Have you been bitten by the adrenaline-pumping, winter-sport bug called snowboarding? Or perhaps you’re just starting out and need some guidance on what gear to invest in? Either way, finding the perfect snowboarding set can be quite overwhelming, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But don’t fret, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the factors to consider when looking for the best affordable yet high-quality snowboarding package that suits your needs.
Before we dive in, let’s differentiate between a snowboard and a snowboarding set. A snowboard is the board that you ride on, while a snowboarding set includes the board, bindings, and boots. Getting all three components in a package is ideal for beginners or those looking to upgrade their gear.
Now that we’ve cleared up that misunderstanding, let’s move on to the factors you should consider while choosing a value snowboarding set:
Budget
First up, how much are you willing to spend on your snowboarding set? The cost of snowboarding gear can vary significantly depending on the brand, quality, and newness. An excellent quality package can start from $400 and can go as high as $1000 or more. However, not everyone has the luxury to splurge on expensive gear. A value snowboarding set can cost between $200 – $400.
Keep in mind that expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. Some brands sell their packages for a premium because of their brand name. Always read reviews online and seek recommendations from experienced riders.
Riding Style
There are three types of snowboarding styles – Freestyle, Freeriding and Carving.
– Freestyle riding is all about tricks and jumps in the park.
– Freeriding is about exploring the mountain’s terrain and finding fresh powder.
– Carving is about high speed and carving down groomed trails.
Different riding styles require different snowboard shapes and flex levels. Make sure you know what riding style you want to explore before purchasing gear. If you’re unsure, all-mountain snowboards are versatile and can be used for all styles.
Size
Choosing the right snowboarding size is crucial for your comfort and riding experience. The size of a snowboard is primarily determined by your weight, height and shoe size. There are snowboard size charts available online that can help determine your ideal board length.
Taller and heavier individuals should choose longer snowboards, while shorter and lighter individuals can opt for shorter ones. Your shoe size also plays a vital role in determining the size of the board. You don’t want your boots hanging off the edges of the board.
Camber Profile
A camber profile describes the shape of the snowboard. The most common camber profiles are:
– Traditional Camber: Has a slight arch underfoot with the board’s tip and tail coming off the ground. Traditional camber provides excellent pop, stability, and edge control. It’s ideal for riders who want to carve and ride at high speeds.
– Rocker Camber: Is the opposite of traditional camber. It has a reverse arch that makes the board’s tip and tail raise, promoting buoyancy in powder and easier turn initiation.
– Hybrid Camber: A combination of traditional camber and rocker camber. It’s the best of both worlds, with excellent pop, stability, and edge control, and buoyancy in powder.
The camber profile you choose will depend on your riding style, terrain, and personal preference.
Bindings
Bindings connect the snowboard to your boots and transfer energy from your feet to the board. There are two types of bindings – strap bindings and rear-entry bindings. Rear-entry bindings are easier to get in and out of, while strap bindings provide better support and customization.
It’s essential to choose bindings that match your flex level preference. Softer flex bindings allow for more flexibility and better manoeuvrability. Stiffer bindings provide more response, stability, and better performance in high-speed situations.
Boots
Boots are the most critical part of your snowboarding set. A good pair of boots provides support, warmth and the necessary flex needed for your riding style. Finding the perfect pair of boots is subjective, and the sizes vary from brand to brand.
Make sure you try on the boots with the bindings you intend to buy. The boots should fit snugly, with no heel-lift and no discomfort around the toes. It’s worth investing in boots with a heat-mouldable liner as they mould to the shape of your foot and provide maximum comfort.
What is the most affordable yet high-quality snowboarding package?
After considering all the factors, we have concluded that the most affordable yet high-quality snowboarding package on the market is the System MTN and APX Men’s Snowboard Package.
This package includes a System MTN Snowboard, which is an excellent all-mountain board, suitable for any riding style. It has a hybrid camber profile, which combines both traditional camber and rocker camber for optimal performance. It’s lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and is perfect for every skill level.
The package also includes System APX Bindings, which provide excellent response and have a softer flex level, making them ideal for beginners and intermediate riders. The bindings are easy to adjust and have comfortable straps, making them an excellent choice for long riding sessions.
And lastly, the package includes System APX Men’s Snowboarding Boots. These boots have a heat-mouldable liner that conforms to the shape of your foot, providing maximum comfort and support. They have excellent traction, which reduces the likelihood of slipping, improving your overall riding experience.
This package is priced at $319.95 and is an excellent value for money snowboarding set that will last for many seasons.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect snowboarding set can be overwhelming, but taking the time to consider the factors mentioned above will ensure you find a package that suits your needs and budget. It’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality, and the System MTN and APX Men’s Snowboard Package provides precisely that. Keep in mind that your snowboarding gear is an investment and should be treated accordingly. Maintaining your gear properly will ensure it lasts for many seasons and keeps you riding in style. Happy shredding!
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