Below is what I consider to be the top 10 beginner snowboards for women currently on the market.
This list has been updated for the 2022-23 season.
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 Stylus
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 91/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Beginner
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (2/10)
Starting off the list at #10, we have the Burton Stylus.
The Stylus is a super easy ride - 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. Or wants a fun, playful board for messing around with or beating up in the park in the future.
Score Breakdown for the Stylus
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 5.0 | 25/25 |
PRICE | 4.5 | 9/10 |
VERSATILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SHAPE & STANCE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
BASE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #9
Board: Rossignol Myth
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 91/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
Next up is the Rossignol Myth.
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, particularly if you get into more all-mountain/freeride type riding.
Score Breakdown for the Myth
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 5.0 | 25/25 |
PRICE | 4.5 | 9/10 |
VERSATILITY | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SHAPE & STANCE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
BASE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #8
Board: Salomon Lotus
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 91/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (3/10)
The Lotus is a versatile all-mountain board that's great for progression, particularly if you think you want to transition into a camber dominant board in the future.
There isn't any rocker in the camber profile which would usually cause me to cross it off the list straight away, but the Lotus has edges that are slightly turned up at the contact points, allowing for easy turn initiations and a more catch free ride.
Salomon Lotus Score Breakdown
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 5.0 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.0 | 20/25 |
PRICE | 5.0 | 10/10 |
VERSATILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHAPE & STANCE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
BASE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #7
Board: Nidecker Elle
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 91.5/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
At #7 we have the Nidecker Elle.
The Elle's friendly camber profile, coupled with it's mid-soft flex, make it easy to ride and helps you build confidence. And being nice and versatile means you can progress down whichever style of snowboarding you develop into.
It's also the cheapest board on this list, so won't put as deep a dent into your bank account either.
Check out the video for more on the Elle
The Elle’s Score Breakdown
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4.5 | 18/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 5.0 | 25/25 |
PRICE | 5.0 | 10/10 |
VERSATILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHAPE & STANCE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
BASE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.5/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #6
Board: Ride Heartbreaker
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (2/10)
The Ride Heartbreaker comes in at #5 and has a nice soft flex and is an easy, catch-free ride.
It's maybe not the most versatile, being a more freestyle/park oriented board - but otherwise it's very beginner friendly - and if you think you're going to get into freestyle riding at some point, it's a great investment - something that you can learn your core skills on now - and then have as a park board for later.
Check out the Video for More on the Heartbreaker
The Heartbreaker's Score Breakdown
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
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 after normalizing | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #5
Board: Rossignol Soulside
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (3/10)
The Rossignol Soulside, coming in at #5, is new for 2023 and replaces the Gala in the Rossi line. It's not exactly the same board but pretty close. And most importantly for this list, it's just as good as a beginner board.
It has all the ingredients you want in a beginner board, soft, easy to ride and versatile. It's a little pricier than most on this list, but still less pricey than the average snowboard.
Score Breakdown for the Soulside
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 5.0 | 25/25 |
PRICE | 4.0 | 8/10 |
VERSATILITY | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SHAPE & STANCE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
BASE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #4
Board: Arbor Ethos
- CA
- UK/EU
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain-Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
The Ethos is practically 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 snowboarding journey started on.
Learn More About the Ethos in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Ethos
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.0 | 16/20 |
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 after normalizing | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #3
Board: Roxy Dawn
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 92/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-intermediate
Style of Board: Freestyle
Flex: Soft (3/10)
The Roxy Dawn comes in at #3. It's another more freestyle focused deck. Great for those that simply want an easy riding board to progress quickly on or someone who sees freestyle in their future.
It's easy turning, yet stable and comes in at a nice friendly price.
Roxy Dawn Score Breakdown
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
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 after normalizing | 92/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #2
Board: K2 First Lite
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 93/100
Ability Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (2/10)
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.
Score Breakdown for the First Lite
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5.0 | 20/20 |
STABILITY | 4.5 | 18/20 |
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 after normalizing | 93/100 |
BEGINNER BOARD #1
Board: Nitro Lectra
- CA
Beginner Board Rating Score: 94/100
Ability Level: Beginner-to-Intermediate
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Flex: Soft (3/10)
And finally the #1 board in this list 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 and makes it really unlikely to catch an edge. That, plus it's really versatile, so it can take you into whatever style you naturally progress towards.
It's also the 2nd cheapest on this list, so you won't have to make as much of an investment getting your first board compared to most other boards.
Learn More About the Lectra in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Lectra
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
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 | 4.0 | 4/5 |
BASE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 94/100 |
Over to You
So there you have it – Snowboarding Profiles’ Top 10 Beginner Snowboards for Women for the 2022/23 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 2022 model, it will likely be close enough to the 2023 model but you can get it cheaper, if available in a suitable size.
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
Hi Nate!
Love your reviews! I’ve been looking to pick up my first board while things are on discount for next season. This past season was my first real year on a board, so I’m very much a beginner. 5 lessons, maybe 10 days on the mountain total. I am just starting to link my turns. Will be riding on the west coast (Canada, California). My stats! 125, 5’3, size 8 boot. I was eyeing the Ehtos but I think my boots are going to be too big for it. Also considering the Burton Stylus in 142″ but worry I will outgrow it too fast. What do you think of the Burton Hideaway in 144″?
Hi Kayce
Thanks for your message.
I think the Ethos 141 would work for you. I think the width will be fine for your boots. Arbor boards have a wider width at the inserts than you would expect for their waist width – and I think you’d probably get away with that width with 8s anyway. I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 145, but as a beginner I would size down a bit from that. So I think the Ethos in 141 would be a good bet, as would the Stylus in 142. The Hideaway in 144 might be bordering on a little too big for right now, especially given the extra effective edge it has over the other 2. It’s a size that would work well for you, if you were more advanced.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thank you for the quick reply! Out of the two (ethos, stylus) which do you think will give me the most seasons before I need to upgrade? I get maybe 10-15 days in a season since I don’t live near a mountain. Also, are there other boards I should consider? I had someone suggest the LibTech Glider to me, but I see it’s in your intermediate lineup. Maybe too much board for me right now? Thank you again!
Hi Kayce
Not much in it between them, I would say, but I think the Ethos would give you a little more time before needing to upgrade and is a little more versatile.
Given you’ll be doing 10-15 days a season, I think the Glider could work. A little more challenging to begin with but you’d get used to it pretty quickly. The thing with the Glider that makes it a little trickier isn’t with turn initiations, which you should find really easy to initiate turns on, but more that it’s a looser feeling, which can make getting off the lift trickier.
Is the Nitro Lectra 138 okay for a size 6.5 boots? The waist width is 126mm and I’m worried its too narrow. I’m 5ft 115lbs. Thanks!
Hi Mooky
Thanks for your messages.
Firstly, with 6.5s, I don’t think the Lectra 138 would be too narrow.
The Lime Lite, IMO, is going to be better for progressing to carving, even though it is more of a park board. It would give you that introduction to camber and camber is, IMO, pretty much always better for carving than a profile without carving. So it would give you that intro to camber at the very least. It’s the kind of board that would progress with you for a little longer. It will be a little more of a challenge to begin with vs the Lectra, but it’s nothing crazy advanced or anything, IMO.
Length-wise, I would put your “typical all mountain length” at around 141. But as a beginner, it’s a good idea to err a little shorter. So for the Lectra, I think you’d be best with the 138 and with the Lime Lite also the 138.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate!
I’ve gone snowboarding about 5-6 times the past 3 years but I’m only just learning toe edges and turns now. I’m thinking of getting a used K2 Lime Lite 2022 or a Nitro Lectra 2022. I want a board that I can progress with and keep for a while. I’m not particularly interested in park which I know the K2 is a freestyle board but I do want to eventually do carving. Which one would be more suitable for me?
Hi Nate
Thanks for all the great information!
I am a beginner rider from Canada. This is my first season, still working on linking my turns. I currently use a hand me down Forum Amor 146cm board with Ride lx bindings, I find I don’t have enough leverage over my edge.
Looking to upgrade to a newer board.
I am 5’6 125lb wear us6 boots. I know Roxy Raina is not on your list, but do you think the 147 will be a good fit for me? Or should I down size for a narrower board?
Thanks
Su
Hi Su
Thanks for your message.
I don’t know the Forum Amor well, but it looks to be a relative narrow board, so I don’t think you’re going to help too much with leverage going 147 Roxy Raina (which is wider than the Forum Amor (I’m looking at specs on a 2010 model). The Raina will still likely be a little easier to turn, given that the Amor looks to be a full camber board. But I would try something shorter as well. Whilst I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 146, as a beginner I would size down. I would be looking more in the size range 141-144. The 143 Roxy Raina could work but I don’t think the 147 would give you enough of an easier ride to be worth it.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for your answer Nate!
It’s make sense and my board wasn’t really waxed (only the company wax) so it didn’t help.
To answer to your question : “Which bindings did you use on it, Escapade or Scribe? And which size did you end up going with for the Spirit?”
I went with the 138 and used the Scribe on it.
I already love this board (even if I had tricky moments with it). I can’t wait to try it waxed. I love how easy it is to jump with it, it’s make me feel more natural and I will improve my skills for sure.
So, I think that I will probably invest in other bindings for this specific board. It could maybe worth the money. I will go at the boardshop to try the bindings that you said.
Thanks again for your excellent advices.
You’re very welcome Alexandra. Hope it treats you well for the rest of the season.
That’s the size I would have gone for and the bindings I probably would have put on it, but yeah, a softer binding would be more ideal.
Do the Union Ultra bindings could be a good match too? I tried them at the boardshop. The ankle strap looks super soft but I am not sure for the highback flex.
I am hesitating between the Burton Citizen and the Ultra (if they are a better match than the Scribe).
Hi Alexandra
The Ultra is certainly a higher quality binding than the Citizen (IMO) but a little stiffer. I would say it’s a good match, but it’s close in flex to the Scribe, IMO, in terms of highback and baseplate flex. I think they would work but my biggest hesitation is that you’re not really going to be going softer overall with them.
Hey Nate!
Finally I prefer my Yes Emoticon to the Bataleon Spirit. I realized that I need a board that is enough good and safe for carving and moderate speed even if I want to do jump with it.
I would have liked that the Emoticon exist in smaller size than 143 and be poppy like the Bataleon 138 is for me.
Thanks
hi nate,
After reading the whole site i’m doubting about buying the nitro lectra.
I only have a few hours indoor experience and 10 days in the mountain.
I’m 152 Lbs, 163 cm and have a small foot (6us).
I have a nitro mystique 146 now but it does not feel great.
Overall, i want to chase off the mountain and when i’m ready to some little tricks like an ollie , 180’s…
You think it could be a match?
Hi Valentine
Thanks for your message.
The Lectra should feel like a board that’s easier to ride/progress on, so it could be a match.
Based on specs, they look to be the same exact shape, but the Mystique has a Hybrid Rocker profile vs the Flat-to-rocker on the Lectra. The Lectra is also softer flexing, which will be the main thing that should make the Lectra an easier ride. Size-wise, I think you’re good at 146. I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 150, but with your foot size, it’s a good idea to size down. Also a good idea to size down as a beginner. But I think 142 would be sizing down too far, IMO. 146 should be a good length for you, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I am a beginner from Hong Kong and mainly ride in Japan. I am wondering is there any board is good for both icy and powder condition? Thanks a lot!
Hi Rai
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, there are definitely boards that are good in icy conditions and powder. Given where you’re commenting I’m assuming you’re also looking for something beginner friendly? In which case, I would look at (all opinions):
– YES Hello (not quite beginner, but if you’re a high-end beginner, bordering on low intermediate, then it’s a very good choice). Very good in icy conditions. Not a powder specialist, but above average in powder.
– Never Summer Infinity – again more of a high-end beginner/low intermediate and again not amazing in powder, but certainly above average. Not quite as good as hello in icy conditions but still good.
– Rossignol Soulside – a more pure beginner option. Above average in powder and whilst not as good as Hello in icy conditions, still decent.
– GNU Chromatic – another that’s very beginner friendly and good in powder and icy conditions.
If you have the choice of any of these, I would be leaning YES Hello if you are a higher end beginner and I would be leaning GNU Chromatic if you’re more of a beginner-beginner. But I wanted to include a couple of options in case you didn’t have the availability. Also note that sizing is important. I am happy to give a sizing opinion for any of these boards – would just need your height, weight and boot size.
