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.
| Snowboard Companies | Publish Weight Range |
|---|---|
| Arbor | YES |
| Burton | YES |
| Capita | NO |
| DC | NO |
| Flow | YES* |
| GNU | YES |
| Jones | NO |
| K2 | YES |
| Lib Tech | YES |
| Never Summer | NO |
| Ride | YES |
| Rome | YES |
| Rossignol | YES* |
| Salomon | YES |
| Yes | NO |
* via downloadable PDF
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 161cm. I am not a beginner – however I do lean towards freestyle riding so I take 3-6cm off and find my “length range” to be 155-158cm. However I am not a purely freestyle rider – probably a 60% park, 40% downhiller – so I go with the higher end of the range there – 158cm (see how it can be very preferential).
So with my real length at 158cm I now consider any board that is 157-159cm because 1cm either way won’t be noticeable – but will widen the range of boards I can choose from.
YOUTH TABLE
Men’s Tables
Women’s Tables
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.
Width Sizing Considerations
Keep in mind that you also want to ensure that the width of the board is suitable for your foot length. This is another good reason to choose a range of lengths so that you have more options for width sizes.
What Length do you ride?
I 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.
Very descriptive and accurate post. There is a ton of useful information here and I am sure everyone that is into snowboarding will find this beneficial. You have a little information pertaining to anyone and everyone. Nicely done.
Hey Nikki – thanks for stopping by – appreciate the comments.
Hey Nate,
Word up. I got a Q for you. I’m fairly experienced, but getting older, 49 and after a wrist break 🙂 needing to get a board to last me in to my final decade of riding… I’ve always been a carver not a jump or park man, am 5’10 and 180lbs. Have previously ridden a 159 DC PBJ 2010 model, while it turns sweet have found a little lively and uncertain at high speed carving, also sometimes struggle on pow but that maybe method improvement required 🙂 …. I’ve just bought a used Jones Flagship 164, thinking stability for high speed carving, my fave style… but have I over cooked the length? 161 I guess would’ve been ideal given my height & weight, but the 164 was the one going for a deal price. Thoughts?!
Luke
I just checked the Jones site and previously could not find weight to length figures, but found just now, and they say the 164 Flagship is 160-120lbs…. so i guess weight wise I’m good, but any idea about stability for the carving on fresh wide steep groom….??
https://www.jonessnowboards.com/gear/solids/flagship.html#size-charts
Hi Luke
I probably would have gone with the 161 but I don’t think 164 is too long – but it’s probably as long as you’d want to go. I’m 6’0 and 180-185lbs and my preference on the Flagship is the 161, even though I’m at the top of their weight recommendations – but I do favor going slightly shorter in general.
But as far as for carving, stability at speed and float in powder, the 164 will enhance that even more than the 161. It will so at the cost of a little bit of quick edge-to-edge maneuverability – but you may well prefer the feel of that.
I’m not surprised that your PBJ got squirelly at speed. It’s more of a freestyle board and not really known for being good at carving or at speed. Also being a true twin, centered stance board, it’s not ideal for riding in powder either. It’s more focused on jumps and park riding!
So whichever Flagship model you go for you’ll be getting a serious lift when it comes to speed, carving and powder. The flagship is quite a bit stiffer than the PBJ too – so that and the fact that you are riding a board that’s 5cm longer than what you’re used and with a host of other differences, means it will take a bit to get used to it – which is another reason why I’d say 161 – just because it might have been an easier transition.
Either way you’ll likely need to have a breaking in period to get used to the Flagship – just don’t expect it to feel anything like the PBJ.
Hope this helps
Howzit Nate
Not sure how to do new post (on iPad) so just replying. Great website and fantastic job replying to all the posts!
Besides board size, bindings and boots are a factor as well, right?
I’ve surfed my whole life (competitive level), live in South Africa, now 45yrs, 6′, 84kg. Snowboard addict, but only see snow every other year when we go to Europe.
Got a Salomon Prospect (k2 Cinch, cheap Burton boots) when I tried snowboarding for the first time in 2007. Thought learning would be a breeze, but first trip was a nightmare. Icy conditions, no lessons, lotta pain. Two trips later, got Rome Crail 158, Flow bindings and boots (entry level, don’t recall model).
With my surfing background I prefer powder and when it’s hard, I just carve (still learning) the pistes. No parks, etc. I’d say my powder riding is advanced, on piste intermediate.
Really enjoy powder when I put bindings as far back possible, but then getting to lift on piste is a nightmare. Carving on piste with this board is fun, but higher speeds the board doesn’t feel great.
Will keep this board setup, however feel like I must get something which is better for carving pistes and powder, 161 a 163 range. There’s too many boards and gear out there to make a decision. Your preference based on what I’ve mentioned here?
Hi Donnie
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I would say that a freeride board would be a great option for you. Basically it’s the kind of board that rides well in powder but is also good for carving on the groomers. They sacrifice park performance to be good at those 2 things – and they are typically very good and stable with speed.
Also they are designed to ride well in powder so even though they do tend to have a fairly big setback, the setback doesn’t have to be massive to get good powder float. I’m not that familiar with the Rome Crail but just based on doing some research on it, it looks like it’s a traditional camber board. And that makes it not so great in powder – probably why you feel like you need to set the bindings so far back. So I think you’ll really appreciate a board that is designed to float well in powder.
I have created a list of what I consider the best 5 freeride boards, which you can check out at the link below. I think that the YES PYL and the Never Summer 25 would be your best options on that list – just because I think they are both a little easier to ride on groomers (so you can still ride them there at an intermediate level) than some and because they are good in hard/icy conditions (especially PYL) as well as in powder. The Flight Attendant would also work well but won’t be quite as good in hard/icy conditions as the other 2.
~ My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions or want help choosing bindings/boots if you were thinking of upgrading in that department too.
Hi Nate,
I’m 5’11” about 225 lbs (without gear). Although I am heavy I’m pretty nimble for my size and would consider myself to be an intermediate rider. According to your chart I should be in a 164 cm board, and although I don’t do a lot of park riding that length sounds pretty extreme. I’m shopping for my next board and am thinking that I wouldn’t want to go longer than 160. Would that be too small for me? I’m thinking that even that much length would affect my maneuverability in the park.
Hi Jordan
Thanks for your message.
If you feel like you want to ride something shorter then I would go with that preference. Length sizing is partly to do with personal preference, in my opinion. And it certainly sounds like you have a preference for something shorter than a 164. There’s no reason why you can’t go shorter than that.
Just keep in mind that if you outside the weight recommendations of a board that the board is likely to feel softer flexing than what it’s rated as. How much softer will depend on the board, but let’s say you’re looking for a mid flexing board, you might find that it feels a little softer flexing than mid in say a 159, for your weight, than it would for someone who was within the weight recommendations for that board. To get a shorter board like that, that feels like mid flex for you, you might need to go for something more mid-stiff. E.g. if you like the idea of a 6/10 flex, you might have to go for a 7/10 flexing board to get that feel, if you were to go for a shorter size.
Hope this makes sense.
But yeah, you certainly don’t have to go with what the charts say above, they are just guidelines and if you have a preference for something shorter, then there’s nothing to say that you can’t do that. But just keep in mind that the board will flex differently.
Hope this helps
This is a great post explaining this process. I’ve never snowboarded before but I learned a lot from your post.
Hi Diondre – glad to educate. You should give snowboarding a shot – not something you ever regret taking up!
Hi Nate,
Always a pleasure to visit your site. I never imagined that choosing a Snowboard length was so involved. So I’m 5′ 10″ @ 175ish and it looks like from the chart that I would need a 157cm board. Now, I’m not even up to beginner level so I take another 5cm off of that which leaves 152cm, right? Thanks
Hi Ed. Great to hear from you again!
It can be a little bit involved to choose the right size snowboard but it’s worth a bit of effort because once you’ve found the right length you’ll know exactly what you’ll need from that point on and it will also help heaps with your progression to get the right size.
For your height and weight I would say a 159 would be your “standard length”. I think you were going down the 5’8″ height row on the chart to get 157. And yeah for a beginner you want to take off a few centimetres. So ideally you’d probably start out on around a 154 or 155. I used to get around a 155 when I started out.
If you are hiring, then something like a 154 to 155 would be good for you. If you are buying then ideally you would get a 154-155 and then sell that and replace it with a longer board once you were at a certain level of progression. A lot of people don’t like the idea of buying a board and selling it after a couple of seasons. This is the way I’d go if I was beginning again (and usually you can get back a fair bit of your investment selling the board 2nd hand).
If you don’t want to replace the board then you could go with something like a 156-157 so that you could “grow into it”. This will probably make progression a bit slower though.
If you can I would buy over hiring – check out this post on why buying is better for your progression than hiring.
Hi Nate,
In looking at buying a Slash Brainstorm (or Happy Place failing that) for an upcoming Japan trip. My Problem is that because I live in Australia these boards are really really hard to come by. I’m 173cm and 69-70kg without gear so was thinking a 154cm board would suit me (60% park 40% mountain). The only board I can find available in the country is a 151cm Brainstorm, do you think that this is too small?
Hi Nick
Thanks for the message.
I’d have you on a standard length of 155-156 but because you do 60% park I’d take a couple of cms off – but since you ride the rest of the mountain too I wouldn’t want to go too short. I think you’re spot on with the 154cm. I think the 151cm is slightly too small for you. It wouldn’t be unrideable but ideally you’d get the 154.
Unfortunately most brands from US online stores don’t ship outside the US – otherwise that could have been an option. I’m pretty sure Slash doesn’t ship internationally. I guess it’s even harder this time of the year in Australia to find boards given that it’s summer!
Maybe you could try looking at stores in Japan and grab the board when you arrive there. I have no idea about what boards they have there but imagine they would have Slash there.
Hi there, good article. I’m 6’5, 200lb all mountain rider looking at a new board. Struggling to decide between a 163 and a 167. I’m pretty solid with about 10 years of experience riding mostly steeps, bowls and trees with a preference for deep snow. Any thoughts on board size?
Hey Geoff
Thanks for your message. Given your physical specs and style of riding I would probably go with the 167. That extra length will really help with float in powder and stability on steeps and stability at speed – though you might sacrifice some maneuverability in the trees. So actually, I reckon if you’re in the trees a lot then maybe the 163 but if you’re in trees only sometimes then the 167 would be the best bet.
Hope this helps.
Will I suffer in all-mountain performance if I go with a 157 cm instead of a 159 cm? The board I’m looking at is the 2014 Rossignol Angus and I’m basically same size as you 6’1 175-180 lbs. Want to be able to progress in park and slash steeps and bowls
Hi Charles
The 157cm would be a great length for you for park progression. However, you will sacrifice some performance for your steeps and bowls. A longer board would give you better float in powder, more speed and more stability at speed. Ideally you’d want two separate boards but obviously that gets more expensive.
To me your all mountain length (assuming your already beyond being a beginner) would be around 161-162cm. To get one board that would do both the park and the rest I would try to get something in between the 157cm and 162cm. If you were getting two boards then I would get a park board at around that 157cm mark and a separate board for everything else at around 162cm.
Hope this helps, thanks for your message.
Hi, thanks for the great post 🙂
I’m a beginner and still very confused which size is suitable for me, will apreshiate any advice.
I’m 169 cm, 70kg
Boots size 7 or 7,5 UK or 41,42 EU
Thank you very much
Hi Bonin
Thanks for your message.
I have you at a 155cm for your advanced level all-mountain deck. Since you are a beginner I would recommend you start out on something between a 150cm and a 153cm.
Check out my list of what I think are the best boards for beginners at the link below – I think all of the options there should have a size in that range.
~ Top 5 Snowboards for Beginners
Hi Nate,
I’m having trouble deciding between two sizes (Ride Berzerker): 160W (259 ww) or 163W (261 ww)
My specs are:
Length: 1.86 m
Weight: 90 kg
I wear US size 11 Burton Imperial boots with shrinkage tech. I’m not a park rider, mainly backcountry/trees and groomers when powder runs short.
What would you suggest?
Hi Mark
I think either will be fine width-wise but I’d go for the 163W because I think this would be a better length for you for sure.
Hi there your post is great!! It has helped a lot. I am trying to purchase a board as a gift for a friend who is 172cm and 65kg. He is an all mountain rider what would you recommend? I do want to get an arbor whiskey snowboard for him but it only comes in 155cm. Would it be too long for his height and weight considering that he is still a beginner/intermediate rider?
Looking forward to your reply and thanks so much for the help!!
Hi Jac
I think the 155cm would be fine for him if he was a bit more advanced but I’m a bit concerned it’s a bit long for his current level. I’d prefer to see him on a 152 or 153 at this point.
Check out my top recommended snowboards at the lists below. These are options for beginners and all-mountian riders. I’ve included a link to my top all-mountain freestyle decks too because these can sometimes be great for intermediate all-mountain riders even if they aren’t going to be doing any freestyle riding.
~ Top 5 Beginner Snowboards
~ Top 5 All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
~ Top 10 All-Mountain Snowboards
Hopefully this will provide you with some more options. Let me know if you’d like me to narrow down those choices with what I think would work best for him.
Hi ! Im from Latvia, so, im raiding snowboard since I was a kid. So my level is advanced, my style is freestyle in LV and fee riding when im in another country on big mountains. So I’m using all mountain snowboard for freestyle to, i do slides, jumps all kind of tricks and in this season finally starting to learn back & front flips. I saved some money for new freestyle board just for tricks, and I can’t figure out sizes and shit. Im 181cm tall 78,5kg foot is 44euro size. Im looking at bateleon disaster 153 and bateleon evil twin 154 because of sales, but i was thinking if those boards will be to short for me and also it would effect my performance on jumps. Do I need a bit taller board or yolo go with 154 ?
Hi Kristaps
Thanks for your message.
I think a 153 and 154 would work well for certain freestyle riding. I’d have you on a 159 for all-mountain riding and a little longer for freeride. For Freestyle anything from a 153 to 156 would be good. The shorter the board the better for spins, jibs etc. A little bit more length does add a bit of stability. So for those bigger jumps then maybe it would be better to go with 155-156 rather than the 153-154.
Since it sounds like you’ll be hitting some big jumps – to get your flips in – then maybe around a 155 or 156 would be better. On the other hand it will be quicker to get the flips around with a shorter board.
I think anything from 154 to 156 would do the job for you. Out of curiosity, what length is your all-mountain snowboard?
Hi nate, sorry to bother you. I’m 178cm and weight 70kg. I like to ride park mostly and like to do some jumps and rails. i’ve always rented my boards and the last one (also the one that i liked the most) was a 152cm burton dominant condom. what would you advice me in terms os length and boards?
Thank you!!!
Hey João
For you I would say anywhere from a 151 to a 154 would be great. So if you liked the 152 size then that would be a good size to go with.
In terms of boards check out the link below for my top 10 freestyle snowboards.
~ My Top 10 Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions.
Hi Nate,
I’m going to get my first board in the next few months. I’m 14 years old nearing 15 but I’m only 167 cm and 100lbs, so I’m going with the junior ‘Burton Process Smalls’, so according to your chart I should get a 142cm board, but I’m just coming from beginner on to intermediate (I think) as I’m going to start linking turns (on dry slope as well if it helps, but hopefully going to alps soon!), so I don’t know whether to go for the 142cm or the 138cm. Also, how long will the board last me as I’m advancing pretty quick (only been on slope for 4 hours altogether) and obviously I’m still growing.
Thanks in advance!!
Hey Olly
Normally as a beginner I would say go with the 138 but since you are still growing as you say, and advancing quickly at the same time I think you will grow out of the 138 very quickly. If you had stopped growing I would say 138 for now and then upgrade later but I in this case I think the 142 would be the better choice, in my opinion.
It’s going to be slightly harder to progress on initially but it will last you for longer.
Enjoy the alps!
Thanks! Also if another post of the exact same comes through just delete because I sent two as I thought the first one deleted haha.
I was recently looking at the Rossignol Diva Magtek and the sizing chart recommends the 151+ size for a 60kg rider like myself, this seems terribly long! Is there a reason other than the flex rating that Rossignol recommends a board that long whereas I would otherwise be in the 146ish ballpark for other boards?
Thanks!
Hi Mary
Thanks for your message.
I can only imagine that Rossignol are only taking into account weight. Whereas I (and some other brands) take into account weight and height. I think that weight is the key factor but height plays some part. Can you let me know your height so that I can assess your board size.
It does also depend on the particular board, and flex comes into that, but I think you would be fine on the 148 if that’s the more suitable size for you.
Hi! I am looking into getting a ride baretta. I am about 120lbs and 5’7″. I am no longer at the beginner level, I am closer to being intermediate and a fan of all mountain riding. What size board would you suggest?
Thanks so much!!
Hey Ellie
Based on your size, level and style, I think the 148 would be the best size for you.
Thanks for visiting,
Nate
Hi, I would really appreciate some feedback… I’m 5’11 and weight 236lbs I’m not a beginner. I mostly just like carving down the hill and occasionally like to take my time and hit some small jumps on way down. I can carve very well. I also haven’t been boarding in 7 yrs and I gained a bunch of weight. But I know I’ll pick it right back up. I just recently bought two used boards and I believe they are 5ft 1 inch long and sorta wide. One is the ride agenda and one is a rossignol. The chart says I should be riding a 164. With all that in mind what do you think? Thank you much for your feedback. I also don’t know how to read your reply so could you email me at “email address removed” thank you.
Hey Luke
I agree that something around a 164cm would work well – give or take a centimeter or 2. 5ft 1 inch isn around 155cm if I’ve converted it right. I think these would be too short for you – especially if you like carving. If you feel like 164cm is too long for what you used to ride then maybe you’d prefer something slightly shorter but I wouldn’t ride anything less than a 160cm for you.
I have replied to your email also but you should get an email notification for this comment.
Hi! This is one of the most helpful breakdowns I’ve seen on the internet. Thank you!
I just restarted the learning process again after many years. I would identify more as a free-rider (not a brand new beginner but full disclosure: just started linking turns). I’m looking for a board that can facilitate my current needs and also stay with me as I advance. Also, I’m not likely to ever spend much time in the park and am more drawn to exploring the mountain.
My current burton feather board is sized 139, was purchased when I first started learning (I was 5′ 110 lbs). I’m *currently* 5’1″ 120 lbs.
The end of the season sales mean limited stock and I was recently sold a jones twin sister 146. I’m wondering if that is much to big for me. The alternative could be a ride baretta 142 or 145.
Thanks for your help!
Hi Jasmine
Thanks for the message.
I don’t think that the 146 Twin Sister is much too big for you. Maybe slightly too big for you at this stage. If you are just starting to link turns then a board of that length might be difficult to start with. But once you are more advanced and more confident with turns and start carving etc. then I think it will actually be an ok size for you.
Remember that your weight will be slightly higher with all your snowboarding gear on I think that you could be quite happy on a 144cm board and if you don’t ever want to go in the park and prefer freeride then adding a couple of cms to that is fine.
But I think if you start using it at this point it might slow down your progress. Especially if you are used to the 139, then the 146 will take a bit of getting used to.
If I was you I’d keep riding your Feather until you are feeling really confident linking turns and then try out the Twin Sister and see what you think of it.
Hope this helps
Nate,
I’m 5′ 8″ and 195lbs. I ride a wide range of boards but no bigger than a 156cm. I ride in the Northeast but occasionally I’ll take a trip out west. This is where I think I would need a longer board. I like the steeps and the bumps. What size would you suggest for my size given that most of the boards I ride have a stiffer flex and I am not going in the park. I’m always concerned that with a longer board it will end up riding me rather than me riding it. Thanks for your help and insight.
Chris
Hey Chris
Certainly conditions come into it too. A bit of extra length is nice in powder for sure.
It definitely takes some getting used to with a longer board but if you like carving and steeps etc then it can be a good idea. That extra length helps with float in powder, edge-hold, speed and stability at speed.
However, if you are used to a certain length then it will feel weird to start with. And in some case people just prefer their board to be slightly shorter. Maybe experiment with a 159cm if you can and see how it feels for you. Then you could try 158 or 157 and see if that feels better. But it’s totally up to you what you want to ride in the end and if you prefer something shorter there’s nothing wrong with that either. But I think it’s worth experimenting with a longer size to see if you prefer it after getting used to it.
Hi Nate – great article. Really useful information. Especially as I’m off on my once-every-5-years trip in a couple of weeks.
I was riding my own 168 Burton Canyon. At 1.91 tall and max 85kg (incl. kit) I now realise that was too long. First shop I stopped into suggested 158. Your table recommends 163-164. Will 4 or 5 cm make that much difference? Good info to take with me to the hire shop when I get to Verbier 🙂
Hey Sam
Thanks for your message.
I would say that 168 is definitely too long – but also that 158cm is too short. 4-5cm definitely makes a difference. It depends on your ability level and how you like to ride. For example I like to ride a 158cm for riding freestyle around the mountain but would go up to a 160, 161 if riding more aggressively on a more aggressive deck. or even 162 if I had the right conditions and was riding the backcountry. And I like to ride a 156cm or 157cm board if I was to spend the whole day in the park. I’m 183cm and around 85kg as well.
If you like to stick to the trails and you are something like an intermediate rider then I’d say a 160-162 would be fine. You could go as low as 158cm if you were riding freestyle or if you were a beginner. If you are high intermediate to advanced rider and like to ride reasonably aggressive downhill and don’t really do any freestyle stuff then a 163 or 164 would be the best bet in my opinion.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate. Thanks – really helpful as always 🙂
Hello, female rider here! Wonderful article and information provided! I am 163cm (5’4) tall and 120 lbs. I have a 145cm board for free riding down the hill but I want to start learning in park. What size is good for freestyle at my height and weight? I was thinking of buying a board thats 140cm or 142cm. Which length would be more appropriate?
Hi Mela
Thanks for your message.
I think either of those sizes would be fine for you for the park. Since you already have the 145 for freeriding then I’d say go with the 140cm, since you can use it purely for the park. If you had one board and rode mostly park but sometimes on the rest of the mountain then I’d say go with the 142 for something that can do a bit of both but since you will have 2 then the 140 is the slightly better option.
That’s what I’d do. Hope this helps,
Nate
Hey! Awesome article, thank you. I have a question as well, if you don’t mind. I’m 6,2 and weigh 170. I have my eyes on the K2 Carve Air, but the longest it comes in is a 154. I’ve been boarding for about two years so I’m decent. Do you think that board would be too short for me or should I be okay?
I love carving and powder, not so much the park. But I’ll pop a jump once in a while as well!
Thank you again!
Andre
Hey Andre
A 154 would normally be way too short for you. Especially if you like riding powder and carving.
However, the Carveair (not a board I’m that familiar with) looks like it’s designed to be shorter. Some boards are like this like the Capita Spring Break Slush Slasher. Funny that your comment has come now because I just picked up a Spring Break Slush Slasher to demo!
You would actually fit on the Carveair 154 board according to the weight range recommendations because these boards are designed to be short. I haven’t yet demoed this type of board but I’ll be on Capita’s version sometime in the next week.
If you haven’t tried this type of board it might be best to give it a go first to see if you like it. Quite a different type of ride I imagine. Though when I was talking to the Capita rep he said that a lot of people try their version of this type of board at demo days and end up buying it so it is getting more populer. Whether it’s the kind of thing you would like is hard to say.
If you want I can let you know how I go on the Spring Break Slush Slasher?
Sorry I couldn’t be more help with this one.
Hi Nate!
I’m between 5’2 and 5’3, 115lb and I’m looking for a new board. My actual board is a 151 cm… I’m an intermediate rider so according to the charts, I should buy a 141-144 cm board. I’m not doing a lot of park, I’m mostly a freerider type!
Which size would you recommended me?
Thx!
Hi Justine
I think that something around a 144cm would be best for you based on your info. But since you currently ride a 151cm then you will be used to something longer. However, I do think that you should reduce the length for your new board. I think something between a 145cm and 148cm would be a good range for you to look at.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Great article! Very helpful! I’m a (little) girl, I’m 4’8 (148cm), 81,5lb (37kg). I’m looking for my first board, I rented a lot of different boards and I finally found what I’d like to take:a board whith a medium flex because I’m an all mountain rider, I love high speeds and I carve very well, I’m an intermediate rider, I like pretty much classic camber boards. I recently saw the burton protest 2016, what do you think of this board? Is the flex too stiff? Which is the right size for me? 126 or 132
Hey Valentina
I don’t know a lot about youth size boards but the ProTest sounds like it could be suitable for you (based on some quick research). It will be quite stiff by the sounds of it but if you like carving and you can do it well then that’s more of a good thing. ANd it sounds like it’s a forgiving medium-stiff flex (if that makes sense!?)
I would say that the 132 is the best size for you.
Hope this helps
Hi, Nate,
I am 163 cm, ~150 lb, and with US men 8.5 size feet.
And I found that most boards that can handle this weight and feet would be longer than 150 cm.
But 150 cm board is already above my nose and near my eyes.
All my friends told me I should start with 145~147 cm board.
Can you advise should I choose 147 (a bit overweight) or 150 (too long?)?
My ability:
Beginner that is able to do S turn, learning carving but not perfect yet, never do black run, can handle red/green run easily.
Want to do some freestyle in the next season.
Thanks in advance!
Smallp Tsai
Hey – thanks for your message.
For your specs I would have you on a 152cm, if you were an advanced rider. It sounds like you are more than just an absolute beginner but I would say you could handle a 150cm. I would say that if you were a complete beginner then something from 147-149.
But you also say that you want to get into freestyle – so for that you will want a slightly shorter board too. So I would say something between a 146 and 149cm.
Like you say you will probably on or just over the max weight for those size boards for a lot of types of boards. But this doesn’t make those boards unrideable – it just means that they will probably feel like they are a softer flex than what they are labelled as.
