10 Things to Know When Purchasing Snowboards
If you’re new to snowboarding or a seasoned rider looking for your next board, buying a snowboard can feel overwhelming. With so many options, features, and technical specs to consider, it’s essential to know what’s right for you. Whether you're riding powder, carving groomed runs, or hitting the terrain park, the right snowboard will make all the difference in your performance and enjoyment on the mountain.
In this article, we’ll break down the top 10 things you need to know when purchasing a snowboard, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits your riding style, skill level, and preferences.
1. Understand the Different Snowboard Types
Snowboards are designed with specific terrain and riding styles in mind. Before purchasing, it’s essential to identify which type best fits your needs.
Knowing the type of terrain you’ll ride most often helps narrow down your options significantly.
2. Choose the Right Length
Snowboard length is one of the most critical factors to get right. In the past, snowboarders were told to choose a board that, when stood on its tail, reached somewhere between their chin and nose. While this is still a general guide, today’s board lengths are more dependent on your weight, riding style, and experience level.
Most manufacturers provide a size chart that suggests board lengths based on your weight and height, so use that as a guide.
3. Understand the Snowboard’s Flex
Flex refers to how much the snowboard bends. Different flex levels suit different riding styles and abilities.
Knowing your riding style will help you decide which flex is best for you. Freestylers typically opt for softer boards, while freeriders often prefer stiffer models.
4. Camber vs. Rocker vs. Hybrid Profiles
A snowboard’s camber profile refers to the shape of the board when placed flat on the ground. This shape influences how the board performs in different conditions.
Consider where and how you’ll be riding when choosing a camber profile. If you’re unsure, hybrid profiles provide the most versatility.
5. Consider the Snowboard’s Width
Snowboard width is another key consideration, especially for riders with larger feet. If your snowboard is too narrow, your boots will hang over the edges, causing "toe drag" or "heel drag," which can lead to falls, especially when carving.
Your goal is to ensure that your boots sit comfortably on the snowboard without overhanging too much. If you’re unsure, bring your boots when shopping for a snowboard or ask the retailer for guidance.
6. Base Materials: Extruded vs. Sintered
The base of the snowboard, which comes into contact with the snow, can be made from different materials. The two most common are extruded and sintered bases.
If you’re a beginner or casual rider, an extruded base is typically sufficient. Advanced riders or those looking for more speed on the slopes should opt for a sintered base.
7. Directional vs. Twin Shape
Snowboards come in two primary shapes: directional and twin. These affect how the board performs on the mountain.
If you’re riding in all conditions and like versatility, a directional twin (a hybrid of the two shapes) may be the best option, giving you the best of both worlds.
8. Core Materials and Construction
A snowboard’s core is what gives it its strength, flex, and overall performance. Most snowboard cores are made from wood, but the type of wood and the construction process can vary.
For most riders, wood or hybrid cores offer the best balance of performance and durability.
9. Binding Compatibility
When purchasing a snowboard, it’s essential to ensure that your bindings are compatible with the board. Snowboards come with different mounting systems, and not all bindings work with every board.
Be sure to check the mounting system on your snowboard and make sure your bindings are compatible.
10. Budget and Price Range
Finally, consider your budget when purchasing a snowboard. Snowboards range from under $300 for beginner models to over $1000 for high-performance, specialized boards.
While it can be tempting to splurge on a high-end board, make sure that it matches your skill level and needs. As a beginner, you’ll get more value from an affordable, forgiving board while you develop your skills.
Conclusion
Buying the right snowboard is all about understanding your personal riding style, terrain preferences, and skill level. By considering factors like snowboard type, length, flex, camber profile, and core materials, you can find a board that enhances your performance and makes every day on the mountain more enjoyable.
Take your time to research, compare options, and test different boards if possible. The perfect snowboard will not only improve your skills but also make your time on the slopes unforgettable.
Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of what to look for, you’re ready to find the perfect snowboard to fit your riding style and hit the mountain with confidence!