Snowboarding is an exciting and entertaining winter sport that sets itself apart from traditional skiing, in part, by the gear used. Snowboards, boots and bindings, helmets, and other equipment are specifically designed for the sport. Whether you are new to snowboarding, or an experienced rider, properly fitting, using and caring for your gear is essential for an enjoyable and safe boarding experience.
Renting Gear
When first starting out snowboarding, consider renting your gear first. Renting gives you a feel for the sport before you spend a lot of money on equipment, which can be expensive. Also, take into account how frequently you will go snowboarding. For the casual rider, renting may be a better solution than purchasing gear. Long-term leases are frequently available that allow you to rent the same equipment for an entire season. Leasing works especially well for growing children, who may need different sized equipment within a single season.
Snowboards
Size your snowboard properly to provide the best fit and the highest level of control. The waist of the board should be wide enough to accommodate your foot size, with the heel and toe of your boot meeting the edges of the board. Choose a board length that will accommodate your weight. For the best possible ride, properly wax the base of your board.
Boots
Select a pair of boots that fits comfortably and allows for proper flexibility. Softer boots are more forgiving and better for beginners, while harder boots are often used for racing or high-speed snowboarding and tend to be favored by more experienced riders. Because women usually have narrower feet, boots specifically designed for women are often more accommodating than "all-purpose" boots.
Bindings
If you plan to use strap-in bindings, choose bindings that have large ratchets on the toe and heel straps. These allow you to strap in more easily. For step-in bindings, select a system that you can step into quickly and easily, with release mechanisms and insertion points that do not clog easily with snow buildup while riding. Also remember that, unlike ski bindings, which come loose when you fall, snowboard bindings remain attached to your feet. Learning to fall properly in snowboard bindings is an important step to prevent fall injuries.
Helmet
Strap on a helmet. A fall or impact while snowboarding can result in a serious head injury without one. Your helmet should fit comfortably and snugly on your head. A helmet that is too tight or loose provides much less protection. When wearing your helmet, adjust the chin strap so that it is also snug but not too tight.
Carrying Your Snowboard
To carry your snowboard, use one of three basic techniques. The first, and perhaps the most common, is to carry your snowboard under one arm by the edge with the bindings facing out. This carry allows you to balance the board in your hand. In another method, place the base of the board across the small of your back and carry it with both hands. This carry distributes the weight across two hands, making it less tiring. When traveling longer distances, you may choose to drag your snowboard. Use a short leash to glide it along on the snow.
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