Below is what I consider to be the top 5 beginner snowboards for women currently on the market. Or more accurately now the Top 10.
This list has been updated for the 2018-19 season.
There have been a couple of subtle changes to the rating system for this list, compared to last year's list - for details on those changes refer to the bottom of the post.
As per Snowboarding Profiles Tradition, each board will be given a score out of 100. Note that the scores reflect how suitable the board is for a beginner – not the overall performance of the board.
O.K. let’s get into the top 10!
BEGINNER BOARD #10=
Board: Burton Hideaway
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 90.5/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-intermediate
Style of Board: Freeride
Flex: Soft (2/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
The Hideaway is an easy going, catch-free ride that makes it quick and easy to progress on.
It's also a freeride board, which is rare for a board this soft. So, it's great for beginners who think they are going to get into riding off-groomer and backcountry in their future or for the beginner to intermediate rider who wants to explore the not-so-beaten paths, without having to do it on a stiff aggressive board.
This board is replacing the Burton Feather in Burton's line - and is essentially just an evolution of that board with some minor changes.
Learn More About the Hideaway in the Video Below
The video below is for the 2018 Feather - but the Hideaway is essentially an evolution of the Feather renamed (there are some subtle differences). Once I find a 2019 video I'll post it here.
Burton Hideaway Score Breakdown
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Versatility | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Shape & Stance | 2.0 | 2/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 90.5/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #10=
Board: GNU Chromatic
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 90.5/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain-Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
If you're looking for a board that's great for leaning and progressing on but is also awesome in hard/icy conditions, should you experience them regularly, then the Chromatic is a great option.
It's a very versatile board that's great on the mountain in the resort and in the park.
Not the cheapest on this list, but if you've got a decent budget this is definitely an option.
It's a looser feeling ride, which can make one-footing it off the lift a little squirrelly until you get used to it, but otherwise it's a great beginner option, especially if you ride hard/icy conditions often.
Learn More About the Chromatic in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Chromatic
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 4.0 | 16/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 90.5/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #10=
Board: YES Emoticon
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 90.5/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Advanced
Style of Board: All-Mountain Freestyle
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
This is basically the ideal beginner board for anyone who encounters hard/icy snow conditions often – so if you’re on the East (Ice) Coast of North America, for example.
It’s got a great balance of being versatile but also offering a fast progression. It’s easy to ride but it will last you for the long term in terms of your progression and your style.
And of course, it’s not just for icy conditions – my wife owns this board and loves it in all conditions.
This is essentially the women’s version of the men’s YES Basic.
Check out the video for more on the YES Emoticon
The Emoticon’s Score Breakdown
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 4.5 | 18/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
Price | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 90.5/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #9
Board: Rossignol Meraki
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 91.5/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-advanced
Style of Board: Jib/Park
Flex: Soft (3/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
The Meraki is new for Rossignol this year and is the women's equivalent of the men's Sawblade.
It's a super easy going ride that really limits any chances of catching an edge. It's soft flexing and really easy to maneuver at slower speeds. All things that you want in a beginner board.
It's the ideal option for any beginner who encounters hard/icy conditions often. And it's also great for anyone who sees freestyle/park riding in their future as it's somethign that will be easy to start out in there too.
Learn More About the Meraki in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Meraki
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Versatility | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL | 91.5/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #8
Board: Ride Rapture
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (2/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
The Ride Rapture may not be that versatile – it’s definitely freestyle oriented and it’s not going to stay with you your whole snowboarding life (though if you get into park riding, it’s definitely something you could keep as your park board) – but it is something you can progress very quickly on.
It’s got a nice soft flex and is an easy, catch-free ride.
Check out the Video for More on the Rapture
The Rapture's Score Breakdown
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Versatility | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #7
Board: Burton Stylus
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Beginner
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (2/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
The Burton Stylus (formerly called the Genie) is one of those boards that will accelerate your progression – so if you’re looking to improve as quickly as possible and are happy with having to upgrade once you’ve upped your skill level and/or found your preferred style, then this is going to be a great choice.
Also great for anyone foreseeing a future riding freestyle/park.
Check out the Video for More on the Stylus
The video below is for the 2018 Genie - but the Stylus is basically the Genie renamed. Once I find a 2019 video I'll post it here.
Score Breakdown for the Stylus
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Versatility | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #6
Board: Arbor Poparazzi
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92.0/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-advanced
Style of Board: All-Mountain-Freestyle
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
The Poparazzi is that little bit of a step up from the Arbor Ethos (see #3 on this list). It's virtually the same as that board but just a little stiffer, which makes it a great option for heavier riders and those who have some time under the mountain under their belt but still need an easy going catch-free ride to progress on. Still beginner, but not absolute beginner.
For a contunuos rocker profile, it's not as loose as you would think due to the system rocker that Arbor uses.
But it's still on the looser side, so it's going to have that little bit of a squirrelly feel, coming off the lift one-footed. But that's something that you get used to and also helps to make the board really catch-free, when linking turns.
Learn More About the Poparazzi in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Poparazzi
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 4.5 | 18/20 |
Stability | 4.5 | 18/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #5
Board: Rossignol Myth
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 94/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
And coming in at #5 is basically the perfect beginner’s snowboard – the Rossignol Myth and apart from versatility, basically gets a perfect score.
You’ll be able to progress super-fast on this board and it will really boost your confidence.
The only downside is that it’s not that versatile. It’s a freestyle board, so if you plan on riding in the park, then this will be a great option to keep as your park board. But even if you don’t plan riding the park, this is one of those boards that will just get you riding better, fast – just be willing to upgrade at some point later on, if you get into more all-mountain/freeride type riding.
On top of all that, this is the equal lowest-priced board in this list – so if you’re on a budget or don’t want to invest too much, then this also is a great option.
For more on the Myth check out the video below
Score Breakdown for the Myth
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 5.0 | 10/10 |
Versatility | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 94/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #4
Board: K2 First Lite
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 95/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (2/10)
*FAST PROGRESSION
Whilst not being that versatile when it comes to ability level (you’ll need to upgrade eventually), the K2 First Lite is really versatile when it comes to keeping your options open for the type of riding you will naturally flow towards. You can go anywhere and ride any style on this board.
But that’s not it’s real strength as a beginner board – it’s real strength lies in the fact that it’s easy to ride, catch free and confidence inspiring – so you can progress really fast on this board – and have a lot of fun in the process.
Check out the video for more on the First Lite
Score Breakdown for the First Lite
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 4.5 | 9/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 4.0 | 4/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 95/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #3
Board: Arbor Ethos
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 95.0/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain-Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
The little sister of the Poparazzi (see #6 above), the Ethos is practially the perfect board to start snowboarding on.
It's catch-free, easy to initiate turns on and super maneuverable at slower speeds.
It's a little on the looser side, which is a plus for initiating turns but can sometimes make coming off the lift a bit more challenging, but it's something you get used to.
Otherwise this is pretty much the ultimate board to get your snowbaording journey started on.
Learn More About the Ethos in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Ethos
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 4.5 | 18/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 5.0 | 10/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 5.0 | 5/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 95/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #2
Board: Nitro Lectra
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 96.0/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (3/10)
**FAST PROGRESSION
And the #2 board in this list - or I should probably say the 1st equal, is Nitro's Lectra.
This board has everything you want for your first board. It's easy to turn, easy to ride, maneuverable at slow speeds, makes it really unlikely to catch an edge and is really versatile, so it can take you into whatever style you naturally progress towards.
It's also the equal cheapest on this list, so you won't have to make too much of an investment getting your first board.
Learn More About the Lectra in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Lectra
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 5.0 | 10/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 4.0 | 4/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 96/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #1
Board: Rossignol Gala
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Beginner Board Rating Score: 96/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (3/10)
**FAST PROGRESSION
The Rossignol Gala is the perfect balance of fast progression and versatility.
It’s an all mountain board and can take you into any style you naturally flow into – but it will get you there fast – it’s forgiving, catch-free, has easy maneuverability and is just a really easy going ride.
All of that and it's also the equal cheapest on this list (along with #2 and #5) so it won't break the bank either.
Check out the video for more on the Gala
Score Breakdown for the Gala
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Flex | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Stability | 5.0 | 20/20 |
Turning Ease | 5.0 | 25/25 |
Price | 5.0 | 10/10 |
Versatility | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Shape & Stance | 4.0 | 4/5 |
Base | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL | 96/100 |
Over to You
So there you have it – Snowboarding Profiles’ Top 10 Beginner Snowboards for Women for the 2018/19 season. Hopefully this has helped with your research and helped to narrow down your search.
Often models don't change that much from year to year so if you can find a 2018 model, it will likely be close enough to the 2019 model but you can get it cheaper, if available. For the latest model check out the links under each board above. For past year's models check out the links below to see if they still have any left.
>>Snowboards at the evo outlet store
>>Past Season Snowboards at backcountry
>>Snowboards at The-House Outlet Store
Changes to this year’s Top Women’s Beginner List
There were some bigger changes between the 2016-17 and 2017-18 lists.
The changes this year (2018-19) are more subtle and just some small tweaks really.
Adjusted Flex Rating Scores
Previously I was awarding 5/5 for any flex that was up to 4/10 in terms of stiffness. For 2018-19 I have given subtly more points to boards with 2/10 or 3/10 flex (rarely does anything rate 1/10) compared to boards with 4/10 flex.
This is a subtle change but reflects my desire to make this a list of boards that are the best for beginners/learning on. Whereas previously I put some emphasis on boards that would be suitable for more advanced riding as well as beginners.
The new scoring is to reflect that the softer flexing boards (2/10 or 3/10) are easier to learn on/ride than something that's closer to Medium (4/10).
High-End Beginner/Intermediate Boards
For the 2017-18 list, I included a number of boards that were not as good for those just starting out and were more suitable for those who had a bit of experience (high-end beginner to low-end intermediate).
As with the flex rating scores, this list is now designed to purely cater to beginner riders (though some boards will still be good to progress to a more advanced stage on). I will be creating a new list for high-end beginner to intermediate riders, looking for a board.
Great information on snowboards! I’ve always wanted to do this. And now with this information you have for me I can go out and buy my first board! I hope I don’t break my face! 🙂 I’m a beginner so if you will, leave a reply as to what you suggest for me. I’m 57, 5’7 and weigh 180.
I’m old but just last year I was doing cage fighting and working out with boxers as well. So don’t let the age fool you!
Great website!
Rick
Hey Rick – thanks so much for stopping by – it’s never to late to start snowboarding if you’re in good shape as it definitely sounds like you are!
At 5’7 and 180lbs I would put you on a 157 if you were more experienced but a smaller board is better for a beginner so I’d say anything between a 152cm and 156cm for length. Check this out for more on length.
The Rome Tour 156cm board would be a good fit – a great beginner board (check out the my top 5 beginner boards for men here). On the long side for you as a beginner but you would fit within the weight range that the board is designed for well. Some of the other options in that list would be unsuitable for a 180lb rider in the 153 to 156 length range. I think that would be the best bet for you.
Thia is a very useful review. My step daughter has been talking about getting into snowboarding and her birthday is coming up soon. I was thinking about buying her a snowboard but didn’t even know where to start until I found your site. Looks like she’s gonna be getting a K2 First Lite. Thanks for the help and making up my mind for me.
Hey Eoinmc – glad I could be of service!
The K2 First Lite is going to be the perfect first board for your step daughter and should really help her to progress quickly.
Hey there! Thanks for posting! I am 5’6” 148 lb and I found a rapture 151 cm on sale and am slightly confused, bc on one page it looks like that size would be right for me according to the chart, but then on this page it doesn’t. I am just learning, been on the soaps like 3 x. I notice when looking at, say, the gala and the rapture you have different lengths for weight. How do you get that calculation??
Thanks so much!!!
-Amy
Hey Amy
Thanks for your message.
The weight range recommendations come from the manufacturer. So in the case of the Rapture it is Ride’s weight recommendations. These will differ depending on a number of different factors like flex and the materuals used in construction. These are always slightly different between brands too.
These are just guidelines and I think you’d be fine on the Rapture 151cm.
Also because you are a beginner it might be a good idea to get something slightly shorter – shorter boards are easier to manoeuvre for beginners. For your height and weight I’d put you on a “standard length” of 152cm. For a beginner I would go at least slightly shorter and up to 5cm shorter. So the Rapture 151 should be good for you – but also something like the Rossignol Myth 149cm, Rossignol Terla 148cm or K2 First Lite 150cm would also be good fits.
But if you’ve found a good price on the Rapture then by all means this is a great choice.
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions
Hi! We are looking to buy my 16-year-old daughter a snowboard for Christmas. Saw your article on what to look for in beginner boards and found it very helpful, but it was still a lot to sift through since I am neither a skier nor well versed in the boarder lingo! 🙂 She is an intermediate to advanced beginner and not a natural athlete, but loves to board. We live in New England and she is not into learning to do tricks, bumps etc., just basic riding the lift and going down the groomed and often icy (blue/green) trails. She’s not worried about going super fast and is a lefty/goofy (if that is relevant, I don’t know). Our local store suggested the 2014 Arbor Poparazzi (Clearance $240) for her. Length 147. She is 5’4″ and 115 lbs. what do you think about this board choice? Would she be better off with one of your top 5 recommended beginner boards and if so can I look for used older versions of those boards to save a little $$. Also, it gets confusing to me when her weight range falls into 2-3 of the size catagories. I get that shorter boards will be easier to maneuver, but at what point is a board just too short even though your weight fits the range? Thanks! Sarah
Hi Sarah
I think the 147 wouldn’t be too bad. I’d have her on a 144 or 145 ideally but a 147 wouldn’t be un-rideable. If she was a complete beginner I would recommend something shorter like a 140, 141 or 142. But since you say she is more intermediate to advanced then longer should be fine. I’d prefer to see her on a 145 or 144 but 147 isn’t a no goer.
As far as the Poparazzi goes this would be ok as a beginners board. But since your daughter isn’t a complete beginner it would be fine.
All of the boards in this list would also be suitable as they are all fine for intermediate riders.
Try the following links to see if you can find older models of these.
Past Model Womens Snowboards at evo.com
Past Model Womens Snowboards at the-house.com
Hope this helps. Let me know if you’d like me to narrow down what I think would be the best board for her and let me know your budget and I’d be happy to look into it further
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your wonderful websites that I was able to learn all about snowboards. Please do keep it up.
I am about 5’3″ and 118 lbs, just started learning snowboard last season and really like it! I bought my shoes (thirty two size 7.5) and would like to buy binding and the board as well since we live in a state where there is only 1 snowboard place and their rental board is quite like a piece of junk to be honest. I learned to snowboard in Whistler so I was quite spoiled with their good rental board and attentive service to match you with the board. I am looking at the GNU B-Nice board, do you think that would be a good buy? I am a real beginner still learning to link the turn and would like to excel to catch up with my husband. I like the Rossignol boards you recommended as well but not sure if 139cm would be too short for me. I am very tempted to buy the Burton Peanut series since they are so cute!! Are they good for beginners?
My husband is 6′ and around 185 – 190 lbs. He bought the 2015 Thirty Two Crab Grab Lashed boots size 13 and the Crab Grab binding size L/XL. He can link turn very well and have no intention on learning to ride in the park. Can you suggest a board for him? I know we might have done this backward by buying the shoes and binding first but he really liked the 2015 crab grab designs…
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi Angie
Thanks for your message.
The GNU B-nice is rated as a beginner board but I don’t personally consider it the best beginner board. It has quite a loose feel to it. A more stable feel underfoot is better for beginners in my opinion. It also has camber sections towards the tip and tail which can make it easier to catch an edge.
For you I would put you on a board length anywhere from 139cm to 142cm board. And eventually you’ll want to go to around a 144cm. The reason you want to start out shorter is that a shorter board is easier for a beginner to learn on.
I’m not familiar with the Burton Peanut unfortunately but from what I just looked up it looks like it could be ok as a beginner deck.
You could also check out the link below. It has the 5 boards on this post plus an extra 5. Scroll down to check out the women’s boards.
~ Beginner Snowboard Catalogue
Also check out the link below for some ideas for bindings.
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboard Bindings
Your husband sounds like he’s more advanced. I’d put him on a 160cm – 162cm for length. And also he should get a wide board. Since he’s not interested in the park you probably want to look at an all-mountain board. You can check out my top 10 men’s all mountain boards at the link below.
~Top 10 Men’s All-Mountain Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your help!
You’re very welcome!
Hi Nate!
I am so happy I found your website! I bought my snowboard quite sometime ago before I knew about the hybrid camber. My snowboard has a continuous rocker it’s a burton social board 2011 which is for freestyle. I would say I’m an intermediate snow boarder although I can’t nail down not falling off the lift which makes me think I’m a beginner. I took my board to the ski shop and he said it was because my camber is a rocker why I can’t balance correctly and fall off the lift each time. It’s hit or miss but I can turn and travel through the park just fine.
So now I’ve been shopping for board and was about to buy the sugar banana board until I stumbled upon your site. I was about to buy the 138 but think I’m more of a 142. I am 5’2 and 113 lbs. should I pass up the banana? Because I was also looking at the burton Flying V or the gnu b nice.
In addition, my board is set up as regular and I notice that when I ride I head out left front first but then for some reason when u ride straight I switch to right front first when my left in back. Now I’m not sure if I’m regular or goofy or maybe I just ride both? Any help is appreciated thanks!
Hey Melissa
Thanks for your message. Getting off the lift is often one thing that snowboarders have trouble with (lifts are designed for skiers afterall) – even after they become a pretty decent rider on the slopes. Certainly a continuous rocker profile won’t help with this either. Check out the post below for some tips for getting off the lift more smoothly.
~ Getting Off The Lift On A Snowboard More Smoothly
I agree that something around a 141 or 142 is a better size for you. I’m not sure that the Sugar Banana is the right board for you though if you are looking for more stability. The Sugar Banana still has a rocker under the feet and really just has some flat sections towards the tip and tail. For the most stable ride and one that’s still easy to turn I’d recommend something with a “hybrid camber” profile (camber between the feet and rocker towards tip and tail) or a “flat-to-rocker” (flat between the feet and rocker towards tip and tail). The Sugar Banana has what I’d call a “hybrid rocker” profile – as does the flying V and the B-nice.
As you’re an intermediate rider it’s not completely necessary that you go with one of these profiles but I think if you’re looking for that stability that you might enjoy riding with one of those profiles. All of the boards on this post have either a “hybrid camber” or “flat-to-rocker” profile. But since you’re not strictly a beginner I’d also check out the links below for some all-mountain and all-mountain-freestyle options. These will have varying camber profiles so you’ll need to check them but these could be some good options for you. If you like to ride in the park and also the trails then all-mountain-freestyle might be a good way to go for you.
~ My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
~ My Top 6 All-mountain snowboards
Hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions or want to narrow down your options further
Hi nath! Thank you so much! Actually looking at the Burton talent scout and the mystique nitro! Both look really good. Now I’m stuck between the the two. Looks like the mystique may have a little more of a rocker?
You’re very welcome!
I don’t know too much about either of those boards but from a quick bit of research looks like the Mistique has rocker between the feet and camber towards the tip/tail and the Talent Scout has camber between the feet and flat sections towards the tip/tail.
Hi nate!
Sorry about the name typo. So I was also shown a few other boards the Capita birds of a feather which they keep saying is a really great board and also the Salomon Wonder. I was leaning more towards the Nitro Mystique but was feeling like it might be a little loose the representative ensures me that’s it’s not. Now I’m looking at the Capita birds of a feather board. Too many decisions. Thank you!
Hey Melissa
Yeah buying new gear is great but there are always heaps of options to go through. I don’t much about the Salomon Wonder but I think the Capita Birds of a Feather might be slightly too aggressive for your level at this point. It’s a great board but maybe not the best for the next step. Just my opinion though. Out of those two I would say the Wonder is the better choice for you for now.
Hi nate, thanks for all the great info! It’s very much appreciated. Well I have it narrowed down to Mystique and the Capita. What do you mean by too aggressive? Harder to control? The Mystique I think is very similar to the Never Summer Oynx I think. I’m just afraid if I go with a rocker between the feet I might end up like I am now riding just rocker. But maybe I’ll end up liking it because my rocker has no camber at all.
Yes, the capita had really great reviews. I watched all the videos on YouTube and read lots of reviews. One of the reviews the girl had been riding rocker like me also and bought this board -and went back to a stable ride. It’s a tough one. I found they don’t demo boards here in my size only 145 and up.
Thanks!
Hey – yeah since you’ve been riding continuous rocker the mystique will definitely feel more stable.
What I mean by more aggressive is mostly that it’s stiffer and designed to be ridden steep and fast. Boards like that are often more difficult to control and are for more advanced riders.
I would go with the Mystique
Hi Nate! I was recently in Utah. Went Snowboarding and LOVED it! I am 5’7″ and 122 lbs. My rental was 149cm. Should I stick with that size deck?
Thank you!!
Also, looking at the Rossignol Myth since you rated it #1 for a Women/Beginner Smowboarder.
Hey Kelly
Welcome to the snowboarding addiction!
Usually I would put you on more of a 148 and then take off a couple of cms (it’s easier for beginners to learn on slightly smaller decks) which would be more like 144 to 146cm. However, if you felt you were comfortable on the 149cm then this might be fine for you. The Myth would be a great deck for you. It would just be a choice between the 144 and the 149.
Hey Nate!
Thank you so much!! If you think the 144 would be good, I think I’m going to look for the Myth in that size. I really want to improve my S turns to carve down the hill. Sounds like the 144 would be the best board length for me (in the Myth) to have fun and improve as well. I’m stoked to get my own board! I really appreciate your advice!
One more thing though. I just saw the Myth Deck on sale for $149.00 for a 149 length. Wow! Seems like a great deal. I’m thinking hard on it since I rode the 149 Rental at Sundance.
Thank you again for your words of wisdom!
You’re very welcome. Glad to help.
That is a great deal for the Myth. Definitely a choice to make – the great deal on the slightly longer board or the shorter length but paying more (I’m assuming they don’t have the 144 on sale).
Let me know what you decide.
Hi Nate! I went for it. It was only available in 149 and 139. I got the 149! All the reviews I read in addition to yours were so stellar, I figured that since I rode a 149 rental board, the experience on the Myth will only be better! Lots of beginner riders remarking that it’s such a great board to learn on! Hope so! Thank you for your advice and wisdom. I’ll update when I get on the mountain with it. This site is TOTALLY AWESOME by the way!! -Kelly
Thanks Kelly!
Great move in my opinion. Yeah definitely let me know how it goes once you’ve taken it for a ride
Hi Nate! I’m a beginner (went snowboarding three times only thus far) and I’m interested in buying the Rossi Myth since it’s been getting rave reviews everywhere online. However, I’m confused as to what snowboard length I should go for. I’m a really short girl, barely 5’2 and also a bit on the heavier side. From what I’ve read, if you’re on the heavier side, you should go for a board that has more surface area, so basically a longer one. But because I’m also pretty short and it’s recommended for beginners to get a shorter board for more maneuverability, I really don’t know what length to go for. Please kindly offer some advice. Thanks!
Hi Kimmy
Thanks for your message. Your absolutely correct that the more weight the longer the board and also that you should go for a shorter board when you’re a beginner.
Without knowing your weight I can’t suggest what I think is the best size for you but if you can let me know your weight then I’ll let you know the best size. If you don’t want to comment publicly here with that information you can send me a private message. Just go to my contact page and send me a message through there.
Either that or check out my post on choosing snowboard length at the link below. There are charts in there. I suggest taking between 3 and 5 centimetres off the size in the chart if you are a beginner.
~ Choosing Snowboard Length
Hi Nate!
I love your website, it’s been SO clutch in my snowboarding journey. I have the same question as above. I’m 5’2 and about 155 lbs. I’m a super beginner, I think the longest ride I’ve done is 30 seconds, but I’ve become obsessed with snowboarding, much to the dismay of my tailbone, elbows, and knees. I will probably go a few more times this season but really want to get my own board. I was looking at the Rossignol Frenemy but then saw that you recommend the Myth for beginners. Is the Frenemy too much board for me? Also for my height, weight, beginner level, what size board would you recommend for the Myth and/or Frenemy if it’s not too much board for a newbie? I was also interested in the Burton Lexa bindings, any thoughts on those? Thanks in advance!
Hey Venessa
Thanks for your message.
I actually think the Frenemy is a pretty good beginner board. It didn’t make this list but it’s certainly suitable for a beginner and one of the better beginner decks.
For the Myth you should go with the 149cm. Ideally I’d put you on a 147 but it doesn’t come in that and the 149 should be fine.
For the Frenemy I’d go with the 147cm.
As for the Burton Lexa – these are more for the more advanced rider. I think these were be too stiff/unforgiving for you as a beginner. Check out the list of my top 5 beginner snowboard bindings at the list below.
~ My Top 5 Womens Beginner Snowboard Bindings (scroll down for the womens top 5)
You don’t have to go with one of these but I wouldn’t go with the Lexa’s just yet. If you are looking at Burton and want something a step up from the Citizen and Stiletto I’d go with the Escapade before the Lexa.
Hope this helps,
Nate
Thanks Nate! I just bought the Burton Citizen’s today after reading your awesome and hilarious review of them. 😉 Thanks for your advice on sizing and I’m happy to know I can do the Frenemy Board! I’m so happy I stumbled across your site and thanks again for all your help!
Hey Vanessa
You’re very welcome. Hope your gear goes well and hope you have an awesome season!
Hi! It’s me again! Haha, okay so I think I have it narrowed down to 3 boards finally, the Rossi Myth 149, Rossi Frenemy 147, or K2 First Lite 146. Out of all of these, which do you think would be the best board to get? Like I said I’m a super beginner that’s truly fallen in love with sport. I want to spend a few seasons getting better and better, take more lessons, and ride as much as I can during the season. My main goal at this point is to be able to do runs without falling. I don’t know that I need to hardcore shred or do any super sweet jumps or rails anytime soon. If I could just not fall the entire way down the mountain I’d be happy! I also want something that I can progress with and not get sick of once I manage the impossible feat of riding. I don’t mind making an initial investment now, if it’s a good board that I can use for a few years to come. I will probably ride 10+ times a season and I live in Southern California so the slopes tend to get icy around this time of year. I’m down to travel though and can see myself planning trips just around snowboarding in the future, since I’m pretty limited here. I’m really torn between these 3 boards and I just don’t really know enough at this point to make a solid decision. Plus it’s not like these things are cheap, so I don’t want to choose wrong. Any help/thoughts would be so appreciated. Thanks again so much Nate! I seriously appreciate all your help.
Hey Vanessa – so awesome to hear your enthusiasm for snowboarding!
Honestly I think anyone of these 3 would work. But if I had to choose one for you and you’re willing to invest then I’d go with the Frenemy. It’s going to be a great beginner board but also progress well as an intermediate deck. It didn’t make this list because of it’s cost but otherwise it’s a great beginner deck. It will also have the best edge-hold (more grippy edges so will grip better in ice) than the other two.
But yeah totally any of these would work well. But my order would be, because you’re willing to invest a bit more now – Frenemy first then Myth then First Lite.
Hope this helps your decision. Enjoy those slopes and give me an update on which board you choose and your progression.
Hey Nate!
It’s me again! (you’re shocked aren’t you!) First of all thanks so much for your response! Second of all, I went snowboarding today (with a rented board) and made it all the way down the mountain without falling!!!! I’m on cloud 9. I had the best time ever today! I still have a lot of work to do where my toe edge is concerned, but I’m feeling so great about my runs today that I’m not going to be too hard on myself 😉
After having a few conversations with some fellow snowboarding friends and talking to them about boards, they all recommended and were fans of either Never Summer or Arbor boards. I’m definitely to the point where I’m willing to invest in my board. I realize these are quite a bit pricier than the Rossi’s I was looking at, but I’m willing to pay for quality and longevity. Can you recommend any boards that might be good for me in these brands for my level? I rented a 148 today based on your 147 recommendation and it was absolutely perfect. You rock! The board I rode today was a Salomon Sabotage (which I think is a guys board, but whatever.) I think it’s like a 6 flex and it was a true twin board with flat out camber. That’s all I could really find out about it. Anyway if that helps at all. It was a pretty nice ride. I feel like I’m back to square one though on my board choice. Ha! Sorry! Have I told you, you’re the best lately?
Hi again!
Congrats for making it down! Great work. I had the most trouble on my toe edge when starting out too.
I definitely rate Never Summer and Arbor. They’re certainly not the only good brands but they are 2 of the better ones in my opinion. They’re certainly not your only options but if you do want to go with one of those then I’d go with the Never Summer Onyx – this should be a good board to learn on, not perfect but pretty good, and is just an awesome board in general for when you become more advanced.
I would go with either the 146 or 149.
Let me know if you want any other recommendations. Keep up the good work on the slopes!
Hey Nate!
I’m totally open to suggestions! What other options do you think might be a good fit for me? I’d love to check them out! 🙂
I think the following would be great options if you are looking to invest in quality but still want something that will be good to learn on. The list above are still good options but they do take price into account for their scores.
