Snowboarding gear is sometimes hard to understand. There are many different types of boards, boots, bindings and other accessories that can make it difficult for beginners to know what they need. The good news is that you really only need a few basic things before you head down your first slopes.
Read on for an easy guide that will help you better understand the different elements of snowboarding gear and what you need to begin your new fun winter hobby.
You really only need two items before you head down your first run: a board and boots. The board doesn’t have to be anything fancy, as long as it fits your body type and with the right equipment you will be ready to hit the slopes.
Many people make the mistake of buying “snowboard boots” when they are really just skiing boots. Snowboarding boots are stiffer and have a different shape that is meant specifically for riding, although some skiers do use them as well. Make sure that you get snowboarding boots rather than skiing boots. Read on for more information about each item.
Table of Contents
Snowboard
You should be able to find a snowboard at your local sporting goods store or online retailer, like Amazon.com. They usually come in three different styles: twin tip, directional and shaped tips. For first time riders you should probably stay away from the twin-tip boards, mainly because they are hard to control for beginners. You should also avoid off-set boards, which are good if you plan on taking some jumps but not crucial for first timers.
The other two styles should be fine for your first slopes. The directional boards are longer in the nose, which gives it more speed and better tracking through turns. Shaped boards have a wider nose and a narrower tail. The wider nose helps with balance and makes it easier to stay up on the board, while the narrow tail increases speed.
When you head out looking for your first snowboard, try to find one that has an easily removable binding. This way you can use the same board for skiing as well as snowboarding and will save you money.
Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots aren’t anything like your typical hiking boots, especially if you are used to skiing boots. You can usually tell that they are snowboard boots by the inside of the boot. Snowboarding boots have lots of cushioning to support your foot, which is important because it absorbs shock well.
Snowboarding boots also have a soft sole that easily flexes with your foot. Skiing boots are stiff, which makes it difficult to turn and maneuver on the slopes. Snowboarding boots should be easy to put on and take off as well, another thing skiing doesn’t do well.
You can buy snowboard boots at most sporting good stores or online retailers like Amazon.com. You can usually get a decent pair for about $90 – $150 USD.
Snowboard bindings
Snowboard bindings are usually the most expensive piece of snowboarding gear that you will need to purchase. They aren’t too hard to put on, but you will still need someone to help you get it strapped in correctly.
Snowboard bindings have a few different elements that you need to pay attention to when buying new ones. To start, look at the size of the binding and make sure it fits your boot. You will also want to take note of the highback’s ability to pivot, which helps with turns. Another important element is the baseplate, since it attaches to the board and gives it support.
Snowboard bindings come in two different styles: step-in and strap-in. The majority of snowboarders go with a strap-in binding, which offers more control than the step-in style. The downside is that you need someone to help you get your foot into the right position.
The step-in bindings are more convenient, but they don’t have as much control. You can’t use a strap for your back foot with this type of binding, so you will have to adjust it each time you put on your boots.
If you plan on hitting the slopes a lot and getting good at snowboarding, you should get a high-quality binding. It will last you longer and work better, which means more time to practice your riding skills and less time fixing broken bindings. You can get a good pair of snowboard bindings for about $50 – $100 USD.
Snowboard goggles
Snowboard goggles are very similar to skiing goggles, although they do have a few small differences. For one, they are made to fit over your helmet, which is important if you plan on taking any tough jumps or riding through trees. You can get by without wearing a helmet for normal cruising and casual snowboarding, but it is recommended that all riders wear them while taking more difficult trails.
Snowboard goggles also have a special lens that is made for low-light conditions. The lens allows 80% of the light to go through, which helps with visibility on cloudy days.
You can find snowboard goggles at most sporting goods stores or online retailers like Amazon.com. You can usually get a good pair for about $50 – $100 USD.
Snowboard gloves
You will need to buy a pair of snowboarding gloves if you plan on hitting the slopes. For one thing, they will help protect your hands from injury, which is very important since you are going to be falling down a lot. But they also have other uses as well.
Snowboard gloves have special grips on the palms and fingers that give you better control of the board. Some gloves even have special clips to keep your lift pass visible so you don’t lose it.
Snowboard gloves are usually made with waterproof fabric, because snowboarding is done in the snow. You won’t need them if you plan on riding at a summer resort, but they will help you out on colder days.
You can find snowboard gloves around $20 – $40 USD on a good pair of gloves.
Base and Mid Layers
Base and mid layers are important for two reasons. First, they will keep you warm on the slopes during the winter. This is especially true if you plan on snowboarding at higher elevations where it gets colder. Having multiple layers will help trap your body heat so you don’t get cold as fast.
Secondly, base and mid layers work as insulation. They keep the cold air from getting to your skin and keep you much warmer. This is especially important if you fall, since the snow can be very cold when it comes in direct contact with your body.
You should have a base layer, a middle layer and an outer shell for riding at higher elevations. Base layers are usually worn by themselves or as an undergarment. It is a tight shirt that provides warmth and prevents chafing.
Middle layers are worn over the base layer and work to trap heat in your body. These can be purchased as full-body outfits or just jackets, pants and ski masks.
The outer shells protect you from the snow and wind. They are usually waterproof and windproof, but they can also be insulated or not. This depends on how cold it is where you plan on riding your snowboard.
