Snowboarding is a fun outdoor activity that can help keep your family active during the cold winter months. Not only will your family enjoy a challenging recreational activity, but you'll also get in a good workout as you glide along the slopes. To keep your kids safe and maximize their chances for success, take the time to choose snowboards that fit their bodies and skill levels. A well-fitting board helps your child stay balanced and can reduce frustration as he masters this sport.
Step 1
Work with your child to determine if she needs a regular or goofy board. On a regular snowboard, the rider's right foot acts as the lead foot, while the left foot leads on a goofy-style board. If your child has ever surfed or skateboarded, she probably has a pretty good idea of which stance feels most comfortable. If not, have the child slide across the floor in her socks. The foot she places in front during this slide will tell you her natural stance.
Step 2
Ask your child about his snowboarding goals. Some kids may be excited to learn jumps in the terrain park, while others just want to speed down the slopes. Focus on freestyle boards if your child plans to ride the rails, or all-mountain boards for downhill riding. The Children's Hospital in Aurora, Colorado, recommends all-mountain boards for beginners, as the design of these boards makes it easier to balance and stay upright.
Step 3
Buy boots first, or take your child's current ski or snowboard boots with you when you shop. Having the boots along allows you to fit the board to the boots. The staff at your local ski shop or sporting goods store can help you with boot sizing and selection.
Step 4
Size a snowboard by holding it upright next to your child. Boys' Life recommends buying a snowboard that falls between your child's chin and forehead. For absolute beginners, choose a board on the smaller end of this range to maximize control and handling.
Step 5
Have your child step onto each snowboard while wearing her boots to test the width. According to Boys' Life, the toes and heels of the child's boots should sit flush with the edges of the board. They should not hang over the edges, as this could reduce speed or cause injury.
Step 6
Look for strap-style bindings. Strap-style bindings offer the most secure fit, while older step-in bindings may not stay in place. When choosing bindings, test your child's boots to see if they fit within the bindings. Have your child buckle himself into and out of the bindings to make sure they're easy to operate.
Tips and Warnings
- Buy a helmet to go with your child's new snowboard, and insist that she wear it during every ride.
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