The list below includes the options that we’ve already discussed because I think everything we’ve looked at so far are still really good options for you. I’ve just added a few others to the list. I haven’t included too many because we don’t want too many options or it gets too confusing!
~ Rossignol Myth
~ Rossignol Frenemy
~ Never Summer Onyx
~ Never Summer Infinity
~ Arbor Swoon
~ YES Emoticon
~ GNU Ladies Choice
Awesome! Thanks so much Nate, I’ll research these and let you know what I decide, hopefully this week, I’ve got a Mammoth trip in the works! 😉 Thanks again for all your help with this!
You’re very welcome Vanessa!
Definitely let me know what you decide. Have an awesome trip to Mammoth!
Hey Nate! I found a killer almost too good of a deal to pass up on the Never Summer Aura. What are your thoughts on that board for me? Too much?
Hey Vanessa
I want to be able to tell you to go for it since you’ve found a good deal on it – but I’m concerned that this board is too advanced for you at this stage and will make your learning curve more difficult.
One idea could be to buy the Aura for further down the line when you are more advanced and get something else for learning on now?? That might be too much of an investment for you at this point but is one option.
I was thinking the same thing, but didn’t know if that was something that people do, have more than one board, haha, glad to know it’s an option and not a rediculous idea, I just might do that! Leaning towards the Infinity or Frenemy to start and the Aura for down the road. 😉 Thanks Nate! I have some final decision making to do!
Hey Vanessa
Yeah people often have more than one board – for example you might have a different board for riding the park and for riding the backcountry.
I would maybe go with the Onyx over the infinity or another more freestyle/park oriented board. That way down the track if you get into freestyle riding you’ll have a deck for freestyle riding and one for everything else (the Aura). A lot of (but not all) Freestyle decks are also pretty good to learn on (you don’t have to ride freestyle on them).
And if you don’t end up riding freestyle or decide to get a different deck for freestyle, then you can always sell it and just ride the Aura.
The reason I would recommend the Onyx over the Infinity for this reason is that the Onyx is better for freestyle/park riding.
Nate, you seriously rock! Thanks so much for all your help on this, I would have been so lost without you! And the winner is….drum roll please…The Frenemy! I feel so confident in my board set up now (The Frenemy/Citizen) and like I’m all set for the future (Aura/Escapade). Thanks for helping me make my choices and working with me to weigh every option. Hugs! I’ll check in and let you know how it’s going! Thanks again for everything. 🙂
Ps. Is it weird that all my snowboarding friends know you by name now? “Let me see what Nate says about that…” Ha!!!
That’s not weird, that’s awesome!
And good work making a decision!
Definitely update me with your progress.
Also, will my Citizen bindings be too soft for the Aura, will I need to get something more like the Escapade bindings for that board? Also the fact that the Aura is Rocker in the middle and Camber on the outside, should I get the Infinity as my beginner board so I am more familiar with that type of ride? I believe the Frenemy is the opposite, it has the Rocker on the edges and Camber in the middle. Does that even matter? The reviews seem to say the Frenemy is a bit more stable because of this and the Infinity can get a little squirrley. Haha, as you can tell, I tend to over-think things! 😉 I found a great price on the Infinity and the Frenemy, so I’m ready to pull the trigger! Also the Aura is on it’s way!
Hey
Nice work on getting the Aura!
In my opinion the Escapade’s are a great choice of bindings for riding any kind of board. The Citizen won’t be a great match for the Aura – they would be a bit soft – but the Citizen is a better binding to learn on. The Escapade’s would be a great step up from the Citizen once you are through that beginner phase. They would also not be terrible to learn on since they are great at adapting to the board but still not quite as good a starter binding as the Citizen.
I definitely get the idea of going for a board with the same type of Camber Profile so that you are used to it. The only thing is that, as you say, with Rocker underfoot it can get a bit squirrely. That’s why I usually recommend a board with Camber or flat underfoot and rocker towards the tip and tail for beginners. The Hybrid Rocker profile of the Aura (and the Infinity) will be more difficult to learn on – so I guess you have to weigh that up with having something that you’re used to leading into the Aura.
As I mentioned in my other post I would go with the Onyx over the Infinity – just so you’ve got a different style of board for further down the right in case you want to keep it rather than selling it but that’s up to you of course.
The Frenemy will be more stable because of its Hybrid Camber shape (camber underfoot and rocker towards tip and tail) – it will be better for learning on than the NS Decks in my opinion. But you can definitely learn on the NS’s. I would decide between the Onyx and the Frenemy as your first board. There are pros and cons to both. But if you do go NS I’d go Onyx rather than Infinity – except that maybe you can’t find the Onyx cheap?
Anyway those are my thoughts. I totally get over-thinking these things but it’s better to over think than under think so that you can get the best setup!
Hi Nate !
I’m a begginner and I’m interested in buying the Flow Silhouette or the Rossi Myth.
You rated the Rossignol Myth #1 but is the Flow Silhouette a bad choice ?
I am 5’4 and 123 Lbs. Could you tell me what lenght is good for me, please ? I thought about 144 but I’m not 100% sure.
Thank you a lot for your advice.
Sara
ps : sorry for my English, I’m French 😉
Hi Sara
Your English is fine!
The Flow Silhoutte would be a great option as a beginner deck. It’s not one that I’ve checked out before but I just did a bit of research on it and it looks like it’s well suited to the beginner. It has all the specs I would look out for in a beginner deck. Silhouette is a good choice.
144 is also a great size for you.
So, I think either the Myth 144cm or Silhouetee 144cm would both be great options for you.
Thanks for visiting
Thank you for your quick reply, it’s very nice of you !
You’re very welcome
Hi!
This is a really interesting read. I’m currently learning on a dry slope in the UK and really enjoying it. We are off to Finland in early April and there will the opportunity to have a go on Snow! I was thinking about just hiring the kit but from doing a little research I can see there are some quite affordable options available. You mentioned the K2 First Lite. I have found the K2 FIRST LITE W 2014 at a great price and wondered if this would be a good beginner board? I am 5’7 and weigh 134lb what size would you recommend? I have been learning on a 140 which i’m finding fine but quite a few people have said that seems like it would be too small for me? Thanks for the info! Rae
Hey Rae
Thanks for the message. Yeah K2 First Lite definitely a great beginner deck. This would be a good choice. I agree that 140cm is too short for you. You want to go with something slightly shorter when you’re starting out but that’s too short for you even for a beginner deck.
I’d put you at about a 149 or even 150 if you were and advanced rider but I usually recommend to take off 3-5cm for beginner to intermediate riders. That would make the First Lite 146cm a really good fit for you. It will take a bit of getting used to if you are used to riding a 140cm but it will be much better after a while, in my opinion.
Hi Nate!
Thank you for your site and answers, they are incredibly helpful! According to your list I found Rossignol Myth Amptek 2014 for good price. But as I’m a beginner I’m not sure what size I should choose. I’m 101 lbs and 5’5”. I suppose 138 or 140 will good for me. But Rossignol Myth Amptek is only available in 136 size. As an alternative there’re 140 cm Burton Genie 2015, 142 cm K2 First Lite 2015, 138 cm Ride Rapture 2015 and 139 cm DC BIDDY 2016. What board would be the best choice for me? I’ll be very grateful for your help!
Hey Irene
Thanks for the question. I would put you on a 141cm if you were a more advanced rider but as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off 3cm to 5cm so anything from a 136 to a 139 would be the best range for your first board in my opinion – and you could probably stretch that to a 140cm but 136 to 139 would be ideal.
136 would be the shortest I would choose for you but it’s still an appropriate length so going with the Myth 136 is still an option.
For this reason I would say the 142cm First Lite is a bit long for you.
The Burton Genie is a good beginner deck and the 140cm wouldn’t be the most ideal size but definitely doable.
The Ride Rapture 138cm is probably the best size-wise so this is definitely an option.
I don’t know much about the DC Biddy but with a quick bit of research looks like it could be a good beginner deck and it’s a good size for you.
That probably didn’t narrow it down too much for you. I think you’d be fine to go with any one of those – except perhaps the First Lite just because it’s a little long. This would be my order of recommendations.
1. Ride Rapture 138cm
2. Rossignol Myth 136cm
3. Burton Genie 140cm
4. DC Biddy 139cm (4th because I don’t know that much about it)
But yeah, as I say anyone of those would suit you fine. Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Firstly great article – very useful! I was looking at getting either the Rossignol Diva Magtek or Roxy XOXO (recommended to me by a store nearby – banana shape and magtek) but after reading your article I’m thinking either the Salomon, Tesla (love the graphics and wild sintered make it a bit more zippy) or Myth as the Diva and XOXO look to be more intermediate to pro boards and freestyle and like you said I think it’s better to learn then buy a board I will grow into… I can’t decide and was hoping for some help from you! I am leaning towards Myth then Tesla… I’m roughly 130lbs (60kg sometimes go down to 55) and 5’6/7, what size board would you recommend? Have snowboarded once before but really like to push myself and think I’ll progress quickly to intermediate once I’ve mastered turning! I can turn easily heel side but not toeside and I enjoy ploughing and switching down the mountain.
Thanks so much and I look forward to your response :). Binding recommendations would also be appreciated!
Elise
I have found a Myth 149cm for a good price with bindings here: Rossignol Myth at Wilderness
But I’m not sure if that’s slightly too big a board for me? And not sure which year the board is!
Hey
149cm is maybe slightly too long for a beginner board. But it’s not entirely out of range. As mentioned in my other reply, I’d say your around a 150cm when you become more advanced but possibly even a 151cm taking into account the fact that your weight is increased when you have all your snowboarding gear on.
Preferably I’d say 145 to 148 but 149 isn’t outrageously too long.
That’s the 2014 Myth – probably why you’re able to get a good deal on it. But I don’t think the Myth has changed much since then so it’s still a great beginner deck.
The bindings should be nice and easy to learn on too. I don’t know that much about them but they are designed for beginners.
Hope this helps
Hi Elise
Thanks for your message.
I would put you on roughly a 149 or 150 if you were a more advanced rider. As a rule I recommend taking off 3 to 5cm for beginners. So I would say anything around a 145, 146, 147 or something like that would be best for your first board.
For the Myth either the 144cm or the 149cm would work ok
For the Tesla I’d go with the 148cm
For the Lotus that would be the 146cm
I think it’s a great move to start with a beginner deck. It will help you improve much faster.
For bindings check out my top 5 beginner bindings at the link below. If you want more info on bindings after going through that just let me know and I’d be happy to answer any questions.
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Bindings (scroll down past the top 5 men’s bindings to get to the women’s section)
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the advice!
I’m definitely thinking the Rossi Myth, would you recommend the 144 or 149 for me? As that’s the main problem I’m having to decide! 160lbs and 5’7.
Also I am heading in Spring season in Wyoming – I’m concerned there may not be as much snow and it will be icy… But not really sure as I haven’t been to that area before. If it is icier conditions, is there a board you would recommend over the Myth to gain more edging, or would it be sufficient? Just making sure I’m covering all bases!
I’ve looked into your binding recommendations and I’m thinking of geting the Burton Citizen Re Flex followed by the K2 Yeah Yeah’s. Any preference here?
And lastly snowboard boots! I’m having trouble finding some as I have really narrow feet and I’m looking for something that holds my heel down as my biggest problem seems to be my heel riding up. Do you have any recommendations here? I love the look of the 32 STM Boa, but they have a single boa system, which I’m told is problematic? Would you recommend traditional lacing, single or double boa when it comes to boots? This is the final puzzle piece and then I’m all set to go!
Thank you so much! Your advise is gold!
Elise
Hey Elies
Thanks for your message.
Definitely 149cm for the Myth for you if you go with that. I’d say the Myth is good for medium snow conditions. If you’re worried about icy conditions then the Rossignol Frenemy and the Yes Emoticon are great in icy conditions and are also great beginner decks. They do cost a bit more though. They would also be on this list if not for their price.
Either the Burton Ciztizen or K2 Yeah Yeahs would be a good choice as beginner bindings.
Yeah snowboard boots are a tricky one if you can’t try them on. The best thing is if you can try them on. If you can then check out the link below to learn how to make sure your boots fit how they should.
Snowboard Boot Sizing
If you can’t try them on then there are pros and cons between the different lacing systems.
Traditional lacing is great for adjustability and getting them to fit just right. But some people have trouble getting them tight enough. My girlfriend used to have tradtitional lace boots but always got me to tie them because she could never get them tight enough. She now uses boa.
Boa is great for getting it nice and tight but, like you say, single boa systems can’t tighten specific parts of the boot separately. Double boa removes most of this issue.
Speed lacing is great but again some people can have trouble getting them tight enough. Also you preferably want a speed lacing system that has independent systems for either tightening the upper and lower boot separately or the inner and outer boot separately. You can read more at the link below.
~ Snowboard Boot Lacing Systems
Unfortunately a lot of women’s boots are only single boa but there are definitely women’s boots with double boa – they’re just harder to come by. And usually double boa systems aren’t put on beginner boots – though in my opinion it’s just as important for beginner boots as others.
You can check out the following to see if you can find something suitable in there.
~ My top women’s beginner boots
~ My top women’s freestyle boots (can often also be good for beginners)
~ My top women’s all mountain boots
Hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions
Hi Nate,
Awesome site, i have found this really helpful! I have been looking at buying a beginners board after discovering snowboarding last season where i probably went out about 20 days worth.
I am in Australia and conditions here are usually quite icy, i am 5’9″ and just under 160 lbs with a size 10 foot. I tried out a couple of boards at a demo day last season – burton social, k2 first lite and ride compact and hated them all! Hence i went back to the beginners rental – the 149 Burton LTR L which i had a great time on.
After doing some extensive research and shopping around it appears everyone i speak to seems to have a different opinion about a suitable board! Some of the boards i have looked at/been recommended are the rossignol myth & frenemy, the Yes Emoticon, Roxy Sugar Banana along with the ones i tried out above.
Are you able to offer some suggestions for what you think might be a suitable board & size? Price isn’t really a concern as i would rather get something that i am going to enjoy and i will definately make use of it considering i have a season pass again this year!
Thanks heaps 🙂
Hey Lauren
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I think something a bit longer than a 149cm would suit you. Anything from a 151cm to a 154cm would be good for you at this stage I think. Since you did enjoy riding the 149 it suggests that maybe you prefer a shorter board so maybe something closer to the 151cm. Though since you have already done 20 days you could probably move to something a bit longer.
Do you know the sizes of the Social, First Lite and Compact that you tried? Maybe you didn’t like the size? In any case none of those are great choices for icy or hard snow conditions so I wouldn’t recommend them if that’s what you often ride in.
I think the Frenemy and the Emoticon would both be great options. They both have much better edge-hold than the other 3 you tried and would be much better in the conditions you described. They also have different camber profiles than the other 3 so will feel different underfoot. They have hybrid camber profiles (camber underfoot for stability and rocker towards tip and tail to avoid catching an edge) making them good beginner boards. I’m not sure what the Burton LTR-L has – I’m not familiar with that board – it may just be a hire board?
The Myth won’t have the same grip on ice as the other 2 and if you’re willing to invest a bit more then I think the Frenemy and the Emoticon would be the better options.
In terms of sizing I would go with the following.
Frenemy – 153cm
Emoticon – 152cm
Hope this helps. Oh one more question – is your boot size a US size 10? Not sure what sizing is used in Australia
Hi there Nate, your website has been so fantastic in preparing us for our first snowboarding trip to Whistler in a couple of weeks, thank you so much for all the effort you have put in to make it so great!
I have a quick question about the correct size of snowboard for me, I’m 152lbs, 5’5 1/2 and my shoe size is women’s us8.5 (39/25cm).
I’m really leaning towards the Rossi Myth followed by the Ride Rapture. I’m super confused about which size to get because I seem to fall right on the line between the 149 and the 154 for the Rossi Myth and I’m not sure if my foot size is correct for that board? ( I was using the chart from your totally awesome e-book).
With the Ride Rapture according to the charts on the Ride website I would be size 154, but when I put my details into their snowboard finder option it suggested the 151 size.
I’m an absolute beginner and sooo confused, what would you recommend?
Hey Bianca
Thanks for your message. Awesome that you liked the book.
I’d have you on around a 152cm or 153cm board once you are a more advanced rider. As a beginner it’s important to choose a board that is a bit shorter. It will make the learning process a lot easier. So I’d say anything from a 147 to a 150 would be your best range for your beginner board.
For the Myth I would definitely go for the 149. For the Rapture either the 147 or the 151.
In terms of width the Rapture would be the safer bet but I think you’d fit on the Myth too.
Hope this helps – enjoy Whistler!
Hi Nate, thank you so much for your advice, it’s really, really appreciated and super helpful! We have only one snowboard stores in the country I live in, with no selection of boards for women, so I will have one day of shopping in Seattle on the way up to whistler to get everything for the trip. Thank goodness I found your awesome site, I would be so lost without it!
Just one more quick question if that’s ok… I’m going to have to go with what is available at the stores on the day that I’m there, I’m doing lessons at the moment in an indoor ski slope on a rental Rossi trick-stick (only option). Ive looked online and it doesn’t look like many of the stores, REI, Evo, etc in Seattle stock the Rossi Myth.
I’m happy to invest in a quality board that will stay with me for a while, another one that was recommended to me was the Gnu B nice which is easily available at all the stores I checked online. Would that be a suitable option also? Are then any others that I should also consider on the day if they have my correct size?
Hi Bianca
You’re very welcome.
I think the B-Nice would be a decent board to learn on. My only concern is that it would feel a bit too loose for learning on, which is why it didn’t make the list.
If you are willing to invest more you might want to also consider:
~ The Rossignol Frenemy – a great beginner deck but also for more advanced riders but a bit more costly.
~ The YES Emoticon – like the Frenemy great for learning on but with a slightly higher price tag than your typical beginner deck
~ Rossignol Gala
~ Salomon Oh Yeah
The Ride Rapture is still an option too as discussed previously.
Enjoy your trip to Whistler!
Awesome, thanks Nate, you are the best!
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for all of the helpful info on this site. I’m a beginning to intermediate snowboarder and am looking to take advantage of the post-season sales to get a deck for next season. I’m 5’5, 155 and wear a (US) size 9.5 boot. I am leaning toward the Rossignol Myth with Burton Stiletto bindings. Would you suggest a 149? I was also looking at the K2 Bright Lite? Do you have thoughts on that board? Finally, and this may seem weird, but I was wondering if the myth would be good for someone with big feet? I thought it interesting that the myth bindings only seem to come in s/m (it’s also totally possible that I’m just reading too much into that).
Hey Stephanie
Thanks for your message. As a beginner intermediate rider I think that the 149cm would be ideal for you. However, I am concerned that this board would be too narrow for your boot size. It has quite a narrow width on it. You might be ok but it would be a risk (if it’s too narrow you could risk boot drag).
The K2 Bright Lite could be an option. It’s a medium flex so it would be a bit stiff for a beginner but if your more on the intermediate side of things it could work. Again the 149 would be a good option – and the width is wider and probably more suitable.
Width is important – your definitely not reading too much in it.
Hope this helps – let me know if you have any other questions
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your thoughts on the Myth and also the Bright Lite. Think I will err on the side of caution and avoid the Myth so as avoid the potential boot drag issue. While I’m still considering the Bright Lite, I’ve now also added the Flow Silhouette and the Arbor Poparazzi to the list. Do you happen to have thoughts/advice on those decks?
Thanks again, all of your advice is truly appreciated!
Stephanie
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for all of the helpful info on this site. I’m a beginning to intermediate snowboarder and am looking to take advantage of the post-season sales to get a deck for next season. I’m 5’5, 155 and wear a (US) size 9.5 boot. I am leaning toward the Rossignol Myth with Burton Stiletto bindings. Would you suggest a 149? I was also looking at the K2 Bright Lite? Do you have thoughts on that board? Finally, and this may seem weird, but I was wondering if the myth would be good for someone with big feet? I thought it interesting that the myth bindings only seem to come in s/m (it’s also totally possible that I’m just reading too much into that).
Hey Stephanie
You’re very welcome!
I think the Flow Silhouette could be an option. It fits all the right specs as an entry level deck. The 151cm would be the best for you and the width should be perfectly fine on that board. My one reservation would be that you would outgrow this board too quickly. But you could always sell it and upgrade if that was the case.
The Poporazzi is also an option. Only thing would be that this will feel a bit looser – i.e. not quite as stable as the other options. If this is something that you like the sound of then that’s sweet. I wouldn’t typically recommend it to a complete beginner but sounds you are a bit past that. It does have more of a medium rather than medium-soft flex too. If you did go with Poporazzi then the 150cm would be the best bet. However, the width is very similar to that of the Myth so if you weren’t wanting to risk it being too narrow I’d cross this off the list too.
Hope this helps and doesn’t make your decision even harder! Feel free to let me know if you have other options and want to know what I think
Hi Nate,
Again, your input is so helpful, thank you! I have crossed the Paparazzi off the list due to the width being a potential issue. I took a look at your expanded list of beginner boards and am now interested in the Burton Genie. My only concern is that it might be too much of a beginner board. If you think it might be a good option, I’ve been looking at both this year and last year’s model. Do you think they are similar enough that either would be ok?
Thanks again!
Stephanie
Hey Stephanie
I think the Burton Genie would be an ok option. It is pretty soft flexing – which is great for beginners but probably wouldn’t take you past the intermediate phase unless you think you’ll be into riding the park later. However, you could always get it and sell it once you’ve outgrown it and get the next step up.
In terms of this year’s and last year’s model I usually say go with last year’s if you can find it and get it at a good price. Usually from year to year there aren’t too many changes (sometimes there is but I don’t think that’s the case with the Genie) just minor tweaks.
Hi Nate,
How flexible is sizing? When I rented a board they put me on a 153 the first time, then a 152 the next few times. I never noticed a difference either way. Now that I’m looking to buy my own board I’m a bit overwhelmed. Should I stick with a 152/153 since I know that works for me? If I find an otherwise perfect board (the Rossi Myth sure looks tempting, but I can only find it 149 or lower), how much can I compromise on length?
I’m just under 5’10”, 135-145lb, size 8 boot. I was also looking at the K2 Bright Lite but they only have it in a 151 and 154.
Your site is super helpful – thanks so much!
Hey Sara
Yeah board length is definitely flexible to an extent. You’re unlikely to notice the difference going from one centimeter. Especially if you don’t ride them one after the other on the same day. I can definitely tell the difference between 2 centimeters but I demo a lot of different boards in a variety of sizes.
That said, you will notice the difference of more than 2cms so you want to get reasonably close but there is some flexibility.
I think that a 152 or 153 would be a good size for you as a more advanced rider – but as a beginner I think it’s a good idea to go slightly shorter. I think anywhere from a 149 to a 151cm would be a good range for you.
So if you go with the Myth go with the 149 – if you go with the Bright Lite choose the 151cm.
Hope this helps – thanks for visiting.
I ended up going with the Myth since I found it on sale for $180. Thanks for your response, it was very helpful!
You’re very welcome.
Nice deal! Let me know how you like it after you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking at getting the Myth in a 139 or 144, but not sure which would be best for me. After two snowboarding trips, I can carve down the mountain but not without a few falls, so definitely still a beginner. I’m about 5’1″ – 5’2″ and 110 lbs and according to the Rossi chart, I’m out of the weight range for a 139. Will the 144 be too long for me?
Thanks!
Hey Kat
Your on the cusp a bit here. The 139 would be a good length for you generally speaking. But the manufacturers weight range recommendation should also be taken into account. I think the 144cm will be slightly too long for you as a beginner. I would go with the 139. Your right at the limit of the weight range but you are still within it. I think that the 139 would be a better option than the 144 at this stage.
Hi Nate
Looking for some advice. I am 5.51 and 143 Ibs I have had around 3 days renting and I am still learning to turn correctly, especially toe side turns. I live in NZ snow conditions are quite icy, looking for a good choice for our conditions and also advice on what length I should ride on. My last rental was a rossignol trickstick 151 and I thought maybe a little shorter might have been good. Not too worried about price.
Hi Ange
I would say go a little shorter, depending on the board. A lot of boards have weight recommendations and you take that into account as well but in general I would say anything from a 147 to a 149 would be a good range to look at for your first board.
Based on your requirements I would say either the Never Summer Onyx or the Yes Emoticon would be the ideal fit. For the Onyx the 149 would be your best size and for the Yes Emoticon it would be the 149 also. There are other options but these are the best – and I couldn’t really find any of the other options in NZ stores either. You can check out the links for the NZ stores I found them in below.
Unfortunately I could only find the Onyx in a 146 but if you look deeper you might be able to find it in a 149. I found a 143 at another store but that’s definitely going too short. You’d get away with the 146. But I think the YES Emoticon is slightly better in ice anyway so that’s a great choice for you.
>>Yes Emoticon 149 at Boardertown.co.nz
>>Never Summer Onyx 146 at Boardertown.co.nz
The only reason neither of these boards made this top 5 women’s beginner snowboard list is because of price (which I took into consideration for the scores) otherwise they’re great for beginners.
Hope this helps. Thanks for visiting
Nate
Oh yeah – and I’m saying all this based on a height of 5’5″. Your post says 5.51 – correct me if I’m wrong in assuming that’s 5ft 5inches and I can adjust the length recommendation.
Hi Nate
Excellent thanks for your help, yes I am probably going to get one from overseas as like you say choices are limited and its cheaper too. Great advice, the YES emoticon and also the Frenemy were on my list, good to hear I am on the right track.
Hey Ange
You’re very welcome.
Definitely with a smaller population stores find it harder to offer as much gear – kinda makes sense but a bit limiting for the consumer. Hope you find a great board. If you think of it, let me know what you go with and what you think of it.
Hi Nate,
I am 5’4″ and 53kgs. I have been snowboarding a handful of times before but recently lost my confidence a little after a fall and have got into a few bad habits. I still would consider myself a beginner and this will be the first snowboard I have bought having rented in the past. I found your reviews so helpful and am really thinking of getting the Ride Rapture. However, my dad wants me to get the Burton Socialite. Is this also good for a beginner? I really want strong hold on hard snow and responsiveness with turning. I don’t care about going super fast and I don’t tend to go in the parks much, though I like to ride on both a groomed piste and off-piste powder. Leaving the price aside, which of these two boards would you recommend?
Thanks,
Jess
Hey Jess
Out of those 2 I would definitely go with the Rapture.
The reason’s I wouldn’t go with the Socialite is that it has a slightly looser feel and that’s not ideal for beginners and not ideal for what you want to do either. I wouldn’t say the Socialite is bad for a beginner but it’s not the best.
Both the Rapture and the Socialite are probably equal when it comes to edge-hold on hard snow. Both not bad but both not great. For better edge hold in harder snow and better float in powder I’d take a look at the YES Emoticon and the Rossignol Frenemy – both are still great for beginners as well. They didn’t make this list because of their price only really – they’re a bit more expensive than the rest on this list.
But they would probably be the best for you particularly. You can learn more about them at the following links.
>>Rossignol Frenemy
>>YES Emoticon
In short – out of the 2 the Rapture is the better choice, in my opinion but if you take money out of the equation and are looking for better edge-hold then the Emoticon and Frenemy are better options.
Sorry to go against your Dad! 🙂
Hope this helps
Thanks for your advice Nate! And for my height and weight, what length should I be looking at?
You’re very welcome!
For each board I’ve included recommended size options:
~YES Emoticon: 143cm – if you were a more advanced rider I’d say the 146 (but for beginners it’s better to ride a shorter length (easier to control the board) – dito for the rest
~Rossignol Frenemy: 144cm
~Ride Rapture: 143cm
Hope you enjoy your first snowboard and let me know how you like it once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Great, thank you! I have decided on the YES Emoticon 143. Do you think last years model will be good enough? Or has it changed a lot since then?
Hey Jess
Great choice!
I think the only thing that’s changed for the 2017 model is the graphic so last year’s model will definitely be fine. Let me know how it goes once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hi Nate,
I’m a new boarder, after years of going once because my friends all wanted to and spending most my time on the ground. I’ve decided this is the year I finally learn, commit too going. I started looking at boards but found some slight problems the first my height to weight ratio 5’4 – 260 Ibs. Based on this I assumed I would need a longer board, after going back and forth I ordered the M3 Free 158 , it arrived today and I’m having some serious doubts it looks longer than anything I’ve ever been on (rentals) , the brand had little reviews so I’m not sure on quality and finally while it’s absolutely beautiful, I’m more of a black and green colours kind of girl.
Even before looking at your review I found the rossignol myth gorgeous and exactly the kind of board I’d like aesthetics wise. Based on the weight limits It seems it would not be the right board at all . Any tips advice? The m3 is simply not making me happy but also finding a board that would fit me based on my size seems a challenge
Hey Mai
Unfortunately the Myth isn’t really going to be suitable.
Thanks for your message. I have to admit that M3 is not a brand that I know anything about (beyond knowing that they exist!). I think 158 probably is a bit long and will be a bit of a challenge to learn on. Once you are more advanced that size would be fine for you but as a beginner I would say that something between 154 and 156 would be a better bet.
If you are able to get a different board that would probably make your progression a bit easier.
