Below I will list the top 7 specifications for selecting the best snowboard for a beginner and the reasons why.
Having the right snowboard for your ability level, especially as a beginner will have a significant impact on the speed of your progression.
The Top 7 Things to Look Out For In a Beginner Board
The following 7 things should be all you are concerned about as a beginner to aid your progression. Other factors at this stage are unimportant.
Note: that there are many boards that are good for beginners that may also be good as all mountain boards, freestyle boards or other styles, for more experienced riders. That does not make them any less relevant as beginner boards if they have the following factors.
At the end of the post I have provided links to my top men's and women's beginner boards to make your research easier. Check out the "My Top Recommendations" section below.
THING #1: CAMBER PROFILE
The illustration above is an (very rough and exaggerated!) image of what a "Hybrid Camber" profile would look like, looking side on to the snowboard
For me, the Camber Profile, plus Thing #2 - Flex, and Thing #3 - size are the most important factors for beginners.
These things are really important because they affect three very important factors for beginners, which are:
- A feeling of stability underfoot;
- Ease of turn initiation: and
- A board that isn't easy to catch an edge on
When you are starting out you want to feel stable to aid balance. You also want the most difficult thing for beginners (linking turns) to be made easier by the specs of the board - and you don't want the board to be catchy. The camber profile has a profound effect on two of these things - stability and ease of catching an edge (and can also aid in easier turn initiation).
The best camber profiles for both stability and a more catch-free ride, in my opinion, are Flat to Rocker and Hybrid Camber (as long as there isn't too much camber in there). Closely followed by Hybrid Rocker.
>>More on Camber Profiles here
Stability
A Hybrid Camber Profile has camber underfoot which will feel very stable and a Flat to Rocker profile has a flat section underfoot which will also feel very stable.
So why are completely flat profiles or traditional camber profiles not an option? Simple, turning ability - and being less catchy.
Turn Initiation
As a beginner you want turning to be as easy as possible to build confidence. If you are forever catching an edge your confidence will take a long time to build up and your progression will be slow.
A traditional camber profile has camber not only underfoot but also towards the tip and tail. This camber towards the tip and tail will make it easier to catch an edge - not good for a beginner. Similarly, a completely flat board will have flat towards tip and tail - also great for catching an edge!
The Hybrid Camber profile has rocker sections towards the tip and tail to go with the Camber underfoot. This allows for a more catch-free ride.
If there is only a token amount of rocker and lots of camber, it's not going to be ideal for the beginner - not all hybrid cambers are the same, so this should be taken into account. Something that's mostly camber, or has aggressive camber is not going to be great for beginners - in this case it will feel more like traditional camber.
The Flat to Rocker profile, as the name suggests also has rocker towards the tip and tail, like the Hyrbid camber profile.
The Hybrid Rocker profile is hit and miss for beginners. Because it has camber sections it has some decent stability - but it does have rocker beneath the feet which can sometimes, depending on the length and the degree of rocker, give a looser feel - but not to the same degree of looseness as a continuous rocker profile. That rocker between the feet does help with easy turn initiations though - it can just make things a bit loose - especially when coming off the lift.
But like Hybrid camber profiles, it also depends on the degree and extent of the camber sections. If there is really prominent camber or the rocker section between the feet is really small, then it can feel closer to traditional camber, and become catchy and too aggressive.
Which Camber Profiles to Avoid
In my opinion, the Traditional Camber and Completely Flat profiles should be completely avoided.
The Continuous Rocker has been often recommended to beginners (but that was before the hybrid profiles really emerged). This profile has rocker underfoot which will feel “loose” - not ideal for beginners - and there are no camber or flat sections to add stability. It feels catch-free for sure, and makes turn initiation easy, but will likely feel too loose to be good for beginners, especially when coming off the lifts. This is a better option than traditional camber and flat for beginners though - at least linking turns will be easy.
THING #2: FLEX
Equally as important as the Camber Profile is the flex of the board. This is a bit easier to understand.
The best flex for a beginner is soft or medium-to-soft (1,2,3 or 4 out of 10).
The reason for this is that a flex that is on the softer side is easier to maneuver and manipulate, particularly at slower speeds. If the board is stiff it will be tough to initiate turns on and you are going to have a hard time controlling it - it will take you for a ride instead of you riding it!
Stiff flex may give you more stability at high speeds on steep slopes - but these are not things that you will be involved in early on.
A stiffer snowboard is also physically more difficult to turn. This means it takes a lot more energy and will wear your muscles out quicker. But more importantly for beginners, if you have to put in a lot of effort to turn the board it will be much more difficult to turn with good technique. You are likely to use your back leg as a rudder and to twist your upper body to help initiate the turn - 2 things that are not good habits to get into and will lead to poor technique.
I usually recommend a medium-soft flex (3/10 or 4/10) as opposed to soft flex (1 or 2 out of 10), if you ride in hard/icy conditions a lot, because if the flex is too soft then it will compromise too much on edge-hold.
Medium-soft flex also gives a good balance between being easy to maneuver and progress with, and allowing you to grow into the board a wee bit as you tackle steeper slopes and ride at greater speeds. This isn't completely necessary, if you are willing to invest in the fastest progressing board to begin with and are willing to upgrade from that fairly quickly as you progress.
>>Learn more about snowboard flex ratings here
THING #3: SIZE
Getting an unsuitable sized snowboard can greatly affect it's suitability as a beginner board - even if you get the flex and camber profile right - it won't be ideal for learning and progressing on, if it's in the wrong size.
Go too long - and the board becomes harder to control and harder to turn - and this is amplified the longer you go - until you're riding a runaway train!
But go too short and you will be loosing out on stability - the shorter you go, the more the board will feel twitchy and unstable. So getting a good size for your specs is really important.
To find a good length and width for your specs, check out the following:
As a beginner, you should be sizing down a little (3-5cm) from a "standard all-mountain" length. Learn how to find your standard length in the length sizing link above.
THING #4: MANUFACTURER's LABEL
Typically manufacturers will give an indication of what the particular board is made for. This, in my opinion, isn’t as big a consideration as Camber Profile and Flex but certainly what the manufacturers think there board would be good for shouldn’t be ignored.
For this one simply try to find out (on reviews or on the manufacturers website) what the board is considered to be.
Boards will usually have a range of ability levels on them. Usually it will be one of the following:
- Beginner
- Beginner - Intermediate
- Beginner - Advanced
- Beginner - Expert
- Intermediate to Advanced
- Intermediate to Expert; or
- Advanced to Expert
This brings me to my next point…..
THING #5: Avoid the Temptation to get a Board to “Grow Into”
Whilst it might be tempting to get a board that you can “grow into” like an “intermediate to expert” or to discard all boards except ones that go up to advanced or expert, this is not the wisest move.
If the board is above your ability level, you will stunt your progression. It is far better to later sell your beginner board and buy a more advanced board once you progress than trying to learn on a board that is not suited to beginners.
I would go with a beginner, beginner to intermediate, or beginner to advanced -i.e. as long as it at least has beginner in it (and has the Camber Profile and Flex Rating as mentioned above).
But trust me, you will be in the beginner and intermediate phases (which cover a wider range of things that you might think - check out this post on ability levels) for at least a few seasons, especially if you only spend a few days a year on the mountain.
For this reason you won’t need to upgrade too soon. So if you are tempted to get a more advanced board because you don’t want to have to buy a new one too soon, don’t worry about it because a beginner to intermediate board will serve you well for a good while and will lead to much faster progression. Go for something that's beginner to intermediate or beginner to advanced, if you want something that will stay with you a little longer.
If you pick up snowboarding really quickly, or do a large number of days in your first season, and need to upgrade sooner, that is not a problem either. The newer the board is when you sell it, the more you will get for it - so either way you will get your money’s worth……..which leads me to the 5th thing.
THING #6: A REASONABLE PRICE
As a beginner you may not be entirely certain how long your snowboarding “career” will last and you may not want to spend a fortune on a board if you don’t think it will get that much use.
Understandable.
Fortunately beginner boards are generally on the cheaper side. Probably mostly because the manufacturers know that beginners are less willing to invest larger sums of money - and because it seems to be cheaper to produce softer flexing boards, and boards with extruded bases.
From my experience you should be able to pick up a good quality board in the $300 to $400 (USD) price range brand new. Or cheaper second hand of course (keeping in mind that older board’s will have a lower resale value). Buying past season boards is a great way to get a brand new board for a cheaper price.
THING #7: VERSATILITY
I have only recently included versatility in my beginner ratings. And the reason I have done this is because I was getting a lot of people who wanted a board that would be able to do a bit of everything (but still be good for a beginner) so that they could get a board that could take them in any direction their snowboarding took them - whether that be freestyle, casual, freeriding etc.
So, now my top beginner snowboard picks (see links below) take this into account.
THING #8: STANCE AND SHAPE
In my opinion, camber, flex and size are the most important things. If you go those 3 things right, then you will have a board that is suitable for you, as a beginner. The rest of these things, including stance and shape, aren't must haves.
The best stance for a beginner is a centered stance. This is because a centered stance is easier to get your balance on because you are centered on the board. It also makes learning switch easier.
The best shape for a beginner snowboard is a true twin shape. A true twin shape is perfectly symmetrical - like having a centered stance this makes it easier to find and keep your balance. This is more so the case if you are looking to start learning tricks, and want to learn how to ride switch from early on.
However, these two things aren't that important. They are the ideal but can be compromised on. Especially if you are looking for a board that you want to keep for years to come. Then something with a directional twin shape and a little bit of a setback stance might be a better bet, to give you more versatility (see #8).
THING #9: BASE TYPE
There are broadly two types of bases for snowboards - extruded and sintered bases. Both have their pluses and minuses.
When it comes to a beginner board an extruded bases is preferred. This is for a few reasons.
- An extruded base is slower - a fast accelerating base is not the best idea for a beginner!
- An extruded base is easier to maintain - you don't need to wax extruded bases very often if at all
- An extruded base costs less to manufacture - this lowers the overall cost of the board
To Sum Up
Remember these 9 things and you can’t go wrong with picking a snowboard that will be great for a beginner and assist in speedy progression.
More specifically remember the first 3 things:
- Camber Profile
- Flex
- Size
And you should have a suitable snowboard to help you learn and progress with confidence.
At a quick glance check out the table below.
THING #1: CAMBER PROFILE | Hybrid Camber, Flat-to-rocker, Hybrid Rocker |
THING #2: FLEX | Soft or Medium-Soft |
THING #3: SIZE | 3-5cm shorter than "Standard Length" |
THING #4: Manufacturer's Label | Beginner, Beginner to Intermediate or Beginner to Advanced |
THING #5: Avoid a "Grow Into" Board | It will slow your progression and be frustrating with a board above your ability |
THING #6: Reasonable Price | This is different for different people, but most beginners don't want to spend too much |
THING #7: Versatility | A versatile board can help you progress into any style |
THING #8: Shape and Stance | Centered stance and true twin shape, particularly if you want to develop freestyle skills early on |
THING #9: Base Type | Extruded base preferably - but not essential |
Recent First Hand Experience
As an illustration of using a specific beginner board with these 7 things, I hired a board for my girlfriend for our visit to Whistler a few years back. Instead of just going with the standard hire board I found a shop that hired specific boards and I specifically chose a board (the Rossignol Myth in this case) that had all the characteristics that are pointed out above.
The Rossi Myth has;
- a Hybrid Camber profile;
- medium-soft flex (3 out of 10);
- is considered stable with an easy turn initiation;
- has a centered stance;
- has a true twin shape;
- has an extruded base;
- is labelled a beginner-to-intermediate board;
- it only costs around $299 (USD)
I have been trying to convince my girlfriend that buying a board is much better than hiring for many reasons (see my post on why you should buy rather than hire) and I finally got through to her after that weekend! She didn't buy that board, but another with great specs for a beginner/intermediate rider, and loves it.
She not only really enjoyed riding the board, she said she felt far more confident turning, riding steeper slopes and riding at higher speeds. This was great not only for her but for me also - not having to wait nearly as long for her to catch up was much better for my patience :-).
I was pleasantly surprised with how much quicker and more confident she was coming down the slopes.
My Top Recommendations
If you want all the research done for you or somewhere to start, then check out my top picks for beginner snowboards for both men and women at the links below.
Or if you're looking to go that little step up, without reaching too far, check out the following:
Any Comments or Questions
If there's anything you think I’ve left out that is important for a beginner snowboard, please let me know in the comments below.
Similarly if you have any further questions please leave it in the comments.
Thanks for reading and I hope this has helped in your beginner snowboard selection decision.
Great article!
I want to thank Nate not only for the great posts in this website but also for all the support he provides to the community. I was able to chose my board, binding and boots all based on the reviews/articles and support from Nate with all the questions I asked.
I really like the setup I bought and fits me well (I am a real beginner).
Once I got my equipment I then moved to the other articles about stance, angles, high back adjustment, boot centralisation, etc. Once again the articles and Nate’s support were essential and always spot on!
I have to say: there are a lot of “support” and “channels” out there but almost none actually provide real answer and information if you ask them. Specially for beginners, it’s difficult to understand 100% of what the articles are saying, so I found out that this website actually provides the support needed.
Thanks a lot for all you do for the snowboarding community.
Hi Thiago
Thanks for your message. I really appreciate it and glad we were able to help you get setup. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
Thank you very much for all the info!
I am a beginner snowboarder here in the UK I have practised in Snow Centres indoor and reached level 4 although I still struggle with turns and perhaps the board is not for me (they use Head snowboards) so I was thinking to make a purchase that will best suits my stats. I am 176cm tall, I weigh 84kg and I’m US 9 in shoe size. Can you please recommend a very good board and bindings for me? I really appreciate your help. Thanks a lot!!!
Hi Andrea
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of sizing, I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 159, but as a level 4 beginner, I would size down a bit from that. Something around 156/157 would be a good bet, IMO.
You could either go with a beginner board, like from this list, or check out this list which is a good bet for high-end beginners/low intermediate riders.
Hi, I’m 5’9 170lb I want a suggestion for an all mountain and a separate suggestion for a park board, intermediate please.
Hi Donavin
Thanks for your message. I would start by checking out the following:
For the All-Mountain Board
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
For the Park board
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hello, great overview of all the info you need to pick a board!
I made the mistake of buying a Burton Custom X Wide board for my first time riding..
It went pretty well, but it was very hard to turn with it.
Now i went and ordered “Capita DOA Wide 159”
I am 187cm / 88kg / Boot size 45
Being the Impulsive person that i am, i found your website after the purchase.
Do you think this board is right for me?
PS: i am a quick learner, after 2 days at the resort i managed to ride quite well with the burton costume x. but i did do what you explained “leaning the back foot to brake” and twisting my body.
so i am now selling this board. i even landed my first 180 at a small jump!
Hi Marcus
Thanks for your message.
Yeah the problem is, particularly if you’re a fast learner and quite coordinated, that you can probably “manage” any board, but it can lead to poor technique.
The DOA is less aggressive than the Custom X and is a better option, IMO, but it’s still not ideal to learn on, IMO. Size-wise I think it’s good and given you’re ability to learn quickly, it should be OK. Not ideal, but doable, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Great site, I’ve been spending hours reading and learning, since I found this site.
I’m 5’8, 200lbs with a foot size 25cm. I have a background of 20 years from power-/weightlifting, so for a rider i should be bit stronger.