Hope this helps
I think I am a high-end beginner. I am 156cm and 62kg female. I haven’t got my own boots yet. I am still reading your articles about how to choose boot, but my foot length is 22.5cm. Thanks!
Hi Rai
I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 147. Which would make the 146 YES Hello doable length-wise. But with your foot size, I would want to size it down a bit. If the Hello came in a 143/144, then I would go with that, but unfortunatley it’s smallest size is a 146. So I would be leaning Infinity if you can find it in a 145.
For the Chromatic I’d be looking at the 143 and the 145 for the Soulside.
Thanks Nate, I will try to find Infinity 145.
You’re very welcome Rai. Hope you can find it – and hope you have an awesome season!
Hey Nate!
Thank you so much for all your info and reviews. May I also ask for some advice? I’m a beginner with around 25 hours of experience. I’ve done my level 5 and I’m able to do big and small ‘s’ turns at relatively high speeds, with good technique. My instructor says I’d manage blue runs on the resort.
I currently ride a Burton Hideaway 148cm but feel it’s not great for trying pops and ollies so I want a board I can progress on. I learned in the indoor snow dome but will be riding a combination of Scottish resort groomers (I realise you won’t have any experience if this) and indoor fake snow at the moment. I do want to start trying boxes soon too. I’m using the Burton Scribe size medium bindings, Vans OG boots in a UK5 (I think that’s a 7.5 in the US), I’m 5ft 7” and 120lbs. I was thinking about the Yes Basic, but up for any suggestions at all. I’m also open to updating bindings if I need to.
Thank you in advance for any help/suggestions.
Michelle
Hi Michelle
Thanks for your message.
I think the YES Women’s Basic would definitely be a good option. Based on what you’re describing, you could also check out this list and this list. And I’d be particularly looking at:
– YES Women’s Basic (as you’ve already mentioned)
– Capita Space Metal Fantasy
– Lib Tech Glider
– Arbor Poparazzi Rocker
– Never Summer Women’s Proto Slinger
– Niche Minx
– Rome Heist
Noting that the last 3 there are slightly more challenging rides, but still doable. Also make sure to look at the score breakdowns for each board, to make sure it has what you want.
Size-wise, I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 146cm. However since it sounds like you’ve got more freestyle leanings, I would size down from that. Further, that 146 sizes assumes an advanced level, so I’d size down again. So I’d look in that 141-143 range.
Hope this helps
This is awesome, thank you soooo much, I really appreciate it. And my current bindings will work for any of these boards? Thanks again!
Hi Michelle
The Scribe are a good match for any of these boards, IMO. They are a good flex match. Assuming you have the Re:Flex model (which the Scribe don’t come in an EST model (which is only compatible with Burton boards) so you should be good. You will have received 2 sets of discs with the Scribe – the discs you’re using with the Hideaway will be the EST discs. You’ll need to switch to the Re:Flex discs to fit on these boards, but so long as you have those, they will be compatible.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the great information that you provide.
I am coming back from a five year hiatus and looking to buy a new board and would love to hear your recommendations of boards for me. Before the hiatus, I could go down a green using big S turns. Tho, I know I don’t have the proper techniques down (ie, improper weight distribution, skidding turns, etc). Coming back from the hiatus, I have been out once this season and I felt decent on a green. I am looking to take a few lessons to learn proper snowboarding techniques and I am hoping to go >15 times this season.
I will be snowboarding in icy (Ontario, Canada) or man made snow. I’m 5’3″, 130lb, size 5.5 Women’s boot. My previous board was a 146.
Any specific board recommendation?
Thanks!
Hi Joyce
Thanks for your message.
Firstly in terms of sizing, I would size down a little from 146, if you can. Whilst I would put your “standard all mountain length” at 146 for your height/weight, most boards at that length are going to be on the wide side for your foot size. Sizing down length a little to compensate for the board being too wide is a good idea, IMO. And the fact that you’re closer to the beginner end of the spectrum, sizing down makes sense too. Given you’ve ridden a 146 and didn’t have too many issues with it (if I’m reading that right), then you don’t need to size down too much, but I’d be looking in the 142-144 range.
Given you’re in icy conditions, I would be looking at something like:
– YES Women’s Basic (formerly called the Emoticon) – not on this list but would’ve been 11th
– GNU Chromatic – not on this list but would’ve been 12th
– Roxy Dawn
Something like the Salomon Lotus or Rossignol Soulside would work too, but not quite as good in icy conditions, IMO.
If you wanted to step things up a little bit, then something like the GNU Velvet or Never Summer Infinity would also be good bets – not quite something I would call beginner, but high-end beginner/low intermediate doable.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your reply.
I see that the YES Women’s Basic is also on the intermediate list of snowboards. Does that mean I can progress with this board further than with Roxy Dawn or GNU Chromatic? Or are they similar?
The Roxy Dawn is the cheapest out of the three, with a difference of $130. Debating if I spend the money now, or get a cheaper board now and then upgrade later to an intermediate board.
Hi Joyce
Yeah, I would say you can progress further with the Women’s Basic than you could with the Dawn or Chromatic. I’d say the Dawn would be the easiest/fastest to progress on, but will be something you’ll like have to update quicker from. So, if you want that really quick/easy progression and willing to upgrade sooner, then that’s definitely an option. The Women’s Basic isn’t going to be hard/slow to progress on – still a beginner suitable board, but just a little more challenging to start out. But will likely last you longer progression-wise.
Hi Nate!
I would like to try a new board to learn freestyle specifically (mainly jumps, 180-360 jumps, switch and boxes). I am an intermediate snowboarder. I am 5’1″ and 125 lbs. I already have a Yes Emoticon 143 and a GNU Ladieschoice 142.5. I love them, but they aren’t soft/forgiving enough to try jackass things (I don’t have enough self-confidence). I have Burton Scribe (M) and Burton Escapade (M) bindings and Burton Ritual (6.5) boots.
I would like a board :
– really funny and +++forgiving (free edge-catch)
– light and easy to turn and jump
– soft (under 4/10)
– who’s good in icy conditions
– who’s okay for freestyle in slopes not only park
– maybe a little bit smaller than my other boards
– that will help me to improve my freestyle skills fast and help to get self-confidence
To sum it up, I want a toy to play in the snow 🙂
Can you suggest me some boards please.
Hope you can help me with this.
Thanks and have a nice day!
Hi Alexandra
Thanks for your message and apologies for the slow reply – have been super busy the last few days.
I think the Roxy Dawn would be a good bet for what you’re describing and I would also check out the Bataleon Feelbetter and Bataleon Spirit.
I agree that sizing down is a good idea, given it will be your dedicated freestyle board, so I’d be looking at the 138 for the Roxy Dawn and for the Feelbetter or Spirit you could either go 138 or 140, but I’d be leaning 138, given it will be your dedicated freestyle deck.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate!
These 3 boards look cool. Can you give me the + and – of each one. It will be easier to make a choice 🙂
Will I be okay to use my bindings with these boards or should I be better to buy others bindings with a softer flex?
Thanks and happy New Year!
Hi Alexandra
I think you’d be OK using either the Scribe or Escapade on these boards. Ideally you’d want to go a little softer for how you’re looking to ride them, but those are doable.
Pros and cons of each, I would say:
– A little more pop from the Bataleon’s – a little better on jumps overall
– A little more icy edge hold from the Dawn, but not much in it
– None of them are going to be great carvers but the Bataleon’s a little better than the Dawn, with the Feelbetter being better than the Spirit and same would go for speed
Thanks Nate!
I chose the Spirit, it is my favorite design.
I love how light this board is and it’s so easy to flex 🙂
But there is one thing, maybe it is me or something else : I find it is tricky to turn, like if I catch a edge? Maybe it is my bindings who responded too fast? (If yes, which bindings would you recommend?) Or I need to learn again my turns with this board?
Anyway I will not give up, I know that I need to get used to this new board 🙂
Have a nice day!
Hi Alexandra
Thanks for the update.
It will take a little getting used to, particularly with something like Bataleon and the 3BT, it’s a bit of a different feel. It’s hard to say for sure, but the bindings may be making it a little too twitchy, which can happen with stiffer bindings on a softer board. No guarantees that’s the issue but it’s a possibility. If you were going to change your bindings, I would go softer – max 4/10 flex. So something like the Union Rosa, K2 Meridian, Ride CL-2 (or CL-4), Burton Citizen.
Which bindings did you use on it, Escapade or Scribe? And which size did you end up going with for the Spirit?
Hey Nate, Thank you for this list you put together. It has really helped me ,even reading through the comments helped!
Question: So last season was my first time snowboarding , I fell a lot but got a up a few times too. I rented gear and I’m sure it wasnt properly sized for me because I thought my knees were going to snap off! orrr maybe thats normal??? Anyways This season I plan on going at least 3-6 more times with friends. Im looking for a really cute and not super expensive board. I am a fast learner so I am sure that I will do better throughout this season… I have a background dabling in skateboarding ( nickle boards) , and surfing ( long foam boards)
My height is 5’2 1/2 Weight: 110lbs shoe size varies between 6.5-7
Any reccomndations on board/binding/shoe size?
– Thank you in advance 🙂
Hi Nicaya
Thanks for your message.
I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 141/142, but that would assumed an advanced level. As a rule of thumb I would take off 3-5cm as a beginner. So something in that 137-140 range is your best bet, IMO.
For boots it’s hard to say for sure what size you’ll be and it can depend on the brand as well. Which is why, if you get the chance, that if you can try on in person it’s best. But even if you can try on in person you want to know what you’re looking for, which is where the following will help:
>>How to Size Snowboard Boots
And if you can’t try on in person, here’s some things about different brands to see if it can help narrow down what might suit your feet/ankles best
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
In terms of size, you’re most likely to end up in a 6.5, I would say, based on your shoe sizes, but could be anything from a 6 to a 7, I would say.
For bindings, it will depend on the boot size you end up with and on the binding brand. The following will help you determine which you’re most likely to end up in , depending on the brand:
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
If you narrow it down to a few specific boards you’ve got your eye on, I would be happy to give you specific sizing for each board – and if you’re not sure about any boots/bindings you’re looking at for suitability and sizing, let me know.
Hope this helps
Hi!
Thanks for the content!
I’m beginning to learn and was about to purchase a K2 First Lite when someone said that it was not a good snowboard for Ontario, Canada.
Mt Saint Louis and Blue Mountain, basically is where I’m beginning because they’re closer to Toronto.
Is there a problem with the type of snow or mountain? Like from snow machines. I’m lost with all the information!
I’d appreciate any tip regarding this!
5’1 and 125 lb, was thinking about getting a 141~143.
Thank you!
Hi Larisse
Thanks for your message.
Main reason it’s not ideal is that it’s not great in icy conditions, which are supposed to be quite prevalent our your way. I’ve never ridden in Ontario, so I don’t know first hand, but I’ve heard it’s often icy. So something that has good icy edge hold is a good idea.
My first choice would be the YES Emoticon. It didn’t quite make this list, but still a good beginner option (would have been 11th). Another that’s not on this list is the GNU Chromatic (would have been 12th). Also something like the Roxy Dawn or Rossignol Soulside or Salomon Lotus should be OK in those conditions too.
Size-wise, I think you should be good in that range. I wouldn’t go longer than 143 at this point, but you could go down to 140 as well if you wanted.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the suggestions, Nate!
I found two options for used Salomon Lotus here in my area, already with bindings.
2012 model – 138 cm and
2013 model – 142 cm.
So I’m gonna consider those for now. I was afraid that 138 could be too short for me, but shouldn’t be so bad right?
I might stick with second hand boards in the beginning to be able to change if necessary.
Thanks a lot for all the information you put together in this page!
I just realized that maybe the profiles from previous versions are different.
Would something like an Roxy Ally BTX 2016 work?
Thanks!
Hi Larisse
Yeah it looks like the Lotus has a straight out flat camber profile for the 2012 and 2013 models. They still describe it a catch-free but I’ve never found all flat to be super catch-free. They probably detune the edges to help with catchiness but couldn’t say for sure how it would feel.
I think the Roxy Ally could work for sure. Should be nice and catch-free and easy to turn. The only thing would be getting used to coming off the lift with it – the BTX profile produces quite a loose feeling ride. Really easy to ride, but can feel quite loose when coming off the lift to start. Otherwise I think it would work well. Size-wise, you could do the 143 or even the 139. But if you could also let me know your boot size, so I can confirm appropriate sizing for width.
