Choosing Snowboard length was traditionally considered to be as simple as the length from the ground to your chin. This will sometimes be the right length snowboard but only coincidentally.
Snowboard technology over the years have left this technique obsolete and there a few factors that influence the length of a board, namely:
- Weight
- Riding Style
- Ability Level; and
- Height
Weight
Weight is the most important factor in determining the length of the board – the weight of the rider, is certainly more important than the height of the rider.
Why is weight the most important factor?
Snowboards are designed with a certain flex in mind. However that flex is also influenced by the weight of the rider. If you are too heavy or too light compared to the weight the board was designed for, the flex won’t behave in the way it was designed to – and the way you were told it should when you bought it.
If you are too heavy for the board (i.e. the board is too short for your weight) then the board will flex more than it should.
If you are too light for the board (i.e. the board is too long for your weight) you won’t be applying enough pressure to make the board flex how it should.
So try to be within the weight range for any given board. Then you can take into account other factors. A lot of snowboard manufacturers will release the weight range for each size of a particular board.
A good first step is to fit within that range. The range is usually quite high so we need some other factors to narrow it down a bit to get a more accurate length.
Snowboard Companies that show Recommended Weight Ranges
The Table below shows some of the major snowboarding brands and which do and don’t, to the best of my knowledge, provide weight ranges. If you know of any others just leave a comment below and I’ll add it to the table.
UPDATE: This table was updated April 26, 2019. When I first published this table (late 2014) there were 5/15 that didn’t publish weight ranges. Now it’s just 2/18, so a vast majority now do.
Snowboard Brand | Publish Weight Range |
|---|---|
Arbor | YES |
Bataleon | YES |
Burton | YES |
Capita | YES |
DC | NO |
Endeavor | YES |
GNU | YES |
Jones | YES |
K2 | YES |
Lib Tech | YES |
Never Summer | NO |
Nidecker | YES |
Nitro | YES |
Ride | YES |
Rome | YES |
Rossignol | YES |
Salomon | YES |
YES | YES |
It’s not necessary to be right in the middle of the recommended weight range. For example if the range is 110 – 150lbs you don’t have to be 130lbs!
Weight recommendations are helpful, but I would consider them to be general guidelines and not hard and fast rules. Often weight recommendations cover a wide range so aren’t that accurate and brands can change these, year to year, without any real changes to a board.
Typically these days weight recommendations are based on your weight without gear. It used to be based on weight with gear but this has changed. And this makes sense as you are less likely to know what you weight fully loaded with gear.
Note: As you can see in the table above, not all manufacturers release weight range information and they don’t take height into account at all. There are tables further down this post which should help you to get a good idea of the best size for your height and weight.
Ability Level
The ability level of the rider can also influence the length of the board. This is pretty easy though. Generally speaking if you are a beginner then go with a shorter board (3-5cm shorter). Anyone intermediate and up should not take ability level into account when determining length.
A longer board is more difficult to control. Therefore beginners are often recommended to choose a slightly shorter board than a more advanced rider might go with.
Riding Style
Besides influencing factors such as flex of board, set back of stance etc, the rider’s style can also influence the length of board that he/she chooses to ride.
This is also pretty basic though – if you are a freestyle rider then go between 3 and 6 centimetres shorter (depending on preference) and if you are only into free-riding then go a 2-4cm longer (again this will also depend on preference and some rider’s like to go more or less extreme than this).
The length sizing tables further down in this post will show the length for an all-mountain rider. Take off 3-6cm for a freestyle board and add 2-4cm for a freeride board.
If you’re not exactly sure of your style you can check out the article at the following link.
Height
Whilst definitely not as important as weight, height is still somewhat of a factor – partly because a taller rider will weigh more than a shorter rider (with the same build). But also because the taller rider will typically have a wider stance (though not always).
If a tall rider ends up on a board that’s too short for their stance width, then either they won’t be able to set their stance width as wide as they would like – or they will be at the widest possible stance and that may not be the best position on the board for them.
In the same vane, a shorter rider may end up not being able to go as narrow as they would like on a longer board – or they might end up feeling like they have too much board outside the inserts.
The Length Charts
The tables below show estimates for board length based on height and weight. Once you have found that, you have found what we can call the “standard length”. From this you should adjust the length for style preference (and ability level if you are a beginner).
This might be the same as the standard length or different depending on style and ability. This is what I like to call your “real length”.
I like to then choose a range of heights that I am happy with so that I can have the option of a wider range of boards and a couple of centimetres either way isn’t going to affect my riding in any noticeable way.
Choosing Your Length
Right, let’s check out the charts below.
I consider the standard length to be the “all-mountain” “non beginner” length of board. For example if the length in the chart according to your height and weight is 160cm then this is your length if you are an intermediate or above all-mountain rider.
So for example if you’re a freestyle rider you might take 3-6cm off that and go with a 154-157cm board. If you are a beginner you might go with a 155-157 and if you are a dedicated free-rider then you might bump it up to 162, 163 or 164.
Go through the charts below and select the table that fits your height and then scan across until you find your weight.
For example, I am 6 foot tall and weigh 180lbs (81kg). So I find myself on the table and find my “standard length” to be 160cm. I am not a beginner – however I do lean towards freestyle riding so I take 2-6cm off and find my “length range” to be 154-158cm. However I am not a purely freestyle rider, more all-mountain-freestyle – probably a 50% park, 50% a bit of everything else – so I go with the higher end of the range there – 157cm (see how it can be very preferential).
So with my real length at 157cm I now consider any board that is 156-158cm because 1cm either way won’t be noticeable – but will widen the range of boards I can choose from. It’s also board dependent – so it might be the case in one particular board, that 159 might be better or in another 155 might be better depending on certain factors of the board. But this is a good range to look at.