As for snowboarding I seem to be somewhere beginner level 3. Last time I learned linking turns, but toe edge turning isn’t quite confident yet. For riding style I’m interested in freeride and carving more than park riding.
The rental boards that I’ve used were nitro boards. Sized 154 and 152 if I remember correctly. The shorter one felt easier to ride. As for model only thing I can remember, it had rail killer edges.
Looking all the manufacturer size charts the K2 standard has 200+ lbs for that 152 length. And that size felt good for the rental board. For the Salomon sight the length goes up 156 for 200lbs max. Those were the two boards that seem to be in my weight range, am I correct? And based on your size chart, 156 should be good choice too (or even better than 152)? All though it would be the largest board I’ve ever used. Could you help me choose the right board and size?
Thanks!
Hi Seppo
Thanks for your message.
I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 159. As a beginner level 3, I think something in the range 2-4cm less, so a range from 155-157 would be a good bet. However, with your foot size most boards in that size range will be a bit too wide. Given your weight and your strength, you can probably still get away with it. But ideally, particularly as beginner board, you’ll want to size down a little from that range, to compensate for the boards being too wide.
How much you want to size down will depend on the particular board and how wide it is.
For the K2 Standard, I think you would be good with the 152. The 155 would be doable as well. But it will be wide for your feet – and whilst it is sized down a little, the 152 might work better. Note that the 155 would likely be a better size for you in the long run but I would be leaning shorter and then go a bit longer when you eventually upgrade your board.
For the Sight, again, the 156 would be a better size when you’re more advanced, IMO, but for now the 153 is probably the better bet. The weight recommendation has you above that, but I see those more as guidelines than hard and fast. I think ideally for right now, if you were to go Sight, the 153 would be the better bet.
Hope this helps with your decision
Seems like 152/153 length would be the best option to start with.
Yes, that helped with my decision and also for what size to look in the future as well.
Thank you for your time!
You’re very welcome Seppo. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
I know you said you didn’t know as much about kids boards but my daughter just started boarding last year and would like her own board this year!! She is 13, almost 5’4” and 105lbs!!! Should I be looking at youth boards or womens boards!! And based on that information what size would you suggest???
Thanks so Much!!!
Hi Heather
Thanks for your message. Awesome to hear your daughter’s snowboarding – and looking to get her own gear – it’s a game changer.
For your daughter, she’s kind of on the border – she could go either way. I would say 141 would be her “standard” length, but as a beginner and being younger and likely not as physically strong, I would go a bit smaller than that. A range between 136 and 139 would be a good bet, IMO. There are women’s boards in that size range, so she could go women’s. If you could also let me know her snowboard boot size (or shoe size, if you’re not sure of boot size) – as that will be factor in the length as well as the width to look at.
Also for some good beginner options check out this list.
Hope this helps
Thank you very much for taking the time to compile and present this information. This is very helpful for those of us just starting and trying to figure out what’s what. It is very much appreciated.
I am an absolute beginner at snowboarding, but after renting this season, I’m ready for my own gear. I’m about 5’5 and my weight is currently 150 lbs, but I am working on getting back down to around 140 or even 135 if I can. I’m interested in the current iteration of the Ride Agenda board, possibly in a 149 size. Would this be a good beginner board and/or one to grow into? Would you recommend Ride C-2 or C-4 bindings? And as for boots, I am at a loss, though I know it’s recommended to go and try on different pairs. I am typically a euro 43 but can be a 9.5 or 10 in us sizes depending on the maker. Again, thank you very much for the article and for your time.
Hi Fox
Thanks for your message.
The Agenda is a good beginner option, IMO and the 149 would be the best size for you as well, so I think you’re good there.
In terms of bindings, because of your weight and as a beginner, I think the C-2 would be the ideal for right now. The C-4 would be doable and something that would last longer through your progression, so something that you could keep for longer.
For boots, yeah there’s no substitute for trying on, but if you’re unable to, check out this on sizing for different brands. The other alternative is to order more than one pair online and return the one(s) that doesn’t fit as well – making sure that where you buy from has a good return policy. In terms of beginner boots check this list out to get started.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your amazing article ! Could you help me with the size for the Salomon Sight ? I’m 178cm/78Kg, boots 43. I’m a beginer, do you think a board between 156 and 158 is ok for me ?
Thank you for your help !
Hi Julien
Thanks for your message.
For the Sight for you, I would go with either the 155W or 156. I would put your “standard all-mountain” size at around 158, but that assumes a relatively advanced level. So sizing down makes sense. Typically with 10s (US equivalent of 43, typically – sorry my brain only works in US sizes 🙂 ), I wouldn’t recommend a wide board, but the Sight (22 model and earlier – it’s getting quite a few changes for the 23 model) is narrower than average and the wide versions aren’t that wide. I think you’d still get away with the 156 width-wise, but if you were concerned about it, the 155W isn’t super wide or anything and would work for 10s, IMO.
Hope this helps
Perfect thank you ! The board arrived yesterday (156cm), can’t wait to try it !
Hi Julien
Thanks for the update. Hope it treats you well. If you think of it at the time let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow. Happy riding!
Wow—thank you so much for your website. It is has been immensely helpful and I can’t believe all the amazing advice you hand out freely! So kind. I have been out of the snowboarding world for 8 years and just getting back in so I can spend some time with my son (he seems to live at our local hill in the winter!). I am a 130 lb, 5’6’” female and although not a true beginner, I don’t love to go fast. I just like to get out there in the fresh air. I just got the K2 First Lite (147) based on your review and what was available here in Canada. I also ordered Ride Boots (Sage Boa 8.5) and bindings (Cl-2 in M). But looking at my board, I feel like my boots might be too big (they haven’t arrived yet). Are my feet maybe too big for a woman’s board? I am half tempted to return the board and get a Mens board—but then I guess I will also have to exchange my boots and bindings? Any advice you have would be greatly appreciated!!
Hi Aynsley
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think you need to worry – with 8.5s the width on the First Lite 146 should be just fine. You want some boot overhang – it means that your feet are close to the edges, which makes it easier to initiate turns. Of course you don’t want so much overhang that you’d get boot drag, but it’s very unlikely that you will with 8.5s on that board. Unless you’re out there eurocarving and had bulky boots (which the sage aren’t) I don’t think you’ll have any boot drag issues with that setup.
And yeah, I definitely wouldn’t go for a men’s board with your boot size – your feet would end up too far inside the edges making it harder to initiate turns. If the First Lite was too narrow (which I don’t think it will be), there are slightly wider women’s boards that would be much better alternatives.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m looking to buy my first snowboard as a beginner. I’m looking at the Capita Space Metal Fantasy, and am debating between the 139 and 141 cm. My measurements are 5’2″ 110 lbs, and I usually wear a women’s size 6 in shoes (which seems to also be my boot size based on how rentals have fit). I think I’m leaning toward the 139 cm, but wanted to make sure that the waist width for this size (228) would be appropriate. Or would getting the 141 cm make more sense?
Hi Michelle
Thanks for your message.
I would go 139 for sure. The width should be just right and it’s also the better length for your specs, as a beginner, IMO. I think the 139 is just right.
Hope this helps
Hello and thank you for your great advices.
I have an oppurtinity for these products below.
Bataleon distortia 2014, union rosa 2014 bindings.
I can say that I am a beginner and for two times I had only a chance to use rental sets. I can ride, but I have a lot way to learn. Do you advice these two products as a set for a beginner and have no goal to be a park rider.
Hi Cykn
Thanks for your message.
I don’t have a lot of experience with Bataleon boards, but on paper the Distortia looks like it should suit a beginner well. The flex is good and whilst it has a traditional camber profile, my experience with Bataleon it’s not catchy because of the 3BT, so I think you should be good there. Just make sure the size is right for you – sizing makes a big difference. If you’d like a recommendation on size, I would be happy to provide one, would just need your height, weight and boot size. And the size of the Distortia you’re thinking of getting.
The Union Rosa are very good beginner bindings, IMO, even in the 2014 model, so you should be good there.
Hope this helps
Hi all,
I am looking to buy a snowboard as I’m about to spend 4-5months at the snow. Although I’ve been only once on a snowboard few years ago, so I’m a beginner.
At the moment I have those 2 boards to choose from and I need help as I cant make up my mind and it’s been hours.
-Rossignol Gala 2021
-LIGHT SNOWBOARD Twitch
Help me make the right decision pliiiiz ;-p
Hi Maia
Thanks for your message.
Light Snowboards isn’t brand I’m familiar with, but for the most part it looks beginner friendly. A completey flat profile, without any rocker tip or tail, can sometimes feel a little catchy though. I don’t know in the case of this particular board, but it can be the case. So I’d be leaning Gala. But sizing is also really important. So getting it in the right size matters too. I would be happy to give a sizing opinion, if you weren’t sure of sizing. I would just need your height, weight and boot size.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate and thank you for your reply.
From my researches I need a board that is 145-146cm but I don’t know much about the width. I’m 1m67 for 56kg and my boots are a size 37eu/7us/4.5uk.
🙂
Hi Nate and thank you for your response,
I already got back to you but I’m not sure it went through. I’m 1m67 (5.48ft) for 56kg. and my boots are a size 37eu/7us. I would love to know what you are thinking and which of the 2 boards above you think I should choose.
Thank you thank you thank you
Hi Maia
Thanks for the extra info.
Around 145/146 would be a good size for your specs, but I would be looking a little shorter as a beginner, for the fastest progression. 145/146 doable, since the boards are very beginner friendly – and since you’ll be spending a lot of time on snow in the next few months, by the sounds of it. But ideally, something around 142/143, IMO for the fastest progression – but you would get away with going a little longer (e.g. 145/146).
Hey Nate,
Greetings from Europe!
I can`t wait for a new season to start and meanwihle I`m trying to make a good set up. This will be my first set up. Till now I used only hired equipment.
My preparations also includes reading Snowboarding Profiles web page and taking as much knowledge as I can.
I`m somewhere between beginer level 4 and intermediate 5. At the moment I have only boots – Salomon F22. I`m searching for a all-mountain snowboard and for good bindings too. I`ve studied the sections for choosing the right size of the board but still have some questions:
– As I can see the boots I have are medium to stiff and probably not so good for my level as beginer but I feel comfortable with them. The size is EUR 46 1/2 /29.5 cm/. What is your advise to keep them and to make a set up based on them or to change the boots with other model?
– My height is 5.95 feet /181 cm/ and my weight is 145 pounds /65 kg/ and as I can see the right lenght is 154 cm but most of the boards with this lengh are too narrow for my size boots.
Could you guide me to some brands or models with more wide waist width.
– Should I look for soft bindings when my boots are stiff ones?
Cheers,
Ognyan
Hi Ognyan
Thanks for your message.
I think if you’re comfortable in the boots, you could stick with them. If there’s anything in the setup that can be stiffer than the rest it’s the boots, IMO. So, if they’re comfortable, I think you can get away with them – and finding boots that are comfortable and fit well, is the most important thing, IMO. At the same time, I wouldn’t go too soft in the board/binding setup. But medium in the board/binding should be fine.
In terms of bindings, I wouldn’t go too soft given the boots. But I still wouldn’t go as stiff as the boots. I would try to get bindings that match the board well. If the bindings are too soft for the board, then you can have trouble really giving the board enough power.
For the board, given your weight and ability level, I’d try not to go stiffer than a 5/10 flex – so bindings around that same flex too.
In terms of length, I wouldn’t go longer than 155. I think that’s the max you’d want to go – and yeah, you’ll definitely need to go wide with your boot size.
Some options that I think would work well:
– Capita Outerspace Living 155W
– GNU Money 154W
– GNU Riders Choice 155W
– Rossignol Resurgence 155W
For bindings, I would take a look at the following and go with something around that 5/10 flex.
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your reply!
I decided to look for used equipment at the moment, keeping in mind your article. As I can see till now, It is hard to find exact match – length 155W, medium stiff for the board and bindings, hybrid profile.
My leading parameters are according your advice above: camber, flex, size. I`m avoiding camber profile.
What do you think, is this interval OK to check: 153 cm to 157 cm, and which will be more acceptable shorter or longer than 155 cm?
Should I accept too soft 2-3 from 10 for the board and the bindings?
Regards,
Ognyan
Hi Ognyan
I would go max 155. Definitely good to go shorter than that though. I’d look in the range 152-155. But you’ll have more luck finding a wide board in the 154-155 range, than you will in the 152 to 153 range (though they do exist).
I wouldn’t go as soft as 2-3/10 for board and bindings. Something between 4/10 to 6/10 would be best.
Helpful giveaway for the beginners! I’ve been snowboarding for over one year so you can’t call me so called beginner but I’m still learning. Well, my eyes on an intermediate snowboard. I went throw the link you shared and found one within my budget. Thanks for sharing this!
You’re very welcome Colin. Glad you found it useful. Happy riding!
Hey Nate!
I wanted to get your opinion on this board:
>>Capita Space Metal Fantasy
In a size 143 cm
The following describes me:
– woman
– beginner (can link turns but am learning to carve)
– ride mostly east coast (often hard, icy conditions)
– my height is 5’7.5” and my weight is 130lbs
– long term goal is to ride park (rails and small jumps) and ride the whole mountain too
Hi Alessandra
Thanks for your message.
The Space Metal Fantasy is a great option as a beginner board – and one that is very freestyle focused, so something that will definitely help when you’re looking to hit the park. It would be something though, that I would use to progress on for a while but then keep as your dedicated park board and upgrade to a better all-mountain board to continue progress on the rest of the mountain.
Not something that’s a great carver or great at speed, so it’s something you’ll outgrow, in terms of riding the rest of the mountain, after a while. Will then be a great option to continue to progress in the park. So, if you were happy to upgrade down the line and have two boards, then I think it’s a good option.
But if you’re looking for just one board and want to hold onto for a longer time and something that’s a little more “do-it-all”, then I think there are better options. If that’s the case, I would check out the following (great options for high-end beginner, but that will last you longer in terms of progression):
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
And in there, you could look for an all-mountain-freestyle option, which I think would suit you well, if you’re looking to have a freestyle focus to your riding, but still want it to do well on the rest of the mountain. The all-mountain options would also be suitable.
Size-wise, as a beginner board and then as a dedicated park board, I think 143 would work for the Space Metal Fantasy. But as a more do-it-all length, still without going too long for a beginner, I think something 145, 146 would be a better size for you.
Hope this makes sense and helps with your decision
Nate,
Wow. Thank you so much for your response— That was really helpful and thorough. The linked article is also great. Now I’ve got some thinking to do!
I hope quarantine is treating you well and thanks again for your help!
You’re very welcome Alessandra. Thanks for using the site.
Hope your also doing well during the lockdown.
Hey Nate,
Thanks for all the insightful content so far. I feel like I’m close to making a decision on a board!
I’m a 5’7, 152 lb male that’s been snowboarding 6 times so far. In my most recent trip, I was able to link turns! However, I was spraying snow rather than engaging my edge, so I’m very interested in getting a board for me to progress consistently on.
I was using my friend’s 2011 K2 Dark Star and the edges weren’t engaging well, although it’s most likely my technique as well as the board being the issue.
From all your content I’ve been reading, I believe I should be going for
1. All-Mountain
2. Hybrid Camber
3. Not sure between true twin vs. directional twin.
With regards to flex, I would outgrow a soft board too quickly, as I’d like to keep this into my intermediate phase, so I’d like a 4 or 5 flex rating. How do you feel about this?