Hi! Yesterday, ended up buying the new Lotus, 142 cm! 😀
It was on sale due to boxing day.
Paid the price people were asking on the used boards, so I think it was a good deal. If I don’t get used to it, won’t loose a lot of money.
The rented boot I used was 7, but it was too tight on my toes. I’m buying the 7.5, but testing it just to make sure.
And for the bindings, I found the Salomon rhythm with a good price (I think) ~150 taxes included, also because of boxing day.
Not sure yet which to buy, cause I’m also looking at some vendettas on sale. Do you think they would be ok to start?
This page helped a lot for both my husband and I!
Thank you!
Hi Larisse
Great to hear you found a good deal!
The Vendetta are going to be a little stiffer, I would say than the Rhythm, but not much in it. Both would work and wouldn’t be a lot in it, but the Rhythm probably a little better in terms of flex match to the board – but that would be being fussy, the Vendetta should be fine to match with as well.
Hi Nate!
Thanks for all of the advice. I’m looking to buy my first board – I’ve had a total of 5 days out on the mountain over the last two seasons, and would say I’m at a solid Level 3 from your guide (falling leaf on blues is no problem, but linking turns coming a little more slowly). This year, I have an Ikon pass, so will be riding more often and hopefully progressing more quickly. I’d like to buy a board that will last (especially because I have work helping me with cost of this one, so can invest some extra $$ :)) So, my first question is, do you think I should focus on this list of boards, or consider the intermediate options as well? At what point will I “outgrow” this list?
Thanks!!
Hi Rachel
Given you’re going to be spending more time this year, I think you could probably move up to the Intermediate list. Typically I would suggest waiting until you’re level 4 to graduate to that, so it might be a bit of a steeper learning curve (something from this list would allow you to progress a little easier), but I think you could manage it. If you were going to be doing a couple more 2-3 day season’s, then I’d stick with this list. But if you’re going to be spending a good amount of time riding and you’re at level 3 now, then chances are pretty good you could outgrow one of these this season, depending on how often you go.
Totally up to you, but if you don’t want to have to upgrade too soon and willing for a bit more of a challenge to start with, then the intermediate list is the way to go.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate – thanks for your response. Since I’m in that borderline range, are there any from the intermediate list in particular you’d recommend?
I’ve been considering Capita Paradise (141) or Never Summer Infinity (142). I’ll be riding mostly at Palisades/Alpine with probably a few days at Mammoth.
Also would appreciate your input on sizing – I’m 5′-2″/125 lbs and size 7 shoe.
Thanks!
Hi Rachel
Firstly, in terms of sizing, I would put you on around a 144 as your “standard all-mountain length”. As a beginner/intermediate rider taking off a little bit of size isn’t a bad idea, so something in that 141-143 range, given your not a complete beginner, would be a good bet, IMO. So size-wise, the 141 Paradise and 142 Infinity fit nicely, IMO, and are a good width for your boot size as well.
Between those 2, I would say the Infinity is the slightly easier ride, so I’d be leaning towards that. And really anything on that intermediate list with a 4/10 flex is going to be a little easier to manage than the slightly stiffer options.
Hi Nate, I currently have a 2012 Rossignol Myth 149cm that I bought back in 2016 (Clearance Board at The-House).
I’m 5’7 and about 126 lbs.
Until this year, I’ve only been riding once or twice a year, hence not improving much past falling leaf. This year I bought a 2022-2023 Season Pass lift ticket to a nearby mountain (East Coast). My husband and son got a season pass too. I was looking at your top 10 list and I’m very much considering purchasing the Nitro Lectra. I know you suggest taking off a few centimeters for beginners. I really want to master turning this year. Should I get the 146cm? or 142cm? Also they have the 2022 Lectra model available as well. It is a little cheaper. What is your recommendation?
Also my son is a new beginner snowboarder. He’s a growing 5’7″ 15 year old. What size board should we start him on? Thank you for the snowboard wisdom!
Hi Kelly
Thanks for your message.
As far as I know the 2022 and 2023 Lectras are basically the same, apart from the graphics, so if you can the 2022 cheaper and in the best size, then I’d go for that.
Size-wise, I would put your “standard all-mountain size” at around 147. As a more beginner rider, sizing down from that is a good idea, but given you’re used to riding a 149, I think the 146 will be your best bet – it’s not sizing down much, but in this case I think you’ll be good. But if you could also let me know your boot size to confirm (a. to make sure it’s wide enough, but also if it’s a little too wide, then sizing down a bit more is a good idea).
For your son, if you could also let me know his weight. Sizing is more about weight than height (though I like to take both into account) and his boot (or shoe) size too would be great.
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate! My boot size is a women’s 6.5. Although I have Vans Boots currently in a women’s size 7 and they fit great!
My son is 5’7″ and 115 lbs – Boot Size 9
-Kelly
Hi Kelly
Yeah, I would still go 146 for the Lectra.
For your son, I would say a good size is around 144 – you could go a little smaller if you wanted to, as a beginner, but if you wanted to balance that with the fact he’s still growing – and so he doesn’t outgrow the board too quickly, then you could stick with something around that 144.
Nate! Thank you so much!!
Kelly
You’re very welcome Kelly. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
Thank you for all the reviews you have put out, they have really helped ease the snowboard buying process. After about 4 or 5 years of renting I am finally ready to buy a board. I consider myself to be a beginner to intermediate level rider and am looking for an all mountain board that will last. I was looking at getting the arbor ethos board, vans encore pro boots, and am having trouble choosing what bindings to get. I was looking at the union trilogy but realized that they are too stiff/advanced. I also looked at the union rosa but am afraid that I will outgrow them too quickly as I continue to progress since they are such a loose binding. Do you have any input on the bindings/set up as a whole? I mostly ride in Big Bear and go out about 5-10 times a year. Also, would a 144 cm board work for me as I am about 115 lbs and 5’2” and still growing. I want this set up to last as long as possible and am afraid that it is too much of a beginner set up that I will outgrow it too quickly. Any input would be greatly appreciated, thank you for your time.
Hi Amy
Given you’ve been riding a few years and in on the cuff of intermediate level, I would probably step up the board a little bit, particularly if you want it to last you a long time. I would instead look at our intermediate list. Flex-wise, I think something in that 4/10 to 5/10 flex range is your best bet.
The Encore Pro are a good bet for your boots, IMO, they are just right for your level, assuming they fit your feet well. If they do, then I think you’re good to go with them.
For the bindings, it would depend on the board you ultimately decide on, but again, I would be looking to go at least 4/10 flex and up to 6/10 flex max. So I agree with with the Rosa being a little too soft and the Trilogy being a little too stiff. I think the Ultra would be a really good option, but the Legacy would also work, if you’re looking at Union. Plenty of other options, if you were to look at other brands too. Some to consider in the following:
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Don’t be too concerned with the names of those lists, just had to give them names – but check out the specs, score breakdowns etc.
Happy to bounce some ideas off if you have a couple you like the look of (in terms of boards and bindings) and can’t decide between them – and size-wise happy to give a sizing opinion for specific boards, if you were able to narrow down to 2-3 boards. Generally speaking I would put your “standard all-mountain” length at around 142 – as someone closer to the beginner end of the spectrum I would tend to go a little smaller than that, but if you’re still growing, then something around that might be a good idea, but it’s also helpful to look at the specific board, because there are certain features and specs of boards that can make them better to ride a little longer or a little shorter.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
My friend is a 2nd season rider looking for a new board to learn on. She had the libtech cortado last year and struggled learning on that.
She is looking at the K2 first lite and is currently on medium union juliet bindings and 8 boot size. Would this board be too narrow?
Thanks so much in advance!
Hi Brittany
Thanks for your message.
With 8s she should be good on anything from the 142 size. The 138 would also likely be doable but a little more risky, depending on bindings angles and how bulky her boots are. If you’d like a length recommendation I would be happy to help. Would just need her height, weight and boot size. Also if you could let me know the size of the Cortado she was riding.
Thanks so much! She was on 148 cortado, she’s 5’8, about 140. I think that particular board only came in a 146 and 150?
Also open to any other suggestions for board you may have. Appreciate all your input 🙂
Hi Brittany
I think the first Lite in the 146 would be a good bet. I would put her “standard all-mountain length” at around 150, which assumes a fairly advanced level. Sizing down as a beginner is a good idea. The Cortado is a rather wide board, so given the length and width combo, I think the 148 would have been a little too big for her, which would have contributed to her struggles on it. The 146 First Lite should be a much easier ride.
What’s the between K2 first lite and dreamsicle? Found a pretty good price for the latter on evo outlets. I’m 5’3’’ (160mm) and 150lb, I’m looking for something more nimble and easy to turn so I can progress to darker blues and glades. A bit beyond first turns, but don’t know how to carve yet.
Hi Jun
Thanks for your message.
Main difference is that the Dreamsicle is a little stiffer. But still on the softer side. I think the Dreamsicle would be the best bet for what you’re describing. Still an easy going board and still beginner friendly, but will get you a little further in your progression than the First Lite, IMO. Where you’re at both would work, but I would be leaning Dreamsicle. Another difference is that the Dreamsicle is a little more directional, but for what you’re describing that’s a good thing. And the difference isn’t huge either. I’d be looking at the 146 Dreamsicle at this stage, but if you could also let me know your boot size as well.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Love your site, super informative! I’ve thoroughly been reading, but still haven’t landed on a new set up, so I was hoping you could help me out with a board decision…There’s just so many more options for females now!
About me: 5’3″, 120lb, Sz 7. I haven’t snowboarded in the past 8 years (yikes!) after moving to the East Coast. Excited to have some trips planned this year. My previous board is like 20 years old (hence why i desperately need a new set up) and so much has changed! It was a Ride Fuel 148 (def too big), I’m unsure on the profile, but obviously had a lot of camber!
I’m hoping that it’s somewhat like riding a bike and I’m not starting from zero (my friends feel confident that I won’t). So maybe beginner 4ish? The boards I was looking at are:
– Gnu Chromatic
– Bataleon Push Up
– Bataleon Spirt
I think I ruled out the Ride Compact as the nose looked a bit narrow/pointy. Had also been looking at the Capita Paradise.
For size, thinking 143?? Unless in the case of the Spirt where I think I’d have to do 146 based on Boot Size?
If you have any thoughts on the above, would love to hear it! I’m also planning to get new bindings of course, but know I should probably find the board first so they match up well!?
Thank you so much!
Jamie
Hi Jamie
Thanks for your message.
Yeah definitely a good idea to decide on the board first and then look at bindings to match it.
In terms of sizing I would put your “standard all-mountain” length at around 144. I probably wouldn’t go longer than that if you’re about at that beginner 4. For a complete beginner, it’s a good idea to take off 2-5cm as a rule of thumb, but as a higher end beginner who has experience already, you can probably go up to that length or a couple of cms below. But I’d try not to go longer.
With 7s, I think you’d be fine on the 143 Spirit width-wise, so no need to go up to the 146 with that one, IMO. However, it is a very soft board and you might find it feels a bit too soft as you progress – and you’ll likely progress quite quickly given you do have experience already. It’s usually pretty quick to get back into it. Unless you’re really keen on creative, playful freestyle riding and don’t ever see yourself riding that fast, I wouldn’t go as soft as that.
The Chromatic and Push Up are still quite soft, but better bets, IMO. And the 143 good sizes.
The Paradise is a little stiffer but not necessarily too stiff, given you’re a higher end beginner, who’ll likely progress beyond that fairly quickly. Again, the 143 would be your best bet. If you think you’ll want to be riding a bit faster, then something like the Paradise will give you a bit more stability – whilst still being a pretty easy ride. Also, since you’re on the beginner/intermediate cusp, you could also check out our intermediate list for more options.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for taking the time!! Super helpful!
I decided to go with Bataleon, as I’m super interested in the 3BT Tech! And for which one – the Push Up. However, also reading a lot of good things about the Feelbetter. Do you think that’s too beginner? I like that the camber is mellower, but it’s also softer, and I didn’t want to go too soft. I definitely won’t be charging down the mountain in any case!
For bindings – would love your thoughts on a good match. I was looking at your reviews and the Union Legacy caught my eye – but wasn’t sure if that was too stiff for these boards? Any thoughts on the lower end models – Juliet or Rosa? Or of course any other brands too =)
Thanks again!!
