With the holiday season approaching, now felt like the right time to help those with snowboarders in their lives. Help them to choose the best gifts for their snowboarding brother, aunt, partner, daughter, neighbor, friend, 2nd cousin twice removed..... whoever that special someone may be that likes to spend their spare time hurtling down a mountain side on a plank of wood.
This gifts for snowboarders guide is arranged into categories to help you find the best gift for your needs and those categories can be found by following the quick navigation links below or scrolling down.
Best of luck in choosing the right gift!
BEST GIFTS FOR SNOWBOARDERS UNDER $40
Got a small budget? You can still get something super useful for your snowboarder. The gifts below range from anything from $14 to $50.
#1: Socks
Socks are temporary, unfortunately, and this is even more so the case when snowboarding. With the rigors of snowboarding, socks only tend to last a couple of seasons at best.
So, they are one of those gifts that you can't go wrong with. Even if they have enough socks now, it won't be long until they're grateful to have a hole-less pair waiting for them in their sock draw.
I know, I know socks are the stereotypical dud gift, but in this case they're actually usually appreciated. I know I always do, when I get these as gifts.
But don't get just any old socks. Snowboard specific socks are designed and padded in the right places to wear with snowboard boots - and to keep the rider warm - so get something specific. Some good examples include:
#2: Beanie
A nice simple gift that most snowboarders will appreciate.
Even though most riders these days ride with a helmet (myself included and highly recommended), it's still good to have a beanie (or toque, if you're in Canada) when you're walking around the resort - or just anywhere during winter to be honest!
And, if your snowboarder is anything like me, they probably misplace their beanie's all the time - or they like to wear different ones at different times, so extra beanies are never a bad idea.
#3: Wax
Wax will never not be needed. It's something that has to be done regularly, so even if your snowboarder has wax already, they'll need more at some point.
First make sure they do their own waxing. If they get it done at the resort or in store, then they may not have much use for it, unless they've been talking about doing it themselves at some point (in which case you might want to get them a waxing kit - see below).
You can check out the following if you want to learn more about what type of wax they might want:
>>Choosing the Best Wax for your Snowboard
But you can't go wrong with an all-temperature wax like this one.
#4: Waxing Kit
Maybe your snowboarder has been using your clothing iron to wax their board, or maybe they've been talking about doing their own waxing.
In either case, a waxing kit would make a great gift.
A typical wax kit will come with a scraper, a waxing iron, wax (often a couple of different types of wax), a nylon brush and a horsehair brush - and will often come with a convenient bag to store everything in. Something like this is a good bet.
Or if you want to get really fancy, and they have a drill, you could go with something like this - in place of the standard nylon brush and horsehair brush. Makes the job a lot easier. If you're like me and wax a lot of boards, they're a real time and energy saver.
#5: Hand and Toe Warmers
These can be a life saver in really cold conditions. The coldest I've ridden in is -27.4°F (-33°C) and I don't think I would have lasted the whole day without hand and toe warmers.
You don't need to go into this extreme a weather to need them, but if your snowboarder rides in colder temperatures or if they tend to run cold, then hand and toe warmers can be a great way to keep the fingers and toes warmer.
If you feel like they'll need these a lot, then there are also reusable hand and toe warmers you can get, if you want something better for the environment and more economical in the long run.
#6: Glove Liners
Another way to keep your hands warmer is to use glove liners (aka inner gloves) underneath your snowboard gloves.
If you get glove liners with media ready finger tips (that work on touchscreens), then these are also great for letting you pull out and use your phone without exposing your skin directly to the cold.
#7: Tiny Tool
Like the multi-tool which is mentioned in the best gifts for travelling snowboarders section below, the tiny tool, or compact tool, or however you want to word it, is great to have when you don't have much space and only need one or two tools with you - e.g. a Phillips screwdriver for adjusting or tightening your bindings.
The tiny tool linked here has a #2 and #3 Phillips screwdriver and a bottle opener.