Boards that I have read about that are on my radar are:
1. Yes Typo
2. Yes Standard
3. Capita DOA
With your length article, the chart says I should be going for a 154cm board, and to subtract 3 to 5 cm as a beginner. That leaves me with a range of 149cm – 151 cm.
What are your thoughts on the shape, length, and the boards on my radar?
Hi Aaron
Please refer to my reply on your comment on the Top 10 All Mountain snowboards post.
But just quickly, I think this is where you should be looking:
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Particularly:
– YES Typo
– Never Summer Snowtrooper
– Capita Outerspace Living
– YES Libre
– Burton Process Flying V
– Arbor Element Black Rocker
– Rossignol Templar
– Ride Wildlife
For my more detailed response, check out the other reply.
Hi Nate,
So I am looking at the Never Summer Proto Type 2. I’m 5’4, 128lbs, with a 6.5 boot size. I am debating between the 142 and the 145. I’ve been told to get the 142 from numerous people, as I’d have more control with it as I’m just entering what you’d consider an intermediate level, but I wanted to get another opinion.
Thanks,
Sarah
Hi Sarah
Thanks for your message.
I would say 142 as well. I think 145 is a length that would work really well for you for an all-mountain board at an advanced level. But I would go 142 for the Proto Type Two for a couple of reasons. Firstly, as a low intermediate rider sizing down a little will make the board more manageable (as you’ve been told).
But secondly, the Proto Type Two is a board that has quite a bit of effective edge vs overall length compared to the average board, so it’s one I would typically size down for anyway. So, I think the 142 would be a good size for you now, and would continue to be a good size for you even as you advance.
Finally, with 6.5 boots, I think the 142 would be a better width as well. It’s only a small difference from that to the 145 – but the combination of the width and length of the 142 makes the most sense, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate, great article and very informative. I have been snowboarding for quite sometime and consider myself to be adequately skilled. But I never learned to do tricks. Now I am into my 40s, and just starting to learn to ride switch, also maybe some ollie and nollie. I am 6’1 and 185lbs, taking a bad fall nowadays takes much longer to heal. I really need something easy to ride on and practice on. Any recommendation on which type of board I should purchase (or which specific board, brand, model etc.)? Thanks!!
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message – and apologies for the slow response. A bit behind and trying to catch up after vacation.
If this is going to be a second board to practice riding switch on, doing ollies etc, then I would go for a freestyle board. They are typically quite forgiving and easy going (there are more aggressive varieties, so I’ll steer you away from those). So, assuming you want that focus, I would check out:
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
But skip the Westmark Camber & Burton Paramount, which are more aggressive. The easiest going on that list, in order of easiest going to least easy going would be, IMO.
– Never Summer Dipstick
– Lib Tech Skate Banana
– Slash Happy Place
– Never Summer Funslinger
– Capita Ultrafear
– YES Basic
– Endeavor Pioneer
– YES Jackpot
– Arbor Westmark
– Burton Paramount
Roughly speaking.
Or you could certainly look at the likes of the freestyle focused ones from the following:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
PS: Let me know if you’re looking for something to do a bit of everything on. Like if this is your only board, and you’re still looking to be able to ride it fast, powder etc. Then I could narrow it down and find something that’s a good balance between easy going/freestyle focused and more do-it-all.
Hi thank you for this amazing article. So very late question. I kinda rushed it and bought capita BSOD as my first board and I seem to struggle very much… I did spend good money on that thing and now confused on what to do….should I just buy beginner board and someday use my capita? Or struggle through on that scary thing. I’m only 1.5 seasons in 🙁
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
The BSOD definitely not an easy board to learn on, IMO. I wouldn’t personally struggle through it – a. it’s not going to be enjoyable and b. if you start with something too far ahead of where you’re at, you’re liable to develop a crude technique (doing what you can just to survive getting down the hill) which can be hard to shake down the line. So, yeah, I would get a beginner board that you can progress quickly and easily on and can develop confidence and a good technique on and save the BSOD for when you’re more advanced – or sell it now and get a more advanced board down the line.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate – love your site. most informative I’ve found on this topic. Im looking to buy my 12 yr old sold a whole beginner set up for christmas (he’s been a few times but is still in beginner range). He’s about 5’2″ and barely over 100lbs but wears a size 8 shoe. We live on the east coast so most of our snow will be a little on the icier side. I feel like he’s in between a youth and mens size board – and his shoe size may push him over but I’d really like to buy his a shorter board because of his weight. What would you recommend. Looking forward to your advice, thanks a ton in advance!
Hi Andy
I would say something around 138-140 would be a good length for your son. Can’t think of any men’s boards that come in that size. Certainly some women’s boards and of course youth boards, but I would say most men’s boards would be too long. In terms of width, as long as you find something that’s at least 232mm (and preferably no more than around 243mm) at the waist, you should be fine. You could even probably get away with a little narrower, but if you wanted to be on the safe side, at least a 232mm waist width.
I don’t really have any experience with youth boards, but just having a quick look, the following look like they would be suitable size-wise and be beginner friendly too:
– K2 Vandal (either 137 or 142 – 137 would make learning easier, 142 would last him longer as he grows)
– Burton Custom Smalls 140
– Nidecker Prosper 140
– Arbor Helix 140 (at the narrow end in terms of width, but still doable – just whether you wanted to give him a bit of grow into or not)
– Lib Tech Banana Blaster 140
And I’m sure there are other options, but those were some that I found, that I think would be suitable.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, I’m 5ft 2 and weigh about 115lbs. I just started snowboarding (2 trips) this season in Australia and has been using rentals. I’ve used a 130cm board and 139cm board and the 139cm one worked better for me imo. My rental boots size is US 4.5 but I think that was a bit big for me. I am currently looking into purchasing my own gear. Do you reckon the Never Summer Startet 136cm, K2 First Lite, and Nitro Lectra would be suitable for me? Would 138 or 142 better for me?
Hi Jean
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of size, I would say anything between 137 and 139 would be a good length range to look at. With 136 and 140 also possibilities. Everything you’ve mentioned there should be good for a beginner rider, and the sizes there look good to (going 138 for the First Lite or Lectra).
I would be leaning towards the Nitro Lectra 138 – just because it’s a little narrower and with US4.5 boots, you would be better off going a little narrower, IMO. Another good narrow option, that’s also a good option for beginners is the GNU B Nice 139.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hello Nate ,
Your website is very helpful for beginner , Thank a lot.
I and my girlfreind we ‘re looking for the first beginner board (also binding and boot).
I’am 185 cm / 85 kg with cm 285 or us 10.5 snowboard boot size and my girlfried is
156 cm / 44 kg with cm 235 or us 5.
After do some researh in your list we plan to buy a set of gears as follows,
I’m looking for Burton instigator length size 160 cm waist wide 256 / Burton custom size L
with Thirty two shifty boa.
And for my girlfriend will be Nitro Lectra length 138 cm waist wide 226 / Burton Stiletto size S with thirty two shifty boa women’s.
Is that ok ? Or any recommendations on brand and size ? as we still not sure what the size of snowboard length and wide should we really buy.
Thank you very much.
Jay
Hi Jay
Thanks for your messages.
They sound like really good choices. Sounds like you’ve done your research.
One thing I wanted to clarify – you say your girlfriend’s boot size is 235 mondo and US size 5. Usually 235 translates to US women’s 6.5. I just wanted to confirm the size, to make sure the width of the Lectra is OK and the binding size is appropriate. If you can clarify that size, that would be great.
Otherwise sounds like a really good beginner setup. Perhaps ideally your board length would be more like 157 to 159 – but 160 certainly isn’t far off, and in terms of the Instigator, the 160 is the best size for you. But that’s getting pretty fussy, I think you’d be fine on the 160 Instigator.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate ,
Thank you for your reply.
For my girlfriend , It was a “HEAD” Boot at snowboard school with the placard that showed cm 235 / US 5.
(There may be a mistake)
But for her normal shoe it ‘s US 6.5 , So let’s say that her boot is US 6.5 as well.
And could you give us some suggestions about the length and waist wide size of the board (with bindind and boot) it should be ,
if we don’t buy the gears from our lists above.
Thank you very much.
JAY
Hi Jay
Thanks for the extra info. Yeah, if her normal shoe size is US6.5, then boot size is likely to be that or close to anyway.
Generally speaking, ideally I would say, taking into account that you are beginners (which mean’s taking off 3-5cm in length):
Your Length Range: 157-159
Your Width Range: 251-261mm waist width (with 15 degree binding angle) or 258-263mm waist width (with 0 degree binding angle)
Girlfriend’s Length Range: 135-137 (but not a lot of women’s boards in that range – so 138 is perfectly fine – and there are more options at 138cm – for shorter you usually have to go to kids boards)
Girlfriend’s Width Range: 220-230 (15 degree angle) and 225-235 (0 degree angle) – in general if you can get something that’s under 235mm that would be preferable
Hope this helps
Hi Nate ,
Most of Women’s Boards start from 138 cm.
So you mean if it has no choice she can take a kids boards as well ?
As i don’t know much about kids boards and what is really difference from adult boards.
Appreciate your help &
Look forward to the list for upcoming season.
Thank you.
Hi Jay
You’re very welcome
Yeah most women’s boards start at around 138cm – but there are a couple that come in 136 (GNU B Nice comes to mind). I also don’t know that much about kids boards. But they’re supposed to have less tech. But I’ve never really looked much into kids boards, so I couldn’t say for sure.
Thank you so very much for the detailed information, illustrations, and the links!!! I was so lost in selecting a snowboard for my son but now I feel as though I have been found.
You’re very welcome Theresa. Glad you found it helpful!
Hi Nate,
Your site has been incredibly helpful but would like some guidance, especially with board.
I’m male adult. 5’3″ and float around 120 pounds +/- 5 lbs
I’m relatively new to snowboarding and on beginner rental gear would say I’m feeling like I’m ending beginner level 3 and heading into intermediate 4. I bought a season lift pass for next season and want to get off rentals into my own gear.
Living in Southern California I’ll mostly be doing groomed runs, but I used to skate board and would like to hit the park here and there and comfortably ride down the runs regular and switch a lot. So would likely prefer to usually stay in center stance.
I wear a 7 in Burtons (I have some Ruler Boa and Swath Boa on the way to hopefully finalize my boot since single boa causes pressure points on my outer foot and nothing in my size and dual boa at my local shops this time of year).
From the sounds of it I’ll want small burton bindings. I’ve got an eye on the Cartel EST or Re:Flex. I like the sound of ESTs, but my burton channel options look really limited for board length for my weight and size. so I may want to go Re:Flex to give me more board options.
My last rental was a burton 140cm, the size felt good. I felt like I had good control of it. Burton doesn’t seem to make from what I see many in-between lengths like they just go from 140 to 145. Worried maybe 145 would be too much if I want to do some small occasional park stuff / spins / butters.
The boots and Bindings I’m looking at seem about medium flex. But a lot of the boards I’ve come across for my size seem very soft. Do you think mixing Cartel Bindings + Ruler or Swath boots with a soft board would be problematic at my current and upcoming skill level?
Thank you for the very informative website and hope you can give me some ideas. Trying to buy this gear so I can give it some runs before this season closes up to get a head start on the gear before next season.
Thanks!
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
IMO, for your specs, something around 140-142 would be a great size as a complete beginner. You could go a little longer as someone bordering on intermediate, maybe more like 141 to 144. But since you want to get into freestyle stuff, and since you felt comfortable on the 140, then I think 140-143 is probably a good range to look at.
With size 7s, would ideally be looking at something roughly 234-240 in terms of waist width.
There aren’t a huge amount of options for men’s boards in those sizes, but there are some. If you were happy to also look at women’s boards, there would be plenty of option in there. But definitely not necessary if you would prefer to stick with men’s boards.
The only thing that I can think of that comes in that size range from Burton would be the Instigator, which is a great beginner board, but probably not ideal for you for a couple of reasons. a. it’s quite directional, and not ideal for the style that it sounds like you’re looking to develop. b. it’s very soft and not an ideal match with the bindings and boots you’re looking at, and probably getting a bit on the soft side progression-wise, if you’re more at that high-end bordering on intermediate phase.
The following list has boards that are great for high-end beginner going on intermediate riders, but most won’t have a suitable size for you:
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
However, the following, IMO, would be great options for what you’re describing and in suitable sizes.
– GNU Money 140 (234mm waist) – this also comes in a 144 (242mm waist) which isn’t way off, but I like the sounds of the 140 for this board for you
– Endeavor Ranger 141 (242mm waist) – another great option in a really good size for you – also comes in a 144 (246mm waist) – but that might be getting a bit big with length and width combined – I think the 141 would be a great size for you though
– Lib Tech Skate Banana 145N (239mm waist). Slightly on the longer side from what we were discussing but doable. And a good width for your boots, IMO.
– YES Basic 143 (245mm waist) – a little wider than ideal, but still doable and a good length
If you can find one of those, I think they would work well. Options are usually a little more limited at this time of year, but I have seen the first 3 on that list in those sizes (linked above). The Basic might be hard to find in a 143 at this time of year, but you could see if you can find it, if that’s standing out to you.
Hope this helps
I’m 5’8 and around 175-180 pounds. I’ve snowboarded 3 times and really enjoy. What size do you recommend for the board ? Also , you suggest a flex of 3-4. Does this have to be the same for the bindings and boots as well ? The boots I’m interested in have a flex of 6.
Hi Michael
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would be looking at something between 153 and 155, for your specs and as a beginner.
I would recommend similar flex levels for boots and bindings as well yeah. Same thing with boots and bindings – can get tricky to maneuver at slower speeds with stiffer gear, and really unforgiving of errors. If anything is going to be stiffer, then boots is the one thing that I would be less concerned with but ideally you would still go for something around that 3/10, 4/10 flex level. With your 6/10 flex boots you could leave them a little looser to make them more forgiving, but it’s still not ideal, as that can affect smoothness, but if you were going to go stiffer with anything (board, bindings, boots), then boots is what I would be more relaxed about.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, Im going to buy a snowboard for beginner . Im 176 cm tall , 65 kg .i wear a size 42 (EU Size ) shoe. I boarded 5 days this year ( it was my first time ). If you have time, could you please help me decide on my first board ( board length and width, boots etc) ?Thank you in advance .
Slawek
Ps. You are doing great job with you Website!:)
Hi Slawek
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise I would look at something between 149 and 151 for your specs, as a beginner.
Width-wise, translating EU42 to US9 (just because my brain works in US sizes), which is usually the case for most brands, something in the range between around 245mm (waist width) and 252mm, would be a good width to look at.
For some good options for beginners, check out:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
For boots and bindings, check out:
>>Top 5 Beginner Bindings
>> Top 7 Beginner Boots
>>How to Size Snowboard Boots
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m new to snowboarding. I’ve been interested for years, just haven’t had the chance to try it out. I went for the first time last weekend with a rental board(burton). The boots they gave me(burton) were size 14. I wear a size 13 shoe. They seemed to fit alright and were nice and tight, but that was probably wrong.
I spent the whole day eating it hard in hard packed snow on the bunny slope and easy street(green). It seemed as if I was getting a lot of speed, not really being able to turn, and catching an edge into a wipeout. Along with that it seemed at times my back foot would come around when riding left forward.