Jamie
Hi Jamie
I believe the Push Up and Feelbetter both have Bataleon’s “medium” camber. But yeah the Feelbetter does look to be a little softer – but still not as soft as the Spirit, so it’s doable. But I don’t think the Push Up will be too difficult to ride or anything. The 3BT makes Bataleon boards pretty catch-free, even when stiffer or with more camber, so I think you’d be good with either, but the Feelbetter is certainly suitable, IMO, so that’s an option, for sure.
For bindings, the Legacy would match with the Push Up, but it’s the stiffest end of the range I’d put on the Push Up. I think it would be a bit too stiff for the Feelbetter. The Juliet would work for either. The Rosa would work for both as well. Only question mark there is whether it’s something you may end up wanting to upgrade from down the line, especially if you were to get a stiffer board in a few years. If you don’t think you will, then they will do the job. If you think there’s a chance you go stiffer with your board down the line and don’t want to have to change your bindings, then they may be a bit too soft.
The Union Women’s Ultra would also be a good match for those boards and at a 5/10 flex would be a good bet for both working now and future proofing. They are a little more costly than those other options though. Others around that 5/10 flex that would work well, IMO, are the Burton Scribe, Flux GS, Salomon Mirage or Burton Escapade (though they are even more pricey than the Union Ultra).
Hi Nate!
Keep searching about Bataleon boards, wrote to Bataleon crew also.
And think that Push up will be too much for beginner (maybe it more like a board for me).
So, there aren`t a lot of options remains.
Bataleon Spirit 146
Bataleon Feelbetter 146
And what can you say about Rome Royal? In 144 it has 240mm waist and in 147 – 242mm waist. Can we concider this board too and in which size?
Thanks 🙂
Hi Elena
I think the Royal would work well – I’d be looking at the 144. And it looks like the 144 actually has a 244mm waist, so should be plenty wide enough, IMO.
Thank you so much for this article and the updates! My daughter was able to go snowboarding with a friend last year and loved it. She is hoping to take a class through her college this winter and wants her own gear. I’ve offered to get some for birthday/Christmas gifts, but have no clue where to start. She’s a beginner and fell A LOT last year 😂 She’s 115lbs and 5’3″. She was looking at the Arbor Poparazzi Rocker, 141, but now I’m wondering if we need to look at something else? Thanks again for the great recommendations!
Hi Melissa
Thanks for your message.
I think the Poparazzi 141 would be doable. It’s what I consider to be very good for a highend beginner looking to progress. It’s not on this list, but it’s still a suitable beginner board. A slightly steeper learning curve than some on this list, but still very doable – and particularly if she’s learning reasonably fast, I think it would be fine. If you want the easiest possible, and she likes Arbor – then the Foundation is the best bet. Size-wise, I would put your daughter on a round a 143 as her “standard” size, but that assumes a relatively advanced level. A good idea to err a bit smaller as a beginner – so I think 141 works. But if you could also let me know her boot size (or shoe size if you’re not sure of her boot size) – just to make sure the width is OK.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Big thanks for the response and recommendations!
And you have a nice new logo on the site! 🙂
Unfortunately, I didn’t find in our shops K2 Dreamsicle, Yes Emoticon and Rossi Soulside (only 20-21 season boards). But we will consider Ride Compact and Bataleon Spirit, fortunately they are in stock in 146 🙂
Also would like to ask your opinion for how long she could ride the beginner board? Hope to get a board she can progress on without changing it next season but which don’t punish for every mistake. Wouldn’t Spirit, for example, be too wobbly for mountain riding?
May we add options like Bataleon Feelbetter 146 (stiffness 3, waist 240), Push Up in 146 (stiffness 4, waist 240), Nidecker Ora in 147 (stiffness 4-5, waist 242)? Or they will be to much for begining?
And what can you say about using my friend’s Burton Stylus in 142 (241 waist) for the start of the season to have lessons? (I understand, it may be too short, but?) 🙂
Hi Elena
Firstly the Stylus is a great option as a beginner board. It is a little on the small side for her, but for the first couple of days it would be fine. But in terms of buying something like that I think it would be too small and she would outgrow it too quickly.
You could certainly look at something like the Feelbetter and Pushup 146s. Just note that it will be a slightly steeper learning curve. They have more camber than the Spirit. They’re still nothing too stiff or anything, so they should be fine. Especially if she gets out on the Stylus 142 for a bit first to build her confidence. The Ora is maybe a step too far though. But the Nidecker Elle would be a good option.
How long you want to stay on a beginner board is a tough one to predict. There are so many factors. Depends on how fast she was to progress – and this can in turn depend on how many days in a season she rides (e.g. if she did a 50 day season, then it would probably only last one season, but if she’s doing 5 days per season, then could get 2-3 season’s out of it). Can depend on how risk averse she is as well – if she wants to ride fast or wants to just cruise – if it’s the latter, then a beginner board would last a lot longer. But yeah, hard to say for sure.
Hi Nate!
Thanks for your detailed response.
Will start this season lessons with Stylus and then watch how she progress. Compare to horse riding (she go into jumping competition lessons, so risky enough)
🙂 I think she will overcome very beginner stage fast. But we need to buy bindings, I found some Now Vetta in M size for reasonable price. What do you think? Will they work with already mentioned Bataleon boards?
We will choose between Bataleons, cause sister said that she like the design 🙂
And I will definitely ask you about board once again when the season starts. As for me I don’t see much difference between Feelbetter and Push up (1 point in stiffness and both medium camber) 🤔 but you always so good in explaining even little difference 🙂
Hi Elena
Yes the NOW Vetta would work with any of those Bataleon options, IMO. And yeah, get back in touch when you’re ready to make a decision on the board, would be happy to help you make the final choice then.
Hi Nate!
Thank a lot,
Will be back for your help 🙂
Hi Nate!
Once again thanks a lot for your recommendations and deep knowledge. Now, I’m searching a board for my sister. She is novice rider, 172 cm height, 58 kg weight and have Nitro Flora boots in US9.
Already found some options (with your great article):
Rossignol Myth
Rossignol Gala
Nitro Lectra
Or maybe Bataleon Spirit
And what board size will be better for her. Something between 140-152, or 154?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Elena
Good to hear from you again.
Size-wise for your sister, I would be looking at something around 143-146. I would put her “standard length” at around 147/148, but as a beginner sizing down a little from that is a good idea. All of the boards you’ve mentioned are good for beginners, however with US9s, the width is worth looking at. If she’s going to be riding with an at least some angle on the back binding, then I think she should be good with all of those in that size range, but if she wants the option for a flat back foot (0-3 degree binding angle) then some of those could be pushing it being too narrow width-wise. In that case, I would be leaning Rossignol Soulside (145) or Bataleon Spirit (146). Note that the Gala is now called the Soulside, if you’re looking at 2023 moedls (it’s not exactly the same board as the Gala, but really close and just as beginner suitable). If you think she’ll be riding with some back binding angle, then I think any of the following sizes would work fine:
– Rossignol Myth 144
– Rossignol Gala 146
– Rossignol Soulside 145
– Nitro Lectra 146
– Bataleon Spirit 146
Hi Nate!
Thanks a lot for your answer, you know so much and your advices works 🙂
Managers from our local shop tell something about 154, but I thought is too much for her and you confirmed my thoughts.
Right now we think to get a 21-22 season board, there are some nice discounts 🙂
I don’t think that she will ride (0-3 degree) but she rode a rental boards and I don’t remember the degrees.
But, if she will than we should size up?
And what board will be better? (Aside from Lectra, it’s number 1 in your list!)
I know that Bataleon have some kind of spoon similar to Jones, will it help the novice rider? Or it doesn’t make sense? I tried Jones Dream Catcher and feels like spoon nose makes ride a little easier, but maybe it’s just an illusion 🙂
Thanks a lot!
Hi Elena
Yeah, having spoon tech can make it easier for beginners because it reduces the chances of catching an edge. Any of those options though should be easy to learn on. Rather than sizing up if you think she’ll ride with a 0-3 angle and if you’re worried they’ll be too narrow, I would instead just look for something wider. Still in that length range. If you’d like I can search for some suitable options that are a bit wider. Yeah, 154 way too big for her, IMO. But a lot of people are still stuck on going with height alone as their sole sizing factor – when it’s actually weight that’s more important.
Hi Nate!
That will be a pleasure if you can search some more options 🙂
Big thanks!
So, the 147-148 is her size range for all-mountain when she will become more experienced?
Hi Elena
Yes, something around 147/148 would be a good advanced level all-mountain size for her, IMO.
Some other options with a wider width:
– K2 Dreamsicle 146 (241mm waist)
– Ride Compact 146 (240mm waist)
– Rossignol Meraki 145 (240mm waist)
– YES Emoticon 146 (239mm waist) or 143 (237mm waist)
But the Spirit and Soulside should also be pretty safe width-wise, IMO.
Hello!
First of all, thank you very much for all the articles you have done, they have helped me a lot and it is appreciated that you also publish content for women.
I’m a beginner girl (I’m 1,69 m tall and I weigh 55kg, foot size 40/25.0). I have decided to buy my own equipment because last year I went snowboarding and in my country the rent is very expensive…. I fell in love with this sport so I decided it was worth the investment.
I have the problem of choosing the board. I’m pretty sure I’ll buy the Burton Mint (25.0) boots and the Burton Citizen bindings, I guess should be a size M, right?
I’m not obsessed with Burton, but in my country right now there’s not much in stock.
Then, following the stock line, I was thinking about a Nitro Lectra or the Ride Heartbraker, but it’s impossible to find them in shops. So a guy in a shop recommended me the Roxy Raina 147. I found it rated as a beginner-intermediate as well as intermediate-advanced…
Do you think it would suit me? I’m in the process of learning how to do S turns, I’m not doing them very well, but the heel or toe down turns are fine.
What do you recommend? Is it too much board for my level? The guy told me it was perfect and it would progress but I don’t know if he was just selling it to me….
Hi Anna
Thanks for your message.
That boot and binding combo should work well for you as your first setup – and yes go with M for the Citizens.
The Roxy Raina looks like it would be suitable for a beginner. It’s medium-soft flex and it’s a pretty forgiving, easy camber profile to learn on, so I’ve got no issues with the board itself. But the size, IMO, is too big for your specs. If you could find it in the 143, then I’d say go for it. But the 147 is too big for you, IMO. I would consider your “standard” size to be around 145 – 146 max – but that assumes a relatively advanced level. As a beginner, I would size down from that. So, something in the 141 to 143 range would be your best bet, IMO. If you can find a 143 Raina, I think that’s a good bet, but I wouldn’t go for the 147.
Hope this helps
Hi!
Thank you very much for your reply, how quick! hahaha.
I will visit another store today to find the Nitro Lectra or the Arbor Ethos, I don’t think so but I have to try.
However, about what you say about the size, I have seen that in the Arbor Ethos guide it says that if I take the size 144, I should wear the S bindings? Will my feet be too big for that size of board if I wear the M bindings?
Thank you very much!
Hi Anna
I doubt you’d have trouble width-wise on the Ethos 144. Arbor boards are wider at the inserts than they look just looking at the waist width. Definitely shouldn’t have any issues getting a medium Burton Citizen on there – and very unlikely to have any boot drag issues with that size Burton Mint on the 144 Ethos, IMO.
Hey Nate,
I am looking for a board to get my girlfriend. This will be the first time she’ll be boarding and I want to get something appropriate for her that she can progress on. Right now she’s narrowed it down between the Rossignal Myth and Ride Heartbreaker both in the smallest size 138/139. Seeing that the Rossignal Myth isn’t on this list, the Heartbreaker may be the better choice for her. Would love to know your thoughts between the two. Thanks.
Hi Nicky
Thanks for your message.
The Myth is on this list (see number 7). Either one would be a great first board, IMO. Size-wise, would depend on her specs, but it sounds like you’ve done the research on sizing already?
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I was hoping you could help me decide on a board. I am a complete beginner that has gone only a few times over the last few years, but want to buy my own setup for next season as I’m excited and dedicated to learn. I have a few boards I am interested in and was hoping you can provide some insight/guidance on which board and what size may be the best for me to purchase.
5’3 at 113lbs
DC Lotus Boots in 6.5
Location- Mostly at Big Bear/Summit and Mammoth/Tahoe
K2 Dreamsicle
K2 Lime Lite
Ride Heartbreaker
Salomon Lotus
YES Emoticon
They all have different profiles which make it difficult for me to really know which board would be good for a beginner like me.
Thank you!
Hi Emi
Thank for your message.
