Snowboarding

Snowboarding can be an incredibly dangerous sport if not done the right way. Before hitting the slopes, check out your local ski resort for lesson times and dates. With a little help, you'll be snowboarding like a pro in no time. After you know what you're doing, make sure to get the best equipment for your riding style!

Looking for help shredding?  See our guides on beginning and expert snowboarding.

Snowboards	Jackets	Boots	Bindings	Goggles

Snowboards

Snowboards  are a pricey investment so try out a few rentals first and find the best fit for you. It is important to take into account whether you board goofy or regular. Goofy means your right foot is forward and regular is when your left foot is forward. If you prefer riding goofy, you may want to look into specially made bindings and even specially made boards  so you have the perfect curvature for your riding style.

Take into account the size of a snowboard. It should come up to the area between your nose and chin when it's standing upright on its tail. The width should give you enough space to strap your bindings  and boots  without any overhang. Lastly, if you are a heavier person or have particularly strong legs, look for a stiffer board. For females or lightweight individuals, search for a flexible board: Burton makes special women's boards  for those who need a thinner option.

Now figure out your preferred riding style. All Mountain, or Freeride , is the most common style and it gives you the most options. Freeriding is for someone who enjoys everything (getting a little air, carving up the mountain side, etc), while Freestyle  and Technical riding includes trick riding and stunts; these boards are more technical and will give you slightly fewer options. Because these boards are very responsive, this also makes them a good choice for beginners. Carve/Alpine style is for speed demons--this equipment is ideal for high speed carving, but just remember it's not so good for doing tricks.

When it comes to choosing a brand, there is quite a large selection. Some may choosebased on their favorite pro snowboarder, while others want to endorse a local shop's boards. Although you want a good brand, focus on the specific board: a good name can still make bad gear. Also think about your price range and graphics: the latter will represent your personality but these details should just be the icing on the cake, not the dealmaker or breaker. If you're looking to save money, consider buying last year's models, and start your search around the summer time so you're more likely to benefit from sales.

Snowboard Brands
Burton  is an incredibly popular brand with tons of design options. They adapt to just about any type of riding style.	K2  is innovative and offers state of the art technology and vivid graphics. Their boards are good for mountain riding.	Lamar  is a more affordable option as far as snowboards go; however, the quality isn't as high as some of the other brands.	Gnu  has great designs and shapes, but their gear is mid-quality. Think park performance rather than mountain performance.	Rome  is a well-known brand with nice-looking designs. Their motto is to always listen to what the riders want.

Bindings

Snowboard bindings  come in three main types: strap on, step in or plate/lever. 

• Strap on bindings  are the most common; they have a more flexible fit but should keep you safely in place during your ride. 
• Step in bindings  will require corresponding boots. These are super options for easy step in and out, but for trick riding you will want to steer clear of these. Oftentimes they will dislodge during hard landings or big falls. 
• Plate/Lever bindings  need to be fitted with matching boots. These are the most uncommon type of bindings and are made particularly for fast riders.

Accessories

Accessorize! Make sure you have the latest gear this season so you're prepared for the slopes and will look good as well.

• Snowboarding Gloves 
• Look for some killer gloves from Grenade : they keep you warm and can be an awesome form of creative snowboarding expression.
• Stomp Pad 
• A snowboard stomp pad  is something that comes into play while exiting a snow lift. When they are not shredding, snowboarders walk around with one foot unlactched. When you get off the lift, you usually have to make a quick turn, so a stomp pad is where you put your free foot until you can get strapped in again. It gives you traction to make a few turns before getting situated.
• Snowboarding Socks 
• These socks  are higher than your average one so you'll have the comfort and warmth you need while keeping snow and slush out.
• Snowboard Bag 
• Keep your board free of nicks and scratches in transport, or bag it over the summer to keep the dust off. A snowboard bag  is a wise investment for the safety of your board.

Quick Picks

Bolle X-9 OTG Goggle  A special coating resists scratching and prevents unwanted fog.	DC Women's Phase 2010 Snowboard Boot  The synthetic leather upper ensures durability and the Delta liner provides extra warmth.	Lib Technologies Skate Banana BTX Snowboard  Perfect for freestyle riding. It has a soft underfoot and a stiff nose.	Dakine Men's Tour Bag  This padded bag will keep your board safe and has pockets for all your other gear.	Giro Omen Snow Helmet  14 vents will keep you cool and the high-impact zones will ensure your safety.

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
AU: Snowboarding
UK: Snowboarding

Snowboarding 2

Related Guides

• Skis: Just in case you decide snowboarding is not your sport of choice!
• Jackets: Don't go out in the cold without a flexible and durable ski jacket.
• Snowboard Boots: Find the perfect boots for your snowboard.
• Snowboarding Helmets: Make sure your head is well protected.
• Snowboarding Pants: Stay warm by wearing the proper attire.