding demands a board that is capable of taking on powder, jumps and tight tree runs without missing a beat. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent boards out there that have been specifically designed for freeriding.
Freeride boards will usually have stiffer flex patterns and a more directional shape to give you the best performance on challenging terrain. Hybrids are also common, such as with Burton’s Solution and Ride Berzerker boards, which combine the best of both freeride performance with an all-mountain construction to handle quick changes in terrain.
Bindings
Every board needs a decent set of bindings to keep you securely connected. Freeride needs a different set of demand from bindings than all-mountain or park riding. Your choice depends on what type of terrain you are planning to ride and how often you will be changing the bindings to fit the board.
For an all-round freeride setup, look for high back bindings with a stiff flex and plenty of cushioning. The Burton Diode binding is a good option here, designed specifically for freeriding with a supportive highback and comfortable EVA foam base. The higher your bindings, the more support they will offer and the better your performance will be.
Boots
A good set of boots will be the difference between a comfortable and responsive ride, and an uncomfortable slog. Freeride-specific boots are designed to be lightweight and responsive while also having enough support to handle tougher terrain.
Look for a stiff-flex boot with plenty of cushioning and support to help you stay comfortable as you make your way through powder, jumps and icy slopes. The Burton Ruler boot is a good option, with a mid-stiff flex and lightly cushioned liner for comfort.
Clothing
Now, for the finishing touches. Good snowboarding clothing can look after you against the elements and keep you warm and dry all day. There are plenty of good brands out there for both fundamentals such as insulation, and for style-specific pieces.
For a good all-round freeride setup, look for a waterproof and breathable shell with comfortable insulation underneath and plenty of pockets to carry snacks, sunscreen and any extra gear. Burton’s Lithe pants and Hilltop jacket are both good examples of freeride-specific and stylish wear. A good base layer and accessories such as goggles and a helmet will keep you comfortable and protected throughout your ride.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gear for freeride snowboarding is essential for getting the best out of your time on the slopes. From the board and bindings, to the boots, clothing and accessories, all of your equipment should be up to the task of tackling whatever terrain comes your way. We have offered some suggestions here, but we always recommend contacting your local snowboard shop and consulting with an expert to make sure you are getting the best setup for your needs. As long as you have the right equipment, you can trust that you will be getting the most out of your snowboarding experience.
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