Whilst they all have slightly different camber profiles, they’re all beginner suitable, IMO. Something like the Lime Lite and Emoticon are the best bets, if you’re looking to have something that can take you further into your progression, IMO. The other more pure beginner – which isn’t a bad thing, if you’re looking for really fast progression and happy to upgrade fairly quickly. But if you wanted that something you could ride for longer without outgrowing it, then I’d be looking either Emoticon or Lime Lite.
Size-wise, I’d say your “standard all-mountain” size is around a 143, but that’s assuming a relatively advanced level, so you’d want to size down a little from there. 138-141 would be a good range to look at. Which makes the smallest Emoticon (143) on the big side for you, IMO. Doable, but not ideal. The Lime Lite in the 138 would be on the smallest end of that scale, but would be what I’d leaning or you could stretch to the 142 Lime Lite.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Thank you for your quick response. I couldn’t find the lime lite in the size you suggested as it’s out of stock and the Emoticon at 143 may be too big for me at this stage. So far I was only able to find sizes for the following:
K2 Dreamsicle (rocker-flat-rocker) 138
Ride Heartbreaker (rocker-camber-rocker) 139
Salomon Lotus (flat-camber-flat) 138
I was told by friends to stay away from anything with rocker as it’ll teach me “bad habits” and I’ll have to relearn again if I ever get more advanced camber boards in the future. Which has created some doubt in my mind but everywhere I’ve read said that having rocker in the board will help with learning. What are your thoughts on this and how would it apply to the boards I’ve narrowed it down to?
Another thing I was looking at was the Union Legacy Bindings– I found a size small but since I have a 6.5 boot, I am not sure if I should grab these or find ones in medium.
Again, thank you. It’s been incredibly helpful!
Hi Emi
I think it’s a bad idea going for something that’s full camber to start out with. It will teach you to ride camber for sure, but you’re not likely to have any fun doing it – and your progress is likely to be slow – and if you’re catching an edge all the time, you’re likely to lose confidence, so I wouldn’t recommend it. But having some camber in the profile can be a good idea, so you do get used to that camber feeling, but having rocker in there will make the experience much better, IMO. Flat to rocker is still very good to learn on, in terms of quick progression – and a good way to get started and build confidence before moving on to a more technical board – you don’t have to relearn riding for a camber board, you just have to build upon what you’ve learned. It’s like a kid learning to ride a bike – you start out on a balance bike, where you learn about balancing and steering, then you move to a pedal bike, but not yet to a bike with gears, so you can learn to pedal, whilst also balancing and steering and then once you can do all that at once, you move to gears, where you learn to change gears whilst doing everything else. Not a perfect analogy, but point being, that you don’t have to relearn how to balance and steer, when you also include pedaling or changing gears.
But if you’re worried about not having any camber, then a hybrid camber (rocker/camber/rocker) or hybrid rocker (camber/rocker/camber) is a good way to go. The Lotus, whilst not having any rocker per se, they add a “bite free bevel” as they call it, which reduces the chance of catching edges. So, if you did want to make sure to have some camber, then the Heartbreaker and Lotus of those options would be your best bet.
Hey Nate!
I actually found a used 2022 Ride Heartbreaker 139 for 200 which is a steal! I am most likely thinking of picking up this board since the price looks good. I know you mentioned that sizes between 138-141 would be good for me, but the sizing chart for the 139 shows weight from 60-100lbs. Would this size still be okay for me?
Hi Emi
Yeah, I wouldn’t worry too much about being outside those weight recommendations – the 139 would be a great size for you, IMO. It’s something you will want to size up from at some point. But it’s also a board you’ll want to upgrade from at some point as well, so I would go with that size.
Oh and in my last reply, I forgot to comment on the Union Legacy. I think small would work fine with DC 6.5s, but the medium would also work as well. My women’s gear tester Jade, wears 6.5s and Medium Union bindings fit her fine. However, the Legacy might be a bit stiff for right now – as a beginner – and a bit stiff for the Heartbreaker as well. Ideally, I would go with slightly softer bindings.
Thanks Nate for such a detailed response! That’s a great analogy and makes a ton of sense.
I ended up not buying the used Heartbreaker—the condition wasn’t all too great. But I was able to find your initial suggestion for the K2 Lime Lite in 138 at a local shop and picked one up today! I know you said the Rosa legacy are too stiff for the Heartbreaker, but what about the lime lite? I also saw that there were Union Rosa bindings which are supposedly softer—would this be better?
Hi Emi
Awesome you were able to find the Lime Lite. The Rosa are probably the better match – and more beginner suitable. But the Legacy are a little more doable with the Lime Lite than the Heartbreaker. But I would be leaning Rosa in this case. There’s also the Juliet than Union do, if you wanted to go stiffer than the Rosa, but not quite Legacy.
Thanks so much for this super informative article. I’ve been shopping for boards and as a petite woman, it’s been a challenge. I’m 4’11” and around 95 lbs. I’ve been primarily taking lessons and learning on a rental board that’s 130cm. I did use a 136 during one of my lessons, but I found it a bit heavier and trickier to manage. It could also be because the rental boards are quite stiff (probably around 7/10 flex) and heavy.
Most women’s boards start at 138-140, and I wonder if that’s a bit too long for me as a beginner. I only found a few boards for women that start at smaller sizes and I’ve been looking at:
– GNU Gloss (comes in 130 and 136)
– Salomon LOTUS (135+)
– Ride Twinpig (136+)
Out of these, I’m highly considering the GNU Gloss but I’m uncertain whether to go 130 or 136 based on my experience with the rentals. It is a lot softer than the rentals so I don’t know if that makes a difference in the length I could manage. 130 does seem a bit small especially after I advance a bit but I wonder if 136 would be too much at this point. Would love to hear your thoughts.
Hi Clarice
Thanks for your message.
I think you should be fine on the 136 GNU Gloss. It is a very forgiving board – and will be much lighter than rental boards. It is a size that’s probably a little too big as a beginner, and ideally go a bit smaller, but 130 I think is a bit small and you would likely grow out of it very quickly. The Salomon Lotus in 135 could work too. The Twinpig is a wider board – and the width and length combination of that one makes it too big, IMO. And it’s a more advanced board as well.
If you could also let me know your boot size to confirm (also very important for sizing), but I suspect the Gloss will be the best option as it’s likely the best width for you. And therefore the best combination of width and length.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! I’m hoping you can help me pick the right snowboard. I’m a beginner who is back to Level 2 from Level 4 after some years off the mountain to start a family. My old secondhand Burton Feather 139 is no longer appropriate because of weight gain, though I’m in reasonably good shape. I can afford to buy a setup that suits me. I tend to go later in the season to North Tahoe when prices come down a bit, so something good in icy groomers would be ideal. No interest in the park, I just like going down the mountain.
I’m 46 years old, 5’2”, 130 lbs in pajamas, size 7.5 shoes. I was thinking of a Gnu Chromatic 143 with Union Rosa bindings. Or is that too advanced and I should focus on a more purely beginner board? Any recommendations? Many thanks for this great resource.
Hi Kate
Thanks for your message.
The Chromatic is a very good option for beginners, IMO, hence being on this list – so not too advanced at all, IMO. I think that’s a good size and would suit what you’re describing well. And the Union Rosa are a good match too, IMO. I think the only thing to consider is that the Chromatic is looser feeling. This does make it really easy to turn on – you’ve got this kind of pivot point between your feet that makes turn initiations really easy. This can make things a little squirrelly when riding faster though – and can be more challenging coming off the lift, until you get used to the feel. If all that sounds fine, then I’d say go for it. If you think you’d prefer a less loose feel, but still really good in icy conditions, then the YES Emoticon 143 would be a great alternative.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you, that does help! A lot!
You’re very welcome Kate. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
I stumbled upon your site while I was searching for a new board and thought I would throw my hat in the ring for a board recommendation. I just started snowboarding this year and am a level-4ish beginner based on your chart. I have been renting a (very) old model of a 142cm Head True and that has been working ok for me (though it has an aesthetic that screams teenage boy from 2002 not 37 year old lady).
I am 5′ 4 and usually weigh between 138-142 lbs – size 7 shoe. I will mostly be on piste but might check out the park. I would like something that can come with me at least through my intermediate progression and can handle hard snow/ice (yay East Coast!). I was looking at the Yes Emoticon and was thinking it would be the perfect board but saw a couple of reviews with folks noting some quality issues (which is a concern but they do have a lifetime warranty). I was also looking at the Arbor Poparazzi and maybe the Salomon Lotus. I am open to other suggestions and would love to hear your thoughts on sizing. For example the Yes Emoticon chart suggests I would be fine on either the 146, 149 or 152 but was thinking the 146 would be best for me. Thanks in advance!
Cheers,
JT
Hi JT
Thanks for your message.
My wife has an old 2016 YES Emoticon and has held up really well. That said, she doesn’t only ride a handful of days a year, but it’s gone through 5 seasons (roughly 20 days I’d say) of work without showing any major signs or wear and tear yet. But beyond that I couldn’t say how it will hold up. Note that she doesn’t ride the park. It would certainly suit what you’re describing, IMO.
The Poparazzi Rocker would also work for sure. Possibly even get away with the Poparazzi camber (Arbor’s camber is a little more friendly than traditional camber) – but it would be more of a stretch. The Lotus too, but my biggest hesitation would be if it ends up being something that you would need to upgrade from sooner than you would with the Emoticon or Poparazzi.
Size-wise, I would put your “standard all-mountain” size at around 148. As a level 4 beginner and if you’re looking to ride in the park as well, I would come down a bit from that, so for the Emoticon, I would be looking at the 146. For the Poparazzi Rocker, it’s a weigh up between the 144 and 147. If you saw yourself spending a lot of time in the park, then 144, otherwise I’d probably be erring 147.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks! Your definitely helps as I think through what feels like a large number of choices. I really appreciate you taking the time to respond so thoroughly. Now to try to figure out bindings…
Hi Jessica.
For bindings I would be looking at something around 4/10 flex for those boards. Something like the Union Milan, Salomon Nova or K2 Meridian would be good bets.
Thank you, again. Just to complicate matters, I am now looking at a few other boards thanks to my local shop not being a dealer for either of those brands (though I know that can find them easily on the web). Do you have any thoughts on the Rossignol Airis (which replaced the Frenemy – though there are still some Frenemys in the world ) and any of the Jones board offerings? I saw in your review that the Dream Catcher is hard to skid around corners (but not impossible), is that a deal breaker for my level of progression?
Hi Jessica
I think the Airis (or Frenemy, if you found one of those – they’re not identical but very similar) would work well for your level and what you’re describing. The Dream Catcher, IMO, might be stretching things a little too far. Doable, but if you had the choice between that and the Airis/Frenemy, I’d go Airis/Frenemy.
The Jones Twin Sister also doable, but again, it’s a little bit more of a step up.
Went with the Airis and the Nova Bindings. Not sure when I’ll be able to get out but will let you know how it goes!
Hi Jessica
Thanks for the update. Would be awesome to hear how you get on, when you do get a chance to get them out on snow.
Hi Nate,
I love this site, and visit it often these days!
I’m looking to buy me a new board.
I’m 5ft6, 110lb, with boot size 6.5 and I own a Burton feather 153 from 2007. I think it was a bit too big for me, cause i’m still struggling with one of my turns.
After a 12 year break I’ve planned a holiday in France next month.
I’ll definitely go for a smaller board, and I really like the yes emoticons, but that is not a definite choice.
Witch size/board would you recommend?
Looking forward to your opinion.
Anika
Hi Anika
Thanks for your message.
I agree that 153 is too big for you – by quite a lot!
The Emoticon would be a good choice, IMO, for what you’re describing. Size-wise, I would go for the 143. I wouldn’t go longer than 143 for your specs, so if you can’t find that size, we can look at some alternative options.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Your website is so comprehensive and helpful! Wanted to run a board choice by you. I’m a beginner (Level 3, according to your article), and wanted to buy the Nitro Lectra in 142.
I’m 5’3,” 130lb, with a size 6 Women’s boot (23 cm foot).
Goal is all-mountain, as I don’t know what I love best yet.
Thank you!
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for your message.
I think the Lectra would be a great choice for what you’re describing, and the 142 is just right for you, IMO. I’d put you roughly on a 146 as your “standard all-mountain” size, but as a beginner a good rule of thumb is to take off 3-5cm, so that puts the 142 right in that range.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for your help!
