Snowboarding Gear: Everything You Need to Get Started
The cold months are here and if your winter activities list includes snowboarding, you’re going to need the right snowboarding gear before you can hit the slopes. From the perfect snowboard and boots to the proper clothing and protective gear, having the right kit is essential to enjoying your time and staying safe on the mountain.
Let’s break it down. Here’s a look at the main categories of snowboarding gear and all the components that go into creating the perfect snowboard setup.
Snowboards
The foundation of your set up is your snowboard, so choosing the right board is key. Your choice of board depends on your size, style, the kind of terrain you’ll be riding, and the type of snowboarding you’ll be doing.
Most boards are either twin-tip, directional, or splitboard. Twin-tip boards, which are generally symmetrical in shape, are great for going in both directions and can be used to do tricks and practice in the terrain park. Directional snowboards are typically shaped differently on the nose and tail and are designed for riders who prefer to go in one direction. Splitboards are designed for backcountry snowboarders and have the ability to split into two different boards for the purpose of climbing.
When it comes to size, it’s all about weight. Choose a board that fits your weight—based on the manufacturer’s sizing chart—for the best possible ride.
Snowboard Bindings
To attach your boots to the board, you’ll need bindings. Bindings come in a variety of styles and materials, from hard and stiff to soft and flexible.
Depending on the kind of riding you’ll be doing, you might want to consider going with a stiffer binding that gives you better response and control while carving. A softer binding, on the other hand, may be more forgiving if you’re planning on hitting the terrain park and doing tricks. And if you’re looking for bindings that will fit well with different types of boots, look for a binding with a two-piece highback that offers more adjustability.
Snowboard Boots
Next up are snowboard boots. The type of boots you choose will depend on foot shape, comfort level, and riding style. The stiffer the boot, the more responsiveness and control you’ll get when riding. But if you’re just starting out, a softer boot may be a better choice to give you more flexibility and comfort.
Make sure your boots fit snugly and comfortably. If your toes are touching the front of the boot when you’re standing, they are too small. If your heel is lifting up, they’re too big. It’s OK for the boots to be snug, but you don’t want them to be so tight that they’re uncomfortable.
Snowboarding Clothing
Layering is key when it comes to snowboarding clothing. Start with a good base layer to keep your skin dry and warm, then add a couple of thin layers of performance clothing over top. Make sure to leave room to move and choose a waterproof or breathable pant or jacket. Remember, you sweat while snowboarding, too, so you want to keep the sweat moving away from the body.
And don’t forget your accessories. For cold days, you’ll need a good pair of mittens, balaclava, and a fleece-lined beanie. For days when the sun is out and the temperature is higher, you can swap out your base layer and mittens for a pair of lightweight gloves and a lighter-weight jacket.
Protective Gear
As with any sport, it’s important to wear the proper protective gear when snowboarding. A quality helmet is a must—preferably one with a good fit and adjustable chin strap. Wrist guards, a back protector, and a mouthguard are also essential for any kind of terrain park or freestyle skiing.
Finally, knee and shin pads are important for extra protection. When skiing, it’s also important to wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from UV rays and snow blindness. And if you’re going into the backcountry, an avalanche transceiver and a shovel can save your life.
Now that you have all the gear, it’s time to get out there and enjoy the slopes! Have fun, stay safe, and remember, practice makes perfect.
Image Credit: Pexels