Snowboarding Gear for Hardpack Snow: Ultimate Guide.
It’s no surprise that snowboarders appreciate a good quality set of gear. Whether you are a park rider, a backcountry enthusiast, a beginner, or just looking for something better, having the best snowboarding gear for hardpack snow is essential for a good ride and to stay safe on the slopes.
Sliding down a mountainside with a cutting edge snowboard, specially designed boots and a durable snowboard jacket is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have out on the slopes. Hardpack snow can be one of the more difficult-to-navigate terrains, and in order to enjoy the experience, it pays to have the right gear. In this guide, we will discuss what to look for when buying snowboarding gear for hardpack snow, and show you the best pieces of kit worth investing in.
What is Hardpack Snow?
Before we delve into some of the best snowboarding gear for hardpack snow, let’s take a closer look at what the term actually refers to. Hardpack snow is the result of artificially-produced snow, which is where snow is created either through machines, or snow cannons. The snow is then compacted down and often becomes harder than natural snow, which is why it is referred to as hardpack.
As hardpack snow passes, such as through a run on an outdoor slope, or sliding down a pipe at a dry ski slope, the snow that winds up behind you is pushed together and packed down. When it is compressed, it forms a much harder form of snow, which as you’ve guessed, causes it to become much more difficult to ride in.
Why Is It Difficult to Ride on Hardpack?
Riders will often find it difficult to ride on hardpack snow due to the fact that it can’t be fast when turning, due to its resistance. To ride on hardpack snow successfully, the key is to take smaller, more controlled turns, as this will allow you to maintain traction, and not slip.
Cutting through hardpack snow is often done with a snowboard, rather than a set of skis. While skis mostly benefit from more snowy conditions, and float on the surface, a snowboard usually carries less surface area and thusly, less resistance to the surface, making it easier to control and ride.
So, with that in mind, what should you look for in a snowboard that will best serve you in hardpack conditions?
The Best Snowboards for Hardpack Conditions
When it comes to choosing a snowboard that will ride best on hardpack snow, the key is to find a product that is shaped into an aggressive camber, and that has a stiffer flex that can help you to carve through icy surfaces.
The aggressive camber of a hardpack snowboard helps to keep your weight down, and gives you better edge hold. The stiffer flex also allows you to have more control over your board, which is essential when navigating harder snow. The stiffer flex can help you to cruise over icy surfaces without slipping, as the board pushes off the ground and maintains its direction.
Snowboard Boots for Hardpack Snow
When it comes to your boots for hardpack snow, it’s more about the features than it is about the look. The more features a snowboard boot has, the more customization and control you will gain.
When selecting a boot for hardpack snow, you should look for features such as a sock-like fit, and a drop-in heel to help with energy transfer. The importance of energy transfer is important when riding on harder surfaces, as the ability to launch off the surface is essential in order to keep up your speed and avoid sliding.
The Best Snowboarding Jackets for Hardpack
When it comes to the best jackets for handling hardpack snow, it’s all about finding a product with the right insulation and waterproofing. To start, you will want to look for a shell with a rating of at least 10k waterproofing, and 10k breathability.
This will ensure you a have waterproof and windproof defense against any weather you might encounter while on the slopes. Additionally, finding a jacket made with a breathable and waterproof membrane is also desirable, as this will help to regulate your temperature and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Snow Hoodies and Baselayers for Hardpack
For added insulation and warmth for hardpack skiing, a hoodie is always a great choice. Look for features such as a neck gasket and thumbholes that can keep the cold air out, and an extended rib-knit cuffs and hem to lock in heat.
Baselayers are probably the most important outwear layer for hardpack snowboarding, as it will help to add insulation and breathability when riding. Select something made with a blend of synthetic (polyester) and natural materials (merino wool), as this combination will provide warmth while also wicking away sweat.
Gloves and Mittens for Hardpack Snow
When it comes to choosing gloves or mittens for hardpack snowboarding, you will want to find something with full-coverage construction, along with wrist elastics or gauntlets that can help keep the warmth in. You’ll also want something waterproof, as this will give you added protection against the cold.
Goggles for Hardpack Snowboard
When it comes to getting the right vision protection for riding on hardpack snow, the key is to pick up something with a high-quality lens, along with features such as anti-fog coating, UV protection, and an adjustable strap.
Final Thoughts
All in all, if you’re looking for the best snowboarding gear for hardpack snow, you’ve come to the right place. Investing in good quality gear will no doubt help to enhance your riding experience, with each piece of equipment designed to provide protection, warmth, and control for a superior ride on the slopes.
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