A quick question on bindings: The salesperson at the shop suggested I pair my smallish boots (Burton Mint Boa’s Size 6) with the Nitro Mini Chargers. I don’t mind using youth equipment as it’s generally cheaper, but do you have any concerns with that recommendation?
I feel like the flex lines up with the boots and board, but perhaps it’s not rated for an adult’s weight (despite having small feet).
Hi Jennifer
I don’t have any real experience with youth/kids bindings (apart from my kid’s bindings, but we got him those when he was 4, so that’s not relevant!). So I couldn’t say for sure. I’d be a little weary of it, because of the flex. Whilst as a beginner you do want to go with softer flexing stuff (like the Lectra and Mint) but just not sure how soft something like the Nitro Mini would feel. And it’s not like 6s are ultra small or anything. For Burton bindings for example, you could even go into their medium bindings. For Union, as another example, you’d be on the small, but I’ve known women with 6.5 boots happily riding Union Medium bindings. So I don’t feel like your boot size is so small that you have to go with youth/kids sizes. Every brand that I know of (apart from maybe Rome) have sizing that accommodates for 6 and usually down to at least 5.
Thank you Nate, that is extremely helpful. Hope you’re enjoying the season so far.
You’re very welcome Jennifer. My season is going well – hope yours is too!
Hey!
All of this information is so helpful so thank you! I have a quick question – I am getting back into snowboarding with my kids – I used to snowboard in my teens and 20s but it has been a good 15 years since I have been. I am looking to get maybe the K2 First Lite – looks to be one of the only boards in stock anywhere on this list. What size should I be going with? I am 5’6”. Around 160 lbs. should I be going with the 150? Or should I be going shorter? Would the 146 be too short? All the lists based on my weight say even longer than that but would love your opinion!
Hi Laura
Thanks for your message.
I would put you at around a 152 as your “standard all-mountain” length, which assumes a relatively advanced level. If you feel you’ll be starting out more beginner, then going shorter than that makes sense. Since you’ve had some experience in the past, I don’t think you’ll have to size down too much, so I think the 150 would be your best bet in the First Lite. But if you could also let me know your boot size, that would help. Boot size also important for sizing.
Given that you may get up to a more intermediate level fairly quickly because of your past experience, you could also look at this list – but if you’re wanting a super easy re-introduction into snowboarding, the First Lite would work well, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
I want to say this list has been the most helpful for information on boards for beginners. I’m currently riding a Morrow 153, (bought it on sale a couple years ago to give snowboarding a try) I finally realized I need something with some flex. I ride maybe a handful of times a year in Minnesota. I still hesitate heel to toe turns but I can rock the toe to heel. I’m 153/158lbs, 5’9”. I wear size 10 Burton Mint boots with Burton L bindings. Could you help me narrow it down to a few board choices.
Thank you!
Hi Sally
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I would look to reduce the length a little bit. I would say something around 150/151 would be a good length for you as a more advanced rider, but as a beginner, even if not a complete beginner I would be looking at something around 147-149. With 10s in your boots, we can’t go too narrow. Some good beginner board options in that size range, that will be wide enough:
– Burton Stylus: 147 (243mm waist)
– Burton Yeahsayer (flat top or flying v): 148 (244mm waist)
– Lib Tech Glider 147 (243mm waist)
– Salomon Wonder 148 (243mm waist) – this one is a little bit more advanced but still doable for a higher end beginner
– K2 Dreamsicle 149 (242mm waist)
– Salomon Oh Yeah 147 (242mm waist)
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Love your site. Thank you for all the resources! I’d love to get your advice on what is the best board to buy for the fastest progression. My goal is to master controlling my turns at higher speeds without catching edge. Price is no issue. We’ve been skiing SoCal, Colorado, and Whistler- powder and a mixture of manmade so a tiny bit icy by the afternoon then we call it quits. I am 5’2”, 105lbs, 5.5 shoe size.
I can link my turns ok but it’s ugly at this point lol, ride switch, and would like to do jumps eventually in the park. My husband and son ski so I would like a board that is also fast on the mountain. I have gone 3x this season – 6 days total now, but I do have a background in surfing and skateboarding which I am consciously working to break bad habits that are transferring to snowboarding. Any tips regarding this would be appreciated too lol
The first demo was a K2 Dreamsicle 149. Felt like a boat so they swapped me to a Gnu B Nice 139 and it made a huge difference in being able to turn. The second trip I was on a Nidecker 140 – shortest they had. Felt heavy and didn’t see much progression on my turns. This current trip I had a Burton Talent Scout 138 – was catching edge a bit more, but loved the length and made me wonder about going even shorter. Tomorrow I try out a Lib Tech Glider 139. Does a light board for going fast down the mountain and playing in the park exist in a 135-138cm? I feel more comfortable on a lighter/shorter board probably from my experience surfing and skateboarding.
Also, what board size do you recommend at advanced level for the future? Length, profile, max width
Lastly, I just bought the Burton Escapade Step On bindings in small. All step on shoes come in 5,6,6.5… I wear a 5.5 in Burton. Do I get a 5 or 6? 6 is too big and 5 is ok unless I fall and my toes get jammed lol Is there a way to use inserts or something to eliminate the toe gap and heel lift or fall less and get the 5 :D?
Thanks soooooo much and happiest of new years to you!!
Hi Virginia
Thanks for your message.
Whoever put you on a 149 must’ve been on another planet! Glad they put you on a shorter board the next time.
Size-wise, I would say something around a 139/140 would be a good bet as an advanced rider as your “standard all-mountain size”. As a beginner I would size down a little from that. Something in the 135-138 range is a good bet. Also to note that a lot of boards, even around that 139/140 size would be on the wide side for your boots, so sizing down because of that is also a good idea, depending on the board.
I think you’d probably like:
– GNU Gloss 136 (226mm waist width)
Could also look at the Arbor Poparazzi Rocker or Ethos. Both 138 (231mm waist) – not quite as good a size, but would definitely work.
The 139 Glider could certainly work too. See how you feel on that one. It’s nice and narrow (226mm waist) and the length is doable for you.
The B Nice 139 (226mm waist), which you’ve already ridden by the sounds of it would also work.
Shame that Burton doesn’t do 5.5 in their Step Ons. If the 6 is too big, there’s not a lot you could do. Wear 2 pairs of socks (though generally I wouldn’t recommend it. You could get some j bars to stick in to try to help with heel hold too. Maybe there are inserts that would help their fit too, but I’m not sure. I think I would be leaning going with the 5s, if you can stomach it. You could maybe try heat molding them with toe caps on to see if it can give you a little more toe space.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
You are the best! Just placed an order for the Burton Ritual Step On size 5 so thank you!!
I will try and demo more boards in the ranges you recommended. I liked the Talent Scout and it felt so much lighter than the Glider even though it was only 1cm different. What boards do you recommend that are light or what word can I search to find the lightest constructed boards?
Also, I read all of your articles on camber styles and options and am still trying to figure out which I prefer. I know I like speed down the mountain with the skiers in my family and also want to be able to do jumps, rails, park. The 138 Talent Scout is sintered full camber and it felt controlled except I would slightly catch an edge going from toe side to heel side doing my S turns whereas heel to toe there is no issue. I am goofy footed so I figured it is due to technique. I tried the 139 Glider on a powder day and it felt loose and more challenging for me to edge in toe side even though the online description says the Glider is a beginner board and the Talent Scout is an intermediate board. The Glider is mild rocker on the ends and cambered in the middle. What camber profile do you recommend for fast progression on short radius turns edge to edge? Where it looks like a pendulum- the top half of the body is stable and just the lower legs swing effortlessly toe to heel.
Super appreciate your help! Thank you!!!
Hi Virginia
I’d say typically a board with rocker between the feet would be something that would help you turn in the style you’re describing. But you can certainly ride that way with any camber profile. The Glider is a hybrid rocker though (rocker between the feet, subtle camber underfoot and towards the tip and tail). But it is so rocker dominant, that it feels more like a “continuous rocker”. So definitely no surprise that you found it loose. That BTX profile is always loose feeling – and a softer flex makes it even more so. So you kind of had opposite ends of the spectrum with the Glider being practically all rocker and the Talent Scout all camber.
Given your experience with them, I think you prefer the feel of camber over rocker (if I have this correct). That’s not to say to go full camber necessarily, but I think a hybrid camber would work well – camber between the feet and under the feet with rocker towards tip and tail. The rocker in the tip and tail just helps to mellow things out and make the board less catchy and helps with float in powder – but overall the feel is close to that of a full camber board.
That said, also take into account that there is a spectrum – i.e. not all hybrid rocker or hybrid camber are the same. Some hybrid rockers are quite camber dominant (like C3 camber from GNU/Lib Tech, which behaves more like camber, even though there is some subtle rocker between the feet) and others (like the Glider) are more rocker dominant. Something like the Gloss has more camber than the Glider, but it’s still more rocker than it is camber. The B nice is BTX (i.e. rocker dominant) like the Glider.
The other thing with the Talent Scout is that it’s also quite stiff, which typically isn’t great for a beginner. But it sounds like you handled it fairly well. It’s also on the wider side for your boot size, but again, it sounds like you liked it regardless. But if you wanted to go with something that was more hybrid rocker and a little softer flexing to make it more forgiving and beginner friendly, you could look at:
– K2 Dreamsicle 138 (237mm waist) – again a little wide – and you rode the 149, but the 138 would be a completely different story. K2 boards I’ve weighed don’t tend to be super light, and it sounds like you’re looking for something light. One thing to also note about light – some boards are light on the scales but don’t feel as light on the snow – and visa versa – some aren’t all that light on the scales but feel lighter on snow. But more on light boards below
– K2 Lime Lite 138 (236mm waist)
– Ride Compact 138 (236mm waist) – like K2 boards, the Ride’s I’ve weighted haven’t been super light, but I haven’t weighed that many of them
– Rossignol Myth 139 (234mm waist)
– Salomon Lotus 135 (233mm waist) – or there’s also a 138 (235mm waist) – although there isn’t any real rocker tip and tail – it’s flat between the feet, camber underfoot and then flat again to tip and tail
– Salomon Gypsy 138 (238mm waist) – getting on the wide side for you, and not a beginner board – more intermediate, but less advanced than the Talent Scout, so I’d say it would be fine for you, based on your experience
– Capita Paradise 139 (229mm waist) – again not a strictly beginner board, but I think you’d be fine with it.
In terms of being light, Capita boards tend to be lightest that I weigh – so that, in addition to the narrower waist of the Paradise, make it appealing. Salomon boards also tend to be light. Burton’s higher end boards tend to be light – but there’s quite a bit of variance between their lower end and higher end. I haven’t weighed the Talent Scout, but I imagine it’s one of their lighter boards.
For reference, I weighed the Paradise 149 at 2340g (5lbs, 2oz), which translates to 15.92g/cm, which is a good bit lower than the 17.14g/kg average of all the women’s boards I’ve weighed (over a small sample of 21 different boards).
I haven’t weighed any Salomon boards personally, but they often publish the weight of their boards. I couldn’t find any recent stats, but looking back at 2018 models, looks like the Gypsy 147 came in at around 2360g – roughly 16.05g/cm, so nice and light (I picked the 147 as the closest equivalent of the 149 Paradise as a comparison. The Lotus a similar 16.09g/cm.
Hi again Nate!
I’ve been demo’ing boards and wanted to wait until I tried more before reaching out again lol the last time we messaged I had 6 days under my belt and now it is currently 16 days.
I decided to go shorter to see what my max and min in length are doing flat ground tricks and carving down the mountain. I demoed a 130 Arbor Rocker Rental, 135 Burton Kilroy, 140 Burton Yeasayer Flying V, 120 Nidecker Rocker Rental, 135 Salomon Lotus, and 140 Capita Birds of a Feather in addition to the previous 149 LOL!! K2 Dreamsicle, 139 GNU B Nice, 140 Nidecker Rocker Rental, 138 Burton Talent Scout, and 139 LibTech Glider.
