Snowboarding Gear for Cold Weather: What You Need to Stay Warm and Comfortable.
If you’re an avid snowboarder, braving the cold weather of winter doesn’t have to mean giving up your favorite winter sport. Instead, be sure to invest in quality snowboarding gear – from head to toe – that is made specifically to keep you warm, dry and comfortable while you hit the slopes. From snowboard jackets and pants to base layers, helmets and boots, the right set of winter clothing and accessories will keep you safe, dry and cozy while you ride in the cold.
Understanding the Different Types of Snowboarding Gear
When it comes to snowboarding gear, there are four main types of apparel and accessories that every snowboarder should have in order to stay safe and comfortable:
1. Base Layers: Base layers are the first line of defense against the elements, providing extra warmth and breathability against the cold. They should be lightweight and made of natural or synthetic materials that regulate body temperature and wick away moisture.
2. Mid Layers: The mid layer is the insulation layer that further helps to trap heat against the body and keep the cold from seeping in. A quality down jacket, insulated hoody, or fleece mid-layer is essential for staying warm on the slopes.
3. Outer Layers: An outer layer of clothing is essential for blocking wind, rain and snow. Quality snowboarding jackets and pants should be both waterproof and breathable, in addition to being fully seam-sealed.
4. Accessories: The right accessories such as helmets, goggles, and boots, can also make a big difference in terms of comfort and safety while snowboarding.
Choosing the Right Snowboarding Gear
When it comes to selecting snowboarding gear, it’s important to take into consideration the weather and terrain in which you’ll be snowboarding. For extreme weather, you’ll need to invest in a higher quality outer layer designed for more extreme weather and more generous insulation, as well as warm, waterproof footwear and additional layers that can be easily added or removed as needed.
Base Layers: Base layers should be made of lightweight, breathable materials such as wool, synthetic blends or moisture-wicking fabrics that keep the body protected while allowing it to breathe. Opt for a snug fit, as base layers should fit close to the body to reduce layering bulk and help keep you warm.
Mid Layers: Down jackets and fleece vests or pullovers are the best mid-layers, as they provide additional insulation that can be worn alone on milder days or layered beneath an outer layer on colder days. Look for quality down insulation or fleece that offers warmth without adding an excessive amount of bulk.
Outer Layers: The outer layers should feature a waterproof/breathable shell that is fully seam-sealed. Look for jackets and pants made of waterproof fabrics such as Gore-Tex or 3-layer fabric that offer adequate ventilation and are designed to withstand the elements.
Accessories: For cold weather snowboarding, helmets and goggles are essential accessories for protection against the elements. Choose helmets that offer great ventilation and fully adjustable straps for a secure fit. For goggles, make sure they meet your eye protection requirements and come with UV 400 protection and an anti-fog coating to keep your vision clear. Good snowboard boots should also provide adequate ankle and arch support and be warm and breathable with grip soles or crampons to keep your feet firmly in place on the slopes.
Making sure you have the right snowboarding gear can make a big difference in terms of comfort, warmth and safety while you’re riding in the cold weather. Invest in the right set of clothing and accessories, and you’ll make the most out of your time on the slopes throughout the winter months.
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