The Best Snowboarding Gear for Freestyle Snowboarders: All You Need for Endless Fun.
Nothing quite compares to the thrill of snowboarding, especially if you’re going for freestyle. From the thrill of spinning and flipping off a jump to the powdery smooth turns, snowboarding just has a way of bringing out the adrenaline junkie in all of us.
So if you’re a freestyle snowboarder looking to take your skills to the next level, you’ll need the right gear to do it. This blog post will take a look at what kind of gear you need as well as some helpful tips on picking the right gear for your needs. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in a board, boots, bindings, and clothing – plus some additional gear you may want to consider. Let’s dive in.
Choosing the Right Snowboarding Board
The board is the foundation of the freestyle snowboarder’s gear, and it’s essential to get it right if you want to take your tricks to the next level. Generally, you’ll want to look for a “twin” shaped board, which is symmetrical on both tips and is generally easier for freestylers to maneuver. Furthermore, a softer material makes for a more forgiving ride, which is important in a sport where serious crashes can and do happen from time to time.
For bindings, get a pair that is wide enough to provide ample support while still allowing room to maneuver. Generally, the wider the binding the better, although it’s important to keep in mind that too wide a binding may inhibit tricks or cause discomfort. Also, consider your weight and stance when buying bindings; heavier riders may prefer stiffer bindings with wider bases while lighter riders may benefit from a lighter build.
Don’t forget to pick up a set of bindings to go along with your board. Generally, you’ll want to look for bindings that provide solid support and are designed specifically to fit your board. Make sure that the bindings you opt for are full padded and adjustable for a comfortable fit, and look for process that allow for quick release when you need to adjust the bindings.
Snowboard Boots: Finding the Right Fit
In addition to the board and bindings, don’t forget to pick up some boots. Generally, you’ll want to look for a mid-level boot that provides superior support and cushioning. If you’re new to snowboarding, it’s a good idea to take some time to break in your boots as well. Start by wearing them around the house until you’re used to them, then take them out on dry land to get the right fit before heading out on the slopes.
A good rule of thumb is to make sure that your toes can barely fit into the toe box of your boots when they’re standing. This will ensure that your feet don’t slide forward while you’re riding, which could put you off balance and increase your chances of injury.
Dressing the Part: Layering for Warmth and Performance
Once you have the basics sorted out, it’s time to think about layering. This is especially important for freestyle snowboarders, as you’ll need to protect yourself against the cold and wet while staying lightweight and agile. The best way to do this is to layer up with different pieces of clothing, such as a base layer, mid layer, and outer layer.
For the base layer, look for a piece of breathable clothing such as a light long sleeve shirt that will keep you warm without trapping in too much sweat. As for the outer layer, opt for a waterproof jacket and pants that will keep the snow out and let you have fun no matter the weather.
Some Additional Gear You May Consider
While technically not essential, there are a few pieces of gear that you may want to consider if you’re looking to take your freestyle snowboarding to the next level. A pair of safety goggles is a must, as they’ll protect your eyes from the elements, and a helmet is also a good idea for added protection. Alternatively, you may want to consider picking up a helmet with an added audio system, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes while shredding.
Finally, don’t forget to pick up a pair of quality snowboard gloves and some boot warmers, which can help keep your hands and feet warm in cold temperatures. Oh, and don’t forget a snowboard backpack, which is essential if you’re planning on bringing your gear with you.
Conclusion
Freestyle snowboarding is one of the most exhilarating sports around, but it’s important to have the right gear in order to stay safe and make the most of each run. From choosing the right board and bindings to layering your clothing and finding the right fit in your boots, this guide should have given you a better idea of what to look for in a set of snowboarding gear. Just remember to always put safety first and you’ll be sure to have endless fun on the slopes.
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