Also there are some boards in those sizes – particularly freestyle boards that you will be inside the weight recommendations for. For example the Burton Nug 146cm has a recommended weight range of 135-175lbs. But you’re right that for most you will be bordering on the max. However, at around the 150cm mark you should start to be inside those ranges (depending on the board) so if you’re really worried about that go with a 150cm. Otherwise I think a 147 or 148 would be a good size for you.
Hope this helps
Hi, Nate,
Thanks for the reply. From another post you mentioned that you are kind of gear guy that have wide knowledge about snowboard gears. So I wonder if you can give more advice based on my situation?
I am at a country without snow, so there are only very few options at local shop (it is off-season now). I will have to buy online from US.
I did some study and come out follow board list (the most import factor is the look :D)
1. Slash happy place (149cm, 24.7cm waist, 110~150lbs): I think 146cm is better choice but the spec is a little bit below my requirement [waist=24.3 and weight range =100-140]
2. GNU Headspace (145cm, 24.7cm waist, 80-145lbs): the length is good, waist is good, weight is a little bit below (I will have to lose some weight before next season :D). But it is more jib/street use from thegoodride.com. (I will only play SB at ski resort)
3. GNU Carbon credit (147cm, 24.2cm waist, 80-150lbs): waist is a bit too short, would be risky without physical try it.
Personally I prefer 2. headspace for its look and length, but afraid it is too soft and too jib/street for me.
1. happy place is also good look to me, cheaper and also have good reputations (beginner/freestyle), the only drawback is the length 149cm.
3. CC is friend’s suggestion, but it is a risky pick due to the waist.
Can you give me your thoughts and advices/suggestions?
Thanks a lot~
Smallp Tsai
Hey Smallp
I really like the Happy Place – really fun, quality board. I think 149cm would be fine so I wouldn’t worry about the size.
Your right headspace is really a jib specialist. It will feel quite loose as well as being soft – and quite washy at speeds. Awesome as a jibber but not that versatile in what it can do.
The Carbon Credit is definitely an option but, as you say, there is that risk it’s too narrow for you. It would probably be ok but if you can’t physically test it for width then it is a riskier pick.
I would go with the Slash Happy Place if it was me.
hi, Nate
I finally pick happy place. Can’t wait for next season!
Thanks!
Smallp Tsai
Hi Nate,
I was looking to buy a used burton custom snowboard 169w. According to burton’s chart I should be ok with that snowboard model but according to other charts it would be too long. I wanted to get your input before I decided to get it or not. I weigh 203lbs, 6 feet tall and wear size 13 snow boots. Thanks
Hey Tk
Remember that this snowboard length chart – and others too – are an estimate. Often different brand’s weight recommendations are different for the same length as another brand. So you’ve kind of got to weigh it up between the brands recommendations and what you are used to and comfortable with and what your ability and style is.
That said, you should be fine on the 169W according to Burton’s recommendations. However, for me I wouldn’t want to go that long but that’s somewhat a personal preference.
For you it would depend on a couple of other things. Firstly, are you a beginner or a more advanced rider? If you are a beginner, then I would definitely say that’s too long. Also – how do you like to ride? Do you like speed, riding powder etc – then that length would be better than if you preferred things more casual or liked to ride more freestyle. The other thing would be – what length are you used to riding. If you usually ride a 160cm then going to a 169cm will be a big adjustment. However, if you are used to riding a 165cm then it won’t be as big an adjustment.
In terms of width, the width on that board should be great for your boot size.
Hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions or if you want to let me know your ability, style and what size you are used to riding and then I can let you know if I think that size will be ok for you
I live in the Midwest so we don’t get the best snow. But I guess you’d say I’m a super beginner and couldn’t tell what size board i used my first time because it was a rental. Last year was my first time but I loved it and want to keep going. My style right now is just riding casually down the hill and Maybe hit a very small jump here or there.
In that case I definitely wouldn’t go as long as 169W. This is going to be difficult to control if you are a beginner and if you aren’t riding in a lot of powder, then you won’t necessarily want a board that long.
I’d say you should start out on something around in the range of 159cm to 162cm. Still get a wide board – because you’ll need it with size 13s but 169cm is definitely too long for your purposes.
You could check out my top 5 beginner snowboards for some options – these aren’t the only boards that will be suitable but it’s a place to start. On that list the Ride Crook 161W, the Rome Garage Rocker 160MW and the Ride Agenda 161W would all be good options in my opinion.
~ Top 5 Men’s Beginner Snowboards
You could try looking for these secondhand too or look for previous season boards (they are new but usually have a big discount on them).
Let me know if you want any other board recommendations and if you want me to point you in the direction where you can find some last seasons boards online.
Thanks for the advice! If you could point me in the direction of some reasonable priced boards that’d be great.
Hi Nate,
I tried to reply again but for some reason it didn’t post. But I wanted to tell you thanks for the great advice and was wondering if you could give me some websites that have reasonably priced snowboards. Thanks!
Hey Tk
Sorry the comments don’t post straight away – they need to be moderated first – just to keep the spam out.
Check out the links below – a couple of sites with outlet stores for previous season’s boards.
~ Evo Outlet
~ The House Outlet
Hopefully you can find something in there. Feel free to run any boards that your considering past me before you buy and I can let you know what I think.
hi there I am about 178cm in height and about 78 kgs give or take. I am wondering what length snowboard I need and width. I am a us11. I am just beginning been on the mountain a few days linking my turns but not on switch. thanks
Hi Chris
I would say your “standard length” is 159. But since you are a beginner I would take some length off that. I would say for you anything from a 155 to 157 would suit.
In terms of width, you’re kind of on the cusp of a regular width board and a wide or mid-wide board. If you look out for the waist width (boards will show the waist width in the specs) and go for anything from a 255mm to a 264mm waist width. The actual width at your feet will differ depending on the shape of the board, your binding angles etc. but you should be safe on a width in that range.
Do you already own boots? If you don’t yet have boots then your boot size may be smaller. Often snowboard boot sizes are half a size lower (though they can be the same too). If you end up with a 10.5 boot, then let me know and I can recommend a new width range.
Hopes this helps,
Nate
Hi there
Really great and helpful site!
I’m a beginner looking to buy my first snowboard. I’ve found a very good offer on the Burton Feather size 144. However, i’m unsure as to whether that will be too long for me. I’m 162cm and 56kg (124lb) without gear and have been snowboarding for 8-9 days. Another option is the Burton Genie, which i can get to a really good price in a size 142. What would you recommend?
Thanks!
/Helena
Hey Helena
I think that the 144 would be a great size for you. The Feather should also be a good choice for your level. Though it did change a bit for the 2016 year. The 2015 and previous years models have a bit of a looser feel and the 2016 has a more stable feel.
The Genie is a great entry level board and the 142 Genie would also be a suitable size for you. The Genie hasn’t changed too much so it shouldn’t matter which year you got.
I think either would be a good choice. If I had to choose I’d probably go for the Genie if the Feather is 2015 or older but otherwise go for the Feather (just because it will likely last you as you become a more advanced rider whereas the Genie is more of an entry level only board and you might outgrow it, in terms of skill level, quicker).
Hope this helps (and doesn’t make your decision even harder!) – but neither would be a bad choice
Hi Nate!
I’m considering buying a used board from someone. It’s has only been used once. Its 145 cm. I’m about 168 cm and weigh around 55 kg. Is the 145 too small for me? Or will I be able to ride fine with it? I have snowboarded before, but it’s been years and years. So I’m a bit over beginner level, but not a pro.
The board brand is a bit unknown to the seller, but it has Marker written on it.
I hope you can help and thanks in advance 🙂
Jekatarina
Hey Jekatarina
Without knowing the board I couldn’t give you an accurate recommendation. But based on your height and weight I’d say that this size is probably fine for you. I’d say it’s on the smaller end of your range but I think a good size for you would be anywhere from 144 to 148, in general. So this fits that.
Although I can’t say whether or not it’s a good board choice for you in general without knowing the brand and model – I think there’s a brand Marker but I thought they only made helmets and goggles, though perhaps they make snowboards too.
Hi Nate,
I read your articles and all of them are very helpful.
I’m using Capita Horrorscope 155 and I’m going to change with Capita DOA but I’m trying to decide the length and especially about waist width. I’m 175 cm and 85 kg. intermediate level and freestyle. boot size 10.5 US. I like little ground tricks and jumps.
DOA 156 cm – waist width 252 mm
DOA 158 cm – waist width 254 mm
Two lengths and specs are close each other. What’s your recommend for me?
Thanks for your help.
Hey Ramazan
Sorry for the late reply – have been on vacation.
Generally speaking I’d say the 158cm for you. But in the case of the DOA I’d go with the 156cm for you. It’s quite an aggressive deck – it’ll definitely be more aggressive than the Horrorscope but it’ll also have heaps more pop – is awesome for jumps, ollies etc. Not as good for jibbing as the horrorscope.
In terms of Waist Width there isn’t much in it between the 2. You’ll be fine with the 252mm.
I rode the DOA recently and loved it! One of my favorites that I demoed last season. You can check out my review at the link below.
>>Full Review of Capita DOA
Nate,
Thanks for the awesome post! I am looking at a Ride Alter Ego. I am 6’1″ and usually weigh around 165lbs without boarding gear on. The ride site points me to a 164 wide (I wear size 11 boots) however I have always ridden 158 twin all mountain boards. I rode a friends 160 directional freeride last year and liked it, and am a bit worried about the 4 extra cm. I ride open bowls when I can and really enjoy riding trees. This would be my pow day board and I would say my skill level is advanced, at least I’d like to think so! Just having trouble pulling the trigger right now! Thanks for your suggestions!
Hey Ronnie
I would say that the 160W would be your best option. Yes, you usually ride longer on a freeride board but I think the 164 might be slightly too long in this case – for the alter ego. Since you’re used to the 158 and you really enjoyed the 160 freeride you rode, I would stick with that size. I’m slightly shorter (6″0) but heavier (185lbs) but I really like a 160 to 161 for freeride and powder. I think that you could definitely handle the 164W if you’re a relatively experienced rider but I think you’d have more fun on the 160W.
That said, others prefer longer in the powder. But I think if you were comfortable on the 160 that you rode, then that’s probably the best option for the Alter Ego for you.
Hi Nate, great article and I’m amazed at how responsive you’ve been to everyone.
I’m looking to buy a womens Never Summer Proto Type 2, mostly for all mountain. I ride in Australia. This is my first board but I’ve been renting for years. I am comfortable riding down black groomed and ungroomed runs, have started learning basic buttering (I’m aiming to eventually do all-mountain freestyle) and occasionally dabble in the park (very noob).
I’m tossing up between 142 and 145. I’m 161cm tall and currently weigh 55kg without snow gear. I’d love to hear your opinion on the size I should get as NS has not published their recommended sizing.
Hey T
Thanks for your comments. Yeah, unfortunately Never Summer are one of the snowboard companies that don’t give size recommendations. But they do make awesome boards so we’ll forgive them!
I think either size would work for you. You’re kind of on the cusp between the two sizes – not helpful I know 🙂
But it really comes down to how much you think you’ll be doing the freestyle stuff. If you see yourself going into the park more often and doing more freestyle on the rest of the mountain, then I’d go with the 142. It will be easier to control for butters and easier to spin if you get into that. Easier for riding switch etc. The 145 on the other hand will give you a bit more stability at speed and a bit more float in powder if you find yourself in there.
The 142 however, does have more effective edge than the average women’s all-mountain-freestyle board of that length. And also, I rode the 157cm of the Proto Type Two (men’s version) and that felt like it rode a little longer than it’s size (if that makes sense!). So, the more I think of it the more I think the 142 would be best for you.
So, I think either size will serve you well, but I would lean towards the 142.
Great board choice by the way – I really enjoyed riding the men’s version of the Type Two – and also I think it will suit your purposes well.
Hope this helps,
Nate
Hey Nate, thanks for the reply! I’ve decided to go with the 142 for the freestyling side of things. We also don’t really get much powder days in Australia. Can’t wait to hit the snow with my new board!
Nice one!
Let me know how you like it after you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hi Nate,
Very informative post. Looking to buy my first board, definitely still a beginner but when renting I feel like they give me a board thats entirely too big, so this season I plan to buy my own. What size would you recommend for a 5″10 – 110 lb female? Any specific brands ?
Thanks so much !
Hey S
Thanks for your message. I’d say anything from a 142cm to 144cm in general. Though this could be slightly different depending on the brand but I would shoot for that range if I was you.
Check out my post at the link below to get an idea of some good options for beginners. I will be updating the post for 2016-17 boards. That post is for 2015-16 boards. But I’ll be updating it soon. Also, if you can get hold of a 2015-16 model you’ll be able to get it cheaper so wouldn’t be a bad move and not much would have changed from year to year especially in beginner decks.
>>Snowboarding Profiles Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
If you choose one of those boards, or any other board, and want a specific size recommendation, let me know and I’ll give you my opinion as to the best size for you.
Hope this helps
Hi.
Am 5’10 190lbs size 10, intermediate all mountain and was looking at the 2014 Niche Story 2.0 158cm, until I noticed its a mid-wide, 262mm. Now I have hesitated, and am thinking maybe its better to go with the 156cm as its waist is less at 258mm. What are your thoughts on which board I should get? Thanks.
Hey
A funny thing with Niche boards – they seem to ride narrower than they are. I’m also a size 10 boot and usually if I ride anything with a waist width anything like a 260mm I find it makes the board feel lethargic. However, with Niche boards I haven’t noticed that – not sure why.
I rode the 2017 Niche Story 159cm in the spring and that’s still got the 262mm waist width – but I didn’t find it slow to respond at all. For all I knew the waist could have been 255mm. Absolutely loved this board too, by the way.
Note that the 2014 Story came in a 156, 158 and 162. The 2017 comes in a 156, 159, and 162 – but all the waist widths are the same. So if you’re looking at the 2014 model, then I think that the 158cm would be the best size – even if the width seems wider than ideal.
Not sure where you’ve looked so far, but they’ve got the 2014 Story super cheap at snowboards.com at the moment which you can check out at the link below.
>>Niche Story at snowboards.com
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate. Thanks for posting this! I’m 6’2, about 210lbs without gear, size 11 feet. I’m a beginner and I’m looking at the Never Summer Snowtrooper X for all-mountain stuff. Would you recommend the 160cm or 164cm board? Thanks again!
Hey T Mac
I’d go with the 160cm. It will be much easier for you to learn on than the 164cm so you’ll progress way faster on it.
Hey Nate
Just a question about weight for a snowboard size. I am a female 5’7″ and 220lb and according to many charts I should be in a 159 but I am a new beginner and I was told at the store to get a women’s 152 board. According to the burton size chart i’m over the weight limit but what does this affect with the snowboard its self? I bought the Burton feel good 152 2015/2016 camber board which sounds like it’s a great board. Just curious for the weight what it affects.
Hi Kerry
The weight recommendations for boards are typically to with the flex and feel of the board. If you are above the weight recommendations, then the board will feel like it flexes more than how that board is labelled to flex. If you are under the weight recommendation then the board will flex less than what it’s labelled to do. For example a board that has a flex rating of 5/10 might feel more like a 3 or 4 out of 10 for someone who is over the weight recommendations and more like a 6 or 7 out of 10 for someone under the weight recommendations (with 1 being the softest flex and 10 being the stiffest).
I wouldn’t worry too much about this though. In fact the Burton Feelgood is a reasonably stiff flexing board for a women’s board – probably around a 6/10. For beginners I usually recommend something more like a 3 or 4 out of 10. So The fact that the board might feel softer than it’s designed to be is actually a good thing in your case.
And yes for a beginner snowboard you should definitely take off a few cms. I probably would have recommended something more like a 154 to 156cm for you rather than 152cm – but in saying that because of the board you bought (stiffer than I would normally recommend for a beginner) it’s not a bad thing that it’s a bit shorter than that.
Hope this makes sense.
hey i just got hooked up with the the soloman man’s board at 159 cm, im just wondering if this is too long for me.
im 130lb
size 9 boot
and the board height is just at the tip of my nose
Hey Gill
Sweet hook up!
Unfortunately that board is definitely too long for you. I would have you on a 153cm. Given your boot size it’s marginally too wide for you too. Also the Salomon Man’s Board is quite an aggressive board – fine if you ride aggressive and are a more advanced rider. But if you’re a beginner and like to ride more casually, then it wouldn’t be ideal even if it was a better size for you.
A sweet board to get hooked up with but I don’t think it’s the board for you. If I was you I’d sell the board (hopefully without offending the person who hooked you up) and get something that’s more suitable.
yikes okay thanks for the advice nate
You’re welcome Gill. Not what you wanted to hear I know! But I don’t want you to end up with the wrong gear.
If you are thinking of selling you could check out the following site for selling gear:
>>Gear Trade Buy and Sell Gear
I haven’t used this site before but they’ve got free listings and it looks like it’s pretty easy to list an item there.
Hey Nate!
Thank you for this great article, I learned a lot.
I know you have been answering so many questions lately but could you help me too?
I am a little confused. I’m a 1,68m female (5’6” I guess) and 56kg (123lbs).
I haven’t been snowboarding in years but I really want to pick it up again so I decided to get the RIDE compact 2015.
RIDE recommends the 147 board for 85-130lbs and the 150 board for 100-150lbs.
So I am in between both of these ranges but I am afraid that both of them will be either too short or too long.
I am kind of starting over again and really want to learn jumps and spend time in the park, which means I should go shorter, right?
But I also don’t want to lose control over the board while I go downhill or powder.
(I think overall it is going to be 50% park, 50% downhill)
Also I am afraid I will need a longer board as I get better. But I really want to keep and use this board longer than one or two seasons.
I am not sure what effect those 3cm board lenght will have but I just don’t want to take the wrong pick.
Could you help me? What are your thoughts on which board I should get?
Thank you and greetings for Germany!
Hi Theresa
Thanks for all the details, it makes it easy to make a recommendation.
I think the 147cm is best for you. You are correct that you should go shorter for the more freestyle stuff that you want to do. But 147 isn’t that short for you. It’s about right I’d say and would be a good size that will last you for as long as you need it, even as you improve.
A longer board will be better in powder and have more stability at speed – but will be more difficult in the park and more difficult to control, especially in the beginning. I would only put you on the 150cm if you were only going to be riding in the powder and downhill riding (and even then a 148-149 might be better). If you were purely in the park I would say something more like a 144cm. The 147cm is a good compromise between the two.
Hi Nate,
I am 5’9 and 165-170 lbs depending how many burritos I ate that day. I am eyeing last year’s burton custom twin. I am unsure whether to go with the 154, or the 156. I am looking to ride park, hit jumps and rails but also would like to be able to handle the mountain. Which size would you recommend for me? thanks for your help.
Hey Pat
I’d go with the 156cm. It should suit you better. Once you add your snowboard gear weight plus if you eat lots of Burritos that day, then you’d be outside the 154’s weight range! But seriously the 156 is the better bet for you.
It’s a couple of cms under your “all-mountain” length which will help you in the park but it’s a good balance to also help you to ride the rest of the mountain. I think the 158cm would be too long for you in the park and the 154 would be too short for the rest of the mountain so the 156 is the perfect middle ground.
Hope this helps. I’m trying to get into shape for the upcoming season so no Burritos unfortunately – have a Burrito for me!
Hi Nate
I was wondering if you could me some advice on a snowboard I would like to buy.
I have been riding for a few seasons now,have tried a few different boards but have yet to find one I really like. I’m 179cm and weigh around 73kg,which then states around a 157-159 board would work for me. however,I’m currently looking at a capita 154, flat between the feet and reverse camber on the nose and tail. Do you think this could be a wise choice? I’m looking at working on more freestyle skills this season,so I thought this board might be great for that.
Hey Kath
If you’re looking at doing more freestyle stuff, then the 154 should be a good size for you.
If you could let me know which Capita board you were looking at I could give you a better recommendation. Also if you could let me know your boot size, then I can just make sure that it won’t be too narrow. It’s great to size down for freestyle but we’ve just got to make sure the width doesn’t get too narrow – it’s usually fine, especially if you get a board designed for freestyle because the width is normally wider on shorter lengths when compared to other types of boards – because they know that people will be riding slightly shorter boards for freestyle purposes. So I don’t think it would be an issue but I want to make sure you get the right size board in terms of length and width.
Hi, thanks for getting back to me! it’s the capita indoor survival 2013 model,and I wear a size 8 boot
Hey Kath, you’re very welcome.
The Indoor Survival is technically a men’s board. But it’s actually a men’s board with a narrower than average waist width. Size 8 (I’m making the assumption that it’s Women’s US size 8) boots are probably still a little short to be ideal for that width but doable.
The Indoor Survival isn’t strictly a freestyle board but it can definitely ride freestyle (I’d class it as an all-mountain freestyle). I think that would be fine for your purposes though.
I’m guessing you’ve found the Indoor Survival 2013 for a cheap price?
I would say the Capita Space Metal Fantasy would be a better choice in the Capita line. It’s a more women’s specific board and is slightly narrower – definitely enough to make a difference. If the board is too wide it’s harder (physically and technically) to ride because your feet aren’t long enough to apply pressure right to the edges of the snowboard.
The Space Metal Fantasy comes in a 153, which would be fine for you and it’s also a bit more freestyle oriented.
I found the 2015-16 version on sale at the link below. Not sure if it’s as cheap as you found the 2013 Indoor Survival.
>>Capita Space Metal Fantasy
Here’s also the link to the latest model – though this will be at full price.
>>Capita Space Metal Fantasy 2016-17
I definitely wouldn’t say no to the Indoor Survival 154 – it wouldn’t be the worst fit at all. But also there are boards that would be a better fit, in my opinion, like the Space Metal Fantasy 153.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, Thanks for all the advice this has been actually super helpful! I’ve actually been riding men’s boards the entire time I’ve been snowboarding (because of cheap deals and I didn’t know what I wanted to ride haha) and I’ve been riding two wide mens boards for awhile now,so anything with a shorter width is going to be better? I also found the capita for cheap too. Sounds like it’s worth a shot then,thanks again!
Hey Kath.
Glad I could help. A narrower width (so long as it’s not too narrow) will make it easier to apply pressure to the edges so you can do more with less effort. I think the Space Metal Fantasy is definitely worth a shot. Go for it! And let me know how it goes for you.
Hi Nate – I’m 40 and have been riding all my life. I’ve come to the point where my height (5’8″) and weight (185lbs) don’t really match-up on the charts. I have size 9 feet and would consider myself an advanced rider (no park). I ride a 154 custom Flying V right now but am considering up-sizing to match my weight and riding style. Any thoughts on my current board length or recommendations for an up-sized length?
Great article – Cheers – Steve
Hey Steve
I think you would benefit from up-sizing a bit. The 154cm would be an ok length for you if you were doing more freestyle/park stuff but if that’s not your thing then I think an up-sizing would be a good idea. With the extra length you’ll gain (all else being equal) extra stability at speed, extra ability to ride faster and better float in powder.
I’m not a big fan of jumping up too much from what you’re used to. Going from a 154 to a 160 say would take quite a bit to get used to and the board would feel more difficult to maneuver and turn. But in saying that I think you would be better off with something longer.
Anything from a 156 to 158 I think would be a good range to look at.
If you don’t want to change too much at once then look for something with a similar flex and camber profile as your current board – in the case of the Flying V that would be a medium flex and a hybrid rocker profile.
Because you aren’t really into anything freestyle then I would suggest an all-mountain board. You can check out my top 10 all mountain boards at the link below if you want some options.
>>Snowboarding Profiles Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards for 2016-17
Hope this helps
Hi, I’m 20 (pretty much done growing). I’m 115lbs and 5’4. I’ve been boarding for 2 seasons but advance quick and am already past the beginner level. I am pretty into tricks and freestyle, I want to get better at park this season but, I want my board to hold up free-riding in powder, etc. I am thinking about getting the capita birds of a feather from 2015 since it’s now on sale. I am deciding between the 144-146 because the board i currently have is a 146. Do you think if i go with the 144 i would be okay? I don’t want to advance to the point where id want a bigger board and i dont want it to not hold up all around the mountain. What do you think?
Size 7 boots
Hi Marina
Thanks for your message.
I think that the 144 would be a good option for you. If you were purely doing freeriding, then the 146 is probably the better size and if you were going to ride purely in the park, then the 142 would be better. The 144 is a good compromise between the two sizes so I think this is your best bet.
The 146 is probably better in terms of waist width but you’ll get away with the width on the 144. What is the board that you currently ride? One 146 can ride differently to another – if you can let me know your current board I can better understand how much difference you’ll feel going from your 146 to the 144 Birds of a Feather.
I used the 146 burton lyric
Hey Marina
Yeah definitely go with the 144 Birds of a Feather. The 144 Birds of a Feather actually has more of an effective edge than the Lyric. It’s also going to be quite a bit stiffer in terms of flex and a bit more aggressive overall. Better for carving and speed but also better for jumps and riding switch.
But yeah it will be a stiffer more aggressive board overall and will actually have more effective edge in the 144 than the Lyric 146 has. So it’s not likely to feel like you’re down-sizing at all in terms of carving and speed but it will feel shorter for spins – which is what you want.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Great article. I just had a quick question. I’m about 5′ 8″ 155-160lbs.
I’ve only snowboarded once before. I found a really good deal on a used 151cm board. Would a board of that length be okay based on my weight?
Thanks,
Zain
Hi Zain
You’d probably get away with a 151 since you are a beginner. But that’s the lowest I would go for sure. Ideally I’d say more like a 152 to 154 but if you’ve got a really good deal on it then maybe you could go for it. The other thing is to make sure that it’s a suitable board for a beginner. A lot of beginners end up going out and buying a super-aggressive or super-stiff board and if you do that it makes it really tricky to learn on.
If you can let me know the name of the snowboard that you’re looking at I can give you a better idea whether or not it will be suitable.
Also some boards ride longer and shorter than others (if that makes sense!) so if I know the brand and model of the board I can give you a more accurate recommendation.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your quick response. I really appreciate the help.