* Weight in pounds (kg in brackets)
* Height in feet and inches (cm in brackets)
* Board length in centimeters (cm)
MEN'S TABLE 1 (110lbs to 180lbs)
110(50) | 120(54) | 130(59) | 140(64) | 150(68) | 160(73) | 170(77) | 180(81) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5'0" (152) | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 153 | 154 |
5'1" (155) | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 154 | 155 |
5'2" (157) | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 154 | 155 |
5'3" (160) | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 155 | 156 |
5'4" (163) | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 155 | 156 |
5'5" (165) | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 156 | 157 |
5'6" (168) | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 156 | 157 |
5'7" (170) | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 157 | 158 |
5'8" (173) | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 157 | 158 |
5'9" (175) | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 157 | 158 | 159 |
5'10" (178) | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 157 | 158 | 159 |
5'11" (180) | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 158 | 159 | 160 |
6'0" (183) | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 158 | 159 | 160 | |
6'1" (185) | 153 | 155 | 157 | 159 | 160 | 161 | ||
6'2" (188) | 155 | 157 | 159 | 160 | 161 | |||
6'3" (191) | 158 | 160 | 161 | 162 | ||||
6'4" (193) | 160 | 161 | 162 |
MEN'S TABLE 2 (190lbs to 260lbs)
190(86) | 200(91) | 210(95) | 220(100) | 230(104) | 240(109) | 250(113) | 260(118) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5'0" (152) | 154 | 155 | 156 | 156 | ||||
5'1" (155) | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | ||||
5'2" (157) | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | 158 | |||
5'3" (160) | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 | 160 | ||
5'4" (163) | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | |
5'5" (165) | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 |
5'6" (168) | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 |
5'7" (170) | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 |
5'8" (173) | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 |
5'9" (175) | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 | 163 | 163 | 164 |
5'10" (178) | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 | 163 | 163 | 164 |
5'11" (180) | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 | 164 | 164 | 165 |
6'0" (183) | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 | 164 | 164 | 165 |
6'1" (185) | 161 | 162 | 163 | 163 | 164 | 165 | 165 | 166 |
6'2" (188) | 161 | 162 | 163 | 163 | 164 | 165 | 165 | 166 |
6'3" (191) | 162 | 163 | 164 | 164 | 165 | 166 | 166 | 167 |
6'4" (193) | 162 | 163 | 164 | 164 | 165 | 166 | 166 | 167 |
WOMEN'S TABLE 1 (90lbs to 160lbs)
90(41) | 100(45) | 110(50) | 120(54) | 130(59) | 140(64) | 150(68) | 160(73) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5'0" (152) | 136 | 138 | 140 | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 149 |
5'1" (155) | 137 | 139 | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 150 |
5'2" (157) | 137 | 139 | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 150 |
5'3" (160) | 138 | 140 | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 151 |
5'4" (163) | 138 | 140 | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 151 |
5'5" (165) | 139 | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 152 |
5'6" (168) | 139 | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 152 |
5'7" (170) | 140 | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 153 |
5'8" (173) | 140 | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 153 |
5'9" (175) | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 154 |
5'10" (178) | 141 | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 154 |
5'11" (180) | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 155 |
6'0" (183) | 142 | 144 | 146 | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 155 |
6'1" (185) | 143 | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 156 |
6'2" (188) | 145 | 147 | 149 | 151 | 153 | 155 | 156 | |
6'3" (191) | 148 | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 157 | ||
6'4" (193) | 150 | 152 | 154 | 156 | 157 |
WOMEN'S TABLE 2 (170lbs to 240lbs)
170(77) | 180(81) | 190(86) | 200(91) | 210(95) | 220(100) | 230(104) | 240(109) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5'0" (152) | 150 | 151 | 152 | 152 | 153 | |||
5'1" (155) | 151 | 152 | 153 | 153 | 154 | |||
5'2" (157) | 151 | 152 | 153 | 153 | 154 | 155 | ||
5'3" (160) | 152 | 153 | 154 | 154 | 155 | 156 | 156 | |
5'4" (163) | 152 | 153 | 154 | 154 | 155 | 156 | 156 | 157 |
5'5" (165) | 153 | 154 | 155 | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | 158 |
5'6" (168) | 153 | 154 | 155 | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | 158 |
5'7" (170) | 154 | 155 | 156 | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 |
5'8" (173) | 154 | 155 | 156 | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 |
5'9" (175) | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 |
5'10" (178) | 155 | 156 | 157 | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 |
5'11" (180) | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 |
6'0" (183) | 156 | 157 | 158 | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 |
6'1" (185) | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 |
6'2" (188) | 157 | 158 | 159 | 159 | 160 | 161 | 161 | 162 |
6'3" (191) | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 |
6'4" (193) | 158 | 159 | 160 | 160 | 161 | 162 | 162 | 163 |
YOUTH TABLE
40(18) | 50(23) | 60(27) | 70(32) | 80(36) | 90(41) | 100(45) | 110(50) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3'4" (102) | 95 | 105 | 107 | |||||
3'5" (104) | 95 | 105 | 108 | |||||
3'6" (107) | 96 | 106 | 108 | |||||
3'7" (109) | 96 | 106 | 109 | |||||
3'8" (112) | 97 | 107 | 110 | 112 | ||||
3'9" (114) | 98 | 107 | 110 | 113 | ||||
3'10" (117) | 99 | 108 | 111 | 113 | ||||
3'11 (119) | 99 | 109 | 111 | 114 | ||||
4'0" (122) | 109 | 112 | 115 | |||||
4'1" (124) | 117 | 120 | 123 | 125 | ||||
4'2" (127) | 118 | 121 | 123 | 125 | ||||
4'3" (130) | 119 | 121 | 124 | 126 | 128 | |||
4'4" (132) | 119 | 122 | 125 | 127 | 129 | |||
4'5" (135) | 120 | 123 | 125 | 127 | 129 | 131 | ||
4'6" (137) | 124 | 126 | 128 | 130 | 132 | |||
4'7" (140) | 124 | 127 | 129 | 131 | 133 | 135 | ||
4'8" (142) | 125 | 128 | 130 | 132 | 134 | 136 | ||
4'9" (145) | 126 | 128 | 130 | 132 | 134 | 136 | ||
4'10" (147) | 129 | 131 | 133 | 135 | 137 | |||
4'11" (150) | 130 | 132 | 134 | 136 | 138 | |||
5'0" (152) | 131 | 133 | 135 | 137 | 139 | |||
5'1" (155) | 133 | 135 | 137 | 139 | ||||
5'2" (157) | 134 | 136 | 138 | 140 | ||||
5'3" (160) | 135 | 137 | 139 | 141 | ||||
5'4" (163) | 138 | 140 | 142 | |||||
5'5" (165) | 138 | 140 | 142 |
Keep in mind that this is a rough guide and if you can find the suggested weight range for the particular board that you are interested in then this is a good gauge too. The above table should find a size that fits somewhere in that range.
What Next?
Now that you’ve hopefully figured out your length range, it’s time to find out some other aspects to get you on your perfect board. Check out the following to find a good snowboard width range and to find a board that will suit the way you like to ride and where you like to ride.
>>Find Your Snowboard Waist Width Range
>>Find Your Style of Snowboard
Already know your width and style, then check out our Top 10 Snowboard Lists, which are organized by style of board (e.g. beginner, all-mountain, freestyle, freeride etc).
>>SNOWBOARDING PROFILES' TOP 10S LISTS
What Length do you ride?
I'm always keen to learn other rider’s set-ups. Please feel free to leave a comment below with the length board you ride, plus your height, weight and riding style.
Any other comments or questions always welcome too.
Hi Nate,
I wear Size 9US. I am 170cm tall / 79kg.
Juggling between 154 and 156 for Capita DOA due to my height and my level (just linking turns atm, so I would say early Intermediate level?) given I always have the impression that shorter board are easier to turn (plus that I am short for my weight).
But I understand for all mountain, 156 would give me that stability. (I am not at a level where I can do park.)
Now that I read more into the specs, 154 accommodate up to 81kg only, so I would be right at the edge at 79kg excluding boots. Where 156 accommodate up to 86kg… 156 it is I guess? Or 154 because of my level.
Bindings:
Looking to pair the DOA with STR. But also looking at Contact Pro (however as a park-oriented binding would be too soft?)
I was also told don’t waste my time with STR, go straight to Force.
Cheers,
Michael
Hi Michael
Thanks for your message.
I think 156 would be the better size IF you were more advanced, but for right now the 154 would be your best bet, IMO.
For bindings, the STR are a decent binding for their price, but yes the Force would be a better match with the DOA and are nicer bindings. The STR on the other hand would be better for your ability level. Though there’s not much in it between the Force and STR in terms of ability level. The Contact Pro would be good for your ability level, but aren’t a good match to the DOA, IMO.
For the record, I wouldn’t consider the DOA as a board I would recommend for that high-end beginner/low intermediate rider, but if you’re set on that board, then I’d go 154 and match it with either the STR or Force. The Force a better overall binding and a better match for the board flex-wise, but the STR would do the job OK, if you wanted to save a bit of cost.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for thorough suggestion and advise!
Cheers~
You’re very welcome Michael. Hope you have a great season!
Hi Nate,
I’m buying my first snowboard and I’ve decided to go with the Capita Mercury. I’ve been riding for a few seasons now and I’m approaching the advanced skill level. I am 180cm tall with a US8.5 boots and am at about 87kgs in weight.
I don’t plan to ride park that much if at all and went for this board as per your top 10 list for all-mountain boards. I’ve got Union Force bindings and Burton Imperials for my bindings and boots repsectively. All thanks to your recommendations and your site, it has really helped with informing my decision of what to get for my snow gear.
I’m not quite sure if I should get the 159cm board or the 161cm board. As the Capita website recommends on the 159cm board of weights up at 90kg. As I’m closer to the 90kg weight range than I’d like to be. Is this going to be a concern later down the track? Should I go and get myself a 161cm Mercury instead of the 159?
I noticed however you did say that a few cms above and below wouldn’t be too much of a worry. Although the Mercury is costing me a fair amount of money, I would like to be sure on which one to buy. I’d like your expert opinion on the matter.
Thank you again for all your reviews and content on your website.
Kind regards,
Rob
Hi Robert
Thanks for your message.
