The Ultimate Guide to Finding Snowboarding Gear
So, you’ve decided to take up snowboarding, give yourself a pat on the back and welcome to the snowboarding world! Like any sport, what you wear and the equipment you ride with is of the utmost importance. When it comes to snowboarding, things get even more complicated due to the different climate, terrain and snow-style.
Finding the right snowboarding equipment for you can feel overwhelming, and without any research; it’s hard to know what kind of gear is out there in the market. To get you started, we’ve compiled this ultimate guide to buying snowboarding gear, so you can hit the ski lifts looking like an expert.
Snowboarding Helmet
Helmets are crucial while snowboarding, especially if you’re on a beginner level. No matter how well you prepare and gear up, falls will still occur, and at the end of the day, your head is the most important thing to protect.
When it comes to choosing a helmet, here’s what to keep in mind:
• Style. Ski and snowboard helmets come in various styles, including half and full-cut options. Half-cut helmets are typically more popular since they are more ventilated and lightweight.
• Fit. Make sure you test out all sizes to find the one that fits your head the best and is the most comfortable. Remember to bend, lift and move your head to ensure that the helmet won’t slide off the top, sides or back.
• Adjustability. Look for a helmet that has adjustable straps or a dial system so you can achieve the perfect fit.
• Certification. In the US, the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates and certifies helmet safety. Make sure your helmet has the CPSC certification.
• Goggles. If a helmet doesn’t come with a face shield, you’ll need to buy goggles to protect your eyes and face.
Snowboarding Jacket
The right outerwear is important to keeping you comfortable on the slopes. Choose a snowboarding jacket that is waterproof, windproof, and insulated. Preferably, look for a jacket with extra seams to keep you sealed from the cold, as well as a good hood.
Other things to consider are:
• Ski lift pass pocket. Many snowboarding jackets come with an LCD pocket for you to keep your ski pass without having to remove them from your pocket every time you go on the ski lift.
•Ventilation. Look for a jacket that’s insulated but also has zippers for ventilation so you don›t overheat when you’re on the slopes.
•Fit. Snowboard jackets should fit snugly, but you should still have room to layer underneath. Make sure to try it on with base and mid layers as well.
•Gaiters. This is an optional add-on of elastic fabric that goes over your wrists, ankles or both to prevent snow from getting inside.
Snowboarding Pants
Snowboard pants are essential for keeping you warm and dry on the slopes. Look for pants that are waterproof and breathable, with good insulation and waterproof seams.
As for style, it’s suggested to go for a slightly baggy fit for extra mobility. In case you hit the ground, it’s better for your pants to be snug, rather than super tight and restrictive.
Also, keep in mind these things when shopping for snowboarding pants:
• Gaiter. Like a snowboarding jacket, you can get pants with an ankle gaiter. If the pair you like doesn’t have it, you can always add one.
• Fit. Try them on with base and mid layers to make sure you can move comfortably with layers.
• Pockets. You’ll want your snowboarding pants to come with at least one or two pockets (preferably with a zipper closure) so you can keep your phone, wallet and other essentials secure.
Snowboarding Boots
Your snowboard boots are of course incredibly important for both comfort and performance. Choose a pair that fits true to size, has enough room in the toes, and gives you optimal control on your board. Boots should also have good lacing systems to ensure tension around the ankle and calf for added support.
When it comes to snowboard boots, consider the following:
• Lacing System. The lacing system should be fast and reliable, with no pockets of air that might create discomfort.
• Comfort. The boots should be snug but comfortable. Make sure they fit when they’re on your feet, with the laces tight, but not so much that you feel restricted.
• Flex. Choose a flex rating that matches your riding style, ability and type of terrain. Generally, a softer flex is more suited for beginners and freestyle riders.
• Fit. As with snowboard pants, try them on with base and mid layers to make sure you can move comfortably.
Snowboards
When it comes to finding the right snowboard, start with your size, ability and preference and then narrow down what kind of board you’re looking for. Boards typically come in four main styles – all-mountain, freestyle, freeride and powder – and with different type of bindings, lengths, materials and shapes.
• Ability. Start by knowing your preferred style of riding, so you can narrow down what kind of board you need. You may need a different board for different terrain.
• Size. The biggest factor in determining the right board size is your weight. Generally, a shorter board is best for those who are on a beginner or intermediate level. Those on an advanced level can opt for a longer board.
• Bindings. Bindings come in different sizes and styles, depending on your preference. Choose bindings that fit your boot size and have a stiffness and flex level that you’re comfortable with.
• Material & Shape. Once you’ve narrowed down the size and type of board, look for the one that matches your style and terrain. Freeride and all-mountain boards generally have more camber and a directional shape, freestyle boards are usually a bit softer and feature a symmetrical shape, and powder boards come with more speed and maneuverability thanks to their wide noses and tapered tails.
Materials range from softer, park-friendly boards to stiffer, all-mountain boards. Look at the details closely to understand what your specific board needs.
Now that you’ve got a better grasp of the gear you’ll need to start snowboarding, all that’s left to do is to get out there and hit the slopes. Getting the right gear isn’t the end-all-be-all, but snowboarding is definitely a lot more fun when you’re comfortable and safe. With the right equipment, you’ll be hitting jumps, riding rails and carving up the mountain in no time. Happy shredding!
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