What I would suggest and I have suggested for others is that you try and go for something that’s a medium flex. Medium-soft or soft is better for beginners but if you are a bit above the weight guidelines for a medium flex board then it will feel more like a medium-soft or soft.
If you do decide to buy something else or have your current board exchanged, then I’d suggest one of the following:
>>Burton Feel Good Flying V 155
>>Jones Twin Sister 155
>>GNU Velvet Gnuru 153
These are all easy riding boards. The only thing that makes them not ideal as beginner boards is that they have a medium flex (where medium-soft would be better) but because you are above the weight recommendations they will feel like medium-soft of soft when you’re riding them.
The other option would be to have a custom snowboard made. I don’t have any experience with that so I’m not sure how you’d get started but I do know there are people that make custom boards. The other option would be to go for a men’s board but the downside of that is that they tend to be wider and if your feet are too far inside the edges of the board then it makes it really hard to initiate turns – so I’d avoid the option if you can help it.
Hope this helps
Hi,
I was wondering if you could help me, to choose correct snowboard for me.
I am not the complete beginner, I ride since 3 seasons, once a year – according to your article I would say that I am between level 2 and 3. My current snowboard is Rosignol Temptation (I use it from the beginning) and I don’t feel very comfortable on it (it is too fast for me and for longer time I cannot learn to make curving turns on this board).
Now I want to make small step back and learn again from the beginning on the new board (is it good idea?). Because of that I am evaluating to buy Burton Genie, Rosignol Myth or Rosignol Frenemy or maybe some other board. I am also not sure what length should I take. I prefer all mountain style. I have 169cm and around 56kg.
I would be greatfull if you could give me some hints.
Regards
Hi Emilia
Definitely a good idea to take a step back and learn on a board that will aid your progression. In the long run you will progress faster.
Sizing-wise I’d say to go with something between 144cm and 146cm.
So for the boards you mentioned:
Myth: 144cm
Genie: 142cm (the next size up is a 148 and the weight recommendations put you on the 142)
Frenemy: 144cm
Out of curiosity, what is the size of your current board?
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for the Reply 🙂
My current board is 150cm.
One more question if I may. Which of those 3 boards that I mentioned would you recommend the most, taking into account that what problems do I have with my Rosignol? Or maybe you would recommend some other board?
Hi Emilia
Thanks for letting me know. I had suspected that you had a longer board. And I think that will be a big reason that you have had trouble with your current board.
The longer the board, the harder it is to ride and the faster the board will be. If the board is too long for your physical specs and your tehnical ability, it will make the board difficult to control and likely faster than a beginner would want it.
I think you would be fine on any of the boards from the last comment, because the shorter size will make them much better for learning on (and they are good learner boards anyway), as long as you get them in the sizes recommended.
If you’re still worried that it has something to do with the Rossignol boards then you could try something with a flat-to-rocker profile. Those Rossignol boards have a Hybrid Camber profile. The Hybrid Camber profile is good for beginners – so long as the camber sections aren’t too exaggerated. If the Camber sections are more exaggerated then it will make the board faster. If you really want to play it safe you could try something with a flat-to-rocker profile.
The Burton Genie does have a flat-to-rocker profile and is a good beginner board so that’s definitely an option. Also the Rome Royal, Ride Rapture and the Salomon Oh Yeah on this list have flat-to-rocker profiles. If you’d like to know more options with this profile, let me know.
But I think the main thing at the moment is the size so the Rossignol boards from the last comment should be fine and also any of the others mentioned here.
Hi Nate,
I love your reviews! They are really helpful and I wish I read them before getting my snowboards.
I have been snowboarding for a few years but I’m still trying my best at carving without falling – so I’d say I’m still a beginner. I wonder if I don’t have gears suitable for beginners and that’s why I’ve been struggling with my carving.
I’m 5″3 around 103lbs with size 5 feet, and I’m not sure if I can get Myth here (Canada). I did a bit of research online and we sell Rapture and Oh Yeah here, although personally I like K2 snowboards more. Would you recommend getting K2 First Lite over the other 2, and would they all be in the shortest size (138cm)?
Thanks,
Alice
Hi Alice
138 would be a good size for you. So for all 3 of those boards (Rapture, Oh Yeah and First Lite) the 138 would be the best size.
Any of those 3 boards would definitely be suitable. The First Lite was very close to making this list and is a really good beginner snowboard option. If you know that you prefer K2 boards, then I would go with the First Lite. The Myth is number 1 here but there are a number of snowboards that are suitable for beginners and you don’t necessarily have to go for that, of course.
So K2 First Lite 138 would be a great option for you.
Hope this helps and that you have a great season!
Hi Nate!
Your information was super helpful so thank you for that! My name is Kaycee and my first time snowboarding was last year. I’m definitely still consider a beginner and was wondering what you think of the Burton Talent Scout Snowboard 2015-2016. Fell in love with the design (I know the design is the last thing you should think about) but I just could not stop looking at it. You wouldn’t recommend that board for a beginner since it is a “freestyle” snowboard and not a “all mountain” board. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi Kaycee
Actually some freestyle boards make really good beginner boards – but not all of them. Unfortunately the Talent Scout isn’t something that I would recommend for a beginner. I know how tempting it can be to buy based on looks. I’ve made that mistake before!
If you wanted to go Burton and liked the design you could look at the Deja Vu Flying V. It’s still not the ideal beginner board but would be ok as a beginner option. The Burton Genie would be the best beginner option in terms of its specs (from the Burton line) and then probably the Lip Stick and the Deja Vu Flying V after that.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
i am looking to buy a board for my daugther. She is 5’4″ and around 140lbs. i was looking at the myth. One concern is that she wears a size 9 boot. rossignol web site indicates max recommend 8W. What would you recommend. She is just starting out. great info!!!
Hi Roger
Women’s Rossignol boards do tend to be quite narrow. Unfortunately I think the Myth is too narrow.
But there are a lot of other beginner boards that will work and with size 9 boots in the right length for your daughter. I think that the best length for her will be anywhere from a 144cm to 147cm and a waist width between 243mm and 249mm. Looking at this list the following would be good choices.
Rome Royal: The 144cm and 147cm would both work – the 147 probably just being the better option.
Ride Rapture: 147 – even though the weight recommendations only go up to 130lbs for this size, the 151 is too long, IMO, for your daughter. The 242mm waist width is on the narrower side but you’d probably get away with it
K2 Yeah Yeah: 147
Of course there are other options too. But unfortunately i think that the Rossi boards will be too narrow.
Hope this helps
Apprecaite your reply so much. I can not seem to find any info on the K2 Yeah Yeah. Do you have a link for it.
Hi Roger
Sorry brain fade there – K2 Yeah Yeah are bindings! I meant Salomon Oh Yeah! The link above should take you there.
What is your thought about the Solomon Oh Yeah for her?
I think the Salomon Oh Yeah (not the k2 Yeah Yeah as I said in my previous post!) could work. It’s the narrowest you’d want to go but I think it would be fine.
Sorry for the multiple questions. I would also be interested in your thoughts on beginner womens bindings. The links on your web site appear to be going to the top5 for men instead of women.
Hey Roger
Sorry about that – 2 brain fades in one day! I used to have the men’s and women’s beginner bindings on the same page and only recently separated them – and forgot to change the link. Thanks for pointing that out so I can fix it. The link to the women’s beginner bindings is below (it has the K2 Yeah Yeahs!).
>>Top 5 Women’s Snowboard Bindings for Beginners
Nate,
I LOVE your site and have been using it to research for my first set. I’ve rented for 2 years now. I am 5’5 -5’6 and weigh 127lbs. I’m currently looking at the Rossignol Tesla. I am in between 143 or 148, but I’m not sure which one to pick after looking at the Rossignol sizing chart. I still consider myself a progressing beginner. Which size would you recommend or if there is another board on the list I should lean towards let me know! Thank you for your help in advance!
Sarah
Hi Sarah
For the Tesla I would say that the 143cm is the best option.
If you’re looking at anything else on the list, I think if it fits between 142 and 145cm then it should be good but let me know if you’re thinking about another board and I can give you a specific size recommendation depending on the board. But I think the Tesla 143cm would be a good option for you.
Nate,
Thanks for your help. Last question. I was only worried about the 143 because I thought I was on the higher end of the weight spectrum for that board. I’m buying the 2016 Tesla Amptek in 143 then. I ordered the 148, but returned it after seeing your suggestion. I checked the weight suggestion for this board and it says I’m good up to 60kg. Would all of my gear affect it that much? I understand you want a shorter board for beginners so we can control it.
Hi Sarah
All of your gear will certainly add weight but I wouldn’t worry too much about the weight recommendations. You certainly take them into account but they’re more of a guideline and Rossi weight guidelines are always on the light side for some reason.
And, as you say, you want to size down for beginners. I wouldn’t worry that you’re towards the higher end, the 143 is still the best option.
I hope you enjoy your new board and have a great season!
Hi Nate!
I’m looking into buying the rossignol myth board after reading your review. I’ve been boarding for a while now but I’d say I’m still a beginner. I’m 5’6 and weigh about 120 pounds. Do you think the 144 would be the most appropriate choice for me?
Thanks!
Hi Deanna
Definitely the 144 – that will be the perfect size for you, IMO.
Hi Nate,
I’m learning a lot from your site – thanks! I could use your advice on getting a new board – still like a beginner as I don’t get to go often, but last 2 times I caught an edge and landed badly – both times were at the end of day when tired (hoping that’s why …).
Looking to improve and have fun with turns, switch-rides and lil pops – not after speed or pipes or parks. 5’5 160. Current board is 2014 ride compact 153.
Would love to hear your suggestions! Jen
Hi Jen
For starters I would size down a little bit. A 153 would be a good size for you if you were a more advanced rider. But a shorter length will be an easier more catch-free, more casual fun ride. I think that’s the first thing that you need to do for your new board. I would choose anything from a 149 to 151cm – this will partly depend on the particular board.
Then of course there are other aspects of a snowboard that will make it easy to ride, easy to turn, catch-free etc.
All the boards on this list were chosen to have those qualities. They’re not the only ones out there of course but they’re a good place to start. For the boards in this list I would go with the following sizes:
~ Myth: 149cm
~ Royal: 150cm
~ Rapture: 151cm
~ Tesla: 148cm
~ Oh Yeah: 151cm
Don’t worry too much if you’re not perfectly in the manufacturers weight recommendations.
If you’d like more options just let me know and I’ll give you a longer list.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Your post, comments and other pages are really a big help – thank you!
I’ve been thinking about getting a new board for a while, so I just did it – 151 Oh Yeah!
(I liked the myth too, but think it may be too narrow)
In a few weeks I’ll get to see what I can do with it – yay! At my skill level, not sure it’ll make much difference but I’m so looking forward to finding out. Jen
Great work Jen!
Hope you enjoy your new board and have a great season! Let me know what you think of it after you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Dear Nate,
I have a daughter who just turned 12. Should I get her women’s board or children’s board? She is 4’11” and 86lbs. Thank you.
Sun
Hi Sun
I think that she would need a board that is around 134cm long if she is an experienced rider. If she is a beginner, then I’d say anything from a 130 to a 132 (generally speaking though it can depend on the particular board).
I can’t think of any women’s boards that run down to that size, so I think you’ll be better off getting a girls board. It might be tempting to buy her something longer that she can grow into but the downside to doing that is that it makes it more difficult for her to learn and less enjoyable. Assuming she is a beginner, I wouldn’t go any longer than 134 and I’d only go that long if you want to get her something to grow into – but you’d still need a girls board at that size.
If you find a particular board, let me know and I can recommend a size and say whether or not I think it’s good for a beginner, if you’d like.
THANK YOU!!! I live in Korea and the children’s deck option is limited. BATALEON MINI SHRED BOY 130, Burton Custom Smalls 130, Burton Chicklet 130, BURTON CHOPPER LTD MARVEL 130
These are what I was able to find online before I do the tour of the stores. My daughter is a tomboy who would not go near pink, but if that is the better board for her…
Thank you for your help. I feel well educated to actually shop!
Sun
You’re very welcome Sun.
I think out of the 4 you mentioned there, the Burton Chopper, the Bataleon Minishred and the Burton Chicklet would be your best options. Since she doesn’t like pink, the Chopper or Minishred are probably the best. The Custom Smalls is a bit more of an advanced board.
Hope she loves the board you get for her!
Hey Nate,
I’m 5’10 and 125 pounds (tall and skinny), size 9 shoe. Im curious as what board would help me ride the slowest? LOL. The speed is what always scares me as much as I try to ‘carve’/ride horizontally. I hate feeling out of control, especially when I’m really catching speed. bbIm definitely a super beginnner but any gear advice would help!
Hi nl
Typically speaking, there are two main types of snowboard bases, Sintered and Extruded (there are others but we don’t need to get into them here). A sintered base will produce a faster ride than an extruded base. That’s why I have allocated more points for an extruded base for beginner boards (because like yourself, most beginners don’t want to ride too fast).
All boards on this list, apart from the Rossi Tesla, have extruded bases. But the base it not the only thing that determines speed. The shape of the snowboard, the side-cut of the board, the materials its made from and the camber profile all play a part too. The other thing that can make a board faster or slower is its length.
A directional or tapered directional shape will typically be faster than a twin shape. A camber profile that has “steep” camber in it will typically ride faster. A shallower side-cut will ride faster etc. And a longer board will ride faster.
That’s the complicated answer. The easy answer is, the boards in this list are all average or below average in terms of speed (and in this case that’s a good thing). The Tesla probably would start out accelerating faster than the others – but if you didn’t wax it for a while it would slow down considerably. But you’d have a few days to let it slow up.
Also if you go for a shorter length (which is recommended for a beginner not just because of the slower speed but also because a shorter board is easier to maneuver) it will take some more speed off.
So for you, if you were an advanced rider you’d be best on roughly (depending on the board) a 150cm long board. But because you are a beginner then something 145 to 147 is a better bet. A few centimeters can make a real difference.
We also need to take width into account because we don’t want your feet to hang too far over the edges – but at the same time you don’t want them too far inside either. A 1cm to 2cm boot overhang on each edge is ideal. For a women’s size 9 anything with a waist width between 242mm and 250mm should be ok.
So for these boards I think the following will be your best bets:
~ Salomon Oh Yeah: 147cm (242mm waist)
~ Ride Rapture: 147cm (242mm waist)
~ Rome Royal: 147cm (246mm waist)
I think that the Rossi boards are a little bit too narrow for your boots in the lengths that would be best for you. Of the above 3, I think the Rome Royal is in the best size because you’ll get a bit of extra stability – but the other two would work well too.
These obviously aren’t the only options but I think these 3 would be great options for you.
Hope this helps
Wow, Thank You so much for your quickness and efficiency! I truly appreciate it!!! Cheers to you NATE!
Hi nl.
You’re very welcome! I hope you have a great season and hope you enjoy whichever board you end up getting.
Hey Nate,
I would love to have your opinion which board to choose. I have been riding for past few years for 3-4 days per year so every year is like learning again. My problem is catching edges and afraid too much of speed. I’m still learning to link turns, sometimes I can do it sometimes not. I’m getting frustrated with myself because of lack confidence. I just need easy board so I can finally have fun riding it and be less scare of mowing the snow with my face. What size should I get I’m 5’3″ and weight 110-112lb. Thank you
Hi Maggie
All of the boards in this list have been picked for their ease of riding so you’re in the right place.
In terms of size, I’d go with something around 137 to 139cm. If you were to pick one of the boards here I’d say go with the following sizes:
~ Salomon Oh Yeah 138cm
~ Rosi Tesla 139cm
~ Ride Rapture 138cm
~ Rome Royal – I’d rule this one out just because it doesn’t have a suitable size, IMO
~ Rossignol Myth 139cm
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your advise.
The list of boards you mention above. Have you list them as with the most advisable as number one and so on. As you mentioned on my other comment that Rossignol Myth is narrow one. Should I reconsider it with one from your list and if yes those boots and bindings I mention before would work also?
I just don’t know if would be better have wider one. I want really easy ride 🙂
Thank you
Hi Maggie
Yes they are in order but size is just as important. There’s not too much between them, so if number 10 has a better size for you than number 1, then that would be the better option. You can check out the link below for more options (these 5 plus another 10) if you’d like more options.
~ Beginner Snowboards Ratings Catalog (scroll down to get to the women’s options)
In terms of being too narrow – that would depend on your boot size. If your boots are suitable for the width, then that narrowness would work for you. Sorry if you’ve already told me this (I can’t recall your previous comment) but if you can let me know your boot size I can advise you on width.
Hope this answers your questions.
Thank you Nate for your advise.
I would like to know if combination
Burton mint boots size 7, Citizen Snowboard bindings in medium and Rossignol myth 139cm would work and overhang wouldn’t be a problem?
Also I was considering the same boots and bindings but with Rossignol Tesla 139cm snowboard bc better price but it is sintered as you mentioned it would makes it faster. Should I worry about it? Is it big difference in speed bc I’m not fun of too much speed. If you still recommend it what about overhand with this board?
Thank you again.
Hi Maggie
I think that you would be fine with that setup. For size 7s I’d usually say not to go less than 235mm waist width but Burton boots have a low profile outersole so the 234mm waist width on the Rossi Myth 139cm will be fine for those boots. And the Burton Citizen mediums would work with that setup too.
The same applies for the Tesla – this will work with the Mint size 7s and Citizen mediums. You will get more accelaration out of a fully waxed sintered base. But this board will slow up over time if you don’t wax it. If you’re worried about too much speed, then I think that the Myth would be the better option but otherwise the Tesla would be fine.
Hey Nate, I was wondering when choosing the board length what is most important height or weight? I’m asking bc you recommended for Rossignol Tesla or Mint 139cm for me.
I wrote to you that I’m 5’3″ 110-112lb but I’m really 5’4″ 110-112lb after measuring myself. Would that make any difference in choosing board length or it would be still the same length recommendation for the boards you gave me.
Thanks again.
Hi Maggie
I would still go for the 139cm for you. Weight is the most important factor when it comes to board length. Because of stance width, the height is still a factor – but the difference of 1″ at the same weight doesn’t change the size recommendation for you.
hello there. your site is super helpful. i am 5’5″, 125ish pounds. i’ve been boarding about 5 times, but always a rental. i am going out on several trips this season and want to buy the right board. would you recommend the Arbor Ethos Rocker for a beginner? is it too beginner for someone that has been out a few times? I am thinking 144cm or 147cm. what do you recommend? would you recommend this board at all? THANK YOU!
Hi Neda
Thanks for your message.
I’m not that familiar with the Arbor Ethos Rocker but just looking at the specs, I think this would make a good beginner board. I wouldn’t usually say to go with a continuous rocker profile but in this case it sounds like the rocker is mellow and it gets more melow towards the tip and tail. I don’t think it’s too beginner. Depending on the style of riding you eventually get into you may have to upgrade once you become more advanced but that wouldn’t be for a while.
In terms of size, I think that the 144cm is definitely the best size for you. I think the 147 would be too long for you and the 141 would be too short.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, I was wondering when choosing the board length what is most important height or weight? I’m asking bc you recommended for Rossignol Tesla or Mint 139cm for me.
I wrote to you that I’m 5’3″ 110-112lb but I’m really 5’4″ 110-112lb after measuring myself. Would that make any difference in choosing board length or it would be still the same length recommendation for the boards you gave me.
Thanks again.
Hi Maggie
I replied to this above. Please see the comment above. Hope you have great holidays and a great season. Let me know if you have any other questions
Hey Nate! So I am a beginner and have used my husbands old board for the past two season. I am 5’6″ 145-150. I would like a board that I can advance with and use for a bit. I have the Burton imprint 1 boots size 8.5. What would you recommend for me? I was thinking the rossingol myth?
Hi Jay
The Myth is an option and certainly something that you will be able to progress quickly on. It will be on the narrow size for your boots but since you have Burton boots (which have a smaller outersole) you should be ok. I would recommend the 149cm size.
If you like the look of the Rossignol boards, then the Tesla is another option. For that I would go for the 148cm.
Whatever you go for, I imagine that you will enjoy having a narrower women’s board over a men’s board. Just a warning that the Rossi boards are even narrow for women’s boards so they will feel very different to the men’s board you’ve been riding. But once you get used to it, it will be much more enjoyable and take much less effort to turn on.
Note that Imprint is the name of the liner in Burton boots so I’m not sure which boots you have exactly – these comments are assuming that you have women’s boots and they are US women’s size 8.5. If they are men’s US8.5, then the two Rossi boards will be too narrow.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
After riding for a few years, i’ve finally decided to take the plunge and buy my very first snowboard! I’ve been using your website and a few other resources to help me decide, but i’d love to have some direct input from you.
I’d say i’m at a beginner-intermediate level and motivated to quickly progress my skills. I’m a bit of a speed demon and enjoy racing down the piste, so that’s something that I look for in a board. Right now, i’m not into learning tricks/ jumping/ all that cool flashy stuff; just focused on really nailing the basics down (currently having a lot of difficulty/ lack confidence going toeside without falling).
Specs:
Boot size 7
5’5″
130-135 pounds
I know the board length is slightly different for each manufacturer, but the last time I rented a board, I was measured 146 for what I believe was a Burton board.
Price isn’t too much of a deterrent for me – I’m currently looking at the Yes Emoticon, Yes Basic, and Roxy Banana Smoothie, but i’d love to hear what other suggestions you have for me. Boot and binding recommendations would be great as well!
Hi Ellen
Thanks for your message.
I would say the 145-146 is about the right size for you. It differs a little bit board to board but generally speaking I think that would be a good range to look at.
I think that the YES Emoticon would be a great option for you from what you’re describing. It’s a great board for beginner to intermediate riders but it’s also good for more advanced riders so it’s a good one to progress on. The 146cm would be the best size for that. And the width of that board would also be just right for your boot size.
I wouldn’t go for the Basic. The only reason for this is that it would too wide for your boot size. When the board is too wide for you it makes it physically more difficult to apply pressure to the edges and therefore makes turning more of a chore rather than being smooth and effortless.
The Banana Smoothie is also a good board for beginners/intermediate riders but not as good as the Emoticon (in my opinion) and probably not as good for what you want to be doing. It will have a looser feel – whereas the YES Emoticon will feel more stable. The Banana Smoothie would have been a good option if you were more interested in riding freestyle.
For bindings and boots check out the links below for a place to get started. If you have any questions about any of those let me know.
~ My Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Bindings for Women
~ My Top 5 Beginner Snowboard Boots for Women
For a lot of people the reason they are less competent/confident on their toe edge is that they aren’t bending their knees enough when on that toe edge. It can sometimes feel like you’re bending them more than you are. This isn’t necessarily the solution to that but it’s something to think about.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Thank you for these precious advises, I have now a more precise vue of what I want/need. I have a beginner to intermediate level. I started last month during a week, I do turns but it appears that rent a rocker board so I think this is part why I did not feel stable at high speed (+ the icy slope and my lack of experience)…
After researchs, I saw the Yes Emoticon board which fulfills many if the criteria for a beginner board you explained, except the flex (6/10).
What do you think about that board?
Hi Anne
As I was reading your comment, the first board that came into my head was the YES Emoticon! It is a very good beginner board and is also very good in icy conditions. Don’t worry about the 6/10 flex rating – in reality (in my opinion) the YES Emoticon is really a 4/10 flex rating.
The Emoticon would have made this list – the only reason it’s not on this list is that it looses points for not being as low price as some of the others on this list – but otherwise it is a very good board for beginners.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I have been looking at getting a board this season but i am still pretty new. I have been up a couple of times in the last two years but still have trouble connecting my turns and on toe side. I am around 5’5 or 5’6 and usually somewhere between 135-145. I was looking at the boards you mentioned above but still unsure. I am considering somewhere around a 147. I have been on several boards in a range from a 143 to a 152 (rentals were not consistent). I felt like the 152 was to big but struggled with the 143 as well. However, I am having trouble finding the Myth in the 149 which i think is the size for that I would prefer and was undecided about some of the others in the list. So I was wondering if you have an specific recommendations or any other good beginner board suggestions that aren’t in the above list?
Also do you have any reviews on the Burton Starstruck Boots?
Thanks!
Kara
Hi Kara
I agree that something around that 146cm or 147cm mark is a good size for you. 152cm definitely too big and 143cm too small. So I agree with your sizing. It’s funny how far off rental places can be sometimes.
I can’t seem to find the Myth anywhere either. Popular board this season.
Anything else on this list would be suitable and for you I would go with the following sizes:
Salomon Oh Yeah: 147cm
Rossignol Tesla: 148cm
Ride Rapture: 147cm
Rome Royal: 147cm
If you want some more options check out the following link – it has these 5 and then another 10 options. Once you’re on the page scroll down to find the women’s options.
~ Beginner Snowboards Catalog
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thanks for the other ideas. I have been looking around still and I may have found a 149 Myth. However, I was also looking at the K2 First Lite 150 and was wondering how you would compare the two and if besides price you would still recommend the Myth over the First Lite.
Also, are there any particular bindings you would recommend for those two boards?
Thanks,
Kara
Hi Kara
I would say that there isn’t too much difference in the two boards in terms of how good they are for beginners. They are both very good beginner boards. The Myth only slightly more ideal but really they would both be fine.
The only thing I would say is that, based on previous comments, I think that the 146cm would be the better size for you for the First Lite. I think between the Myth 149cm and the First Lite 146cm, I think that the First Lite 146cm would be the best choice. But between the Myth 149cm and the First Lite 150cm, that the Myth 149cm would be the better choice.
Hope this helps
In terms of bindings, check out the link below. I think anything in there will pair well with either of these boards.
~ Top 5 Women’s Snowboard Bindings for Beginners
Hello,
First off all, thanks for the detailed info!
I am a beginner to beginner-intermediate, but love it so I want to buy my own board.
I am 160 cm in height and weigh 54kg.
I can’t seem to find the Myth anywhere but did find a ‘2016 Ride Rapture 138cm Women’s Snowboard’ for 260 dollars.
Is this too short for me?
I also found a ‘2016 143cm Rossignol Tesla Amptek’ for 180 dollars! But I an worried about the sinitered base.
What do you think?
Thanks !
I am female btw. 🙂
And did manage to find a Rossi Myth 2017 for 220 Euro’s.
Should I take the 139 or 144 ?
Hi Andro
I think that the Rapture 138cm is probably a little bit too short for you. Not by much though. Generally speaking something between a 140cm and a 142cm would be what I would be looking at for you – but it does depend on the particular board to some extent.
I think the Tesla in a 143cm is a good size for you and I wouldn’t worry too much about the sintered base. It does require more regular waxing and will be a little bit faster – if that’s an issue then it’s not ideal but if that doesn’t bother you, then the Tesla 143cm would be a good choice.
It’s a tough one between the 139 and 144 Myth. The 139 will have the advantage of being really easy to maneuver and turn which would probably be appreciated if you were a very beginner but since you are bordering on intermediate maybe the 144cm is the better bet, IMO. It will be a bit more stable at that longer length and should be a good length for you.
Hope this helps.
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your research! This is great. As a new boarder (or trying to be) I want to stop renting and buying my own. Looking at your recommendations I want to pick one but am having troubles with my height/weight ratio measurement. I am 5’0 and weight 140 (female), based on my weight it looks like I might be closer to 148cm but then feel it might be too long for me. I have taken but 3 lessons and have started to feel comfortable coming down the mountain but still feel a bit uneasy and know I will get better with more mileage. Out of your recommendations what would you suggest I really consider?
Thanks,
Hi Em
Thanks for your comments. The weight recommendations only take weight into consideration. In my opinion, the size of your snowboard should incorporate your height as well – weight is the main consideration but height comes into it too. For you I would say that 148cm is definitely too long, especially as a beginner. Once you are a more experienced rider then I’d say up to 147cm but for now I would say you should look in the 143cm to 145cm range if possible, depending on the board.
So from this list I’d say:
Salomon Sight: 143cm
Rossignol Tesla: 143cm
Ride Rapture: Probably not a suitable size in there
Rome Royal: 144cm
Rossignol Myth: 144cm
Hope this helps
Thank you, very helpful and will take your recommendations in mind!
You’re very welcome Em. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
Great info you have here! I consider myself between beginner and intermediate, but probably more of a beginner these days. I use to snowboard every weekend during snow season when I was in college, but the last 6 years has been more casual (getting married, buying a house, having a kid, working full time). I want to get back into it again and would like your advice on a new board. I am 4’11” and 150 pounds. Thanks so much !
Thanks Marie
For you I would go with something that’s between 143cm and 145cm, this is taking into consideration your physical specs and the fact that you are beginner bordering on intermediate. For this list I would say the following (same as for the last person):
Salomon Sight: 143cm
Rossignol Tesla: 143cm
Ride Rapture: Probably not a suitable size in there
Rome Royal: 144cm
Rossignol Myth: 144cm
If you want more options, check out the next link (scroll down on the page after clicking the link to find the women’s boards).
~ Beginner Snowboards Ratings Catalog Page
Hope this helps
Hello there,
Thank you so much for all the information.
I am a beginner with several seasons behind and now I am thinking of buying my own deck, Rossi Myth. I am not interested of hanging in the park so I am not quite sure if Rossi Myth as a freestyle board would be right for me.