I would go as big as the 161 for the Mercury for you and the main reason is boot size. The Mercury is on the wide side for your boots and sizing down a little bit is a good idea if the board is a little wider. I would be debating between the 157 and 159 for you, for that reason. I think the 159 works though, so if you were uncomfortable going down to the 157, and considering you’re not really riding park, then I think the 159 is a good bet, but I’d definitely be going 159 over 161 for this particular board.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate. I’m new to snowboarding. I decided purchase a 2nd hand board (barely used) older model though it’s the Rome Jett 2008/2009. I thought better that hiring and wasting time with fittings etc
It’s 144cmL/ 23.5cmW & my boot size is 6.5US (Thirty Twos 86 fastracks with Roxy bindings
My height is 5ft and my weight is 51kg
Is my board too long for me for a new starter? I read I should ride up to 140cm but that longer can give more stability for beginners so was Ok to go slightly longer. I purchased it after being told it was 142cm so thought I’d be ok. But then after I bought it and measured it the board is actually 144cm 😐
I’m worried it’s too big for me…. sigh I leave for the snow in few weeks time flying from Australia to nz
Your advice be appreciated! Cheers from Perth, Western Australia
Hi Rosie
From what I can tell the smallest size for the Jett 2008/09 model was 144, so your measuring sounds correct.
IMO, it’s too long. For your specs, I wouldn’t go longer than 140/141 for an all-mountain board, even as an advanced rider. Maybe a touch longer if you were getting something as a freeride board.
But as a beginner, it’s typical to actually go a little shorter, so I’d actually be looking in that 136-138 range for you. Pushing it go up to 140, but 144, IMO, is too long. It’s true that longer boards are more stable, but that’s typically about stability at high speeds and as a beginner you don’t tend to be riding that fast. A shorter length is easier to control and easier to turn. Go too long and the board becomes much more difficult to turn, particularly at slower speeds – and you don’t want to be learning going too fast at the beginning.
So yeah, IMO, 144 isn’t ideal for your specs full stop and especially as a beginner.
Hope this helps
That’s awesome advice thanks for that. I’ll go back on the hunt again then. If you have any boards you would suggest I look at feel free to drop a few names
Thanks for that. If you have any boards you can suggest that be great.
I had a hunt around and came across a Burton Troop 141 would that be OK for a beginner? Or is that too advanced for a learner?
Also what flex rating should I be aiming for?
Hi Rosie
Looking at the specs of the Troop (not super familiar with it as it’s from before I started doing this), it’s not ideal for a beginner, IMO. The main reason is that it’s got an all camber profile. Full camber can feel “catchy” and is less forgiving of skidded turns – so that can be tricky for a beginner to ride. Most boards around the Troop’s time were all camber – so certainly you had to learn on that kind of profile then, but there are better profiles for learning on nowadays.
It looks good in terms of flex – in general I would be looking at something around that 3/10 to 4/10 flex for a beginner. For more check out:
>>How To Choose The Best Snowboard For A Beginner
Some great beginner options:
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
Or if you wanted to step it up a little bit, but without going too advanced:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
If you’re looking at used boards, a lot of these have had models for several years, so there might be some used models floating around. But also check out some of the past top 10s, which will have some older models which have been discontinued. If you scroll down to the bottom of the following page:
>>Snowboard Top 10s
And click on the “2019-20 Top 10s” button, you will be able to look at the 2019-20 lists and from that page you can go back even further and so on.
Cheers! I think I’m going to go with the Nitro Lectra after reading up on your suggestions. I was hoping for twin shape but if this boards been rated number one I’m assuming directional still fine for a first timer…?
Unfortunately none left in older models in my size 138cm so I’ll go with the 2022 model. I liked the look of the burton stylus but I was hoping to use my exisiting bindings from my Rome board and see the Burton is a channel system. I assume my Roxy bindings will fit the nitro (the Rome Jett is the 4×4 binding system I think…..)
Thanks again for your help I’ll let you know how it goes after my first time taking it out next month!
Hi Rosie
Yeah, the Lectra has the standard 2 x 4 insert pattern, which pretty much any binding can mount too (apart from Burton EST). Even if your Roxy bindings are old there shouldn’t be any issues and if they fit on a 4 x 4 insert pattern, then they should fit on 2 x 4 just fine.
Directional is fine for beginners, IMO. The only thing would be if you were really keen to ride switch well from the outset, then it might be a good idea to go for a true twin. The Lectra isn’t super directional or anything but it does have a slightly longer nose than tail (but that’s outside the contact points, so mostly noticeable in powder) and a small setback, plus I think it has a slightly directional flex pattern. But yeah, unless you’re really keen to work on switch from the get go (and you can still ride switch on it, for sure, but not quite as easy as on a true twin), I wouldn’t worry too much about it being directional.
Thanks heaps Nate! You’re a legend!
OK I’m just waiting for the lectra 138 to become avail – sold out everywhere.
Or if there is also other board for an absolute beginner that you would recommend?
Recap:
5 ft
51kgs
Size 6.5-7 boot
Snowboarding in nz terrain not sure if you need that info
Hi Rosie
Plenty of options, if you didn’t want to wait for the Lectra (assuming you were able to find one of these):
– Arbor Ethos 138
– K2 First Lite 138
– Burton Stylus 138 (on the wider side for your boots though)
– Ride Compact 138 (also a little wider, but not as wide as Stylus)
– Salomon Oh Yeah 138 (also a little wider, but not as wide as Stylus)
– GNU B Nice 139
– Rossignol Myth 139
– K2 Dreamsicle 138 (little bit of a step up from the First Lite, but still beginner friendly)
– Arbor Poparazzi Rocker 138 (little bit of a step up from the Ethos, but still beginner friendly)
– GNU Gloss 136 (bit of a step up from the B Nice, but still beginner friendly enough)
THANK YOU!!! Your help is saving so many of us the hassle, money and time with picking the right board – you’re awesome mate. Appreciate ya hard work 🙂
You’re very welcome Rosie. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hey Nate!
I’m looking at getting a NS Lady West.
I would say I’m a solid intermediate who’s only interest is carving and floating down the mountains. I like to dodge through trees quite a lot too and eventually would like to get some back bowls in as I get more confident. But for the foreseeable future I’m perfectly content with blues and blacks around Colorado.
I learned boarding on a NS 149 Infinity. It’s the first and only board I’ve ever used. However I weigh about 20lbs more than when I was when I got it….and even back then it terrified me to go fast on it as it started to feel wobbly.
I’m stuck between the 153 and the 156 for the NS Lady West. Just can’t decide. What do you think?
Height – 5’4.5” (the half is important)
Weight – 161 (hopefully back down to 140s by Xmas, I’m coming off of knee surgery)
Boots – old school Nike Vapens Sz 8
Thank you!
Hi Skylar
Thanks for your message.
Definitely don’t go 156, IMO. Even if you were to stay at 161, that’s too long for your specs, IMO. Even 153 you might find a bit long, particularly if you’re looking to ride a fair bit of trees. But 153 is certainly doable. I would be leaning 151 though. That’s going to be a good size for you now and will still be a good size if you get into the 140s. The 153 might start feeling a little long if your 15 pounds lighter.
In terms of stability at speed, and I definitely understand that concern, there are other factors than just length that contribute to that. A longer board is certainly more stable at speed than a shorter one, all else being equal, but things like flex, camber profile, effective edge, side cut and others affect stability at speed too. The Lady West is naturally more stable at speed – so if you were to get a Lady West in 149 it’s going to be more stable at speed than the Infinity 149. Even if you were to go to the 147 Lady West, you’d have a little more stability at speed versus the 149 Infinity – it would be getting closer then, particularly for the fact that the Infinity has more effective edge, but even in the 147, I would say the Lady West would have more stability at speed than the 149 Infinity. So, I wouldn’t go way longer just for stability at speed – and then negatively affect your maneuverability, particularly for trees. The 151 Lady West should feel significantly more stable at speed than the 149 Infinity.
Hope this helps with your decision
Cheers!
So you think the NS LW 151 is my best bet, especially if I’m a smidge lighter weight wise?