I found a Salomon Driver 155 snowboard which i bought used for about $80. The board is in really good shape.
I had a question about bindings, the board came with some world industries bindings which, from what I’ve read, are terrible. Do you have any recommendations for bindings?
Thanks,
Zain
Hi Zain
I don’t know anything about World Industries bindings so I won’t say anything either way.
Check out my list of what I consider the top 5 bindings for beginners at the link below. Hopefully you can find something in there suitable.
>>Top 5 Men’s Beginner Snowboard Bindings
Hi Nate,
It’s so nice that you help people with their choice! May I ask for your advice as well.
I’m more leaning towards a free-ride style. I’ve been riding for several years and now gonna to buy new Jones Flagship. My height is 183cm and weight 82kg, hence based on the table I should take 161cm. However, would you recommend to downsize to 158cm or better to stay with my standard length.
Many thanks in advance!
All the best,
Max
Hey Max
I would go for the 161cm. Not just because of the charts below but also the Flagship weight recommendations are:
~130-180 lbs(59-82 kg) for the 158cm; and
~140-190 lbs (64-86 kg) for the 161cm
You’re right on the edge for the 158 in terms of their weight recommendations and once you have all your snowboarding gear on you’ll be over it. The extra length from the 161 as opposed to the 158 will also give you better float in powder and more stability at speed.
That said, if you would class yourself as more of an intermediate rider – or if you know that you have a preference for shorter length boards, then the 158cm isn’t out of the question but I think that the 161 is more suitable.
If you class yourself as advanced, then definitely go with the 161cm. Some riders of your height/weight might even go for the 164. The reason being that some people like to add length to their freeride boards – and you’d still be well within the weight recommendations for the 164 (160-210 lbs [73-95 kg]).
However, if going to a 161 is already sizing up for you, then definitely stick with the 161cm.
Just to make sure that you won’t need a wide version can you let me know your boot size (in US sizes preferably)?
Long story short, I think the 161 is the best size for you. If you are sizing up from your current board, then it will take a bit to get used to but it will be better in the long run for the type of riding you’ll be doing on the flagship
Hope this helps
Great! My boot (US) size is 11, seems to be in line with normal 161.
Thanks a lot, Nate!
You’re very welcome.
Yeah you will be fine on the regular width Flagship 161.
Hi there, I’m a female who is 5’3″- 5’4″ and about 195lbs. I’m looking to go snowboarding for the first time ever this upcoming season, but I’ve been having a hard time deciding on what size I should get for a board seeing as I’m short but heavy. From the chart, I see that I should get a 154-155cm standard. Do you have any suggestions on brands or types that would be suitable for a beginner who is heavier ? I don’t want to get a board and end up snapping it bc of my weight !
Hi Katey
Firstly it’s usually a good idea to take off a few centimeters as a beginner rider – it will make the board easier to control. So something closer to a 152cm is probably best, anything from a 151 to 153cm would be ideal.
Some might be tempted to say to go with a men’s board – but the problem with that is that most men’s boards will be too wide. When a board is too wide it’s hard to turn because your feet aren’t close enough to the edges to apply pressure, so I wouldn’t go there.
It’s always a bit harder to find something suitable when your outside the “normal” but I think I found something that would definitely be suitable – the GNU Velvet Gnuru.
The Velvet Gnuru 153cm specfically. This board has a recommended weight range of 80lbs to 170lbs+. I definitely wouldn’t worry about snapping it. It will definitely be able to hold up. The only thing with being outside of the weight recommendations is that the board will flex differently than if you were within the weight range. So if you are below the weight recommendations, then the board will feel stiffer and if you’re above then the board will feel softer. Still with me?
Ok. So, generally speaking you’d want a softer flexing board as a beginner. Something that’s either soft or medium-soft. The Velvet Gnuru is a medium flex board. But if you are above the weight recommendations it will feel softer flexing than that. So it will feel more like medium-soft – which is exactly what you want as a beginner.
Everything else about the Velvet Gnuru is also suitable for a beginner so I think this would definitely be a great choice for you. You can learn more about it at the link below.
>>GNU Velvet Gnuru
If you need any clarification of any of this let me know. But if you want to take my word for it, I think this would be a great option.
Hope this helps
Thanks for getting back to me and clarifying the adding/subtracting of board height and the flexing. I’ll definitely look into that board. thanks again for the help !
You’re very welcome Katie. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hello,
It is going to be my first winter snowboarding and I’m starting to look at Snowboard types and I think the person at the shop told me the wrong size that I would need as she just based the board as being between my chin and nose. After some research I found out that was wrong and thankfully didn’t buy a board that day.
I am 5ft tall and 165lbs. I am also an absolute beginner. I haven’t snowboarded once in my life. The place I will be starting out at is a mountain resort (don’t know specifically what type of terrain that would be). Any advice would be appreciated!
Hey Danni
You were right not to go by that advice. Judging size between the chin and nose is very old school! Some stores and rental places still go by this – either because they don’t know better or because it’s the fastest way to get people through the door. Now that doesn’t mean that you might not end up with a board that length – but you might not as well – it’s an inaccurate way of doing it. Weight is more important than height when it comes to snowboards.
Based on your height/weight and the fact that you’re a beginner. I’d say anything from a 146 to 148cm would be suitable.
Check out my list of top 5 snowboards for beginners at the link below – this would be a good place to start.
>>Top 5 Women’s Snowboards for Beginners
Let me know if you have any other questions.
How’s it going? I’m having a rough go at trying to find any advise that pertains directly to me, given I’m not your typical size. I’m 6’7″ 235LBS. I see everywhere that weight is the biggest factor. Given my height is this still true? I know for sure I need a wide. Just not sure on the length I should use. I’m a beginner, but I have been snowboarding before. Thanks in advance.
Hi Josh
It’s definitely a bit harder to find stuff when you’re not within the typical size. Weight is definitely the biggest factor but height plays some part too.
Because you’re a beginner you do want to go shorter with your board – so that will help when trying to find gear.
I’d go with something around a 163 to 165cm board. It also somewhat depends on the weight recommendations of the board but in your case I wouldn’t pay too much attention to that.
What I would do though is look for a board with a medium flex that you are outside of the weight recommendations for. The reason for this is that a medium-soft flexing board is the best for beginners. But if you get on a medium-soft flex board that is meant for a lighter person, then it will feel softer than that. If you go for a medium flex but you are above the weight recommendations, then that board will feel like it has a softer flex.
I hope that makes sense. By going for a medium flex board you can get something shorter (which will make the board easier to maneuver and easier to learn on) but you still get a softer flex (but not too soft) which also makes the board more forgiving and also easier to learn on.
You’ll want to also look for a board with either a hybrid camber, flat-to-rocker or hybrid rocker profile – it’s difficult to learn on a trad camber or all flat board because they are easy to catch an edge on – and a continuous rocker board is too loose feeling. O.k. I know that’s a lot of info! Check out the links below to get a better understanding.
>>Camber types
>>Choosing a snowboard for a beginner
Usually I’d direct beginners to my top 5 beginner snowboards but in your case I’d look at the following. Find something that’s in your size and make sure that it has a medium flex if you are above or towards the top of the weight recommendations. And also make sure that it will be ok for a beginner by reading the article above about choosing a beginner snowboard.
>>Top 5 All Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
>>Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hope this helps – let me know if you find something that you think is suitable and I can double check for you.
I was kind of looking between these two. I’m trying to stay away from spending too much since its my first board. Maybe as I get more experienced I can upgrade down the road.
http://www.the-house.com/9859rdwldlw16zz-ride-snowboards.html
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I8MUOIY/ref=crt_ewc_img_dp_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AU8KF031TC39C
Hey Josh
Those are decent options. I think the YES Basic would be the slightly better beginner board but the Wild Life is probably a better flex in terms of being closer to medium, like I was saying in the other post – where the Basic is closer to Medium soft. That said, you’re not really much over the weight recommendations, if at all for the Wild Life. YES don’t publish weight recommendations unfortunately.
For both I would say the 163W is the best option.
I found the 2016 Wild Life slightly cheaper at the following link.
>>Ride Life 2016 at evo
I couldn’t find the 2016 version of the YES Basic in your size but there are some other store options in the links below for the 2017, in case you didn’t want to buy at amazon (not that you necessarily wouldn’t).
>>YES Basic at evo.com
>>YES Basic Wide at Backcountry.com
Let me know if you have any other questions or if you find any other boards you think might be suitable.
hello, I am 177-176 tall and my weight is 80 kg. I ride rails and jump and sometimes pow, but I mainly ride rails. What size should I have on my snowboard. I think maybe a salomon buck knife 152 or 155? what do you think?
I meant huck knife
Hi Jackob
That’s a tough one because you really want to size down for riding rails and go longer for riding pow!
Ideally you’d have a different board for each. But if you only want to have one board – then size it for jibbing as it sounds like that’s what you will be doing more of and you can still ride pow of course but it just won’t be as good as if you had a longer board/more suited to powder board.
In either case I think the 155cm would be best.
That said, I think there are better boards if you mostly ride rails. You should also try the following which are more jib specialists.
>>Capita Horrorscope 153cm
>>Capita Ultafear 153cm
>>Lib Tech Box Scratcher 154cm
HI Nate
Very good article. I need your advice. Im 115lbs 5’4″ and currently using Gnu Ladies Choice 145.5cm. Im an intermediate rider. Im looking to buy Gnu Klassy for an upcoming trip to Japan and deciding between 148 or 151. I tried my friends Libtech Trs 151cm and really liked it. Would 151cm be ok for me for all mountain and powder. Thanks!
Hi Joan
Normally I wouldn’t recommend a 151 for your specs, even for powder. That said, if you liked the TRS in a 151, then it’s not off the cards. Personal preference is certainly a part of it.
In some ways the Klassy is similar to the TRS is different. It has the XC2 camber profile – which the TRS has. And it will have a similar flex.
However, the TRS is a true twin with a centered stance. The Klassy has a Directional Shape and a Stance setback of 1.5″ (38mm). This will make the Klassy better when it comes to floating in powder – so more suitable for what you want to do than the TRS.
So – in general a longer board is better for powder – but there’s a trade off with maneuverability. The fact that the Klassy is already more suited to powder might mean that the 148 is actually going to be fine. The other thing that’s worth noting is that the TRS 151N has an effective edge (the amount of the edge that makes contact with the snow) of 1120mm and the Klassy 151 has an effective edge of 1150mm. The Klassy 148 has an effective edge of 1130 – which is closer to that of the TRS 151N.
My only concern with going for the Klassy in the 151 is that you will have more trouble when on groomers with that extra effective edge, when compared with the TRS you rode. It would be fine in the deep stuff.
Ordinarily, I would straight away say the 148 for sure – based purely on your specs and what you want to use it for – but because you tried the TRS 151N and liked it, it made me have to think about it a bit more.
If I had to make a call based on the facts, I’d say the 148 is, only just, the better bet. It’s still going to give you a bit of extra length for the oodles of powder that I hope you get in Japan! but just because of the type of board and the effective edge, I think that the 148 will be a better balance overall.
Sorry about the “think-out-loud” style of this reply (got me thinking this one!) – I hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate
Thank you so much for the awesome advise and solid info. The effective edge is very interesting! I will go with 148 :). Thank you again, this was extremely helpful.
You’re very welcome.
Let me know what you think of the Klassy once you’ve had a chance to ride it – and have an awesome trip to Japan!
Hi Nate,
I am struggling to decide between the 144 and the 147 Nitro Fate 2016 in the roofchop camber. I am about 5′ 2″ and weigh around 115lbs without gear. I am an intermediate rider trying to really push myself this season to get better. I am looking for an all-mountain board that offers stability at higher speeds but can handle backcountry with no problem. The weight recommendation for the 144 is under 130 lbs and for the 147 its under 145 lbs.
My biggest concern is maneuverability because I currently ride a 138. I have had a couple of people in stores tell me to get the 147 but I am worried about it overpowering me as it can handle up to 145 lbs.
I was just wondering if you thought either of these sizes in this board would be good for me or if I should keep looking for a better fit?
Thank you so much for your help!
Lacey
Hey Lacey
I think that the 144 would be best for you for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, it’s just a better size for your height/weight in my opinion.
Secondly, you are transitioning from a 138 – it’s a huge difference going to a 147. I think the 147 is too long for you regardless but also it’s a big stretch to go from 138 to 147!
Maybe if you wanted a powder board that you rode predominantly in powder and weren’t going to be doing much on hard park, then the 147 would be suitable. But that would normally be the case if you wanted to get a powder board as a second board that you just rode on powder days. For an all-mountain board to ride on the groomers and in the backcountry the 144 is definitely a better size.
That’s my opinion anyway. Hope it helps.
Hi Nate I’ve been riding for a couple of years now and looking at getting the jones ultra mountain twin
I ride 50% park and 50% groomers and powder
I’m tossing up between the 154 and the 157
Any recommendations?
Tough choice I know
Also I’m 70kg and 5,9″
Hey Mitch
Touch choice for sure because you’re 50% park and 50% groomers and powder. I think either would be fine. The 157 will be better for the groomers and riding powder and the 154 would be definitely better in the park.
Though it’s close I’d say that the 154 is overall the best choice but only just.
Hi Nate
I`m 5′ 2”, weight 100 lbs and 6.5 boot size. I`m a beginner closer to intermediate looking for an all-mountain board, not necessarily into speed.
I currently ride my friend’s board 141, which is a free-ride board with a medium or a stiff flex and I have some problems making turns.
I can’t decide between Raven Infinity 138 and Raven Infinity 141, the board has a soft flex.
What do you think?
Hi Adina
Thanks for your message. I think the 138 would be a better bet. A softer flexing board will be easier to turn anyway but I still think for you that the 138 would be a better size.
I am confused about one thing though. You say you are looking at Raven Infinity? Do you mean Never Summer Raven OR Infinity? Also neither of those boards come in a 138 or a 141 as far as I can see. Can you send me a link to where you are looking for these boards?
Cancel that – I just realized that you meant Raven as in the brand Raven. Funny that there’s a board called Raven Infinity and Never Summer have an Infinity and a Raven board!
In that case, yeah I’d go for the 138. I’m not that familiar with Raven boards but based on the specs, this board will be way easier to ride and turn than a stiffer flexing freeride board, even in the 141 but I think the 138 is still a better size.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
This post is really helpful, but I’m still a little confused. My boyfriend and I are relative beginners – we had lessons at the end of last year and have visited the indoor slope about once or twice a month ever since. We have our first boarding holiday booked for Finland in January, and we’re really looking to progress. So far we’ve both been riding rentals, and then second hand boards that probably aren’t the best fit for us, so we’re looking to buy new beforehand.
I had the Burton Feelgood Flying-V recommended to me so I bought an ex-demo 149, which I’ve yet to ride, but have since been told it’s not a good board for beginners, particularly on hard snow/ice, which I already struggle with in the snow dome. I’m looking to return the board, and am really interested in the Rossignol Frenemy, but I’m confused about their sizing. I’m 5’7” and about 135-140lb (without snowboard gear). My boots are a UK size 7 (US9). According to their guidelines I’d need a 153, which seems quite long given I learned on a 149, and everywhere I’ve been since has recommended around a 149-150. My current second-hand board is a Burton Feather 154 (2006) and I find it really difficult to turn.
My partner has the same problem – he’s interested in the Templar, but the Rossignol website implies he’d be far too heavy for the longest standard width – a 158, and would need a wide, which would then be too big for his feet. He is 6’0 and about 195-200lbs, with UK size 9.5 boots. Do you have any advice for us? As beginners, should we always go for the shorter option, or would the extra weight/softer flex cause problems in the long-run? Hope you can help! Many thanks.
Hi Kate
Thanks for your message.
I think that the Frenemy is a good choice for you. It is great for harder snow and icy conditions and its a great board to progress on. It’s good for beginners and will take you through to a more advanced level. I agree that the 153cm is too long for you. The 150cm would be the better option. I wouldn’t worry too much about their weight recommendations. ROssignol’s weight recommendations tend to be on the lighter side compared to other snowboard companies. You are inside the recommendations for the 150cm and that’s the size I think you are best to go with.
The 154 feather you have is too long for you in my opinion and I think you’ll really appreciate the shorter length. The Feel Good Flying V you have is a better size but I agree with whoever told you it wasn’t the best beginner board – it’s not really the best to start out on and it’s also not the best in hard and icy conditions. I think that the Frenemy is a really good choice and that the 150cm will be perfect for you in terms of length. My only concern would be the width but I think you’ll be ok. I wouldn’t go any narrower than that but I think you’ll get away with it. Just make sure that your bindings are centered so that there’s even toe and heel drag and if you can’t get it even make the toe overhang less than the heel overhang and not the other way around.
For your boyfriend I think something around that 158 to 160 mark is a good size for him in general. But he’s a bit above the range for the 158 Templar. If you are above the weight recommendations by too much then it starts effecting the flex of the board. The board will feel softer underfoot than it’s supposed to. That’s fine if you go with a board that has a flex rating that is slightly stiffer than you want it and then it will feel softer and that’s fine.
With UK9.5 boots he’s on the cusp between regular width and mid-wide. The Templar 159W has a waist width of 260mm. I would consider this more of a mid-wide than a wide. If he goes with the Templar, then I think the 159W would actually be the best bet. I find with US10.0 boots (Uk9.0) that I can ride anything up to around a 260mm ok. Anything above that and it’s too wide. I think 260mm would be the widest that I would recommend for him but I think that would actually be fine.
Long story short: If you go with the Frenemy and Templar (both great for progressing on and in hard/icy conditions) then I would say.
Frenemy: 150
Templar: 159W
The Frenemy is on the narrow side for you but the length is fine. The Templar is on the wide side for him but the length is also fine.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate. That really helps. I’ve tried to find boards with a wider waist that would still be a good all-rounder for me to progress on, but I’ve struggled. I’m guessing the alternative would be to opt for a men’s board, but I’m not massively keen on the idea. I may need to buy new boots at some point anyway as I’m having problems with mine (Burton Mints) – my toes are going numb and my heels are really lifting. I’m generally a UK 6.5 in normal shoes (I measured my foot for mondo sizing at 257mm), but went with the 7, and they still feel far too snug on my toes. I do have narrow feet and high arches, so I’m going to try some orthotics and J-bars, but if these don’t work I may have to opt for new ones, in which case I will try and find some with a lower profile and a better fit so I can stick with the narrower ladies’ boards.
Thanks again for your advice
Hi Kate
You’re very welcome. You shouldn’t have to revert to a man’s board. Let me know if you’re still having trouble deciding on a board and I can give you some more options. Let me know how you go with the orthotics and j bars in your boots too.
Hi Nate
I am planning to surprise my wife with a new snowboard this season. We were pretty much into skiing the last few years but now want to go back to our roots.
I have already decided on the brand and the board which is the Capita Birds of a feather. I like the company and the board seems to be a good choice for an advanced allmountain rider.
I am torn between the size 144, 146 and 148 – what is your recommendation?
Here are the measures:
Weight: 150 pounds (68kg)
Height: 5’3” (168cm)
Boot size: 7.5 US (38 EUR)
Rider Level: Advanced woman
Rider Type: Allmountain (groomers and offpiste)
Thank you and kind regards from Switzerland!
Silvio
Hi Silvio
Awesome gift for your wife – she will be stoked!
In terms of size I think that the 148 would be the best for sure. Given that your wife is advanced and likes that style of riding and based on her weight and height, then I think that the 148 would suit her the best.
Hello,
I’ve been boarding for a few seasons now. And I’m planning to buy a new board.
My old board is a (k2) Liquid 152 or 154cm (I don’t remember), I do mostly park riding. I am 5’11, and 170ish lbs.
Do you think I should stick with a 152-54cm board, or should I try to size up or down?
I have a longboard/skate background, and for this, I like a shorter board to maneuver better. Not sure if this would be the same for snowboarding.
Thanks for the advice!
Hi Nathan
It depends on the board but in general I’d say anything from a 153 to 156 would be a good size for you, given that you mainly like to ride the park.
But does depend on the board to some extent too. Some park boards are made to ride smaller.
It also depends on what you like to do. If you get out of the park quite a bit then a bit longer would benefit you (if you didn’t have a separate board for that).
If you prefer shorter for longboarding, I imagine it could be similar for snowboarding – but don’t quote me on that, I’m not a longboarder.
Hope this helps. If you find a board that you like feel free to let me know and I can recommend a size for that particular board.
Hi there,
Another specific question for you! I am wondering about a board and whether or not it would simply be too small for me. Here is the information:
Board: Sims Pristine 2014, 147 cm
Weight: 145-150 lbs (no gear)
Height: 5’5
Ability: Intermediate (haven’t boarded in a few years but from past experience, I expect to be comfortable after a few runs and then looking for little jumps after a few days back on the hill)
Focus: Mostly all-mountain with small jumps found along the way
Conditions: Upstate New York – mostly visiting Adirondacks/Vermont/Quebec hills (icy?)
Is 147cm on the smaller side and should I be looking for something closer to 150cm or another size altogether? Or do you think i might actually enjoy this board since I’m not seeking max speeds but more a casual fun ride?
Thanks so much!!!
Hi Nestle
It’s on the smaller side for you but not in a major way. I would say something around a 150cm normally but if you like you’re riding casual and aren’t worried about speed or aren’t likely to see or go into much powder, then I think it will be absolutely fine for you.
I don’t follow Sims boards so I can’t comment on the board itself but I think the size will be fine.
Hi Nate:
This is a great site that you have here. I like the detail on length and width, it’s very interesting.
I’m 6’0″, 160 lbs, with size 11.5 boots, I ride trees, steeps, and powder. I’m all about powder in the trees, and mainly ride storm days and a few spring days except when I travel.
My current board is a NS Raptor 164, and it’s great but seems a bit narrow (25.3 cm waist). I think my older boards were more like 25.8 cm width.
I’m looking at a Never Summer Twenty Five X. I’ve been riding 163-165 cm boards for years, but this will be my first wide board so I could use a bit of help in deciding on size.
I’m looking at a 159X (26.2 cm waist) vs. 163X (26.5 cm waist). Based on my freeride/powder nature, I would lean towards the 163X (based on length), but I’m afraid that it might be harder to turn in the trees. The 159X seems like a better width and would have about the same surface area as my Raptor, but may be a bit short?
What do you think? Any advice would be appreciated
Hi Mark
If was you I actually like the look of the 159W. I know that’s moving down a bit from what you’re used to but the extra width will add stability and a bit of float. It will also mean that the board isn’t as maneuverable/as fast from edge to edge as a narrower version would be.
So going down to the 159 will take away the stability/float advantages of the longer size but will add them back in because of the width. The shorter 159 will also add back maneuverability.
That said I don’t think that the width on the 163W would be too wide – on the wider side for you but still within an acceptable range. But Adding width to a board size that you would normally ride and it might take a bit more effort to get from edge to edge – which you want to be doing quickly by the sounds of it.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the advice – very helpful – Mark
You’re very welcome. Hope you have a great season!
Hi Nate, I’m 15 and I am a beginner snowboarder, i have gone down the slopes a couple time before but i’m not an expert by any means. I am starting a job at a local terrain park where i’ll instruct little kids ages 4-12 how to snowboard. before I start the job i will go through 2 weeks of on and off snow training with the employees there. I have been scrambling to get all my gear as i need it to train and i recently just bought a 145 Burton Genie. I and 5’1 and 110 pounds, i would’ve probably gone smaller like 140, but i got such an amazing deal on the board, i couldn’t pass it up. Do you think this is too big for me, at first i thought it would be but since i”m still growing and i’ll be trained by expert boarders it might be ok,plus with all my gear on that extra weight, what do you think?
Hi Leighton
I would prefer to see you on something shorter – more like 139cm to 141cm. 4cm to 5cm can make quite a bit of difference. I know that’s not what you want to hear. I’m not a big believer in getting a bigger board that you’ll grow into – I think it’s better to get a board that will suit you for now and then sell it later and upgrade to a longer size.
Not what you want to hear I know. It’s not to say you won’t be able to learn on it – but I just think it will be more difficult to learn on and will make the learning process a bit slower. You do have professional instructors so that’s certainly in your favor.
I’d personally try to get something smaller to start with. Probably not the answer you want to hear and it’s up to you of course, but that’s what I would do.
Hi, thanks, you’re right not really what I want to hear but I want to make sure I have the right board. Especially since this is only the training and how I ride and how quickly I learn from their critique will make or break them officially giving me the job and i don’t want to make that even harder with too long of a board. I have found two boards that will possibly work, both sold on Ebay and both brand new. One is a one year newer Burton Genie in a 142, and the other is a black and purple Burton LTR in a 138, I know quite a bit about the Burton genie as its what I’ve got now but since its a newer version it might be a bit different, overall I’ve heard the Burton genie is good for beginners, the Burton LTR honestly I’ve never heard of it before, could you tell me a little bit about that snowboard and maybe which one to get? Thanks!
Hi Leighton
The I don’t know that much about the LTR except that it’s used a lot as a hire board. Which makes me want to avoid it altogether.
I would go for the Burton Genie 142. It will definitely make a difference to the 145 and it will be a better option than the LTR in my opinion. Whilst for other boards, I would say to go even lower than 142, the Genie has a shorter effective edge (as a ratio to the length) than most boards which help to make it easier to ride, so the 142 should be a good board for you to learn on.
Hope this helps and good luck for your training and I hope you get the job and have an awesome season!
Hi. I would like to get a recommendation for sizing deck. I’m looking for DOA, Capita.
Here are the measures:
Weight: 194 pounds (88kg)
Height: 5’9” (176cm)
Rider Level: intermediate
Rider Type: Free-Stylers
last season I used to ground trick.
but now I don’t want ground trick. This is not funny for me.
my riding style is that
love to hit jumps(Actually beginner for jumps), like to try to pipe this season.
sometimes jibbing. a bit riding with friends.