When changing my stance to goofy, I couldn’t get the board to come around. When. I finally did. I would catch and edge and eat it.
I plan on trying to hit the slopes on more time this year. Then practicing at home for next season. I definately want to buy my own gear, but not break the bank. I’m 6’4″ 230lbs with a size 13 shoe. Do you have any recommendations?
I will be spending most of my time at ski apache in New Mexico,USA if that helps.
Amazing article by the way!
Thanks Ryan
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
With a size 13 shoe, and assuming you get into a size 13 boot, I think the Burton Instigator would be a good option, as it goes quite wide.
Length-wise, something around 162 to 164 would be a good length for your specs, as a beginner. The Instigator only has 160W and 165W, so it’s whether you wanted to start longer or shorter. The 165W would be a better width.
Generally speaking, width-wise, I would try to get something with at least 267mm at the waist – assuming something like +15/-15 binding angles.
But if you can get low profile boots, then it would give you a bit more leeway, and with +15/-15 angles, should be able to get closer to around 262mm at the waist. So, if I was you I would go with low profile to give you more options.
From the brands that I test, I’ve found Adidas, Vans, Burton and Ride boots to have the lowest profile. Then that opens up the options for you. I would check out the following list, for what I consider to be great beginner gear options.
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
>>Top 5 Beginner Bindings
>> Top 7 Beginner Boots
If you have any further questions about anything from those lists, let me know.
If you’re still not sure if you’re goofy or regular and haven’t done anything to test, check out:
Am I goofy or regular?
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Am just getting into boarding, so really appreciate your site.
I’ve done a week every few years at the snow for last decade, but since moving from Australia to Sweden its way more accessible, so keen to get into weekend trips pretty often.
Can link turns, happy on blue runs but notice when I’ve hired a board – if its stiff, i swing into my turns (as it takes so long to turn, I just swing by default to complete turn quicker – i know bad.) and am super conscious of not catching an edge as I’ve had a few tumbles from it.
SO, am wondering what board you’d recommend?
Big fan of Nitro / Arbor and in Sweden can get a little icey. I’m 5″7, 146lb, Boot Size 9.5US.
Am going to pair with either Nitro TLS Monarch or Crown as they were ace for my narrow width when I tested before.
Thanks so much for your help in advance,
Cheers, Ruth.
Hi Ruth
Thanks for your message.
I would check out the following list:
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
I have labelled the boards that are the best in hard/icy conditions on there. Those 3 would all be suitable in my opinion. The 2 Arbor options and the Nitro option in that list aren’t quite as good in hard/icy conditions, IMO. But not far off. They are the next best on the list, so would still be suitable if you wanted to stick with Arbor/Nitro.
Size-wise, I would say to look at something in the range of 148-150 for your specs/ability level. But I like to put a bit of a caveat on that. If you’re used to something much shorter or much longer, then we can adjust that range. But if you’re not sure of your size, then I think that would be a good range to look at for you. In terms of waist width, something between 240mm and 250mm at the waist would be a good range to look at. If you ride with a really straight back foot (if you have set binding angles, which a lot of people don’t whilst they’re renting), then upping the minimum to more like 243mm is a good idea.
So for the boards from that list, the following sizes would work, IMO:
~ YES Emoticon: 149 (241mm waist)
~ GNU Chromatic: 149 (241mm waist)
~ Rossignol Meraki: 150 (240mm waist)
~ Nitro Lectra: 149 (238mm waist) – might be getting a little narrow for your boots, but if you know your binding angles and you ride with a reasonable angle on your back foot, then you’ll probably be ok
~ Arbor Ethos: 150 (237mm) – same comments in terms of width as Lectra
~ Arbor Poparazzi: 150 (237mm) – same comments in terms of width as Lectra
Since you’re not a complete beginner though, I like the idea of something like the YES Emoticon & Arbor Poparazzi, which have just a little more performance.
Also keep in mind that something like the Meraki is quite a park specific board – still good to learn basic turns on, but since you’re not a complete beginner, that’s something to think about, if you’re not looking for a park board. On that list, I have also noted the “style” of each board. An all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle board are the most versatile.
One last thing: If you wanted to stick with Nitro/Arbor another option that’s just a step up from the Lectra and would be a good option, IMO, is the Nitro Mystique 149 (238mm waist).
Oh yeah and those boots sound like they should be fine for you in terms of flex, and since you’ve tried them on and know they’re a good fit, that’s a good way to go.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate. Very nice article. Could you please help choosing my board? I am willing to buy the Burton Yeasayer Flying V. But I’m not sure if I should go for 140 or 144 cm. I am 5’2” height and 115 lbs weight. I want an All Mountain board. This is the 4th season that I’m snowboarding. Please help me!!! .
Hi Diana
For your specs, for that board, I would say go for the 140. You would be able to ride the 144 as well, but the 140 would be the better size for you, IMO.
Hello Nate!
Amazing article! I’m a beginner snowboarder, still on the stage of linking turns as well. I plan to get my first board and was wondering if you could help with some recommendations in terms of board length and width and bindings for Burton brand specifically (due to logistical issue).
I’m 5’2″ and weigh 101 lb. And I’ll only be on the slopes up to a week each season.
Thanks so much!! 🙂
Hi Ju
Thanks for your message.
The best Burton boards for beginners are the Burton Genie or Burton Feather, IMO. If you tend to ride somewhere that gets a lot of powder, and you plan to ride off-groomer at any point, then the Feather is the better option. Otherwise go for the Genie, IMO.
In terms of size, something around 136 to 138 would be a good length for you, IMO. The Genie comes in a 138, which would be your best bet. The shortest Feather is 140. That would be doable but a little long for you, as a beginner, in my opinion.
For bindings, I would go with either the Citizen or the Stiletto as a beginner. In terms of size for bindings, if you could let me know your snowboard boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of boot size yet) and I can give you my opinion for the best size for you.
Hope this helps
Hello again Nate,
Thank you so much for all of your suggestions. Really appreciate them! 🙂 I hope you don’t mind some extra questions to clarify further.
In terms of your board suggestions, my best bet would be The Genie, since Feather is a little too long for my size. Although I would prefer Feather since some of the places I go to do get a lot of powder. Would The Genie be good in these situations as well?
And sorry, my bad for not including my shoe size. I’m a size US 7.5 (Womens).
Thanks again Nate.
Hi Ju
The Genie, like any snowboard, can ride in powder – but it’s just going to be more of an effort to keep the nose from sinking, when in quite deep powder. The Feather is going to be less effort in powder.
I think you would be fine with the Feather in the 140, now that I think of it, because it is narrower than the Genie. Being narrower you can afford to go a little longer. The Feather 140 is on the narrower side for your boot size, but should still be perfectly fine. The Genie 138 would be on the wider side, but again still doable, if you did decide to go for Genie – both within your range in terms of width, IMO.
So yeah, since you are likely to ride in powder a bit, then the Feather might be the better option – both would work, but leaning towards Feather because of powder.
Hi Nate!
I am a beginner snowboarder, still learning to link turns and starting to go down blue runs. I am looking for a board that will be a good beginner board that I won’t grow out of for a while. I am currently looking at the Burton Deja Vu Flying V. Is this a good board for beginners? I am 5’7 and 130 lb. What length would you recommend? There is a store that has a 149 cm Burton Deja Vu on sale that I am interested in.
I am also looking at the Rossignol Frenemy and Salomon Lotus. I really want a board that is easy to turn and versatile as I don’t know what style I want to ride yet. I also might move to the East Coast so I want a board that is good in icy conditions. Any recommendations are appreciated.
Thanks so much!
Hi Kailey
Thanks for your message.
In terms of size, I think something around 149 would be a good size for you if you were at a more advanced level, but as a beginner, I think it’s getting a little on the long side. It’s a good idea to take off 3-5cm as a beginner, as a rule of thumb, which would put you in the range of 144 to 146. I think going with something more like 146, 147 would be a good call, it would be a size that would be suitable as a beginner and would still be a size you could ride as a more advanced rider.
The Deja Vu isn’t what I would consider the ideal beginner board – but it’s not a bad choice for a beginner – and it’s something that I would recommend for a high-end beginner/low level intermediate and up – and it’s certainly something you wouldn’t grow out of too quickly. Not something that’s going to go well in icy conditions though, IMO, so that might be a deal breaker. And yeah, if you were to go Deja Vu, I would say 146 would be the better size for you.
The Frenemy is another board that’s more high-end beginner and up, so if you feel you’re close to being there, then it’s an option. And it is something that’s great in hard/icy conditions, so it’s got you covered in that respect. In terms of size, the 144cm would be the easiest for you to learn on, but the 147 would be something that would be a size you could continue to ride even as an advanced rider.
The Salomon Lotus, is again, something that I would consider high-end beginner and up. But maybe not as good at a more advanced level than the other two above. In terms of hard/icy conditions, not as good as the Frenemy but pretty good and doable in that respect. Size-wise, I would say 146 for that one.
Another option is the YES Emoticon – ticks all the boxes – good in hard/icy conditions, good for a beginner, verstaile and something that you won’t grow out of too quickly. The 146 would be the size there, IMO.
The Never Summer Infinity is also very versatile, a good beginner option that you shouldn’t grow out of too quickly. Not up there with the Frenemy and Emoticon in terms of edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, but pretty good. I’d say 145 but you could go 147 too.
I’d make the same comments about the GNU Velvet Gnuru except that it’s probably a little more challenging for a beginner. 147.
Hope this helps and gives you some options
Really appreciate your website as it is extremely informative in making decisions for a beginner.
I boarded 10 days last season and only 1 day so far this season. Looking to get maybe 5 – 7 more days in on some of the upcoming weekends and thought I should look into buying a beginner board/bindings.
I looked at your top 15 list and settled between the Yes Basic and the Yes Typo. I ultimately think I will go with the Basic due to its true twin shape and praise for its flexibility. I am 5′ 9” and ~ 175 – 185 lbs (depends on whether I am marathon training or doing Ironmans, legs tend to bulk up when biking a lot). I was thinking of purchasing the 155 cm [WW 251 cm] and then going with Union Flite Pro Bindings M/L as I am a size 10.0 boot.
Any specific questions to ask myself to ensure that the Basic over the Typo is the right fit? I ride primarily groomers right now (typically Blues, with a few blacks sprinkled in at Big Bear / Mammoth).
Bindings/Board/Boot Size/Weight/Height all appear to be compatible?
Appreciate the awesome website. Everything I typed above, I learned from reading the website articles and piecing it all together.
Hi Grant
Thanks for your message.
Yeah I think the 155 would be spot on for you for either the Typo or the Basic.
The Flite Pros would be a good match too and yeah I would go for Mediums for Union bindings – I’m a size 10 also and prefer the mediums over the large. You’re on the cuff between Medium and Large, but I would go with Medium. In terms of their old sizing (in case you’re looking at older model Flite Pros) M/L = Medium and L/XL = Large.
In terms of choosing between the Typo and the Basic, I would say one thing to ask yourself is whether you see yourself doing tricks/riding switch down the line or whether you think you’ll be more interested just riding fast, carving and maybe heading into the backcountry at some stage – or at least off groomer into some powder. If it’s the former, then the Basic is a little more suited to more freestyle stuff (though the Typo isn’t bad in that area either) – if it’s the latter, then the Typo is probably the better bet. If you’re not sure, then the Typo is a little more versatile to cover more bases. But yeah, if you like the idea of being centered, then the Basic.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for all the information you provide. I was hoping you could help guide me to the correct snowboard. I would say I’m a level 2 beginner and I have a huge fear of catching an edge when I ride on relatively flat terrain. I’d just be going down runs and have no interest in doing tricks or whatnot. I’m 5’10” and weigh 175 lbs. i wear a size 10 shoe. Thanks so much!
– Simone
Hi Simone
In terms of size, I would say something between 153 and 155 would be a good range to look at, as a level 2 beginner. And I would check out the list below:
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
Width-wise, with 10s, at least 244mm at the waist would be good to look at and up to 252mm. If you have a bit more angle on your back binding (e.g. 9 to 15 degrees), you could go a little narrower than that.
From that list the following would be good choices, IMO.
~ Burton Genie 152 (244mm waist) – just under the range in terms of length but certainly doable
~ Rossignol Gala 154 (238mm waist) – this would be doable with a good angle on your back foot, but might be a bit narrow depending on binding angles
~ K2 First Lite 154 (240mm waist) – ditto the Rossi Gala
Hope this helps to give you some options
Hi Nate,
Tomorrow I’m buying my first snowboard. After days of research (adjusted to local stores offers) I narrowed the choice to: Gnu Asym Carbon Credit BTX 2018 (159W) vs. Salomon PULSE 17/18 (158W)
and for bindings: K2 Hurrithane (XL) vs. Salomon Pact (L) vs. Salomon Rhytm (L)
I’m a 6’0” 185lbs boot US13 38 yo guy.
Please comment about this choices having in mind I’m a total beginner.
Hi Blanco
Thanks for your message.
First of all, I think you’re spot in terms of length for your specs, as a beginner.
Both boards are suitable for beginners, though I would say that the Carbon Credit is perhaps a little better – and the only reason I say that is that the Pulse doesn’t have any rocker in the profile.
The other reason I would go Carbon Credit is that it will be a safer option for your boot size. With 13s, I’d say you’d want to go at least 265mm at the waist, so I feel like the Pulse, even though it’s a wide board, would still be too narrow for you.
Because the Carbon Credit is an asym board it’s recommended to ride with a mirror duck stance in terms of your binding angles (so something like +15/-15 or +12/-12 for your angles) but that’s probably not a bad idea anyway – given that with a straighter angle on your back foot, you might even need to go wider with 13s.
So, yeah overall, the Carbon Credit 159W would be the best option for you, IMO.
In terms of bindings, I think you’ve again got the sizings correct there. In terms of which to go with – I’d say either Hurrithane or Rhythm and preferably Hurrithane. Pact is a pretty low-end binding and even though it would be suitable, it would be something you’d want to upgrade from pretty quickly. The other two would last you a bit longer. The Hurrithane’s are your best option, IMO, but the Rhythm’s are a good bit cheaper, and would still do the job, if you’re looking to save a bit of cash.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Snowboard begginer here, been reading and following your advice, lately. About to get my first board and can’t decide between the Burton Ripcord and Instigator, being the directional/twin shape the majn factor, I wanna learn to ride well, learn switch and maybe basic ground tricks in the future. What’ do you think?
Greetings from Barcelona!
Hi Raul
Thanks for your message.
Both the Ripcord and Instigator have a directional shape – but the Instigator has a twin flex, and the Ripcord has a directional flex. So the Ripcord is more directional than the Instigator. They both have a setback stance of 25mm – so neither are ideal for learning switch and tricks, but the Instigator would be the slightly better option.
The other option, if you want to go Burton, is the Amplifier – the Amplifier is another beginner option but it has a twin shape, twin flex and a centered stance – which all make it easier for learning switch and tricks.
Size is also important – if you want a size recommendation, just let me know your height, weight and boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of boot size yet) and I would be happy to give you my opinion on the best size for you.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Its not often you find someone who provides as much value as this post does, the feedback in the comments to people are gold. Thank you for writing it.
Hi Jo
Thanks for your kind words! Appreciate it.
