Breaking the Ice: Ever Wondered What Snowboarding Gear Pros Recommend?
Winter is here and the mountains are calling. With the snow season in full swing, it’s time to hit the slopes for some shredding action. If you’re venturing out to do some snowboarding, choosing the right gear can make all the difference. You want to make sure you have equipment that is not only functional but also offers the best performance.
Snowboarding is an extreme sport that requires a lot of skill, balance, and the right gear. Your snowboarding gear can make or break your snowboarding experience. It is essential to have equipment that is designed for the terrain, weather conditions and your skill level.
If you’re new to snowboarding, it can be daunting to know where to start. To help you, we’ve asked some of the top snowboarders what gear they recommend, and we’re going to share their wisdom with you.
Boots
Boots are an essential component of your snowboarding gear. They provide support, warmth, and traction on the slippery slopes. Getting the right boots can enhance your performance and make your day on the mountain more comfortable.
When it comes to boots, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to decide on whether you want traditional lace-up boots or the newer BOA lace system, which involves a dial on the side of the boot to tighten the laces. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s a personal preference. Second, you need to consider fit. Boots should fit snugly, but not too tight that your toes are squished. Lastly, you need to think about the traction. You’ll want a boot that can grip the board and give you stability.
Brand Recommendations
Burton and Salomon are two of the most recognized brands for snowboarding boots, and both offer excellent quality and support.
Burton offers a range of boots that cater to different skill levels. One of their most popular boots is the Burton Ruler. It features a traditional lace-up system and a medium flex that provides responsiveness and comfort. This boot offers great traction and control, which is excellent for those who are all about speed.
Another great option is the Salomon Launch BOA. This boot has a dual-zone BOA lace system that allows you to fine-tune the fit. The Launch also features the Ortholite C2 insole, which provides excellent cushioning, and the Flightweight outsole, which offers epic traction.
Bindings
Bindings are the interface between your boots and your snowboard. Your bindings are essential because they control how you steer, balance, and control your board. They come in various styles, so it’s essential to understand the different types and what their benefits are.
When choosing bindings, consider the flex, weight, and adjustability. You want bindings that are lightweight, flexible, and secure. Another critical factor is the fit of your bindings. You want them to fit snugly but not too tight.
Brand Recommendations
Burton and Union are two of the best brands when it comes to snowboard bindings.
Burton’s Mission binding is the perfect choice for most snowboarders. It features a medium flex, which provides the ideal balance between responsive feel and playfulness. The binding has a lightweight frame that reduces fatigue and maximizes board control. The forward lean can be adjusted to find the perfect fit for your riding style.
If you’re someone who hits the park, you might want to consider the Union Contact Pro binding. These are lightweight, responsive, and durable. They have a cored-out design, which makes them super light while keeping them strong.
Snowboard
Choosing a snowboard is a crucial part of your snowboarding gear. Your snowboard should be right for your skill level, body type, and riding style. You want a board that provides stability, control, and responsiveness.
When selecting a snowboard, take into consideration the shape, flex, and length. The shape of the board determines how it performs on the snow. The flex of the board determines how much energy the board produces, and the length of the board should be right for your body type.
Brand Recommendations
Burton and Lib Tech are two of the biggest names in snowboarding, and for a good reason.
The Burton Custom X is a high-performance snowboard that is fantastic for experienced snowboarders. It features a directional shape, which gives it a lot of control and speed. The board has a perfect balance between stiffness and playfulness, which makes it ideal for aggressive riding.
The Lib Tech T.Rice Pro is another exceptional snowboard. It has a unique shape that provides incredible float and maneuverability. It has a medium flex, which makes it versatile, and the Magna-Traction edges give it unbeatable edge hold in icy conditions.
Jacket and Pants
Your jacket and pants are an essential part of your snowboarding gear. They keep you warm and dry in the elements, and they’re also an opportunity to show your style.
When choosing your jacket and pants, consider the fabric, insulation, and fit. You want something that’s waterproof and breathable and that keeps you warm without being too bulky. A good fit is also essential, so you can move freely without feeling restricted.
Brand Recommendations
When it comes to jackets and pants, there are a lot of great brands to choose from. Two of our favorites are Burton and Oakley.
Burton offers a range of jackets and pants that are perfect for snowboarders. Their AK Gore-Tex Cyclic jacket is an outstanding choice. It is breathable and waterproof, and it has a lot of features that snowboarders will appreciate, such as a media pocket, thermolite insulation, and underarm vents.
Oakley’s Great Ascent jacket is another excellent option. It is waterproof, windproof, and breathable, and it has a lot of features that will make your day on the mountain more comfortable. It has a helmet-compatible hood and a powder skirt, and it’s also equipped with RECCO technology, which can help rescue teams locate you in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right snowboarding gear is essential if you want to have a great time on the mountain. Take into consideration your skill level, body type, and riding style when selecting your gear. Always remember, safety should be your priority.
When it comes to snowboarding, the best gear is worth the investment. Don’t settle for affordable but low-quality gear. Investing in equipment that provides top performance and is durable is essential. Keeping your gear in good shape with proper maintenance will ensure that they last for years. So, hit the slopes, break the ice, and enjoy your snowboarding experience.
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