Out of pure curious type, is there really that much of a differ between 151 and 153?
Thank you again. This is been really helpful.
Hi Skylar
Yeah exactly, I’d say 151 even right now – and a smidge lighter definitely 151.
The difference of 2cm isn’t huge, but with all else being equal it is a noticeable, even if relatively subtle difference. Particularly so when comparing the same board in different sizes because the change of 2cm in effective edge is more noticeable than the change over the overall length of the board.
However, for the Lady West going from 151 to 153, some of that extra length is actually outside the contact points – with the difference in effective edge only being 1cm. So the difference is going to be less noticeable than the difference between the 149 and 151. That’s because going from 149 to 151 you’re increase in length is all in the effective edge. So the overall length difference there is 2cm and the effective edge difference is also 2cm. From 151 to 153 the overall difference is 2cm but the effective edge is only 1cm.
I would still go 151 if I was you, but the difference going to 153 will be slightly less than it otherwise might be comparing 2 of the same board 2cm apart.
Hope that makes sense!
Hi Nate,
First of all, thank you for all the great info and content! Super helpful! I am getting back into snowboarding again I am looking into an Arbor Shiloh for an all mountain daily driver. I need a board that I can cruise around with my kids and also something that I can use in most conditions. I see that they have both rocker and camber profiles and both have grip tech. It looks like both are rated to be good in powder? I am used to a camber board and like the edge hold, but don’t want to struggle on powder days. What would you recommend Rocker or Camber? I would say I am a intermediate to advanced rider. Not sure about the sizing. I am 5’7″ and 157lbs.
Thank you!
Hi Brandon
Thanks for your message.
I prefer the camber version personally, and I think you will prefer it to, given that you’re used to camber. The Rocker will give you more float in powder, for sure, but I think overall I would go camber for you. The Rocker still has good edge hold for a rocker board, but just doesn’t have the same spring and pop as the camber version. Whilst the rocker version is an easier going more playful ride, the camber version is still nothing too technical or demanding and should be fine when riding with your kids, IMO. It’s not super stiff or anything (I would say 6/10, like the specs say, is pretty accurate).
I wouldn’t say you’d struggle on powder days, but I wouldn’t say it’s more than average on a powder day. I wouldn’t call it good. If you were going to have powder days really regularly and more importantly if those powder days saw you in waist deep powder (or you know quite deep powder), then I think it would be something to consider. But if you’re typical powder day is more like a few inches, then I don’t think you’ll have any issues.
Size-wise, it’s a tight call between the 153 and 156, based on height/weight. But if you could also let me know your boot size, that would help to decide between those 2 sizes.
Thank you so much for your reply! I usually run about a size 9 1/2, or 10 in boots, but I am currently riding a pair of DC Munitys, which seem to run small, so I have a 10 1/2.
Hi Brandon
Thanks for the extra info. Yeah, I find DC boots tend to run small, so not surprised there. I think the 156 Shiloh is probably your best bet but it’s a close call. You’d be fine width-wise on the 153, IMO, but there would be more reason to go down to 153 if you had smaller boots. If you had size 8s, for example, then I would say 153 for sure, but with 10s/10.5s both options work still. 153 is certainly not out of range for you though and if you think you’d be more comfortable riding the shorter length, it’s definitely not wrong. Some pros and cons for each size:
– Better float in powder and better stability at speed from the 156
– Easier to maneuver at slower at speeds and easier for freestyle stuff and generally softer flex feel and a little mellower ride for the 153
Hi Nate! I’m shopping a new board and I read a lot of your articles to help me finding the good one. I’m 5’8’’ and a half, 155lbs, my boot size are 11, I’m an advanced rider and more a freerider than a park adept. I’m looking for the burton flight attendant and I was checking the size chart. The good lenght should be the 156 but the waist widht is a little bit short for my boot size (248mm). So I was looking the 159W that is 260mm, but I’m concerned about the lenght. Is it too long? And the weight chart said that is for 150lbs and more. Am I too close to the limit?
Thanks for your help and for your great work! All the informations tthat you publish on the web is really helpfull!
Mark
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, IMO, the 156 is going to be narrow and the 159W too big, unfortunately.
I would look at the Hometown Hero which has a 156W which I think would be a really good size for you. It’s not the same board as the Flight Attendant, but is similar enough – and still certainly freeride oriented.
Thanks Nate for the feedback, I appreciate it! I looked for the hometown hero but couldn’t find it anywhere. So I checked other options like the custom 154W or but I’m not sure if it’s the good board for me (I’m more in freeriding). Do you konw if there is something pretty similar to the flight attendant or the hometown hero on the libtech side? Like the Jamie Lynn (156, waist width 159), the Dynamo (156, waist width 255 or W 265) or other models? If yes, wich one do you suggest?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Mark
Yeah, if you’re lookin for something freeride, then Custom not really that suitable, particularly if you’re looking for something that does well in powder.
On the Lib Tech side, the Dynamo isn’t that similar, but it is what I would call freeride, but only just – but pretty close to all-mountain. Doable, but it’s quite different to the Flight Attendant – it’s softer flexing and has quite a different feel to it. Certainly doable if you’re OK with something softer and with rocker between the feet (all be it subtle rocker). If you did I would probably look at the 156W. Lib Tech boards tend to be narrower at the inserts than you expect from the waist width. The 156 is around 263mm at the inserts, which is just a little narrow for 11s, IMO. The 156W will be more like 273mm at the inserts, which is a better width for 11s, IMO.
The Jamie Lynn isn’t a board I’ve ridden, so I couldn’t say from first hand experience, but on paper it looks closer to Flight Attendant. Still going to be quite different, but closer than the Dynamo, IMO. The 156 is likely to be a little wider than the 156 Dynamo, but could still be pushing it at the back insert. But might be doable. It’s hard to say without having actually measured the inserts on that board.
The Ejack Knife and GNU Mullair would also be suitable but don’t have suitable sizes, IMO.
From Burton you could look at the Deep Thinker 157W. It’s a little stiffer than the Flight Attendant, but if that’s not an issue, that’s definitely worth looking at.
Or you could also look at some of Burton’s 3D options – the Show Stopper 154 would be a good option, IMO. It’s a wider board (without being ultra wide) and a fun ride.
Of course there are other brand options too, but if you’re looking at those brands specifically.
Thanks Nate for the recommendations! I’ve decided to order the Dynamo 156W finally. I didn’t want a board to stiff to and with some forgiveness for the hardest days. I just have one more questions for you and after, I’ll stop bothering you! Do have any suggestions of bindings that could be a great match with? There’s a deal on the Ride A8 and on the Burton Castel X. Do you think it could be a good fit or should I check for something else?
Hi Mark
I think those would both work with the Cartel X being the closer match. I would something around 6/10 to 7/10 in terms of flex for the Dynamo. I haven’t specifically tried the Ride A-8, but I have ridden the C-6 and I found that to 6/10 flex on them is pretty accurate. Assuming that translates into the A-8s, then they’re likely around that 8/10 flex that they state. The biggest thing with going a little too stiff with bindings on a board that’s softer, is that you can potentially get a bit of a twitchy feeling. Not sure that the A8s would be stiff enough for that, but there’s a potential. The A6 would be a closer match, IMO.
Also check out the following for other options:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
I recently tried the 2022 Cartel X and they would be a good option, IMO – I found them to be a 7/10 flex. And will likely make the Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride list when I update it for 2022.
Hope this helps
Salve,
For the girlfriend, she is 157 cm (5’2) tall and weighs 50 kg (110lbs), already got the Burton Mint in size 6.5 US. Her skill level in between beginner and intermediate, closer to beginner. We are looking at the K2 Dreamsicle 138/Bright Lite 138 with the Union Juliet size S. The plan is that this combo will allow her to progress past beginner, well into intermediate-advanced territory over the next seasons. Do you agree with this combo and sizes ?
Hi Kitz
Thanks for your message.
I think that would be a really good setup for your girlfriend as something that will help her to progress quickly, but not grow out of it too soon. And the sizes for both board and bindings are spot on, IMO.
