Like any other snow sport, learning to snowboard can be challenging and yet thrilling at the same time, ensuring novices get a memorable feel of the exciting sport. However, purchasing the right board is the first and highly crucial step towards becoming a successful snowboarder.
So, how does one find a suitable beginner’s snowboard from a myriad of endless options available in the market? Browsing options online or even walking into a retail outlet selling snowsports essentials can be an overwhelming experience for most first-time buyers.
But the task is not necessarily a crucially challenging one, and you can quickly find suitable equipment by following the below-listed tips.
Consider the types
The multi-billion dollar ski industry is growing steadily due to rising demand for various snowboarding, skiing, and other snowsport equipment. Invariably, manufacturers have come up with unique and new designs that sports enthusiasts are finding highly exciting.
To know which snowboard is best for you, you must first determine the kind of terrain you wish to use it on. For instance, all-mountain boards are perfect for riders who desire to explore a specific mountain extensively. Freeride models are great for those who prefer ungroomed riding terrains. Powder boards are best for days when there is excessive or deep powder on the ground.
Finally, you can also consider freestyle variants for riding in the parks or the split-board design made especially for backcountry riding.
Determine the suitable length and width
A traditional and effective way to determine the right board length is to stand it next to you on its tail. Ideally, it should reach somewhere between
your chin and nose. However, you can also refer to size charts or seek guidance from any ski experts you may know.
Ensure the boots extend only slightly over the edges to know if the board has the appropriate width for your riding needs. If you buy a board where the boots overhang too much, it could cause you to lose balance and control, resulting in unpleasant, painful falls.
Check the profile
A beginner’s snowboard with a hybrid camber profile typically has a rocker between the camber sections and the feet. It helps bring stability to the rider in sudden turns, jumps, and other riding surprises that may result in a loss of balance. In contrast, a hybrid rocker profile has a camber toward the tail (or tip), enabling riders to enjoy easier turns and stay afloat on the snow.
Another flat-to-rocker profile variety comes with a flat section underfoot and rockers before vital contact points. It empowers riders to have a stable and hiccup-free riding experience.
Other features to consider
A critical point to note is choosing a board shape that suits your riding needs. For example, get a directional model if you plan to indulge in high-speed carving. Alternatively, a twin snowboard is apt for pipe or park riding, while a directional-twin is best for all-mountain terrain.
Board flex is critical, too, with experts recommending that beginners choose a soft to medium flex variant. Think of it this way: on a flex scale of one to ten, with ten being the stiffest; it is recommended that you get a snowboard below four.
Furthermore, you can refine your choice and search pattern by studying the sidecut radius of the board, its effective edges, and the base material.
