To take full advantage of winter, you need snowboard equipment that meets your needs. Here are some tips to help you make sure you get the right gear.
The board
Of course, snowboard equipment begins with a board, sometimes referred to as a stick.
- Freestyle snowboards are suited for jumps, tricks and snowboarding in terrain parks. Wide, short and symmetrical, they allow for riding with either the right or left foot in the lead.
- All-mountain snowboards are versatile and easy to manoeuvre. They’re recommended for beginners.
- Freeride snowboards are designed for gliding in powder. They have a V-shaped swallow-tail notch cut into the back, and they’re pointed at the front. They allow for clean, carved turns at high speeds.
A freestyle board should come up to between your shoulder and your chin. A freeride board should come up to between your chin and your nose. Make sure that its width is suitable for your feet. If your boots hang over the board by more than a centimetre, you may touch the snow when carving (toe or heel drag). In contrast, a board that is too wide is going to be difficult to handle.
Boots
Freestyle snowboarding usually requires more flexible boots because they allow for greater freedom of movement. That’s why they’re also recommended for beginners. Riding alpine requires harder boots. When shopping for snowboard equipment, try boots on with the socks you’ll be wearing on the slopes.
When standing up in the boots, your feet should be well supported but not squeezed, and your toes should touch the tips of the boots without being curled, as the foam will settle a bit with use.
A helmet
A helmet protects you from shock and is designed to absorb impact and prevent concussions. It should fit the circumference of your head. You don’t want your head to feel squeezed, but the helmet should stay in place when you move. Make sure that your helmet, goggles and face mask are compatible.
Goggles and face masks
Whether you opt for goggles alone or will be wearing it with a face mask, make sure you get a product with good protection against ultraviolet rays. The goggles and face mask should be well-adjusted and adapted to the shape of your face so you can wear them comfortably all day long.
Clothing
Dress in layers to be warm, sweat-free and protected from the elements. Avoid clothing that retains moisture and make sure your mitts (they retain heat better than gloves) and jacket are warm and waterproof.
Take care of your equipment
To make your snowboard equipment last for a long time, take care to maintain and protect it. Check the condition of your equipment regularly, protect your board if you carry it on the roof of your car and avoid wearing your boots while walking in parking lots.