Thank you, for your answer.
I am 180 cm (5’11), 75 kg (165 lbs), and got the Burton Ruler Wide in size 10 US with a K2 Standard 158 (151 WW) and Union Flite Pro M. I am thinking to upgrade to the K2 Raygun, should I go for the 156 (247 WW) or the 157W (260 WW)? I also what to upgrade the binding to the Arbor Hemlock, do you find it to be a good match, what other all mountain bindings should I look into?
Hi Kitz
Yes the Hemlock would be a good match to the Raygun, IMO.
Size-wise for the Raygun for your specs, length-wise, around that 156-157 is a good bet, IMO.
Width-wise, I think you probably get away with the 156 with Burton Ruler 10s. And I think going 157W is getting too wide. In terms of the 156, it’s borderline being too narrow, but some things to consider:
1. Binding angles. If you ride with something like +15/-15 or similar – anything with a reasonable amount of angle on the back foot that will give you more leeway (I say back foot just because the front foot is always on more of an angle or the same but never less of an angle). With a straighter back binding angle, that means higher risk of boot drag.
2. How deep you carve. If you really like to get high on your edges and carve deep, then there’s more risk of boot drag.
The Raygun/Hemlock is certainly a step up from the Standard/Flite Pro, but it’s a small step up, IMO. Depending on your ability level currently, you might be able to upgrade a little more. But if you feel like you want to take a small step up and are happy to do that, the Raygun/Hemlock works as a small step. But if you feel like you’re at an intermediate level, you could go a little more than that, if you wanted to.
Hello Nate,
Thanks for putting these guidelines together and for all the advice for reference above. I’m a beginner but have picked up snowboarding pretty fast in the last couple times I’ve gone. I’d like to invest in a nice board that will be good for me for a the next couple seasons as I progress. I usually ride at resorts and would like to get into some jumps eventually.
I am 6’0 185-190 lbs and wear a size 11.5. So far I’ve ridden a 155W and 157W rental in 11.5 boots and it felt pretty good but when I look at charts it’s kind of hard to tell what to go with at this point. I’m looking at the Salomon Sleepwalker 2021 and can’t decide between the 155W or the 158W. I also picked up some Union Flight Pro bindings in a seize large but don’t have boots yet. From my specs and this board what would you recommend?
Hi Corey
Thanks for your message.
It’s a tight call between those sizes for the Sleepwalker. Being a freestyle oriented board, I would be leaning 155W. That way, once you’ve progressed past it as your do everything/progression board, you could keep it as your freestyle deck and size up to a more all-mountain board. I think as an all-mountain board, the 158W is the better size for you, but being a freestyle oriented board, you can and probably should size-down (effective edge versus overall length of board is higher in a freestyle board – less board outside the contact points) – and as a beginner, even a fast progressing beginner, I think the 155W works better for this board. I would say probably 156-158 if you were looking at an all-mountain board, but for this I would go 155W.
The Flite Pros should match well with the Sleepwalker, IMO and are great beginner bindings, so good choice there, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thanks a lot Nate. I decided to go with the 155W. What do you think of the K2 Rosko Boa Boots?
Hi Corey
The Rosko Boa make very good beginner boots and would be a good flex match to the rest of your setup. They’re probably something you would want to upgrade from fairly quickly, as they might feel a bit soft after a while, but other than that I think they will work well with your setup for sure.
Hey Nate, so my height is 5’9 and I weigh 150. I was looking at getting the academy graduate board and was looking at the 150cm and 154cm. And I would say that my style is all mountain but eventually implement freestyle. Although I enjoy carving a lot also. Which size do you think I should go with?
Hi Jonathan
Thanks for your message.
I would say go 154, as an all-mountain length for you, assuming at least a solid intermediate level of riding. If you were going to be riding it predominantly freestyle, then 150 would be an option, but for an all-mountain size, I’d go 154.
Hope this helps
Hey! I am just beginner i bought used burton board 160 w and my height 6 ft weight 65 kg .i have been Going on the mountain for like month and i am good with the heel edge but I couldn’t do any turns’s properly. My show size is 10.5 do you think it’s because of the board. Any suggestions you could give like what boots or board should i try as a beginner.
Hi Preet
Thanks for your message.
In my opinion, the board is quite a bit too long for you – and probably too wide as well. With 10.5s you’re kind of in between wide and regular width and it would depend on the board and your boots which to go with – and if you do go wide, then sizing down a little in length is a good idea to compensate, when your on the cuff like that.
But firstly, in terms of length, it’s too big for your weight. With your specs, I would be looking at more like 155, even at a more advanced level. As a beginner, you could even go to like 152. Length is more about weight (and ability and your style of riding) than it is about height. Height is a very old school way to look at sizing – and a lot of rental places still do it off height, which is annoying because a lot of people get the wrong idea on sizing. I guess because it’s a fast way to size.
So yeah, unfortunately I think the size is well off, IMO, and going smaller is really going to help. I would look at the following, and go for something no longer than 155.
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
Hi!
I haven’t read though the years of comments, but has anyone brought up width? I”m 180 6-0 size 12.5 boot, bulky nitros. so looking at the DF boards from Never Summer. I ride all-mountain, pow, steeps, trees, zero park. Currently have 162W x 27 Nitro Team Exposure, Twin hybrid rocker. Considering west bound 157 or 160DF. Question is, does width play a factor in stability at speed? Does extra surface area matter when you are on edge railing turns on chunky snow? The benefit to riding a 157 x 28 would be great on steeps and tech terrain and trees, but would suffer on fast groomers, ice and uneven snow. Seems like a 160 would be the call for a one board quiver.. Thanks for any thoughts ?
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
Yeah width is super important, IMO. You can find the sister discussion to this post here.
In terms of stability at speed, for the most part it’s about length rather than width (and other factors of course, like camber profile, flex etc, but between length and width it’s more down to the length). For the reason that you allude to – when you’re on edge, the width of the board does nothing essentially for stability at speed. When you’re flat basing yes, and when you’re in powder, for sure. But when you’re really bombing on hard pack, it’s a non-factor really – and as you know if you want control when bombing, you want to be on an edge, not flat basing.
For your specs, the size you’re used to riding and how you like to ride I would be leaning 160DF. The 157DF would certainly give you more maneuverability for the likes of trees but overall, I think 160DF. You could also consider the 161X, if you felt that your boots would do OK on that. If you have bulky 12.5s and really like to rail your carves, it might be pushing it width-wise. In a low profile 12, you’d be all good, IMO, on the 161X, I would say.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Great article. I’m 5’10 190-195lb size 10.5-11 boot depending on brand. Just in the beginning stages of intermediate level. Will stick to the mountain more than park and would like to work through trees at some point. I really like the Never Summer Proto Synthesis. What length would you recommend? Thank you!
Hi Brian
Not sure if you saw my other response on the Proto Synthesis review, but I have copy pasted that response below, in case you haven’t seen it yet.
I think your charts are probably spot on… I am 5’8 and I started with a thinner flexible light weight board around 154 or so… I could maneuver it awesome, but it was slow and I had a really hard time keeping up with friends.. I bought a stiffer Burton Balance 165, and boy is it fast… it will also drift through flat areas quickly where the old one would stall out and stick… but, it takes a lot of effort to throw it back and forth, and it is also much heavier and thicker than my first board. I wish I had the same board in a 158 now… you live and you learn, lol…
Hi Nate,
Thanks for sharing your knowledge with this fantastic info and so many thoughtful personalized suggestions too!
I’m shopping for my first board; I’m a beginner and riding small groomers in the Midwest. Just beginning to link turns, slowly slowly. Looking at the 2021 DC Biddy and, after reading all you’ve shared, I’m wondering if the 140 or 144 would be a better fit? What do you think? I’m 5’4”-5’.5”, weigh about 120 max, women’s boot size 8. I’ve rented several times at 144-145 (because that’s what they gave me per my specs) and once at 140 but I was too new to really tell much difference specific to the board size given the different location and snow conditions that day.