Hi Nate,
After reading your article I decided to go with the yes emoticom snowboard. My riding style is all mountaineer, and I am a beginner. My problem is I’m having a hard time deciding on boots and bindings. I want something easy and comfortable that will go with this board. Could you please give me your subgestions? Thanks
Hi Jordyn
Thanks for your message. I would start by checking out the following lists. Let me know if you don’t find anything in there that you have available and can give you other options.
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
Hope this helps
Hello!
I’m looking at a arbor west mark rocker as a beginner Board. All mountain riding. Thoughts? Cheers !
Hi Shaun
Thanks for your message.
Arbor isn’t a brand I currently test, but based on the specs, I would say that it’s a little bit on the stiffer side to be ideal as a beginner board. From what I can tell it’s rated a 6/10 for flex, and if that’s accurate, then it’s certainly on the stiffer side. It’s otherwise probably good for beginners but that flex level is the only thing. Also, Based on what I’ve seen, this is more of a freestyle oriented board – one that you can probably ride over the whole mountain – but more focused on the park.
Not the worst option, but also not the best, IMO – just based on specs.
If you haven’t already you can check out the following for other options if you decide against the Westmark Rocker:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
The article is amazing and it has helped me quite a bit to understand the ins-and-outs. If you have time, could you please help me decide on my first non-rental board to get this season? So far my experience is quite limited but has had some runs the past two seasons. Could cautiously go down a red and could link turns on slower blues. (quite shaky at medium to high speeds)
I’d like to do some park runs and even on pistes I like trying 180s and smaller jumps even with limited experience..
I’m 178cm 75kg male.. I was enjoying the freedom of being able to go switch on my first rental board (have some skateboarding experience)
So far I have looked at
Burton Instigator (155) + Custom EST,
Burton Descendant (155) + Custom EST,
Burton Process Flying V (157) + Custom EST,
K2 Standard + ?
I am really unsure which one could I take and use it to build more confidence with linking faster turns and smaller jumps. I have read mixed reviews and so far the K2 Standard seems the best as a beginner.. but for some reason the EST tech looks like something worth having with a Burton maybe.
Thank you very much in advance,
Hi Peter
Thanks for your message.
If you like the sound of EST/channel system, then there’s no reason not to go Burton.
Out of the options you have I would say the following, and also include the Amplifier in there as another good Burton beginner/intermediate board option:
~ The Instigator is the easiest to ride and is the easiest to learn on but the Process Flying V and the Amplifier aren’t far off. The Descendant is a little less beginner friendly – it’s ok for a beginner but it has Burton’s Pure Pop Camber camber profile which is a little more technical than the Flat Top (Amplifier, Instigator) and the Flying V (Process Flying V) on the other boards.
~ The Process Flying V is the stiffest followed by the Amplifier, then Descendant then the Instagator is the softest. But even the Process Flying V is medium-soft, so they’re all appropriate flex wise for a beginner level.
~ The Amplifier and the Descendant will be the best for riding switch, although the Descendant will be more difficult if you’re still learning to ride switch well – and the Process Flying V isn’t far off for riding switch, so I’d say that the Amplifier is the best for beginner switch followed by the Process Flying V. The Instigator has a tapered directional shape and a 25mm setback, so it’s not as suitable for riding switch.
~ The Process Flying V is going to be the board that will still be the most suitable for riding when you’re at a more advanced level – and the Descendent, if you were going to be riding a lot of park. But the Amplifier will also take you deeper into your progression. The Instigator is more of a pure beginner board.
~ The Flying V, the Descendant and the Amplifier are all better for jumps than the Instigator.
The K2 is most similar to the Instigator in terms of being setback (not as much as the Instigator but more than the Process Flying V) and is more directional and softer – and again is more of a pure beginner board.
Based on all of that I’d say that the Process Flying V or the Amplifier are the most suitable for what you’re describing. The Process Flying V is more versatile and the Amplifier more freestyle oriented. Ideally, I would go 155cm for the Process Flying V at this stage – you could definitely go 157cm but 155cm would be more appropriate for right now. The 157 would be a bit more of a learning curve but would be a more appropriate length for you when you’re more advanced.
If you went Amplifier, I would say 154 – again you could go 157 again – though if you went 154, you would have a good park board and a good length for the park for you, and if you did decide to upgrade down the line you could keep your 154cm Amplifer for the park or for ground tricks etc and then get a 158cm-ish board for your more all-mountain riding.
Just to be sure that these options are appropriate width-wise, can you also let me know your boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of boot size – they’re usually similar, if not the same).
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi I really enjoyed the article and thought was very informative. I have one question though.
I have large feet around 11-12 size. I went snowboarding once before but couldn’t make a single turn as my shoes would catch the snow straight away. Is there a specific board or type I should be looking at to buy ?
Thanks for your help
Hi Richard
Yeah, there are wide boards, which is what you should go for. It’s surprising that you weren’t given a wide board – were you on a hire board? Or did you borrow from a friend?
Check out the list at the link below for some great beginner board options.
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
And also check out the following for a guide on choosing the right length and width.
>>Choosing Snowboard Length
>>Snowboard Width Sizing
You should be able to find something suitable from that list and get a suitable size using those guides. But if you have any questions, just let me know.
Thanks Nate,
Yes the board I was on was a rental, but I knew something wasn’t right about the setup.
Really appreciate the help and information. My Wife and I are looking at buying our own equipment before our next snow trip.
Your article has given us enough information to feel comfortable enough to go into a store and shop around now.
Hi Richard
Definitely surprising they didn’t put you on a wide for your rental – but in truth, they’re not often that good at selecting boards for people (just want to get you through fast!)
Glad that the info was able to help and make you feel more comfortable for purchasing gear now. Hope you have a great trip and an awesome winter!
Thanks a lot Nate. I had no idea which one might be better for him. I read on the good ride site that there was a more flex on the standard compared to the lil bit stiffer mod rocker. Thanks again Nate, Quin
You’re very welcome Quin. Have an awesome season!
Hey Nate. thanks again for all your advice posted throughout your site. One question for you. I’ve got a buddy who will be visiting me this winter in Whitefish, same weight/height as I so between my two boards, a 2017 Rome mod rocker or a 2017 Yes standard, which board would be easier for him to play on since he’s new to snowboarding but skated for years back in the day so has great balance. I know both aren’t beginner boards but that’s all I have for him to use. I’m guessing the rocker might have a softer flex which might make the Rome a little easier, not sure. Thanks again for your feedback Nate!
Hi Quin
Thanks for your message.
Yeah I’d say both aren’t really beginner rides – but are both fine for an intermediate level, so hopefully aren’t going to be too demanding.
As for which one is better for a beginner – I’m not sure. I haven’t ridden the Mod Rocker, but based on reviews, it sounds like it’s a more aggressive ride than it’s flat to rocker profile would suggest – and might actually be stiffer than the Standard (what would you say?).
The YES standard is pretty forgiving of skidded turns, so I’m almost leaning towards this as the better option. But like I say, I haven’t ridden the Mod Rocker, so it might also be ok for skidded turns.
Sorry I couldn’t be more help – but yeah, I’d say YES Standard, but without having ridden the Mod Rocker I couldn’t say for sure.
Hello Nate,
Thanks for the awesome info! Could you recommend a good set up for me please? I’ll need a new Board, bindings, and boots. I would say my skill level is between 3.5 and 4.5. This year my goal is to learn and ride switch comfortably. I am 6’1, 230lbs, and wear a size 11 boot. I mainly just cruise around on groomies, no parks, no pipes, and I enjoy getting into some powder when I can. I really appreciate your suggestions and thanks again!
Hi Aaron
Thanks for your message.
So it sounds like you’re just entering the intermediate phase. That and because of how you like to ride, I would say that an all-mountain board is the way to go. They’re good in powder, for riding the groomers, are easy going enough for intermediate riders and whilst they’re not ideally suited for riding switch they can do it pretty well – generally speaking.
So I think the best place to start is checking out the link below:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
If you’re looking for something that’s quite quite a cruisey easy going ride, then the YES Typo or the Burton Process Flying V would be good options for you – they’re also the best for riding switch on that list. If you’re often in hard/icy conditions, then the Typo would be the best bet. If you’re usually in good snow, then the Process Flying V is just as good an option. Some other good options from that list are the Jones Mountain Twin and the Slash Brainstorm and another one not on that list that’s really easy going, but still an all-mountain board is the Never Summer Snowtrooper. You’d be fine on anything on that list but these are just some of the better easy going options, if that’s the way you’re looking.
In terms of length, I would go with something around 162 to 164. In terms of width, something with a waist width between 255mm and 262mm would be ideal and I wouldn’t go any narrower than 254mm at the waist, unless you are getting low profile boots (Adidas, Burton and Ride are the best in the industry for that), in which case you could go down a couple of mm more, but still stick to no narrower than 252mm at the waist.
With all this in mind the following would be great sizes for the boards discussed above:
YES Typo: 163W
Burton Process Flying V: 162 or 162W
Jones Mountain Twin: 161W or 162
Slash Brainstorm: 163W
Never Summer Snowtrooper: 160X
In terms of bindings, check out the following:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
These would be a good match for any of those boards. If you’re looking for slightly cheaper options, check out the Burton Missions, Union Force, Flux TT.
For boots, check out the following:
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
The second one hasn’t been updated for 2017-18 yet, but is still relevant for 2016-17 models.
I know this is a lot of info, so let me know if you have any questions. Hope this helps
What an awesome post that I wish I’d read 3 seasons ago!
My ex ‘helped me’ purchase my first board (affectionately named “P-pow” for a reason) which I’ve taken a total beating on. Picked before I had no idea of the lingo, as one I could ‘grow into’. About to retire it, as now beyond repair, but will be taking all your advice on board so I can enjoy the ride more!
Hi Amz
Glad you found the post useful. I hear so many people talk about getting boards to grow into, but it’s not the smartest move. And a lot of advise from really good snowboarders can be misleading – especially those that learned how to ride so young that they don’t remember learning – they’re the worst because, they’ll say just get anything and you’ll be able to ride it (because they can). Anyway, hope your next board makes riding more enjoyable for you and helps you to progress faster – and get slammed less!
Hi Nate,
I am hoping you can help me! I am looking to buy my first snowboard, ( I am a beginner).
I have found a website that I am thinking of buying from, ( You may have heard of them – Airtracks).
I have tried to use the information on your webpage on what I should be looking for as a beginner.
But I seemed to have hit a bit of a brick wall, with regards to the (camber profile). The only camber profile (Airtracks) have on they’re snowboards are : ( Camber/Hybrid Rocker/Zero Rocker & V-Rocker).
Can you help me?
The reason why I am looking on this website is that I can get a package deal on all the equipment including a snowboard bay.
May be you can recommend an alternative website.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Hi Kerry
First I’ve heard of Airtracks!
In terms of their profiles, there are usually different names that go around for different profiles – but will be essentially the same profiles.
From what I can see from their websites the equivalents of there’s to the names that I have would be (as far as I can tell):
~ Camber = Traditional Camber (don’t go for one of these – very tricky to learn on)
~ Zero Camber = Flat to Rocker (this is a good beginner option)
~ Hybrid Rocker = Hybrid Camber (I think but it might cover hybrid rocker and hybrid camber?)
~ V Rocker = could be either Hybrid rocker or continuous rocker
I can’t really comment on the quality of these boards though. I’ve had no experience on them or even heard of them. I don’t know heaps of sites in the UK/Europe but the main one I deal with is Blue-Tomato but there’s also sites like Absolute snow, The Snowboard Shop, Board Basement etc.
Not sure if you can find boards as cheap as at this Airtracker site but I could vouch more for quality.
You could also check out my top beginner boards list, if you were to go down the track of a more known/traditional brand.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am having trouble piecing together the size board I would need. I’m 6’1 and weight 185 pounds, so I was recommended to get a 160+ board, however, I wear a size 9.5 boot. How would you recommend balancing a board big enough for my frame, but small enough for my boot size?
Thanks for the help!
Tom
Hi Tom
For starters, I would say that something around 160cm to 162cm would be a good size for you if you were a more advanced rider – but if you are a beginner I would be looking at something more around 157cm to 159cm.
In terms of boot size, if you get something with a waist width somewhere between 247mm and 253mm – that range would suit 9.5s well. You wouldn’t have to adjust length at all for those widths. And most boards in that 157 to 159 length will have a width roughly in that range.
If you did end up with a wider width, then reducing that length can certainly help to balance the ride but you shouldn’t need to do that.
If you want some ideas for some beginner board options, check out the following link:
>>My Top 5 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Excellent article on how to choose a beginner snowboard. I’m 6 foot 5 and 230 pounds with a US size 13 foot. I’ve never ridden a snowboard before so was wondering if you could steer me in the right direction for the correct snowboard package that will give me the best chance at a reasonable progression at a reasonable price.
Thanks for your help
Hi John
Thanks for your message.
In terms of size, I think something around a 162cm to 163cm would be a good way to go. And with size 13s make sure you get a board with a waist width of at least 265mm.
The YES Basic 163W might be a good option. It has a 263mm waist which is a bit under what I said above but as a beginner you would likely get away with that, since you won’t be getting right up on the edges for a little while.
The Ride Agenda 161W and the Rossignol District 161W would also be suitable. A little bit under that ideal but would still be within a good range for your first board.
All the boards I’ve mentioned here are great for beginners too.
Hope this helps
Thanks for your help Nate
You’re very welcome John
Hi Nate, I’ve spent a couple of hours on your website today, there’s some great info here! Can you give me some advice – according to the Lib-tech website their recommended model for a beginner is the Skate Banana, which appears to have a Hybrid Rocker profile: Skate Banana at Lib Tech
What is your opinion on this board, considering it has a different profile than your recommendation? Is it still suitable for an all-mountain beginner board? I have done 2 days on the slopes. Thanks!
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message and thanks for visiting the site.
Yeah, I think from Lib Tech’s line the Skate Banana would be their best in terms of a beginner board. But I wouldn’t say ideal as a beginner board.
Even though it does technically have a hybrid rocker profile (which I would consider the next best thing for a beginner after hybrid camber and flat to rocker) it’s probably closer to a continuous rocker in reality. So, just keep in mind that it’s quite a loose feeling board. It is super easy to initiate turns on, so in that way it is very beginner friendly. But to be ideal as a beginner board I would normally look at something that’s a little bit more stable. But if you think you’ll like that looser feel and if being catch free and super easy to turn is your priority it might work for you.
The other thing to keep in mind is that, although Lib Tech call this an all-mountain board (in my opinion companies use this term liberally because it sells), I would say it’s more of a freestyle/park board first and foremost. It’s a freestyle/park board that’s pretty good at riding the rest of the mountain, but I wouldn’t class it strictly as an all mountain board.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
One quick question about the size/length of the board. I’m pretty petite woman at 5′ tall and 100 lbs. What size board would work for me? I’m also a beginner snowboard.
Thanks for the help!
Elizabeth.
Hi Elizabeth
For you, I would want to look at something between 135cm to 137cm – given your specs and that you are a beginner. There isn’t a huge range of women’s boards in those sizes – though there are some – so you might need to look at some 138cm options too. But I wouldn’t go too much longer than that or it could make it harder to progress on.
If you haven’t already seen it, check out the link below for some options. If you’d like more options, let me know. There are other boards that are very suitable for beginners and these are just 5 of them.
