*Buying a Snowboard*

So...You've Decided to Buy a Board?

There are at least a hundred snowboarding companies out there competing for your purchase, so it is definitely in YOUR best interest to know what you are buying, and know what is best for YOU & your riding needs.  This guide will hopefully give you an idea on how to get started on finding your perfect snowboard.

What is Your Riding Style?

There are three different riding styles, and it is best to try to determine which one best describes yourself.

• All Mountain Riders-Tend to enjoy the entire mountain, from the smooth groomers to the puffy backside & everything else!
• Freeriders-Tend to look for anything that provides speed.
• Freestylers-Usually prefer to stay in the terrain parks & the half-pipe.

What is Your Skill Level?

Don't lie to yourself on this one!  If you aren't very experienced with boarding, it is time to be honest.  Otherwise, you'll end up wasting money on a board that you can't ride!

Also, try not to buy a board based on the graphics!  Trust me, when your boarding, you won't notice them much anyways!

• Beginner-This is your first time, maybe have taken a lesson or two, and have only snowboarded a few times. 
• You will want a board that is soft-flexing, and affordable; something that you will be able to grow out of without a worry.
• Intermediate-You board perhaps 3-5 times a year, but can do the basics (ie turning, maybe a few tricks). 
• You will want a versatile board that will offer a change in scenery, and will take you to the next level in boarding.
• Advanced-YOU CAN RIDE & YOU KNOW IT! 
• You will want an extra-stiff board, which will offer lots of pop & high speed capability.

Now...The Basics of Buying a Board

Now that you know somewhat of what you are looking for (ie the type of board you need based on your riding prefences), let's look at some of the basics of buying a board.

Your Gender & Size

Many boards now are designed to accomodate the physical differences of gender, size & style.  Since women tend to be shorter than men on average, and have shorter legs & smaller feet, women most likely should look for a board that is softer, lighter, narrower & shorter.  However, taller females might need a board that isn't quite as narrow, but still light.  This goes for children too!

Width

Board width is directly linked to your foot size.  Riders with small feet need a narrower board, and riders with big feet need a wider board.

The best way to find the correct board width is to stand on a board that is flat on the ground.  Strap or step into your bindings, or put your feet just how you would have them when you are riding.  Now, when you are snowboarding, your boots should be flush or slightly over the edges of the snowboard.  If your toes & heels don't come close to the edge, you won't be able to turn properly.

Board width is measured in either centimeters or millimeters, and can be found in the board's specifications under waiste width.

Length

Normally, shorter boards are easier to maneuver, while longer boards are more stable & take much more energy to control.  In general, a board that stands between your chin & nose is considered a good length, but your weight is important because you need to be able to flex the board to turn.

• Short Boards (below chin) are good for park & pipe riding.  They are easy to maneuver, but harder to control on steeps.
• Medium Boards (chin to nose) are good for intermediate riders.  They handle a variety of terrain, from park to steeps.

• Long boards (above nose) are good for advanced riders who want to ride deep carves in deep powder at high speeds.

Flex

If you are a beginner or prefer snowboard parks/park riding, you should consider a more flexible board.  A soft board turns much easier at slow speeds, however they will vibrate on long, fast runs.  If you are more experienced, I'd recommend a stiffer board to help control turns at high speeds.

Ok...You are Ready to Buy!

If you are a beginner, even an intermediate rider, or somebody looking for something on a tight budget, a used board is a great option!  Normally these boards ride just as well as a new board would.  Make sure, however that you are not buying a cracked or broken board!  Though these do make excellent decorations in any home, they don't ride very well, and aren't too safe (especially for a new rider!).

*Now that you've got a board, don't forget the bindings & the boots!*

Me & my (other-other) pride & joy: my board!:

*Best of Luck to You & Happy Riding!*