Style & Performance on the Mountain
Snowboarding is an adventurous sport that is all about having fun, pushing the boundaries of athleticism, and flying through the powdery snow while taking in breathtaking scenery. As the sport continues to gain momentum and interest, the equipment used by professional riders is correspondingly improving and evolving with the latest technologies and styles. To help you get the most out of your snowboarding experience, here’s a look at the latest and greatest snowboarding gear that pro riders are using this season.
Snowboards
For those of us who may be new to the game, there are a few basic categories of snowboards. All-mountain boards are the standard for recreational snowboarding and are great for beginners and intermediates because they are incredibly versatile and can handle any conditions from groomed runs to powdery snow. All-mountain boards are great for learning the ropes and are sufficiently durable for park sessions.
For more experienced snowboarders, there are more specialized boards such as freestyle and powder boards. Freestyle boards are typically used for tricks, jumps, and turning within the terrain park. These boards tend to be shorter so they can handle fast turns and lots of abuse. Powder boards are designed for hitting deep powder and feature a much wider shape with lots of rocker in the nose. This allows the board to skid through the snow with ease and float on top of deeper drifts.
Boots
Now that you’ve got the right board, it’s time to pick out a good pair of boots. Snowboard boots are designed to provide the necessary support to your body while allowing your feet to move with the natural motion of your body while riding. As a result, many pro riders are turning to boots with softer and more flexible materials, such as nylon and foam, which have been developed to better conform to the shape of your foot.
When picking out the right pair of boots, it’s important to keep in mind that each type of boot is suited for a specific purpose. For instance, freestyle boots should be lightweight and flexible, whereas all-mountain boots are meant to be softer and provide extra cushioning for better on-piste control. Furthermore, backcountry boots should have a stiffer flex and a higher tongue for increased support when hiking and traversing.
Bindings
Having the right bindings is key to getting the most out of your snowboarding experience. Bindings are designed to keep your boots securely attached to the board and provide an efficient energy transfer between your body and the board. The key components of bindings are base plates and highbacks, which support and cushion your feet.
As technology progresses, bindings continue to get lighter and more durable. Many pro riders are now opting for bindings with stiffer and more supportive highbacks, as well as ultra-lightweight base plates that allow for greater freedom of movement. In addition, the latest bindings feature increased heel and toe cushioning to reduce fatigue and stress on the feet.
Other Essentials
Besides your board, boots, and bindings, there are a few other essentials you’ll want to pack when you hit the slopes. For starters, a helmet is absolutely essential to keep your head safe and protected in the event of a crash. You should also consider investing in knee pads and a pair of gloves or mittens to keep your hands and legs warm. A pair of goggles is also essential to protect your eyes from snow, wind, and the sun.
Finally, it’s always helpful to keep a few snacks, some water, and a first-aid kit in your bag just in case you need them. Remember, it’s always better to be prepared for the worst, so make sure you’re well-stocked for your snowboarding adventure.
Race Pro Equipment
For more serious riders, a variety of high-performance equipment is available to help you reach the top of the podium. Race-specific boards are generally shorter and stiffer than all-mountain boards and are designed for speed and precise control. In addition, race boots are also specifically designed for uncompromising edge control, quick-response steering, and maximum power transfer. Slalom and GS bindings also provide extra stiffness, while high-tech injection molded ankle straps increase support and stability.
Taking it to the Next Level
Snowboarding is an amazing sport and to get the most out of it, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest and greatest equipment. By investing in the right gear, you’ll be able to take your snowboarding abilities to the next level and unlock all of the thrills and joys of the sport. So if you’re ready to take your riding to the next level, make sure you’ve got the gear to make it happen.
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