Snowboarding came a long way from a humble surfer to a well-known extreme sport. A snowboard is just a wooden board with bindings used to ride in the snow. Freestyle and big air are some of the snowboarding styles, and each one requires a specific set of characteristics from a snowboard.
Snowboarding before meant standing next to a board. As a rule of thumb, the board is a good fit if the snowboard’s nose lies next to your chin. This simple test gives a rough idea for the rider when selecting a board. However, as the sport evolves, factors such as dimensions, material, and shape each play an essential role in determining the ride.
Style
How you intend to ride will be the most critical factor in choosing the right snowboard style for you. There are five types of snowboards according to style, namely: All-mountain, freestyle, freeride, powder, and split board. All-mountain snowboards are the go-to boards if you are still unsure about what ride you want. They are the most versatile in any terrain, which is why most borders opt to have an all-mountain snowboard.
Freestyle boards are lighter and more flexible to enable the rider to execute tricks easier. On the other hand, freeride boards are much stiffer to endure harsher, ungroomed snow. Lastly, powder boards are best for fresh, deep snow, and split boards are designed for backcountry riding.
Length and width
Once you have determined your riding style and shape, now is the right time to take out the measuring tape and weighing scale. Snowboard size charts make life easier by giving an ideal range of the snowboard length based on the rider’s height and weight. When it comes to width, your snowboard boots should slightly hang over the edges of the snowboard. Too much hang might cause you to drag your feet on the snow, and no hang will make handling difficult.
Shape
Riding style determines the outcome of the ride, and shape makes this outcome happen. Directional boards are primarily meant for riding in one direction and are best for high speeds. True twins are symmetrical in both function and construction. You can ride an authentic twin board on either side and experience no difference in performance – these boards are best for tricks and freestyle riding.
Directional twins are the lovechild of the directional and accurate twin board. These may be made with a symmetrical shape and directional core or with a directional body and symmetrical core. Directional twins are two boards in one, which makes them highly versatile, fitting to all-mountain riding.
Construction
The construction and quality of the board will determine its longevity and how it will hold up to its intended performance. The base is a critical component of the board and is traditionally made from P-Tex. Extruded bases are inexpensive but glide harder over snow. On the other hand, a more expensive sintered base is lighter and will glide easier but requires regular waxing.
There is no harm in looking after other characteristics such as the board’s camber and flex given these points. Snowboarding is already a dangerous sport, and using the wrong board will make it even more dangerous. Always make sure to buy snowboarding equipment from tested and authentic dealers.