Also I am doubting the size. If I should go for a 149 cm or 154 cm. I am 172 cm tall and weigh 68 kg.
Would be grateful for some advice.
Hi Joana
Thanks for your message.
A lot of freestyle boards are also very good for beginners. You don’t have to ride them in the park either. But if you’re still concerned about that you could look at the Rossiignol Frenemy or the YES Emoticon. They’re a bit more expensive but still great beginner boards and more all-mountain oriented.
In terms of size I would say you want something around around a 149cm to 151cm as a beginner. In the case of the Myth, I would go for the 149cm over the 154cm.
Hope this helps
THANK YFOR THESE SPECS. I JUST LEARNED TO SNOWBOARD. I RENTED A HARBO 140 I WAS FITTED DUCK FEET BECAUSE AT THE MOMENT I GO BOTH WAYS. HOWEVER. I AM 5’6′ 155LB. AND SINCE I ALSO LEARN TO STOP BOTH TOES AND HEEL, WHICH BOARD WOULD YOU RECOMMEND. I WAS LEARNING ON POWDER IN LAKE TAHOE NOW I WANT TO PRACTICE, BUT EAST COAST. I KNOW I WILL BE PRACTICING ON GRANULAR SNOW. AND I NEED TO BE ON ICE AS WELL. ALREADY HAD THAT UNFORTUNATE EXPERIENCE. OH I AM NOT SCREAMING HERE, MY CAP LOCK IS STUCK. BUT THIS WEBSITE IS GREAT. BUT I AM LOOKING FOR ONE THAT WILL HELP ME TURN LEFT AND RIGHT EASILY. AND I CAN ALSO PEDAL MY FEET TO SNAKE DOWN ON LOWER HILLS.
THANK YOU
Hi Veronica
Thanks for your message – I was wondering about the all caps, thanks for explaining!
It sounds like you need a board that is good for learning on but also good in ice and that you want to be able to keep riding in both directions easily.
In terms of size, based on your specs and your ability level, I would say anything between a 150cm and 152cm, generally speaking.
I think the following would be great choices for you. Though they didn’t make this list, they are all true twin, cenetered stanced boards (good for riding in both directions) all really good in icy conditions – and still rated well as beginner boards too. So I think they would be the most suitable for you. I have included the sizes I think would be best for you for each board.
Roxy Ally: 151cm
YES Emoticon: 152cm
GNU B-Nice: 151cm
The Rossignol Frenemy would also be a good option I think – only that it doesn’t have a centered stance which makes it harder (but still doable) for riding switch.
Hope this helps
Hi! I’m happy to have found your site!
I’m a female, adult, 5feet2, 108lbs.
Beginner and still practicing the novice turns and I don’t even know if I should be getting my own board at this time, or should I get better at this sport first?
I’m a goofy, and I’m not very keen in speed. I intend to get my basics done then start picking up butter and other tricks.
I actually shortlisted three boards, would you give me your inputs to each of them?
1. Salomon Gypsy 15/16 138cm
2. Salomon Oh Yeah 16/17 138cm
3. Salomon Men’s Sanchez 16/17 141cm
My most preferred option would be the Gypsy for aesthetic reasons =)
Thank you!!
Hi TT
I think you should definitely be getting your own gear – makes progression much faster in my opinion – check out the article at the link below to see all the reasons why I think buying is better than renting, in most cases.
~ Should I rent or buy a snowboard
I think the 137cm to 138cm is a good length for you. The Gypsy is a great beginner board so I that would be a great choice along with the Oh Yeah. And the 138cm length is a good size for both. I would be weary of the Sanchez 141cm just because I think it’s slightly too long for you as a beginner and also it’s likely too wide.
So if you like the looks of the Gypsy, then go for it, because it’s a great beginners board and in a good size for you.
Thank you for your feedback!
Can I ask if there’s any difference if I purchase the kid’s Salomon Gypsy 16/17 since they have 138cm too? The women’s gypsy 15/16 is sold out everywhere and i really like the tiger print on it..
Will it be fine for me to use that? My boots size is uk5 us7.
Hi TT
Thanks for letting me know your boot size. The Gypsy kids will be fine in terms of its width for your boot size. The only thing is that it’s softer flexing than the women’s version from what I can tell. But that doesn’t mean it’s not suitable. I think the girls version would be fine for you.
I would say definitely no to the Sanchez now as it will be too wide for your boot size.
Hi Nate,
Can I pair the Gypsy (either women’s or kids) with Union Juliet? Thank you!
Hi TT
Yeah the Gypsy and the Juliet would be a good pairing. For your boot size you should go with a size Medium.
Hey Nate,
I’m 5’2, 135lbs (last I checked) and am trying to decide which size I should get for the Myth (maybe Tesla). I’m planning on getting back into a regular workout routine and thus maybe losing some weight, and then since you recommend 3-5cm shorter for beginners, should I go with the 144 instead of the 149?
Thanks!
Hi Brenna
For your specs, even if they don’t change, I would definitely go for the 144cm for the Myth (143cm for Tesla). As a beginner you want to go down a few centimeters.
Also, Rossignol’s weight recommendations are on the light side compared to other boards, so I wouldn’t worry about it if you are a few pounds over their recommendations. Definitely the 144cm – the 149cm would be too long for you, IMO.
First, I really want to say that I’ve really come to appreciate your site as a reference. My wife and I have 3 young children, 6, 4, and 2, and are all about getting them outdoors and into every activity possible. We live only 30 minutes from the local snow resort and purchased a season pass this year for the family, and will likely be hitting the slopes 10-20 times a season all depending on what our schedules allow.
My wife is concerned about her knees, and at her friends advice picked up snowboarding as a more knee friendly alternative to skiing. She’s already been out 5 times this season, has been renting equipment, and considering this will be a many year activity for our family, it’s a no-brainer for her to get her own board, bindings, boots, etc.
Having done some research, I’m fairly set on getting her a Rossingol Frenemy. We live in VA, we get some snow routinely in the winter but the resorts rely heavily on the man-made kind to maintain the hills so things are fairly hard-pack and icy which I’ve heard the Frenemy is also ideal for. Further, she’ll be primarily All-Mountain.
The only thing I’m unsure of is what size to get her? She’s 5’9″ and 140-145lbs with a size 8 boot. Per the Rossingol size chart for the Frenemy, she’s on the end of the spectrum for the 150 and more in the range of the 153. She’s by no means a speed demon and more of a cautious rider if that helps any assessment?
Hi Damond
Thanks for your message.
I agree that the Rossignol Frenemy sounds like a good choice.
For a more advanced rider I would say that the 153cm would be a better choice. Also if your wife liked to ride fast then the 153cm would be a good length. But I think that the 150cm would actually suit her better.
She might be on the higher end of the weight recommendations but that will just make the board feel a little softer and a little more casual. Also, Rossignol weight recommendations are on the light side, typically.
Long story short, I think that the 150cm would be the best size.
Hope this helps
Hi there!
I had my eye on the Frenemy and even more so now that I’ve read your site. What size would you recommend for a beginner? I’ve started connected some turns here and there, and was a on a rental sized 147. I’m 5’6″ and weigh around 135-140.
I found the 150cm on sale, so I’m debating whether I should go for the 147 (+$60) or if 150 is ok for me.
Thanks,
Donna
Hi Donna
I think that the 147cm is going to be more fun and easier to progress on for you as a beginner. The 150cm is definitely not miles out of range but if it was me I would pay the extra $60 to get the 147cm. But if how much you’re spending is a big issue, then the 150cm is an option – it will just be a little bit of a steeper learning curve and maybe progression will be a little bit slower – maybe not, but that’s what I would expect.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much, Nate!
You’re very welcome Donna!
Hello!
First of all, this is a great article and your website is very insightful.
My wife is a complete beginner and she is 5’1 and 48kg. (7us – 4.5uk – 235mm boot). I read the previous comments and I believe her right size of board should be around 138 since she is a complete beginner, but I was wondering if you would suggest sticking to that exact length due to her height, weight and skills or maybe even considering a 139 or 140.
The boards I was looking at were:
Salomon Oh Yeah/Gypsy 138
Rossignol Tesla 139 (However I am a bit unsure about this since the amount of rocker seems very high and I am afraid it would be a much looser board compared to the previous two)
Never Summer Onyx 140 (Maybe still too long and looser than the Salomon due to the positionig of the camber under feet?)
Moreover, should the size increase while she gets more intermediate/advanced? I am already thinking ahead, I know, but I like to dream. I love the Yes Emoticon, but the shorter size is a 143, so probably once she gets more experienced we should still consider boards of a length of around 140 of the likes of the Jones Twin Sister maybe?
Thanks a lot!
Steve
Hi Steve
Yeah something around a 137cm to a 138cm is probably a good range to look at for your wife, IMO.
You could push out to 139cm but I don’t think she should go any longer than that.
The Tesla has Camber between the feet and underfoot so this board shouldn’t feel loose at all. The rocker is out towards the tips and tail which won’t make the board feel too loose but will help with easy turn initiation and make it less catchy – this board is designed to be an easier turner – but it’s also stable.
The Onyx 140cm I think is getting on the long side at this point.
All for the Oh Yeah and Gypsy and at this stage I think they come in the best sizes.
Some people – especially those who only ride a couple of days every year – stay with their beginner length to stay with a more casual ride. But if your wife was to improve and get quite good and want something with a bit more performance, then yeah up-sizing would be a good move down the line. But I think that 143cm would be getting a bit too long – unless she was wanting a more freeride/powder board and rode in the backcountry a lot.
Ideally she would start out on something 137 to 138 and then move up to something around 140cm (IMO) when/if she wants to upsize.
Hope this helps.
Hey there. I have a question on board size and would love to hear your thoughts. I am 5’2 and a half. I am right around 200 pounds. (I lost 165 pounds a few years back, so 200 is pretty damn good at this point). Anyway…..I own a 151 board. I hate it. I took 4 lessons with that board and never made it down the bunny hill. I want to set that board on fire and watch it burn. Today I was a Sierra at Tahoe on vacation and rented a 140cm board. It was a thousand times better. I actually made real progress and finally felt like I had some sort of control. I have never felt in control on the longer board. According to everything I read I basically should not be snowboarding at my weight (feck that)….or the board length recommendation is just stupidly large. Thoughts? Should I go ahead and order something (Maybe the Myth?) in a 140?
Hi Jennifer
First of all don’t listen to anybody who says you can’t snowboard at your weight – that’s complete BS.
Weight is a consideration in board length and height is too. But the other consideration that’s often overlooked is what you feel comfortable on and your personal preference.
The other thing to consider as well is that not all boards are the same – even of the same length. Length is an important consideration but there are other factors that can make a board easier or harder to ride for a beginner. So I’m not sure what the board is that you own – but it may be that it’s not a suitable beginner board – as well as not being a good length for you. If you want to know the best specs for beginner boards (IMO) you can check out the link below.
~ How to Choose a Beginner Snowboard
But if you want to skip that you’re on the right page here.
Another thing to consider is that one board at 140cm for example, might feel completely different to another board of the same length. But the boards in this list have been chosen specifically to be easy to learn on. So you don’t necessarily need to go as low as the 140cm you hired but it sounds like closer to 140cm is better for you than closer to 150cm.
With all that out of the way, I think the best sizes for the boards on this list, based on your specs and your preference for a shorter board are:
Salomon Oh Yeah: 143cm
Rossignol Tesla: 143cm
Ride Rapture: Probably not a suitable size in there
Rome Royal: 144cm
Rossignol Myth: 144cm
Hi Nate,
I really appreciate how thorough you are in your posts! They have been extremely helpful in my research.
I’m just starting to learn to snowboard; I’ve done a few snowboard lessons this season and I love it. I’m looking into getting my own gear, and I found a used Ride Rapture 2011 board in 138cm. I’m 5’4″ and 115 lbs, so I’m not sure if this board is long enough for me. Do you think this board will work for me?
Also, when looking for boards, do I need to take into account that I ride goofy? Do boards typically come in regular or goofy versions, or is it all the same?
Thank you!
Hi Danielle
You don’t have to worry if you are regular or goofy. It’s all the same. You’ll just the way that you set up your bindings on your board. The only board that I can think of that is goofy and regular specific is the GNU Zoid but that’s a specialized board and very atypical.
I think the 138cm is probably the shortest you should go but it’s doable (ideally 140cm to 142cm)
My only concern would be that the Ride Rapture 2011 version had a different camber profile – it’s all rocker (the newer versions are flat to rocker). All rocker (aka Continuous Rocker) used to be recommended for beginners but not as much these days. The only reason I wouldn’t go there is that a continuous rocker board can feel quite loose underfoot. It’s good to have a little bit of a flat section or some mild camber underfoot for a bit more stability. That said, continuous rocker boards are super easy to turn on and tend to be pretty catch-free – they’re just quite loose feeling.
So I think it will work but it’s probably not ideal.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am having a tough time deciding between a 2016 myth and a 2017 roxy ally for my girlfriend. And was wondering if there was really that big of a difference between the two?
Hi Sean
There are a couple of differences between these boards.
The major one probably being that the Myth has a hybrid camber profile and the Ally has basically a continuous rocker profile (but with some flat sections towards the inserts.
Some of the other differences are that the Ally has a sintered base (extruded on the Myth) – this is part of the reason why the Ally is more expensive. Also the Ally has better edge-hold in icy conditions.
I’d say that the Ally would be the better snowboard, generally speaking – but for a beginner, the Myth would be easier to learn on.
Hope this helps with your decision. Let me know what you go with if you want a size recommendation.
I have decided to go with the myth since its easier to learn on, and she is still a beginner. She is 5’7 and 130lbs. She has ridden on 140 rental board and seemed to like it, I was leaning towards the 144 with the myth? What would be your recommendation for the size I get her? Thanks for all the info, it has been a huge help!
Hi Sean
You’re very welcome.
I think your spot on with the 144cm. I think that will def be the best size for her for the Myth.
Hope she enjoys the new board!
Hey Nate, my friend is deciding to stop renting and get her own beginner board. We found a 2015 Ride Rapture at the store for $160, but looking at Ride’s table, a 143 Rapture only has a supported weight of 70-100 which is really low. My friend is 5’4 and 120 lbs, so looking at the tables, recommended length would be 145-147. Subtracting 2-5cm for beginner, it’d put a 143 to be a perfect length.
Her boot size is 8, so somewhere at the 242mm range, but it looks like most boards at 143-145 are at the 240mm range. For the Rapture, it looks like it’s mainly just the weight recommendation issue.
We also found a Rossignol Tesla on sale, but the Waist Width for that board in 143 is 236, so that would be 6mm short of the recommended 242.
Thoughts?
Thanks!
Hi Victor
I think the 143cm Rapture would be fine for your friend.
I’m not sure why the weight recommendations are so low for the Rapture (and other women’s Ride boards). It’s not like it has a shorter effective edge compared to its length or anything like that – so I’m not sure the reasoning beyond their weight recommendations there. I tend to consider the weight recommendations but definitely not use them as a hard and fast rule.
The waist width at 240mm would be absolutely fine for your friend with size 8.0s.
The Rossi Tesla would be pushing it in terms of being too narrow. She might fit on it – and certainly as a beginner you’re not necessarily right up on your edges as much – but it would be risking it for being too narrow.
Hi Nate! Thank you for all you info and advice! My specs are 5’2 and 105 lbs, sz 6 boot. I was considering the rossi myth, but board in an area where snow is consistently hard packed/icy. Could you recommend a beginners board that’s more suitable for these conditions for a beginner? Thanks in advance!!
Hi Anne
Thanks for your message.
In my opinion the best beginner boards for anyone who is in icy/hard conditions a lot are the Rossignol Frenemy and the YES Emoticon. They cost a little more than the others on this list (but are still reasonably priced) which is the only reason they didn’t also make the top 5.
In terms of sizing, I think that the following would suit you best:
Rossignol Frenemy: 144cm
YES Emoticon: 143cm
Ideally, I’d prefer to see you on something like a 138cm to 140cm, for your height/weight and the fact you are a beginner, but these boards don’t come in sizes that small.
Actually, another option that’s good in icy conditions and comes in a 139 is the Roxy Ally. This is also a great beginner board option – maybe not as ideal as the other 2 for a beginner – but pretty close and I think the 139cm size would actually make it better overall for you.
Hope this helps.
Thank you so so much nate!! Will definitely be picking on your suggestions!!
You’re very welcome Anne – hope you have a great season!
Hi Nate, Your site is great and your response rate amazing. My GF is looking to replace a snowboard that was lost in a move a few years ago. It was a 12 year old deck so tech has come a long way. She is 5’3 120 lbs we were looking at different sets ups and found a 145 custom smalls flying V, we know it’s a junior board but do you think it would work for someone her size? It’s been a few years but at one point she did ride regularly.
Hi Dan
In terms of size I’d say that the 145cm is a good size for your girlfriend, assuming she will get back up to a reasonable level reasonably quickly – and assuming she’s more of an all-mountain rider than a freestyle rider?
If she was a complete beginner, then I’d prefer to see her on something between a 140cm and 142cm but she’s probably ok on a 145cm if she’s ridden quite a bit in the past. Though, ideally, taking at least something off that 145 mark might help her to get started again (of course it’s not all about size but it is one factor).
I don’t know much about junior/kids boards but I am assuming this would just be a smaller version of the custom flying v – but I couldn’t say for sure (actually just comparing the specs, the kids board looks like it’s a bit different to the adult version). That’s not to say it wouldn’t be fine for her.
The the only thing I would be concerned about is the width of the 145cm – i.e. could be a little bit too wide for her. Can you let me know her boot size and I can estimate whether or not the width would be ok.
I don’t currently put any focus on kids boards – so I couldn’t say for sure but I think it would be ok. My biggest concern would be the width.
Thanks for the reply. I guess the concept of Junior boards is new to me as they didn’t exist when either of us started snowboarding and you had to physically have holes drilled to mount your bindings.
Both of us started riding in the mid 90’s but are both coming off of a fairly long hiatus(15 years for myself and somewhat less for her). Gear has come a long way and we’re trying to sift through it all.
She wears a 6.5 boot if that helps. I also look up the specs and did notice some slight variations in shape etc. All in all it looks like a nice set up I just didn’t know if a significant measure of quality was lost on the junior equipment.
Currently, I’m riding a Nug flying V which I love in good snow but have experienced washiness on ice which I’ve read is a common issue with the profile. It’s hard to complain because even at its worst it’s still lightyears ahead of what I was riding over a decade ago.
Thanks again for your feedback.
Hi Dan
I think that the 145 would be a bit too wide (245mm waist width) – with a 6.5 boot I’d prefer to see her on something with a waist width between 233mm and 240mm. Just that when the board gets too wide, it can become slower from edge to edge and more difficult physically to initiate turns. The 140cm version (238mm waist) would work fine width-wise. It’s just whether that is then starting to get too short in length for her.
The Nug Flying V isn’t known for being great in hard/icy conditions. Definitely a good snow board. And, like you say, a lot of the Flying V Burton boards in that same boat. Super fun on good snow but a bit sketchy on harder stuff.
Hope this helps and welcome back to snowboarding!
Thanks, we will take a look at the board shop for your recommendations and some of those you have made on some of your other threads while at the shop this weekend.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking at getting the Ride Rapture (found a good deal for the ’16 model). I’m 5’2″, 110lb, size 7 boots – would you recommend the 139cm or 143cm? I’ve gone snowboarding a few times and still have trouble linking turns.
Thanks!
Hi Allie
For you I’d say go for the 139cm, based on your specs and your ability level. Ride’s weight recommendations really are low, IMO. I wouldn’t pay too much attention to those. I’d say 139cm would be your best choice.
Thank you for your help, Nate! Can’t wait for my new board to arrive
You’re very welcome Allie. Hope you enjoy your new board and have an awesome rest of your season!
Hi Nate
I’m looking to purchase a new board, I’m 5’2″ 118 lbs. beginner/ intermediate and I can link my turns but have a hard time when it’s icy. I’m interested in getting either rossignol myth or ride rapture but what size would you recommend for each of them?
Thank you!
Hi Rolyn
For the Myth I would say go with the 139cm – you’d also get away with the 144cm but I think the 139cm would be a slightly better size for you.
For the Rapture, I think the 143cm would be best.
I think you should also consider the Rossignol Frenemy (144cm) and the YES Emoticon (143cm) and the Roxy Ally (143cm or 139cm). These boards are good beginner/intermediate boards that are also really good in icy conditions – they might give you a bit more confidence when it’s icy.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for all your suggestions. I bought the myth 139 and I get to try it on Presidents’ Day weekend. Hopefully I’ll get it on time 😄
Thanks again- Rolyn
You’re very welcome Rolyn.
Hopefully it gets there in time and you have an awesome weekend on your new board!
Hi there!
So I’m 5’8 and 135 pounds and I was wondering if I could get your advice on the right size snowboard. I’d say I’m somewhere between beginner and intermediate and have only used rental boards. Everyone I know skis and can’t help me out with sizing so I’m trying to navigate my way through a lot of advice on the internet haha. Any feedback would be great!
Thanks in advance! 🙂
Hi Abby
Always hard to sift through everything that’s out there online.
I would be looking at a range of around 148cm to 150cm if I was you. It will depend slightly on the board in some cases but that’s a general range that I think would suit you well. If you have a specific board that you are keen on, I would be happy to recommend a size for that specific board. Also if you could let me know your boot size, then I can also recommend a good width for you too.
Stay strong as a snowboarder among skiers! 😉
Thanks so much for the reply!
So I’ve found a Rossignol Myth 149 (that I think you would agree is a good choice considering it’s on your list haha) that I think is what I’m going to go for! I typically wear a size 9 boot and was wondering if it would be ok with the Myth board and what type of bindings you might suggest to go with it?
Thanks again 🙂
Hi Abbey
Yes, I definitely recommend the Myth for beginners! My only concern for you is that it might just be on the narrow size for you. I would normally suggest going with something that has a waist width of around 244mm to 250mm. That’s not to say that you would’t fit on the Myth 149 (238mm waist) but it’s getting into the territory of risking being too narrow. If you have low profile boots, then I’d say you’d be fine – but if you are renting boots, then chances are they won’t be low profile.
In terms of bindings, check out the following posts to get an idea of your sizing (different brands have different sizing) and for some ideas for some good beginner bindings.
~ Snowboard Binding Sizing
~ Top 5 Women’s Snowboard Bindings
wow I never even thought about width haha. So I’ve been looking around for entry level boards and I’ve found a Burton Genie 150 and it has a width of 244. Do you think this one would be better considering my boot size? I know it has channel bindings but I was wondering what your thoughts are on them?
Thanks again 🙂
Hi Abby
I think the Burton Genie would be a great option. It’s a good board for beginners and you’ll definitely be safer going with that width.
EST bindings (that go on the channel system) are generally good quality. And you can actually put most brand’s bindings on a board with the channel system these days. Most binding companies make their bindings compatible – so I wouldn’t worry about the bindings aspect. the channel system itself works well in my opinion and EST bindings are great – but you don’t have to go with them, you can use other bindings – just make sure that they are channel system compatible before buying them.
Just one more thing – and sorry to be a pain with this (it’s my job to get you on the right board :-), what kind of snow conditions do you typically ride in? Just that the only downside with the Genie is that it’s not particularly good in icy conditions. If you aren’t in icy conditions that much, then it’ll be absolutely fine – but if you are on the East Coast or somewhere else that gets icy often, then you might want to look at other options.
Thank you so much! I’ve found bindings and a genie board as a package deal and I’m really excited to finish the season out with them. I live on the West coast in Canada and I typically go to Whistler for snowboarding and I’ve never had a huge problem with ice so I think I should be ok. (normally a lot of powder!)
Thanks for all your help, I really appreciate it!
Abby 🙂
Hey Abby
You’re very welcome. You should definitely have no major issue with ice at Whistler. I frequent there regularly and it’s always been good snow up there. Hope you enjoy your new setup and the rest of the season!
Hi Nate!
I was wondering what kind of board you might recommend for me. I am 5′ 3” and 115 lbs. I am probably an early intermediate snowboarder, but I am learning fast. I have been renting a 140 K2 board (not sure what model or the specs) but I feel like next season I’ll be ready for an intermediate board, which is what I’m intending to buy for. Do you think I’m jumping the gun a little by trying to buy a board a little ahead of my current skill? I am typically a snow skier, and I used to race downhill alpine skiing. So I am used to weight and speed, but I’m not sure how my preferred ski style will transfer over to snowboarding. I am currently looking at a directional twin board, but am unsure what kind of other specs I should be looking for in a board. I was hoping you could point me in the right direction.
Hi Chloe
I think going a step up at your stage is fine. I just wouldn’t go too many steps up, if you know what I mean. So, I wouldn’t go out and buy the most advanced, stiffest freeride board you can find. But certainly a step above the beginner board should be fine for you if you feel you’re at an intermediate level and progressing quickly.
To me it sounds like an all mountain board would suit you. You can check out the link below if you want to see my top 6 women’s all mountain boards. Most of those boards are around a medium flex – which is a little stiffer than the beginner boards here – so a bit more challenging to ride in that sense (flex isn’t everything but it’s one factor). But they’ll also be better with handling at speed and if you ever go off piste/backcountry or think you want to soon, then they’ll also be better in deeper snow conditions when you encounter them.
Probably the Diva and the Aura are the most challenging on that list and are maybe 2 steps up – but the rest are more easy going – but at the same time a bit above that beginner level. I think they all have directional-twin shapes – except for the Aura which has a directional shape – and a bit of a setback stance.
If you’d prefer to be centered on the board rather than setback, then an all-mountain-freestyle board would be a good option – the main thing is that you would loose a little bit in terms of float in powder – but they are easier to ride switch if that’s something that you want to be doing. I think if you are more focused on downhill, riding fast and more challenging terrain and potentially going off piste or backcountry in the future, then the all-mountain boards would be your best bet. But if you wanted a centered stance and wanted a slightly more freestyle oriented board then the all-mountain freestyle would be the way to go.
~ Top 6 Women’s All Mountain Snowboards
~ Top 5 All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
In terms of size I would say that something in the range 139cm to 143cm would work for you – leaning more towards the higher end of the range if you were going with an all-mountain board and the lower end of the range for an all-mountain-freestyle. Though this is only generally speaking – it can sometimes depend on the particular board. If you find something you like and want a specfic size recommendation for it, let me know and I’d be happy to give you my opinion.
Hope this helps you narrow down some options.
Hi Nate – I am a beginner snowboarder. I’ve been a beginner for a long time, as I only get on the mountain 1 or 2 times per year, then took a long break while my kids were little. I am definitely not a natural when it comes to athletics. We ski at Mount Washington on Vancouver Island, and I have remained on the “bunny hill”. I am able to turn, but often catch the front edge of my board when transitioning from the back to the front edge, resulting in falling (hence the bruised tail bone today from our first trip of the year yesterday). I am no speed demon – really don’t enjoy going too fast – especially when I’m not confident in my turns, so I end up cruising safely on my back edge most of the time.
Since my first time snowboarding about 15 years ago I have been using my husbands first board. It is a 155cm long, 25cm wide “Ride 1580″ board, which he bought used from a friend, so it is at least 15 years old. After another frustrating day on the mountain yesterday I suggested that maybe I need a different board, since I can’t seem to get past the level I am at. He thinks the board is fine – he learned just fine on it (he’s 170 lb and 6 foot 3″). He thinks I just need to go faster which will make the turning easier, but the thought of falling at even faster speeds is not appealing.
Anyways, before I give up all together, I want to know if you think a different board might make a difference. I am 5 ft 7” (172cm) and 130lbs (59kg). My boots are size 10 Thirty Two brand “STW Boa” style.
My girls are 8 and 10, and it was so fun to get on the mountain with them yesterday, but at age 42, it’s getting harder to bounce back from the falls! Would love to try and keep up with them at least for a little while longer. What board would you suggest for this cautious mom who’s content to play on the easy runs…no tricks or racing for me – just hoping to get down the hill with a few less bruises and a bit more dignity.
Thanks in advance for any advice/recommendations you might have.
Hi Melanie
I feel bad saying that you’ve been on the wrong board for 15 years – but I think you’ve been on the wrong board for 15 years, unfortunately.
For starters it’s way too long for you. As an advanced rider I’d put you on around a 150cm. as a beginner something between a 145cm and 147cm, generally speaking, would be a good size for you. That in itself is going to make a massive difference to how easy your board is to ride. A 155cm board for someone 170lb 6’3″ is going to be a very easy length to ride – but it’s a very difficult length to ride for someone with your specs.
And I don’t mean to go against your husband again (I’m guessing he’s a natural and/or has been riding/skiing since he was a kid?), but, in my opinion, just riding faster isn’t the way to progress. Once you get your confidence up you will naturally want to ride faster – but if the confidence isn’t there, then riding fast isn’t a good option.
The other thing that will make that board difficult to ride is that it’s almost certain to be a traditional camber board (because 15 years ago they pretty much all were). Yes you can learn to ride on a traditional camber board but it’s one of the hardest cambers to learn to ride. These days there are all sorts of camber profiles – and some are much easier than others to make turns on – particularly for beginners. And they’re definitely difficult to ride slow – so maybe your husband has a point about needing to ride faster on it! – but that’s one of the reasons they’re not a good beginner profile, because you need to ride faster before you really should be – that and they tend to be very catchy.
