The Best in Snowboarding Gear: Get Ready for the Slushy Slopes!
Snowboarding is a sport that has been gaining more and more traction over the years, with many people flocking from around the world to the snowy mountains of snow-filled countries like Utah, Colorado, Canada and New Zealand. There is no doubt that snowboards are essential for anyone riding a snowboard, which is why having the right gear is essential for ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable time on the slopes. If you are looking for the best deals on snowboarding gear, you have come to the right place!
In this blog post, we will look at the different types of snowboards available, the various accessories that riders may need and the best deals to be found on the gear. Whether you are a beginner or a pro rider, it is important to find equipment that is fit for purpose and suits your individual needs. So jump right into it and discover why snowboarding is the perfect winter activity that gives riders the exhilarating thrills that they crave.
Types of Snowboards
When it comes to selecting the right snowboard, the most important factor is to ensure that you are getting the suitable board for your size, physique and skill level. Depending on these three factors, there are six main board types to choose from which include: freeride, all-mountain, freestyle, powder, carver/racer and splitboard.
Freeride boards are generally the most common type of snowboard and are popular with riders who enjoy flying down wide slopes at fast speeds. Generally, these boards are around 155cm-163cm in length, with a mid-wide waist width of 24cm-26cm.
All-mountain snowboards are the most versatile type of board on the market. They are designed with an all-rounder approach and are suitable for any terrain or conditions. All-mountain snowboards are generally longer boards, ranging from 158cm -167cm, which provides a good balance of power and control on every kind of run.
A freestyle snowboard is made for the park and can handle a range of different tricks, jibs and jumps. They are a lot smaller in length, ranging from 140cm-158cm based on the rider’s size and skill level. For beginners who are just starting out, freestyle boards will provide a quicker learning curve due to the shorter length, which gives the rider better control.
Powder snowboards are the powder hounds’ go-to boards. These boards tend to be wider than the other types of snowboards and are commonly known as the “fat” boards. They range from 149cm-159cm in length, with a wide waist width of 26cm-29cm. Powder snowboards are designed with tapered shapes and a rockered profile that provide excellent float in potentially deep or windblown powder.
Carver/racer snowboards are designed for experienced riders who are looking for advanced edge control at high speed. These boards are the shortest of the bunch and are usually around 150cm-155cm in length. The edges of these boards are almost always cambered-edged, which enables tremendous grip and control.
Splitboards are essentially a type of snowboard that allows you to access the most remote and untouched slopes in the backcountry. A splitboard is made up of two halves, which can be strapped together to ride just like a regular snowboard. Splitboarders need to be very experienced and should always travel with an experienced backcountry guide who is knowledgeable in navigation, terrain assessment, snow science and other backcountry safety tips.
Snowboarding Gear
The main pieces of gear for snowboarding are the snowboard, boots, bindings and clothing.
The snowboard itself is the most important, so it is important to take the time to choose the right one. Different snowboards cater to different levels and styles of riding, so make sure to consider the type, size and construction of the board.
The boots are just as important as the board and they should be comfortable, lightweight and supportive. Generally, the stiffer the boot, the more responsive and supportive it will be on the board. Boots should also be paired with bindings that are fit for purpose, with each binding providing a certain response and weight range.
Snowboarding clothing is also important, with coats, pants and gloves all being key items for keeping you warm and comfortable. Layering is always strongly advised for cold weather sports, so a combination of wool, fleece and waterproof fabrics should form the foundation of your snowboarding wardrobe.
Best Deals on Snowboarding Gear
Finding the best deals on snowboarding gear can be tricky, so a good starting point is to shop around online in order to find the best prices. Aim for well-known and established brands that offer quality products, as opposed to generic brands whose wares may be of questionable quality.
Additionally, looking around at ski and snowboard shops at the start or end of the season can also be handy if you want to snap up secondhand or discounted items.
Another great way to find great deals on snowboarding gear is to sign up to newsletters and mailing lists of outdoor stores and sports shops. Often, they will advertise special offers, discounts and exclusive deals – so always make sure you are in the know!
Lastly, eBay and Craigslist are two other fantastic resources for finding secondhand snowboarding gear. While you will want to be careful to ensure that the items are of good quality, these sites offer some of the best deals you can find – just be sure to be safe when buying from a stranger.
Conclusion
Snowboarding can be an awesome way to spend a day in the mountains – but it also comes with the need for quality snowboarding gear. From snowboards to boots, bindings, clothing and accessories, it can be difficult to find the perfect combination for great prices.
But with a bit of research, you can easily find some of the best deals on snowboarding gear available. Whether it is grabbing discounted items at the end of the season or hunting down exclusive offers, being savvy with your shopping is key to getting the best value for money on your purchases.
Image Credit: Pexels