The Best Freestyle Snowboarding Gear: Your Guide to Winning Approval.
Snowboarding is one of the most popular winter sports today. Whether you’re an experienced snowboarder or just beginning to explore the slopes, having the right snowboarding gear can make all the difference in your performance and enjoyment. When it comes to freestyle snowboarding, however, a special set of gear is key for success.
The freestyle discipline of snowboarding is all about expressive tricks and jumps, which calls for snowboard gear specifically designed for a wide range of use, from sliding rails to pulling off gravity-defying maneuvers. This guide to the best freestyle snowboarding gear will help get you familiarized with the basics of freestyle riding and the equipment you need to get started.
Why Freestyle Snowboarding Matters
Snowboarding freestyle is, without a doubt, one of the most exciting and challenging disciplines in the sport. It requires a skill set and an understanding of terrain that few other disciplines do. As a result, many pros have dedicated their entire snowboarding careers to mastering freestyle techniques.
And while freestyle has been around for truly some time, the recent rise in popularity of slopestyle events, especially in the Winter Olympics, has really put this event on the map.
Most of all, freestyle snowboarders are known for their creativity and showmanship. Freestyle riders must know how to skillfully combine speed, technique, steel and artistry to choose and execute the best tricks for a given situation. But don’t let this intimidate you from less experienced riders from getting in on the action.
The Best Freestyle Snowboarding Gear
No matter how experienced you are, having the right materials can help ensure your success on the slopes. The basics of what you need for freestyle snowboarding are pretty similar to any other kind of snowboarding — a snowboard, bindings, outerwear, etc. But for freestyle snowboarders, there are some additional pieces of equipment that really make a difference.
Snowboard
Your snowboard is the single most important piece of snowboarding equipment you’ll have. It’s the board that you’ll be strapping your feet to, so you’ll want it to be the right size and shape.
When it comes to freestyle riding, a soft-flexing board is best suited. Soft boards are easier to press and pressurize when performing tricks, and they have more of a buttery kind of feel. Softer boards are best suited for technical tricks and rail slides, while sturdier boards are better for jumps and all-mountain freeriding.
For park riders, the all-mountain freestyle board is often your best bet. Typically, you’ll find this kind of board with a true twin shape and a centered stance, as it helps improve balance for both regular and switch stances.
Bindings
Bindings are a major part of your snowboarding kit as they connect you to your board. Freestyle riders should look for bindings with a responsive and cushioned highback and toe-box. This flexible design is important for easing the impact and strain of hard landings.
Additionally, freestyle bindings are usually made with softer materials to allow more flexibility in certain jumps and tricks. As with most kinds of snowboard gear, it’s important to consider comfort and support when selecting your bindings.
Outerwear
Outerwear is essential for freestyle snowboarding and serves to keep you warm in cold temperatures and protect you from injuries in case of a fall. A cozy sweat-wicking base layer is your first line of defense against the elements. This can be paired with a waterproof jacket, insulated snow pants and a beany or face-mask if you’re hitting the slopes on particularly cold days.
Accessories
From a freestyle perspective, there are plenty of accessories to choose from. The most important pieces may include items like goggles and gloves, which are important for both visibility and comfort out there in the snow.
Snowboarders should consider investing in a helmet as well, as it provides extra protection when attempting more challenging tricks. Aside from that, items like a waxing kit, stomp pad, and an extra tow leash are also good to have on-hand.
Snowboard Boots
Finally, we can’t forget about snowboard boots. During a freestyle riding session, you’ll want to look for boots that offer support and comfort. Since freestyle riding involves a lot of quick tweaking of the board, a stiffer boot sole can help give you the support and response you need from your board. Additionally, look for boots that provide good ankle support, as well as good insulation features like synthetic insulation and removable liners.
Conclusion
Now that you’re a bit more familiar with the basics of freestyle riding, the equipment you’ll need, and the different terrain you may come across, you’re ready to hit the slopes. Just be sure to invest in the right gear and do some research before getting out there as a freestyle snowboarder. When it comes to making sure you have everything you need to take on the trails, taking some time to be sure you have the right gear is one of the most necessary steps. Have fun!
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