~ Top 5 Women’s Snowboards for Beginners
The other option is to look into youth sizes – there would be more options in there at that 135-137 range.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Loved reading your post! I was hoping you could help me out a little further. I am in my first season of snowboarding. I absolutely love it! Yesterday, I went to a new mountain in New Jersey and conditions were prime. It wasn’t very icy compared to the other mountain I’ve been going to in New York. I rented a snowboard called Burton Progresson 152 (I would assume the size of board but I’m a newbie haha). I absolutely loved it and felt very comfortable. I was shredding the mountain as if I’ve been doing it for years! Honestly, that’s how I felt. I bought an app to track my runs, speed, distance, etc and was reaching speeds of 30+ mph. I was shocked! Not sure it means anything, but like I said I just felt so comfortable going down the mountain at high speeds and turning with ease! In any event, not to keep boring you or sound like I’m bragging or anything, I am in the market of getting my own board. I would like to have this board that I buy for a while if possible. I feel that I’m somewhat passed the beginner stage and moving towards the intermediate stage. This is where I’m looking for your help in purchasing my first snowboard that you think will be a good fit. I am 5’10, 175 pounds and wear a size 10 boot. I am willing to spend a little extra for a board if you feel will be a better fit for me. I had been looking at the Burton Clash, Burton Ripcord and the Yes board that you put in your top 5. If you have some time, I would love to get your feedback in helping me make my first snowboard purchases!
Thank you very much for taking the time to read my comment and provide feedback!
Mike
Hi Mike
Awesome that you’re loving it! I just had an awesome day on my local mountain too – 30cm (12″) of snow in the last 48 hours made for some awesome riding.
You’re correct the “152” is the length of the board (in centimeters). This would be a very easy going length for you to ride. I think you will quickly (probably already have) graduate out of this so for the board you buy I would go for something longer. For your specs and at that advanced-beginner/intermediate level, I would say something between a 155 and 157 would be a good length for you.
With a size 10 boot you’ll have plenty of good width options too. As a guide – something with a waist width of between 249mm and 255mm is a good way to go.
I wouldn’t personally go with the Clash or the Ripcord – the only reason being that both aren’t that great in hard and icy conditions – even though you had great conditions last time out you’ll want a board that can handle hard/icy conditions a little bit if you’re out on the east coast.
The YES Basic is a great option for that – it’s great in hard and icy conditions. The 155cm would be the best size for you I think. You could almost get on the 158cm but on balance I think the 158cm.
Some other options that would be good in hard/icy conditions (and other conditions of course), that are still relatively easy to ride for a beginner to intermediate rider and something that will enable you to progress to a more advanced level, would be:
~ YES Typo 155 (251mm waist) – like the Basic but with a setback stance – a little bit more all mountain oriented
~ Slash Brainstorm 157 (250mm waist) – medium flex so a little stiffer than the Basic and Typo but otherwise suitable for a beginner and as you are progressing quickly you might well be ready for the step up in flex
~ Rossignol Templar 155 (249mm waist) – also medium flex
~ GNU Metal Gnuru 155 (253mm waist) – medium flex and also with a hybrid rocker profile that is a little trickier but has its advantages
~ Never Summer Snowtrooper 156 (252mm waist) – medium-soft flex with a hybrid rocker
All of these are all-mountain-freestyle or all-mountain snowboards. These are the most versatile styles of boards – that you can pretty much do anything on, which is a good idea to get either if you want to be able to do a bit of everything or if you’re still figuring out what your style is.
Personally I think the YES Basic or Typo or the Rossignol Templar would be the best of those options but they would all be suitable.
Hope this helps – let me know if you want other options.
Nate,
Awesome to hear that you had a great day on the mountain! Buddy of mine and I actually went back yesterday to Mountain as well and had a great time. Probably not as good of conditions as you had haha.
Appreciate you taking the time to provide all the feedback! That is extremely helpful information. I started looking at the boards you suggested and will more than likely look into the Yes Basic or Typo. Problem I’m running into is those boards are sold out on almost every site I look at. I guess everyone is doing the samething in trying to buy a board at end of season for cheaper price. Would you happen to know if this is common and they’ll restock or if that’s it until the new model comes out? I fear I’m too late but I hope not.
Also, as previously mentioned because I’m a newbie to the sport, what do you suggest for bindings? Is there a pair that works with all boards or I have to look for something specific pair when buying bindings? I think on the rental the bindings have been a size Medium for my size 10 boot.
I would assume boots don’t matter and are more of preference and comfort thing and will work will most if not all bindings as long as they are the right size for bindings.
Again, thank you so much for all the feedback! Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Mike
Hi Mike
You’re very welcome.
I’d say that’s it for the 2017 models. They probably won’t have any more until the 2018 models come out late summer/early fall. Unfortunately I couldn’t find one in the right size anywhere for you either.
For bindings, the main one you have to look out for is Burton’s EST bindings, they won’t fit on other brands snowboards. But Burton do also make bindings that fit on other brands snowboards – they are their “Re:Flex” models. For other brands, they will typically fit on everything – most of them will fit on Burton’s channel system (the binding mounting system that Burton boards use) as is and some will need a separate disc to make them fit. Most of them will go on a Burton board but it pays to check that they will if you get a Burton board.
In terms of sizing for bindings you would be a medium or a large on most brands – unfortunately there isn’t a universal system for this so each brands sizings are different. But you can check out the link below where I have created a table of binding sizings by brand.
~ Snowboard Binding Sizing
Like with boards it also matters what type of bindings – so something with a medium soft flex, up to medium flex would be a good bet. I would check out the links below to get started with some options. The ones in the first list will have a medium-soft flex and the ones in the second list have a medium flex.
~ Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Bindings
~ Top 5 All-Mountain Snowboard Bindings
In terms of boots fitting into bindings, you’re absolutely right, any boot will fit in any bindings. But again, you don’t want to get a boot that’s too stiff flexing – they can be pretty unforgiving. I think you would be fine with something with a medium flex and that’s what I would recommend for you. But I’ve put a link down there for boots with a medium-soft flex too (the beginner boots).
~ Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Boots
~ Top 5 Freestyle Snowboard Boots (these have a medium flex – these aren’t just for freestyle – sorry if the labeling is confusing!)
But yeah boot fit is also really important. So flex and fit is probably the main things to look out for.
~ How to Size Snowboard Boots
Hope this gives you more to go off. Let me know if you have any more questions or if you want any more suggestions for boards.
Nate,
Thanks again for ALL the info! Extremely helpful!
Due to not finding the Yes. Basic or Typo in my size, I started to look into the 2017 Rossignol Templar Magtek 155cm that you had also suggested. On a few sites the price has drop from $399 to $260. Seems like a great deal! What do you think?
Does this board compare to the Yes Basic or Typo or you think I’d be better fit waiting to go for one of those?
Which binding would suggest I go for if I was to make the Rossignol purchase?
Sorry to keep bugging you with all the questions, I am just not familiar and really appreciate your advice.
Thanks Nate!
Mike
Hi Mike
You’re very welcome. It’s what I do.
I think that is a great deal for the Templar. I personally prefer the YES options but it does depend on style of riding.
I’ll highlight what I think are some differences to see if that will make your decision easier.
The Templar will be better in powder. If you see yourself going off piste or backcountry, then this is a definitely plus of going with the Templar. The YES boards will be better for riding switch, jumps and jibs – in other words a bit more freestyle oriented. In terms of speed, the Templar and Typo will be similar in terms of stability at speed with the Basic being a little bit less stable at speed. In terms of carving and riding on uneven terrain, they’re all very similar.
That does sound like a good deal on the Templar – I would definitely be tempted at that price.
In terms of bindings – if you’re looking to get something reasonably priced but still reasonable quality then something like the Burton Custom or Union Flite Pro. But if you want to step it up a bit then anything from that all-mountain bindings list. They will be better for speed and quicker edge-to-edge transitions – but also cost a bit more. But hopefully you could find something on sale at the moment. If you go for something Burton then make sure you go for it in a Re:flex model and not the EST model.
Congratulations on the excellent material
You managed very simply to take many doubts that I had to buy my first snowboard
After reading your tips I was in the doubt between yes basic and yes typo
I’m a little more than beginner but still not interemediate
What is your opinion on these two options?
I’m between levels 3 and 4
Hi André
The Basic is the slightly easier board to ride but both are suitable for beginners. The Typo is a little bit more all-mountain oriented and the Basic is a little bit more freestyle oriented. So if you think that you want to be learning switch and tricks at some point, then the Basic is slightly more suited. That said, the Typo does lean towards being freestyle friendly for an all-mountain board – so you can do it too.
The Typo would be slightly better in powder and at speed and the Basic a little bit at riding switch – but otherwise they are actually quite similar boards. Because you’re not a complete beginner I don’t think either will feel more difficult to ride.
So both boards will help you to progress and both boards can take you a long way without needing to change. So they’re both good options with the Typo being slightly more versatile.
Hope this helps
Sorry for 2nd post, will be the last 🙂 … I can’t remember if I told you my shoe size of size 9, am 67 kg and 6 ft tall. Reading your 5 beginner board article Im thinking the YES board may be best but I’m concerned that it has no weight suggestions to the size. I thought this one because you suggest a hybrid camber is best for beginners. The RIDE agenda looks good but doesn’t have the camber you suggest. I liked the salomon sight especially for the price but when i clicked the link it suggested its not totally centred stance? Maybe i read it wrong? Many thanks for your patience, Ive learnt so much already and recommended the site to the whole group I’m going with to Morzine in march with 🙂 Cheers Nate!
Hi Jim
Hybrid camber is a good way to go (as long as it’s the right variety of Hybrid camber – some varieties can be too aggressive for beginners – but the one’s in the top 5 list have been specifically chosen to be easy to ride for beginners) but flat-to-rocker (as is on the Ride Agenda) is also a good profile for beginners.
But the YES Basic is certainly a good choice. For you I would go with the 155cm. I wouldn’t worry about it having no weight recommendations. Weight recommendations aren’t always the most accurate and not all snowboard companies choose to publish them. They can be handy as a quick way to see if a board is suitable but there is always a pretty broad range and it’s not the most accurate way to narrow down your best size.
Also – whilst YES doesn’t publish weight recommendations evo.com have estimated weight recommendations for YES boards and they put the Basic 155 at between 135lbs and 175lbs (60kg to 80kg). So you fit pretty close to the middle of that.
Height also comes into it as well, IMO.
But, long story short, I think the Basic is a good choice and the 155cm would be the best size for you.
Hope this helps
Thanks very much Nate! This is the best review and advice site for sure!
Going to order the YES 155. I’ll try on boots you recommend and get appropriate bindings too:) Cheers!
You’re very welcome Jim. Hope you enjoy your new board and have an awesome season!
Hello! I am new to snowboarding and only been on board couple of times, yet I really love snowboarding and I believe this sport is for me! However im tired of renting boards, and would like to buy one. Thinking about Burston clash 2016 model, I am 185cm 68kg weight, planning to buy 155cm snowboard. What are your thoughts about this snowboard and if the 155cm would suit me.
Best regards, Simon.
Sorry for double post, but I have read your article What are the Snowboarding Skill Levels and im somewhere between level 3 beginner and level 4 intermediate. Because I can actually fully control snowboard, not so confident on higher speeds though. So maybe its not even worth to buy a beginner’s snowboard? Maybe you have some any recommendations on other snowboards?
Simon.
Hi Simon
I think a beginner-intermediate type snowboard could be still be a good idea. But it sounds like you’re certainly not a complete beginner.
In terms of size, I would say something around the 154cm to 156cm mark would be good for you, typically speaking. So a 155cm would be fine.
The Clash makes for a good beginner board – but if you’re trying to improve your control at speed and if you are often in harder snow conditions, then there are better options.
I think you should look at a board that is still easy to ride, so that you can still progress quickly – but one that will take you to a more advanced level. Also, I think something that’s versatile, so that you can move in a few directions as you figure your style and the things you prefer to do.
With all that in mind, I think the following would be good options for you:
~ Capita Outerspace Living
~ GNU Riders Choice
~ Slash Brainstorm (if you can find one – they seem to be all sold out at the stores that I’ve checked)
~ YES Basic
~ YES Typo
Hopefully that gives you a few options to look into.
Great article thanks.
Any advice on a board to progress on. I have been riding intermittently for the last few years. I have now had a couple of weekends in some rather icy conditions (european snow has been BAD) and was struggling with my burton clash. I feel like I want to go faster but on the Clash I am bouncing around and going down some steep icy runs I had virtually no edge hold. What is a good board to step up to from that. I am looking for something that is easy to follow the kids on and also something with better edge hold that I can take on the red runs (black in the US).
I’m not that interested in doing tricks or the park, just having fun on the pistes with the occasional off piste and jumps on the runs, as well as following the kids around when they come to the mountain. I’m 5’11 and 145lbs with a size 9 womens boot. My clash is a 155cm.
Hi Kay
Thanks for your message. The Clash isn’t known for having great edge-hold – so not the best for the icy conditions you’re encountering. Have heard that the European snow has been bad – hope it improves for you soon.
From what you’re describing, I think the following would be good options for you:
YES Emoticon: 152cm
GNU B-Pro: 152cm
Rossignol Diva: 152cm
For your specs I think anything from a 152cm to 154cm is a good length. Snowboard length is more about weight than height these days. I don’t the think the 155cm is too long – it’s doable – but the Clash will be underperforming for you largely due to not being very good in icy conditions.
I think the Roxy Torah Bright and the Rossignol Frenemy would also be good choices for you but I’m concerned that they would be slightly too narrow.
Hope this helps
Thanks for your answer. I think I am in love with the Gnu B-Pro. I am going to try it out in Chamonix in a few weeks time. It is going to snow big this weekend!! A friend has a 155 she is going to let me borrow for a test drive. I always thought a 152 would be a bit short for me considering I am rather tall but skinny.
Hi Kay
Awesome that you will get a chance to test-ride the GNU B-Pro!
Snowboard size is more about weight than height these days (though height is still a factor). I think the 152cm would be a better fit – but see what you think when you try the 155cm. If you really like it, then there’s not reason not to go with it.
Enjoy your trip and I hope you get plenty of snow between now and then!
The trip was brilliant. While I was there it snowed and snowed. Woke up to blue bird at the end. I got to try the gnu b-pro in a 155 and had a blast. My friend is also friendly with a board shop owner who do high end rentals and let us test drive a few boards for dirt cheap. I tried the emoticon and it was fun. He suggested I try a typo 155 which I LOVED. It was so much fun and on a pretty icy ungroomed red run the edge hold was amazing. I was even brave enough to try some big jumps into the powder and I landed them no problem. I also tried the Yes Hel but it is too unforgiving for me in a 155 and there weren’t any 152’s to test. I think I will be buying a typo when I am in the US and will definitely be linking through your site to do it.
Hi Kay
Awesome that your trip went well and that the snow finally came (and them some by the sounds of it).
Also great that you had the opportunity to try a number of great boards. I didn’t even think of mentioning the Typo because it’s a men’s board but it is an awesome board, especially in icy conditions – as you found out. And the only reason it’s sometimes not a good idea to go with a men’s board is that they are often too wide – but I think the 251mm waist width on the Typo 155 would be absolutely fine for you.
Thanks for linking through the site – much appreciated!