I’m heavy little bit.
I’m wondering which size will fit to me?
156 158 160 (DOA)
Actually Capita doesn’t provide weight range for thier deck.
I’m planning to lose my weight to 180lb.
but I wear some gears weihgt would be 190lb, I guess.
please recommend your opinion. 🙂
Hi Joe
I would go for the 158cm for the DOA for you.
Enjoy the board and have a great season!
Hi Nate!
I’ve been snowboarding for 5 years. My current board is quite stiff camber 132 cm board, and I’d like to learn some flatground tricks (butter), but my current board doesn’t perform well, so I decided to buy softer board. I’m buying Capita Micro scope and can’t decide between 130cm or 135cm. (Micro scope is soft flat/rocker board.)
My height is 152 cm (100lb), my weight is 45,5 kg (without gear), my boot size is US 7.
I ride park (boxes, mini rails and smaller/medium jumps) and slopes – 60% park and 40 % downhill…
I’m afraid that 130 cm will be too short, so I would lose balance on landing jumps, but on the other hand, 135 cm is longer than my current snowboard, so I’m afraid that I will have problems with rotation tricks…
What do you think? I would really appreciate your advice 🙂
Hi Leah
I think the 135cm would be the better size for you. It might take a day to get used to the extra length on your current snowboard but because the Micro Scope is softer and has a more mellow camber profile it probably won’t feel that much longer. In fact the 135 micro-scope might even feel the same size or smaller than your current board depending on a couple of factors.
I think the 130 is a bit short for you and the width on the 135 will be better too. For spins the 130 will still be better but I think overall the 135 is the better size for you. For landing jumps and general riding you’ll definitely appreciate the 135 over the 130.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nathan,
I’m 5’9 200lbs just getting back into riding after being away from the snow for 10 years. What’s a good size board for 60 park 40 groomers. I was looking at a funslinger either a 154 w or a 157w.
Hi Matthew
If you need a wide board, then I’d go for the 157 – I think this would strike the best balance between park and groomers for you. But if you can let me know what size boots you wear so I can recommend whether you should go for a wide or a regular width, that would be great.
If it turns out your better off on a regular width, then I’d say that the 156 is your best bet.
I’m a size 10.5, I was thinking maybe with the extra surface area of a wide I could go shorter. I like the never summer type two as well. I have narrowed my choices between the funslinger and type two. What’s your take on each?
Hi Matthew
Yeah you can go shorter on a wider board and often park boards are made that way – to be a bit wider and a bit shorter, to give you a shorter length better for spins but still enough of a stable landing surface for landing tricks. The downside, if your feet aren’t long enough for the width of the board is that you loose out a bit in terms of edge-to-edge transition. If your feet are too far inside the edges of the board, then it takes more effort to apply pressure to the edges of the board. Now to counter that somewhat you want to make sure that your bindings are going edge to edge.
I’m usually reluctant to go for a wide board because I don’t like the feel (but I’ve got 10.0s so a slightly smaller size). They feel more lethargic to me.
That said, it doesn’t mean you couldn’t go for the 154W. It would be easier to spin but you would sacrifice out of the park performance.
I like the 156 for you. If you were purely groomers, then I’d say a 159 would be a good size (in a board other than the Funslinger) and if you were purely going to be in the park, then I would say possible the 154W. I think the best size overall would be the 156 regular but I think you’d still do well out of the 154W but it would be a different feel.
The Proto Type Two is a fantastic board in my opinion. I really enjoyed riding it. It’s a bit stiffer (but still medium flex, where I’d say the Funslinger is medium-soft) and a bit quicker edge-to-edge. Slightly less freestyle oriented but still a good freestyle board – but better outside the park than the Funslinger. I would say these are the differences
1. Both boards are excellent when it comes to riding switch and for jumps.
2. Funslinger better for jibs
3. Proto Type 2 better for carving and better at speed
For the Proto Type Two you’d probably want to weight up between the 157 regular width – and the 155W.
Hope this gives you more information to make your decision.
My daughter is 5’3 180lbs and I need a board for her for xmas and I don’t know what size to get. She’s 15 and a beginner 😞
Hi Tina
Thanks for your message. I think that anything from a 147 to a 150 would be a good range to look at. It can depend on the board too. But because she is a beginner I wouldn’t go any longer than a 150cm. In terms of weight recommendations for snowboards she probably isn’t going to fit inside of those for those sizes but they are just guidelines and height does come into it somewhat.
It’s also important to get a board that is easy to ride for beginners. Check out the first link below to learn how to pick a good snowboard for a beginner and/or the second link which is my top recommended women’s beginner snowboards.
>>How to Choose the Best Snowboard for a Beginner
>>The Top 5 Beginner Snowboards for Women
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m 5’3 and 140 pounds, and I’m confused about what size snowboard I should be looking at getting.
I’m an intermediate snowboarder who really enjoys freestyle riding. I just rented a 135cm board and actually really enjoyed it and felt like I had a lot of control, and could move in ways that I wouldn’t be able to with a bigger sized board. But according to your chart I should get a 149 board, or would be in the 143-146 range for freestyle, which is still way bigger than a 135 that I used. Any advice?
Hi James
Thanks for your message. Sometimes the size of your board comes largely down to personal preference. If you really enjoyed riding the 135cm board, then something closer to that size might be what you have the most fun on. This is a guideline for those not sure of what to get and is only general. If you prefer a much shorter board like that, then go with it.
It can also depend on the type of the board for how long it actually feels. Stiffness, side cut, effective edge etc can affect how long a board feels too. But yeah, if you prefer a certain size in a board, then go with it.
The only thing I would say is that it may not float as well in powder or be as stable at speed as a longer board – but if you don’t really do those types of things, then it’s not an issue. This is also another reason why having more than one board is a great idea. You could have your 135 for freestyle stuff and get a slightly longer board for more freeride oriented stuff.
Great, thanks so much! I think I’m going to look for something around the range of 140 then.
Cool. Sounds like a good middle ground
Hey Nate,
Great article. I’ve been skiing/snowboarding for about 6 years and usually just borrow gear but am getting my own board and gear for Christmas. 23 yrs old, 6 ft 1, and about 190lbs. I’m looking at the Rossignol Angus 2016 and I usually hit the park for most of my time but definitely like to carve and hit some diamonds and just regular trails as well. Do you think a 160 would be alright for me?
Thanks!
Hi Andrew
Thanks for your message. I think the 160 would be a good size for you. You’re right at the top of Rossi’s weight recommendations for that length of that board but I tend to take Rossi’s weight recommendations with a bit of a grain of salt – they are notoriously on the light side. And because you incorporate a lot of park riding you’ll want a slightly shorter deck.
You could even go down to a 158 if you’re in the park most of the time but the 160 will be better for when your out carving.
Can you also let me know your boot size? Just want to make sure that the width will be ok for you too.
my shoe size is 10.5, and awesome I think I am going to go with the 158.
Thanks Andrew. You should be fine on the 158 in terms of width with the 158. Enjoy your new board!
Hi Nate, I am going to be getting the Rossignol Myth Amptek Snowboard. (
I am 110lbs, 5’1′ and a 16 years old female; I am deciding between 139 and 144. I will mostly just be doing mountain and groomers. I don’t want to get a new board until this one has really been used. Which do you think would be best.
Hi Whit
I think that the 139 is your best bet. It’s on the high-end of Rossi’s weight recommendations but their recommendations are notoriously light, IMO.
I imagine at your age you might still be growing? But even so I think the 144 will be too long for you and that will make the board more difficult to ride and harder to maneuver. I think that the 144 will be too long for you.
But I think that the 139 will still give you plenty of years. If you wanted a board for right now and were willing to get a new one shortly then I’d say a 135 to 137 would be best for you (not in the Myth because they don’t make those size – but just in general). I think the 139 is a good balance between being something you can grow into but not being so long that it stunts your progress.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi, Nate! Thanks for such a detailed weight/height table; it definitely gets confusing for us beginners. 🙂 Keep up the great work!
My question is regarding buying a Rossignol Frenemy board. I know you had a few questions above about Rossignol’s sizing, but hope you don’t mind answering it for me specifically.
Height: 5’5″/165cm
Weight: ~145lbs? My scale’s broken. I’m usually ~140lbs, but I think I still have Thanksgiving pounds….
Shoe size: 7.5 US
Experience: One winter, still pretty beginner. Can easily do S turns on green/blue but working on carving and posture.
Riding style: Mainly Midwest groomers with hard snow but want to progress to ground tricks, small jumps. Don’t enjoy bombing down runs (used to ski) and don’t expect to do much park.
I’m debating a 147cm or 150cm Rossignol Frenemy, though their chart puts me more at a 153cm. My legs are pretty short though, and I’ve only learned on 145/146cm boards. The 150cm seems more appropriate but I’m worried about stance width and the ability to do tricks.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Jennifer
For you I certainly wouldn’t go longer than the 150cm. In my opinion Rossi’s weight recommendations run on the light side. I think a 153cm would definitely be too long for you.
I would actually be leaning towards the 147cm. This is because you are a beginner and also you don’t like to bomb. A bit of extra length is good for stability at speeds and for getting extra speed – but if you don’t intend to be riding that fast you won’t need that extra length. In any case, it’s always better to start out on a shorter board anyway.
I think you’d be o.k. on the 150cm. Definitely no to the 153cm. But I think the 147cm would be the best size. The 240mm waist width should be just right for your boots too.
Thanks, Nate! I think I’ll go with the 147. And now off to stalk the rest of your site…..
Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays Jennifer!
Enjoy the rest of the site and hope you enjoy your new snowboard
Nate!
I am also looking at buying a board, and found a nice one on Craigslist. However, I am 5′-7″ – 5′-8″ and 170-180 lbs. The board I like is 160cm. I have never bought a snowboard myself and have always ridden the 156 and 158’s from rental spots.
Is 160 going to be too big of a jump?
Hi Sam
I think the 160 might be a bit long. But this is generally speaking. It would depend on the board. If you can give me the brand and model of board (and model year if you know it) that would help to give you a more accurate recommendation.
Also, if you were an experienced rider and were on the freeride end of the specturm (likes riding fast, riding the backcountry, powder, steeps, bowls etc) rather than freestyle, then a 160 is probably a good size (again depending on the board). So if you can let me know your ability level and your style (how you like to ride), I can give you a better recommendation.
In general, I’d say it’s just a bit long, IMO, but if you can give me those details, I can say for sure.
I would like to say I am no longer a beginner. I have learned to ride rails, but am not comfortable going off jumps bigger jumps (Typically I stay away from the terrain park anyway). I have never ridden back country but would love to try. On typical runs my main goal is to go fast.
The board is an Atomic Cold Smoke.
Also, thanks for the awesome site. This is the most helpful area on the web that I have been able to find.
Hi Sam
You’re welcome – appreciate the comments.
And thanks for the xtra info.
I think that the Atomic Cold Smoke (not a board I’ve ridden or that familiar with but based on the specs) is probably a bit long for you in the 160cm. It is a traditional camber snowboard and has quite a long effective edge (1279mm). I don’t think the board itself wouldn’t be unsuitable for what you want to do but I think that you would prefer a slightly shorter length.
Hi Nate! I absolutely LOVE your site, thank you for all the great advice and information.
Much like everyone else, I’d like you input on what size board I should get. I’m interested in the GNU B-Nice ASYM board, as described here (specs on the bottom): http://www.gnu.com/snowboards/b-nice-asym/
About Me:
Skill–I just graduated from green to blue, and just started to connect my turns/carving. Turning uphill is still a weakness of mine that I hope to perfect this season. Also, the very first time I went snowboarding, I sprained my ankle, so I have a bit of fear to overcome. I’m all about riding downhill, at a comfortable speed, lol. I’m not interested in parks, tricks, and freestyling. My measurements:
Weight: 125lbs (without gear)
Height: 5’5 1/2
Waist: 29 inches
With that, I’m thinking I would be a 145 or 148cm, and would LOVE your opinion on which size before ordering tonight. thank you so much again, i truly enjoy your site, it’s amazeballs.
Oh and my boot size is a 9!
Hi Nana
I think the 145 is probably the better length overall but I’m more concerned about the width in this case. I think the 234mm waist width on the 145 would be too narrow. Unfortunately, I think the 238mm waist width on the 148cm length would also be pushing it for being too narrow but you could probably get away with it.
Some other options that are similar type boards:
~ Burton Genie 145cm (241mm waist)
~ Burton Lip Stick 145cm (239mm waist)
~ Capita Space Metal Fantasy 147cm (239mm waist)
~ GNU Velvet Gnuru 147cm (239mm waist)
~ Ride Rapture 147cm (242mm waist)
~ Roxy Ally 147cm (240mm waist)
~ YES Emoticon 146cm (239mm)
But the GNU B-Nice Asym is still certainly an option. Just that there’s not an ideal size for it. If you do go with the B-Nice I would go with the 148cm because I think the 145cm would be too narrow. But the 148cm is borderline too long.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Great suggestions. I’m 6’2 205 lbs with size 11 Burton Rulers. I’m struggling with deciding on correct size for the 2016/17 Ride Alter Ego. Considering either 160W or 164W. Spoke with Ride reps and I get different answers! I would say i’m an advanced rider. Like the idea of the “surfy” feel with the Alter Ego and the option of locking it down for more aggressive carving. Like the trees but also like steeps and going fast. Will the waist width of this board make it stable enough at 160W? Help??
Hi Shawn
Thanks for the message. I can see why you got different answers. There are pros and cons to each size.
The 160W would be the better width for you generally speaking and would be quicker from edge-to-edge – better for the trees and more maneuverable in general.
But the 164W would be better in powder and better at speed because of the extra surface are from the extra length and extra width.
It would be a toss up between whether you would value quicker edge-to-edge transition/maneuverability or value powder and speed ability more. If I had to pick one for you i’d say that the 164W would be the better bet but really it comes down to what you think is more important.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Im looking into purchasing a never summer prospector. I am torn between the 157 and 160. I am 5’11”, 160lbs, 10.5 boot. The 160 would be better for deep and the 157 a little more nimble to spin. Let me know your thoughts.
Thanks
Hi Ryan
I don’t really know anything about split boards. But generally speaking you’ve hit the nail on the head – the shorter board will be more maneuverable and easier to spin and the 160 will be better for float in powder and for stability at speed.
If you are opting for a split board, then I assume you will be out in the backcountry a lot and will encounter a lot of powder and I’m also assuming you are quite an advanced rider. Assuming all of this then I’d say the 160 is the better bet. But like I say, I’m not knowledgeable when it comes to split boards so I’m unsure if the same things apply to split boards (though I’d say it would).
Hey Nate,
Just to give you a little more info I am an advanced rider with a 50/50 freestyle/freeride approach. I spin off most things I can find but also play around a lot out of bounds and love steeps and tight trees. This will be my first split and I am leaning towards the longer board as it will be easier to float in that untouched pow you find in the backcountry. I do want to make my way to japan for the real deep snow but for now it will be mostly trips to colorado and utah.
Thanks again for any insight
Hi Ryan
I think that if you really want that extra float then the 160 is the way to go. It will make the board more difficult to spin is the only thing. So I guess it’s a decision between spinning and powder and which you want to be more effortless. Of course you’ll still be able to spin with the 160 and you’ll still float with the 157. Just that the 157 will take slightly more effort to float and the 160 will take slightly more effort to spin.
Hi there. Incredible information. I was hoping to get your opinion on my recent board purchase as I was told the board maybe too long for me. ( I haven’t ridden it yet).
I am 5’2″ and weigh 115 lbs without gear.
I have been snowboarding for 15 years and am an intermediate boarder who enjoys covering the mountain on groomers and finding fresh pow.
I purchased the burton 147 family tree day trader.
Do you think this board is too big for me? It only came in 147 or 151
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for the message.
Yeah I’d say it’s probably a bit on the long side. Certainly for powder you want to go a little bit longer and the Day Trader is predominantly made for powder. Typically speaking (though it’s slightly different depending on the particular board) I’d say that anything around a 141 to 143 would be a good “all-mountain” size for you.
If you were mainly a park/freestyle or a beginner rider then you’d size down a bit and for powder/freeride type stuff you size up a bit. Typically I would say up to around 145 or 146 if you were an advanced rider mainly riding in powder and riding steeps etc.
All of that said, the Day Trader does have a shorter effective edge than your typical 147cm board would have. So that’s in your favor in terms of how long it will feel for you. A lot of the extra length is in the rockered nose (which helps it to float in powder. The 2017 Day Trader actually now comes in a 145cm and a 150cm – whereas past models are 147cm and 152cm – so I assume you have a 2016 or earlier model.
Long story short – the board is sized slightly longer than your typical board because it’s designed predominantly for powder. Because of it’s shorter effective edge, it shouldn’t feel as long as most 147s. So if it was an all-mountain type board or a freestyle type board, then I’d be concerned that it was a good bit too long but because it’s a powder board, it’s probably not overly long. The only thing is that if you don’t really want a powder board then it may not be the most suitable.
I think you’ll need to ride it to see if it’s something that will suit your riding style. It’s fine if you like to ride a lot of powder and could use that extra float. – o.k. I didn’t really make the long story short!
Hope this answers your question
Hi Nate,
This article has been extremely helpful! I am 5’6″ and 140lbs and I found that my standard length is 150cm. I’d consider myself a free rider with a couple seasons of experience, but I am looking for a board that I can grow into. Right now I am looking at a K2 Luna board that is 155cm. Do you think that is too long?
Hi Shyanne
I think that the 155cm is probably a bit too long – especially with just a couple of seasons under your belt. If you were an advanced rider and mostly rode powder then the Luna 155cm might be ok but I think that it’s pushing it for being too long. You do really notice that extra length. I think you wouldn’t need something this long to grow into either.
I wouldn’t go longer than 152cm if I was you (but that would be at the long end) – but this depends on the particular board to an extent too. But for the Luna, I think that the 155cm would be a bit too long.
If you decide to go against the 155cm Luna, try checking out the boards at the links below for some ideas. If you find an option that you like let me know and I recommend the best size for you for that particular board.
~ My Top 6 Women’s All Mountain Snowboards
~ My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Excellent information in this article for someone like me who is pretty new into snowboarding, but a quick learner on the slopes! I recently had a 3 day trip to Big Bear and used a friend’s board (Salomon Lotus 147cm) – she’s 5’8” and probably 125 lbs – so I’m curious if this was even a good board for me to test run. I’m looking to buy a board but still somewhat confused as to what to really get. I’m 5’4” and 130 lbs without gear.
I don’t think I’m ever going to be interested in park. I really just want to cruise the slopes with graceful S’s and maybe some straight shots with a little speed.
Based on some reviews, I was looking into the Roxy XOXO BT+ 2017 model. Not sure if the 145 or 149 would be the best choice for me at this stage. I definitely feel I’m already at the intermediate level and want a board I can have for years and not out grow in terms of experience. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Nate!
Hi Natalie
I think in general that something between 145 and 147 would suit you the best – but it does depend on the particular board. In the case of the XOXO, I think the 145cm would be a better size for you than the 149, but not necessarily the ideal size.
I think the XOXO would be suitable for you and the 145 would be an ok size but I’d probably prefer to put you on a 146 or 147 for that board (if it existed!). If you want more options for the kind of riding you want to do, I would check out the list below.
~ My Top 5 Women’s All Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
You don’t necessarily need to do any freestyle riding on these boards – they’re also good for just all mountain riding for intermediate and up riders for riding the groomers.
Hope this helps. If you find anything in there that you like, let me know if you want me to recommend a size for you.
Hey, I’ve been snowboarding for around 16 years, but for the last maybe 3 years I haven’t been out at all.. I sold all my gear because of a knee injury but I’m thinking of getting back into it this season, and I’m pretty confident that the three years wont leave me too rusty and I’ll be back to where I was before. I found a second hand Burton Custom X for an amazing deal, but it’s 156cm; I’m 5’10 and 165lbs. I pretty much exclusively freeride, as fast and as hard as I can.. I used to always ride around 159, you think I’ll notice the 3cm much?
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Ian
Thanks for your message. If you rode for 16 years, then I’d say it’ll only take a short while to get back up to speed.
3cm is noticeable – but it does depend on the board. Different camber profiles, different side-cuts and different effective edges can make a board of one size feel longer than another board of the same size, if that makes sense.
But generally speaking for you, based on your weight/height and your style and the fact that you are an advanced rider, I would say you should go closer to that 159cm mark. The 158 Custom X would be a great fit I think – but the 156cm will be on the short side – it would still work, but won’t be ideal, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I have read many of the comments and I am still not very sure how to pick a board. Just like some other readers, I am living in a country that doesn’t snow so there are limited choices of snowboards shops here so I am thinking to order online.
I searched online and I’m really in love with the look of the Nitro Mystique Snowboard – Women 2017.
I am 158cm tall, 115 pounds, boot size US7 and I am a beginner learning how to master linked turns. At first I thought that I should go for the 142cm board based on my weight. But I have asked several shops and they provided me with mixed advices on what length I should choose. Some say that the 142 and 146cm boards would be too narrow for my boot size (the waist width is 230mm and 234 mm respectively) and suggested me to go for 149cm (waist width is 238mm). But some say even 146 maybe too long for a beginner of my weight. And that the 142cm might fit me as long as my stance is set at an outward angle.
So should I go for the 142cm or it’s too risky and I should just give up on choosing this board?
Thanks a lot for your advice Nate!
Best,
Amanda
Hi Amanda
To be honest I think that there isn’t really a suitable size for that particular board.
I think something between a 138cm and a 140cm would be a good length for a beginner board for you. So I think that the 146cm would definitely be too long. The 142 would be doable but still probably not ideal. In terms of width, I agree that the 230mm width on the 142 would be too narrow anyway. You’d likely get away with the width on the 146cm – but I think that length is definitely too long for you.
Also, I wouldn’t set your bindings up so that they help you to fit on the board. You want to be able to set your binding angles so that they are the most comfortable for you and the best to learn on – which isn’t necessarily going to be a duck stance.
So unfortunately I don’t think there is an appropriate size for the Nitro Mystique. If you want some other options check out the links below.
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
~ Women’s Beginner Snowboards Ratings Catalog (scroll down for the women’s options)
Hope this helps. If you find something that you like feel free to ask me what I think would be the best size for you
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your reply! I found another board that I like (http://www.evo.com/outlet/snowboards/nikita-expression-snowboard-womens.aspx), Do you think the 139cm would fit me? It’s a rocker-camber-rocker profile so people said it will be easier to turn?
Thanks a lot and can’t wait to hit the slope 🙂
Hi Amanda
I’m not that familiar with that board but just looking at the specs it looks like it would be a great beginner deck and I think that the 139cm size would work well for you. I’d say go for it on this one. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate
Great stuff here. I am thinking of the Capita Doa but not sure of the size
I am 6’0″, 160lbs, 11 burton imperial boot, +18/-12 stance, and well above intermediate. I ride all mountain, freestyle with little park action.
Thinking of the 156 or 158, just worried about the boot size. I am currently on a Gnu Riders Choice (2010).
Thanks a bunch.
Hi Gene
Thanks for your comments. I think you should be fine for width on both of those. Burton boots have a reduced outersole. I rode the 156 DOA and I have size 10 boots – but with boots very little outersole reduction. The width on that was fine and your boots wouldn’t be much longer than mine once you take into account the outersole reduction.
So, in terms of which is the best length – I think it depends. If you like to include spins and want a bit more maneuverability, then the 156 would be the better option but if you want more stability at speed, then the 158 would be better.
If you haven’t already seen it, you can check out my review of the DOA at the link below.
>>Capita DOA review
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks a bunch Nate. Your review was great, and good to hear about the boot size. I was looking for a bit more spin, so he 156 seems perfect.
Thanka for the speedy response.
You’re very welcome. Have a great season and enjoy the new deck!
Hi, could you please share your thoughts about my situation. I’m 6’2”, 260lbs without equipment. Size 12. Advanced skier trying to switch to snowboard so pretty much a beginner. I noticed that only a few companies like GNU seem to post for some of their board sizes a rating to reach 270lbs (~163W). Thank you!
Hi Andrey
I think something between 160 and 163 would be a good length for you starting out. And yeah you should go with a wide board for your boot size.
Whilst it is good to take into account weight recommendations from snowboard brands, I wouldn’t live and die by them.
One thing with weight recommendations is that if you are within the range then the board is likely to flex like the board is supposed to. So, for example if a board has a flex rating of 5/10, then it will flex like a 5/10. But if you are below the weight recommendations, then the board would feel a little bit stiffer and if you are over the weight recommendations, then the board will feel a little softer. If that makes sense.
For beginners, I always recommend a medium-soft flex (3 or 4 out of 10). But if you went with a medium flex board but were above the weight recommendations it would feel more like a medium-soft.
So, in the case of bigger riders who are beginners, I often recommend going for something that is a medium flex. That you don’t have to go exceedingly long (which would make it really hard to learn) just to fit in with the weight recommendations.
With all that in mind, I think that that the following would be good options for you. They are all medium flexing boards that are well suited to beginners. The only thing that makes them not necessarily ideal for beginners is that they are stiffer than I’d normally recommend for beginners. However, for you they will feel like medium-soft. I have recommended the sizes for each below.
~ Slash Brainstorm 163W
~ Ride Manic 160W
~ GNU Metal Gnuru 162 (though this might be pushing it in terms of being too narrow for size 12 boots)
Hope this helps.
Thanks a lot for your helpful reply! I was rushing a bit to have at least a temporary solution since I’m flying to Colorado this weekend so I grabbed something. I ended up grabbing Never Summer Chairman 165X. It is listed as very stiff (9) but the shop was saying that with my weight and equipment it should feel more like medium. I can still try to not use it and buy something else at the resort and then return this one. Do you think its completely not doable to learn and get used to this kind of board in my case? Thank you so much for your help!
