Buying your first snowboard involves understanding a few key factors to ensure you get a board that's easy to learn on and helps you progress quickly.
Purchasing a beginner snowboard focuses on finding a board that is forgiving, easy to turn, and sized appropriately for your weight and height, leaning towards characteristics that promote stability and control at lower speeds.
Key Factors When Choosing a Beginner Snowboard
Selecting your first snowboard is exciting! Here's what to consider to make the best choice:
Snowboard Length
One of the most crucial aspects for a beginner is choosing the right length. The general guideline for beginners is to select a board that comes up somewhere between your collarbone and your nose when standing upright. However, there's a bit more nuance:
- General Beginners: If you're a beginner, aim for the shorter end of your size range. A shorter board is typically easier to maneuver, initiate turns, and control, which is essential when you're just starting out.
- Riding Style: If you anticipate mostly riding all mountain, including powder and groomed runs (piste), then aiming for the longer end of your size range can provide better stability and speed as you progress.
- Weight Considerations: If you are above average weight for your height, aiming for a slightly longer snowboard than typically recommended can offer better control and prevent the board from feeling unstable or 'washed out' under pressure.
Ultimately, length charts found online or in stores provide a good starting point, but considering your weight, height, and intended riding style (even as a beginner) helps fine-tune the decision.
Snowboard Flex
Flex refers to how stiff or soft a snowboard is. For beginners, a softer flex board is generally recommended.
- Why soft flex?
- Easier to turn: A softer board requires less effort to bend and initiate turns.
- More forgiving: It's less likely to punish small errors, reducing the chance of catching an edge.
- Better for low speeds: It's more stable and easier to control at beginner speeds.
Stiffer boards are typically preferred by advanced riders for stability at high speeds and aggressive carving or jumps. Stick to a soft to medium-soft flex for your first board.
Snowboard Shape and Profile
The shape and profile (camber/rocker) also impact how a board rides.
- Shape:
- Twin Shape: Symmetrical nose and tail. Great for learning because it rides the same forward or backward.
- Directional Twin: Slightly different nose and tail, often with a centered stance. Still versatile but might feel slightly better riding forward.
- For beginners, either a twin or directional twin is a good choice.
- Profile:
- Rocker (Reverse Camber): The board curves up away from the snow between the bindings. Very forgiving, reduces edge catches, and is easy to maneuver. Excellent for learning.
- Flat: Lies flat between the bindings. Offers a good balance of stability and ease of turning.
- Hybrid: Combines elements of rocker and camber. Some hybrid profiles are designed to be beginner-friendly, offering catch-free edges with some stability.
- Traditional camber is less common for pure beginner boards as it can be 'catchy'.
Many beginner boards feature rocker or hybrid profiles designed to make learning easier and less frustrating.
Snowboard Width
Ensure the board width (specifically at the waist) is appropriate for your boot size.
- If your boots hang too far over the edges (toe or heel drag), you risk catching an edge during turns.
- Most boards come in standard or wide versions. Check a size chart or ask for advice if you have larger boots (typically men's size 10.5/11 US and up).
Where to Buy Your First Snowboard
You have a few options:
- Local Snowboard Shop: This is often the best option for beginners. Experienced staff can help you determine the right size, flex, and shape based on your specific needs, weight, height, and local conditions. You can also see and feel the boards.
- Online Retailers: Offer a wider selection and potentially better prices. However, you miss out on personalized advice and the ability to physically inspect the board. Reputable online retailers often have detailed guides and customer service available to help.
Consider Renting First
If you're unsure about committing to a purchase, renting equipment at the resort or a local shop is a great way to try out different board styles and sizes before making a final decision. This hands-on experience can be invaluable.
By considering these factors – especially getting the length right based on the guidance to aim for the shorter end of your size range as a standard beginner, while adjusting slightly longer for all-mountain intentions or higher weight – you'll be well on your way to finding a snowboard that makes learning fun and helps you progress confidently on the mountain.
