The Best Snowboarding Gear: Get Ready for Epic Adventures
When it comes to winter activities, snowboarding is one of the most exhilarating experiences. Whether you’re a rookie on the slopes or a seasoned rider, it’s important to have the right gear to help you get the most out of your trip. It’s the right snowboarding gear that helps safeguard you against any bumps, bruises or threatening weather conditions, while facilitating supreme manoeuvrability and style in the process.
The key is to ensure that you have the right equipment for your individual style and specific needs. Innovation in the snowboarding world has come a long way in recent years, and now there are endless options for those wanting to get their hands – and feet – on the best snowboarding gear available. To help break it down, we’ve done the hard work for you and put together a comprehensive guide to the top 5 must-have snowboarding pieces of equipment.
1. Snowboarding Boots
When it comes to the best snowboarding gear, boots are undoubtedly at the top of the list. These boots protect your feet, provide support, and ensuring your feet remain securely attached to your board, regardless of the terrain. The right boots depend on your preferred discipline (freeride, backcountry, freestyle etc.), but here are a few tips to pick a good pair:
• Look for a composite sole instead of a plastic sole, as it’s softer and warmer.
• Opt for taller boots as they give your ankles more support, and make sure the boot shaft feels snug against your shin.
• The lacing system should also be secure and mechanically-driven for improved locking.
2. Bindings
Next up are bindings, which are essentially the connection between your boots and board. They’re vital for keeping your feet from moving around and provide greater control, so choosing the right bindings is essential. The main aspects to consider here are your riding level, shoe size and type of binding system.
• To pick the correct size for your bindings, refer to the sizing charts provided by manufacturers.
• Established brands such as Flow, Union, and Rome typically offer higher quality options
• There are two major types of binding systems: strap and step-in. Straps are more common as they’re easier to use, while step-ins are ideal if time is of the essence.
3. Snowboard
A good snowboard is a must-have if you want to get the most out of your snowboarding experience. As a beginner, choosing the right shape, length, and size can be a challenge. However, all three aspects must be considered to get the ideal board for you.
• Boards are traditionally sized according to your weight, but the amount of flex is a key factor as well.
• Freestyle, freeride and all mountain snowboards all have different requirements, so make sure you get the right board based on your own individual needs.
• Rocker boards and camber boards each offer different levels of stability, so have a play around on each one to see which works best for you.
4. Outerwear
No best snowboarding gear list would be complete without suitable outerwear. This should not only keep you warm, but also provide a certain style, resisting water and wind. The wide range of options on the market makes it difficult to choose, so let the following tips be your guide:
• Shop for waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex jackets and outerwear, plus those with breathable fabric.
• Look for garments that allow for a full range of movement, so neither hinders your freedom, nor restricts you from landing a jump.
• Layer your clothing for added warmth; you can always peel off layers as the day heats up.
5. Accessories
Some other essential accessories to consider when shopping for the best snowboarding gear are helmets, protection pads and goggles. While helmets are required by law in some countries, they can be incredibly beneficial in the event of falling. Helmets shield your head from the cold and dampens of snow if needed.
Goggles not only provide protection against the wind, snow and sunlight, but also give you a clearer picture of the terrain ahead. It’s also worth investing in wrist guards, knee and elbow pads, helmet audio systems and Snowshoes to give yourself the best experience.
Snowboarding gear is essential for having a safe and enjoyable experience. The items you choose should be tailored to suit your individual style, so take the recommendations from this guide and start shopping for the best snowboarding gear for your adventure. Whatever you do, make sure you’re outfitted in pieces that keep you safe, comfortable and looking your best.
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