#8: Flask
These are great if your snowboarder is on a budget and can't afford to buy coffee at the resort. You can make it at home and take it with you.
Some Flasks will keep their coffee hot for up to 12 hours (though in my experience in reality, not that long, but definitely good for a fair few hours if you get a good one). Just right for taking a break and getting that caffeine fix before heading back up the chairlift.
Flasks are also great for those on backcountry excursions who want have access to buy coffee or other hot drinks.
#9: Neck Gaiter
When it gets really cold up there, sometimes a little more warmth is needed and one area that can feel colder than others when the temperatures really drop, and isn't often well covered, is around the neck.
This is where neck gaiters (aka neck warmers) come in. Snowboarding ones often come as part of a face mask or balaclava.
#10: evo gift card
Still really can't decide what to get. Then there's the reliable old gift card. This one could really be under any section, as you can choose the amount you want.
I chose evo as they have the largest amount of snowboarding stock of any store that I know of. And they have the option to send e-gift-cards directly to the recipient (which not all stores do).
If you're in the United States, you can choose between either an e-gift card or a physical gift card. Outside the US, you won't be able to deliver to a non-US address.
#11: PRFO gift card
If you're in Canada then a PRFO gift card is another great option.
Best Gifts for Snowboarders Under $150
If you have a bit more budget, then these gifts might be the way to go.
#12: Snowboarding Gloves
A good pair of gloves is never a bad idea. If you're snowboarder rides a lot and rides hard, then even if they have gloves, a new pair to have on hand when the previous pair inevitable wears out is never a bad thing. I typically go through a pair of gloves every couple of seasons.
Or maybe your snowboarder has gloves but is always complaining about their hands getting wet or cold? A better pair of gloves is just the thing they might need, then.
#13: Base Layers
Base layers can be one of those things that is hard for snowboarders on a budget to buy. They've spent all this money on their gear and now they've got to fork out more for base layers.
While not the most exciting of gifts, they can be a really good addition to any snowboarders arsenal. And another one of those things that doesn't last forever. A good base layer can really add to comfort and warmth and lead to an overall much better experience.
#14: Snowboard Helmet
Safety can't be overemphasized. Particularly when it comes to your head. A good snowboard helmet can be the difference between a bump/scare and a concussion (or worse).
While safety is the primary concern when getting a snowboard helmet - comfort and fit are also important. Learn more about choosing snowboard helmets here.
#15: Snowboard Goggles
Does your snowboarder need new goggles? Do they complain about not being able to see when conditions are darker or the fog has rolled in?
A good pair of snowboard goggles with interchangeable lenses (so you can pick depending on the conditions) is crucial part of any snowboarders gear.
Learn more about choosing snowboard goggles here.
#16: Balance Board
Is your snowboarder determined to get better? Do they dream of snowboarding in the summer and wish they could be doing something to improve in the summer, besides getting stronger/fitter?
Then a balance board trainer might be just what they're after. These things help you to practice and improve your balance in the off season.
#17: Boot and Glove Dryer
There's nothing worse than stinky feet right!
A boot dryer is a nice, easy, convenient way to dry out your boots after a day on the mountain. And you can use them to dry out your gloves too. Do you know what stinks as bad as feet after a while? Your hands.
Not only does drying out your gear help with odors, it also helps with the life of the boot and prevents potential mold.
#18: Bluetooth Helmet Speakers
Noise cancelling earphones or really any earphones can be a bad idea when your snowboarding. You need to be able to hear your surroundings to help keep yourself and others safe up there.
But that doesn't mean you can't listen to music. It just means that you don't want to block out other sounds, while you listen to music.
That's where Bluetooth headphone speakers come in. They enable you to listen to music but still hear the ambient sounds around you. And anyone who's tried to wear earphones under their helmet know that it's not an overly pleasant experience for your ears.
The bonus with these helmet speakers? They also work as a communication system. If you and your fellow snowboarders all have these, then you can use them to communicate where you are on the mountain.