Also- Is the DC Biddy a good choice for me to start with? It appears to be fairly soft with a rocker base (from what I’ve found so far, it’s specs say medium flex but reviews say it’s softer). And does a more flexible board mean I should seek more flexible boots & bindings too? I’m not seeking speed or anything aggressive; right now I just want to learn safely and develop confidence and ease on piste. Does that sound boring, ha!? I’m a solo mom and my seven year old is also just beginning to snowboard (we’ve recently moved to a place where there are several small ski resorts around) so right now safety and a solid foundation are my priorities, and he’ll often be with me as we play and learn. I’m seeking the best setup to learn quickly with ease and gain confidence, both for my own enjoyment and also because I imagine it won’t be too long before I’m chasing him to keep up 😉
Thanks so much for your suggestions!
Shelley
Hi Shelley
Thanks for your message. They definitely learn fast at that age, so I see where your coming from for sure!
I don’t test many DC boards, so I don’t know for sure, but if the consensus is that it’s a little softer than medium, assuming that’s the case, then it looks, on paper like a good beginner option.
Size-wise, it’s a tough call between those sizes. I think the 140 would be the quickest in terms of progression to learn on, if you’re a complete beginner. But if you’re more of a high-end beginner, then I might lean more towards the 144.
And yeah, best to go with similar flexing boots and bindings. I would probably try to look for something 4/10 flex, rather than 3/10 or less, based on the board, but I think 4/10 flex would work, assuming the board is around that. Some options:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
I can give you other options for boards too, if you didn’t end up going with the Biddy, but it looks like a good option to me, assuming it’s a little softer than its 5/10 rating.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate I’m looking to buy a new snowboard I’m 5’3,135, & size 7.5 boots. I’m a beginner as well Ive been going to big bear and mountain high mostly
Hi Alan
Thanks for your message.
I would say something around 145-147 would be a good range to look at for your specs, as a beginner. Width-wise, around 235-243mm at the waist ideally. But would depend on specific boards. Some options for beginner boards to look at:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, I’m currently looking at getting a new board, I would say I’m a beginner to intermediate rider. I’m 5’11” and 170 lbs and wear a size 10.5 boot, would you say a 156 to 158 would be good for me? my style of riding is mostly carving and all around cruising and I’m looking at getting into jumps as well. One board I have been looking at is an Arbor westmark camber in the 157 midwide. Thanks
Hi Josiah
Yeah size-wise, I would say 156-158 is a good range to look at.
The Westmark Camber might be doable but I’d say it’s borderline in terms of high-end beginner bordering on intermediate level. Size-wise, 157MW is maybe the best size for that board, however the 156 is also a possibility. The 157 is what they call a mid-wide, but it’s as wide as most other brands wide boards in around that 157 length. And the Westmark is quite wide at the inserts versus the waist. I think the 156 is doable width-wise (264mm at the inserts) depending on the boot you ride (some are more low profile than others) and your binding angles. The 157MW is bordering on being too wide.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I’m looking for new general purpose board. I ride groomers, powder and trees. Currently I have two boards, an old Burton Process Rocker 157 with Missions and a Niche Story 159 with Cartels. The Burton doesn’t always have the best edge control (not bad), but it’s super easy to control and works in wide range on conditions including trees. The Niche is good board providing you’re at speed, and works in well on hard/icy conditions. I wouldn’t take it in trees, and you have to muscle the turns at slower speeds. It’s stiff the entire length.
I am 5-10, 163-167 lbs, 10-10.5 boot and ride mostly in Utah. I consider myself intermediate. I’m considering a Burton Daily Driver that comes in a 155 and 159. I’m also considering going stepon but not sold. If I went stepon I’d consider either a Photon or Swath with their RE:Flex.
What do you think? Thoughts about the board? 155 or 159?
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden the Daily Driver yet, but I literally have one sitting next to me ready to take out. But won’t be getting it out until Tuesday.
On paper, given what you’re describing, I think the Daily Driver would work. For your specs, particularly given you like to ride trees a lot, I would be leaning 155.
My prediction is that it will be better than something like Process Rocker in terms of edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, but not to the same level as something like the Story.
Hope this helps
Thanks! I’ll look forward to your review of the Daily Drive
Hey Nate, Did you have a chance to take the Daily Driver for some turns? If so, any initial thoughts?
Thanks!
Dan
Hi Dan
Yes, I have taken the Daily Driver out! And I liked it. I rode the 155.
I would say it’s around a 7/10 in terms of flex (bordering on 7.5). Not easy to butter/press and not super forgiving of skidded turns. You can get away with it to an extent but can punish you a little. It’s not super nimble at slow speeds, but it’s not bad either, particularly for its flex. Really nice on a carve and nice and stable at speed. It’s a more smooth feeling ride than a snappy one. Stomps landings on jumps and has a good bit of pop. Not super hard to access that pop, but you’ve got to put a little bit in, as is typical of stiffer boards. Fun in powder and smashes through crud well. Not amazing in trees, but not bad either. It’s got what I would call a semi-locked in feel and the edge-hold in hard/icy conditions certainly better than something like the Process Rocker, but nothing like the likes of the Niche Story.
I’d say the 155 Daily Driver would be in between the Process Rocker 157 and Story 159 in terms of stiffness and feel, but closer to the Story for sure. I didn’t feel like I had to muscle turns at slow speeds on the Daily Driver, but overall it did prefer to be ridden fast versus slow. The Story in 159 for your specs is, IMO, quite a beast. In the 156 I think it would be more manageable at slower speeds for you. If you did go Daily Driver I would go with the 155. And that would give you a bit of balance between your current boards. Not going to be as easy to maneuver in trees as the Process Rocker, IMO, but should be easier than the 159 Story.
If you ended up going Step On, I would go for Photon. It would be a good flex match for the Daily Driver, IMO. The Swath a little soft for it, I would say.
Nate – That is an incredibly helpful review, you’ve got me dialed-in and potentially saved me both some money and time. I will not pull the trigger on the Daily Driver without demo’ing first.
Thanks again!
You’re very welcome Dan.
hi nate, im 5’10, 135 pounds and wear a size 9 boot. I wanted to get the 2020 version of the CAPiTA Horrorscope and the only sizes that seem to be left for that model is a 149 and a 153. I was leaning more towards the 149 which has a weight range of 90-150 vs the 153 of 110-170. Do you think the 149 will be good for all around riding and not too squirly?
Hi Nick
Thanks for your message.
I would say 149 would be a really good length for your specs for this board, if you were doing mostly freestyle. For all-round riding I would be looking more at 151 or 153. 151 probably ideal, but 153 certainly doable. Since you’re looking for all-round riding, I would be leaning to 153 over 149, but if there is a strong freestyle focus in your riding, then 149 would be a good size.
Hope this helps
thanks for the response! after looking around, I was drawn to the Bataleon line up, in particular, the wallie and disaster. In my last comment, I didn’t mention that although I want a board that will be good for all mountain, and be able to ride some pow, I would say I will be riding park probably 60-70%. Would you still recommend 151 for the go to size compared to a 148?
Much appreciated man, thanks.
Hi Nick
With 60-70% park, that’s a tough call. The 151 would certainly suit you better in pow and for stability at speed, but 148 would give you that lighter, easier to spin, easy to throw around, pop etc, easier to butter and jib with. I would say your all-mountain size is 152 give or take, and your purely park size 3-6cm smaller than that. So, it’s a really tough call. Since these boards aren’t that well suited to powder or speed (IMO, on paper, as I don’t test Bataleon gear currently), going to 151 would give you a little bit more in those areas, where these boards would be weakest at the slight sacrifice of how they go in the park. Also, if in the park, you’re hitting big jumps quite a bit, then 151 would give you a bit more stability for those. Just not quite as suited for more playful/creative jibbing/buttering stuff.
Ok sounds good, gives me something to think about. Thanks for your input and the info!
You’re very welcome Nick. Happy riding!
Hi!
