Topic 7: Snowboards for beginners

The best snowboard for you

 
It can be hard to choose the right snowboard regardless of your skill level when it comes to
choosing a board. Whether you are buying your first snowboard or adding a new one to your
quiver, making the right decision will get you further than making the wrong decision
because making the wrong choice may result in your spending more time in the lodge than
on the mountain. Our goal is to help you find the best riding option for your needs.  
There are a few important considerations to make when selecting a snowboard:

 Snowboard type
 Camber profile
 Shape
 Length
 Flex pattern
 Width
 Effective Edge/Sidecut Radius
 
Men’s snowboards | Women’s snowboards

WHAT KIND OF SNOWBOARD DO YOU HAVE?

When buying a snowboard, the type of snowboard is one of the most important factors to
consider. Each type of snowboard is designed for a specific riding style. For beginners, a
basic rule of thumb is to decide what your realistic ambitions are for future advancement,
and then select a board accordingly. There are several popular categories, including:

Ski or snowboards of this type are ideal for a broad range of riding styles; whether you want
to ride groomers, slash powder, or cruise the terrain park, these types of snowboards tend
to cater to the majority without focusing too heavily in any one area. A variety of skill levels
are also suitable for all-mountain freestyle boards, depending on the flex pattern.

Snowboards designed specifically for freeride tend to be more stable at high speeds, deep
snow, steep terrain, and are generally unconcerned with hitting rails and jumps at the park.
Riders of intermediate to expert level tend to prefer freeride boards. Freeride boards are
also available for less experienced riders.

Boards that are freestyle are usually inspired by the desire to catch air, slide down rails, and
be more fun. Freestyle boards with softer materials may be better suited to rails, while
boards with stiffer materials may be better suited to jumps. Freestyle boards, on the other
hand, are designed for those who enjoy snowboarding creatively and like to occasionally
wander through terrain parks.