#19: Snowboard Rack
Does your snowboarder have a quiver of boards (more than one)?
Then a snowboard rack might be just what they need to keep their collection tidy, out of the way and safe from damage or rampaging kids or pets!
Best Gifts to Impress
If you've got the budget and you're really looking to get a gift that they'll never forget and will really excite them, then these are some of the things that excite snowboarders the most.
#20: Snowboard
Before you just go out and buy any old snowboard, do some research. This isn't just a good idea, but it's critical if you're going to buy your snowboarder a snowboard.
Snowboards come in all different types and what's best for one person can be completely wrong for another.
That's where we come in at Snowboarding Profiles and what we do best. Help you find the right snowboard.
Now you might need to ask your snowboarder some questions - and this may raise suspicions that you're about to get them an epic gift! But it's better that they suspect your surprise than you getting them the wrong snowboard that they hate and will never ride (except maybe when you're around to try and not offend you).
Check out our snowboard buying guides to learn what type of snowboard will be best and what size you should go for. If you're still stuck, send me a message and I'll help you pick it. You're going to need some specific info about your snowboarder for this one.
#21: Bindings
Just like with the snowboard above, you will need to plan this one well and will need specific knowledge about your snowboarder, so you can make the right choice.
If they don't already have snowboard boots and a board, then this one will be difficult. It's best to know your boots and board, before you decide on bindings.
But if you're snowboarder has been complaining about their bindings or have recently broken them and hasn't replaced them, then this could a super epic gift for them.
Need help picking the best bindings for them? Check out more info here - and again, if you're feeling lost or unsure, send me a message (at the bottom of this post or on another post you're using to research).
#22: Snowboard Boots
Tread even more carefully here. Ideally you want to try on snowboard boots before you buy, so it's best that the giftee is involved for this one. If you want to get them new (or first time) snowboard boots, then you could give them a gift card - or a home made "gift card" that says that the giftee is entitled to a pair of snowboard boots. And then have them help decide.
If you're going to take the plunge on buying snowboard boots, make sure to get enough information about their riding, foot size, etc, so you can make an informed decision. And make sure you do your research. Check out the info here to learn more about choosing snowboard boots.
#23: Snowboard Jacket, Pants or Bibs
This one is a little easier than snowboards, bindings and boots, so long as you have a good idea about your snowboarder's style and size.
But still don't just go out and buy the nearest jacket that you think they'll like the look of and will fit them. There's a few other things that you'll want to consider - like waterproofing, breathability and functionality. Check out our snowboard outerwear buying guides below to help you find the best jacket for your snowboarder.
Same goes for pants and bibs.
Best Gifts for the Travelling Snowboarder
Maybe your snowboarder doesn't live close to a ski resort, so has to fly or travel a long distance to get their closest ski resort. Or maybe they just like to explore new places to snowboard. Either way, these gifts can really help out travelling snowboarders.
#24: Roller Snowboard Bag
Especially if you're travelling by plane, bus or train, etc, it's great to be able to have all your snowboard gear together in one bag.
This is where a snowboard bag - and preferably one with wheels - is pretty much indispensable when setting off on a snowboard trip.
#25: Compact Multi-tool
This one could apply just as easily to backcountry excursions or even just at your local resort. But are great for travelling.
The compactness of these tools* makes them great to carry on your person or in your suitcase or backpack. So when you're in your chalet or hotel or whatever (and don't have the tools you'd usually have at home), getting ready and need to make any running repairs, set your bindings back further for powder days, etc, you have a tool on hand to do it.
And if you're in the backcountry having one of these in your pocket or backpack is essential.
But even on the resort, it can be nice to have this. Not as critical as there are usually tool stations, but still come in handy if you need to make any adjustments or repair anything when you're not anywhere near one of those stations.