Hi Andrey
I wouldn’t say it’s not doable but it’s also not ideal. The NS Chairman isn’t really a beginners board – mostly because of it’s stiffer flex but also because it’s designed to be an aggressive riding board.
I agree that the 165X will feel softer than the flex rating for you and will likely bring it down to around a medium flex. Ideally you’d be starting on a medium-soft flex – but maybe because of your skiing experience you’ll adapt quicker.
I think you could learn on it, but it’s not ideal and will be a steeper learning curve than some other options – IMO.
Hey! So this is my second season, and I can do blue runs comfortably! I usually ride a 155/156 Arbor, pretty flexible, and am 5’9, 165 pound women. I was really excited this season getting new gear and just splurged on the K2 Lime Lite 2017, 153 cm. Do you think thats going to be too short for me? I didn’t think 2/3 cm would make a huge difference? And I don’t mind that the park board is a little bit slower, plus I do enjoy working on learning park tricks. I’m just curious if I chose the right size because all of the women’s boards I look at are all under 156 cm, plus narrow that down to the boards I actually like! Haha. But yes, I am currently waiting its arrival and am hoping that it will be a good ride for me. What do you think? Did I buy too short of a board? And should I even try riding it or return it? I’m afraid to hear your answer.. Haha thanks!
Also just wanted to add that I can turn and do little ollie tricks here and there. For my second season, I feel really great. So I’m just curious how thats going to affect me being on a shorter board then I’m used. Also I’m a size 9.5 boot and am using Union bindings if that matters!
Thanks for your help!
Hi Kendal
I actually think you’ll be fine on the 153cm. I would say that around the 156 mark would be your ‘standard length’ but since you are intermediate level it doesn’t hurt to take off a small bit and if you are keen to learn more freestyle aspects of riding, then those couple of extra centimeters smaller will help in that regard.
I also think that the width of the board should be fine for your boot size.
Sizing down is easier to get used to than sizing up. It will most likely feel different at first than what you’re used to but it’s quicker to adjust to a smaller size than a longer size. The adjustment will also depend on other specs that might be different between your Arbor and your new board.
Hope this helps
Hey nate,
Been reading all these and you’ve been my go to guru for sizing, thanks in advance. I’m 5’6 185lbs with a 9 size US boots. I have a Never summer 157 proto type 2 board. My style is mostly 60/40, park/freeride. I’m a bit worried it might be a little to big for me but I bought it considering my weight. Any comments would help?
Thanks,
Jason
Hi Jason
I think the size is OK for you. I would have also considered the 154. The 154 would have given you the advantage of it being easier to spin and a bit more maneuverable but the 157 will give you better stability on landings, more stability at speed and better float in powder – so either one would be a compromise.
The 154 would have also felt softer flexing for your weight than the 157. The 157 should feel like the medium flex that the board is designed to be.
I wouldn’t say either of the 2 sizes would be wrong for you, there are just advantages and disadvantages to both.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the info! Guess I’ll try hitting the steeps more often with this board.
Hi Nate,
I am looking to buy a new board that I plan to last me for a while. I am currently looking at the Jones mountain twin 158 wide. I am 6 ft. and 175lbs. I prefer all mountain riding, powder, and glades. My snowboard boots are a size 11, and I am trying to decide if this board would be a good fit for me since it is wide. What do you suggest? Thanks!
Hi Mike
For the style you’re describing and your height, weight and boot size specs, I think the 158W is spot on for you.
Size 11s are often on the cusp between wide and regular width but fortunately the Mountain Twin 158W is more of a mid-wide than a wide and the 258mm waist width is ideal for your boot size.
Hi Nate! If you’re still replying to this comment thread id love your opinion! I bought a board from a coworkers son thinking it was the right height for me (now I know better than to base it on height) but needless to say it ended up being WAY too big for me. My fiancé is a beginner rider 6’2″ approx. 200lbs and a size 12 boot. The board is a 2009 Burton Custom 156w.
I ended up purchasing a 2012 Burton Freeride smalls 141. I’m a intermediate rider 5’5″ 100-105lbs wearing a sz8 women’s boot. this was my first time purchasing my own board and should have done more research prior to purchasing the Burton Custom. hopefully my mistake can be a positive thing for my fiancé.
-Jessica 🙂
Hi Jessica
The Burton Freeride Smalls 141 is a much better size for you. 156W is, as you say, way too big for you – both in terms of length and width.
I think you could definitely use the Custom for your fiancé. I would usually recommend something around a 159cm to 161cm (based on the fact he’s a beginner but more like 163cm to 164cm once he’s more advanced) board but I think he could get away with a shorter board for a while. But I would up-size the length reasonably quickly.
Is it a “Burton Custom Flying V” or a “Burton Custom”? The Custom Flying V would be better as a beginner board. But the Custom would be easy enough if it’s that short – but like I say he’d probably want to up-size reasonably quickly.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I was given a snowboard from a friend that no longer uses it. It is 138cm, and I am 5ft6, 140lbs.
Is this board too small for me? I am a beginner.
thank you,
shannon
Hi Shannon
Unfortunately, I think that this board is too small for you. I would prefer to see you on something in the mid 140s – something between a 144cm and 147cm – and that’s taking into account that you are a beginner. You could go 148cm to 150cm if you were a more advanced rider.
That’s not to say that you can’t take it out. You were given it. It will probably feel easy to ride and give you plenty of maneuverability – but it won’t feel that stable and once you start to improve this board won’t be long enough for you. So I’d say take it out and try it but I would up-size fairly quickly if I was you.
Hope this helps
Hi, Thank you for an amazing article. I have the same question. I have just bought Burton Lip Stick 152 and I think it might be to long for me. I’m currently 63kg and 168cm, planning on losing “baby” weight in the future. I rife only in the mountains, no park, and burton range for this board 57-75kg. I have not ridden for 8 years, but before I get used to be intermediate level for sure. What’s your thoughts? Thanks again!
My shoe size is 7 US, and I think to send it back and order 149. The weight 63 is without gear. Should I keep the board or return?
Hi Olga
Thanks for your message. I think that the 152 is too long for you, unfortunately. I think you would be much better off on the 149cm. Anything from 147cm to 149cm, generally speaking would be a good size for you, IMO. You might get away with a 150cm but I think 152cm is just that little bit too far. If I was you I would send it back and get the 149cm Lip Stick. The width on the 149cm will also be a better match for your boot size.
Hope this helps
Thank you, Nate. This what I thought, I have already sent it back today and about to order 149. You have a wonderful web-site! Thanks again!
Thanks Olga and you’re very welcome. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new board once it arrives
Hey Nate,
This post is awesome! I am 5’6 150lbs and currently ride a 155 Roxy Eminence which I love for free riding. I am looking into getting a park board and am trying to determine between a 149 or a 151. I also am only looking at Roxy and Lib Tech boards. Do you have any advice on sizes that would work and potential Lib Tech boards that are good for girls to ride?
Hi Sydney
Thanks for your comments.
I think anything from a 146cm to a 149cm would be best for you for a park board. But maybe 147 to 149 would be best for you considering you ride a 155 as your freeride board (just so that it doesn’t feel too weird!)
Lib Tech boards are typically unisex but you’ll want to make sure that you get the board in a narrow width (most of their boards come in narrow sizes) depending on your boot size. If you can let me know your boot size I can better recommend a size.
In terms of Lib Tech boards good for the park I’d suggest the Skate Banana and the Box Scratcher. The Skate Banana will be slightly better for jumps than the Box Scratcher and the Box Scratcher slightly better on jibs than the Skate Banana – but not much in it. The Roxy Ally would be a good Roxy option. All 3 of these boards are Continuous Rocker boards – so they will feel looser than the Eminence but you might want that for freestyle riding.
You could also consider the Roxy XOXO if you want something with a bit of mellow camber in there.
In terms of sizes, I think the following will work (not taking into account boot size yet).
Skate Banana: 148N
Box Scratcher: 147 (although this doesn’t actually come in a narrow size so might be too wide for you)
Ally: 147cm
XOXO: 149cm
There are other options too if you’re not sure about those – like going with something more all-mountain-freestyle like the Lib Tech TRS (148N) or Roxy Torah Bright (149cm).
Let me know your boot size and I can more accurately recommend the better sizes.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
My boot size is a 9.5
Thanks Sydney
In that case (assuming that’s a Women’s US9.5) I would try to get a waist width that’s at least 244mm and up to 251 or 252mm. In which case, I’d change my sizings to:
Skate Banana: 149 (247mm waist width)
Box Scratcher: 147 (251mm waist width)
Ally: 147cm (240mm waist width – maybe too narrow?)
XOXO: 149cm (242mm waist width – maybe too narrow?)
Lib Tech TRS: 148N (237mm waist width – think I’d scrap this option and I don’t think there would be any other suitable sizes)
Roxy Torah Bright: (239mm – probably too narrow)
Though, since your Eminence has a narrower waist (241mm) than I’m suggesting and it sounds like you’ve never had any issues with heel or toe drag, then you could probably still go for those narrower options. Though sometimes something wider is good for park riding for a little bit more surface area for stability of landing jumps and tricks.
Nate,
I am a true beginner looking to start snowboarding as I have skied my whole life. I would like to find a nice beginner board, but have been told differing stories regarding what size I need depending on what shop I visit. What is your opinion? I am 5′ 7′, 125 lbs, women’s size 8.5. Thanks for your help!
Hi Lisa
Based on your specs and because you are a beginner I would say something between 143cm and 145cm would be a good length for you. That’s generally speaking but sometimes it can depend on the particular snowboard.
In terms of width, something with a waist width between 242mm and 248mm ideally.
Length is important to get right, especially for beginners but there are also some other things to look out for in a beginner board. Check out the article below for more on choosing a beginner board.
~ How To Choose The Best Snowboard For A Beginner
And if you want some ideas on some good beginner boards check out the next link.
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate! I was getting directed to much longer snowboards (150, 153), and I didn’t feel like that was correct. I appreciate your help-this will make the decision much easier- thanks a ton!!!
Hi Lisa
Yeah 150+ is way too long for you, IMO.
You’re very welcome and I hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
Thank you for this informative article it has really helped me!
I’m looking to purchase a used board after a long time renting (I wish I’d come across this site sooner!).
I’m looking at 3 boards:
– Palmer Honeycircle II 154cm
– Rossignol Sultan 156cm
– Kevin Young Atlantis 157cm
I’m around 5ft 9/176cm and my weight is 81kg/179 lb
Riding style is playful on piste. I want to really start carving properly as I realise now that I haven’t been doing it right for years! I also want to start doing little tricks and jumps, 180s, riding switch, buttering etc
I’ve been riding pretty much 1-2 weeks every year for the last 7-8 years. Ideally I want to buy a board that I can ride for a couple of weeks in a year for the next 5 years.
Are these boards and their lengths appropriate for me?
Thanks in advance!
Prem
Hi Prem
In terms of size, I think that something around a 156cm to 157cm would suit you well considering you want to start doing tricks but also want to improve your carving.
So I think you’ve chosen some reasonable sizes there. However, I’m not sure about the boards.
I’m not that familiar with the particular boards you’ve mentioned but just from having a look at the specs of them, I think they are probably a little bit too aggressive for what you are wanting to do. It sounds like you want something more playful than what these boards are.
I think something from the list in the link below would best suit your purposes – they are good for carving but also playful and good for freestyle type things like switch, buttering 180s etc.
~ My Top 5 All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I stopped snowboarding 10 years ago and am looking to start up again. Currently I’m seeking an all mountain board. I’m 6’1″ 210lbs size 11.5 boot. I’m considering the Rome Reverb Rocker board at 160cm or 158 mw. Do you think I definitely would need a wide board or would the length of the 160 be sufficient. My extreme days are over, just looking for a decent board to go down the mountain on.
Thanks!
– Tom
Hi Tom
I like the 160 length for you better than the 158MW but I am concerned it would be on the narrow side. Just for boot overhang. You might get away with it but no guarantees.
I would normally say something around a 164 for you but since it sounds like you want to ride more casually then something around a 160cm would be a more casual ride. But in terms of width I would recommend going with something that’s at least 257mm at the waist (and ideally not more than 265mm). You might get away with the 255mm waist on the Reverb Rocker but no Guarantees.
I think the best size for the Reverb Rocker for you would be the 161MW. But if you didn’t want to go that long you could go for the 158MW (though I think that’s bordering on being too short) or risk the width and go with the 160.
Hope this helps
Hi nate, I’m 5’11 weighing at 180lb. I ride 60% park 40% downhill. Looking for a new board with flexibility and I have eyes on the capita outer space park board. Not positive on what size to pick. I usually ride a 157
Also my boot size is 11
Hi Steven
Since you ride mostly park, then I’d say the 156cm. You could also go with the 158cm but the 156cm will be better in the park. The 158cm probably better over the rest of the mountain.
My only concern with the Outer Space Living 156cm is the width. It has a 251mm waist width and I think this is bordering on being too narrow for your boots.
What brand and model of boots do you have? That can make a difference as some brands have a more compact outersole.
Actually nate I’m now interested in the nitro t1 board. I was looking online and only see that they have a 155w to offer for me. Do you think I’ll ride fine with a 155w? Also I have burton boa’s size 11 boot size.
Hi Steven
I think the T1 155W could work. It will definitely be wide enough – bordering on too wide now – but I think it would actually be fine. And sometimes it’s nice to have a bit of extra width for jibs and stability on landings etc when in the park particularly. And I think that the 155 length is short enough that will add back some of the maneuverability lost in the extra width. Overall, I think that size would work well for you.
Thanks for the reply Nate! I know I’m on that weird cusp of sizes. I’m going to roll with the 160 and see how that works out. Also, I have some low profile Adidas Blauvelts to help with any toe drag that may occur. Thank you very much for the advice! It’s very cool of you to answer everyones questions on this forum. Much appreciated!
Take care, Tom
Hi Tom
Since you have the Adidas Blauvelts I am much more comfortable that you will be fine on the 160cm – Adidas are the best in the business at the moment when it comes to outersole reduction, so I now think the 160 is the best size – good choice.
Hope you enjoy your new board and have an awesome season and awesome comeback to snowboarding!
Hi Nate ,
Thanks for your amazing website , I wish had visited your website earlier .I recently bought a Nitro board , I had few session of snowboarding and just learned the basics . My weight is 89 kg with 188 cm height . my boot size is 10.5 (us size) .
I bought a 159 Team Nitro board , is it appropriate for me and if not what would be the best size ?
Many Thanks
Mohammad
Hi Mohammad
I think that is a good size for you considering your specs and your level. I think you made a good choice there. It’s a good width for you too – I take it that you mean Nitro Team Gullwing?
Yes it’s Nitro Team Gullwing
Thanks for confirming.
Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
Wow this is a great website, wish id seen it last year on my first trip! I am 6ft and light-65 kg and size 9 boot… The gear I hired was a 163 board and boots felt quite unresponsive because my legs are skinny and they didn’t go tight enough. I really struggled to control it and kept spinning into switch stance – I know that is because i was putting weight to my back foot , but do you think the size board would have made me struggle to keep my weight forward? Im unsure if it was just me being a beginner or the sizing? Do you think I should buy new boots and bindings before my 2nd trip in march and just hire a 155 board? Many thanks!!!! Jim
Hi Jim
Someone rented you a 163cm board! Wow, that’s definitely too long for you – even if you were more advanced but as a beginner, that’s way too long. No wonder you struggled with it. I’m not sure if the board size would have been the only cause for spinning into switch but it certainly likely contributed to it and just overall would have made it difficult to turn on.
I think something around a 155cm would be a good size for you at this stage. So if you have to hire again, I would insist on getting something no longer than 156cm. I always think it’s better to buy a board in most situations but if you can’t afford to buy one or if you think you’ll only be riding a couple of days a year, then hiring is ok (just not a 163!). You can see my reasons for buying over hiring a the link below.
~ Should I Buy or Rent a Snowboard
But certainly those same things apply to boots and bindings but perhaps to a lesser extent for bindings. If you want some ideas for boots and bindings to go for, check out the links below.
~ My Top 5 Bindings for beginners
~ My Top 7 Boots for beginners
Also, if you’re not sure about sizing and fit check out the following:
~ Binding sizing
~ Boot sizing and fit
Hope this helps
Hey Nate
Thanks for your suggestion on the Capita DOA in a 156. I rode it this weekend, and your review was spot on. What an amazing board, and thanks a bunch for your input on sizing. Was perfect.
Hi Gene
You’re very welcome and glad you love the DOA – it is an awesome deck for sure!
Hi Nate!
Thanks so much for putting this very informative chart together.
I’ve been debating ad-naseaum with my brother about what board to get (because we often share different boards).
I’m 185 6″2′ (but try to trim down to 170ish for riding season)
I’m looking at the proto type 2x assymetrical twin. I had the ’14 proto HD 160cm and loved it but it broke – so my brother thinks that a 157 is the better choice (his weight/height are similar to mine).
We’re both quite advanced riders, and although he’s a park rat (and has a ntiro T1 158 already) I’m 75% steeps and deeps and 25% park. Does a 157 even make sense given our specs, or should I go with a 160 or perhaps an even bigger board?
Thanks again for a great site and a wonderful write-up for choosing the correct size for boards.
Kind Regards,
Colin
Hi Colin
Thanks for your message. I personally think that the Proto Type Two is an improvement on the Proto HD (thought that was still a great deck) so I think you’d like the Proto Type Two if you liked the HD.
In terms of size I am leaning towards the 160cm, though it’s not cut and dry. Part of the reason I am leaning towards the 160cm is that your potentially using your brothers 158 T1 in the park and that having the 160cm would give you another option in sizing – and also since you are 75% steep and deep and I think that the 160cm would be better for that area of riding. If you were more park oriented, then I’d say 157 is probably the better bet but because you are 75% the other way, I’m leaning towards 160cm for you.
Just to make sure you don’t need to go for a wide version, and I’m guessing you won’t given that your brother is on the 158cm T1, can you let me know your boot size.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate!
Thanks for the awasome article! Could you please help me to choose a size of a snowboard?
I am 173 cm and 64kg, a beginner (my first season, took 2 weeks of lessons, goes pretty good)
I chose a burton deja vu v snowboard, which is not really soft, as i understood it goes medium, but i still want to buy it and to “grow into” it, do you think it is an ok idea? The sizes they have and which are suitable for me are 149 and 152cm
Could you please tell me which one would be better to choose?
Many thanks in advance!
Hi Katerina
I think that the Deja Vu Flying V would be fine for you. I would say it’s medium but bordering on medium-soft so it’s not going to be overly stiff. And since you’ve had 2 weeks of lessons (good job by the way – it’s a great idea to do lessons and will make your progress way faster!).
In terms of size I would say that the 149cm is the perfect size for you, so I’d definitely go with that.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much, i bought it and it’s amazing
Sweeet!
Always great to hear when people make a great gear choice. Hope you enjoy the rest of the season on your new board!
Hey Nate! I’ve read many sizing charts and all the responses that others have been writing you in regards to the proper board size they should be riding. I wasn’t able to get a sure answer for my situation, so I am hoping you can help me as you have helped so many others.
I’ve been riding for 7 years with the same board, it’s a 2010 154 cm Custom V-Rocker. When I first started snowboarding I rented a 146 (I believe it was) and it felt extremely maneuverable, but I knew/I felt it was a little too small for me. It seemed as though my sweet spot was a 150-151 cm. When I look at several sizing charts, I usually fall into the 148-151 range.
However, most charts say these are just guidelines and your personal preference, riding style, etc. will make a difference. Here are some vitals:
Height: 5’4″
Weight: 143 lbs
Ride: Powder 80%; Park 20%; would like to do more park though (up to 50% in upcoming seasons).
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
The board I’m interested in is a 2016 Lib Tech directional board. It only comes in one size, which is a 159 cm. Most directional boards I’ve seen are usually 158 cm and longer. Would you say this is too long for me? If so, it seems that would cross me off the list of riding most any directional board, right?
I spoke to an employee at Mammoth Mtn, and he stated I would be good with 156-158. I know everyone has their opinion. Your opinion matters to me. Any insight you could offer is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance Nate.
Fred
Hi Nate,
Forgot to give you my boot size. My boot size is 9 in a Burton SLX. The 2016 Lib Tech directional board I’m considering is the Jamie Lynn Rat Tail.
Hi Fred
First of all, I don’t know where you heard that the shortest directional board you can get is a 158cm, but that’s definitely not the case. Maybe it’s more so the case with Tapered Directional Boards – but even then it’s still not the case. Below is a short list of boards and their smallest sizes (these are all with tapered directional shapes).
Burton Flight Attendant 152cm
Burton Landlord 154cm
Capita Black Snowboard of Death 156cm
Never Summer Twenty Fivce 151cm
YES Pick Your Line 156cm
This is only a few boards that I picked out and I’d say there are many more – and this is just the tapered directional. Learn more about shapes here.
In terms of your style you’d probably ideally have 2 boards. For riding in the powder you usually want to up-size for a number of reasons including better float and more stability at speed. Whereas for the park you want to down-size – for easier spin rotation, better maneuverability etc. So, if you are looking for just one board to do it all, then getting an all-mountain board is probably your best bet – though it won’t be as good as having the 2 different boards. With the all-mountain board you get you would also want to look at a size that is part way between your powder size and your park size – it will be difficult to ride your powder size in the park and it will be difficult to ride your park size in the powder.
Also things like the directional shape and other factors such as detuning or having sharp edges will be different depending on the board you go with. For example, a tapered directional shape is great for the powder but not very good for the park. So an all-mountain board will typically have a directional or a directional-twin shape. There are other factors to consider too. You can check out the links below for more about what makes a good freestyle/park board, what makes a good all-mountain board and what makes a good freeride board (freeride boards are good in powder).
~ Choosing a freestyle snowboard
~ Choosing an all mountain snowboard
~ Choosing a freeride snowboard
So if you were going to go with just the one snowboard, then I would go with an all-mountain snowboard, so you’re not restricted with how you want to ride. And in terms of size, I’d say that something around a 151cm to 152cm would be a good way to go, IMO. Though some other factors come into it and depending on the board you could go a little bit either side of that.
If you were to go with 2 separate boards then you could go as small as 147cm for a park board or up to 156cm for a freeride/powder board. This is generally speaking – some boards are designed to be smaller in length and some are designed to be longer in length.
I’m not familiar with the Jamie Lynn Rat tail – but just taking a look at the specs, it looks like it could be the kind of board you could ride slightly longer – as the effective edge is quite small compared to the overall length – but I couldn’t say for sure as I’m not that familiar with that board.
Well that’s my 2 cents anyway. I hope this helps with your decision. If you did want to look into an all-mountain board, check out my top 10 all mountains board list below.
~ My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hi Nate
Great site!
I’m looking into buying a new board. I’m 5’6, 150lbs with a shoe size of 7.5. For the last 11 years I’ve been riding a Shaun White Burton board (Abominable Snowman 156). It wasn’t a great transition from a small soft board back in the day at all (thanks to the guy in the store who thought it would be just fine), learned to ride it, but never really quite liked the board all these years.
I would like an all mountain board, and would say that I’m in between intermediate and advanced.
There are two different boards I’ve been looking at (with two quite different price ranges too I must say).
I first saw the Salomon Wonder, but then cast my eye on the Lib tech TRS NP.
Any recommendations on those two?
Also I’m a bit unsure about which size to go for. The 156 I’ve been on this past decade always felt too big for me and hard to control, especially in conditions with large bumps etc. (just couldn’t manage a small turn radius).
The Salomon Wonder comes in 146 and 150, on their site I think my height and weight puts me in the 150 bracket.
While the Lib tech site has a snowboard finder where depending on if I put it to intermediate it comes up with the 148NS board, while on advanced it also includes the 151NS as an option to go for.
Do you have any recommendations on which sizes I should go for, for either board?
Thanks a lot, regards Claire.
Hi Claire
Thanks for your message.
Generally speaking I would say that you’d fit in that 150cm to 152cm range. In my opinion you were sold a board that was definitely too big for you. Probably at that stage something less than a 150cm might have been even better. Sometimes sales people just want to make a sale, unfortunately.
For the wonder I would definitely say that the 150cm is the best size for you.
For the TRS I would go with the 151N. You could also go with the 148N and it would be fine but I think the 151N fits your specs better – and also since you are already coming down from a 156, you will be able to handle the 151N.
Hope this helps and if you’re in need of any other options, check out the links below.
~ Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
~ Top 6 Women’s All-Mountain Snowboards
Hey Nate
Thanks so much for your answer!
Just checked out your site with the top 5 womens all-mountain freestyle boards.
Started looking into the Never Summer Womens Proto Type Two as an option.
So putting the Lib Tech TRS NP and the Never Summer Womens Proto Type Two next to each other as options for me, which would you recommend to get?
For the Never Summer should I go for the 148 or the 151?
They don’t really have a size chart (which was mentioned in an erlier message here on the site as well).
Thanks again!
Reagards, Claire.
Forgot to write:
The Lib tech is I guess an unisex board and the never summer a pure women’s board, is that something to put into consideration?
Hi Claire
Proto Type Two definitely an option I would recommend. Between the 2 I would go for the Proto Type Two – I have ridden both the TRS and Proto Type 2 (men’s version) and preferred the Proto – but I also love the TRS, so I don’t think you can go wrong with either – but if I had to choose I’d go Proto.
In terms of TRS being a unisex board and the Women’s Proto Type Two being a women’s specific board I wouldn’t worry too much about that. The biggest issue with women buying men’s boards is that they are usually too wide at the appropriate length. But since the TRS comes in narrow sizes that issue isn’t there. When it comes to boots and bindings you definitely want to go women’s specefic, IMO. The only other thing with boards is that the flex is usually a bit stiffer on average on men’s boards – but the flex of the TRS and Proto are pretty similar.
If you were to go with the Women’s Proto Type Two, I would say that the 151cm is the best size.
Hi!!’