I’m looking at the K2 first lite as my first board. I’m a bit confused at what size would be the best for me. When I went to the store, the sales person only made me stand with the board and told me that the one that comes around my chin would be the right size. Reading this site and many others, that doesn’t seem totally accurate… I’m an absolute beginner, 5’3, 110 lbs, size 7 (women) boots. Just looking to get down the mountain, not doing any fancy tricks 😉 I’m hesitating between the 138 cm and 142 cm.
Any help would be appreciated!
Hi Vanessa
Thanks for your message.
That’s the old way to do it and the lazy way. Makes it very easy for sales people (or at rental stores) to quickly decide on sizing. And also I think there’s some stigma around asking for someone’s weight, that still makes people do it the old way. But height is the least important factor for sizing, IMO. Weight, boot size, ability and riding style way more important.
For you, as a beginner, I would be leaning towards the 138. If you were a more advanced rider, I would say closer to 142 is better, but as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off 3-5cms, IMO. So, whilst the 142 wouldn’t be completely wrong for you, I would go 138.
Hope this helps
It does, thank you! That’s what I was leaning toward, after doing a bit of research, but the salesman told me it was too short for me and that made me insecure about my choice and hold off the purchase.
Thanks again!
You’re very welcome Vanessa. Happy riding!
Shoot, I think I made a mistake in buying my new board this year 🙁 I had a GNU board 10+ years ago, my first board ever, I think it was men’s, it was rather stiff (I’m a woman) and it was a 147. Never felt right. Snowboard lengths back then were determined a bit different.
I ended up buying a new board real fast this year and couldn’t easily find a size chart and the first site I went to still gave me about a 147 but having done several other size charts, I think I should have gotten a 144.
I got a K2 Spellcaster women’s 147, camber twin medium flex 5/10. I ride on ski hills, hit the park (jumps/mounds only so far) sometimes, I’m an intermediate, do little pops here and there, ride at about a 20-30km/h speed max, finally understood carving with my new board. I think I should have gone with a 144. I’m between 5’3-5’4″, around 117lbs (no gear on). I finally found the K2 catalog and in there, the size chart is buried (not on their product page though).
I think I should have gotten a 144 :\ Please tell me I didn’t f-up!
Hi Jess
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, IMO, 144 would have been the better size for you, based on specs – and on how you ride, ability and everything.
But the one saving grace is that you’re used to that kind of length – and you’re used to it in a stiffer board by the sounds of it. So, even at the same size, but in a softer easier going board, it’s going to be better suited – and if you were riding a men’s board, then chances are that it was also too wide for you – so your 147 is probably overall smaller. So yeah, I think 144 would have been more ideal, but if you’re feeling comfortable on the 147, then I think you get away with it. If it was easy to exchange, then I’d look at getting the 144, but if not and you feel comfortable, it’s still sounds like a more suitable ride than you had previously.
Hope this helps
shoot, good to know for next time I suppose, the 144 was available too when I was purchasing but with COVID restrictions and stores being closed and all, I just got the 147 and didn’t think much of it. And it isn’t possible to return it or exchange it :\
I’m also a size 8 boot (Nitro Crown TLS) if that makes any difference
Is there any advantage to this longer board? Would I have truly felt much difference between the 144 and 147? Will it make it that much harder if and when I eventually progress to some more park tricks and or spins?
There is also a lot of other specs I wasn’t aware of in choosing boards (effective length, the radius) – the 144 is still “better” given my riding style?
So strange because I’m pretty sure back in the day when I purchased my first board yearssssss ago, choosing board lengths was very different. I recall 147 being actually on the short side and I still had that in the back of my mind.
Thank you again! This site has been very helpful and detailed and I appreciate how you’ve gone through so many of these comments to help us all (Just wish I found this sooner >.<)
Hi Jess
With 8s you are good on either the 144 or 147.
I definitely notice a difference from 3cm. It’s not massive, but it’s definitely noticeable, IMO. The longer version will make it harder for butters, presses and spins. It’s on a relatively subtle level, but still definitely noticeable.
Back in the day board length was based mainly on height, which is kind of strange, when you think about it. The board feels your weight on it, but it doesn’t feel your height. Sizing also depends largely on riding style. E.g. if you wanting to bomb most of the time and/or ride in deep powder, then going longer makes sense as it helps with stability at speed and float in powder – but typically at the detriment of maneuverability at slower speeds, butterability, etc.
If you were mostly riding fast and in deep powder, and more big mountain, then 147 would be in range for sure and you’d then likely go for a freeride board too.
But it’s also important to re-iterate that what you’re used to riding also plays a part. If you were coming in cold, I would say definitely go 144 or smaller, but given what you’re used to, that should also influence your decision – and since you’re used to riding longer, I think you’ll be fine on the 147. If you really struggle in the park, then later on you could try to pick up something cheap that’s shorter. In that case, I would probably go even shorter – like closer to 140, and use it as your dedicated park/freestyle board.
the crappy thing is I just checked and I had actually written the snowboard shop on FB messenger with my weight and height and asked if the K2 spellcaster 147 was good for me, and they must have glossed over the 147 and just said yes it’s a great board and it’ll suit me
Hey there,
All the information here is great. I’ve been riding the same board since I’ve been in high school and it is time for an upgrade, but I’m a little lost when it comes to sizing. I am an intermediate to advanced rider who spends most of his time in the park or on groomed trails. Now I haven’t grown much taller since high school, but have grown a bit the other way. At 5’5″ and 160lb I am looking at a board between 148-152. I am worried that the lower end I may be a bit heavy for, but the higher end I may be a bit short for. I also ride most often in the northeast in less than ideal (icy) conditions. Any direction would be super helpful!
Hi Tom
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would be looking at at least 150 and up to 154, depending on how much time you spend in the park versus groomers and also how you like to ride the groomers. If you tend to like to bomb the groomers and lay down deep carves and in general ride quite aggressive, and don’t spend that much of your time in the park, then I would be erring on the longer end of that range. If you’re a little more casual or prefer to find natural features on the groomers (side-hits etc) and not straight line bomb it that often, and/or if you spend quite a bit of your time in the park, then I would err on the shorter end. You could even go as short as 148, then if you’re predominantly in the park and pretty casual/freestyle on the groomers.
How you spend your time will also depend on the board you get too. If you’re more of the freestyle/playful type riding, even when on groomers, then I would be looking:
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
If you like to ride a little faster/carvier on the groomers, then:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thanks, Nate. That helps a lot.
You’re very welcome Tom. Happy riding!
Hey Nate, I’m looking at the ride agenda but can’t decide on the length of either 152 or 155. I’m a beginner rider, 5’5 160lbs. And size 9 boot, looking to figure out which would be best for me.
Hi Andres
Thanks for your message.
As a beginner I would go 152 for your specs. And if you keep the board in the long run, that will be a great size for you as a park/freestyle board. And if you don’t get into park/freestyle, it’s something you can sell if you decide to upgrade later.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
You are amazing for answering all these comments. I wanted to buy a board myself and needed some help. I am 5’7 around 150 lbs female. Was wondering what length to get and if you had recommendations of boards for around a beginner level 4. I usually go to Big Bear or Mammoth in California.
Hi Alicia
Thanks for your message.
At a beginner level 4, I would say probably around 149-152, depending on the style of board you went for. If you don’t have any specific style of riding that you’re leaning towards or want to keep things versatile, then I would go either all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle. If you think you want to get more into freestyle/park riding, then a freestyle board would be a good option too. The following is a list I created for that high-end beginner to low intermediate:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the instruction and guidance!
I am 5’10” and 155 lbs with size 7 men’s boots. I am looking for a powder (and probably sometimes all mountain) board and I found Arbor Clovis Women’s 152cm (24.2 waist width, 90-174lbs suggested weight) seems to be an ok fit. This is the longest size they have. My only concern is that the length of the board seems to a bit short. I usually ride on a 155cm Arbor Swoon Camber. Hope to know your thoughts! I would also appreciate if you have any other recommended powder boards for my boot size.
Really appreciate your help.
Best,
Jack
Hi Jack
Thanks for your message.
I think the width on the Clovis would be great for your boot size, but the length is getting a bit small, particularly if you’re looking for powder float. I would try getting closer to that 154-157 range.
