The Ultimate Guide to Buying Snowboarding Gear for Freestyle.
Few activities are more exhilarating than hitting the slopes on a snowboard. With the right equipment, you can soar through the snow like a superhero, spinning and flipping with ease. But before you hit the slopes, you need the right snowboarding gear for freestyle. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned veteran, this ultimate guide to buying snowboarding gear for freestyle will help you make the best decision.
When it comes to snowboarding gear for freestyle, the most important items are your board, boots and bindings. Board size and shape affects turn speeds, balance, and overall feel. Boots offer support and determine the comfort of your ride. Bindings help keep your feet secure to the board and provide power for turning.
So, ready to find the perfect snowboard setup for mastering those flips and spins? Here’s what you need to consider before making your purchase.
The Snowboard
Freestyle snowboards are typically twin-tip, meaning they are symmetrical with identical nose and tail shapes. This design allows you to ride forward or switch. Freestyle boards are wider than other boards and often feature flexy tips to better absorb shocks when landing jumps and to make spins easier. The wider profile also gives you more stability and balance.
When choosing a board, consider your weight. Generally, a board should be around 10-15cm taller than you, depending on your weight. If you weigh 70-100kg, your board should be 150-160cm. For lighter riders (30-50kg), 120-135cm boards are ideal.
If you are a beginner, a soft board is best. For more advanced riders, medium-to-stiff boards are preferable. It’s also important to consider what type of terrain you will be riding most. Is it rails, jibs, jumps, or a mix of all three? This will help determine what type of board you should buy.
Snowboard Boots
When selecting snowboard boots, it’s important to choose those that fit you comfortably and securely. Too loose, and you’ll be dealing with heel lift. Too tight, and you may experience circulation problems.
Soft flexing boots are great for freestyle snowboarding, as they are more comfortable and provide a good range of movement when executing tricks. Look for boots that are waterproof and insulated to keep you warm and dry on the slopes.
Snowboard Bindings
The right bindings provide the connection between your board and your boots and play a key role in your performance. When selecting bindings, match them to the type of board and the type of riding you are doing.
There are two types of bindings: Strap and Step-In. Strap bindings feature several straps and buckles to keep your boots secured to the board. Step-In bindings come as one unit and have a quick-release that allows you to get in and out of the board quickly.
Strap bindings are the preferred choice for freestyle, as they are more adjustable and allow for a wider range of movement. When shopping for bindings, look for ones with a mid-to-stiff flex that will provide plenty of support and response.
Other Snowboarding Gear
Before you hit the slopes, there are a few other snowboarding items you should consider:
Gloves: Cold hands are no fun, so look for gloves that provide warmth and have a good grip on the board.
Goggles: To stay safe and protect your eyes, purchase a pair of UV-protective snowboarding goggles.
Helmet: Helmets provide essential protection and should fit snugly and comfortably.
Headphones and Music Players: You may want to take a break and listen to music while on the slopes. Choose headphones that fit snugly and are waterproof.
Buying the Right Snowboarding Gear
Snowboarding is an amazing activity, but you need the right gear to do it safely and enjoyably. This guide should help you choose the right snowboarding gear for freestyle that will improve your performance and your overall experience. Make sure to shop around and find the best deals on snowboarding gear for freestyle to get the most out of your adventure.
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