After those demos, I realize that I prefer true twin vs directional twin because I like to ride switch. Ideally asymmetrical because of the natural way it feels transitioning to a turn. I really liked riding smaller on the 120 Nidecker because of the maneuverability for 180s, flat ground tricks, and turning on a dime. Going medium/fast down on the 120 was a bit bumpy but fine as long as I got low so I wouldn’t fly off the mountain lol On the flip side, I love the smoothness riding fast down the mountain on the Talent Scout. What I learned the hard way on full camber or stiff camber hybrid boards is you need to be “on” and your mind actively engaged the entire ride otherwise riding those boards the right way – committing to the turns and speed- when you catch an edge, the fall is brutal lol It had me looking into chest and knee pads haha! The ride was so smooth it was worth it though. Then, enter the Yeasayer Flying V! The profile was such a new feeling and incredible as it seemed impossible that day for me to catch an edge and super fun to spin around! That would be my perfect board if they added Magnetraction and made it available in 120-130 size. I also realized I can ride way smaller on a rocker board as long as my weight falls within the manufacture range. I’m not muscular enough to torque the board and break it like the average adult 🙂
I was able to find junior sized boards to fit my weight, boot size, and level. The quality is comparable to adult boards and the price reflects that on their higher end youth models (Capita, GNU, LibTech, Jones).
These are the boards that are available in my height, weight, and boot size with the style of riding I enjoy. Men totally have the advantage of choice in this industry:) I am still trying to narrow down my quiver:
ALL MOUNTAIN
138 Burton Talent Scout
PARK
125 GNU Recess (kids) or
130 GNU Young Money (youth) or
130 GNU Gloss
and
140 Burton Flying V
SNOW
130 Jones Mini Mind Expander (youth) or
137 Nitro Squash (youth) or
138 Lib Tech Orca (youth)
Can you let me know what your thoughts are? What other brands make profiles comparable to Burton’s Flying V? C2e? Are asymmetrical boards better for all mountain and less ideal for park? Are the boards I listed under park even good for park? LOL I was looking at the 136 Ride Twin Pig- it’s a volume shifted board so even though it’s a 136, do you think it’s too big for me? 5’, 100lbs, boot size 5 🙂 Oh and I have been using the Step Ons in the size 5 you recommended- sooo good!
Thank you for your guidance! You have been amazing on my snowboarding journey. I have read so many of your articles- thanks for your time and passion to create an endless library of resources for the community globally. I have followed your advice yielding awesome results- thank you for making this learning process for me efficient, enjoyable, and safe. I appreciate your responses soooo much!! THANK YOU!!!
Hi again!
I spent more time on the Glider today which is BTX and it didn’t do much for me so I’ve crossed off the GNU boards since they have same/similar profiles. This is what I have so far:
FREESTYLE/ALL MOUNTAIN
138 Burton Talent Scout
LAZY DAY
140 Burton Flying V
POWDER
130 Jones Mini Mind Expander (youth) or
137 Nitro Squash (youth) or
138 Lib Tech Orca (youth)
I’d love to ride a board with the Flying V smaller. Are there any other brands that are similar and come in a smaller size?
Thanks again!!
Hi Virginia
Thanks for the updates.
Firstly, I wouldn’t say that GNU boards have similar profiles – the B Nice and Glider have the same profile, but those are the most rocker dominant in their line. Their more camber dominant profiles (C2X, C3) are quite different. Even just C2 is quite different. But I wouldn’t say anything is the same as Flying V. Flying V has rocker between the feet, camber under the feet and then rocker again before the contact points. GNU/Lib Tech profiles don’t go bak to rocker before the contact points. Unfortunately don’t know any boards with the Flying V profiled smaller than the Yeasayer Flying V 140.
Most similar would probably be GNU/Lib Tech/Roxy C2 or C2X or Nitro’s Gullwing (but I think only the Mystique has it and smallest size is 142).
I find asymmetrical all good for park. I love it riding switch too. My park board (Never Summer Proto Slinger) is an asym as well as my all-mtn-freestyle board (YES Greats).
Yeah, I think the 136 Twin Pig is a little big overall.
Of those powder boards, the Mini Mind Expander will be the easiest ride – not only because it’s smaller, but would be in the same sizes. If you think you’d like stiff in your powder board, then the Orca is the stiffer option of those 3. The Squash Youth is the most camber dominant, but not as stiff as the Orca, by the looks of it.
Hi, Nate!
Thank you so much for writing this article — your knowledge describing why certain tech features are important for beginners is helping me make a much more informed board choice!
After reading your reviews, I wanted to get the Nitro Lectra, but it’s sold out everywhere online I can find… I’m a new rider (I rode two different days pre-quarantimes in 2019, but that’s it) and I’m looking for a board that will allow me to progress my skills and confidence quickly and also allow me to figure out what style of riding I’m most drawn to. I have the idea of backcountry riding in my dreams already (I’ve been into various wilderness sports for a while, and I’m super stoked on the idea of taking snowboarding into a more wilderness setting.) I’m totally fine with getting a board to learn on and hone my skills and then needing to sell it and get a different board as I progress and figure out what kind(s) of riding I want to be doing after a season or two.
I’m 5′ (152.4cm) and typically between 115-120lbs (52-55kg) and I wear a boot size 4 or 5. What boards and bindings would you recommend as the most similar to the Nitro Lectra, or the as the best for what I’m trying to do? Also, what is likely the best length of snowboard for me?
Thank you so much for your time!
Cheers,
Alice
Hi Alice
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of size, I would put you at around 142 for your “standard all-mountain” size, but as a beginner, I’d go a little shorter. More like 137-140, depending on the width. With size 4-5, I’d look for something as narrow as possible or if not, then size down a little to make up for the width. Given you’re looking for something versatile, I think the following would work well.
– K2 First Lite 138 (232mm waist). Still on the wider side for your boots, but given it’s at the shorter end of your length range, I think it’s doable.
– Arbor Ethos 138 (231mm waist). Ditto comments above
– GNU Gloss 136 (226mm waist) – it’s a little bit above a beginner board, but doable – and in that size, I think it would be fine for you as a beginner board.
– Salomon Lotus 135 (233mm waist) – it’s getting on the short side, but at that width (compared to your boot size), I think it would still work overall for your specs.
– Nitro Lectra 138 (226mm waist) – would have been a great size for you, IMO, but of course, you can’t find it. But the other options above would all work, IMO.
Hopefully you can find one of those
Hi Nate,
Really appreciate this info.
I live out west and will ride in NW Montana resorts. I took a handful of lessons with ~5-6 days on the mountain last winter. I link turns fine, but was riding in iffy spring conditions and stuck to greens. Plan to get out a lot more this winter.
I am just under 5’7″ and 125-130 lbs w/ 8 shoe size. I rented a 146 before, my instructor adjusted my bindings a couple times and told me he thought I might prefer 147 (I seemed more comfortable to him with a slightly wider than usual stance).
I found a great lightly used deal on the Rossignol Frenemy w/ Rossignol Diva bindings in a 147 length. I know this combo is getting intermediate, do you think it would be doable for me?
Hi Emily
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t base size on stance width – as you should be able to achieve your wider stance width, even on shorter boards – there’s usually a good range of stance widths. Unless you’re stance is super wide, it shouldn’t affect things too much (if it’s like way wider than reference, then it can chance the feel of the board for sure, but going too much longer just to get a wider stance width isn’t necessary). Some boards come with a wider reference for their length naturally anyway.
That said, I think as a high-end beginner, bordering on intermediate (at a guess?), I think something around 144 to 146 is your ideal range. So the Frenemy isn’t far outside of that, so it’s doable. However, the Diva bindings look to be a bit stiff for the Frenemy and for your level. Not sure why they’ve paired those together. I don’t test Rossignol bindings, so I can’t say for sure, but based on specs, they look a little stiff. Width-wise, the 147 Frenemy should be fine.
As it sounds like you’ve progressed fairly quickly (which getting a good number of lessons will certainly of helped!), I think you’re probably in that high end beginner, bordering on low-intermediate range, so you could potentially look at intermediate boards, like in our >>top 10 women’s intermediate snowboards. Note that the Frenemy was in that list last year, but they’re not making it this year. However, the Rossignol Airis is a very similar board and replaces the Frenemy.
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate!
So I wound up picking up a 2019 Never Summer Infinity 145cm I found in great shape… hoping this will last me a while without being too overwhelming (also figured I could also use a rental board board a few more times if needed).
Still looking for bindings – with the slightly stiffer board would I be best off picking from your list of top beginner bindings or should I ~match the flex between board and binding?
I have a pretty low budget for this setup and am keeping an eye out for resale/prior year bindings that will keep me this season at minimum (expecting to get out 10-12 times).
Do you have a couple different models you’d recommend I look out for? In addition to not being sure about flex, it gets confusing looking for prior year deals in top bindings you’ve highlighted as model names seem to fluctuate at times…
Would appreciate any other tips you have for me!
Emily
Hi Emily
I think that’s a great choice! Infinity isn’t too challenging a board – something that I highly recommend for high-end beginners, but should also stay with you a long way through your progression. And the size is just right too, IMO.
In terms of bindings, I would try to match the flex closely. But doesn’t have to be exact. The Infinity is something that we rate as 4/10 flex, so I’d say to try to get something 4/10 or 5/10 flex. As a beginner, I think 4/10 would be spot on – as it will match the board well and your level. But 5/10 is also doable.
True some models drop out altogether and some change names. I archive all my past season’s lists, so you can check those out too. When you go to this page, scroll to the bottom and you’ll see a link to the past season’s lists.
But some models, that are a good price (and should be even better in a past season model) and are in a good flex range include (all under $240 full price):
– Union Milan (4/10 flex)
– K2 Meridian (4/10 flex)
– Salomon Nova (4/10 flex)
– NOW Vetta (4/10 flex)
– Ride CL-4 (4/10 flex)
– Burton Scribe (5/10 flex)
– Union Juliet (5/10 flex)
– Arbor Sequoia (5/10 flex)
Tried to give a good number of options, to give you the best chance of finding something in a past season model. All of those had 2020 models. If you needed to go even cheaper, you’d likely have to go softer than 4/10 flex. Which is doable, if you really need to, but ideally the Infinity is best with 4/10 or 5/10 flex, IMO.
Wow, thank you so much! Exactly the kind of info I was hoping for and will really help me find a deal. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving!!
You’re very welcome Emily. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving too – and a great season!
Hi Nate!
I’ve been snowboarding for 2 seasons (3 days the first one and 4 days the second one) and I’d like to get my own board.
The boards I’ve rented in past seasons have been 140-142 cm, but I’ve read your opinions and I think a 138 board will fit me better. Am I right? I am 152 cm (5,0 ft), 50-51 Kg (110-112 lb) and I have women’s 38 (7) boots.
I’m looking for a begginer flat out rocker (or similar) snowboard. My options are:
Nitro Lectra 138 (2021)
Nidecker Elle 139
Rossignol Gala 142 (2021). There is no smaller size.
Rome Royal 138 (2021)
Burton Stylus 138
Burton Hideaway flat top 140 (2022). There is no smaller size.
I usually snowboard in hard snow and I’m starting to concatenate turns. This season I plan to snow 10+ days. I prioritize a fast progression in the safest way over buying an advanced board which last me for many years and get frustrated by falling a lot. However, I’d like to know your opinion about this, and know if you think these boards could last me at least 2 seasons.
Lots of considerations, not a native English speaker. I hope I have explained myself.
Thank you very much for your reviews and all your kind replies!
Hi Celia
Thanks for your message – and you explained yourself very well.
Size-wise, I think something around 138 is a good bet. And no more than 140 certainly, IMO.
So, I would be leaning Lectra 138. I think that’s the best bet for what you’re describing and in a good size. The Nidecker Elle and looks good on paper. I am beginner to test Nidecker this winter, but haven’t in the past. On paper, the Elle looks like a good fit to what you’re describing, your level, your specs etc. Rome Royal may also be suitable, though it’s on the wider side for 7s, IMO.
The Gala a little too long, IMO.
The Stylus 138 and Hideaway 140 could certainly work, but Stylus bordering on being a little wide and Hideaway right at that max length.
I would say something like this could last you 2 seasons of progression for sure, if you’re doing around 10 days per season. And yeah, I think the best way to go is fast progression and build confidence, then upgrade, rather than buying a board that’s too advanced and developing low confidence and poor technique.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Thank you for your message
I will definitely go for the Nitro Lectra, if I can find the past season model. If not, I will probably go for the Nidecker Elle.
I have read a lot about snowboards, but I have no idea about bindings. I have read your “Top Women’s Bindings” post, but I’m a bit lost and I’d like to ask you for some bindings models for this specific snowboard.
What would be the features I should take into account in order to decide which ones to buy?
Thanks!
Hi Celia
To match the Lectra (or Elle), your specs and your current level of riding, I’d be looking at something around 3/10 to 4/10 flex. Matching the flex is the most important thing you want to look at, at this stage in my opinion, as well as comfort.
