Snowboarding 101

Nov 14th, 2009 | By coolbiking | Category: Snowboard

By Matt Banks

Intro
I can only assume you are reading this because you have decided to try snowboarding. Congratulations, you’re already off on the right foot. As with any activity that involves risk, it is always very important to understand what you are getting in to. Before you rush off to buy your own board, there are a few things you should know.

Style
Determining your style is the single most important aspect of buying a snowboard. If your board isn’t suited to your style, your experience will be less than stellar. There are two primary types of snowboarding that the beginner should consider.

All Mountain – This style of snowboarding is for the majority of casual snowboarders. If you just want to ride the mountain and stick to the trails, this is most likely your style. All Mountain boarders can range from casual downhill types to off piste knuckle draggers.
Park/Freestyle – Park boarders are the ones you see flying high and riding the rails in the terrain parks. This is not a recommended starting point for beginners. It can be very dangerous and difficult. It’s a popular wintertime activity for summer skateboarders as well.

Length
Once you’ve determined what type of rider you will be, choosing a board length is much easier. Boards are all measured in standard centimeters and typically in the name of the board (a Rome Anthem 154 is 54cm tall). Many shops will tell you exactly what length you should have based on your height. Just about at chin level is a standard size. While this can be an accurate idea, it is usually best to factor in a few other things.

What kind of snow will you be on – If you are a Midwest snowboarder, you will never see the feet-deep powder of the west coast, Rockies or north eastern slopes. If you’re riding on man-made snow or very shallow snow you will want a shorter board. A longer one will be very hard to control on shallow snow.
How much control do you have – If you are new, and I’m assuming you are, you will not want a board that is too long. The longer the board, the harder it is to control.
What is your style – If you are going to be shredding the terrain park, you will want a shorter, quicker board. If you are riding on the mountain, you will want a longer board, which offers more stability.

Width
Another big factor in choosing a board is width. Most standard boards support up to a size 10.5 or 11 foot. Above that, a wide board is generally preferred. With snowboard boots on, the toe and heel should extend ¼ to ½ inch over the edge of the board. This allows the boarder to control turning and braking much more easily. If the toe and heel extend too far, however, toe drag can occur. Generally, this causes the boarder to crash. If you do hang over too far, fear not. Most snowboard companies produce wide versions of their boards.

Flex
Flex is how still the board is with the weight of the rider. This is one factor that is mostly preferential. Softer boards, ones that flex more, are preferred for riding in deep powder. Stiffer boards allow a more precise ride and work well in the terrain park or in shallow snow. Weight also plays a factor. A heavier rider will want a stiffer board or the ride will feel very sloppy.

Tips

Always rent before you buy. This is the best way to test snowboarding equipment. Many places will even allow you to test a certain type of board before you purchase. You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, would you?
Lessons. They are a must have. If you don’t learn the right way to snowboard, you could put yourself at risk for injury or even put others at risk. It is important to know what you are doing before you hit the slopes.
Always wear a helmet. No matter who you ask, every snowboarder has had a crash in which serious injury was prevented by a helmet or they got hurt because they weren’t wearing one. You will crash. You should protect your noodle.
Buy at your level. Put simply, spend your money wisely. You don’t need a $1000 board your first day. In fact, it will probably hamper your ability to learn. Higher prices typically mean the board is more advanced. On the other side of the coin, buying a cheap no-name board or a damaged used board can also ruin the experience. Nearly all board shops have great deals during the off-season. It’s a perfect time to pick up a nice board for less.

Snowboarding Gear 101

–About–

By Matt Banks – Matt Banks snowboards and surfs in North County, S.D. and writes for BoardRiderLounge. Visit the Lounge to find great deals on women’s snowboard gear.

Source: Cool Biking Zone – Your source for great cycling, sports and fitness articles!

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