Snowboarding gear has changed dramatically in the past few decades. Once a niche activity, snowboarding has become a mainstream winter sport, and with that has come an explosion of new technologies and products. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, having the right gear is essential for getting the most out of your time on the slopes. Here’s a look at some of the most important pieces of snowboarding gear that you need to hit the slopes this winter.
First and foremost, you need a snowboard. Snowboards come in all shapes and sizes and are designed for different kinds of riding. Freestyle boards are generally shorter and wider than all-mountain boards, which are longer and narrower for increased speed and stability. When choosing a board, consider your weight, height, shoe size, riding style and terrain to make sure you get the right one for you.
Next up is boots. The type of boots you need depends on the type of board you’re using: soft boots work best with freestyle boards while stiffer boots are better suited for all-mountain boards. Boots should fit snugly but not be too tight or uncomfortable—if they’re too loose they won’t give you enough support while riding. Also make sure to get waterproof boots with good insulation if you plan to be riding in cold temperatures or wet conditions.
Bindings are also important when it comes to riding safely and comfortably—they connect your feet to your board so it’s essential that they fit correctly. Bindings come in two main types: strap bindings which wrap around your foot with straps or step-in bindings which require special boots that clip into place on each foot separately (these types of bindings are more advanced). Make sure to choose bindings that match up with your boot size, as well as any other preferences such as cushioning or support level desired.
You should also invest in a good snowboard helmet—not only will it keep you safe from impacts but it can also help protect against cold temperatures if properly insulated. Look for helmets that have adjustable sizing systems so they fit snugly without being too tight, plus vents for breathability and padding inside for added comfort.
Finally, don’t forget about outerwear! Waterproof jackets and pants will keep you warm even when wet conditions hit the mountain—look for options made from waterproof fabrics such as Gore-Tex or nylon/polyester blends to stay dry no matter what kind of weather arrives at the resort. You may also want to add some accessories like goggles (for UV protection), gloves (for warmth) or extra layers like base layers (for insulation) depending on how cold it is outside when you ride!
Having the right snowboarding gear makes all the difference when hitting the slopes this winter season—it’ll help keep you safe while allowing you to get more out of your time on the mountain! Be sure to do your research before buying so that everything fits correctly and meets your individual needs as a rider; this way there won’t be any surprises once winter arrives!