Love your article… I’ve been reading a lot of the comments and they all have helped a lot but I’m curious to what I would be:)
I am a beginner and I am practising on my friends board which is 154 I feel
Like it’s to big for me and having trouble turning. I am 5’6 1/2 and weigh 165 (weight loss journey right now) and I’m looking at the Niche minx woman’s board but it goes as high as 149…. is this ok to begin on?
Hi Natalie
I think the 149cm size would be fine for you as a beginner size. I think 154cm is probably a tad too long for you as a beginner. It does also depend on the board – you’re friends board may also not be suitable for a beginner for other reasons.
I think that the Minx is suitable as a beginner deck (not the truest beginner board but suitable) and every men’s Niche board I’ve ridden has been great so they definitely make good boards (and being environmentally awesome doesn’t hurt either, IMO).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for such an informative site!
I am a beginner and just took three snowboarding lessons recently. I signed up for one of those Burton’s “learn to ride” programs so at the end of the lessons I get to keep the snowboard. I am 5’9 and 120lbs. I rented a 145cm for the lessons and was able to make basic turns down from the green trails. However when I went to redeem the board, the guy at the shop said the 145cm is too short for me and convinced me to get the 149cm instead. Now I am concerned that I might be underweight for the 149cm and was thinking to switch it back to the 145cm. Would you think the 145cm is a better size for me? Would I have problems with the 149cm as a beginner if I can’t return the board? My shoe size is 7.5 and waist is 27 inches.
Thanks so much in advance!
Regards,
Chloe
Hi Chloe
Everyone has different opinions, but I personally think that the 145 would have been a better size for you. I think that the 149cm is probably a little bit long for you as a beginner. It might be a good size for you if you were a more advanced rider. I wonder if the guy at the shop was just going off height? It’s a common mistake, in my opinion.
The other thing is that some more advanced riders (who learnt as kids especially) don’t remember what it’s like to be a beginner and sometimes don’t take that into consideration.
Though in saying that it can depend on the particular boards – some ride longer and some ride shorter. But generally speaking I’d say a 149cm is too long for you at this stage. If you can let me know the model of the board I can give you a more accurate recommendation.
Thanks Nate! Yes, the guy at the shop was saying that it should fall a little bit under my chin and the 145cm was too short. The board is manufactured specifically for the program participants and is not for retail sale so I am unsure about the specs of the model. It looks like a true twin, rocker board to me.
Hi Chloe
Sounds like he was just going off height. Maybe for that particular board the 149cm is better but it’s hard to say without knowing the specs and it’s more likely, IMO, that the 145cm would be a better length. But that’s not to say that the 149cm would be a nightmare to ride for you. But I think the 145cm would be easier to learn on and lead to a faster progression.
Hey Nate,
I greatly appreciate your quick response and your ” 2 cents” was really a wealth of knowledge. You really gave me your perspective from all angles. I think I will be steering away from the Rat Tail that I wanted after reading your very informative post. I believe you may have saved me from a very sad mistake. Choosing the right equipment for any sport is vital. Thanks again for your help and posts!
Fred
Hi Fred
You’re very welcome. I absolutely agree that the right equipment for any sport is super important – and for snowboarding it is definitely the case.
Hi Nate,
I am 5 feet and 6 inches and weight around 160 pounds with a Size 10 US Feet (I wear Size 10 Burton Imperials). I am looking at the 2016/2017 Rossignol One Magtek, and considering between the 156 and the 159. I mostly ride All Mountain and like to go fast, and I want to do more freeride. I never go to the park.
Which size would you recommend? Also, Rossignol recommends the 159 for boot sizes over 9.
Thanks,
Rey
I made a mistake in the height: I am 5 feet and 7 inches.
Hi Rey
If I was you I would go for the 156cm. That’s not to say that you couldn’t go 159cm. Some people like to go for something longer than average. But if I was you I would go 156. I’m 6″0 and 185lbs. I would go for the 159cm with my specs, but if I had your specs I’d definitely go 156cm – that would be spot on, IMO.
Also, the waist width on the 156 is 252mm – which is pretty much ideal for size 10s, so that is perfect, IMO. The width of the 159 would also be fine for you, but I think the 156 is that bit better – in terms of length and width.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the quick reply. Is there a big difference between stability at high speeds between the 156 and 159?
Also, I do a lot of weightlifting and I expect to gain 8-10 pounds within the next 2 years. Would the 156 be good enough to grow into? Would it be stable enough at high speeds then?
Thanks again,
Rey
Hi Rey
That would certainly move you closer to the 159cm but still not definitely 159cm over 156cm. But if you have those extra pounds and also if you are strong, then the downsides of the 159cm become less – and since you don’t have any freestyle focus, by the sounds of it, then the 159cm becomes more appealing.
The stability of the 159cm will be noticeable over the 156cm. It’s not going to be boat-loads but it will be noticeable, IMO. So, if that is your main concern then the 159cm might be ok for you.
One of the downsides of the 159cm would be that it will take more effort to maneuver – but if you are particularly strong, then that gets negated.
Hopefully this gives you more to go off.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for this incredibly helpful article.
Could you help me decide what board to buy? I’m between 5’2″ and 5’3″, weight fluctuates anywhere from 103-111 lbs, and have Mondo 23 / US Women size 6 feet. Ability-wise I’m a lower-intermediate (based on your other article). I own a pair of Burton Felix Boa, and am trying to buy an all-mountain board and a pair of bindings to start, I don’t imagine I’ll own more than one board so want to get one that’s as versatile as possible.
I have trouble deciding among:
1) Never Summer Proto Type 2 – 139cm or 142cm?
2) Capita Birds of a Feather – 140cm or 142cm?
3) Burton Talent Scout – 141cm
4) Burton Feelgood Smalls – 140cm (flying v twin and very cheap)
For rentals in the past I’ve used boards anywhere from 138-143cm and felt comfortable on most. Out of the boards I tried I really liked the 2017 Burton Feelgood Flying V 140cm, but it doesn’t seem to be the best board for carving or riding switch – both are what I want to focus on for my progression, along with learning basic buttering tricks and doing small jumps, riding very steep terrain and getting more experience on off-piste powder. The most “aggressive” board I’ve demo’ed was a 2017 Salomon Gypse 143cm (I know it’s not very aggressive at all by normal standards), which I actually felt was a little bit too soft, but I did get used to it by the end of the day and was able to progress on it.
What would you recommend?
Thank you so much,
Eve
Hi Eve
Out of those boards, I think the Proto Type 2 would serve you the best. In terms of sizing I would go for the 142cm. If you were a beginner, then I’d definitely say 139cm but since you are a bit past that I think you would be fine with the 142cm – especially considering you’ve ridden up to 143cm and felt comfortable. The 234mm waist width on that board is also a really good fit for your boot size too.
It’s going to outdo, IMO, the Feelgood Flying V in terms of Carving, Switch, Jumps and for stability at speed. The Feelgood Flying V would be better for powder but that’s about the only area that it would outdo the Proto Type Two, IMO.
The Gypsy is a softer board. A medium-soft flex. As an intermediate rider, and also because you felt that that board too soft – I think you will appreicate a medium flex. The Feelgood Flying V, Proto Type Two are both medium Flexing.
The Capita Birds of a feather is quite an aggressive board – and it’s also more like medium-stiff – it’s one of the stiffer women’s boards out there. So, I think that is going to be too stiff – a. for an intermediate level and b. if you want to be doing basic tricks, buttering etc I think it would be too stiff.
The Burton Talent Scout would be doable. It’s a little bit more aggressive but not as aggressive as the Birds of a Feather. It’s got a medium flex too. I think the Proto Type Two, just over this but it would be very close between this and the Proto Type 2 – I just think that the Proto Type 2 is just that little bit less aggressive. If you did really want to go Burton, then the Talent Scout would be the one to go with and the 141cm would be the best size for you, IMO.
I don’t know too much about the Feelgood smalls as I don’t really work with youth/kids boards but I imagine it’s fairly similar to the Feelgood Flying V – it has that flying V shape. It’s a centered board (the Feelgood FLying V is setback 12.5mm) so it would be an improvement for riding switch. But I have heard that, and I could be wrong, that they don’t put quite the same tech into youth/kids boards – and just quickly looking at the stats, there are certainly some different specs between those boards.
So, long story short I think Proto Type 2 142cm would be your first choice with Talent Scout 141cm a second (slightly more aggressive) choice.
If you want more options you could check out the following links:
The boards in the first link are what I term all-mountain-freestyle and I think this is going to suit you best based on what you’re describing. The second link is for what I call all-mountain boards. These will be better, typically in powder but won’t be as good for riding switch – but check out the specs on those pages to see what you think.
~ My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
~ My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thank you so much Nate, this helped a lot! I’m planning to buy the Proto or the Talent Scout based on your recommendation, depending on which one I could get a better deal on… that probably means I’ll get the Talent Scout, as it doesn’t look like the Never Summer board will go on sale due to the limited availability. When in your opinion would be a good time to buy? Again, really appreciate your help!
Also if I have a narrow stance (17.5″, reference stances on the boards I’ve tried are usually 18.5″ or wider) should I stay with a shorter length board? Would 138 or 139cm be too short?
Hi Eve
The 138 Talent Scout and 139 Proto Type 2 would be absolutely fine for you, IMO. It was definitely a close call between the 142cm and 139cm for the Proto Type 2 in my initial reply – so the 139cm is definitely still an option – and if you prefer that narrower stance, then it might be better to with the slightly shorter size.
Hi Eve
You’re very welcome.
I’d say there are advantages and disadvantages to buying at different time. You could wait until late season, when 2017 models will start to be reduced in price but then you do risk them selling out and not getting your best choice – and also you wouldn’t get as much use out of it this season. You could also wait until the start of next season, when they will have good sales on 2017 models – but again you risk your best options and best sizes selling out before then – and you don’t get the use out of it in the current season.
Some 2017 models are already being reduced at one store I know of, but that didn’t include Never Summer or Burton. They will be reduced at some point but probably not until late next month, but it can change.
That’s my 2 cents anyway.
Got it. I’ll keep my eye out for a deal soon then. Just double checking – you don’t suppose I’ll have trouble riding any type of terrain or carving on the 138/139? I know you don’t go as fast on a shorter size but I’m not going super fast anyway… Is there any other major disadvantages? 2-3cm short won’t make me completely sink in powder will it? Thank you so so much for all the thoughtful responses.
Hi Eve
For you I put you on a range of 138cm to 142cm, based on your specs. On balance I intitally recommended the longer sizes in that range. Since you are an intermediate rider you will have the ability to ride more in that 141cm to 142cm range – but you don’t necessarily have too. Even without your narrow stance, though I would say you’d be fine on anything 138-139 – and with the new info about your narrower stance, I think the lower end of your range is probably more appropriate.
In terms of advantages and disadvantages for going longer shorter, the most noticeable are, IMO:
Shorter: More maneuverable/nimble, easier to spin, easier for riding switch
Longer: More stability at speed, better float in powder, better for carving
So you are going to get less in terms of float in powder on those shorter sizes – but you won’t just sink! You may have to put in a little more effort to keep the nose up but nothing significant. If you do ride powder a lot, then the longer sizes are preferable – but also, if riding in powder is something you do a lot, then there are probably more appropriate boards for you. If you are only riding powder every now and then, then I’d stay with these two boards.
Hi Nate,
After thinking through all your advice I got the Talent Scout 141 and got a chance to take it out last weekend. It was great – awesome pop in the park and great edge hold all around, and I was able to ride switch way better on it than I ever had in the past. Thanks again for your help!
Eve
Oh I did widen my stance out for the board to the reference stance, and to my surprise it felt a lot comfortable to me than in the past.
Hi Eve
You’re very welcome. So awesome that your into your new board. I love hearing gear success stories! Keep on riding and have an awesome rest of the season on your new board!
Nate – Just curious – noticed you don’t have a review on the Talent Scout, did you test it? How does it compares to the other All-mountain Freestyle women’s boards you’ve reviewed in your opinion?
Hi Eve
The Talent Scout is what I term an aggressive all-mountain-freestyle board. I haven’t done anything with women’s aggressive all-mountain-freestyle boards – mostly because there aren’t that many of them. But putting it through my all-mountain-freestyle criteria the Talent Scout rates very well. It scores an 85.7/100 in my system. It would score even higher as an aggressive all-mountain freestyle board.
Note that I don’t physically test women’s boards. My ratings for women’s boards are based on ratings from the most similar men’s option (there is usually a very similar option with just some minor tweaks (if any) and different sizings) and from the specs of the board.
So to answer your question – if I had included it in my all mountain freestyle boards it would have rated 4th. I might include the aggressive all-mountain-freestyle options in the all-mountain freestyle ratings next season (just because there aren’t that many options to have a category of its own).
Hope this makes sense and answers your question
hi Nate,
very useful article. I’m using a burton custom 156 and i’m going to change with capita DOA. I’m 174 cm and 85 kg. intermediate/advanced level. Boot size 10 US.
I’m undecided about the length of the capita DOA (156 or 158?). What do you suggest me?
Thank you
Hi Pier
For a lot of boards, I’d say 158 for you. But for the DOA, I think 156cm should definitely be considered. The effective edge of the DOA (largely down to the Camber profile) is quite long as a ratio of effective edge to overall length – so the 156 rides a little longer than your typical 156cm.
I rode the 156cm and I loved it. I thought initially it might be a little bit short but it was spot on for me for this type of board and the types of things I was doing on it (I’m 183cm and 80-85kg depending) but was around 84kg when I rode the DOA.
So yeah, I would go with 156cm if I was you. That’s not to say that the 158cm is out of the question. That size would also work and have some advantages but on balance I think the 156cm would be better – that’s size I’d go for in that board.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
thank you for your quick reply. I’ve just found this table for capita :
http://www.evo.com/capita-snowboard-size-chart.aspx
Is it reliable for you?
Hi Pier
Thanks for that. I have seen evo’s size charts. I would say they’re as reliable as other snowboard manufacturer’s weight recommendations – but I tend to take them all with a grain of salt. They are guidelines and I do take them into consideration when recommending sizes – but they aren’t the be all and end all and I find that if you follow them too strictly, you can end up with a less than ideal size.
In some cases, you might be bang in the middle of those recommendations and at other times you might be just outside them.
Really awesome site, Nate.
I switched over from skiing to boarding a few years ago, mostly because it’s a little safer for my knees that don’t have cartilage anymore. I rented for a few years, but looking to buy now. I’m 6′, 195 pounds w 12.5 boots. Intermediate/advanced level and pretty much stick to that exclusively; i.e. just do blues and blacks all day, never and park/pipe and no plans to change.
I’m thinking about the Rossi One Magtek 161W. Do you have an opinion on the board choice for my style and the size? Thanks, in advance!
Hi Ryan
I think something in the range of 160 to 163 is a good length for you, generally speaking though it does depend on the board. And in terms of width, with 12.5s I’d say you’d want to look at something with a waist width somewhere in the 262mm to 268mm range, give or take.
For the One Magtek, the 161W would definitely be your best bet. So you’re on the right track there, IMO.
I think it would also be suitable for what you do. The Rossi One is a great all round board. It’s not great for jibbing – but that won’t be an issue for you – and it’s also not the best (but not terrible) with jumps – not terrible pop but not great pop either – but it doesn’t sound like that’s something you’ll be doing much, if any, of either.
So, I think it would be a good choice for you overall and the 161W would work well for you. Also, if you tend to ride in hard and icy conditions, the One has great edge-hold on those conditions.
Hope this helps.
This helps a ton, thanks. And especially for the prompt response. Would you assume that the 157W would be too short? I think 159 is usually great for me but W isn’t offered at that length.
Ice can happen but we only go to CO/UT, so it’s not usually an issue. Last one, are there any other boards that would suit me better and/or be more cost effective as I usually only ride about 6-8 days/year?
Hi Ryan
I think 157W wouldn’t necessarily be too short but I think you would get more benefit out of a slightly longer board than that. If you were going to be more freestyle focused, then 157 would be ok. But at the 157 you will loose a little bit in terms of stability at speed and float in powder. That’s not to say that you couldn’t go that short. If you feel you like shorter boards, then you could go for it – it would have the advantage of being a bit more nimble (and some other advantages like being better at spins but that doesn’t sound like it applies to you). Keep in mind also that if you are over the weight recommendations that the flex of the board will likely feel softer than what it’s rated as.
In terms of cost, the One is actually pretty reasonably priced for this type of snowboard. The average price for this type of snowboard is around $510 (of the boards that I look at) but that wouldn’t include some of the budget brands – I don’t look at those brands so I couldn’t say what kind of quality they have.
I’d say the best option if you were looking to save money would be the Slash Brainstorm ($50 cheaper than the One and a great board) but I think it’s sold out everywhere in the US – everywhere I know of anyway. Most of the other boards I would recommend of this type would be around the price of the Rossi One or a bit more. But there are a few other options – the YES Typo being one but it’s probably a little bit more on the freestyle side of all-mountain.
The others would be:
~ Rossignol Angus ($50 cheaper than the One)
~ Rossignol Templar ($100 cheaper than the One)
~ K2 Raygun ($80 cheaper than the One)
~ Ride Manic ($60 cheaper than the One)
But you would be sacrificing a little bit in quality with those, IMO.
Take a look at the link below if you’re looking for more options. Most of those will be the same as or more than the One though (apart from the Typo and Brainstorm).
~ My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Probably the best way to save money, IMO, is to look at past seasons boards – not going too many seasons back, but if you can find a 2015 or 2016 model, I think you are better off going for a quality board in an older model, than a new board that you have to sacrifice quality on. You could also look into going second hand if you can find something that isn’t too old and in good condition.
Really great info. Thanks for taking the time!
You’re very welcome Ryan. Thanks for visiting the website. Hope this has helped you to find the best board for your needs.
Hey Nate, thanks for the article.
I’m having a sizing dilemma, would really appreciate any advice you can give me.
I currently have a NS Proto 157 (more like 158/9 cause it’s snub) and Union Atlas bindings which is the all mountain freestyle board I’ve fallen in love with.
Found myself spending a lot of time in the park recently and looking for something more park/street orientated. Scott Stevens is my favourite rider in this category so found myself looking at his board which is similar to Capita Ultrafear. I’m thinking about this with Union Contact bindings but can’t decide whether to go 153/5.
I’d like to end up using the Proto from powder to park and the Stevens from park to street.
I’m 5’10/11″ and 85 KG.
Hey Rick
That’s a tough one. Usually I’d say 155cm but usually people want something that they can take down groomers when they want – and the 155cm is probably generally speaking more suited to your weight. But if it’s your second board and it’s going to specialize in park & street, then 153cm is definitely an option. Especially given that you’ve got the 157cm (even if it does ride longer) – it would add a bigger contrast to that.
Personally (and I’m pretty similar 6’0″ and 82-84kgs) I would go 155cm just because I find anything under 154cm I tend to feel unstable on – but it’s a tough call. I think 155cm is the safer bet but there’s an argument to go 153cm.
Hope this helps with your decision – even if I couldn’t be more definite with my answer!
Hello Nate,
Great stuff you’re doing with these articles.
I am wondering if Nitro 160 would be too big for me.
My measurements are: 180 cm height + 83-85 kg in weight.
Thanks a lot for your work.
Emil
Forgot to specify that it’s Nitro Pantera 2016 160
Hi Emil
Thanks for your message.
Assuming that you are an advanced rider and that you want an aggressive board, then the 160cm would be a good size for you. Just know that the Pantera is quite stiff and has a traditional camber profile and a directional shape. It’s quite an aggressive board and would be difficult to ride for a beginner or intermediate rider. But if you are advanced/suit that style, then I think the 160 would be fine.
Thanks Nate for the reply.
I read that the Pantera is a beast, I happen to be more of an intermediate rider so this is why I wanted to jump here and grab some information :). Do you happen to know if there are differences between Pantera 2016 and Quiver Mountain 2016 in terms of stiffness?
I did not manage to find a lot of information out on the internet and I would really appreciate it. I’m second guessing my choice for the Pantera and wondering if Quiver Mountain would be a more suitable choice.
Could you recommend other boards suited for carving + some off piste?
Emil
Hi Emil
I think that the Quiver Mountain is a little bit softer flexing and maybe a little less aggressive but still pretty aggressive/stiff. But that’s based on my limited knowledge of Nitro boards and on some quick research. Unfortunately Nitro isn’t a brand that I demo currently.
As an intermediate rider and based on your specs, I think ideally you would drop down in size just a touch – to something around a 158-159. I know it doesn’t sound like much but it can make a difference.
Good for carving and off-piste you would want to look at a freeride or an all-mountain board. Most freeride boards are quite stiff so the all-mountain option might be the better option for you. Typically an all-mountain board tries to be good at a bit of everything but some are more suited to powder, carving etc than others.
Check out the links below for some freeride and all-mountain options – you can see the specs in the tables that show how good they are (IMO) at powder, carving speed etc. I’d say that the Quiver Mountain is a freeride board and the Pantera is an aggressive all mountain board – but like I say I don’t know that much about Nitro boards.
~ My Top 10 All-Mountain Snowboards
~ My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards
If you find anything you like, let me know and I can recommend what I think is the best size for you.
Really appreciate the reply.
I looked over the list you’ve provided, but unfortunately those boards are just at a high price in my region, or just unavailable :).
I took into account the fact you mentioned that I should go a bit lower in terms of length, so I found what seems a good deal for Capita Outerspace living 158.
I saw great reviews about this one, I just don’t know if it’s the one that’s going to help me improve my carving, Nitro quiver seems more suitable(but it’s 160)
Really hope to get your input on this one as well.
Emil
Hi Emil
I haven’t had a chance to ride the Outerspace Living yet (will be riding the 2018 model in a couple of weeks) but from what I know of it I think it is actually a decent carver – maybe not to the level of the Quiver Mountain – but if the Quiver Mountain is going to be difficult and not fun to ride for you, then I don’t think that will necessarily be a good thing for your carving. I think the Outerspace Living would be an easier board to progress on – and you can definitely learn carving on it.
The only real weakness is in powder – you can ride it in powder but it will just be a bit more effort keeping the nose above deep snow. It might become annoying if you’re in powder a lot – but if you don’t get in powder that often then it would be suitable.
Hope this helps
Went with the Outerspace Living, thanks for helping out :).
Maybe you can post your opinion on the board after you ride it, would be nice.
Thanks again. Cheers
Hi Emil.
Will do. Would be great to hear what you think too once you have a chance to ride it
Hey Nate,
I just returned from a 3 day holiday at one of our ski resorts. I think I just reached the next level with this one. The board is amazingly fast and is the most responsive board I’ve been on. I was really impressed with how it turned and its stability over high speeds, the flex is medium, so it’s easy to butter if you want. Usually I take my time and do a couple of runs to see how the board behaves, but with this one after the 3rd turn I could tell it wanted more so I just had to go all out :).
Unfortunately the slope had lots of icy parts and carving at times was really difficult, but I think the board should do fine on fresh groomers and allow me to get nice and low in one mindblowing carve :). All in all I am pleased with the purchase, the board definitely took my snowboarding to the next level. Would be really nice to hear if you were able to ride this one yet. Cheers man, thanks a lot.
Hey Emil
Thanks for letting me know your experience on the Outerspace Living. Awesome that it sounds like the perfect board for your progression!
Still haven’t had a chance to ride this yet – but I should be getting some Capita boards to demo this week, so I’ll definitely make sure that I get the Outerspace Living in that lot. It’s one of the boards that I’ve been looking forward to demoing this season. Will let you know what I think after I’ve ridden it.
So, any thoughts on Capita Outer Space Living?:)
Emil
Hi Emil
Still haven’t had a chance to ride it yet. I’m still waiting to grab some Capita gear to demo from my contact. I have set myself a reminder to reply to this comment once I’ve ridden it, so I will get back to you. Hopefully I will get some stuff next week but it’s out of my control as to when it will be available. Thanks for your patience
Hi Emil
I rode the Outerspace Living (2018 model) today and what can I say except WOW!. Loved this board. It might end up being my new deck next season, I think. I actually got hold of both the 156cm and 158cm so it was good to also be able to test the 2 sizes head to head.
Definitely some noticeable differences between the two sizes – very slight and subtle but noticeable (always amazes me the difference 2cms can make!).
But overall it’s light and snappy and has plenty of pop. Nice and fast base with good glide. Stable at speed and a good board for carving in my opinion. Really quick edge-to-edge, really fun on jumps and natural hits and was one of the easiest boards to spin of the 2018 models I’ve demoed so far this year.
I would say it will definitely be making my all-mountain freestyle list next season.
Hey Nate,
I’m really pleased you find this board same as I did, just wow :).
Definitely a keeper as it completely changed the way I ride, increasing my confidence during higher speeds, responding fast when initiating turns.
I’m curious about one thing, if you tried other stance on the board than the one indicated on the inserts. I tried one size smaller stance for one day and found it more easier on the legs overall as my thighs were more relaxed and the board was insanely alive, but when trying to get lower on the heels I could not apply the same pressure as I did when riding with the recommended stance.
Question is : Keeping a smaller stance than the one suggested will prevent me from benefiting from the board’s camber profile?(as my position would be more centered so pressure will be applied differently).
As always, happy to see your reply.
Emil
Hi Emil
I try to stick to the reference stance as much as possible – for the reason that you suggest, the position of the camber profile and the position of the sidecut. But that said, I do stray from the reference stance sometimes and I think as long as you’re not going too far from it, it’s ok. For example, for the 156cm for this particular board, I actually went marginally wider than the reference stance. I was on reference stance for the 158cm.
If you feel more comfortable in a narrower stance, then it’s something you could go with, but I wouldn’t move it too far from that recommended stance. Also, you would have to weight up whether you would prefer to have weigh up whether getting low on the heel edge is more important (as you said you couldn’t get as low on the narrower stance) or if relaxed legs are more important. Sometimes a narrower stance can also increase quick maneuverability (at the cost of a bit of stability usually) which is probably why you felt that liveliness.