I think the NS Lady West 156 and the Jones Women’s Flagship 155 would both be great options. Or you could also look at the Burton Family Tree Sensei 156. The Sensei is designed to be narrower.
Hope this helps
Thank you for your reply Nate! I did consider Jones Women’s Flagship. But after looking at your review, the 8/10 flex scares me a bit as I am an intermediate rider still. What do you think?
Thanks again and have a great weekend.
Hi Jack
I think in reality you’re probably going to feel it at around a 7/10 flex. Similar with the Lady West.
Hello Nate,
Thank you for all the great information & tips. This page has been very resourceful. I began to snowboard in my much younger years and had over 15+ years off. I would consider myself somewhere in between an intermediate snowboarder. I just recently took my 15 y/o son up to the mountain for a weekend for his first time. He did great and loved it!. I am now interested in getting us some gear. I am 5’11”-190lbs-Size 11 and my son is 6’3″-190lbs-Size 11. We are both all mountain freestyle riders. What size boards would you recommend? Also do you have any recommendations for first time boards, boots & bindings? I’ve taken an eye to the Step On bindings. Thanks again for all the great help!
Hi Sean
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, for you, I’d look in that 156-159 range and for your son, similar. Maybe 157-159. He’s a little taller, and I do like to take height into account, but it’s the least important factor, and given that he’s less experienced (easier to go with a shorter board), I think it evens out to a similar length.
In terms of the board, I think the following would be a good bet to look at:
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Given that you describe your style as all-mountain-freestyle, the Capita Outerspace Living, the YES Typo, NS Snowtrooper or Burton Process Flying V (the last 3 listed as all-mountain but you could also argue them to be classified as all-mountain-freestyle). If you encounter icy conditions quite often, the Typo and Snowtrooper would be my picks there.
If you wanted to go a little more advanced, you could also check out:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
But those would be a steeper learning curve.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Was hoping you can give me some expert advice on my first board purchase. I would consider myself and advanced beginner, 6’1″, 170 pounds, having a size 12 boot, with the goal of riding mostly groomed hard snow, occasional night time icy, in the Eastern US-not much powder. Not into too much freestyling, just keeping up with my kids on the trails. I found a couple of boards but was debating on the right size. I usually ride -15, 15 duck stance, and sometimes switch riding. I would rather have a one board quiver, a board that will help me progress and keep. What do you think about:
Nitro Prime 158cm (256 waist width) flat camber w/rocker tails (new) directional twin, extruded base
Nitro Prime 156W (268waist width)
Nitro Prime 159W (270mm waist width)
Fifth Element Grid 158W (261 ww), directional twin, flat camber w/rocker tails, extruded base
Fifth Element Raven Supreme 155W, 158W, (width unknown) true twin, flat camber w/ rocker tails, extruded base
others I’m considering:
Public General 157 cm (251 waist width) flat camber w/ rocker tails (new) directional twin, sintered base
Yes Libre 156W (256 waist width), hybrid camber (used) directional twin extruded base
Rossignol OneMag (older model) 156cm (253 waist width) sintered base (used), intermediate/advanced
I am leaning more on the Nitro and Fifth Element boards due to lower price and my lower experience level. The others are more expensive but have positive reviews and popularity. The Rosignol OneMag says advanced to expert, but had positive reviews for harder snow riding
I just want a good board that I can enjoy and progress on without having to buy another any time soon.
Your recommendation is highly appreciated.
Hi Johnny
Thanks for your message.
I don’t test Fifth Element or Public boards and really don’t know anything about them, so I can’t really comment there.
The Nitro Prime is a very good option as a beginner board, IMO. It’s one that you might potentially feel like you grow out of quite quickly though, in terms of progression. That would be the only question mark on that one. Otherwise a great option.
The Libre, IMO, is a great option for that high-end beginner to low intermediate rider that wants something to last a long time through their progression.
The One LF (previously called the One Magtek, so I’m guessing it’s quite an old model) isn’t what I would consider Advanced to Expert personally, but also not really high-end beginner either. I would say Intermediate to Expert.
Size-wise, I think something in the ranger 156-158 would be your best bet – and with 12s, I would go wide for sure.
So if you went Nitro Prime, I would go 156W. 158 will likely be too narrow.
The 156 Rossi One will also be too narrow, IMO.
The 156W Libre would be my pick of those options for you (also good in hard/icy conditions).
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you very much for taking time to help me out.
If I went with the 156W instead of 158 in the Nitro, would it still be stable enough at speed when carving the hills?
Hi Johnny
Won’t be quite as stable at speed at least not when carving, but for your specs, I still think it will be enough. Note though that this board isn’t one that will be super stable at speed anyway. It’s just the reality of a softer flexing board. Typically makes the board easier to handle at slower speeds, but not as stable at high speeds. But up to certain speeds, it should be stable enough in the 156W versus 158.
Hi Nate,
I’m a beginner snowboarder, 5’10, usually somewhere between 175-180 lbs. I’m looking at the K2 Standard board and I can’t decide the length I should go with. I’m leaning towards either the 152 or 155, but I was interested in your advice. I imagine that my future holds mainly just riding with hopefully learning a few basic tricks and jumps as I progress. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Matt
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
I think the 155 would be just right. The 152 a bit too short, even as a beginner. I would go 155. But just to make sure it’s an appropriate width, can you also let me know your boot size.
Should have included that: boot size is size 9. Thanks for the quick response!
Thanks Matt. 155 would be a great width for 9s, so definitely 155, IMO.
Hey Nate,
This was super informational! I’m a very beginner snowboarding but really looking to pick it up more frequently and improved. I’m 5’6’’ around 140-145lbs and I’m not really sure on my riding style yet. I’m looking to get the Nitro board (if I can find it online) but unsure of what the best length for me would be. Also looking to pair the board with the Union Rosa bindings. Thoughts? Any recs are welcome, or if you think another board or binding would be better, too!
Thanks so much for all your help!
Hi Maria
Thanks for your message.
If you’re referring to the Nitro Lectra, then that’s a great beginner choice, IMO as is the Union Rosa for beginner bindings.
In terms of size, I would look at the range 144-147, so for the Lectra, the 146 would be a great option. If you can’t find the Lectra, also check out, for more options:
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
The style of each board is labelled, so if you want all-mountain (which is a good way to go if you’re not sure of style yet – or all-mountain-freestyle) you can see which ones I would classify as being that.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
first of all big thank you for shedding some light on the marketing BS of snowboarding brands
I hope I can ask you a quick opinion on the following matter. I tested today a (158 Wide) Burtom Custom Camber board that I really really liked. I (38M) am a 5’9″ (175cm) 160lbs (73Kg), so I’d be in the 154-157 range.
The thing is that, due to my boot size, 11-12 US, the board setup would be a wide one. On this setup, there is only the 154W and 158W sizes, the latter being the one I tested. I want to buy the board and now I wonder whether I should get the smaller one?
I am an beginner-intermediate rider, I do mostly groomed slopes with medium-hard/icy snow, I like some carving, none of park, but also would like to get into a bit of buttering tricks and small jumps (a la Ryan Knapton style). For the carving riding style I think the 158W would be better (more stable, more edging -plus is also the one I tried and loved-), but for the buttering part I think the 154W would be more approapiate?
Any help much appreciated! Thanks!
Pablo
Hi Pablo
Thanks for your message.
It’s certainly a tough call. For your specs and given that you’re at that beginner/intermediate level, I would be leaning 154W for you. But given that you’ve tested and liked the 158W, that does give reason to look at that. And yeah you’re certainly right that the 158W will be more stable and better for big carves and the 154W better/easier to butter and easier to pop with.
Another thing to consider is the width. If you’re in 12s, then the 154W is potentially still too narrow for 12s, even though it’s a wide board. It’s not that wide. It would be a great width for 11s. But if you end up in 12s, then I think the 158W would be the better call, because the 154W could potentially cause some drag issues with 12s if you’re going to be really leaning into your carves.
Purely on specs and how you describe your riding I would say 154W. But from your experience with the 158W and the width factor, there is certainly some argument to going 158W, too. I t