If you just need a Phillips #2 and/or Phillips #3 for your bindings, then and you want to go more compact, then take a look at the tool linked to in the Best Gifts for Snowboarders under $40 section above. The tool linked in this section is pocketable, but if you want it lighter/smaller, then the smaller tall in the other section might be your best bet, if you don't need all the tools on this one.
* Note that this Dakine BC Tool linked does have a #3 Phillips (which is what you need for bindings screws) but beware of the "Dakine Fidget Tool" which does not have a #3 Phillips screwdriver - it has a #2 Phillips and the #3 is a pozidrive and won't work properly on bindings screws.
#26: Portable Power Bank
Again this one could have gone int he backcountry section below. But wherever you are it can come in handy to have a battery pack. Phones tend to go through battery faster when you're in the cold, so having a portable power bank that you can use to charge your phone on the go can be really handy to have.
And when it comes to backcountry excursions it can sometimes be crucial.
#27: Action Camera
Certainly not necessary, and again something you could put in a number of sections in this gift guide. But a great thing option to have something like a Go Pro*, especially if your snowboarder is outgoing and likes to be in front of camera.
But also maybe they just like to get footage of where they're riding - either to show others, just to look at for themselves, or to have something to show their grandkids one day.
For snowboarding trips, this can be a great way to help document the trip.
Yes you can use your phone to take videos, but Go Pros and other adventure cameras are designed specifically to handle the rigors and record in a more stable way for getting action footage.
* I've linked the GoPro HERO12 Black, specifically as from what I can tell it's the only one that allows you to view footage on your phone through your app as you record, which is really handy if you can't see the back of the camera when you're recording. But there are other GoPro models too.
Best Gifts for the Backcountry Snowboarder
If your snowboarder has expressed an interest in going into the backcountry, there is some specific gear that they will need to do so safely.
It is essential to take a backcountry course, at least to level 1 in the United States, or something like AST1 in Canada at a minimum. And it's essential to go with at least one other person (who are also trained) whenever venturing into the backcountry.
But there is also essential equipment that you need to take with you. These can make great gifts for the aspiring backcountry snowboarder.
#28: Avalanche Shovel
An avalanche shovel like this one is essential for any backcountry snowboarder to help with rescues in the event of an avalanche or getting trapped in a tree well.
They are compactable, so you can fit them in your backpack and then when you need them, the handle extends to give you more leverage when digging.
#29: Avalanche Transceiver
Another essential safety item for all backcountry snowboarders is an avalanche transceiver. Sometimes referred to as avy beacons.
It's important to get training and practice on how to use these and to know the difference between these and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) - another reason why training for the backcountry is critical.
It's also important to note that these should be replaced every few years, to make sure they are going to be in good working order when you need them. So if your snowboarder is already an avid backcountry snowboarder but hasn't replaced there transceiver for a long time, it might be time they got a new one.
#30: Probe
The 3rd most essential piece of backcountry safety equipment is a probe.
Probes are used to help locate the exact location of someone buried in an avalanche or tree well. They are also useful for assessing snow conditions.
#31: Backpack
Perhaps the most obvious item needed for backcountry excursions is a good backpack. On a typical backcountry outing, you're carrying more with you (e.g. your shovel, transceiver and probe). But not only are you taking more equipment but packing food and water is also essential.
You may also have a battery pack, multi-tool, headlamp, emergency blanket, hand and toe warmers, crampons etc to carry.
So there you have our list of the best gifts for snowboarders, updated for 2023-2024.
If you have any questions, need any advice or if you can think of or have given or received any other gifts that you think are also great for snowboarders, feel free to leave a comment in the comments section below.
Tom says
Hey Mate,
Just wondering if you will get around to doing a review of the capita Aeronaut this season?
Cheers and keep up the good work!
Nate says
Hey Tom
Thanks for your message. Didn’t get on the 2024 Aeronaut last winter, unfortunately (got really close to getting one to test, but didn’t pan out). Going to push to get the 2025 this winter. But that review wouldn’t come out until like May, most likely.