The width of your board is ok for you though – that’s about the only thing! Assuming you are a US Women’s size 10.0, then I would say you want to go with something roughly between 247mm (24.7cm) and 253mm (25.3cm) at the waist.
With all of that in mind, I think that the following would be great options for you:
~ Rome Royal 147cm (246mm waist) – I think this will be just wide enough for you and will be at a good length and is a very easy board to ride
The other boards on this list don’t have what I consider to be a good length to width ratio for your particular specs – so I would also suggest the following if you don’t like the look of the Royal or can’t find it in that size anywhere – these are men’s boards but they are men’s boards that will suit you much better than your current one:
~ YES Basic 146cm (247mm waist)
~ Rossignol District 146cm (246mm waist)
~ Rossignol Retox 147cm (248mm waist)
It will really make a big difference to get a board that is not only easier to ride but even more importantly, at a good size for you.
I also really recommend taking at least one lesson (but do so after you already have a new board) – it can make a real difference. If you really don’t want to take a lesson, check out my email course called the 7 Steps to Better Snowboarding. You can find it at the link below.
>>7 Steps to Better Snowboarding
Hope this helps – and I got to say you’re a real trooper toughing it out on that board for so long!
Hi again – Can’t thank you enough for taking the time to give me this info. I have been checking into things online, and it looks like the men’s Rossignol District comes in at a slightly cheaper price then the Rome Royal. I don’t care at all how the board looks, so just wondering how men’s and women’s board differ (besides the graphics)? Are they structured differently for our different body types? I will spend the bit of extra money on the Rome Royal if you think an actual women’s board would be better/more suitable for me for any reason, otherwise, I am leaning towards the men’s one.
As for the boot size, yes, I am a US womens size 10. I measured the bottom of the boot and its 30cm. I have “Technine elements” bindings. My husband thinks the 246mm waist will be fine for me – it is only very slightly smaller than my old board at 250mm.
So, I will await your final feedback before making my final decision.
Thanks again – I must say I feel validated by your comments about my now retired board with regards to all of the difficulties I’ve been having. Now I know it wasn’t all just me!! I have definitely earned a shiny new board just for me!
Melanie
Hi Melanie
You’re very welcome.
Men’s and women’s boards aren’t designed to be different anatomically really – typically speaking there are more women’s boards that are softer flexing and less that are stiff flexing compared to men’s boards. And often men’s boards are sized longer and wider – and are often too wide – so it’s not always that women are compatible with men’s boards – and it’s sometimes the case that men are more compatible with women’s boards. But there isn’t really any specific design features that I’d be too worried about.
When it comes to bindings and boots it’s a different story – in that case it’s a good idea to go with women’s specific – and usually it’s good to go with a women’s specific board but only really for sizing reasons. Since the District comes in a size that is appropriate for you, it’s a suitable board.
You have definitely earned that shiny new board!
hi nate, please help. i am a total beginner and am looking for a good board for beginners while keeping the price as low as possible. i found a burton genie board that is very well priced, on sale. what are your thoughts on that board? reading over some of the rossignol boards you mention above a lot of the specs are the same, so i wonder, if in your opinion, it is in equally good board? again, it is less expensive and i am planning on buying boots and bindings by burton so just wanted to keep it consistent. also, can you please tell me what size i should be looking at? i am 5’6 122-125lbs and a newbie to snowboarding. thank you!
hi again, adding to my earlier questions, i am a size 8 boot.
Hi Ola
Yes the Burton Genie is a very good board for beginners – so if you can get it at a good price, then I’d say go for it.
In terms of size I would go for the 142cm. I think this would be a good size for you as a beginner – it would also be a good width for size 8 boots.
Hope this helps, let me know if you have any questions about any of your other gear requirements.
hi again nate, thank you so much for replying and for your help, i am sure i will come back here with more questions. are there any other snowboards by burton that you would recommend to me being a beginner? the social? the genie i was looking at was sold out of my size, so i am still browsing and trying to get the best price, i am not in a rush but would like one by burton.
Hi Ola
The Socialite is a good beginner option. I’d say it’s the next best option to the Genie in the Burton line-up. The Feelgood Flying V and the Lip Stick would be the next best options after that – but they’re getting less ideal and more pricey.
I did find the Genie here in a 142cm though:
~ Burton Genie Snowboard at evo.com
Or here if you wanted to save a bit more money it’s also available at the same place as a blem board(this is for a board that has cosmetic damage but nothing that effects the performance of the board)
~ Burton Genie Blem
Hope this helps
thank you. how is the genie different from social? the one i am looking at, social, is only available in 147, is that too long for me at 5’6 122-125lbs? honestly, i like the colors on it more than the pinks and purples, which i am not a fan of, on the genie. insert eye roll 🙂 i won’t be in the snow again till next dec-jan, but imagine now can get a better price after season? or do you recommend waiting for fall when new boards and patterns come out? not sure how they are priced beginning of season.
Hi Ola
There’s not too much difference between the Genie and Socialite in terms of suitability for a beginner. I’d say that the Socialite has a bit of a looser feeling to it – and it’s a bit more expensive. But if you’re willing to invest a bit more it’s a suitable beginner option. However, as a beginner I’d prefer to see you on the 142 rather than the 147. You could definitely go up to a 144 or even 145cm at a push but I think 147cm is a little bit long. It would be fine for your specs if you were a more advanced rider – but longer boards are harder to learn on.
Come summer and the start of next season (especially around Black Friday sales time) you will get good deals on 2016-17 models – but the trade-off is availability. There is typically less to choose from. So at the moment, there are more options for 2016-17 gear and most of it is starting to go on sale already. Whatever’s left in summer/early season might be even cheaper – but you may not be able to find what you’re after. The new 2017-18 models will come out some time around late summer – but they will be full price until around this time next year. You would have your pick of gear for 2017-18 models in fall and come early season – but it would cost more.
I did find the Burton Solialite in a 142cm at the link below though – and if you wanted to save a bit more there was also a 2016 model on the same site
~ Burton Socialite 142cm 2017
~ Burton Socialite 142cm 2016
Hope this helps
thank you so much for all your help. i was looking at a board called social with oranges on it (maybe limes). is social the same thing as socialite? sorry i am just confused why the one with oranges is listed as social on all sites and then there are the ones you sent which are listed as socialite. i do like the ones you sent me a link to. also, are there specific bindings and boots i need to purchase or do they all fit? interested in burton both all black. i also have a question about a board for my son, not sure if i can ask here too or at another link? again thank you so very much for all your help 🙂
Hi Ola
Ah yes, I see the confusion. I actually thought that the Social was replaced by the Socialite for the 2016 model. But I actually see that there was a 2016 Social and a 2016 Socialite (only a Socialite for 2017).
But these boards are very similar – in fact from a quick look at the stats I can’t actually see anything different about them except for the graphics.
So either would be fine – but get the one that you can find that’s in the best size for you.
Any boots will be fine – and you can fit most bindings to Burton boards.
Burton boards use something called the Channel System which is different to how other companies mount their bindings. But most binding brands/models are either compatible with this system or come with a separate disc to make them compatible. But just make sure that the bindings you are getting are “compatible with the channel system”. If you are going with Burton bindings the best bet is to go with their “EST” bindings. They also have “Re:Flex” bindings and they will come with something that makes them compatible with the channel system too (but mostly Burton make these so that they have bindings that are compatible with other brands’ boards).
So yeah if you go Burton either type will fit but EST are preferable – but if you want something that will also work on other boards, then go with the Re:Flex model.
You can check out some beginner binding and boot options at the link below.
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Boots
~ My Top 5 Women’s Beginner Bindings
There are Burton options in both those lists.
hi nate, quick update from the above. i have not yet purchased a board, still debating between the genie and social. i plan on this being the board i stay with for years if not forever, as we are only in the snow a week out of the year and i am a complete beginner. we just got back from the slopes, i rented a board since i did not have one purchased yet. the rental gave me a burton feather 144. did not have a 142 available. i question whether i will ever grasp this sport, i am having such a hard time, i took lessons every day while we were there (5 days), but after taking so many hard falls on days 1-2, my wrists and buttbone were so banged up that i was just too tense, too fearful as each fall was like abuse on my wrists and behind, having to sit in pain for few minutes. i felt as if i took one more fall, i would end up breaking some bones. i believe for next year i will have to protect myself and buy wrist guards and pants with cushioning, let me know if you can recommend some for females. also, despite the falls and i believe, sprained wrists, i am not giving up on learning to board, but believe it is time to have my own board, as the last one i had rented felt different than this one. also, day 4 my instructor noticed that my stance was way too wide preventing me from positioning my body correctly. if you have any advice on how to set bindings ect i welcome it. also, what is the difference between boots that have the knob to tighten compared to the ones that are tied, and which do you recommend for me? both years i had the knobs in front, and found them easy to use and tighten, not sure if these are certain model names to look for? again, looking to find gear that i can use for years to come, as renting and having a different board each time can’t be a good thing for someone that is inexperienced. also interested in if you would choose the social or genie for a board to last me pretty much forever.
sorry, 8.5 i believe
Hi ola
I think you’ll still be fine on the Burton Genie 142cm with 8.5s.
hi again nate,
i left a long update a few minutes ago to the thread above, but do not see it, please let me know if my message went thru as i had some questions there. thank you so much.
Hi Ola
Yes, I got your message, they just have to be moderated before they’re published. And I’ve been laid back with a stomach bug, so I haven’t had the chance to reply as quickly as usually as I would like to.
Between the Genie and the Socialite, I think the Genie will be the easier board to ride. The Socialite on the other hand is probably one that would last you longer in terms of once you become a more advanced rider. That said, probably one of the main reason’s for that is for performance at speed and for freestyle riding (tricks etc) – and if you don’t see yourself having a need for speed or looking to get into jumps/spins/jibs etc, then there isn’t that much more you’ll get out of the Socialite, IMO.
I think having your own board is definitely a good idea and having that consistency with your gear really helps, so I agree that it’s a good idea.
And yeah, I would look into padded shorts and wrist guards. If for nothing else, but for your confidence. I broke my tail bone on a jump a couple of years back and the next season I couldn’t get my confidence back on jumps. As soon as I bought padded shorts, I was fine again – just knowing I had the protection. I think it was mostly a physiological thing. So yeah, I would go for that protection, it will help, IMO. You’ll get there – everyone goes through the falls and pain, it will be worth it! I like your persistence!
In terms of your stance, I think it’s a good idea to experiment with your width and your binding angles – but to begin with going with the reference stance of the board is a good way to go in terms of width (also check out – Snowboard Stance Setup) and for angles check out the following:
>>Best Binding Angles for Beginners
I wouldn’t have thought that the reference stance on the Feather 144 would be too wide for you – but it may be the case that they didn’t set you up on the reference stance. But it also might be the case that you like a narrower stance, which is absolutely fine. If you find that the reference stance feels too wide (on whichever board you go with) you can make it narrower.
For bindings I would check out:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
And for boots:
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
In terms of the boots with the knob – those are what are called “Boa” boots. There are 3 main types of boot lacing systems – Boa, Traditional Lace and Speed Lace. Which one you go with mostly comes down to personal preference. It sounds like you liked the Boa system – so that would be a good bet to go with something with that.
>>More on boot lacing systems
Hope this helps
yes this definitely helps, thank you so much for taking the time to respond and all your valuable information. just curious…how does the rossignol tesla amptek compare to the burton social or genie? still leaning towards burton but browsing before i commit. at 5ft 6in and 130lbs i would still be good for the 142? (i gained a few lbs since last year when you recommended this length for me).
and sorry about the stomach bug…those are the worst!
Thanks Ola! I think I’m through the worst of it now.
I’d still say something between 143 and 145 for your new specs. Before I would have said 142 to 144. But I still think 142 for the Genie would be the better option for that board. You could go up to the 147 but it’s going to be a steeper learning curve if you went that long, IMO.
For the Tesla, another good option for you, the 143 would be your best bet, IMO. It’s a little different from the Genie/Social in that it has camber between the feet – but there isn’t a lot of it – it’s 20% camber and 80% rocker. So the camber is just in the middle of the board and it’s rocker from before the bindings, under the bindings and out to tip and tail. It’s a very forgiving profile like the flat-to-rocker profiles on the Genie/Social. It’s also a narrower board overall than both the Genie and the Social but should still be fine for your boot size.
Hope this helps
hi nate!
i am happy to say i just purchased my board, i went with the burton genie, thank you for all your help and advice. i will be purchasing the burton mint boa boots just waiting for a better price. but i am still a little confused which bindings to get, i have been looking for the est burton you suggested above but not exactly sure what i am looking for, would you be able to send me a link? there are different styles of est? i found scribe est, stiletto est. not sure which ones to look for. thank you again for all the help ☺️
Hi Ola
Awesome that you have a board now!
Yeah EST is just a type of binding with a certain mounting system and there are lots of different styles. Burton also have a “Re:Flex” style of binding. Their EST bindings are the best match for a Burton board but will only fit on Burton boards. Their “Re:Flex” models will fit on Burton boards as well as other snowboard brands. So if you were to change your board to a non-burton board at some stage but keep your same bindings, then Re:Flex is the way to go, if you go Burton. But i f you think that you’ll stick with Burton or if you changed boards you’d also change bindings, then EST is the way to go.
For beginners the best beginner binding options from Burton are:
~ Burton Citizen: only comes in Re:Flex
~ Burton Stiletto: comes in EST and Re:Flex
Hope this helps
thank you. for the stiletto est, would i go with a M or L for 8.5 boot? if L, it will not be too large to fit on the genie?
Hi Ola
With 8.5s you should go for the Large. You might be able to squeeze into the Mediums but the Large are the safer bet. You shouldn’t have any issues fitting the Large on to the Genie (assuming you went with the 142cm?).
yes i went with the 142 genie. thank you so much for all your help, i have all my gear, will be starting a new thread if you don’t mind me asking for help for my son’s board. ☺️
You’re very welcome!
Hi Nate,
I wondered what you thought about the Ride Compact 2017? I like the look of the Ride boards and their website directed me to this one as ‘most suitable’.
I would say i’m a beginner/intermediate boarder (more on the intermediate side) and quickly progressing. I’m 5’5, around 130lb size 8 shoe. I’ve only ever rented boards but I feel like I will be able to have more fun and progress if I had a better board to learn on as I haven’t had great experiences with rentals.
I’t not sure what level of boards I should be looking at as I don’t feel like a beginner anymore but I don’t want to get a board that is too advanced for me.
Any help/advice would be much appreciated!
Thanks
Anita
Hi Anita
I would go as far as to say that you will definitely have more fun and progress faster with your own gear. It’s not just that the gear will be better – but it will also mean that you will the same gear every time you go up – and that consistency really helps. There are plenty of other good reasons but those are two of the main ones.
You’re on the right thought track – you definitely don’t want to go too far ahead in the type of board you get – it can be a confidence killer – but you want something that will be able to take you to that next level.
I think that the Ride Compact would be suitable. It’s decent as a beginner board and you could certainly progress on it to an intermediate and up level. Ride give this a flex rating of a 2/10 but I’d say it’s a bit above that – more like a 3/10 at least.
Probably your best option from Ride’s line-up, IMO, would be the Ride Saturday. It’s new for them this year but it’s that kind of board that would be great for an intermediate rider looking to progress. It’s bit of a step up from the Compact but it sounds like you are progressing pretty quickly and I’m pretty sure you’d be able to handle it – it’s still a pretty easy going board, by all accounts, but just offers a bit more than the compact. Ride rates this a 3/10 for flex but again, I’d say they’re a bit on the soft side and it would be more like a 4/10 – I think that would be a good flex for you – and I think the camber profile (camber between the feet and rocker towards tip and tail) would be good. It’s still catch free but also offers a bit more with the camber.
Anyway, I think the Compact would be suitable but the Saturday would be a slightly better (even if more pricey) option.
In terms of sizing I would go with:
Compact: 147cm (238mm waist)
Saturday: 146cm (242mm waist)
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate, that is really helpful advice and I will definitely take a look at the Ride Saturday.
My friend has offered to lend me her board for my trip coming up, its 2015/2016 Roxy Radience 148 length. Do you think this board will be too advanced/wrong size for me to take out? I don’t want to borrow it if it would be counter productive? The reason I ask is because she is looking to get a new board and then would sell this one.
Thanks,
Anita
Hi Anita
I’d say the 2015 Radiance would be an intermediate and up board – so I don’t think it would be too too much board for you. The 148cm size is, I think, a good size for an advanced version of you, if that makes sense. As an intermediate rider bordering on beginner, ideally I think you would go a slightly shorter but all round I think it’s not a bad board for you to try.
So I don’t think there would be anything wrong with giving it a go to see what you think. If nothing else it will give you a gauge on whether you think you would like to go for something a little shorter/a little easier to ride. And you might even love it and want to buy it off your friend. But try not to feel pressured to buy it off your friend if you don’t feel like you’re comfortable on it.
Hi Nate,
first of all, I’ve really been enjoying your insightful reviews and recommendations, and think it’s great that you are taking the time to respond to people’s questions individually and extensively! Thanks for that!
I have only picked up snowboarding recently (5 lessons so far) and was looking to get my own gear, as I’ve really been enjoying my lessons. After reading your recommendations, I was thinking about getting a Ride Rapture (2016) in 154 (or Burton Genie in 152), as I am a heavy rider (5’4 and around 195lbs). However, I saw in one of your comments to another person (same height as myself but 230lbs) that for a heavier rider you recommend maybe getting a mid flex board rather than a soft beginner one, which made me question my choice.
I’m a grad student and have put on quite a bit of weight since starting grad school (boo), but I’m determined to loose a reasonable amount of weight till the next season (I’ve lost about 17lbs since January and plan to be around 170lbs end of this year – which still leaves me at the heavier end, I guess).
I’ll go snowboarding at least 5 more times this season (maybe up to 10 times). I’m not sure whether I should better wait for the next season to get my gear (see where my weight is at then), but I think the good deals are coming up now, and –as a student– budget is certainly a concern (plus, I’m kinda keen on my own board). I’m currently only snowboarding at the “city hill” once a week (artificial snow) but am hoping to go to Marmot Basin in the Canadian Rockies this and next season (it’s the closest snowboarding in the mountains).
What are your thoughts? Get a board now (and if so, what model and size would you recommend) or stick with rentals till next season? (Btw, my rental now is a 140 Elan. I don’t know the model. The first time they gave me an even smaller board but I feel the 140 works better, plus, the boots were a size too big for me the first time). I’m also not set on getting a women’s board necessarily (no idea whether it actually makes a difference).
Also, does my weight influence the choice of bindings? I saw a good deal on the Burton Citizen which you recommended, but again, because of my weight, should I go for another model?
I’d greatly appreciate your advice!
Cheers,
Claudia
Hi Claudia
Thanks for your message.
I think that going for something with a little bit of a stiffer flex is a good idea if you’re above the weight recommendations. This also enables you to ride a slightly shorter board, which can make it a bit easier to ride. But if you ride something that’s already quite soft flexing and it’s too short, then it might start feeling too soft.
I think if we can get on something around a 149 to 152 that’s in a medium flex but is still catch free and easier to ride for a beginner but will also allow you to progress to a more advanced level, then that would be a good option. These medium flex options will likely feel like around a medium-soft for you – which is what we want at this stage.
Personally, I think buying now is probably the best idea. The sooner you get your own gear (provided it’s suitable gear for your ability level) the quicker you’ll progress. It gives you consistency in gear and also gear that is of better quality and more suitable, generally speaking, than hiring. And as your weight goes down, the flex of the board will feel a little stiffer again, but only subtly and this won’t be a bad thing as by then you will likely have upped your ability.
In terms of men’s boards I’d say typically a no go for women. Not that there’s necessarily anything different but typically a men’s board will be wider and if it’s too wide for you it can make turn initiation slow and more difficult. But that would depend on your boot size. If you can let me know your boot size – or your foot length or shoe size if you don’t know your boot size – then I can more accurately recommend a size for you.
Anyway, at this stage I think the following would be good options for you. They fit the criteria that I mentioned above (medium flex, easy ride for a beginner, progression beyond beginner):
~ Burton Feelgood Flying V 149cm (up to 152cm max)
~ GNU Velvet Gnuru 150cm
~ GNU Ladies Choice 148.5cm (or 151.5cm)
~ Never Summer Infinity 149cm or 151cm
But if you can let me know your boot size I can give you a more accurate size recommendation in terms of width.
You could probably get away with going for something medium-stiff in bindings – but I think you would be better off going for a medium. Check out the link below to check out some binding options with a medium flex.
~ My Top 5 Women’s All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps and that I answered all your questions. Let me know if I missed anything.
Hi Nate,
thank you so much for your reply! The boards you recommended are a bit higher in price than what I’d hoped for, but I found sales on either of the Gnu boards and will go for one of them (probably the Ladies Choice in 148.5).
I am not quite sure about boots. My feet are 24.5/25cm (Euro 39). The rental boots are a size 8 (but I don’t know what brand, inside the liner the Euro size is given as either 40 or 40.5, though). One thing I was wondering when researching bindings: Burton’s sizing, for example, says M (6–8) and L (8+). If I understand correctly, boot sizes vary by brand (so, I assume that Burton bindings sizes correlate with Burton boot sizes. So, because with a size 8 I’m right at the end of the size range (for Burton at least), would I need to possibly go one size up to L? Or go with M? (If I get different brand boots and bindings).
I read your recommendations on boots also, but again I’m not sure whether I’d also look for stiffer boots (i.e., medium flex) rather than softer beginner ones… The 32 Lashed FT boots (2015) are on sale at my local store currently, btw.
All the best,
Claudia
Hi Claudia
The width on the Ladies Choice 148.5 should be ideal for your boot size. And the 150 Velvet Gnuru the width will be fine too.
Burton binding sizes do correlate with Burton boot sizes you are correct. Binding sizes definitely vary. I wouldn’t say that boot sizes necessarily vary but different brands have a different fit and you could end up in a different size for a different brand – so I guess they do vary in that way. The other thing is that some boots have different outersole reduction – some boots have a lower profile outersole – so that they are smaller on the outer but the same fit on the inside, if that makes sense. Burton, Adidas & Ride have the smallest outersoles. So if you were on a Burton, Adidas or Ride size 8, then medium Burton bindings would be fine. If you were in another boot brand, then the medium might still be ok but the large might be safer. For most other brands you would be on a medium. Check out the post below to double check depending on the brand you go with.
~ How to Choose the Right Size Snowboard Bindings
There’s a men’s and women’s bindings table part way down the post which shows the different brands sizes and which boot sizes fit in their different sizes.
In terms of boot flex, I think you could go with a medium flex – and 32 Lashed are good boots and would be suitable for you, IMO – and the 2015 models will be fine too.
Hope this answers your questions – if you need any clarification just let me know
Thanks again, Nate! The boot profile explanation totally makes sense. While I was looking for bindings yesterday, I cam across Flow bindings (Flow Omni, for example). The rear entry option looks tempting…
What is your opinion on Flow bindings?
Cheers
Hi Claudia
I haven’t tested flow bindings for a few years now but I think they would do the job. The rear entry is nice for speed of getting in. I found that the trade off for speed vs performance wasn’t worth it for me – but that was a few years ago now – and I have heard they have stepped their game up since then. But I couldn’t say first hand. For entry level bindings I think they should be fine though. Only thing is that the Omni might be a little bit too stiff as beginner bindings. I would go with the Juno or Minx for you if you can. These are more medium flexing and should suit you best of the flow bindings. Medium size would be best.
Hi Nate,
I’m just learning to snowboard and came across your amazing site while looking at how to size a snowboard properly as I think I will progress better on my own snowboard rather than a hire (and save some money too)
I am 60kg (with boots etc on) and 5ft 3″
My boot size is a US 7.
I have had 3 lessons so far and struggling to master turning. First lesson was on a 140 and subsequent 2 lessons (2 days consecutively) I was on a 130.
I just wondered if you could confirm roughly what size board I should go for as I think it should be around 143 but then I am at the top of the weight range for most of the beginners boards you have recommended. I am based in UK so if you could recommend a board I could get hold of over here would be great!
Many thanks,
Sophie
Hi Sophie
I’d say anything from a 141cm to 143cm would be a good size for you. I wouldn’t worry too much about being at the top of the weight recommendations – these are rough guidelines and as a beginner especially you are better off being at the top of those guidelines than at the bottom.
I think the following (which are available in the UK – see links below) would be great options for you:
~ Roxy Ally 143cm (or 139cm if you felt like you preferred shorter)
~ Rossignol Gala Amptek 142cm
~ Ride Compact 143cm
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
What size would you recommend for me… I am 120-125 lbs and 5’8″. I am a beginner. I recently used an old 152 Morrow board a friend gave me and I had a really hard time with it. I was thinking of the rossignol myth but I am hung up in 144 or 149. Maybe a different one would be better for me? I am a size 8 boot. Haven’t gotten bindings yet. Thanks for your time 🙂
Hi Bre
I think anything between a 144cm to a 147cm would be a good choice for you as a beginner and based on your specs. I’m not surprised that you had a hard time on a 152cm. Also, there are other factors about boards that make them harder or easier to learn on. I don’t know the specs of the board you were riding but it’s possible that they weren’t suitable for a beginner – but the 152 size alone would make it harder for you to ride.
So if you do go Myth, then I would go with the 144cm. The width on that is 236mm which is going to be quite narrow for you. But I think you would get away with it, just. What brand of boots do you have? That can make a difference to width.
In terms of other options on this list, I would say the following sizes would work.
~ Rome Royal 144cm (244mm waist width)
~ Ride Rapture 147cm (242mm waist width)
~ Salomon Oh Yeah 147cm (242mm waist width)
Hope this helps – if there are others not on this list that you are considering, let me know and I can give you my opinion as to their suitability.
Hi Nate,
Awesome reviews and discussion, exactly the information I’ve been looking for! Hoping to ask for a bit of extra help choosing a board for myself.
I’m a complete beginner to snowboarding and an intermediate skier. What has made me think of purchasing a board for myself is the potential ease of learning compared to clunky rental boards. I’ve had a brief muck around on my partners rental snowboard once for a laugh (way oversized, as were his boots!). And then another brief muck around in the beginners area on my own rental board while the lifts were down. I actually had much more difficulty on my own rental board compared to my partners board (who is much larger than I am!) On reflection I think they might have loaned me a board that was even more oversized, as I remember it coming up above my chin, and it seemed much heavier in comparison to my partners board, which would have been a premium rental for an advanced rider compared to mine which was a standard rental for a beginner. This has made me think I might save myself lots of frustration by just purchasing a good quality board in the correct size that is easy to learn on.
The conditions would be predominantly icy, man-made snow. I’m 173cm, and 54kg. I’m very tempted by the Rossignol frenemy 144cm, but not sure if this would be too small.
Thanks for your help!
Ali.
Hi Ali
In my opinion you are 100% on the right track with your thinking. Getting a proper quality board – making sure that it’s not one that’s too advanced in terms of how hard it is to ride – will speed up your progress and just makes things way more fun, compared to the old clunky rental board. And you’ve also pointed out one of the other downsides to renting – that they don’t always get your size right – and that can either be because they don’t really know or sometimes because they are out of your size.
Anyway, you’ve made my job easy – because I think that the 144 Frenemy would be a great choice for you – it’s good to learn on, it’s great in icy conditions. It’s also the kind of board that would be good even once you’re more advanced – so it’s not something you’d have to replace, if you didn’t want to. You could probably also do the 147cm – but I think the 144cm is more appropriate and would help you progress faster.
The only thing – can you let me know your boot size (or if you don’t know, then your shoe size) – just so that I can make sure that the width of the 144 Frenemy is suitable.
Hope this helps
Hey! Thanks so much for your review ! I was recently introduced to snowboarding by my boyfriend, and have gone about four times. After a very frustrating experience one day with rentals (my bindings were shot and kept coming undone) I decided to bite the bullet and actively look for a board. Only problem? There wasn’t any board that I liked! Everything was 144 cm plus, and when I rented that, I hated it. After searching and searching (and searching), I finally stumbled across the Rossignol Myth Amptex board. It’s a cm shorter than what I wanted, but it fits the bill on what I was looking for.
After reading your review I am so pumped to try it and feeling much more confident in my buy. Just need to grab bindings/boots for it and then I’ll be good to go.
Thanks so much for your review!
Hi Violet
You’re very welcome. I hope the board treats you well! Definitely a good idea to get your own gear – beats rental gear every time!
If you want some ideas on boots/bindings to go with, check out the following links.
~ Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboard Boots
~ Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboard Bindings
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your super helpful and insightful posts. I purchased a Rossignol Myth 144cm board after reading your review, but I did not read the comments here until after my purchase. From what I gathered, I might be better off with a 139-142cm board? Would the 144cm board be appropriate for my ability level? Or is there another snowboard (& size) that is better fit for me?