So I thought I was sold on the Typo but yesterday I went for a session with some friends and got to try a YES Greats 154. Oh my goodness, that board is possibly the best thing I have ever strapped my feet into. I went faster than I have ever been and even started hitting a few jumps on the sides of the piste and even landing most of them. I even decided to try a huge jump onto an airbag. The edge hold is incredible as well. All I can say about the board is WOW!!!
Hi Kay
Yeah the Greats is a great board!
Not something I would consider a beginners board – but you’re obviously a step up from there by the sounds of it. I get to test the 2018 version of the Greats in a couple of weeks and I can’t wait! Glad you had an awesome time on the Greats.
Hi Nate
Awesome, Awesome site! Just got into snowboarding so I am a true beginner.
How about the Arbor Formula Snowboard for a beginner? I’m 6’0 and 170 pounds. I have a size 12 boot. Any thoughts on this board or any other board for someone with my dimensions?
Thanks
Michael
Hi Michael
The Formula would be ok as a beginners board but not the first that I would recommend. The main reason being that it’s a continuous rocker profile. I prefer beginners to start out on a board with some flat sections or camber sections just to add some stability. Continuous rocker boards can feel quite loose.
The other thing is that it’s a medium flexing board. I prefer to see beginners starting out on something a little bit softer – more of a medium-soft flex.
Check out the link below for some beginner board options.
~ My Top 5 Beginner Snowboards
From that list, I would say that the following sizes would suit you best.
Yes Basic: 156W
Salomon Sight: not really a suitable size there
Capita Horrorscope: 155W or 157W
Ride Agenda: 157W
Rossignol District: 156W
Hope this helps. If you don’t find something there that you like, let me know and I can suggest some other options.
Wow…thanks so much Nate! I’ll take a look at the boards you mentioned and let you know. Thanks so much for your help. Love your website and will recommend to my friends just starting as well! Thanks so much! Michael
Hey Michael
Your very welcome! Thanks for the recommendations.
Hi Nath
Great website which i read with lots of pleasure ever since our last snowboard trip in the south of France a couple of days ago and where I learned my wife (2nd time) and oldest kid (1st time) to snowboard and they love it!
I bought my own board after a two-day-snowboard-trail more than 20 years ago and although this all mountain board appears no to be a beginners board (traditional camber, stiff, 163cm long, directional twin with not-centered stance) I do love it. It has been 8 years since my last trip but I could ride off like I have never stopped! So I really feel you about the advantages of buying over renting.
My wife that really got the virus now as well should only be pushed a little to buy her own board. Your articles will come in really handy.
Thank you for the website and the many years of replying to all the readers. Keep up the great work!
Niek – from Belgium
Hi Niek
Thanks for your message. Really appreciate it.
Glad to hear that your wife and kid are getting into snowboarding – now you might be able to do more trips! 🙂
Hey. I would really like to know your opinion about Magne traction snowboard for me, as a beginner? I would also like to show you a picture of it, but is seems that I m not able right here.anyway it s a Rough model from 2014.
Hi Otilia
Thanks for your message.
A board with Magne-traction isn’t necessarily bad for a beginner. But if you aren’t going to be riding in conditions that are icy a lot, then you don’t need it. However, if you ride in conditions that are icy a lot of the time, then, even as a beginner, you’ll appreciate it.
However, I’ve never heard of a Rossignol Rough – and when I looked it up I couldn’t find anything out about it – so I’m not sure if it’s otherwise an appropriate board for a beginner. Are you sure it’s called a “Rough”? If you can give me any more details about the board, I can let you know whether it would be good for a beginner.
Hope this helps
I am considering the Nitro cinema, do you have any bindings recommendations? I am getting a full set including boots etc. Of course affordable options for a beginner will be top priority!
Also, are there differences between men’s and women’s boards/bindings/boots? My girlfriend is thinking of getting one as well after I forwarded your article and was wondering if she can take the same equipment as myself but fitted to her size of course. Disclaimer: she has never snowboarded before but is keen to take up the sport.
As always, appreciate your advice Nate!
For bindings and boots I would check out the following links as a place to get started. Most of the boards and bindings there are reasonably priced and if you can find last seasons, then you should be able to get a considerable discount, especially with the Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales on at the moment.
>>Top 5 Men’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top 7 Men’s Beginner Boots
For your girlfriend I would definitely get female specific gear. There are a number of reasons for this.
For boards, men’s boards are usually too wide for women’s feet and there are some other reasons why women’s boards are better.
For bindings. Women’s specific bindings are made to fit a women’s body better – one of those things is a shorter highback to avoid calf bite which happens more often for women.
For boots, men’s and women’s feet tend to be shaped differently and her feet/ankles/calves will fit better in a women’s specific boot.
Check out the links below for a good place to start looking.
>>Top 5 Womens Snowboards
>>Top 5 Womens Bindings
>>Top 5 Womens Boots
Hi Nate this is a great informative website! Thanks for sharing your expertise! I am a beginner who has snowboarded twice so far. For this winter I am planning to buy a snowboard set – can you advise if the shoes, binders and board will fit even if the brands are different? Also I saw your recommendations for beginner snowboards – do you have any cheaper options as I am not sure of my investment but absolutely agree with your article on why buy and not rent!
Hi Oliver
Most brands work together. The only think you have to watch out for is Burton’s “EST” bindings. EST bindings will only work on Burton boards that use the ‘channel system’. All Burton EST bindings also come in a “Re:Flex” version which are compatible with other brand’s boards. So the only real thing you have to look out for is to not get the EST version of Burton bindings unless you are also getting a Burton board with the Channel system.
To get boards cheaper the best bet is to look out for past season models. These usually go for way cheaper but are often the same or very similar boards to the current season’s model. With Black Friday sales coming up (some already started) it’s a good time to get even better deals on past season’s gear. I would definitely go for past season’s gear if you are on a tight budget.
The links below are for some stores that offer past season’s models. Check that out to see if you can find what you’re looking for. If there’s any gear in there that you’re interested in that aren’t on my Beginner list, let me know and I can recommend whether or not I think they are suitable for a beginner.
>>evo outlet store
>>the-house outlet store
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate! I have perused and am considering the below – can you let me know what will be my best choice? I will be testing my new board at Hokkaido, Japan!
1) Alibi Snowboards Sicter 150
2) Rome Butterknife Reverse Camber Snowboard, 2015
3) Rome Reverb Positive Camber Snowboard, 2015
4) NITRO PRIME SNOWBOARD 2016
5) NITRO CINEMA SNOWBOARD 2016
Hi Oliver
I think the Rome Butterknife and the Nitro Cinema are your best bets out of those ones. And possibly the Alibi Sicter but I’m really unfamiliar with Alibi snowboards.
I’d say no to the Nitro Prime and the Rome Reverb.
The Prime has a completely flat camber profile. I like to see some rocker in the profile or else it can get catchy when linking turns – also if you get lots of powder in Hokkaido you’ll appreciate that rocker. I know the Prime is touted as a beginner board and it’s probably fine but I am always weary of that profile for beginners.
The Reverb is a Traditional Camber snowboard. Trad camber is usually not the best for beginners. Again it can be catchy and Traditional Camber snowboards are usually faster and more aggressive. And again, if you get powder in Japan it’s not going to be the best in those conditions.
So yeah, out of those I’d say the Butterknife or the Cinema. You could also check out the link below for more beginner snowboard options.
>>My Top 5 Beginner Snowboards
Hope this helps and have an awesome time in Hokkaido!
Hi Nate, how about the GARAGE ROCKER SNOWBOARD 2016? Will this be a good option for a beginner as well among my choices? If so, do I go for a 148, 152, 154 or 156? I am 173 cm tall and weighs 62 kg. My guess is 152? Thanks!
Hi Oliver
The Garage Rocker is a great beginner option. One of the better beginner options around, IMO. Unfortunately Rome aren’t making it in a 2017 model. If you have found a 2016 model then definitely go for. I highly recommend it as a beginner board.
In terms of size I’d actually go for the 148. It’s a good idea to size down a bit when you are starting out. But just to be short that the width will be ok for you, can you let me know your boot size? Or if you don’t have boots yet, if you can let me know your foot length. I think the 148 but if you can give me that information I can give you a more informed recommendation.
Hi Nate I measured 26.5cm which I think should be US8.5? Thanks for your advice as always!
Hi Oliver
The 148 should be fine width-wise, assuming the boots you get are US9.5 or below.
Thanks for your advice! I’d have that locked down as my new board then! I am also looking for some ladies board as you previously advised for my partner. Are these good options? And can you get a girls’ board if the length and width are right?
1) ROSSIGNOL
TESLA AMPTEK SNOWBOARD – WOMEN’S 2016
2) NITRO
DESIRE SNOWBOARD – BLEM – GIRLS’ 2016
Hi Oliver
The Rossi Tesla is a great beginners board and one I would definitely recommend for beginners.
I don’t really know the Nitro Desire but just took a quick look at the stats/info. I think it could work as a beginner deck but probably not as easy to ride as the Tesla. But this is from limited knowledge on that board. No reason you can’t use a girls board if the size is right and it’s suitable as a beginner board. I don’t know that the desire is ideal but I think it would be doable for a beginner.
Hi Nate, apologies that I keep inundating you with questions but I saw another board and at the board length you recommended – will it be good for a beginner?:
1) VANDAL SNOWBOARD – BIG BOYS’ 2016
Lastly are you aware of any reliable snowboard shops in Hokkaido? Thanks!
Hi Oliver
No problem. It’s what I do!
I’m not that familiar with boys snowboards. I only really deal with men’s and women’s so I couldn’t say for sure with the K2 Vandal Big Boys but just based on looking at the specs quickly, it looks like it would be an easy board to learn on. My only concern would be whether it might even be too soft a flex – but like I say I don’t really know.
I’ve never been to Japan (unfortunately, because I’m dying to get out there!) and I don’t deal with any stores in Japan so unfortunately I can’t help on that one.
Hi Nate, thanks I have gotten addicted to reading and checking up new boards! I also read up your updated article on beginners’ boards and recently saw these retailing as inexpensive packages online – are they any good? I am considering as these will be easier to procure rather than board, bindings and boots separately. Thanks!
Men (comes with Salomon Rhythm Snowboard Bindings Black/Green Medium and Rossignol 2015 Excite RSP Domes Snowboard boots:
1) M3 Filter
2) Rossignol District Amptek 2016
Ladies (comes with M3 Solstice Women’s Snowboard Bindings White Medium and Salomen Pearl Boa Women’s snowboard boots):
1) M3 Halo
2) Rossignol Gala 2016
It can definitely be addictive!
Salomon Rhythm aren’t the greatest bindings in the world but they could work for a beginner. You’d probably be wanting to upgrade fairly quickly though as you progress. I don’ have any experience with M3 gear or with Rossignol boots. The Rossi District is a great choice as a beginner board though.
The Rossi Gala is a good beginner option too for your girlfriend and the Salomon Pearl Boa will definitely work as beginner boots – and the Boa system is an easy lacing system to use. Again, I’m not familiar with M3 gear.
How about the FLOW SILHOUETTE SNOWBOARD – WOMEN’S 2016? Will that be better than the ROSSIGNOL TESLA AMPTEK SNOWBOARD – WOMEN’S 2016? Thanks Nate!
Hi Oliver
The Flow Silhouette is definitely a suitable beginners board and would have been number 6 on the list of women’s beginner snowboards if the list was that long. Here is that list again.
~ Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
But the Tesla is a great option too. If you are debating between the 2, then choose the one that has the best size available for her.
Thanks Nate! And what are your views on these? I am looking at shorter boards as you advised above – provided the width fits of course
1) Rome Label Rocker Snowboard, 145cm, 2015
2) Salomon Pulse Hybrid Camber Snowboard, 145cm, 2015
3) Rome Mini Agent Rocker Hybrid Camber Snowboard, 146cm, 2015
Hi Oliver
The Pulse will be to narrow for you.
I wouldn’t say the other 2 would be bad choices but I think your best sizes are 147 to 149 and also with the width, I think that you are safer to go with something more like the 248mm on the Rome Garage Rocker you were looking at. So I think that the Label Rocker would be out too.
Any reason why you’re looking at other options other than the Garage Rocker? I think that the Garage Rocker would be a great board for you and that the 148 Garage Rocker would be the perfect size.
Hi Nate
great website!
I am considering buy new snowboard set and looking for beginner-intermediate level.
l like YES basic one but for 2015-2016 model. any different from 2016-2017 ?
Also, i’m not sure about boots and bindings.
Could you recommend me some models from year 2015-2016 ? The latest models are too pricey for me.
By the way, I can’t decide between 155cm or 158cm board length, any advice? (i’m 173cm and 68kgs)
Thanks a lot
Mag
Hi Mag
There’s very little difference between the 2015-16 and 2016-17 model YES Basic so you can definitely go for the past year model. Definitely go with the 155cm. The 158cm would be too long for you. In fact your choice would be between the 152cm and the 155cm. The 152cm would probably be the best bet if you were an absolute beginner but if you are approaching that intermediate level, then the 155cm is a good choice.
Check out the following links for some good beginner binding and boot options. The bindings one has been updated for the 2016-17 season but I’m still to update the boots one. Most of the bindings will likely be suitable in the 2015-16 model but if you’re not sure just send me another message and I can let you know if I think the one you are thinking about getting is a good choice.
>>Top 7 Beginner Boots
>>Top 5 Beginner Bindings
Thanks for the reply,
I like Burton Moto and Burton Custom for 2015-2016 model,
and YES Basic 155cm for the board. What do you think?
also my shoes size is US8 and i’m note sure about the size of the binding, S or M?
Again, thanks a lot
Mag
Hi Prasertsak
That Board, Binding, and Boot combo sounds like it will work very well for you. When you go for the Custom make sure you get the “Reflex” model. Burton bindings come in two variations – a “Reflex” model and an “EST” model. The “EST” model is just for Burton boards with the channel system. The ReFlex model will fit on all other boards – so the Reflex model will fit on the YES Basic.
In terms of size for the bindings I think both will fit. Your boot size is likely to be a size 7.5 or a sie 8.0 (sometimes snowboard boots are a half size down) so you’d fit on the small – but you’ll also fit on a medium – and the medium will be fine for that board too.
Hi Nate!
I have considered to get me a snowboard and I used to stand on it alot in my early days before I went for skiing instead so I have been mixing as I stated with downhill skiing , then snowboard, then downhill skiing again and now I want to have the option to go on snowboarding. So I would say I’m not a beginner, but as it is about 5 years since I last rode a snowboard I might need a beginner one afterall though I might consider getting something for advanced riders. I’m 200 cm and about 95-100 kg and I use size 46-47 in shoes (that’s 12 or 13 in US I think) what would you recommend for me to get? Budget isn’t really an issue and I really like to get pro stuff.
I jump on jumps as much as I can whenever I dare, but also like to ride fast down hill so something that fits for both is what I need.
Any tips? 🙂
Regards
Allan
Hi Allan
Thanks for your message. If you like to do jumps and ride fast, then you’ll probably want to get something that is a bit above a beginner board. Or at least a board that might be ok for beginners but also can progress past that beginner phase.
In terms of length, I would say that you’ll want something around a 164 to 166. If you were a beginner I would say more like a 161 to 163 but I think if you are looking to ride fast – and because you aren’t likely to be in that beginner phase for long by the sounds of it – then that extra length will assist in your stability when riding fast.