Thanks Nate, I really appreciate the feedback.
Take care.
Emil
Hi
What would you recommend for 5’9 tall 200 lb beginner?
Was looking at 158cm board on sale, but not sure about it….
Thanks!
Hi Al
In theory a 158cm could be suitable for you but can you let me know the brand/model of board that you are looking at. Getting the right length is very important but there are also other factors that could make a particular snowboard suitable or unsuitable for a beginner.
Hi Nate!
What would you recommend for a 5’0, 144 lb beginner for snowboard length on a Burton Progression? Appreciate the input!
Hi Katie
I’m not familiar with the Burton Progression but generally speaking for you I would say something in the range 142cm to 144cm.
Unfortunately I can’t comment on the suitability of that particular board for you because I’m not familiar with it – or if it even comes in one of those sizes. I’m also not sure if it’s a men’s or women’s board or if the board would be too narrow or wide for your boot size. I couldn’t really find much information online about it either.
If you have any more information about the board (waist width, camber profile, any other specs) that would be helpful. And also if you do have other specs like waist width if you can let me know your boot size and I can give you my opinion as to whether I think the width would be suitable.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
This is the offered snowboard that was for beginners for rental equipment. I found info that someone contacted Burton and was told that the Burton Progression as quoting that person ‘part of their Experience LTR program, made specifically for resorts and rental stores it is not available for sale. This board features their V Rocker profile—which is full rocker….This board has rocker in nose and tail, and flat between the feet for stability.’
I didn’t know if real size shoe/boot was different from snow boot size so I inquired with the rental place and told them my real size info and they recommended either 5 or 5.5 since typically you go down a size for snow boots. And they would have me try on some to see which works.
The specs I found on the Burton Progression Snowboard from calling the rental place + online :
True twin shape
Length: 134-160 cm
Width: 23.5 cm/250 mm
Camber: V-Rocker
Flex: Soft / 3-4 range
Hi Katie
Thanks for the extra info.
Yeah normally snowboard boots are around a half a size, sometimes a whole size smaller than a normal shoe size. But this isn’t always the case. Sometimes it can end up being the same size. Sometimes it depends on the boot brand. Sometimes it depends on foot shape.
Anyway, assuming you get in a 5, 5.5 or 6 boot, you should be good on a board with a waist width in a range of roughly 230mm to 240mm. And as per my last comment, I think the best size for you would be something in the range 142cm to 144cm (but that’s making the assumption you are a beginner – otherwise I’d say anything between 144cm and 147cm).
Each different length of board will have a different width – it sounds like the 134cm will have a 235mm waist width and the 160cm will have a 250mm waist (just looking at the ranges you gave me). So assuming that the board that comes in the 142 to 144 range of length will have something around a 240mm waist, then I think the size will be fine for you.
But I’m only making guesses based on the info. What are the size options that you have found? I’m assuming you have found this second hand – given that they are rental boards?
Hey Nate,
Yes I got the info on the boards width, length, camber, and flex from the rental place when I called. If you meant size options for lengths, that was the range of board lengths they carry from 134 all the way to 160 cm. The width was for one that got measured for me which was the 134 cm length board.
The person replied it was about guess estimate 250 mm at first but they could measure it if I wanted, which they came back with the 23.5 cm for exact measurement waist width for the 134 cm length board. Apologies for the confusion. haha.
So even with that clear up in info, the 142-144 cm length range would still be what I would be going for?
Hi Katie
I just clicked that you are sizing for renting and not for buying right!?
Actually if this is your first time riding or one of the first times and you’re renting, you could probably go a little shorter than that. Maybe something between 139cm and 141cm or the closest to that they have.
If the 23.5cm is the waist width on the 134cm board then I assume that the waist width on the board that falls somewhere in that 142 to 144 range (assuming there is one) will be reasonable for your predicted boot length. As long as it’s not more than about 24.0cm then it shouldn’t be too wide for you if you get into size 5.5 to size 6.0 boots. And I wouldn’t worry about it being too narrow as even the 23.5cm wouldn’t be too narrow for you.
Hope this answers your questions
Whoops! Please delete the second similar post since I thought maybe I didn’t hit submit earlier on and saw nothing ‘waiting moderation’ when I came to see if their was any update! haha
Hi Katie
Message deleted 🙂 – and the other one responded to
Haha right! And yes that answers it and was very helpful! Appreciate it very much! Thanks Nate!
You’re very welcome – hope you have a great time on the mountain!
Hey Nate I’m from the East (ice) coast 178lbs 5’11 100% Park rider. I’m currently using 154 twin can I use 152 twin or is that too small for me? Is it gonna make a big difference? I also skateboard in the off season. Thanks for the help appreciate your time
Hi Lou
Generally speaking I would say that 152cm would be too short for you, but I wouldn’t say it’s a hard and fast no.
It will make some difference. You’ll loose a bit of stability at speed but that may not be an issue if you’re in the park the whole time. You might loose a bit of stability for landings but if the board is decently wide, then that would negate that. And of course float in powder would be lessened but if you’re 100% in the park and on the ice coast, then that shouldn’t be a problem.
To an extent a shorter board can be better in ice as it won’t accelerate as quickly and can be easier to apply more pressure to the edge – but in saying that the 154cm is already going reasonably short for you – and you’ll have less edge to dig in (all else being equal like side-cut & camber profile). The shorter length will also help to make spins a bit easier – but again, I think that the length you have now should be pretty easy to spin anyway.
For me, I’m 185lbs and 6’0″ and I really like 155cm if I’m purely in the park. I don’t really like going less than 155 for anything. So if I was you I might go down to 154 but don’t think I would go as short as 152. That said, everyone is different and has different preferences and I’m on the West coast so different conditions too.
Hope this gives you something more to go off
Hi Nate!
I was hoping you could help me decide on a board to get. I currently ride a 147 Burton Lux, looking to upgrade to the Burton Lipstick and I’m in between sizes as they only have a 145 or 149.
I am about 56g, 5’3, size 7 womens. Typically I like to freeride, but I’m looking for an all-mountain board as I am getting a hang of riding switch, getting into . Which size should I lean towards..?
Thanks!
Hi Kim
Out of those two sizes I would definitely go with the 145cm for you. I think the 149cm would be too long, especially if you are wanting to go for an all-mountain size and want to learn switch. I think the 149cm would be too long for your purposes – definitely the 145cm – and this will be a good width for your size 7s too.
Hope this helps
Awesome Nate! Thanks for the insight. It helps a lot 🙂
You’re welcome Kim. Hope the rest of your season is awesome and you enjoy your new board!
Hi nate, this article is super awesome and useful! Anyway I was wondering if I could get your thoughts on what I could consider for my second board. Im 5’2, about 100 lbs and a US size 7 for my boots. I’m currently riding a Salomon gypsy grom (girls’) in the 133cm length and sorta at the intermediate level. In terms of my requirements, I’m looking for something which can deal with both icy, hard packed snow and powder on both groomed slopes and off piste especially since skiing in Japan can be very unpredictable. I’d like something which will help me get more stability, and help me progress in coming down the steeper blues and blacks as well as help me grow into doing off piste / going backcountry. I’ve taken a look at your page on top women’s all mountain boards but some are probably too Long for me since the ideal length would be 141/142 based on some of my research? I’d also love to hear your thoughts on whether something which is directional -twin / asymmetrical would really help me with more control as I don’t deal well with a lot of speed. Thanks so much!!
– Z
Hi Yizhen
So to me it sounds like you’re looking for, and correct me if I’ve missed something, a board that can help you to progress, that is good in hard/icy conditions, is nice and stable, but isn’t really challenging to ride, isn’t too fast and has decent float in powder for those off piste excursions and backcountry missions.
Based on all of that, I think that something with a directional twin shape is a good way to go, something with a medium flex (stepping it up a bit from your gypsy in terms of flex), something that has a bit of a setback stance but not too much (for easier float in powder), something a bit longer (will help with stabiliity) but not too long (or it will be too fast). In terms of size I think something around a 139 to 140 would be best, IMO – you could go a bit longer like 141/142 but that is going to add some speed and make the board a little more challenging to ride – it will add extra stability and better float in powder – but I think the benefits you are going to get from moving up from 133 to 139 will be more than enough for that – and the extra stability of the medium flex and the extra float from having a setback will also be aiding that. So I think going even longer would take your board too far in the other direction.
Hope this is making sense so far!
So….based on all of that I would recommend:
Unfortunately I couldn’t find too many in the size we are looking at that had all these things and a setback stance – so this list is compromising on the setback stance.
~ GNU Velvet Gnuru 139cm
~ Never Summer Proto Type Two 139cm
~ Capita Jess Kimura Pro 138cm
If you didn’t want to compromise on the setback stance (which will make riding in powder easier), and were willing to size up a bit then you could go:
~ Never Summer Infinity 142cm
~ Jones Twin Sister 143cm
~ Rossignol Frenemy 144cm
Actually I tell a lie there’s also the Salomon Wonder – which comes in a 139cm. It has a 10mm setback.
Anyway, hope this has given you some options to consider.
Hi Nate,
You’ve got it spot on! Thanks so much for these recommendations! I’m probably speaking too soon but I do want to get a board which I can use for the next 2-3 years once I’ve managed to grow into it and sort of peaked. It’d be great if I could make the next purchase really count instead of having a new board everything I manage to level up. This is also cause I live in Singapore and I don’t get to hit the slopes as much as you guys every season. I therefore won’t be able to justify a new board if I do go ahead with this purchase. As such, should I be willing to size up and go with a more aggressive board, what do you think about:
– The GNU Velvet Gnuru 143cm
– Never Summer Proto Type Two 142cm
– Capita Jess Kimura Pro 142cm
Secondly, of these 3 choices and the infinity, twin sister and fremeny, which would be your top recommendation?
Really appreciate the help Nate!!!!!!! Thank you so much in advance.
Hi nate, spent the entire day reading through all the specs and I’ve narrowed it down to the following three. NS summer proto type 2 (139 or 142), jones twin Sister (139,143) or the rossignol diva (140). Would be great to get your opinion on which board and length would be the most suitable. Thanks!
Hi Yizhen
I’m still a fan of you going closer to 139/140 so I think the Proto Type 2 139, the Jones Twin Sister 139 and the Diva 140 are the best sizes.
Out of those I think the Twin Sister 139cm would be my pick. It’s the most versatile, in my opinion and I think it would be the most suitable for you.
The Proto Type 2 is slightly more freestyle focused and won’t offer as much in powder as the other 2. It’s otherwise a great option though.
The Diva is an option. It is a little bit more aggressive than the other two. So there would be a steeper learning curve on it – and I think the Twin Sister is just a bit more versatile across different conditions and it’s not something that you’ll ever need to replace if you didn’t want to. It could take you right up to an expert level.
They would all work but my vote would go to Twin Sister 139cm.
You’re very welcome Yizhen.
I think any of those would work for you but I think I would go with either the Never Summer Infinity 142cm or the Jones Twin Sister 143cm. And out of those just the Never Summer Infinity, just because I think it is marginally the better size for you. Since you are willing to size up, these will be the best options, IMO because they will ride powder better. Since you ride in Japan and will likely see a fair bit of powder (from what I hear) I think you’ll really appreciate this aspect of these boards.
These are boards that you shouldn’t really ever need to replace if you didn’t want to. I only left out the Frenemy because I think the 144cm size is getting too long for you, IMO.
Thank you so so much Nate. I’ve gone ahead to purchase a Twin Sister 139, managed to find one online for a sweet 350 USD!
Nice work Yizhen!
Let me know how it goes once you get a chance to ride it. Would be really interested to hear your thoughts. Enjoy your new ride!
Hi Nate – love the in depth articles!
I’m looking at my second snowboard (retiring the first). I’m not too aggressive and spend little to no time in the park. I really tighten up when there’s ice/hard snow involved. I’m fairly conservative but would like to ramp up my game a bit. I spend most of my days in Squaw Valley.
My stats: 5’9″ – 175 pounds – 10.5 US boot – 46 years old
I’ve been riding a 2011 Burton Blunt 156W for the past five seasons. It was purchased on a whim.
I’m considering the Rossi One. Do you think this is a good option for me? Also, I’ve been debating between the 156 and 159. What do you think?
Thanks!
I also should have suggested that I’m squarely intermediate.
Hi Norm
Thanks for the message. I think the Rossignol One could be a good option for you based on what you’re describing. It’s not too aggressive but it’s versatile and is good in hard/icy conditions.
In terms of size, I think that both sizes could work for you and what you go with will depend on what you value more out of a board. There are advantages to going shorter and longer.
The 156 will be a bit more nimble, quicker edge-to-edge and better for spins (if you were going to be doing those). It will feel slightly less aggressive than the 159 – though the board isn’t aggressive anyway so the 159 won’t feel aggressive, just that the 156 will be less so, if that makes sense.
The 159 will be a bit more stable at speed and float better in powder – so if you ride in powder a lot, then the 159 is probably more suitable.
The 156 has a 252mm waist width. I think you would be fine on this but it is at the minimum I would go for with size 10.5s. But going with that minimum edge will increase edge-to-edge speed. The 159 has a 254mm waist width – which would be the safer bet if you were worried about too much overhang – but still narrower than your current board – so likely to increase edge-to-edge speed from your current board (258mm waist).
The other option would be the 157W but I think that would actually be a little too wide for you (264mm).
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Thanks very much for your help! I went with the 159.
You’re very welcome Norm. Hope you enjoy your new board and the rest of your season!
Hey Nate,
Thank you for all the information. I am due for a new board and not sure on what size to get. I’m 6’3″ 220 pounds and would consider myself an advance rider. I want to get the Capita Warpspeed and can’t decide on the 165 or the 169. I have been boarding for about 12 years on a 163 burton and have enjoyed the maneuverability. I stay out of the park and enjoy going fast so the 169 is appealing to me but I’m not sure if it’s too big. I enjoy going fast, through trees from time to time and will always look for powered and the occasional jump. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Hi Blake
Thanks for your message.
Based on your height/weight, ability level and other factors (such as your current board length, and the fact that you like to ride in trees) I think that the 165cm would be your best bet, on balance.
The 169cm would offer a bit more stability at speed and a bit more surface area for float in powder – so there are definitely advantages to going that way – but the 165cm has the advantage of faster edge-to-edge, being more nimble and being less of a change from your current board.
That doesn’t make the 169cm off limits for you – but on balance I would be leaning towards the 165cm.
Hope this helps.
Hi, Nate,
Great article and communication.
Last week I’ve got a Burton Feather 155 snowboard as a present from my husband, but now I am wondering if it is not too big for me.
My measurements are: 175 cm height + 64 kg in weight + shoe size is 11(US). I gess I’m more intermediate than beginner all-mountain rider.
Thanks a lot in advance.
Jurgita
Hi Jurgita
Thanks for your message. I don’t think the 155cm is unworkable – but I would have recommended something more like a 152cm.
The other thing is that I think something a little wider would be better. Something with a waist width of 249mm or up.
So, in my opinion, it’s a little bit long and a little bit narrow. It’s not way off but not ideal.
Hope this helps
Help!! I am super new to snowboarding. I rented once and had a lesson from a guy who really did not teach me anything. I had fun screwing around after the lesson was over in the slushy conditions but I want to go back.
Rental gear was pretty beat up 156 off brand board. I am 6’2 240 with size 13 boots. I don’t see my self in the park ever. I just want to carve up some snow and keep up with my wife and friends as they ski the groomed slopes! Where do I start when looking for gear? I have read several posts and I get a lot of different info. Wide board, 163 to 165. Seems to be consistent but everything else is different. I assumed an all mountain board but after reading some posts here maybe a free ride board would be better? Suggestions for boots bindings and board would be greatly appreciated! I will be mostly east coast boarding with the occasional trip out west.
Hi Tini
Yeah I’d say somewhere between 161 to 164. Will certainly need to go wide with size 13s – a waist width of 265mm and up preferably.
I don’t think a freeride board would be a good option – just because they are not that easy to ride if you’re not an experienced rider – also, if you’re not going to be riding that much in the backcountry or off piste, then there’s not a lot of need for a freeride board (which are also usually more expensive).
I think you should be either looking at a beginner board or an all-mountain board.
If you want to check out some options for beginner boards, boots & bindings as well as all mountain boards, boots and bindings – check out the links below.
~ My Top 5 Beginner Snowboards
~ My Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Bindings
~ My Top 7 Beginner Snowboard Boots
~ My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
~ My Top 5 All Mountain Snowboard Bindings
~ My Top 5 All Mountain Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps – if you narrow it down to some options and want some advice on whether a specific option is suitable or not feel free to ask.
Thanks. I’ll check these out and send back my selections for a QC. When I look at weight limits on most boards the top out around 205. There has to be boards for big guys out there!
Talk to you soon
Hi Tini
I wouldn’t put too much emphasis on those weight guidelines – I would call them guidelines rather than limits.
What will happen if you are above those guidelines is that the flex of the board will feel softer than what it was designed to be. This is fine though. This is why I included links to the all-mountain options as well as beginner options. As a beginner the best flex is medium-soft, IMO. But if you go for a medium flexing board (like a lot of the boards in that all-mountain list) and you are over the weight guidelines it will feel medium-soft to you – which is what we want.
If you go over the weight recommendations on a board that is already medium-soft, then you run the risk of it feeling a bit too soft.
Hope this helps – I forgot to explain this in my last response.
Hey. Thanks again. Yes that does help a bit. I just don’t know how far over is acceptable. Some other people recommended lib tech boards specifically the skunk ape 165w because it’s made for bigger guys. What’s your thought on that? It’s not a beginner board but a few posts I read say it’s a good big guy board to learn on.
From your board list I think the best 2 choices are Ride Agenda at 161W and Yes Basic 163W. In no specific order.
I have not had a ton of time to read up as I have been working a lot. So this weekend I will hopefully get everything figured out. Thanks for the advice. Too many variables on the boards to go in shooting blind!
Hi Tini
I actually think that the Skunk Apes could be a good option. It’s not strictly a beginner board but it wouldn’t be the worst board to learn on by any means. I think it would be ideal in terms of width for you. And like I say, it doesn’t look like the worst to start out on by any means. I haven’t ridden it myself and with size 10s I wouldn’t be able to accurately test it so I’m not likely to ride it and what information I got from it wouldn’t be accurate – but just based on specs and a little bit of research about other people’s opinions on it, I think this could work for you.
The only thing is weather the 165W or the 161W would be the better choice. There are advantages to both but in terms of being easier to learn on, the 161W would be the easier size to learn on.
The YES Basic 163W and Ride Agenda 161W would work too but my concern would be that they’re still on the narrow side for size 13s. They’re close but they are risking being a bit too narrow.
There are a lot of variables with snowboards – so definitely pays to do your research.
Thanks again Nate. I got the same comment from a friend about the 161 vs 165 from a friend who used to ride but he said he is not quite up to date on the current trends. Too bad they don’t make a 163W! I’ll probably lean toward the lib tech board because of the width. It’s a 7 on stiffness which might make it harder to learn on but being on the heavier side it might flex a bit more.
Now on to the boots and bindings. I assume they should match the flex of the board? I’ll pass along my ideas after I look over your recommended lists.
Thanks again for all your help.
If you think of anything else let me know.
You’re welcome Tini.
If you go with the 161W that will feel a bit softer flexing than the 165 – so that’s probably another reason to go with that.
In terms of boots and bindings it’s a good idea to get close to matching in flex. But it doesn’t have to be exact. You wouldn’t put a 3/10 binding on an 8/10 board. But if you wanted to put something 5-6/10 say with a 7/10 board or an 8-9/10 with a 7/10 board then that’s doable. In your case I would err on the softer side of 7 – no more than a flex of 7 for your boots and bindings and preferably more like a 6/10.
Hope this helps.
Hey there,
After 10 years of riding on a K2 Darkstar 2007 L159 I wanted to go a bit faster and more freeride/carving and wanted something I could have more fun with learn to be better with in powder. I bought a Flow Rush 2017 L161 and it just feels perfect for my needs. I was a bit sceptical when I was recommended to go from 159 to 161 on an even harder board (flex 7 compared to the old flex 3). But oh boy – I had so much fun until it went missing/got stolen in Avoriaz.
I am 182 cm and weighs 70 kg – so I guess 161 is to the long end?
Cheers
Hi Martin
Sucks that your board was lost or stolen!
I would say that 161 is at the long end but it’s not too long – certainly not if you’re using it in powder a fair bit. I would say for a more all-mountain ride something around 159cm to 160cm is what I would recommend but 161cm is certainly fine for more freeride/powder kind of stuff.
Also, length isn’t an exact science or anything and some people just have personal preferences for longer boards and some for shorter boards. I’ve heard of people with your specs riding 165cm+ boards – they’re mostly using them for powder but yeah it’s definitely not extremely long for you. If that’s what you like then no problems going for that size again.
The other thing to keep in mind is that some boards of the same length will feel longer or shorter in reality depending on some other factors – like Camber profile, effective edge and side cut. So if you were to keep with something similar to the Flow Rush – or to get another Flow Rush – then I would go 161cm again if you liked that.
Hope this answers your question.
Hi Nate! Really like your website but to be honest I’m a little overwhelmed so hopefully you can help me out. I’m about 5’9 and weigh 140 pounds. I’m not very good and like a lot of control (just learning how to carve properly). This is my first snowboard and I have no idea what to look for when it comes to brands, length, weight etc. I frequently go to Heavenly and rent from them. The last time I was there they gave me a 147. According to all of these charts that seems too short? I really liked the board but if im going to be buying one I want it to be perfect. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks!!(:
Hi Megan
I don’t think 147cm is necessarily too short for you. I would say something around a 152cm would be a good advanced level “all-mountain” kind of a length. But as you are still finding your confidence, then taking off a few centimeters is a good idea. And some people just prefer a shorter board. Some people have a preference for going a bit shorter than what would otherwise be recommended for them.
So I think 152cm would actually be too long for you at this point and would look at anywhere between 147cm and 149cm.
In terms of specific boards to look at, check out the links below.
~ Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
~ Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
If you find something in there that you think you like and think might be suitable, let me know and I can give you some specific advice on size and whether I think it’s suitable for you. Also, if you can let me know your boot size and I can advice you an appropriate width too.
It can definitely be overwhelming with all the options out there and I can definitely understand wanting to get it right, when you’re investing in gear.
Hope this helps and feel free to keep asking questions so that we can find the right gear for you.
Nate thank you so much for the feedback! I actually found a package deal on amazon that I’m really interested. The brand is called Flow, it’s a 148 and comes with the board, bindings and boots. I’m normally a size 9 so should I get the same size boots? In general is this a good deal (it’s 400)? Like I said this is my first board so I have no idea what I need.
Hi Megan
I know Flow a little bit. If you can let me know the model of the board, bindings and boots that would be great. Also the size options for the board. Just so that I can work out if it’s suitable for you.
I would say that 400 is a good price for the whole package like that – but that would also depend on the models.
Okay so the description is huge but what I can say is that it says it’s an EZ Flat Rocker, the bindings are a Flow Alpha LTD storm trooper and the boots are a Flow Vega BOA snowboard boots and they only have full sizes.
I don’t know what any of this means but hopefully that’s what you were looking for haha. Here’s the link in case you want to read more about it. I Reallyyyy appreciate you helping me out!!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MFCU2AU/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1488878359&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=flow+womens+snowboard+boots&dpPl=1&dpID=51dMA0Y1UVL&ref=plSrch#
Hi Megan
Thanks for the extra info. So it looks like it’s a Flow Burst snowboard. This isn’t one that I’ve heard of and I suspect it only comes as a part of packages. That said, it certainly sounds, based on the specs, like a beginner appropriate snowboard that should be easy to learn on and help you to progress. But this is only based on the specs that I see.
The boots I’m also not familiar with but based on a bit of research that look like they are soft flexing and should be easy to ride with – and the bindings are appropriate for a beginner.
In terms of boot sizing – it’s usually either your normal shoe size or half a size smaller – but there are exceptions. Sometimes people need to go half a size up too. So the safest bet would be to go with your normal shoe size – but there’s no guarantees this will be the best fit. I always recommend that boots are tried on in person before buying, when possible. But of course this isn’t always possible. So for you, if you can’t try them on, go with 9s.
Also I think that the 148cm size would be a good size for you.
In terms of value, I think you’d be roughly looking at $500 if buying separately – so you would save a bit through the package.
But as a disclaimer, I’m not that familiar with any of this gear, so this is all based on the specs that I could find.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
My girlfriend and I just got back from Marmot Basin with some friends and she seemed to really enjoy boarding even tho it’s been nearly 10 yrs for her.
My friends and I tried to get her skiing but the two skis and two poles and falling a few times turned her off so she decided to board at Marmot (she tried skiing a month before our trip here in Edmonton)
The first day for her was a lot of falling but you could tell she was more comfortable on a board vs skis tho with the falls she only managed to make it down the run 4-5x. The second day I booked her a lesson which seemed to make her more confident so much so we rode mid mountain greens down where as before she stuck to the bunny hop.
For the most part she did this leaf like thing.
So I would definitely say she’s a 1-2 on your beginner scale.
Long story short I’m interested in possibly picking up a board for her with end of season sales going on, seeing how she enjoyed herself and it will also get her more active during the winter months.
She is 5.2 1/2ft 5.3ft
not sure if boots would add another half inch or inches.
At the moment she’s a bit on the heavier side for herself at around 160lb but she tends to go up and down weight wise, 150ish being the norm of late but as low as 115.
Boot she wears a 6 6.5 US
So I was wondering if you might be able to recommend a size for her, I can’t recall the size she used at Marmot tho, the brand was Head.
I highly doubt she’d be in a park anytime soon and I think a free ride might be to advanced for her, mostly groomed runs at ski resorts if that’s a factor.
Also if I was to drop skiing and try to pick up boarding wit her so she didn’t have to go it alone, could you suggest a size for me as well.