My specs are: 5’3″, 110-115lb, size 7 boots. Currently, I have a 138cm cheap obscure-brand snowboard that was purchased 8-9 years ago (can’t find any reviews about it online).
I’ve been told by people that my current (small) board size should make it easier for me to learn, but I do not feel like this is the case. I still fall, though not as often as I did in the beginning. I’ve been riding for about 5 seasons (~1-6 trips each season), but would love to progress more. Currently, I can link turns on not-too-steep, easy blue terrain. I lose confidence, especially when it is icy and steep. I’m not sure where that puts me in terms of ability, perhaps higher end beginner or intermediate? I want to get down the basics once and for all, get the carving down, get through runs without falling, and maybe hit some easy park stuff in the future. Therefore, I thought buying a new beginner board (ie, Rossi Myth) may have been a good choice to hone in the skills. I’d appreciate any feedback!
Thank you for your help,
Jenny
Hi Jenny
Thanks for your message. If you were a complete beginner I would have recommended the 139cm Myth – but since you sound like you are at an intermediate level, I don’t think that the Myth 144cm should be too long. It’s probably the longest I would go for your specs/ability but it’s not way off.
The only thing is that you mention that you want to hit the park in the future – for this I would probably have recommended something a little bit shorter. The Myth is a good board for the park but the 144cm probably isn’t ideal for your specs in the park. But again, it’s doable.
So I think that board will be fine for you, but if you did want to check out some other options, then:
~ YES Emoticon 143cm (My Girlfriend recently bought this (from my advice of course 🙂 ) and I’d say she’s around the same level as you and she said it has improved her riding and given her more confidence in hard/icy conditions – this board does have good edge-hold in those types of conditions)
~ Roxy Ally 139cm or 143cm – another board that’s good in hard/icy conditions
But I think you could stick with the Rossi Myth. Shorter boards are easier to turn on – so that makes them easier to learn on – but adding a bit more length adds a bit more edge and a bit more surface area that is in contact with the snow. This increases stability. So when you’re riding steeper terrain and riding faster, that increased length actually helps you. If you are confident turning on blues, then you might actually like that extra bit of length for it’s extra stability.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
What a great thread! Hoping you might be able to provide a little direction for myself 🙂
I’m 168cm, 76kg (165lbs) and Boot size 10. I have only snowboarded twice, a week in Australia and a week in Japan – I would say I am beginner/intermediate I can link turns ok but do find going from heelside to toeside more difficult, but I am pretty confident. From what I have been researching, I am thinking about a board size around 151-153, and also maybe some mens boards are options for me because of my shoe size and weight?
Would appreciate any thoughts or recommendations 🙂
Hi Kim
I think you’re on the money in terms of a good length range for you – 150-153 is a good range for you to be looking at, IMO.
In terms of width, I would be looking at a waist width range between 247mm and 253mm. The only reason I would say not to go for men’s boards usually is the board width but if you look at men’s boards the widths for that length range should have some options in that width range. The only other thing is that, on average, men’s boards tend to be stiffer in terms of flex. But that’s not a problem as long as you look at men’s boards that aren’t too stiff flexing.
There are women’s boards that would be suitable for you too though, so you definitely don’t have to look for a men’s board.
From this list, the following would be a good fit for you, IMO.
>>Salomon Oh Yeah 151cm (247mm waist width)
>>Rome Royal 150cm (248mm waist)
Outside of this list there are quite a few options too including:
>>YES Emoticon 152cm (252mm waist)
>>Rome Lo-Fi Rocker 152cm (248mm waist)
This isn’t an exhaustive list but just a few that I found that are both suitable for that beginner/intermediate level and in a good length and width for you.
Check out the link below if you want to check out some men’s options
>>Top 5 Beginner Snowboards for Men
Hope this helps to give you some options
Hi Nate! Thank you so so so much for your article! I am a first time buyer and had no idea which board to buy. After reading your article I have decided to go with the number 1 board. However, I am confused on which length to get. When I went to Steven’s pass they sized me at 140cm. However, other websites recommend a much longer board, between 145cm and 151cm. I am debating between buying the 139cm or the 144cm Rossignol board. I am 5ft 5in and 135lbs. What size would you recommend?
Hi Yuri
Thanks for your message. For the Rossignol Myth, the 144cm would be the best for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I wanted to say thanks for writing this article. 🙂
I was looking into the Rossignol Myth because of your article, but I ended up grabbing a pair of Burton Lexa EST Bindings at an REI Garage sale I couldn’t pass up ($40 bucks!). It looks like they only work through a channel binding system, so was wondering if you had recs for a board that works. I’m looking for something I can ride as I’m starting out, but that I can also use as I get more intermediate.
Some other info about me: I’m 5’2 and 125 – 130 pounds. It’s my first season, and I just started riding easy blues this past weekend! I’ve rented 138 and 140 cm boards since they’re a bit easier to navigate (thanks for the advice!)
So far, I’ve looked into:
Burton Deja Vu Flying V — I was looking into 138 or 141, I’m not sure what size would be best for me.
Burton Feather — I think I’d prefer a twin though
Burton Genie — Seems like it’s a pretty beginner board though
Curious if you have any recommendations for any boards and sizes that would work for me!
Thanks for all of your help!!
Hi Lynn
Great deal on the Lexas – that’s crazy cheap!
But yeah you will have to go for a Burton board with channel system, since they’re the EST bindings. But that’s fine, cause Burton make good boards.
I think the Deja Vu Flying V would be a good option. It would definitely go for the 141cm. I think the 138cm will be too short for you, especially as you progress. The 141cm would be the better size.
That would be the best for you out of the 3 you’ve mentioned, IMO.
Another good option would be the Feelgood Flying V – for this one I would go for the 140cm – or even the 144cm. Probably the 140cm on balance but the 144cm would be doable for you too.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for responding Nate. 🙂
I’m looking between the Deja Vu Flying V and Feelgood Flying V. Using GoodRide and I don’t really see too much of a difference except for the flex.
Do you have a preference based off specs for either one? The majority of time I’m probably going to keep trying to ride more difficult runs — getting used to blues and blacks. All your info is super useful.
Thanks again 🙂
Hi Lynn
You’re very welcome.
The Deja Vu Flying V is probably a little bit easier to start out on but overall the Feelgood Flying V is probably the slightly better board. But there isn’t a huge amount of difference between them. On balance I would say Feelgood Flying V because it would take you a bit further in terms of all-mountain riding and because it’s a slightly better match for the Lexas (in terms of flex) – but either would be suitable.
Awesome, I’ll keep my eyes open for any good deals.
Thanks for all of your help 🙂
You’re very welcome Lynn.! Hope you can find a good deal
Hey Nate,
I’ve really enjoyed your site and learned a lot! I was hoping to get a recommendation from you as to board, boots and bindings given my size etc I don’t seem to be a good match for women’s boards.
I’m 5’11” and weigh about 160lbs. I wear a size 10 shoe. I’ve got a slender – athletic build.
I learned to snowboard a long time ago but haven’t been in years. I would consider myself an advanced beginner or beginning intermediate. I’m comfortable linking turns – the biggest problem I have had is catching an edge when going down straight/more flat sections. I haven’t snowboarded in years but recently moved to Denver and am looking forward to getting back on a board here in Colorado. I prefer to stay on the trail or on powder. I am not interested in terrain parks or anything like that.
Thank you so much!!
– Sylvia
Hi Sylvia
Thanks for your message.
I would say that something around a 155cm (give or take) would be a good length and for waist width your looking at something roughly 247mm to 253mm. That doesn’t leave too many women’s board options but there are some.
The following I have also made sure will be good for a beginner going on intermediate rider and appropriate for the style that you prefer.
~ GNU B-Nice 154cm (245mm waist)
~ Ride Saturday 154cm (246mm waist)
~ K2 Spot Lite 153cm (248mm waist)
~ K2 Bright Lite 154cm (245mm waist)
~ Burton Feelgood Flying V 155cm (245mm waist)
~ Roxy Ally 155cm (252mm waist)
~ YES Emoticon 152cm (252mm waist) – a little shorter than the others but the extra width means you could go a bit shorter
~ Capita Space Metal Fantasy 153cm (245mm waist)
Some of these are borderline too narrow. But if you were to go with Burton or Ride boots (which have really good reduced outer-sole tech) then I think you’d be fine width-wise on those. Otherwise, you might get away with those but it would be pushing. Anything on or over that 247mm waist width mark should be fine with any boots.
For boots, I would say to check out the following links to get some ideas.
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
You can also check out the following link to help you choose
>>How to Choose Snowboard Boots
And finally for bindings, check out the following:
Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Most women’s bindings can accomodate size 10s so you will be fine going with women’s bindings – I always recommend sticking with women’s bindings as much as possible because there are some design features that make them more suitable for women. You can check out some of the different brands sizings at the next link.
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
Hope this helps
Thanks so much Nate!! I really appreciate it!!
You’re very welcome Sylvia. Thanks for visiting the site!
Hey Nate,
Awesome reviews! Was hoping you could help me with some recommendations
I’m a short woman, 4’10”, 110 lbs with a size 6 shoe and a beginner. Would you recommend a kids size board or would a woman’s board work?
Thanks!
Hi Jamie
Apologies for the late reply. I have had a full on weekend demoing gear and then had Monday off for my fiancée’s birthday.
I think a women’s board would work for you. I would say that something between 136cm and 139cm would be a good length for you and try to look for something with a waist width of between 232mm and 238mm with size 6s.
This gives you a few options on this list i.e.
– 138cm Salomon Oh Yeah
– 136cm or 139cm Rossi Tesla
– 138cm Ride Rapture
– 139cm Rossi Myth
That’s not to say that you can’t go with a kids board as well – there are kids boards that would fit your specs too. However, I am not that familiar with kids boards, so I wouldn’t be able to recommend what would be best for you there. Also, and I’m not an expert on the subject, but I have heard that kids boards don’t necessarily end up with the same tech as adult boards.
Hope this helps
Nate, what a godsend your beginner snowboard column was to me. I began riding at age 48. I do not ski, and had never seen a snowboard before. I purchased the Burton Social, and headed for my first lesson, which was a disaster. I spent most of my time just sitting on the slopes. After reading your column, I ordered the Myth, and my life has never been the same. Things finally just clicked! I only had a few days on the slopes, but they were the most productive with my new Myth. This year at age 49 we hit the slopes 25 times, from the East coast to Colorado and Utah! I insisted on taking MY board, and I was in heaven. I can now proudly consider myself an advanced beginner! Thank you for giving me my confidence…this is just the beginning!
Hi Julie
So glad to hear that you’re progressing so well! And really awesome that you were able to get 25 days in, in just your second season. It’s also always great to hear about how the right gear helped – that’s exactly what this site is here for – thanks for sharing!
Hi Nate, I’m so glad I’ve come across your website. It’s been really informative and inspired me in the beginning of my snowboard obsession.
You seem to offer some great personalised advice, so apologies in advance for this long detailed post.
My experience/current skill level:
– 13 days over 2 seasons (6 in NZ Aug 2016, 7 in Japan Mar 2017)
– I can link turns fairly consistently on most green runs, manage adequately on easy red runs, and do poorly on steeper red runs (ie. can’t link turns without falling every time, and mostly use ‘chicken moves’ or garlands to get myself down)
My stats:
– Weight: 60-65kg
– Height: 165cm
– Boot size: US7/24cm
Future plans/goals or ride conditions:
– 10-15 days per year is probably manageable if I can hit both hemisphere’s winter seasons
– Australia and NZ have poorer snow conditions and can often be icy
– I plan to return to Japan, or even Canada/Colorado, next year for approx. 10 days (possible powder snow)
– I want to get more confident in linking turns on steeper runs, and more comfortable with faster speed
– I’m mostly interested in sticking to groomed runs (and try powder at some point) and working on my carving, as opposed to freestyle and doing tricks in the park
My questions:
– What size board would be best?
– I’m considering Rossi Tesla or Myth. Most websites state that Tesla has extruded base as well, and that both boards are for freestyle riding. Are these still suitable for me?
– Which ultimately would you recommend?
– Is it best to buy the binding that was designed for the board? Eg. Rossi make a Tesla and Myth binding, don’t they?
Hi Melissa
Thanks for your message.
I think size-wise for you something in the range 146 to 148. Since you’ve already had 13 days and are looking to get in that 10-15 days per year I wouldn’t go as low as say 144cm, which I might normally recommend for a beginner with your specs. This is generally speaking and different boards feel longer and shorter but I think this range is a good one to look at for you.
In terms of width I think your ideal range is somewhere between 235mm and 241mm (in terms of waist width)
The Tesla and Myth are both freestyle boards – but often freestyle boards also work really well as beginner boards. But since you sound like you are already progressing nicely and already have some specific things in mind – i.e. not going down the freestyle road and wanting to ride powder in the future and also planning to ride a decent amount and so should progress nicely, then I think we should look at something that’s more all-mountain oriented for you.
The other thing you mention is encountering icy conditions quite a bit, so we should take that into account as well.
In terms of bindings there’s no reason why you would need to get the binding that was designed for the board. In fact Rossignol is the only company I can think of that have bindings that are named after boards. So you don’t need to restrict your binding search to that. The important thing with bindings is roughly matching the flex of your bindings with the flex of the board.
In terms of compatibility most bindings will fit most boards. It’s really just Burton’s “EST” bindings you have to be careful with – they only fit on Burton boards with the “Channel System”. But Burton also have “Re:Flex” bindings which will fit on other brands boards. You can learn more about choosing bindings at the links below.
>>Choosing Binding Flex
Binding and Snowboard Compatability
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
And here are some options for bindings
Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
In terms of boards I think that the following would be great options for you:
~ Rossignol Frenemy 147cm (240mm waist width) – great in ice and it’s an all mountain board. Will ride well in powder. But it’s not overly stiff and has a friendly camber profile. Something that would make this list apart from being a little bit more expensive than the options here (but still really reasonable). Also it’s something that spans ability levels – suitable for a beginner but great for intermediate and more advanced riders. I think this is your best option.
~ YES Emoticon 146cm (239mm waist) – again great in ice. Not as good in powder as the Frenemy and a little more freestyle oriented but it’s an all-mountain-freestyle board rather than strictly a freestyle board like the Tesla and Myth. My Fiancée has this board and she loves it – she doesn’t do any freestyle riding either.
~ Jones Twin Sister 146cm (242mm waist) – this is an all-mountain board like the Frenemy. Not quite as good in icy conditions but still pretty good. A little bit stiffer than the Frenemy (medium as opposed to medium-soft)
~ Never Summer Infinity 147cm (234mm waist) – another all-mountain board with a similar flex (medium-soft) to the Frenemy). Not quite as good edge-hold as Frenemy in icy conditions but still good (similar to the Jones Twin Sister).
Hopefully you can find one of these. I think these would all be great choices for you. If you can’t find any of these let me know and I can give you some more options.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thanks for so much for your advice. I liked the sound of Rossi Frenemy 147 and found it online for USD200, which seemed a great price! Pity I have to spend so much shipping it over to Australia from the US though 🙁
In terms of bindings, I read your reviews, then managed to find a pair of Rome Katana for USD200 as well. But I’m unsure about whether they might be too stiff for someone at my riding level, even though they match the stiffness of the board (I think a flex of 6 in both board and bindings).
I got even further confused when I was asking someone at a store about the Burton Escapade, then being told that Lexa would be better value for money for the specs. They also said the flex in Lexa was in reality softer than Escapade.
What are your thoughts about the Rome Katana on the Frenemy? Or would Burton be better?
PS: I bought Salomon Pearl boots in Japan before I left.
Hi Melissa
Great price for the Frenemy! Pity about the shipping but hopefully you still got a good price overall.
I would say that the Frenemy is more like a medium-soft flex. More like a 4/10 or 5/10 at most. Rossignol typically overstate the stiffness on their gear – it’s the same for their men’s boards. The Rome Katana on the other hand is a true 6/10 I would say. That’s not to say that it’s too far different to the board that it’s not a match. You could definitely pair those 2 up if you wanted. They’re in that kind of flex range that I would recommend to an intermediate rider – not such a beginner – so it sounds like you’re on the cusp of that.
I would definitely say that the Escapade is softer flexing than the Lexa. The Lexa is the stiffest women’s binding in the Burton line-up. I would say that the Lexa is a bit too stiff for you at this stage. The Escapade on the other hand would be at a good flex level for you. They’re not the cheapest bindings in the world, for sure, and I wouldn’t necessarily argue against the fact that the Lexa might be better value for money in terms of the specs – but value is relative to the rider. If they end up being too stiff for you and difficult/unenjoyable to ride, then they won’t be giving you much value at all.
If you go Burton, I would go Escapade – or you could go for the Scribe, which is a cheaper option but at a similar flex level to the Escapade. I would go Scribe before Lexa if I was you. That’s not to say that you should necessarily go with Burton. They do make great bindings, IMO but there are other good options out there too. But if you did go Burton that would be my picks for you.
Still an amazing price, even taking into account shipping! I’m so thankful you recommended Frenemy to me (and just generally for replying and providing so much advice). I proudly showed my best friend a picture of my new board… her comment was “That’s such a you design”! haha 😀
Oh, I wasn’t specifically looking for Burton! I did like what I had seen and read of Escapade on your review… however, the price is a huge deterrent (I can’t find one below USD224).
So I did some more research based on (what I read to be) medium flex, online availability of sizes, colours that would suit the Frenemy and priced under USD200. I narrowed down to this list:
Salomon Nova $132
Salomon Mirage $144
Ride VXN 2016=$152 2017=$190
Burton Scribe $188
Union Trilogy $196
I’m aiming for flex of 5 to match the board. Though I intend for these bindings to last me for several years (or likely throughout my whole snowboarding lifetime), I’m happy to cut out the 6’s if you feel they’re a little too advanced for me.
With the above list, which would you recommend, taking into account the value for money? My fave on that list was the Trilogy (it’s so lightweight!), but if I can get something comparable for cheaper… I suppose that will do.
Hi Melissa
You’re very welcome.
From that list I would go either Salomon Mirage or Union Trilogy – or the Burton Scribe. Not to say that the others wouldn’t be bad bindings but based on your criteria I think those 3 would be the best picks. I would say ideally Burton Escapade or Union Legacy – but the Legacy will probably be hard to find for under $200 like the Escapades. And there shouldn’t be too much difference going to the Scribe/Trilogy. The Mirage is also another quality option and it looks like you’ve found an awesome price on them.
For value for money I would be leaning towards the Mirage but you can’t go wrong with the Trilogy or Scribe either.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m a beginner snowboarder in Southwest. I’m debating between Burton Feather, Burton Genie, Solomon Lotus, and K2 Bright Lite. In your opinion, what is the best board for me? Thanks.
Hi Sarah
I think any of those options would work well for the Southwest. I would say Genie for fastest progression. Bright Lite for being the most versatile.
So, if you want a board that you can keep for a good while, I think the Bright Lite is the best option, followed by the Lotus. But if you want to progress as fast as possible and would be happy to upgrade a couple of season’s down the line, then the Genie would be your best option.
The Feather would still do the job but would be my last choice there.
So I’d say in this order or preference.
1. Genie/Bright Lite, depending on your preferences.
2. Lotus
3. Feather
Hope this helps with your decision. Let me know if you want any recommendations for sizes.
Thanks for your reply and explanation, Chris. Really appreciate it!
I may have to return the Feather that I bought two weeks ago.
What’s a good binding for the Bright Lite then? Should I consult your top 5 bindings guide?
Are the 32 swt boa boots a good choice?
Thanks!
You’re welcome Sarah.
Yeah, anything from the following list, would be a good choice for bindings for you and for the Bright Lite.
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
And the 32 STW Boa are a great choice for beginner boots too. They are on my beginner boots list as well.
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
Hi, Nate.
Great article! I’ve only been snowboarding once, using handme downs from friends, and am looking to invest in a beginner set up for the coming season that can last for a couple seasons as I gain my footing. I am 5’8″ and 125 lbs. I like your suggestions of the Rossignol Myth and Rome Royal. What size would you recommend? 149cm or something shorter? Also, is there a specific binding you would recommend pairing with these boards? I’ve seen your list of top 5 women’s beginner bindings, and am thinking about the Burton Stiletto, but am curious what you think. If it makes a difference, I will be using the equipment in Vermont.
Thanks!
Hi Jenn
Thanks for your message.
In terms of length, I think 149cm would be a little bit too long for you at this stage. Something more around the 144 to 146cm range would be better, IMO.
So for both the Royal and the Myth I would go for the 144cm. You’d getaway with the 147cm Royal too – but I think the 144cm would be the better choice for you.
If you can let me know your boot size (or your shoe size if you’re not yet sure of your boot size) – just so I can see if the width would be ok for you too.
In terms of bindings – anything from that list will be fine for you. The only thing to watch out for with the Burton is that they come in 2 types, EST and Re:Flex. Burton EST bindings only work on Burton boards, whereas Burton’s Re:Flex bindings work on any snowboard. But, I’m pretty sure that the Stilettos only come in Re:Flex so no problems there. But yeah, with Burton bindings just make sure you go with the “Re:Flex” model unless you are also getting a Burton board.
Since you’re on the East Coast, then getting a board that’s good in hard/icy conditions can be a good idea. The Myth and the Royal are ok in harder conditions but if you’re really worried about it, then going with something like the YES Emoticon or the Rossignol Frenemy is one way to go – they are the best in hard/icy conditions on this list.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
your webiste is totally awesome, I had no idea what to look for as a beginner before stumbling over your website!
After renting the last two seasons (and that’s all the snowboarding I’ve done so far), I am looking to buy my own gear. I’ve no idea what those rentals were and am now struggling what board, and also what size might be my best option.
I can mostly link my turns on the easier runs, and can also get down the more intermediate runs (but then still mostly slideing on one edge with only sporadical turns).
I am aiming at getting confident in linking my turns, especially on steeper runs and when it gets faster. Knowing myself, I probably won’t care much for tricks at the park, but having fun at just getting down smoothely, eventually also off the prepared runs.
I’d say, I am not a total beginner anymore and would like to get a board that stays with me for some time, since I am realistically speaking, probably only go snowboarding for 1-2 weeks per year.
My specs are: 170cm, around 55kgs, boot size EU39.
I had a look at your list and especially the Rossi Gala, K2 First Lite, and the Rossi Myth. Mostly, because I found great deals for them online.
Can you help me out? What yould you recommend out of my choices? Or would you go for something different based on what I wrote above? Which size should I choose for the board?
Looking forward to your advise!
Judith
Hi Judith
I think the Rossi Gala and K2 First Lite would be great options for you. The Myth would also be a good choice – but just because you say that you probably won’t be interested in tricks/park, then the Gala and First Lite make better options.
In terms of size I would say anything between 143 and 145 would be a good size for you. For the boards that you mentioned that would be:
Gala: 146cm (234mm waist)
First Lite: 146cm (236mm waist)
Myth: 144cm (236mm waist)
I know the sizes of the Gala and First Lite above are just over the range I receommended – but I think this is better than going down to the 142cm. If you were a complete beginner, then maybe the 142cm but since you have a couple of seasons under your belt, the 146cm is the better option – and also because if you go with the 146cm, you won’t have to upgrade the size, which you would probably want to do with a 142, once you were more advanced.
The other reason, is for width. The 232mm waist on the 142 Gala is probably a little bit narrow for you.
For these boards, you’ll likely want to upgrade at some stage as you become a better rider – but if you are only doing 1-2 weeks per season, then that wouldn’t be for a good few seasons, I would say.
But if you’re really concerned with getting something that will last you even longer then you could look at the Paradise (145cm), Frenemy (144cm) or Emoticon (143cm). But you would be looking at paying more for those – and since you’ve found good deals on the others and that they will be fine for a good few seasons, especially at 1-2 weeks per year, then I think either the Gala or First Lite are your best options.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Thanks, Nate!
I decided to go with the Rossi Gala (the price including bindings was just unbeatable) and am totally exited and hardly can wait for the snow to come 😉
Nice choice Judith! Hope you enjoy the new gear once the snow arrives!
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your posts on beginner snowboards/bindings. It has been overwhelming trying to research for a snowboard, and you have helped me better understand my needs, as well as narrow down my choices.
I’ve read every single one of your comments in the threads, hoping to find an answer to my dilemma. I hope you’re able to help me out with the decision for a 146cm or 142cm Rossignol Gala. >.<
My specs are 160cm (5'3), ~52kg (116lbs), 7.5 US women boot size.
I think that I am at the level most similar to (if not, the same) as the latest commenter, Judith.
I have been on the slopes for 3 seasons in total (in the past 10 years), each time for 2 weekends on average. I have bought a season pass this year and definitely hoping to go for at least 3 weekends (with classes)!
I am comfortable with C-turns (both toeside and heelside), and in my latest trip (Feb 2017), I managed to link my turns on easier runs. I was also more comfortable on my toeside than before. I have gone on intermediate slopes as well, albeit spinning involuntarily on the steeper slopes when attempting the S turns. This season, I hope to be confident with the S turns on narrow runs.
According to the Rossignol snowboard size chart on their website –
Rossignol Size Chart – I should get a 146cm. However, that would be in between my nose and eye level (using a measuring tape). Would that be too tall?
The other size at 142cm, will reach my lip level. But I'm concerned about the narrower waist width (232) as it is indicated that the max boot size for 142cm should be size 7.
Please advise me on which is more suitable for me. Thank you so much!
Hi Michi
Thanks for your message and first of all, I commend you on doing your research – too many people jump at the first board they see at a decent price and end up with something totally wrong for them and it really hurts their progress and enjoyment – so you’re definitely on the right track.
I would say that 146cm is definitely too long for you at this stage. I would look at something around 140cm to 142cm, ideally, but you can probably get away with 143cm but I wouldn’t put you on a 146cm at this stage with your specs.
In terms of the waist of the Gala, the 232mm waist is pushing it being too narrow for size 7.5 – though I have seen it recommended for sizes 4-8 in one store. But it’s hard to say. I would usually say a little too narrow.
If you didn’t want to take the risk on the width of the 142 Gala, i would suggest the following:
~ YES Emoticon 143 (237mm waist)
~ Rossignol Tesla 143cm (236mm waist)
~ K2 First Lite 142cm (234mm waist)
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions or would like any other suggestions.
Thank you so much for the advice! I’ve bought the Rossignol Tesla 143cm and I’m just waiting for winter to come 🙂
You’re very welcome Michi – hope you enjoy your board and have an awesome season when winter does arrive!
Hi Nate
Great article!
I’m just a beginner with first trip planned in dec 2017 to solden / austria.
Got some basics already but still need to practice a lot 🙂
During uni studies 10yrs ago I won a salomon board (2006 transfer 145cm). Took some lessons back then and could keep it under control but I was wondering whether I should better take a beginner board (from your list) to get the basics right. Also wondering whether this board is a bit too short for my length (169cm) and weigth (63kg).
Bindings on my board were Ride LXH Series and boots thirtytwo exus w’s.
I was hoping to recuperate the boots and bindings but to buy a second board…
Thanks for your advice 🙂
Regards
Natalia
Hi Natalia
Thanks for your message.
Pretty much everything back then (2006) was traditional camber (think some profiles with a bit of rocker in them started coming out in 2005 but most were still all-camber at that stage) – including the Salomon Transfer, I assume.
Traditional camber is a camber profile that makes it easier to catch an edge on – so it’s definitely not ideal as a beginner board – back then it was the only option, so you had to learn on it! But there are easier boards to learn on now. So yeah, I would definitely go for a new, beginner friendly board, if I was you.
In terms of size, I think that 145cm isn’t too far off. I would say around 150cm is a good size for you as an advanced rider and for your first board, I would go for something between 145cm and 147cm. Most boards on this list have an option in that range, so you should have a good number of options.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, love your article! I’m searching for a snowboard and having a difficult time finding one wide enough for me that isn’t too fast. I’m 5’9″, 180 lbs and size 11 shoe. I was at an advanced level, but have only been a couple times in the last 15 years. I think I could pick back up pretty quick, but don’t have the desire for massive speed, in the beginning, at least, maybe pick blacks back up eventually.
I like to stick to the runs and venture off to powder, but don’t do tricks or want to go way off the beaten trail. I’d like a nice, stable, not too fast ride, like to do sharp turns around moguls and would like a women’s board, but am seeing that they don’t really make them wide enough, or are harder to find.
I was looking at the Venture Oracle because they are made in the USA, Silverton, CO, or the LIB Tech Banana Magic or LIB Tech Attack Banana, also made in USA.
Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!
Courtney
Hi Courtney
Thanks for your message and sorry for the slow response – have been in the process of moving apartments all weekend!
I’m not that familiar with Venture snowboard but just looking at the Oracle my biggest concern would be the width. I don’t think this would be wide enough for 11s. I think you should be looking at something with a waist width of 248mm as a minimum and no wider than 255mm.
So I think the Banana Magic and the Attack Banana are definitely options. I would go with the 154cm Banana Magic and the 153cm Attack Banana, for you.