In terms of width, you’ll need to go for a wide board with size 12/13 boots. Anything from a 260mm waist width up to a 270mm waist width would work well.
If you want something with a true twin shape (good for riding switch, doing spins etc if you want to do that kind of thing) then I’d say something like an all-mountain freestyle or aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle board would be good – you can check out my top 5’s for each at the links below.
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
>>Top 5 Aggressive-All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Just a warning that the aggressive-all-mountain freestyle snowbaords aren’t really suitable for beginners at all and that would be a steep learning curve.
Perhaps the following would be the best bet of this lot.
>>Never Summer Proto X Type Two 164cm (waist width 267)
The Proto Type Two is an awesome jumper and good with speed but not as good with speed as some other boards.
If you’d prefer a directional board that is awesome with speed and still really good over jumps – just maybe not as good with jumps – then an all-mountain or aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle board would be a better option.
>>Top 10 All-Mountain Snowboards
>>Top 6 Aggressive-All-Mountain Snowboards
Just like with the above, the agressive-all-mountain will be more difficult to get started on.
Hope this helps.
Hey Nate,
Sorry to be a pain, I have decided to go for the burton custom bindings. I have size UK 9 (US 10) nike vapen boots which look like they would fit both the medium and large bindings. Which size would you recommend?
Thanks again
Hey Carl
I’m also a size US 10 and I’ve ridden with both medium and large Burton bindings in various boots and find that they both work fine but I prefer the mediums only just. And even though, you’ll probably have no trouble with either for board width, the mediums will definitely fit on any board you choose. So I’d go for the mediums if you have an option of medium and large – but if you can only find the large in a good price, then they will work fine too.
Brilliant cheers Nate, I will have a look at them,
Thanks a lot for your help,
Carl
Hey Nate,
Great info.
Iv been on one previous snowboard holiday where I spent a couple of weeks on the mountain, this was about a year and a half ago where I borrowed a board. I’m going back this year so decided to purchase my first board, I picked the DC ply 2016 but I’m not sure I have made the right choice, are you familiar with this board and what are your thoughts on it?
Cheers carl
Hey Carl
The Ply isn’t the ideal beginners board. Will be harder to learn on than some. Not the worst to learn on either but there are better beginner options out there. If it’s not that easy to return, then you could stick with it – but it’s going to be a slightly steeper learning curve. If it’s easy to return, then you could check out the link below for some great beginner options.
>>Beginner Snowboards by Beginner Rating
Hey Nate,
Thanks for the reply.
Unfortunately I ordered it from abroad so will have to look into the shipping costs to send it back, but I have a feeling it will cost me a fair bit, so wouldn’t be worth while sending it to them.
If only I would of found this site before jumping straight in.
Cheers
Carl
Yeah, likely to cost a bit to ship back. Best bet might be to hang onto it and see how you go with it. If it feels too difficult to ride or you don’t like the feel of it, you could potentially try to sell second hand and get something else.
Yeah sounds like a good idea, suppose I should give it a go before I right it off. Is there any specific binding you would recommend that you think would maybe make my learning curve a bit easier with the ply?
Only problem I have is I’m on a pretty tight budget hence the reason I jumped in with the ply.
Cheers
Hey Carl
I’d check out my list of beginner bindings in the link below. There are some really reasonably priced bindings there, especially #5, #4 and #1, and they’ve all been chosen for how suitable they are for beginners.
>>Snowboarding Profiles Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Bindings
If you can try to get the 2015/16 season versions, you should be able to get them even cheaper than the prices shown on that page.
Hey Nate,
Great info guide above.
Looking at getting a Rossignol Sultan 160cm (i am 180cm tall) for my first board (pretty cheap) would this suit for me as a beginner ?, i have boarded before, but no fancy stuff, just weaving my way down the slopes.
i have picked up a pair of boots and was told that my toes should be touching the end when standing up and when i drop into boarding stance my toes just rub the end. Is this correct ?
Cheers
Adam
Hey Adam
In terms of your boots. Yeah they should be just touching when your toes are straight. The boots shouldn’t bend your toes up.
In terms of the board, I’m thinking this board length may be too long – however, length is more based on weight than height these days. If you can let me know your weight I can let you know if I think that size would be suitable or not.
In terms of the Sultan as a beginner board. It’s not going to be the easiest board to learn on out there. It won’t be the hardest either. It’s stiffer than I would normally recommend for beginners – though this is only based on some old reviews I’ve seen. I think they stopped producing this board a few years back. Which is likely why it’s so cheap. Certainly the price is right for a beginner. Also it sounds like it has a traditional camber profile which isn’t ideal for beginners.
Definitely better options for beginners but if you’re on a really tight budget, then you could go with this. However, you’re going to make it really hard on yourself if the board is too long. Let me know your weight and I can let you know if this is an ok size for you.
Nate,
Cheers for the advise, i will keep searching as i have a bit of time before i head to Japan at Xmas. My weight is 86kgs.
Regards,
Adam
Going to Japan – Nice!
I’d say that 160cm is probably about right for you when you are more advanced (for all mountain riding) but I would try for something around 157cm to begin with.
Hope this helps. You can also check out my list of what I consider to be the top 5 beginner snowboards at the link below.
>>Snowboarding Profiles Top 5 Men’s Beginner Snowboards
Nate,
Thanks for the advice. Have come across a Nidecker prime 158cm thats in good condition with bindings also.
Think this would be a better fit.
Cheers,
Adam
Hey Adam
I’m not familiar with the Nidecker Prime but that would be a better length for sure.
Hello Nate!
This is an awesome post, thank you so much for breaking it down. I’m 5 ft and 110 pounds. I’ve gone boarding twice and have been renting but I can’t remember what the rental guys places have been giving me! I’ve picked sniwboarding up fairly recently though, I’m able to use both heel and toe edge.
Anyway, the store nearby has boards for incredibly cheap, and I saw a 140 cm Burton Genie. Would this be acceptable for me?
Thank you so much!
Hey Jo
Thanks for your message. The Burton Genie is a great beginner option and the 140cm will be a good size for you. I assume that it is the 2015 or earlier version (since they now make the Genie in a 138cm and a 142cm for the 2016 version – but the 2015 version had a 140cm). Which is no problem at all – there weren’t any major changes to that board between 2015 and 2016 – apart from the sizes and the graphic.
Hi Nate,
I am very new to snowboarding and I am hoping you can help me with my situation. I went snowboarding for the first time once last year did a lesson for the day and it went well, but I am still very much a beginner I decided to buy a board on liquidationsports.com I got a board and a boots and bindings package. The board said that it was for beginners. It is a Rossignol Accelerator M series. The bindings that they sent me were the very old bindings from the 90s that are considered the “click in” bindings. I don’t know why they were even still selling them but thats what I ended up with. So I did another lesson this weekend and it was my first time with the new board. I felt very unsteady on it, went down a very, very small learning area and even though it was small, my board picked up speed very fast and there were people at the bottom so I tried to stop myself and fell. I ended up hurting the side and top of my foot. Only my left (front) foot was clicked into my bindings and that is the foot I hurt. I did go down a few more times, but I felt very unsteady and the pain in my foot was making it too difficult to continue riding so I had to stop for the day which was disappointing. When I was riding, I felt very unsteady and I felt like the board was causing me to move way too fast. I’m trying to figure out if the problem is my board. When I did research, I felt like my board was not a true “beginner” board because I think it is a traditional camber? I also don’t know if part of the reason I hurt my foot was due to the lack of support with the bindings they sent me? I am frustrated because I didn’t want to spend a lot of money and was trying to be cost effective by buying a board, but now I feel like neither the board or bindings are a good fit and I should look for both a new board and new bindings. Do you think the board I have and the bindings could have been the cause of my issues?
Hi Colleen
Sorry to hear that your 2nd snowboarding experience wasn’t as positive as your first.
Picking up too much speed could be a factor of both how you’re riding and the gear you’re riding with. I’m sure your instructor taught you this but try riding across the slope rather Rossi actually make really good beginner decks but this might be trad camber because back in the day everything was trad camber so it may have been considered a good beginner deck back then.
It’s crazy if they’re still selling bindings from the 90’s! But in saying all that people did learn to snowboard in the 90’s I guess.
Wish I could be more help.
If you do end up replacing your gear you can check out the following posts to get some good beginner gear. But I would maybe try another with your current gear to see how it goes. It would be a bummer to have to get new gear if you just bought some.
~My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
~My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboard Bindings (scroll down past the top 5 men’s bindings at the top of the post)
Hi Nate,
I’ve been snowboarding twice now and was wondering if you could help me out with sizing for a beginner board. I weigh 130 pounds, am 5’10 in height, and wear shoe size 10 (however I’ve noticed with snowboard boots 10.5/11 is necessary to avoid hurting my big toe). Would a 150/151 cm board be too big for my weight given my height and do I need a wide board? Thanks!
Nick
Hi Nick
Thanks for your message.
It’s odd that you need to go up in size for your snowboard boots – usually it’s the other way around. But if your toe is hurting in smaller boots then you’ll need to go for the bigger size as you mention. For 10.5/11 boots your on the cusp and usually you will need to go for a wide or mid-wide depending on the brand of snowboard. Check out the link below for a more detailed discussion about snowboard width including charts.
~ Snowboard width sizing
In terms of length I think a 150 would be fine for you. I would put you on a 152cm board as a more advanced rider. Beginners should always start with a shorter board so anything from a 147cm to 150cm would be a good starting length for you in my opinion. See below for more on length.
~ Snowboard length sizing
Hope this helps – let me know if you need any more clarification.
Thanks so much Nate!
You definitely helped clear things up. I think I’ll try to go for a 150 board since it seems like it would be harder to get a mid wide in smaller sizes. Thanks again!
Hi Nate,
So I am a beginner and haven’t had much time to get out in the last couple years. I am contemplating buying a used board (Sultan Rossignol 150) and binders for about $80, and having it tuned up and calibrated (as it has various nicks and scratches and the binder needs screws) for a total of about $140-160. Is it wise to do that or buy a completely new items that is about a total of 4 times the cost. I can typically only make it out about 3-5 times a year.
Thanks,
Fez
He Fez
Thanks for the message. It all depends on your own personal opinion as to how much you are willing to spend on gear. You certainly don’t necessarily have to buy new gear. The most important thing is to get gear that is the right size, the right fit and is suited to your ability level and riding style.
That said, you can typically get last season’s gear fairly cheap (and it’s still brand new gear that hasn’t been used). That’s always a good option in my opinion. If the board and bindings you are looking at right now are suitable for you then there’s no reason you shouldn’t get it if it ends up in good condition after you’ve had it refurbished.
But also check out the links below to see if you can find some good deals on last season’s gear.
~ evo.com outlet store
~ the-house.com outlet store
Out of curiosity, what year is the snowboard you are looking at? If it’s only a couple of years old then the difference between it and a new board won’t be too much, but if it’s really old then there will be quite a difference as technology does keep getting better. Also, can you let me know your height and weight so I can recommend the best size for you too because that’s also really important to get right.
Thanks Nate, I appreciate the feedback and quick response.
So I took a look at the sites you mentioned. I am 5′ 7″ and around 185 lbs. Based on some of the reviews I saw you through your site, I have narrowed down to a few:
1. Rome Garage Rocker Snowboard w/ Gnu Front Door Bindings ($275) – these are also paired with various bindings, not sure which is best binding to use.
2. Rossignol District Amptek Wide Snowboard w/ K2 Indy Bindings ($254)
3. Rome Factory Rocker Snowboard 2015 + Ride LX Snowboard Bindings ($281)
Is there any of these or something else you would recommend?
Cheers,
Fez
Hi Nate,
Also forgot to mention, I usually wear a size 8 or so in mens shoes, not exactly sure what that translates into, but wasn’t sure if I would need a wide board or if that is for people with larger feet/boot size.
The more I think about it, I would rather get something new, that is clean and that I can then sell later.
Cheers,
Fez
Hi Nate,
I am 5′ 7″ and weigh about 185 lbs. My normal shoe size is 8, give or take depending on brand. I am thinking I need a board that will be anywhere between 150-156. and bindings that are size medium. Is there a combination you recommend.
I did check out the sites you mentioned, which was great, except I pretty much couldn’t find bindings in the size I think I should have. Any recommendations would be much appreciated.
Cheers,
Fez
Hi Hafez
I think based on your physical characteristics that you should be looking at something around a 152 to 155 ideally. I put you on a 157-158 for when you are a more advanced rider but as a beginner you should always go with a shorter deck. However, I think that a 150 would be too short for you, even as a beginner.
I definitely wouldn’t go with a wide board. Wide boards are typically for anyone with around a 10.5 boot size (US Men’s Sizes) and above. So I would cross the Rossi District Wide board off the list.
However, I did notice they have a Rossi District 155cm (normal width) at the-house.com in their outlet store. I think that would be a good option. They’ve also got the Rossi Retok and Trickstick which would also be good options. They have a Retox in a 153 which would be a great size and the Trickstick in the 154 which is also a great size for you.
The Garage Rocker is a great beginner deck so that’s definitely a good option for you. The 154cm would be the best size for you.
For bindings.
I saw the K2 Lien FS in the evo outlet store. They are great for beginners but they only have large size. I think if your shoe size is 8 then your boot size will be 8 or smaller, probably smaller so I’d think medium is the best way to go with K2’s. Not all binding sizes are even so if you want to see how to match your snowboard boots to bindings for size check out the link below.
~ How to Choose the Right Size Snowboard Bindings
They do have Burton Custom’s too – which I have rated as the best men’s beginner bindings – they have size small (which in burton bindings would fit your size assuming your boots are going to be US size 8 men’s or less).
They also have K2 Sonics which would be a great choice. And they have mediums for those too.
Those would be my recommendations.
Thanks Nate, you are a big help and I appreciate the quick replies.
Best,
Fez
This really helped me. I’m 15 and I decided I want to try snowboarding but I don’t know what to look for. This post was really helpful. Thanks!
Hey Cory.
You’re very welcome. Glad this was helpful and hope you enjoy your first snowboarding season!
Hey Nate….
seems nice and simple and explained well….
I am looking for my 2 grandkids…….girl age 12 and boy 10….neither is a heavy weight….normal size kids…
both play all the sports and stated late last winter wit rental boards and fell in love with it…my question is..
what you said to look for in beginner boards…..does it apply to kids as well as adults…??
thanks,
Tom in NH
Hey Tom
I have to admit I don’t know that much about kids boards. But I do know that you can get kids versions of some adults boards and I take it they have similar characteristics.
And also I would say that things like a softer flex, a stable feeling board, one that doesn’t easily catch an edge etc is going to easier for a kid to learn on the same as it is for an adult. So yeah I’d say all of these things would also apply to kids – and, as far as I know, you should be able to find kids boards with these same features.
Hope this answers your question.
I’ve always thought a grow-into board was a good idea. I had no idea it slows down the whole learning process! AHH!
Hey Doug – yeah I used to think the same but in the end you slow down your progression and by the time you need to upgrade and get something back on your beginner board selling it second hand it makes sense progression-wise and financially.
Think of it like trying to learn how to drive an 18 wheeler truck and trailer before you’ve even driven a car!
Great article! I have a nephew who wants to start snowboarding and I will refer him to your site. Thanks for the great info!
Hey Frank – thanks for stopping by. Glad your nephew is getting into snowboarding and hope this post/site can be helpful for him