When heading out for your first day of riding, it is essential to find a snowboard that corresponds with your physical dimensions. While a snowboard that's too long will hinder your maneuverability, a snowboard that's too short will decrease your speed capabilities. Your body weight and riding style are key factors to consider when choosing a snowboard.
Fitting Test
When choosing your first snowboard, there is a simple fitting test you can use to determine the appropriate length. Hold the snowboard in an upright position with the tail touching the floor. Keep your chin parallel to the floor while performing this fitting test. Pull the board close to your chest to compare its length to your height. According to the snowboarding specialists at REI, the rounded nose or tip of the snowboard should sit somewhere between your nose and chin.
Body Weight
A board that cannot support your body weight will cause your edges to catch in the snow during turns and maneuvers. Longer snowboards allow riders with an above average body weight to maintain a balanced stance while traversing the mountain slope. According to the Shred-O-Pedia sizing guide, riders with a body weight of 170 to 200 lbs. should choose a snowboard that features a length of 160 cm. These larger snowboards generally have an extended waist width for increased stability.
Freestyle
To accommodate the myriad of riding styles, the snowboard is offered in a variety of lengths. If you plan to spend your time riding the obstacles in the terrain park, choose a snowboard that features a shorter length. During the fitting test, the nose of the freestyle snowboard should sit just below your chin. This compact design helps to decrease the overall weight of your setup, making it easier to perform aerial flips and rotations.
Powder/Downhill
If you prefer to venture out past the confines of the mountain resort, choose a snowboard that features an elongated design. The extended deck of the snowboard allows you to stay afloat in deep deposits of powdered snow. When performing the sizing test, the tip of the snowboard should sit almost parallel with your nose. A slightly longer deck remains ideal for downhill racing, as it helps to decrease the amount of vibrations at breakneck speeds.
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