The Best Snowboarding Gear: Essential Items for Riding in Style
Are you serious about snowboarding? If so, investing in the best snowboarding gear is a must. Not only will it make your experience more enjoyable, but it can help you stay safe and warm while hitting the slopes. From your snowboard and bindings to boots, a helmet, and more, there are several essential items to consider when kitting out for a day of snowboarding.
To help you decide what to pick for your riding days, we’ve put together this guide to the best snowboarding gear. Read on to discover our top suggestions for the most essential snowboarding items.
Snowboard
The foundation of any snowboarding kit, the snowboard is undoubtedly the most important item of gear you’ll need. But with so many available on the market, it can be tricky to decide which is suitable for your needs – and the type of riding you enjoy.
For most beginners, a ‘freestyle’ snowboard will tick all the boxes. These boards tend to be twin-tip, allowing you to ride switching (both ways), with a medium-soft flex and good stability, ideal for practicing turns, learning jumps, and riding features. That said, there are several other options available – so consider what your desired riding style is before you make your purchase.
Bindings
Next on the list of the best snowboarding gear is your bindings. Put simply, these attach the snowboard to your feet and help you control it. Those designed for freestyle snowboarding are both responsive and supportive, allowing technical tricks and agile maneuvers.
Also, pay close attention to sizing. Most bindings come with recommended ranges for shoe size, and you’ll want to know this information before you buy. It’s also recommended to check compatibility with your chosen board – different types of bindings can fit on different boards, so ensure you’re getting ones made for the type of snowboard you have.
Boots
It follows that you’ll need boots to go with those bindings. When choosing snowboarding boots, look for those that fit snugly with no dead space – but not so tight that they cause discomfort. Flexible, articulate models are ideal for entry-level riders, while stiffer ones are better suited to experienced snowboarders.
Make sure to select a boot with laces, as they’ll help you achieve the right snugness and support. As with bindings, it’s important to consider compatibility with the bindings you’re using – so again, take note of the recommended sizing ranges and refer to your board.
Clothing
The key to staying warm and dry while snowboarding lies in your clothing. Layering is vital here, and you’ll need to pick specialty snowboarding gear, such as special base layers and thermals, jackets, trousers, and gloves.
The outer layers should be waterproof, with sealed seams and pockets, plus a hood if you’re expecting particularly bad weather. Multi-functional pieces that layer up and remove with ease are best, and it’s a good idea to bring a spare set in case you get soaked through.
Helmet
It goes without saying that you’ll also need to wear a helmet while riding. Durable and lightweight models are ideal, and it’s a good idea to find a style that works with your goggles and beanie. For extra warmth, padded earmuffs and a neck warmer can also come in handy.
Goggles
Another item you’ll need is a pair of goggles. Large-framed ones offer greater peripheral vision and are less likely to impede movement, but you should also pick a pair with a venting system for added breathability. Anti-fog lenses also help to keep your vision clear. All in all, think ventilation, visibility, and durability when it comes to goggles.
Additional Accessories
As well as the main pieces of snowboarding gear we’ve outlined, you might want to consider other accessories too. For example, you might want to invest in a waxing kit to keep your board in tip-top condition, or handheld video cameras to capture your sessions. There are lots of great options available, and we hope you’ll find the right items in this roundup of the best snowboarding gear.
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