6’4 ft bare foot
225lb regular clothing
11.5 to 13 US depends on brand Nike are narrow so 13. Work boots are 11 H’s haha. I’m not sure how snowboard boots work size wise. Ski boots were 30s unsure what that means if that helps.
Any help and information would and is, greaty appreciated.
Also.. sportchek nay or yay for snowboards? Big box store.
Hi Brian
Thanks for your message.
In terms of size I would say something between 145cm and 147cm would be a good size to go with for your girlfriend, generally speaking.
For you something around 159cm to 161cm. For width, you would likely need to go for a wide board. But how wide would depend on what size boots you were to fit into. But assuming you end up with an 11.5 then something with a waist width of around 260mm would be a good way to go (no narrower than 257mm and no wider than around 265mm).
Also keep in mind that if you are beginners that some boards are easier to ride than others so it’s a good idea to go with a board that is easier to learn on or it can be a challenging learning process. Check out the links below to learn more.
~ How to Choose a Snowboard for a beginner
~ Top 5 Women’s Snowboards for Beginners
~ Top 5 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
The following might also be of interest in terms of boot fit.
~ How to Size Snowboard Boots
Sportchek is fine – it will depend on the brand but from what I can see they stock some good boards there, so there are options at Sportchek.
Hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions
Hi
Really good article. I’m looking at a Rossi One Magtek ‘all mountain’ but not sure on the size. I’m about 6Ft 1in and 79KG. I’m on a 162 Custom at the moment, but the Magtek choices seem to be either a 159 or 161 wide. I’m 10 UK (11 US) boot, so i dont really want the wide. Do you think 159 is too short? I’m a intermediate/advanced rider who mainly does groomed slopes, small amount of freestyle, not much park.
Thanks
Hi Alasdair
Thanks for your message.
I actually think you might like the downsize to the 159. But it would be a bit of a getting used to. Not even so much the length difference – I think that 159 would be a great length for you given your height/weight, ability level and how you like to ride – but the “running length” difference. You’d be dropping from a 121 running length on the Custom to a 112 running length on the One Magtek (because of the rockered tip and tail on the One mostly – and a little bit because of the overall length being shorter too).
So it would feel a bit shorter for sure – but you would actually gain edge hold in harder/icy conditions, due to the One Magtek just being better in those conditions than the Custom.
Now this is assuming you are coming from a Custom Camber and not Custom Flying V – if you are coming from a Custom Flying V, then the transition won’t feel as different – they’re still very different boards but length-wise you wouldn’t feel it as much.
In terms of width the 159 One Magtek is definitely on the narrow end of your limits. I wouldn’t go any narrower than that 254mm mark. But I think you should get away with it. I would be more confident of you getting away with it if you had Adidas, Burton or Ride boots (just because they are more low profile. Jumping up to the 161W – I think you would be fine there length-wise as you are used to the 162 but waist width is jumping up to 266mm which I think is becoming a bit wide for your boots.
Hope this helps with your decision and gives you something more to go off
Hi Nate,
I am not sure if this article still alive but thanks for the great information.
I recently bought myself a 2017 Burton Custon Twin Flying V 158. I am 71 kg and 175 cm at age 45, intermediate level. I generally classify myself as a freerider but I also want to learn some new tricks like butters and switches. I picked this board because I want to go all-mountain, and do a little bit this and a little bit that. I am not planning to go for a park and do jibs as I feel a little bit old for that flexibility. Coming from a freerider background where I carve mostly I picked the 158. My new board is twin shaped, rocker in the middle, camber on the edges and a little bit stiff but not aggresive. Looks like it is stiff for doing butters but can suit switches. I just picked it as it sound logical with my story and it looked beatiful. but it still bothers me that should I have bought a 156 instead of 158 and a softer board. I didn’t have the chance to try all of the options. It really bothers me.
Hi Ahmet
I probably would have recommended the 156cm for you – but the 158cm isn’t way off. The 156cm would likely have been a little bit easier for butters but I think the 158cm isn’t like a massive board for you. It will be harder to learn butters on but is still doable. Certainly a softer flexing board and a shorter board would have made it easier to learn. But then you get advantages with the longer board as well – more stability at speed, better in powder, better for carving etc.
Also, remember that this post is just guidelines and people have personal preferences and not everyone’s best size will be what the tables here suggest.
Hi Nate,
Great site! Quick question : Beginner 6.2/ 188cm, 170/ 77kg: Raygun 156 or 159?? Just be on the piste… What do you suggest? Thanks!!
Hi Steven
I think that the 156 would be slightly better to begin with – but I think you would outgrow it very quickly. I think the 159cm would be fine for you as a beginner and is a board that you can hold onto for a lot longer. Also, what is your boot size? It may be that the 157W or the 160W are a better fit. Your boots might potentially be too big for the 156 or 159.
Hi Nate,
Raygun it is…. But do you mean with outgrow it..? I’am not going off piste/powder. Would i feel the difference on the piste? What’s better for carving? Or am i overthinking this issue? Thanks!!
Hi Steven
By outgrow I mean that it’s often a good idea to get a shorter board when you are a beginner because it makes it easier to link turns – but once you are confident linking turns there are advantages to going longer – such as more stability, better float in powder, more edge-hold and effective edge (which can help when you are on steeper terrain and for carving) and longer boards are quicker too. But they are a bit harder to ride and to learn to link turns on – so if you get a shorter board to start on you usually outgrow it after a couple of seasons once you have your linking of turns mastered and are looking for more stability for when you are riding faster and need more edge-hold.
You will definitely feel the difference on the piste between the 2 sizes.
Hi nate,
Thanks for the quick reply. Bootsize 9, so that’ s no problem…..
Or do you prefer the salomon pulse? Thanks.
Cool. Yeah you’ll be fine width-wise on either of those with size 9s.
I think either board would be fine as beginner boards. The Pulse is softer flexing and would be a more freestyle oriented board. The Raygun is more of an all mountain board – so if you think you’ll be more into freestyle later on then maybe go with the Pulse – if you’re not sure then I’d say the Raygun
Hi Nate
Great blog and really useful info. I’ve been boarding last 2 years and decided time is right to buy my own gear. I’m 41, prob low intermediate (few carves and can handle some steeper stuff) I’m mostly going on groomers/piste and unlikely my knees can handle any tricks 😉
I’m 180cms, 87kg without gear (hoping to be less soon!) and US Size 11.
I’ve got a great deal on a Salomon Sight with Rythm bindings in 158W. Just wanted to double check if this sizing is ok given I’ve never bought or owned before. Thanks in advance, martyn
Sorry other option I had was on a Salomon Craft board also a 158. I’d thought the Sight might be a better option based on level and type of riding but let me know as both have great deals on price!
Hi Martyn
I think that the Craft in the 158cm would work for you as well both in terms of length and width and I think it will work for your ability level too. It’s a little bit more advanced than the sight. I would say that the sight is beginner to advanced and the Craft is intermediate to advanced. I wouldn’t recommend the craft for a beginner necessarily but for an intermediate rider it would be fine.
In terms of style, the Craft is what I would class as an all-mountain-freestyle snowboard, whereas the Sight is more of an all-mountain snowboard. From what you describe, both these boards would work for your style but maybe the Sight slightly more.
Hi Martyn
I think a 158cm would be a great size for you based on your specs and ability level/style. That would be the size I would recommend for you, if you hadn’t mentioned a size. So I think that would work well for you.
I think that the width on the 158W would be ideal for you too.
Thanks Nate appreciate the help. Based on this I’ll go with the sight 158w. I can get it for a better price and seems both are boards I can progress on so doesn’t seem I’ll miss out by not going for the more advance Craft board. Cheers, martyn
You’re very welcome Martyn. Hope you enjoy your new board and the rest of your season!
So awesome!! This is by far the most thought out and detailed buffet of Information I have found yet. Thank you for the hard work and effort you have put in!
I’m a 5’2″ woman, weighing 150lbs. I first started out on a 154 with my experience being mostly groomed or light powder.
Then I took 10 years off, lost all my gear, and wondered if I was ever going to pick it back up. Hooray!!! I got a job at a small resort in my hometown and I’m loving the freedom again. 🙂
I now ride anything from a 147 to a 159! Huge range I know…but I have access to the rental dept. I still love the downhill groomed, but powder and tree trail hopping have become a few of the new things I enjoy. If I was to choose a size range for myself that wasn’t so broad, it would be 149-152, flexible but not flimsey, and slim line boots that are easily adjustable. I also recently invested in some bindings that go around my toes versus over the tops of them, and I love the control I feel now!! I highly recommend waxing and keeping the edges sharp as well!
I know most if this stuff is probably not new to most, but these things would have helped me out a lot ten years ago. I kind of had to stumble my way through learning the little things. I always try to remind myself that my feet and my body lean control my board. And if I can’t kick out my back foot to initiate a turn, I’m not on the size I need to be!
Anyways, thanks for the wonderful post, thanks for listening to me jabber, and enjoy!!!
Anyways,
Hi Heather
Thanks for the message. I enjoyed the jabber!
I also prefer the wrap around the toe bindings – most bindings are like that now – or have the option to wrap around the front of the toes or go over the top.
I also couldn’t agree more with waxing (see my waxing experiment here) and keeping the edges sharp (unless you want to detune for the park).
Hi Nate,
I am 6ft @ 75kg and I have had my eye on a Bataleon Fun Kink for a while, unfortunately for me it has become impossible to get it in a 157 and was wondering what your opinion on the 154 would be for someone my build? Do you think 154 would be too small? I currently ride a DVD Maet 158 which is great but I want something a bit softer for playing about on.
Thanks
Hi James
I think the 154cm could be a fun size for you – especially considering you already have the 158cm. It would give you a really playful option for those days you want it – and give you something different in terms of size.
I’m 6ft and 83kg-ish and I quite like something around a 155cm to 156cm for playing around on in the park and just for riding casual on the groomers. So I think for you a 154cm would be good for that. I actually rode a 154cm YES Jackpot (would be a bit stiffer than the Bataleon Fun Kink but in the same size) and I actually had heaps of fun on it. I usually make the cut off at 155cm but I actually really enjoyed that. And since you are carrying less weight than me, I think your 155-156cm would be 154to155cm – so I think that could work for you.
I wouldn’t get a 154cm as your only board – but assuming you’re going to keep the Maet, then I think complimenting that with a smaller size – especially if your purpose is for something more playful – isn’t a bad idea at all.
The only thing would be whether it’s going to be too narrow for you – what’s your boot size? If you have US10.0 or less, it should be wide enough for you. If you have US10.5 or up, then it might be pushing it unless you have low profile boots.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for all of that, but I made a mistake, I am actually 85kg not 75kg, with that in mind would you still thing the 154 fun kink will we okay? If not I will probably go on what you said for your weight.
As for boot size I am a UK10 so I will do my research to see how much different the fun kink is in comparison to my DWD Maet.
Thanks,
James
Hi James
In terms of width I think you’ll be fine with the 154cm. In terms of length, I would be less sure now than when we were looking at 75kg but it’s still a possibility. Like I said I really enjoyed the 154 YES Jackpot I rode recently. That was a little bit stiffer than the Fun Kink will be (as far as I can tell, though I haven’t actually ridden the Fun Kink) but has a very similar effective edge.
I would definitely say the 157 if it was going to be your only board but coupled with the Maet, the 154 might be something that’s more different. The 157 Fun Kink will still be a different board to your Maet though.
If found a Fun Kink 157cm (see link below) if that size is still on your radar.
>>Bataleon Fun Kink 157 at evo
That’s a great article – and a load of info on the questions, too. But still I have a question. I’m an older guy who has just started this winter. I am a fat git at 210lbs, and 5’8″ – 5’9″. Slopes around here are from steep to closer to vertical. I’d prefer slower ones, but what can you do.
There are a few good condition 2nd hand boards selled locally, another one is older, but has mainly gathered dust. It is a 154cm K2 Temptation (’07) with Indy bindings. Another one is newer, Stepchilds Expat (’07) with Ride EX bindings (’13). Good condition overall, nothing to separate them. Same price. But Stepchild is 162cm. It’s much closer to my weight rating but might it be even too long? Another consideration is my knees, I have suffered a lot with some rental gear since I haven’t been able to adjust them well enough. Canted bindings would help a lot, I guess.
As the season is almost over, I’m not in a hurry. I just know that both have been quality items, and both are in pretty good condition. At the same price here are cheap stuff like Crazy Creeks etc that are newer, and also newer quality brands that have been ridden hard.
Hi justme
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the 162cm stepchild is going to be a bit too long for you, especially give that you have just started snowboarding. On the other hand, the 154cm is probably a little too short – but I would go for the 154cm over the 162cm – the 162cm will be a better rating for your weight but as a beginner I wouldn’t go that long. I think something between 155cm and 158cm would be the best range to look at for you.
The other thing with the Stepchild Expat is that it’s a traditional Camber board, it’s directional and it’s quite stiff. All these things aren’t great for a new snowboarder. I think you would find this board quite difficult to ride. The K2 Temptation, from the info I could find from 2007, isn’t as stiff or as aggressive as the Expat – so I would say that it’s more suitable – but again around that time Hybrid Camber profiles were just making their way into existence, so there’s a good chance that it also has a traditional camber profile (I couldn’t find info on its camber profile) – which isn’t ideal for a new snowboarder.
In terms of your knees, bindings with canted footbeds is definitely a good way to go. Something with good shock absorption is a good idea too.
The other thing, once you do get your set up is to experiment with your binding angles. Find what causes the least pain for your knees. I have heard from different people say how certain binding angles cause their knees, or one of their knee’s pain and different angles alleviates that pain altogether or at least reduces it.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
This is by far the best information I have found on sizing! I wish I had seen this when I started as I still do not know much on the subject. I am 5’3”, 125 lbs, Intermediate to Advanced Rider on the East (ice) coast. I started on a 151 and my previous board was a 151 Salomon Ivy (very stiff aggressive board). My boyfriend bought me a 154 Never Summer Raven. We have been wondering if this is too big. I mostly like to bomb down as fast as I can but have recently been attempting the bigger bumps and trees. What are your thoughts?
Hi Lori
I probably would have recommended either the 146cm or the 149cm for your height/weight. The fact that you like to bomb fast means that the extra length will help you with stability at speed – and because you are used to a 151cm, then I probably would have said the 149cm or potentially the 151cm if you wanted to keep at a similar length.
I think that the 154cm is a bit long. But in saying that some people have preferences outside of what most people like, and what would normally be recommended.
Otherwise the Raven will probably be something that you’ll like – I just think it will be on the long side for you.
The other thing is that if you’re riding in trees, it can be nice to have something a little bit shorter (personally I prefer a shorter board in trees). You’ve got to weigh that up with stability at speed and float in powder (which will both be better in the longer versions). So the 146cm might be the best choice in trees but the 149cm or 151cm might be a better all round balance.
Have you had a chance to ride it yet?
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate… exactly what we thought. Yes I have been on it for a while now (so no giving it back!) and I do love it for simple trail riding- super fast and responsive. The problem is getting around the bigger bumps (handles beautifully with nice pop on small to medium bumps) and of course learning tree riding. It wants to fly and negotiating space and tight turns is definitely an issue. It is a lot of board to handle in those areas. You have confirmed that we didn’t make the right decision! 🙂 I guess I will have to have two boards. Any recommendation for a good tree board?
Hi Lori
In the long run, not a bad thing to have two boards – you just probably weren’t thinking you’d get them so close together!
In terms of a good tree board I think something that is fast from edge to edge, you want a nimble board in the trees and you also want it to be decent in powder – since the best time to go into trees is on powder days! And also sounds like you want something with decent pop and a stable landing platform – and also because you are on the ice coast – something with good edge hold in harder conditions.
And in terms of size, I think you can size down quite a bit, since this will be a second board and you don’t have to find a balance of a middle ground in terms of sizing. So I think something around that 145cm to 146cm mark would be a good range to look at – and that will really help with being nimble through the trees too. It can be the playful sidekick to your more aggressive 154 Raven.
To also contrast with what you have already a slightly softer flex (which will also help with it being a more playful companion) than your current board would go well I think. I have listed the flex of the boards in brackets below.
With all that in mind, I think that the following would be good choices.
~ YES Emoticon 146cm (medium-soft flex)
~ Never Summer Proto Type Two 145cm (medium flex)
GNU B-Pro 146cm (medium flex)
GNU Velvet Gnuru 147cm (medium flex)
Roxy Torah Bright 146cm (medium flex)
These are all all-mountain freestyle type boards but I think this would be a good contrast to your freeride board.
My vote would be either YES Emoticon or NS Proto Type Two but the others are also good options.
Hope this gives you some options to go with.
My vote would be with either the YES Emoticon or the Proto Type Two
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for your helpful responses on this thread! Hoping you can help here. I’m a 5’2, 138 lb, intermediate to advanced rider on the East Coast. I mostly ride all-mountain, hard packed groomers, hardly ever in the park. We have gone out west a few times over the last few years, and are going to try to start getting out to Colorado or Utah at least once a year though. I’ve been riding for ten years now, and am looking to upgrade from my first snowboard, a 2007 Ride Solace, 146cm.
I’m really interested in the Burton Feelgood, but it only comes in 144 and 149, and I’m not sure which one to get. I also got K2 Hue bindings a few years ago, but would probably want to switch to the Burton channel system and get EST bindings, and possibly new boots. I wear a street size 7, and I have size 7 Burton Emerald boots from 2010 that are a little soft and never feel tight enough. Any thoughts would be much appreciated, especially on snowboard sizing!
Hi Giovanna
Thanks for your message.
I think in general something around that 147cm mark would be a good size for you, give or take. For the Feelgood I would say the 149cm but you could go for either. If you want more stability at speed, better float in powder and better for carving, then the 149cm – but if you want something a bit more playful, more nimble and easier to butter, spin etc, then the 144cm.
Also, I’m assuming that this is the Feelgood and not the Feelgood Flying V you’re talking about? The Feelgood would be the same camber profile as your solice so you would be used to that (traditional camber). Assuming that the Feelgood (non-flying V) is what you mean, some other options for similar type boards and appropriate sizes would be:
~ YES Hel Yes 146cm (this has great edge hold in icy conditions which might be good for the East Coast but also has good float in powder when you get or when you’re travelling west)
~ Rome Scandal 146cm
If you meant the Feelgood Flying V check out the link below for more similar options.
>>My Top 6 Women’s All Mountain Snowboards
In terms of bindings to match, I think a good step up would be the Burton Escapades if you were wanting to go EST to go with the Feelgood. These would be a great match, IMO. If you wanted to go a little stiffer/more responsive then the Burton Lexa would be another good option.
If you find the Emerald’s to be too soft, then some stiffer flexing options are:
~ Burton Supreme
~ K2 Contour
~ Ride Cadence
~ 32 TM-Two
And if you’re having trouble getting your boots tight enough, then going with something with a Boa lacing system is probably your best bet – so the K2 Contour and the Ride Cadence are your best choices there.
Also check out the following for more stiffer flexing options – I think there’s the DC Mora in there too that uses a Boa system.
>>Top Women’s Freeride Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
So sad to say that the flow board is out of stock. In fact all of the flow boards on Amazon are gone. So I’m pretty much at square one and have no idea what to do.
Can I buy a men’s board? I seem to like their designs more than the super girly ones lol.
Hi Megan
Definitely not a no go on men’s boards – but just a few things to keep in mind.
1. That you go with something that’s not too stiff. By the sounds of it you want something that you can take control – there are advantages to stiffer boards but they are more difficult to control. Men’s boards tend to be, on average, stiffer than women’s boards – but there are plenty of medium-soft flexing options in men’s boards – but just so that you keep that in mind.
2. Often the biggest barrier for a woman buying a men’s board is the width. If the board is too wide for your feet, then it will be more difficult to turn because you won’t be able to get the same leverage onto the edges of the snowboard.
3. And of course you want to keep other things in mind about the board. I think when we last talked you were saying you were a beginner or intermediate rider? In which case there are a few things you want to watch out for, like camber profile, side-cut etc.
But if you choose well then there’s no reason not to go for a men’s board.
You might be able to find some good options here at the link below, keeping in mind from previous comments, that you probably want something that’s 147cm to 149cm long and that is around 242mm to 248mm for the waist width.
>>My Top 5 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps, and let me know if you want some other options.
I’m looking at this board what do you think?
Arbor Ethos Rocker Snowboard
Item #106979 on REI website
Hi Megan
I think this board would be fine for you. I think the 147cm would be the best size.
My only concern would be the width. From out last comments you said you were a size 9 shoe but didn’t have snowboard boots yet? Assuming that you fit into an 8.5 snowboard boot, that would put you at about a 242mm waist width minimum (not precise but roughly). So the 236mm waist of the 147cm board might be pushing it for being too narrow. You might get away with it, but it’s certainly pushing it – depending on the boot size you get into. The 150cm would probably also be an appropriate size for you but isn’t much wider, so would be the same issue.
If you have since bought snowboard boots, and can let me know the size of those boots, I can give you a more accurate recommendation but otherwise, I think this would be risky in terms of the width.
Hi Nate!
So this board isn’t a good fit? Or I should wait till I get boots before I purchase it?
Hi Megan
You would probably be ok on it, if you’re not really getting up on the edges of your snowboard and doing low carves. But I don’t like to recommend people to go on boards that are too narrow for risk of toe and/or heel drag. But definitely not a bad idea to purchase boots first – that way you have a better idea of the minimum waist width you should go for. If you want to get boots that are low profile (shorter outersole) that would give you more range in terms of how narrow you could go with your board.
Hi Nate,
I really appreciate what you have been doing by providing so much detailed and informative suggestions here.
I am a female rider: height: 5’10” , weight ranging from 135-150lb ：P foot size 9
I started with a “wrong length” board I guess: it is a Burton TWC pro 158cm Wide (a stiff board mainly for experts and advanced-levels) . It was a gift from my friend who believed the height determines the length (which apparently wrong now) . I do not have good balance skills since I was a kid and I am tall. Plus, with this board, it took me forever to get through the stages from the beginner to the intermediate . It really frustrated me at first and after two seasons, I started to get to used to this long and wide board..
I rented a shorter and slimmer board once when the renter believed that 158cm was too long for me ( I don’t remember the exact length though). However it took me a while to get used to because it was much lighter, smaller, slimmer and faster. I felt the smaller board was not as stable as my own board .
Could you give me any advice on choosing my ideal board? length width, flex etc ..I am looking for something that can basically fits to all levels since I am progressing.
My second question is , in your opinion, which is more suitable for me ? Capita ‘s jess kimura pro 2017 150cm and Bird of a Feather 154cm ? Jess Kimura Pro is so cute while the longest is only 150cm… Will it too short for me?
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Hi Elly
Yeah, first of all I agree that the board is too long and wide and would have been a difficult one to learn on – partly because of the size and partly because of the camber profile (traditional camber) and the stiffness of the board. Definitely more of an advanced and up board. But you do get used to a certain board and you will be used to the stability that something that long and wide offers. Certainly extra length and width adds to stability – but it can also take away from the “nimble-ness” of the board. It will take getting used to a shorter narrower board but once you do, I think you’ll prefer it.
In terms of stability there are other things outside of length and width that affect it. The main one being the camber profile of the board. Since you have an all camber board, that will also feel more stable than something with a lot of rocker in it – it can also be more “catchy”. If the board that you rented had a lot of rocker in it – that would have also added to the less stable feel.
I think since it sounds like you are at an intermediate level and based on what you are used to (we don’t want to change things too dramatically) that your best bet would be the following:
Length: 151cm to 154cm – maybe going closer to the higher end of this, given that you are used to a 158W. Also, this does depend on the type of board – some boards feel longer than their size and some shorter than their size, when actually riding on snow.
Width: 244mm to 250mm waist width (based on a US Womens size 9.0 snowboard boot – assuming that’s what you meant by “P foot size 9”)
Flex: Medium or medium-soft is good for an intermediate depending on how you like to ride. But given that you are used to a stiffer board and that sizing down will also make the board feel softer, I think going medium flex is the best choice for you.
Camber Profile: I think a Hybrid Camber profile would be the best choice for you. This has camber in the middle of the board and rocker at the tip and tail. Your current board has camber throughout so this is a similar profile to what you already have but the rocker sections towards tip and tail will make the board less catchy and more forgiving. Of course there are different varieties of Hybrid Camber – but I think this would be the best for you.
In terms of the Capita boards you have mentioned. Both of these boards are quite aggressive boards. Ordinarily I wouldn’t necessarily recommend them to an intermediate rider – but since you are used to the TWC pro, they probably won’t feel that aggressive to you – especially in the shorter sizes. And they are mid flex, hybrid camber (though more camber than the average hybrid camber), and the sizes fit roughly what we’re looking at.
The width on the Birds of a Feather 154cm will be fine for you – and that length would be fine too. Borderline too long – and the only reason I say that is that it has a relatively large effective edge, compared to the overall length of the board – so will feel longer than the average 154cm.
The Jess Kimura Pro at 150cm is probably actually ok. Like the Birds of Feather, it has a relatively long effective edge compared to the average for a 150cm board – so will feel a little bit longer. My only concern would be the width. It has a 241mm waist which would be just under what we wanted. It might still be ok – but if you are really getting up on your edges for low carves, or plan on it, then it could be pushing in terms of being too narrow. Otherwise the mid-flex and hybrid camber fit well.
These two boards are what I consider all-mountain-freestyle boards. All-mountain freestyle boards and all-mountain boards are the most versatile, which it sounds like what you’re looking for – something that’s versatile that can take you through all levels and suit any style.
If you want to look at more options in these categories, check out the links below.
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboards
Hope this all makes sense. Let me know if you need clarification on anything or have any other questions.
Thank you so much for the detailed reply Nate! I have been waiting for it ~~~ yup you are right my foot size is US 9(women) and after scrupulously examining all the snowboa