Another option is the YES Emoticon which has a 252mm waist width on the 152cm. The only thing would be if the 152 length was getting a bit short for you. I think a good length range would be 153 to 156. So you could probably get away with the 152 Emoticon but that shorter length would mean less performance in the powder. Though it would make for quicker turns and be better in the moguls and through trees, so that’s another thing to weight up – so 152cm is definitely not out, but you would be sacrificing something and gaining something else – so it would depend on what you valued more. I think around that 154cm mark, is a nice balance for you.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate – love the article but need some advice.
Looking for a snowboard for my 20 yr old daughter as a Christmas present. We primarily ski/board in Lake Tahoe. She has snowboarded for a few years so I would say she is an upper level beginner to intermediate rider. She can board intermediate runs without falling and can link turns pretty well. She can go fairly fast chasing her brothers on groomed runs. Right now she likes groomers and doing a little bit of park.
She did break her collar bone last year snowboarding by catching an edge so would like something that is easier to turn. Up until now she has only been riding rental gear. I think she would like a board that is stable and she can progress with. She is 5’9″, 140lbs and has a 8.5 shoe. She is fairly athletic as well.
What board would you recommend for her? Also, any recommendations for bindings and boots would be great also. Not trying to break the bank here (kids are expensive!) but want to get her some good gear.
Thanks in advance for any input.
Ken
Hi Ken
I think something like the Capita Paradise or the YES Emoticon would be great choices for her. However, if you wanted to go a little bit cheaper, then you could look at the Rome Royal, Rossignol Gala, K2 First Lite but I think those other 2 would be perfect. Of course, there are other options that are more expensive than the Emoticon and Paradise – but I think these 2 are actually probably be the best choices anyway.
In terms of size, I’m thinking something between 148 and 150 would be a good length. Possibly up to 151cm but I wouldn’t go any longer than that. In terms of width with 8.5s I’d say anything between 242mm and 248mm for the waist width would be ideal. Shoe size and snowboard boot size don’t always end up being the same (but sometimes do – usually they’re either 1/2 size down or the same). So if she ends up in an 8, then you could take that minimum down 2 or 3mm if she ends up in a 9, then add 2 to 3mm to that minimum.
So for that boards that I mentioned, the 149cm Capita Paradise – though it would be on the narrow side for 8.5s or 9s but fine for 8s. Should also get away with it on 8.5s.
It would also be the 149cm for the Emoticon.
Another option, in the same price range, is the Rossignol Frenemy – for that I’d go with the 150cm.
For bindings and boots, I’d check out the lists at the links below. If you have any questions after checking those out, feel free to ask.
Bindings
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Also for choosing sizes for bindings, check out:
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
Boots
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
And for more on choosing boots check out:
>>How to Choose Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Nate,
Great article. I am looking for a snowboard for my soon to be 11 year old daughter. This will be her second season riding. she digs it and is learning fast. She is 5’2”and weights about 95lbs. I have it narrowed down to a 2017 Rome royal (141Cm). and a newer rossignol gala (142cm). Just looking for some imput/help on deciding which way to go, or quite possibly a completely different direction. Just want to put her on a board that she will enjoy,learn and grow with
Thanks for any info
Jimmy
Hi Jimmy
I think either of those boards would be good choices. However, I think they might be a little bit too long. I know you’re probably looking for something she can grow into, given that she’s probably growing a lot at the moment – but those lengths might be a bit long. I would say 138cm would be the max I’d want to go.
So in terms of this list, the 138cm K2 Standard would be a great option (and would still give her some room to grow into it, that’s still at the max end), assuming you’re looking for an all-mountain board. There are other options for more freestyle oriented boards. And of course, looking at youth boards, there would be more options in that 135cm to 138cm range.
But if you you’re set on going with something a bit longer, then the Royal and Gala would both be great options.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the info. I was strictly going with the weight recommendations for those boards and completely spaced the length. My main goal is to get her the right size board that rides good. We are looking for an all-mountain, so that k2 would be a great choice. Any recommendations for a youth board that would fit her build?
Thanks
Jimmy
Hi Jimmy
I admit I don’t have much knowledge when it comes to youth boards, so I won’t be much help there (I have a son but he’s not yet 2, so he’s not much help 🙂 ).
But from a quick bit of research, I think the following would probably be suitable.
~ Burton De ja vu Smalls – 138cm
~ Never Summer Starlet – 137cm
~ Burton Feelgood Smalls – 135cm
~ K2 Kandi – 137cm
What I have heard about youth/kids boards is that they don’t typically get the same tech that men’s and women’s boards get, so in that respect the K2 First Lite would be the better option. But youth boards do tend to be quite a bit cheaper, so there’s that to weigh up too.
My apologies, I said K2 Standard in my last message, when I meant K2 First Lite – the Standard is the men’s equivalent of the First Lite.
Excellent. Sorry for the repeat post
That k2 looks great. My only concern is riding it “backwards” it looks as if the front and the tail are different (according to the video). She seems to enjoy riding both ways. Is this a huge factor or am I obverthinking things. Thanks again,
Jimmy
Hi Jimmy
You can still ride it switch (backwards) but it’s not ideal for it, so if that’s something she enjoys doing, then probably not ideal.
I think something all-mountain-freestyle would probably suit her best – it’s kind of a cross between an all-mountain board and a freestyle board. Fortunately, most youth boards tend to be twin or directional twin and have a centered stance – two things that suit riding switch. You’re compromising a little when it comes to powder with an all-mountain-freestyle board, but otherwise, I think it would be a good way to go.
So, everything I suggested in my last post are centered and true twin, except for the K2 Kandi. So will be easy to ride backwards. Another option would be the YES Fun Inc. Technically considered a “boys” board but I’d say it’s all the same in youth boards. So, I think the following would be good options – but keep in mind that I know very little about youth boards.
~ Burton De ja vu Smalls – 138cm
~ Never Summer Starlet – 137cm
~ Burton Feelgood Smalls – 135cm
~ YES Fun Inc – 138cm
Also keep in mind that I just did some quick research here, so there are likely other youth options. And apart from the YES Fun Inc, I haven’t really looked at “boys” boards.
Anyway, hope this gives you some options to look at.
Thanks for all the info. I decided on the k2 first lite (138)
Now my only question is between the 2017 (directional twin) or 2018 (directional). Price aside any opinion
Thanks again
Jimmy
Hi Jimmy
Because you mentioned that your daughter likes to ride switch, then I think the 2017 version is the best bet.
Thanks for the info. Not sure if this reply went through the first time so I will,try again
I was strictly going with the weight recommendations for those boards and completely spaced the length.
I am ultimately looking for an all-mountain board and looks like that k2 is a great choice. Watching the video on it it though it looks as if the front and the tail are a bit different making it harder to ride “backwards” and she seems to enjoy riding both ways. Do you happen to have any recommendations for a youth board that would fit her build?
Thanks
Jimmy
Hi Nate,
I am needing some help with board size!
I’m a female around 5’3 (162 cm) and 154 lbs, I decided to get a new board for this coming season and purchased the Burton Feather 2017 (144cm).
Burton Feather 2017 at Burton
But when I looked at the sizing chart and my weight is not in the range for the 144 cm board. Should I get the 149cm instead? The board is really flexible and extremely light.
My experience as a boarder would be beginner – intermediate (I think?). I can go on greens comfortably and started going on the blues last season. I can make s-turns, but can’t carve yet (goal for this season 🙂
I’d like to start attempting to do some very, very beginner tricks.
My past two boards have been 145cm. My old board that I got second hand last year is a Lemar 145cm (it feels stiff- camber) , and I felt pretty comfortable on it last year. So I’m quite confused as to what I should do with the Burton Feather (rocker). 144 or 149?
Or… I do have the option of getting the Rossingnol Frenemy. Although it is heavier….
not sure which would be best for me to get.
Or… is it better to just stick with my old board and invest in a pair of new, lighter snowboarding boots?
Thank you so much for your help!!
Jeanne
Hi Jeanne
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think the 149cm would the better size for the Feather for you.
If you’re thinking of going Frenemy, then the 147cm would be the best size for you, IMO.
The Feather is very soft and is basically rocker (it’s flat in the middle and then rocker, but there’s a good bit of rocker going on there). I’m not that familiar with Lamar gear but if you’re coming from a stiffer, camber Lamar, the Feather is likely to feel very loose in comparison. The feather also, will likely be something you’ll grow out of quite quickly.
The advantages of going with the Frenemy:
1. Not a board that you’d really ever have to upgrade from if you didn’t want to
2. Since you’re used to a camber, stiffer board, the Frenemy is probably an easier transition but is still going to be more easy going than what you’re currently on
3. Going to the 147cm Frenemy will be less of a size difference from your current 145cm. All be it that the 149cm Feather will likely feel a similar length on snow a 145cm cambered board – but for things like spins and tricks if you’re starting to learn those, that extra length will make it a little more difficult.
4. The Frenemy is going to be better for carving, once you’re up to getting into carving.
So, I think the 147cm Frenemy, for you at this stage, is the better bet. But if you do stick with the Feather, then I would go 149cm, rather than 144cm.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for the descriptions Nate! Was wondering what you think of the K2 Limelight? Are there any significant differences from the First light?
Hi Kate
Thanks for your message.
The Limelight is more freestyle oriented compared to the First Lite which is more of an all-mountain board. A couple of things that contribute to this:
1. The Lime Lite has a centered stance whereas the First Lite has a setback stance (you stand a little bit back from center on the board)
2. The Lime Lite has a true twin shape, whereas the First Lite has a directional shape (2017 and previous models was a directional twin shape)
What this means in human speak, is that Lime Lite will be better for things like riding switch, for jibbing (which is probably it’s strongest point) wheres the First Lite is better for powder, and a little better for carving turns – but in terms of C turns, S turns and that type of thing, the Lime Lite will be just as easy. It has a similar medium-soft flex (maybe marginally stiffer but barely).
So it would still be a good board to learn on for sure – it’s just that it will be more suitable for riding in the park once you are more advanced, whereas the First Lite would be better over the rest of the mountain. But one thing with going with something like the Lime Lite is that if you were to upgrade to a different all-mountain board later, you would always have a park board that you could go to, if that’s something you got into.
So overall, the First Lite is a better all round board, but the lime light is definitely suitable for a beginner.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
First of all thanks for the article! Really helped a lot with narrowing down choices. I’m 5’2″, 118 lb. I’ve been snowboarding twice – still learning.
I’ve narrowed it down to between two Burton boards, both of them great deals – Genie 3D 14/15 (139+), and Genie 15/16 (141+). Wondering which one is the better fit for me. Could I get away with the 141+ (it’s a better deal!)
Thanks in advance.
Hi Cheryl
I think you would be fine on the 141 Genie. I would put you at a 143cm as a more advanced rider and since you want to take off 3-5cm as a beginner, then that would make it 138 to 140. So 141 is pretty close and I think close enough, especially given that you would get to take advantage of the Channel system on the 15/16 as opposed to the 3D mounting pattern on the 14/15 model.
Hope this helps
Hey!
First of all thank you for this article, it has been very helpful and informative! I’m a beginner with snowboarding, I’ve tried it a few times but I’m still in the process of learning the very basics of it. I’m not interested in the park stuff or learning any tricks right now, I just want a board that would help me learn the basics on-piste. So, which of these boards would you suggest to me as I am quite big: my boot size is around 40,5 (EU) I weight 75 kgs and I’m 173 cm tall so some of these women’s boards are out of question because of too small sizing. Budget however is not an issue, I am willing to invest to this hobby. 🙂
Thank you in advance!
Hi Anna
I think for you a good length would be between 151 and 153.
In terms of width, I would say anything between 242mm and 250mm at the waist. Euro sizes tend to translate differently depending on the brand of boot. But assuming that translates to a 25.5cm or 26.0cm mondoprint, then that will be a good range to look at.
There are a couple of options, but I think the best one is the Rossignol Frenemy in the 153cm. You’ll be very slightly above the weight recommendations but that’s ok because all that will mean is that the board will feel like a softer flex, which in this case is a good thing – as a beginner you will want it a bit softer than the medium flex it has. The Frenemy is a good all-round board too – and it’s something that will last you into a much more advanced level too.
I think that’s your best bet, but you could also go with:
~ YES Emoticon 152 (252mm waist): Getting on the wide side for your boots, but doable
~ Rome Royal 150 (248mm waist): A little shorter than the other options – but also doable. Won’t last as long, in terms of your progression as the Frenemy or Emoticon but will help you to progress quickly. A little cheaper as well
We could also look at men’s boards if you were open to that. Some of the shorter length men’s boards would likely be suitable too – but I think one of those options would work well. But if you did want to look into men’s boards, then here are some options:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps.
Hi,
thanks a lot for your answer! I looked into those boards and I suppose the Frenemy would be a pretty good suit for me. I was also thinking about the Burton Genie as it also has a longer option, but I guess I’ll go with the Frenemy as you didn’t recommend the Genie for me. Now I’m just wondering about what kind of bindings I should get as I’ve already got boots, they’re Atomic Cascade in size 40 1/3 (UK 6,5 MP 25,5), do you have any recommendations on that?
Hi Anna
The only reason that I didn’t suggest the Genie was that it’s something that’s more of a freestyle board. Which is fine as a beginner – but as yo advance you might want something more all-mountain oriented. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go Genie – and the 152 would certainly be a good size. Just that you might need to upgrade a bit sooner than you would with something like the Frenemy. But if that’s not a problem, then the Genie is definitely an option and would certainly aid in fast progression.
For bindings, I would take a look at the following to begin with. Those certainly aren’t the only options, so if you want more options just let me know. But those would all be suitable.
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
If you do go with a Burton board, just be sure to make sure you get something that’s compatible with Burton’s channel system. Most bindings are these days but not all. If you go Burton bindings with the Burton board, then they will be compatible of course – and most other brands should be, but make sure to double check before buying.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
thanks again. Based on this I’ve decided to go with the Frenemy and the Burton Citizen bindings but I’ve still got questions (heh, sorry). First, I found the Frenemy 2017 for a remarkably cheaper price than the 2018 version. Do you know if there’s a big difference between the boards, is going for the 2018 worth the money? My second question is about the size of the bindings. My boot size is in the between of the medium and large size options, so should I go for the bigger or the smaller option with my uk 6,5 boots?
Hi Anna
The 2017 model of the Frenemy is very similar to the 2018 model, so if you can find the 2017 model in your size, then go for it. Just as long as you don’t have to compromise on size to do it.
With UK6.5, I would go for large. If you are in Burton boots, then you might squeeze into the mediums. But for other boots I would say go for Large for sure, to be on the safe side.
Hey Nate!
Very helpful post! I think I have it narrowed down to either the rossignol Tessa or the Rome royal. I am a complete beginner this season but ideally I want to get at least a couple of seasons out of whatever by board I get. I am 5’6″ 120lb, with an 8.5-9 boot and a 25″ waist. I would be riding all mountain/powder mostly. I’m intriqued by the great reviews and growth option of the Tesla, but I like the versatility of the royal. Just wondering which I should choose and what size. I know that generally beginners should go with a shorter board but I don’t want to grow out of it too fast and/or have a hard time in powder (I live in Colorado and my friends are all fresh powder lovers).
Any input would be great, thanks!
Jen
Hi Jen
Normally I would say 141cm to 143cm but since it sounds like you’ll be riding in a lot of powder, then I think we can go to the high end of that or a little longer – but we don’t want to go so long that it’s too difficult to maneuver the board.
Also, since you like to ride powder, then I think the Rome Royal would be the better option – just that you’ll get better float in deep snow with that compared with the Tesla – and because of that naturally better float, you won’t have to go as long as well. Also, for the Tesla if you wanted to go longer than 143cm, you’d have to go to 148cm – which I think is then getting too long. And to top it all off, I think even on the 148cm Tesla, that it would be too narrow for your boots (Rossignol Boards tend to be narrower). I would say we’d want to look at at least a 242mm waist. And a narrower waist is going to have less surface area as well, which will reduce float.
So, based on all of that, I think that the 144cm (244mm waist width) Rome Royal is your best option.
Hope this helps
Hello Nate~
This article is really useful~but i still have some problems~
I am 5’7″ 125lb, with an 8-8.5 boot~
My experience as a boarder would be beginner – intermediate (im not sure~haha). I can go on blues lines and make s-turns already. I started going on the reds and try to make s-turn last season.
I always go to Japan and this year i make the decision that i want to buy my first snowboard!!!!
I remembered that i rent a snowboard with 148 cm usually, but i found the size chart usually show that 149-151 cm is suit for me. I also found 151 cm is suit for people who weight more than 130lb.
I read lots of article about the snowboard, but i still not sure that what kind of board is my board!
Now I consider some snowboards:
Buton：DEJA VU
Buton：custom
Buton：flying V
ROME：LO-FI ROCKER
Capita Paradise
Please give me some suggestions or just tell me which one you think is the best for me XD
Thank you so much~
Lynn
Hi Lynn
I think 148cm is actually about right for you. But since you are at an intermediate level, you could even go 146, 147. I wouldn’t go as long as 151cm for you. I think that would be a bit long, unless you were just planning on riding a lot of powder.
I think looking at around 147 is a good bet – and looking at something between medium-soft and medium. Though if you’re more athletic, then you could go for something that’s a little longer, but probably still around 148 or 149 and look more around medium flex.
And for a size 8 to 8.5 boot (and I’m assuming that you mean Women’s US 8, but correct me if I’m wrong). Then I would be looking at a waist width between 140mm and 248mm.
With all this in mind, I think the following would be good options for you:
~ Capita Paradise: The 149 (239mm waist width) would be a good option. I think, if you consider yourself quite fit/strong. The 147 would be a better bet otherwise (but it is probably getting a bit narrow with its 237mm waist)
~ Rossignol Frenemy: 147 (240mm waist). Or you could even go as long as 150 (241mm waist), if you felt you wanted something longer.
~ YES Emoticon 149 (241mm waist)
For the Custom Flying V and Process Flying V, I think the Process Flying V would probably be the better bet (just that the Custom Flying V is getting a bit stiffer and with the shortest length being a 150cm with a 248mm waist width, I think it’s getting a bit big, especially considering its stiffer. And for the Process Flying V, the shortest length is 152cm, which I think is too long. So, I think you can cross those off the list.
~ Burton Deja Vu: This is similar to the Process Flying V but comes in sizes that would be more suitable for you. For this, the 149cm (242mm waist) or even 146cm (240mm waist) if you wanted to go shorter.
~ Rome Lo-Fi rocker: This is also an option. Again, I would be weighing up the 146 (245mm waist) and the 149 (247mm waist).
Hope this helps with your options. If you want it narrowed down further, if you can let me know how you like to ride (freestyle/park, powder, fast, playful, sticking to the groomed trails etc), we can try to narrow down your options further.
Hope this helps
WOWOWOW!!! Thanks for your reply~~
At Japan, i usually ride on groomed snow and sometimes on powder snow.
So i choose the ALL mountain snowboard (actually i’m not sure is it a good choice ~ha)
Could you also recommend the binding and boots?
Is it better to choose the same brand with snowboard?
And about the snowboots, i choose this “BURTON RITUAL LTD “, but im not sure that is it suit for me.
Thank you so much~its really useful for me~~~
Hi Lynn
There is no reason why you have to choose the same brand for board, boots and bindings. The main thing to watch out for is Burton bindings. They come in 2 different versions 1. a version called “EST” and 2. A version called “Re:Flex”. The EST versions of Burton bindings will only work on Burton boards – but the Re:Flex versions will work on any brand’s board.
Most other brands have ways to make their bindings compatible with Burton boards, if you did end up going with a Burton board but a different brand’s bindings.
For more on that you can check out the following:
>>Binding and Snowboard Compatability
The Burton Ritual LTD should be ok for you. It’s a mid flexing boot. As an intermediate mid-flex will be fine. You wouldn’t want to go stiffer than that, but medium is a good way to go.
For more boot options and also binding options check out the links below:
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
If you’d like me to narrow down your options a bit or if you think you’ve found something you like and want my opinion, let me know.
hello Nate
Thanks your reply~~~
I think i’ll buy the capita paradise~
now im thinking about the binding~
Salom Mirage
union juliet
union trilogy
But i choose ALL-Mountain Bindings, should i choose Beginner Bindings??
Lynn
Hi Lynn
I think all-mountain bindings will be fine for you and will pair well with the Paradise. Just as long as the flex isn’t too much. I wouldn’t go stiffer than a 5/10 for your level. But something around that 5/10 mark would be fine. The bindings you mentioned should be fine.
Hi Nate~
Its good to read your article!!! really helpful~
I still have some problems~
I am 5’2″ 132 lb, with an US 8-8.5 boot~
I think maybe my broader experience is intermediate ~ha.
I have already make s-turn on reds last season but still want to do it more comfortably.
i often ride on groomed snow and sometimes on powder snow. I love powder snow actually.
By the way, i tried to do carving.
i rent a snowboard with 137-140 cm usually, and now i consider to buy a new board.
How do you think which list below~
ROME LO-FI ROCKER
Rossignol Myth
K2 First Lite
Please give me some suggestions or just et me which one you think is the best for me
Really thanks for your patient!!!
Have a nice day~~~
Hi Vivian
I think that the K2 First Lite is probably the best option for you out of those options. Just because it’s going to be better in powder than the other 2 options there.
In terms of length, I would say that something around the 143cm to 144cm mark would be a good size for you. In terms of width, you should probably look at something between 239mm to 245mm, assuming a US8.
For the K2 First Lite, the closest match would be the 142cm – but I think this is getting a little bit narrow for your boot size.
But since you are an intermediate rider, you could also take a look at the following list. These boards are all suitable for powder and carving and come in mostly around the medium flex level – which should be fine for you as an intermediate rider. That would give you more options.
But if you wanted to go with something off this list, then the Rome Royal 144cm would be a great option. The Rossignol Frenemy 144cm would also be a good choice.
Hope this helps
Thanks your reply~
I’m only 158cm, is 143-144cm too long for me?
But i also found if i choose shorter board, the width is too narrow~
Anyway~~~your article is really useful to me!!!
Thank you so much
Hi Vivian
Snowboard sizing is a combination of weight, height, ability and riding preferences – it’s not just about height (as it used to be).
But if you’re used to riding shorter and don’t think you’d be comfortable on something around 143 to 144, then you could look at the following:
~ Burton Genie 142 (or 138) – the width on both of these should be fine. But note that this is more of a freestyle board
~ Rome Royal 141
Hope this helps
Thx your reply~
its really useful for me!!!!
Thanks so much~~~~
You’re very welcome Vivian. Hope you have an awesome season!
beginner taking lessons this year was wondering your thoughts on some products i was recommended
boots – ride harper, or hera if can find a good price which i did!
bindings – ride vxn
board – flying v or anything in the gnu btx-ec2 range
found a good price on a Rossignol Frenemy and considering it since its high on your list, just wasn’t sure if its good for a complete newbie
Hi Renee
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Harper would be fine as beginner boots. The Hera are more medium flex and I would say that they’re more suitable for a high level beginner to intermediate and up, rather than a complete beginner.
The VXN should be fine for a beginner too.
In terms of Burton Flying V boards – yes this is an easy going camber profile that is suited to beginners – but flex is also important. So the Deja Vu Flying V is going to be more suitable to a complete beginner as its softer flexing – the Feelgood Flying V is, like the Ride Hera probably more intermediate or high-end beginner and up.
Again with the GNU boards the BTX (now called original banana) and the EC2 (now C2E) are easy going camber profiles that should be easy to ride, but again, flex should be considered. The B-Nice & Chromatic should be soft enough but the Velvet Gnuru would be more like the Feelgood Flying V in that it’s not as suitable for a complete beginner.
The Frenemy is another that I would put with the Velvet Gnuru and Feelgood Flying V – it’s doable for a complete beginner but it’s just that little bit stiffer which makes it a little less suitable than softer flexing options.
Hope this helps
Nate, great evaluation. Is there any change between the 2017 and 2018 Rome Royal board? I am considering it for my 14 yo daughter (beginner / intermediate) 5’1″, 105 lbs.
Thanks!
Dan
Hi Dan
No changes 2017 to 2018 model as far as I can tell. If there was anything it would be very minor.
My only concern there is that the smallest sized Royal is 141cm, which I think would be a bit long for your daughter at this stage. I’d say Ideally something around 135cm would be best, but I understand that you probably also want at least a little bit of growing room. But I wouldn’t give too much growing room, as it could make the board too difficult/not fun to ride. So maybe going up to 137 or 138 could work but I wouldn’t go as long as 141cm at this stage.
Also, in terms of width, the Royal is a little wider than other women’s boards – if your daughters feet are too far inside the edges, then it can make it harder to initiate turns. If you could let me know her boot size, I would be able to better assess width suitability.
If you’d like I could make some recommendations for something that would be a good fit, if you could let me know her boot size, then I would be happy to do that.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am 5’2″ and weigh between 125-130 lbs. My last snowboard was a 2011-2012 Rome Jett 146cm. It was good board for learning, however, over time I felt that it was too heavy, too long, and not as flexible as I would have liked. I’ve been riding now for about 6 years, but I’m still not very advanced. I’m looking for a board that’s lighter and more flexible and will allow me to learn/advance quicker. A versatile board would be best (good for icy/groomed runs, powder, and possibly some park as I get more ambitious). For personal reasons I’m not interested in Burton or Roxy boards. What boards do you suggest and what lengths? Thanks!
Hi Cassidy
Thanks for your message.
I think based on what you’re describing, that the Rossignol Frenemy could be a good bet. Although if you wanted something a bit softer then the YES Emoticon could be a better choice. Some other options would be the Never Summer Infinity or GNU Gloss.
In terms of size I think 143 to 144cm would be a good size for you. I would put you at a length of roughly 145cm, as an advanced level rider, so taking it down a couple of centimeters would help for a faster progression. Could go even shorter if you were a beginner, but it sounds like you’re at an intermediate level, so I think that would be a good range.
So for the boards mentioned the sizes would be:
~ YES Emoticon: 143cm
~ Never Summer Infinity: 142cm
~ GNU Gloss: 144cm
And just to make sure that those boards have an appropriate width, can you let me know your boot size too.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great website, holds a ton of great information! Im 5’4, weigh about 135lbs and a size 9 in boots. I am a beginner rider (Literally only been out twice) and I was thinking of getting a board somewhere between 144-152 in length, does that sound about right? Also is there any other additional information you have for me? Like maybe certain brands or board widths?
Thanks!
Hi Julia
Thanks for your message.
I certainly wouldn’t go as long as 152. I think a good range for you would be more like 143 to 145.
In terms of width, I would say to look at something between 240mm and 248mm.
I wouldn’t say there are certain brands that do better beginner boards – most brands produce boards that are made for beginners but there are certain specs that can make a snowboard easier or harder to learn on. The main things being that you don’t want a board that’s too stiff as a beginner and you don’t want one with too much camber. For more details on good specs for a beginner board check out the following:
>>How To Choose The Best Snowboard For A Beginner
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great information you have on this website! I’ve been riding a few seasons now using a GNU B-Nice 142 cm board. I’m able to link turns a bit but would like something to help make riding few smoother. I’m 5’4″ and 130 lbs with size 7 boots. Do you have any suggestions on which of the boards on your top list might be a good option?
Hi Jen
Thanks for your message.
The B Nice is beginner friendly and 142cm is a good size for you as a beginner so I think a good idea would be to go a little longer and also go with something that’s a bit more stable. The B Nice is quite a loose board – which can be a good way to start for ease of linking turns – but I think you might like the change to a board that feels a bit more stable underfoot.
I don’t think you should go too long – but adding a couple of cms would be a good idea, I think.
With all that in mind, I think the following would be good options:
~ YES Emoticon 143
~ Rossignol Frenemy 144 – but note that this is going a bit stiffer as well
~ Rossignol Myth 144 – but note that this a freestyle oriented board – which you want notice to begin with but if you don’t end up getting into freestyle, then you’d probably want to change boards after a while
These should all have a good width for you as well.
I think the YES Emoticon 143 would be my pick, there, if you were able to get your hands on that. If you find that nothing there works for you, let me know and I can dig a little deeper to find more options.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thanks so much for your advice, I think I will definitely look into the YES Emoticon a bit more! I also have a friend who is interested in buying her first board. She’s been riding rentals ~139cm (she’s about 5’2″, 180lbs) and attempting to start linking turns. Any thoughts on some good board options for her?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Jen. You’re very welcome.
For your friend, I would say something around 148 to 150 is good for her specs. But that might feel long for her, especially if she’s been riding 139s. The other option is to go a bit shorter but a bit stiffer. In the shorter size it will feel a bit softer than the flex rating is – and the shorter board might feel less daunting.
In this case I would say to look at:
~ Capita Paradise 145cm
~ Rossignol Frenemy 144cm
But since she is used to 139, then she could go on something under the 148 mark on a softer board too – but I would try to still stick to at least 144cm.
What would you say about the Rossignol Frebemy (2015/2016)?
Hi Samantha
The Frenemy hasn’t changed very much at all over the years. The 2015/16 Frenemy is a very similar board to the 2017/18 one.
In general, I’d say that the Frenemy is a great board for icy conditions, if you experience those a lot. It’s also an easy turning board that works well for a beginner that has been riding a little bit but are still new – maybe not for the very very beginner rider unless you’re quite athletic/strong. It’s just a little on the stiff side for a complete beginner.
