Due to the abundance of choices, you may feel overwhelmed when selecting your snowboarding gear. Industry professionals rate snowboarding gear based on comfort and performance capabilities. Snowboard companies offer gear in a variety of sizes to accommodate beginner, intermediate and expert riders. Properly fitting gear should be snug yet comfortable.
Snowboards
The lightweight design of the snowboard can adapt to numerous riding terrains. Freestyle riders utilize a compact board for increased maneuverability during aerial tricks that involve flips and spins. The freestyle snowboard features a twin tip design that allows you to land in a backward position. If you prefer to glide through the powdered snow of a backcountry trail, opt for a freeride snowboard. The wide nose of the freeride board prevents you from sinking into the snow. Top-rated snowboards feature an internal wooden core for increased strength.
Helmets
The snowboarding helmet is specially designed to shield your skull in the event of high-impact crashes and collisions. Snowboarding helmets often feature an outer shell constructed of fiberglass or carbon fiber. The interior of the helmet is lined with shock-absorbent foam pads for increased protection. According to the 2011 Transworld Snowboarding Gear Guide, top-rated snowboard helmets feature a ventilation system built in to the outer shell. Certain models of the snowboard helmet feature an audio system that allows you to listen to music while riding.
Pants
Snowboarding pants are often designed for specific riding conditions. A common type of snowboarding pant, known as the shell pant, does not feature an internal layer of insulation. Wear shell pants when riding in warm weather conditions. The breathable construction will allow the mountain air to absorb your perspiration. Insulated pants should be worn while riding in frigid conditions. According to Snowboards.net Buying Guide, insulated pants feature a windproof outer shell made from woven nylon and polyester.
Jackets
Snowboarding jackets feature a versatile design that can adapt to numerous types of riding conditions. As well as having a breathable design, snowboarding jackets often feature an elastic snow skirt. The snow skirt fits snugly around your waist and prevents snow from entering through the bottom of the jacket. Many snowboard jackets feature a removable hood for increased comfort. To prevent moisture from seeping through the fabric, the seams of the snowboarding jacket are covered with waterproof tape.
Boots
While entry-level boots feature a simplistic design, boots made for advanced boarders are equipped with a number of technical features. Entry-level boots feature conventional string laces as well as flexible design. High-end boots are equipped with a specialized retention system that features an adjustment knob. Rotating the adjustment knob clockwise increases ankle support. Advanced boots feature a rigid design that helps to increase board feel and response. Compared to men's snowboarding boots, women's models feature a lower cuff.
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