Snowboard Jacket and Pants
You should always wear a jacket and pants while snowboarding. Jeans are definitely not the best option, since they won’t protect you from the cold or keep your legs warm. Instead, plan on getting some insulated pants and waterproof/breathable fabric jackets.
Snowboard jackets come in many different styles. You can get parkas, full-length down coats and tactical jackets. Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to do some research before buying one.
Snowboard pants are usually insulated with fleece or thick polyester lining on the inside. This will help keep your legs warm even if they fall into a snowbank. You can also buy pants without insulation, but they will only protect you from the cold for a short time.
Snowboard boots and bindings should be purchased separately from other snowboarding equipment like boards and jackets. This is because snowboard boots are different than normal sneakers. They have stiffer rubber soles to provide more stability with your board and can help prevent knee injuries.
Snowboard bindings are the straps and buckles attached to snowboard boots that make it possible for you to ride a snowboard. They provide a connection between your feet and the board so that when you move your foot, the snowboard moves up and down with it.
Snowboard Helmet
Snowboarding helmets are designed to protect your head from injury on the slopes. They have hard outer shells that can take direct hits, and they usually have thick plastic or foam linings inside to cushion impacts with the ground.
It is rare that you might find a snowboard helmet with earmuffs built in. Instead, look for one that has thick, soft ear padding or a full-face mask to protect your face and ears from the elements.
Snowboard Socks
You should always wear socks while snowboarding. Cotton isn’t the best option, since it absorbs moisture and won’t dry out. Instead, you should look for thicker socks that are made with synthetic fibers or wool.
These will help keep your feet warm even when they get wet. You can also buy special liner socks that can be worn under thicker socks to prevent them from getting wet. If your feet get too cold, you run the risk of frostbite and losing toes or fingers.
Snowboard Gear Bag
You should always keep all your gear in a single bag when you’re not using it for riding. This makes it much easier to carry everything back home after you’re done with your day on the slopes.
Often times you can get a large backpack or duffel bag that has separate compartments for separating out pieces of your snowboarding outfit. This makes it easier to quickly pack everything up and head home for the night.
FAQ About Snowboarding Gear
What equipment do you need to play snowboarding?
Snowboarding is a fun winter sport that requires several pieces of equipment to play. You can’t just grab any old board and ride down the mountain. Instead, you need a special “snowboard” that is shaped differently from a skateboard or surfboard.
You also need special boots, bindings and other accessories like helmets and face masks.
Is snowboarding gear expensive?
Snowboarding equipment can be expensive, especially when you first start playing the game. A complete snowboarding outfit will usually cost over $1,000 and could cost as much as $3,000.
How do you gear up for snowboarding?
You have to be ready for a lot of different conditions when you play snowboard. For this reason, it’s best to get several different types of gear that can be worn together or alone depending on the weather conditions.
There are different sets of snowboarding gear for each type of winter weather. These should include a jacket, snow pants, gloves and a hat or headband. You will also need a special pair of insulated boots to keep your feet warm.
What should a beginner wear snowboarding?
A beginner should wear a snowboarding outfit that is relatively easy to move around in and isn’t too bulky. You don’t want layers and layers of clothes that you constantly have to take off or put on when playing snowboard.
Instead, get a thinner outfit with insulation between layers to help you stay warm. This will also keep your movements more flexible, so you can focus on learning how to snowboard.
What does a beginner snowboarder need?
A beginner will need several different pieces of equipment to play snowboard. First, you’ll probably want a board that is about the same size as you. This makes it easier to maneuver and stay balanced while playing the game.
You don’t want a board that is too small, because you could hurt yourself by falling on it repeatedly. You also need a good pair of boots to keep your feet snugly fastened to the board.
Beginners should also invest in a good pair of gloves that are designed to keep your hands warm. These can be laced up at the wrist to keep snow out and keep your hands dry.
To protect your face, you should wear a helmet that is comfortable and doesn’t fog up when you start sweating. You should also get a pair of goggles to keep snow out of your eyes.
A beginner should also invest in several different types of clothing so they can change depending on the weather conditions. This includes hats, scarves and sweaters along with a good pair of pants made from synthetic materials.
What should I wear if I don’t have snow gear snowboarding?
If you’re not wearing the right gear, it’s easy to get frostbite and freeze while playing snowboard. You should invest in a good snowboarding outfit as soon as you start playing the game.
While there are some stores that let you rent gear for one day, it’s usually better to buy your own snowboarding outfit. You can then play in any type of weather condition or location since you know that everything will fit together.
How many layers should you wear snowboarding?
It’s essential to wear several different layers when snowboarding. This will help you stay warm but stay flexible enough to move around easily while playing the game.
You should wear a thin layer of synthetic material designed to keep your skin warm. Then, put on several additional layers of clothing made from natural materials that can absorb your sweat and keep you dry.
Your gloves should be made of a material that doesn’t compress when you put pressure on it. Thinner gloves are usually better for snowboarding since they don’t limit your movement.
Each time you start sweating, it’s best to take off one layer of clothing, so you won’t get too hot. Overheating is dangerous since it can cause you to sweat too much and make you cold when the wind starts blowing.
What type of clothing is best for snowboarding?
Your clothing is one of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to playing snowboard. You need a good outfit that you can put on quickly and take off just as fast.
You should wear a synthetic material because it dries much faster than cotton or other natural materials. This will keep you from getting too cold if the wind picks up. Always make sure to invest in a good winter jacket that can resist the wind and keep you warm.
