The Best Cheap Snowboarding Gear Alternatives
. Get All the Gear You Need Without Breaking the Bank
Whether you’re just starting out in snowboarding, an experienced shredder, or somewhere in between, you’ve no doubt heard that snowboarding comes with hefty price tags when it comes to gear.
Well, we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to – there are plenty of ways to make sure you’re suiting up without going broke. Here, we’ll dive into the best cheap snowboarding gear alternatives, and show you how you can get all the gear you need without breaking the bank.
What Gear is Necessary?
A good place to start is familiarizing yourself with what gear is necessary to snowboard safely. If you’re new to the sport, here are the basics you’ll need:
• Snowboard – this is the most obvious piece of gear. Gather up some information on different snowboard profiles and shapes to choose the one that works best for you.
• Bindings – these connect you to the board and come in both strap and step-in styles, so make sure you wear the right one for you.
• Boots – your boots are extremely important for comfort, performance and the ability to control your board. The wrong boots can quickly ruin your snowboarding experience.
• Helmet – wear a helmet even if you’re just starting out. You never know when something could happen, and it’s best to stay as safe as you can.
• Goggles – they’re necessary to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays (especially if you’re snowboarding in a sunny area) and, of course, flying snow.
Cheap Snowboard Gear Options
These are the main tools you’ll need to get on the slopes, but there are also smaller items such as gloves, base layers and other accessories you can use to make your experience even better.
1.Snowboards
If you’re on a budget, don’t sweat it—there are still plenty of quality snowboards available for cheap. Try sticking with mid-range boards made with traditional camber and 1-2 degree sidecut so you don’t sacrifice performance.
You can also go for traditional all-mountain boards (also known as ‘jibs’), which are typically the least expensive option. These boards are great for all-around use, but won’t excel in a specific area. That said, if you’re just starting out or plan to be riding all over, these are a great option.
Finally, you can opt for a slightly used board. With a little research you can find out which models will last you through multiple snowboard seasons, allowing you to get the quality you want without breaking the bank.
2.Bindings
Bindings are just as important as the board, as they connect you to the snowboard and give you control over it. You can opt for strap or step-in bindings, depending on convenience and ease of use.
For bindings on a budget, don’t go for the cheapest model you can find—they may not be able to withstand the performance you’re looking for. Instead, opt for ones with decent construction and enough padding for comfort.
And just like snowboards, used bindings are one of the best ways to find the quality you want for a cheap price.
3.Boots
Snowboard boots are pricey, but you can still get the best ones for your budget if you know what to look for. Opt for key features such as quick lacing systems and good insulation.
Also, when trying on your new boots, make sure they aren’t too tight—if they’re too tight they’ll create hotspots and they won’t give you the control you need. On the flip side, if they’re too loose then your feet will have a hard time staying put when you’re riding.
Most importantly, double-check to make sure the boots you’re buying are compatible with the bindings you have.
4.Helmets and Goggles
One of the best places to find cheap snowboarding gear is at your local secondhand shop. Many shops will have a selection of helmets and goggles, as well as other small items, that are in great condition.
When shopping for used helmets be wary of any models with cracked shells and check for any frayed straps or loose fittings. Goggles should fit comfortably and should also have no visible damage, including scratched or foggy lenses.
Ready or Not…
Now you have all the information you need to make sure you have the best gear without breaking the bank. Gather up some info on what types of boards, bindings, boots and others bits you’ll need, and find out where you can get the quality you want for a budget price.
Good luck out there and happy snowboarding!
Image Credit: Pexels