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Purchasing a snowboard is not as easy as it once was. There are so many great brands out there competing for your pocket money. That said here are a few tips that we hope will make you’re buying experience a pleasant AND informed one.
For starters, here are the eight most popular types of snowboards:
Freeride boards, Freestyle boards, Backcountry boards, Park/Pipe boards, Kids boards, Women boards, Boardercross boards and Signature Series boards.
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When buying a snowboard you first have to consider your height, weight, foot size, riding style and expertise level so that you can work out the answers to other important questions like: What should the stiffness, height, width and shape or the board you want to buy be. One of the main factors in the decision would be whether you are a freerider, freestyler or an alpiner.
A few general tips about your board:
Its length should be so that when you stand it up on its tail, it should reach you between your chin and nose. Its width should be related to your foot size, so that when you are performing a turn, your feet do not drag in the snow. Its flex is related to your weight. Lighter riders need more flex. Heavier riders will need stiffer boards.
Now to choose the RIGHT board for you!
An All Mountain/Freeride snowboarder has many choices, as this is the most popular style. This type of rider is looking for a board that can be used anywhere on the mountain. These boards are middle ground when compared to the two other styles. For Freestyling/Technical one must look for a flat camber or softer board with more flex to perform tricks with. These boards are also good for beginners. An Alpine/Carve rider wants a longer stiffer board to carve through the mountain snow. These boards are not intended for performing tricks.
Oh! Don’t forget your graphics, brand and price!
Price can vary between 99 to 600USD so it really does depend on what you can afford. Signature series are usually limited editions that carry their own brand signature, but point price boards are out there for the price conscious buyer! A used board is also an option for those on a tight budget! Most used boards ride just as good as the new ones. Just make sure the board is intact, not cracked and doesn’t have a flat camber, as this indicates it has been worn out. Last year’s models will also be relatively cheep, as the board industry has become fashion oriented. This is a great way to get a relatively new model for much less.
Many riders choose their boards based on the graphics on the board! Everyone wants the coolest board with the coolest message. Some companies, like Monson, allow you to design your board yourself. And some boards are really a work of art! There are also woman’s boards with really cool girl designs. However, you should really get the board’s capabilities straight first, and then do the decorating… most manufacturers have the same graphics available in many types of boards and all sizes and stiffness, so do not worry.
Wait! Don’t buy! Rent first! - learn what is right for you before making the investment in your very own board!
Where should you buy?
If you’re looking for new gear check out DogFunk and ExtremeGear
For used boards my recommendation is ebay.
Well, we have tried to cover the basics here so we hope you are more informed.
Happy snowboarding!
