Introduction
Carving up the slopes like a pro doesn’t need to be a lofty goal – anyone can do it with the right board! The secret lies in selecting the one that’s best suited to you and your level of experience – and that depends on several factors: your height and weight, the type of terrain you’ll be riding, and of course, what kind of experience you’re hoping for.
In this blog post, we’ll look at several different board types and see what might be best for you. We’ll also explore a few other considerations when selecting a board, as well as offer a few suggestions for other gear you might want to pick up to make your boarding experience as smooth and safe as possible.
Types of Boarding
Let’s start by breaking down the types of boards you’ll find on the market. The right board for you will depend on the type of riding you’re looking to do:
Freeride
Looking to take it slow and steady? A freeride board is the perfect choice. These boards are designed to give you plenty of float and stability while still offering great edge control. They tend to have stiffer flex ratings, which makes them great for absorbing bumps and dips and controlling your overall speed.
Freestyle
Those looking to show off their tricks will benefit from a freestyle board. These boards are typically shorter and wider than other types, offering greater maneuverability for spins and jumps.
All mountain
The name says it all – an all-mountain board is ideal for anything and everything. All-mountain boards are versatile boards that blend the attributes of freestyle and freeride boards, allowing for high speeds, great edge control and an overall floaty feel.
Split-boards
For a truly unique experience, split-boards make for a perfect adventure. They’re much like regular snowboards in terms of design, except they’re designed to divide along the length of the board, allowing you to turn your board into a pair of skis – perfect for backcountry exploration.
Board Selection Considerations
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of boards, let’s consider a few other factors when selecting the ideal one:
Flex Rating
The flex rating of your board will determine how it handles and reacts. A board with a high flex rating will be more stable and smooth, while a board with a low flex rating will allow for greater maneuverability. You’ll want to select a board based on the terrain you’ll be riding, as well as your own unique riding style.
Size
The size of your board will determine where and how you ride. A shorter, wider board will be better suited for trick-filled freestyle riding, while a longer, narrower board will be ideal for carving and swift turns.
Weight
Your weight is a key factor when selecting a board – a board that’s too small or too light won’t hold up to your weight and won’t be able to handle the terrain you’ll be riding. Select a board based on your own weight, as well as the board’s weight rating.
Other Gear to Consider
While the right board is an essential to becoming a pro on the slopes, there are a few other pieces of gear that’ll help enhance your experience and keep you safe:
Boots and Bindings
Naturally, you’ll need a pair of boots and bindings to go with your board. Snowboard boots come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s important to make sure they fit properly and securely. You’ll also want to make sure you choose a binding that matches the size, shape, and stiffness of your board.
Protective Gear
Protective gear may not be the most fashionable, but it’s an essential part of any boarding experience. Make sure to pick up a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads to keep your noggin and knees safe during any trick.
Goggles
Goggles are a great way to keep the snow and wind out of your eyes. Be sure to pick up a pair that’s comfortable, waterproof, and offers great peripheral vision, as well as good protection against UV rays.
Conclusion
Carving up the slopes like a pro starts with the right board. Selecting the perfect board depends on a combination of factors – terrain, skill level, and even weight – but with the right mix, you’ll be able to find the perfect board to take your rides to the next level. Once you’ve got your board, don’t forget to pick up the extra gear, like boots and bindings, helmets, and goggles, to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
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