But if you’ve got some days under your belt or you’ve just started but feel like you’re picking it up quickly, then this is a great first board and one that can last you as long as you want it to.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I have read and reread so many articles that now I just can’t decide! I am a beginner who has only snowboarded a few times throughout my life in Arizona and I just moved to Utah! (lots of powder I’m told?) I don’t think I would ever venture into the park or do tricks. I just want to be able to keep up with my more experience friends. The last time I was on a snowboard was at least 6 years ago so I’m starting from the beginning! I’m 5’6, 140-145 lbs, women’s size 8 boot. I can get any of the boards mentioned on your list so does that mean I should just get the Rome Royal since it’s listed at #1? PLEASE HELP.
Hi Sara
Thanks for your message. Doesn’t mean you should necessarily get the #1 board here. Usually there’s something suitable. I like to score everything because I’m a numbers guy but if there’s a board that’s better suited to your needs, or something that fits your specs better, then the #1 isn’t necessarily the way to go.
Starting with length, I think that something in the 146 to 148cm range is a good way to go for you based on specs and ability.
For width, with size 8s, I’d say something between 236mm and 242mm is a good range to look at. If you know that you’ll have something like +15/-15, +12/-12 binding angles (which are pretty common these days), then you might be able to get a little narrower.
Finally, since you’re likely to encounter a fair bit of powder and aren’t likely to be hitting the park, at least not anytime soon, then I think something that’s all-mountain is a good way to go as it will have a bit of a setback which will help with float in powder.
With all that in mind, I think the following would be great options for you.
~ Rossignol Gala 146cm (234mm waist) – a little on the narrower side but assuming you would be riding with those angles I talked about should be fine
~ K2 First Lite 146cm (236mm waist)
~ Rome Royal 147cm (246mm waist) – this one is getting a bit on the wide side though – this would give you plenty of float in powder and be nice and stable but would be harder to maneuver and take more effort initiate turns
Another option would be:
~ K2 Bright Lite 146 (241mm waist)
Or if you were wanting to go a little more quality but also a slightly steeper learning curve (and a little more costly) – but something that could stay with you without feeling the need to upgrade, then something like these, would work well:
~ Jones Twin Sister 146cm (242mm waist)
~ Never Summer Infinity 147cm (234mm waist)
Hope this helps with your decision.
Thanks for the quick reply! I ordered the Rome Royal 147 and it should be here any day. NOW I need boots and bindings. Based on your articles, was considering the Burton Citizen Bindings (not sure if I should go M or L) and Burton Mint Boots size 8.
Thoughts?
Hi Sara
That boot/binding combination is a good combo for starting out. With Burton 8s you could go with either M or L bindings. I would be leaning towards the Ms.
I have men’s size 10 boots, which is right on the cuff of M and L for men’s bindings, and I prefer to go with Medium but I can ride in the Large. So you can do either or, but just based on my experience, I would be leaning towards M. The only thing that might swing a little towards Large, is that the Royal is a slightly wider board and the Large might fit better across the width (good to have the binding going close to the edges for better leverage) – but you can extend the gas pedal (toe end of the binding) out on the Ms which will help with that. I tend to have the gas pedal extended almost all the way out when I ride my Burton’s.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Love all the information in your article!! I really appreciate you answering questions as I’ve been terribly stuck on what size board to get. I’ve been snowboarding a hand full of times, so still a beginner, but since I enjoy it very much and feel like I’ve been getting the hang of it quicker than expected, I figured it’s time to get a board for this season. My biggest problem though is that I’m pretty much child-sized. I’m 4’10 at 100ish lbs, size 5 boot. I can’t remember the sizes I’ve been given when I’ve rented equipment and I’m not quite sure how what is technically too small or too long for me. Would you recommend sticking to kid’s board or can I manage to be the adult that I am and get a woman’s board? (Haha)
On a side note: I’m also buying my boyfriend a snowboard for Christmas as we’ve picked this hobby up together. He’s 5’10 at 165ish lbs and more on the intermediate side of riding (of course he can pick up any sport and be a fantastic at it after a few tries). Any suggestions?
Sorry for the double questions and thank you in advance! 🙂
Hi Amy
Thanks for the message.
I’d say something like a 135, 136 could work for you – which would give you some women’s options (though there aren’t too many at that size). I probably wouldn’t go longer than that as a beginner – but when you become more advanced you could upgrade to something like a 138cm, which would give you more options.
So I’d say the only real option from this list would be the Rossignol Tesla in the 136 (which would be a good option, IMO).
There are advantages to going with a women’s board over a kids board – as they do tend to put more tech into adults boards (apparently anyway – I don’t have experience with kids boards but that’s what I’ve heard and that’s what the specs suggest). But, if you wanted more options in that 134cm to 136cm range, then a kids board is definitely still an option – and it could be the case that you go with that now and then upgarde to a slightly longer women’s board when you are more advanced. Kid’s boards do tend to be cheaper too, which is a bonus.
For your boyfriend, I’d say something around 156, 157 would be a good range to look at. In terms of width, can you let me know his boot size, then I can advise a good waist width range. Not knowing what style of riding he likes I couldn’t recommend a specific board, but if he likes to do a bit of everything or if he plans to get into a bit of everything, then something from one of the lists below would be a good option. These types of boards are quite versatile (which is usually a good way to go for an intermediate rider). I’d say, if you ride in powder quite a bit, then go all-mountain, if not, then all-mountain-freestyle is probably the better bet.
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I’m a beginner, female, snowboarder and I’m thinking about purchasing the Yes. Emoticon Snowboard in the 152 cm size. I’m 5’6″ and roughly 190 lbs with a size 9 foot. I was thinking because my weight is more than recommended for that length, because of the higher flex level it would even out a bit for a beginner. Is this a good choice for me, do you think? Or do you have any better suggestions?
Thanks
Hi Maya
I think the 152 Emoticon would be a good length for you. And the 252mm waist should be a good fit for your boots. It’s on the wider side, but that extra width also adds surface area for a bit more stability, which is nice if you’re going shorter than you otherwise might. But I think 152 is a pretty good length for you as a beginner anyway. So yeah, I think this would be a good choice.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the great information! I decided to go with the 2017 Rome Royal based on your reviews. I’m a beginner at 5’4” and 150lbs. I’m debating between 147 and 150.. your thoughts?
Hi Nicole
Thanks for the message.
Assuming you are a beginner, I would say go with the 147cm. But can you also let me know your snowboard boot size – or your shoe size if you’re not sure of your boot size (usually pretty similar anyway) so I can double check that it will be appropriate width-wise.
Hey Nate,
First off, great article! Some really great info and tips on here. I’m interested in getting the 2017 Rossignol Gala Amptek, but stuck on the sizing. I’m about 5″, and about 114lb and have been snowboarding about 4 times now (mastered the falling leaf, but working on everything else :p)
Thanks in advance!
Hi Sienna
For your specs, I would say something around 136 to 138 as a beginner. You could go a longer when you’re more advanced (140-142) but for now I wouldn’t go any longer than 139cm if you can help it.
So for the Gala I would say that there isn’t really an appropriate size for you currently. Not every board has an option in this range but there are certainly some in there. If you’d like some other recommendations, I’d be happy to help. Are you looking for something all-mountain in particular? Also if you could let me know your boot size (or your shoe size if you’re not sure of your boot size), then I can also check to make sure that the width of the board is appropriate.
Hope this helps
To add to my earlier message (in case I forgot :s), I’m a US6 in terms of boot size. Just wondering if that’d work with the Rossignol Gala Amptek? Thanks again!
Thanks Sienna – just saw your second message now.
You would be fine with the width of the Gala with US6s, but my concern is the length (as mentioned in my other reply).
Thanks for getting back to me so quickly! Wow, I had no idea I was so far off on the board size. Yup, I’m looking for something all-mountain and would love some recommendations if you had any 🙂
Hi Sienna
I think the K2 First Lite would be a great option for you in the 138cm. I think that would be a good length and width and is all-mountain and also easy to learn on.
K2 Bright Lite 138cm is another option.
Or Burton Deja Vu Flying V 138cm – a bit more pricey but also a good option.
Flow Venus 139cm is another good option, IMO.
Hope this gives you some options.
Nate you’ve been absolutely awesome, thanks so much! Unfortunately I’m working under a bit of a budget, so I’m looking at the older model (2016) of the K2 Bright Lite. The specs look quite different from the 2018 model, but I was wondering if the 2016 model would still work for me?
Besides the 2016 K2 Bright Lite, the Rossignol Tesla Amptek (2017) is also available in a 136cam. It is, however, a bit more expensive, so I’m leaning a lot more towards the 2016 Bright Lite unless you think the Tesla is a vastly superior board? Thanks again!!!
Hi Sienna
The 2016 Bright Lite is a great option. Some changes for the 2018 model, but nothing that changes the board significantly, IMO. It’s still a good board for beginners in terms of flex (medium-soft), and profile (flat to rocker) and the sidecut is the same, the width is the same, the effective edge is the same and it’s still an all-mountain board. Nothing significant is different – so if you can find the 2016 model in the 138cm for cheaper, I’d say go for it.
JUST ORDERED! Thanks so much for your help, not only with the reviews, but taking the time to answer each and every person’s questions. You’re the best! Can’t wait to hit the slopes with my new board 😀
You’re very welcome Sienna. Hope you have a great season and enjoy your new board out there!
Wow man thanks for your hard work.
Just bought the Rome Royal for my finance. I’m a little worried. I’ve been seeing some conflicting opinions about the board for beginners. Last year we picked a board up on the cheap and she had a really, REALLY hard time. I picked it up pretty good. So its important to me she has fun. And her for that matter. I was going after the Capita Space metal fantasy and then they sold out on “evo” I was thinking I made a mistake until I stumbled on to your reviews about the royal. I mean, I’ve even seen people thinking the board is for advanced riders and is stiff and heavy for beginers, which was exactly the issue for her last year. By the way I bought last years model. Which I hope doesn’t very too much in specs. It was less expensive and looks cooler imo anyway.
So what should I do? Candle the order. Or trust you? No pressure! Lol
Hi Danny
I would say that she would be fine with the Royal so long as she gets something that’s the right size. The Royal is a wider board – so it’s good for longer feet. If your fiance’s feet aren’t right for it, then it will feel heavier and harder to turn (because her feet won’t be close enough to the edges to provide easy leverage).
Also, if she was to get a size that was too long it would be much harder to ride.
If you want to let me know her height, weight and boot size, then I can recommend a good size range for her (both width and length) and you can see if the Royal you bought is a suitable size – and if not, then I would return it, but if it’s a good size, then it should be fine.
But if you’re still really worried and want to go with something that’s really soft, you could look at something like the Burton Genie, Ride Rapture or K2 First Lite.
Thanks for an awesome page. I’m new to boarding and thinking of buying my first board as a beginner. I’m considering the K2 but wondering if the 138 cm would be the best option for me as I’m 5’5 (165cm) and just under 110lb, or should I go for the 142 cm board? I have found some boards a bit heavy which makes getting on and off chair lifts a bit of a mission. Any guidance is really appreciated. Thx M
Hi Maryam
As a beginner, I think the 138cm would be the better size for you. If you were a more advanced rider, then the 142 would work for you, but as a beginner, with your specs, then I wouldn’t go longer than 140cm. Something between 138cm and 140cm is a good bet for you, IMO. So the 138 fits that range.
Just to make sure the width of that board will be ok, can you let me know your boot size (or your shoe size if your not sure of your boot size yet).
Hope this helps
Thanks for the prompt response. Shoe size is 5.5 UK 38.5 European size.
Hi Maryam
Thanks for the extra info. You should have no problem with the width on the K2 First Lite 138cm.
Sweet! Thank you!
You’re very welcome – hope you have an awesome season!
Nate: Thanks for all the detailed info, and the many years of answers to these questions! Hopefully this isn’t too much of a repeat question: My wife is 5’7″ tall, 115 lbs without gear, wears a size 7.5 womens boot, she is an absolute beginner and isn’t very aggressive. From what I’ve found in your previous suggestions you would recommend around 146cm for her, does that sound right? There appears to be a good deal on a 2015/16 model Rossignol Gala boards in that size, do you think your review of the current model would be similar to that years model?
Hi Scott
Thanks for your message.
I think 146cm is probably a little long for your wife, as a beginner. I think 146cm would be a good size for her as a more advanced rider, but as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off a few centimeters. A shorter board is easier to control and easier to learn on. I think something between 141cm and 143cm would be a good size for her as a beginner and as someone who doesn’t want to ride aggressively.
As for the Gala – this is a board that hasn’t changed much at all over the years, so if you can find it in a past season’s model for a cheaper price, then that’s a good way to go. But I think that your wife would likely prefer something a little shorter – the 142cm Gala would be what I would recommend. I know you don’t necessarily have that size available in the cheaper price, but ideally that would be the size to go for.
Hope this helps
Wow man thanks for your hard work.
Just bought the Rome Royal for my finance. I’m a little worried. I’ve been seeing some conflicting opinions about the board for beginners. Last year we picked a board up on the cheap and she had a really, REALLY hard time. I picked it up pretty good. So its important to me she has fun. And her for that matter. I was going after the Capita Space metal fantasy and then they sold out on “evo” I was thinking I made a mistake until I stumbled on to your reviews about the royal. I mean, I’ve even seen people thinking the board is for advanced riders and is stiff and heavy for beginers, which was exactly the issue for her last year. By the way I bought last years model. Which I hope doesn’t very too much in specs. It was less expensive and looks cooler imo anyway.
So what should I do? Candle the order. Or trust you? No pressure! Lol
Hi Dan
I did reply to your original message but you may not have seen it. I have copied and pasted it below.
Hi Danny
I would say that she would be fine with the Royal so long as she gets something that’s the right size. The Royal is a wider board – so it’s good for longer feet. If your fiance’s feet aren’t right for it, then it will feel heavier and harder to turn (because her feet won’t be close enough to the edges to provide easy leverage).
Also, if she was to get a size that was too long it would be much harder to ride.
If you want to let me know her height, weight and boot size, then I can recommend a good size range for her (both width and length) and you can see if the Royal you bought is a suitable size – and if not, then I would return it, but if it’s a good size, then it should be fine.
But if you’re still really worried and want to go with something that’s really soft, you could look at something like the Burton Genie, Ride Rapture or K2 First Lite.
Great site! Looking for a recommendation for my wife. She is just beginning. She is 5’4″ , 160 lbs, and wears a size 7.5 boot. Thanks in advance.
Forgot to add to the above were on the East Coast, hard/icy conditions. Thanks again.
Nate, Looking for a board for my wife who is just beginning. We are in the PA, so lot of hard snow and ice. Based on your reviews, Emoticon appears to be a good choice. Need some help on the size. She is 5’4, 160 lbs and wears a 7 – 8 boot. Thanks in advance.
Hi Tim
Thanks for your messages.
I agree on the Emoticon. This would be a great choice for her, especially given your location
In terms of size, I would say anything between 148 and 150 would be good size for her specs and as a beginner. So for the Emoticon the best size for her would be the 149. The 149s waist width of 241mm is also perfectly suitable for size 7.5 (and also fine for 7 or 8 if she ended up in one of those sizes).
Hope this helps
Hey, I did alot of research before buying my board and ended up with a Burton deja vu (152). I’m beginner to intermediate but trying my board out struggled to get it to turn.
Could it be an issue with how I set up my bindings or do you think the board might be too long for me?
I’m 5ft 6 and 158lbs
Thanks!
Hi Fiona
I’d say that the Deja Vu is ok for a beginner – but it’s probably more aptly an intermediate level board. But being beginner to intermediate, you shouldn’t be too far off it. Sometimes a board can take a bit to get used to, especially if it feels different to what you’re used to. I’d say that the 152 is a good size for you. You could have also gone 149 and that would probably have been easier to turn initially. I would say you’re around a 153 to 154, as an advanced rider – but as a beginner to intermediate more like 149 to 152. So I don’t think you’re too far off there. But the length might be slightly long – as these are all just estimates and some of it comes down to personal preference – some people prefer longer and some shorter than what’s typical.
But let’s make sure that the bindings are ok too – and also that the board isn’t too wide for you – if it’s too wide that can make it more difficult to initiate turns.
So starting with width – if you can let me know your boot size, I can assess whether it’s an appropriate width. The other thing is if you could place your barefoot on your board where the bindings go, and roughly on the angles that you usually ride and see how far inside the edges (or over) the edges that it is. Ideally, your bare feet would go from heel edge to edge but without overhanging too much. A little bit inside and a little bit overhanging is ok but if your feet are too far inside the edges, then it will be harder to get leverage on the edges of the board which will make it harder to initiate turns.
In terms of binding setup. Probably the thing that would most cause difficulty with turns would be if you haven’t got your bindings centered width-ways across the board. So, make sure that your heel overhang and toe overhang are as close to equal as possible. So place your boots in your bindings and check the overhang on both edges. If it’s not equal or close to equal, then you will want to adjust it. Sometimes you can’t get it exactly equal, in which case if there’s a difference, there should be more overhang on the heel edge than there is on the toe edge – but try to get it as equal as possible.
Hope this helps and makes sense! Let me know if you have any further questions or need clarification on anything.
Hi Nate, I’m looking to purchase my first snowboard. I rented one last season and could NOT get my turns down. I am 5’4, 140lbs. What board do you recommend buying for someone like me?
Hi Caroline
Thanks for your message.
Something off this list, is a good place to start. And if you had difficulty getting your turns going, then something here that’s a “fast progression” board would be a good way to go, IMO.
Also size is important. Something too long will be harder to learn on. Also, width is important – so if you also rode something too wide, that might have been difficult to get leverage to the edges – and if you’re working too hard physically, then it makes it harder to technically initiate turns and to get those turns smooth. So if you can let me know your boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of your boot size), then I can recommend something that will also be a good width.
In terms of length, I’d say something around a 148cm would be good for your specs as an advanced rider. However, as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off some length (taking off 3-5cm is a good range to look at) so something in the range of 143-145 is probably your best bet. And if you were having difficulties, then I would go for the shorter end of that range. Also this will need to be balanced with width.
So, long story short, I would look at anything on this list around 143cm that is a “fast progression” board. But if you can let me know your boot/shoe size, then we can make sure you get something that’s not too wide or too narrow.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, your article are really helpful. But I still can’t choose the snowboard and binding.
I’m 5’31ft / 120lb with an US6.5-7 boot.
My boarder experience is beginner- intermediate (maybe), I can go blue lines and make S-turn already. Love ride on powder snow. In the future, I want to learn carving.
And I want to buy the snowboard boots, I have 2 options :
BURTON LIMELIGHT BOA 2018
BURTON STASH HUNTER Speed Zone 2018
Please give me some suggestions or suggest to me which is the best for me.
Thanks for your patient.
Hi Jessica
Thanks for your message.
In terms of length, I would go for something in the range of 140cm to 142cm for your specs and ability level.
In terms of width, assuming size 7s, I would say anything from 232mm waist but no more than 240mm waist.
From this list, I would say the following would be great options for you:
~ Rossignol Gala 142cm (232mm waist)
~ K2 First Lite 142cm (234mm waist)
Or if you felt like you wanted to go shorter then the:
~ Rossignol Tesla 139 (234mm waist)
~ Rossignol Myth 139 (234mm waist)
would also work.
If you want some more options, if those aren’t available to you, let me know.
For bindings, I would look at the following lists. Since you’re close to intermediate you could consider the bindings from the second list – but if you wanted to you could also stick to the beginner bindings.
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Size-wise, it would depend on the brand, but you can check out the table in the following post to see the best binding size for your boot size.
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
For boots, I haven’t heard of the Burton Stash Hunter – but looking them up, it likes they would be suitable for your ability level. The Limelight Boa would also work for your ability level, IMO. So either one of those should be fine.
Hope this helps
Hi there! Thank you so much for the detailed guide! I’m a complete beginner with only a few days of boarding and fell in love.
I’m looking to buy the Rossignol Myth but wasn’t sure what length would be good. I’m just under 5’4″, around 107lbs without gear, and around size US6.5 for boots. Based on your other recommended length chart, I should be looking at boards with standard length of 142 but as a beginner, that gets shortened to 137-139. However, the Myth’s recommended maximum weight for the 139 length is only 110lbs. The next length up is 144 and I’m worried that will be too long. Should I go for the 139 or 144, or choose a different board altogether?
Also, if I stick with the Myth, do you have recommended bindings or boots that will go well with the board? I was considering the Flux GU and Burton Citizen, and Burton Mint Boa and K2 Haven based on your other helpful articles.
Thank you so much for your help!
Hi Ri
Thanks for your message.
I think the Rossignol Myth would be a great first board for you – and the 139 is the best size for you, IMO. I think the 144 will be too long for you at this stage. The weight recommendations are only rough guidelines and you are within them anyway – so I wouldn’t worry about that – and Rossignol do tend to be on the light side for their weight recommendations.
In terms of bindings, the Citizen or the Flux GU would both work well with the Myth.
Also the Mint and Haven will also work well with that setup, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your quick reply, Nate! I will try to find that board here.
Are you aware of what the differences may be between each seasons’ versions of the board, bindings, and boots? I’ve tried to look on their websites but there’s very little information and what was updated or revised.
Thanks so much again!
Hi RI
Very little difference between the Myth 2017 and Myth 2018, so if you can find a 2017 model (and previous models haven’t changed that much for a little while) for a cheaper price, in the right size, then that’s definitely an option.
Same applies to the bindings and boots you are looking at – all very similar to 2017 models.
If you’re looking at something further back, then if you could let me know a specific year, I can look into it, but if you’re looking at 2017 models, then they would still be as appropriate as the 2018 models.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I really enjoyed reading your articles and learning more about snowboards. I’m currently looking for a snowboard for myself. I have snowboarded twice a few years back, I wasn’t absolutely terrible but i also wasn’t any good. I’m obviously considered beginner and I am hoping to learn a lot this season. I am 5’4 135-140 lbs. what board do you think would best fit me and what size board would you recommend?
Also have you ever heard of the Aperture Cosmo or know if they’re any good for beginners?
Hi Gabriella
Thanks for your message.
In terms of size, I would say something around a 143, 144cm would be a good range to look at. This is taking into account that you are just starting out.
That gives you the option of most boards on this list. To narrow it down, if you want to progress as fast as possible and aren’t worried about having to upgrade once you become more advanced, then I would take a look at one of the boards on this list that’s tagged with “Fast Progression”. If you want something that will last you a little bit longer, in terms of ability level, then something like the YES Emoticon or Rossi Tesla might be good options. If you ride in icy conditions a lot, then something that’s tagged with Hard/Icy is a good option.
Finally, if you could let me know your boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of boot size yet), then we can narrow down which boards will have the best waist width for you – that might help us to narrow down your options a bit more as well.
I have heard of Aperture snowboards but I don’t really know anything about them – not a brand that I know much about or demo at all. But just based on one site where I found specs onthe Cosmo it sounds like it’s probably a bit stiff to be ideal as a beginners board (6-7/10). Couldn’t say for sure but that would put me off recommending it for a beginner.
Hope this helps
Hi!
Happy new year!
Your reviews rock!!! 🙂
I’m new to snowboarding but I’m doing pretty good (not great but ok considering that I have only been 3 times on the mountain and I’m able to turn without losing control most of the times. I think I’m going to get the K2 first lite but I’m a bit confused about the size. My height is 1.60m and my weight varies between 56 and 58. Should I get the 142 or the 146? Which one would you recommend? Thank u in advance!
Hi Nancy
Thanks for your message.
I would put you on around a 145cm at an advanced level. But as a beginner, even as a fast progressing one by the sounds of it, I wouldn’t go longer than 142, 143. As a rule of thumb I usually recommend to take off 3-5cm as a beginner – so that would be 140 to 142 for you. So, I think the 142 would be the best option for you, for sure.
Hope this helps
Helps a lot! Thank u very much!!! 🙂
You’re very welcome. Hope you have a great season!
Hi there Nate, a couple of years ago when I was planning my first snowboarding trip to Whistler you recommended the Yes Emoticon Board for me. I also chose the flux bindings and 32 boots based on your reviews. They were all awesome suggestions and as I head out to my 3rd season of snowboarding in Whistler I’m still totally satisfied with my gear as it progressed with me perfectly.
You made my learning experience much more enjoyable and I just wanted to say thankyou again for such an awesome blog, you totally rock!
Hi Bianca
Thanks for letting me know. I love getting messages like this! Hope you have an awesome trip to Whistler!
Hi Nate,
I have been riding for the past 7 seasons but I am very much still a beginner. I am 5’1″ and weigh 110. My bindings are K2 Clincher and shoe size is womens 6.5. My first board was Rossignol 139 all camber board which I could not turn. On advice from a shop “pro”, I bought a Ride Rapture 143 which was ok but still had trouble turning on green trails. Thinking it was the board’s length, I bought a Rapture 138 on sale which I currently ride. I have had sightly better success turning this board but as with ever beginner I am still over turning the board to slow down…working on that.
My question: Do you think this is the right board for my height and weight?
My daughter (who is 12) just got a girls K2 Kandi 134cm. I have actually thought about trying it! We ride 7-8 times per season on average, mostly east coast riding.
Thank you in advance for the advice. Much appreciated!!
Nicole
Hi Nicole
Thanks for your message.
I would put you on around a 140cm at an advanced level. As a beginner, taking off 3-5cm is a good idea – so that would put you in the range of 135 to 137. As a beginner with a bet of experience though, I would say that 138cm should be fine for you – but definitely good to go down to that as I think the 143cm was too long for you.
The other thing is the width. Even the 138 (I’m assuming 2017 model or earlier as there isn’t a 138 for the 2018 models) has a 238mm waist on it, which is getting on the wide side for 6.5s. The 240mm would have been even worse on the 143cm. So, I think something narrower would also help. If a board is too wide it’s more effort to turn it.
The K2 kandi 134 has a 226mm waist on it, so it’s considerably narrower. I would definitely try riding that and see what you think. If it’s considerably easier for you to ride, then I would definitely consider something narrower – it’s shorter as well, but I still think you would be better off on something at least 136cm – but if you did like it, then that width might be part of the problem. And it could also be that you just like something a little shorter. But yeah, I’d try your daughters board and see what you think.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the advice! That makes sense..I did notice that the Rapture seems to be wider compared to a friends board that is the same size.
Assuming I like the width of my daughter’s board, are there any boards in the 135-137cm range that you would recommend? I like the catch free twin rocker of the Rapture since I do ride switch often and also the “surfy” feel.
Hi Nicole
The K2 First Lite 138cm would be a good choice for you, IMO. A narrower board – and I think 138 would be fine for you, assuming it’s a bit narrowe. The 138 First Lite has a 232mm waist – so it should be a good width. The First Lite has the same type of camber profile (Flat-to-Rocker) as the Rapture too. It does have a setback stance though – so not as suitable for riding switch.
The K2 Lime Lite 138cm (236mm waist) does have a true twin shape and centered stance like the Rapture and the same camber profile (flat-to-rocker). It’s a little wider at waist, but it’s still overall narrower than that Rapture – Rapture 138 = 238mm waist, 279mm tip and tail. First Lite = 232mm waist, 273mm tip and tail and the Lime Lite is 236mm waist, 271mm tip and tail. So overall it is narrower, so this could be a good option.
The Rossignol Tesla 136 (232mm waist, 271mm tip and tail) is another option. It’s a shorter length and the narrowest option so far. It’s also got the true twin shape and centered stance. It isn’t a flat to rocker camber profile. There is some camber there between the feet (in place of the flat sections on the other boards) – but there isn’t a lot of camber going on there – it’s mostly rocker (20% camber, 80% rocker), so I think you’d still like the feel of that.
Unfortunately there aren’t heaps of options in that length range without looking to youth boards (which I know very little about) but in saying that, I think any one of those options could work for you.
Hope this gives you some options to consider.
Thank you!! This helps alot!
You’re very welcome Nicole. Hope you have a great season!
Hi there Nate,
I’m Isabella from Italy , new to snowboarding ( a few lessons taken) and not able very well to turn yet 🙁 .
I’m using a Capita horrorscope 1.50 m (2014/2015) (rented at school) but I’d like to buy my first snowboard for my birthday. I’m a bit confused about the size. My height is 1.72 m and my weight varies between 63 and 65 kg . Which one would you recommend? Thank u in advance!
Hi Isabella
Thanks for your message.
At an advanced level I would put you on something around a 151 – but as a beginner it’s a really good idea to go shorter – as a rule of thumb take off 3-5cm. So, for you, that would between 146 to 148 would be a good range to look at.
So whilst I consider the Horrorscope a good board for beginners, I think it’s too long for you – and it’s likely to be a 151cm if it’s the 2014/15 model. Also, this is potentially too wide for you as well (252mm waist width) – width is another thing that’s important to get right – it doesn’t have to be exact but going too wide can make it much harder to turn. The Horrorscope is a men’s board – and whilst there is no problem with that in general, men’s boards are often too wide for women. But if you could let me know your boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of your boot size yet), then I can recommend what a good width would be.
Finding out the width might also be able to narrow down your options more.
Hope this helps