Something like the Union Milan, Salomon Nova, K2 Meridian, Union Rosa or Arbor Acacia would work well, IMO.
Than you very much, Nate. Finally, I’m going to buy the Nidecker Elle! I hope not to be wrong.
I like the Union Rosa and Milan bindings, but I was wondering what is your opinion about the Nidecker Muon X. They match the board but they seem to be worse than the Union in terms of quality and specs.
And the Union Milan seem to be a bit more advanced than the others, so I might lean towards the Union Rosa.
What do you think?
Sorry, the Nidecker Muon W
Hi Celia
I don’t have any experience with Nidecker bindings (yet), unfortunately, so not sure what they would be like. On paper they look like they would work, but not really sure.
Yeah Milan is a little step up, but still beginner friendly for sure. Just a higher quality and something that’s really good for freestyle. But still works well as a beginner binding, IMO. The Rosa is a step down, but it’s also super friendly to ride (and friendly on the bank account!). And whilst they’re not up to the quality of other Union bindings, they’re still decent for the price you pay.
Hi Nate, thanks for being so responsive with everyone! Hoping to buy my first board, but overwhelmed by the choices. I have 2 trips planned for this season already, but this will be my third time snowboarding ever. I mostly see myself going down groomers, looking to just get something to build my confidence with turns (I struggle on toe side), but also don’t want to have to buy another board for awhile. I got the Burton limelight boa boots in a size 9. I am 5’6″, 130-135 lb. I was thinking about 144-145cm.
So far I have been looking at the following:
-GNU chromatic
-Arbor ethos
-Burton Yeasayer
-Salomon Wonder
What would you recommend?
Thanks!
Lejla
HI Lejla
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, length-wise, I agree that something around 144/145 would be a good length for you. Width-wise, I’d say look at something with a waist width in the 236mm to 242mm range.
The likes of the GNU Chromatic and Arbor Ethos are going to be the easiest to ride and likely provide the fastest progression, but will also something that you would want to upgrade from sooner, if you progressed quite quickly.
The Yeasayer (were you thinking Flying V or Flat Top?) and Salomon Wonder (or Salomon Gypsy is another that falls into the same category) are boards that will have a bit of a steeper learning curve, but that you could keep for longer – in the case of the Wonder/Gypsy, something you could keep indefinitely, depending on how you riding progressed. Still nothing that are crazy difficult to ride or anything, so still beginner friendly-ish. I’d say if you feel like you’re a high-end beginner bordering on low intermediate, then they could work.
Also good for low end intermediate/high beginner:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Let me know what you’re thinking you’ll go with and I’d be happy to give you my opinion on the best size for that specific board.
Hope this helps
After much deliberation, I’m going to go with the arbor ethos. I like the company and if I end up needing a new board in a couple of years, I’ll have a better sense of what I need at that point. I want to build confidence and improve my skills for now. What size specifically and bindings do you recommend?
Hi Lejla
Good call, IMO. Build that confidence now and, like you say, you’ll get a feel for what you’ll want out of your next board.
Size-wise for the Ethos, I would go 144. I think that would be just right. Width-wise it’s narrower at the waist than what we discussed, but Arbor boards are wider at the inserts (where your boots will actually be) than the waist width suggests, so I think the width will be perfectly fine.
Thanks so much nate for letting me cognitively offload this decision to you! It can be tough with so many options, but I feel like I’m making the right choice now.
You’re very welcome Lejla. Hope you have an awesome season! If you think of it at the time let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow.
Hi Nate, really helpful reviews you have here! I’m looking at getting my first board this off-season (New Zealand) and am struggling to find one that’s appropriate for me. I’m a beginner who is still gaining confidence on the mountain so looking for something that will be good for starting out. The boards I’ve rented in past seasons have been 152cm (for reference I am 5’7 and 110lbs, women’s 8 boots), what size would you suggest I go with as I’m a little confused when it comes to size charts given my height/weight.
Any help on the topic would be greatly appreciated! It’s very overwhelming with so many options out there, it’s hard to know what to commit to! Thank you
Hi Lisa
Thanks for your message.
And I’m glad you did. Sounds like you’re another that’s been sized only (or at least predominantly) taking height into account (which is often the case with rentals, as it’s the fastest way to choose a size). I could be wrong, but it certainly looks that way, because 152 is way too big, IMO, for your specs. No guarantees, but I suspect you’re going to find your confidence a lot quicker if you get on a properly sized board for your specs.
I’d say closer to 144, even as amore advanced rider. As a beginner, I would be looking in the 139 to 141 length, ideally. However, I like to take everything into account, and given that you’ve started out riding a 152, you can go up a little since that’s what your body has tried (probably difficultly) to adapt to. So I’d look in the 141-144 size-range.
So long as you find something with an appropriate beginner flex and a board that’s easy enough to turn without catching an edge, and you get it in that size range, you’re going to find things much easier, IMO.
So anything from this list in that size range.
Width-wise, with 8s, you should be good with most boards in that length range. But if you want to be on the safe side, probably go at least 231mm in terms of waist width – but no more than around 241mm. But if you find something and you’re not sure if it’s an appropriate width, let me know and I’d be happy to give my opinion. Also, if you find a board that you suspect is beginner appropriate in that size range, that’s not on this list, let me know and I can let you know if I think it’s appropriate or not.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, I’m moving south in a year so I want to use the last winter left in Michigan to learn how to snowboard. I’ve only been on the slopes a few times, so I’m very much a beginner.
I am 5’3″, 112lbs, size 8.5 shoes but my 8.5 snowboard boots are too small (I’ll probably buy 9s). I definitely want to try to buy last year’s gear, but from reading some of your comments here I’m worried most of the boards might be too narrow for me.
Do you know which 2021 boards would come in the right width for me?
Hi Justyna
Thanks for your message.
With 9s, if you wanted to be really safe, go with something 240mm+ – but no more than 250mm and only that wide, if you were riding with a straight back binding angle. Likely you would get away with narrower than that, particularly if you’re riding with more angle on the back foot as most do. E.g. if you’re riding +15/-15, then you could get away with as narrow as 232mm.
Length-wise, I’d say something around 138-140, as a beginner, is a good way to go. Certainly limits the options, if you want to go with at least 240mm, but there are some options:
– Burton Stylus 138 (240mm waist)
– Rossignol Meraki 140 (240mm waist)
– Burton Yeasayer (Flat Top or Flying V) 140 (240mm waist) – not complete beginner, but high end beginner appropriate.
But if you were to drop that width to 235mm, then you could also add these to the list, to give you more options:
– Burton Hideaway 140
– K2 Dreamsicle 138
– Ride Compact 138
– Salomon Lotus 138
– Salomon Oh Yeah 138
Not sure about availability in 2021 models, but hopefully with more options, you can find one of those in a 2021.
Also, keep in mind that different brands of boots fit differently. Your 8.5 might be too small in the brand your currently riding, but another brand’s 8.5 might actually fit fine. If you can at all try on, then that’s the best way to go, of course, but if you can’t try before you buy, the following should give you some idea of which brands tend to fit true to size or run small or large.
>>Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Hope this helps
Thanks, Nate, for providing all the details! This was very helpful! I haven’t been able to find any of these boards in the 2021 models, but I will keep an eye out for them.
Thanks, again, for your help!
You’re very welcome Justyna. Let me know how you get on.
Hi Nate,
Really enjoy reading your reviews and guides, been very helpful in this minefield of snowboards and more….
I’m a beginner with some limited time on the snow. Looking for a beginner/intermediate all mountain board. After looking, I’m now so confused due to the vast amount of choice. Any help or advice will be appreciated. I live in Austria.
I’m a tall woman so I have been looking at some men’s boards due to my height and weight as not many women’s boards for my height. I’ve been looking at 155 – 157cm
My Specs:
150lbs (68kg)
5.10″ (180cm)
Shoe (US 9/EU 40)
I’ve looked at the GNU Money 2021, Capita Outerspace Living and others but I just cannot decide what would be good for me and bindings to suit (Thought of Union Rosa or Ride CL-3/4)
Any Suggestions?
Keep up the excellent website 🙂
Cheers
Rachel
Hi Rachel
Thanks for your message.
IMO 155-157 is too big for you. I would say more like 153, even at an advanced level – and as a beginner/intermediate rider, I would be looking at something more like 149-151. But certainly no more than 153. And for US Women’s 9/EU 40 the width should be fine in plenty of women’s boards at that length. SO, you could go men’s, if you wanted but you’ve certainly got the option for some women’s boards too. If you do go men’s I certainly wouldn’t go as long as 155-157 and I would watch for width – a lot will be too wide.
The Outerspace Living is one men’s board that you could look at though – I think the 150 would be a great size for you in that board, both in terms of width and length, so that’s certainly a possibility. The Money, I think the 152 would be too big in terms of length and width combined, so the 148 would be the better bet. That would be a possibility, but I like the 150 OSL in terms of size for you better.
For some good women’s options I would look at:
– GNU Chromatic 149 or 152
– Salomon Wonder 152
– YES Emoticon 149 or 152
– YES Hello 149 or 152
– Rossignol Airis 152 (or Rossignol Frenemy 150 (if you can find a 2021 model)
Hope this helps
Never Summer Infinity would also be a great option in 151, but probably a bit too narrow, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Firstly thank you for the quick reply and your honest opinion about the right size board for me. Show’s, don’t always believe sales people, as they suggested 155…
I’m definitely like the look of the Yes Hello 152 as it’s the baby sister of Hel Yes and the Soloman Wonder 152. I also found a deal on a Rossignol Frenemy 150 with Voodoo S/M bindings set +-400 euro’s
I’m going to stay away from men’s boards as you’ve now giving me the correct size.
So it’s between those three but if you have any other suggestions as I’m looking for a good resort but all mountain board to explore the powder more. Not to worried about Park as it’s not my thing, I love to explore the mountains…
Rachel
Hi Rachel
Those 3 are all suited to what you’re describing. None of them are what I would call amazing powder boards – but above average in powder, for sure. If you’re riding in waist deep powder, they’ll certainly require a bit more work to keep the nose above the snow than something that’s more powder specialist, but would still be fine – and work well in shallower powder. But also a good balance between powder and resort riding.
A lot of sales people (but certainly not all) and rental places still just go predominantly on height, just because it’s easier and faster – but definitely not as accurate.
Hi Nate,
Not sure if you got my previous response 🙂
Thank you o much for the advice and help and the selection of boards to look at. Great selection.
What do you think of the Jones Dream Catcher 151/154
Hi Rachel
Yes, got your other message – answered above (comments just need to be moderated before being published, so that’s why it won’t have shown up straight away).
The Dream Catcher is a little step up in terms of ability level, which is why I didn’t consider it before. But in saying that it’s still intermediate friendly, so if you felt you were ready for a slightly bigger step up, it’s certainly doable. It would give you a little better powder performance than the other 3 as well.
Size-wise, usually I’d say go 151, but in the case of the Dream Catcher, 154 is an option. It’s a board that feels smaller than it’s overall length. That’s because there’s overall less effective edge in comparison to overall length compared to the average board. For example, the effective edge on the Dream Catcher 154 is the same as what it is on the 152 YES Hello, and not much longer the 152 Wonder and 150 Frenemy. The 151 DC has a smaller effective edge than all of the 152 YES Hello, 150 Frenemy and 152 Wonder. So in this case, I don’t think the 151 would be too small. But think of it more like deciding between a 149 and a 152, rather than 151 and 154, if that makes sense.
Hi Nate,
Just a quick thank you for all the advice, it was extremely helpful in this minefield of snowboarding gear.
I decided on the end to purchase a Jones Dreamcatcher 154. I know it’s slightly more advanced but I’m a quicker learner and I could use it for a few good seasons.
Keep up the excellent reviews and help. We all appreciate it.
Hi Rachel
You’re very welcome. And thanks for the update. If you think of it at the time, I’d love to hear what you think, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow.
Hi Nate,
I’m a beginner snowboarder looking to buy my first snowboard. Hoping to move from greens to blues in the upcoming season. I’m thinking of pre-ordering the K2 First Lite 2022 but I’m not sure if I should go with the 146 or 150 (or maybe I should go with a completely different board?) My first season I rode a used 150 intermediate Ride board. I’m also looking at the Libtech Glider 147, I’m open to any brand/price.
height 5’9”
weight 137 lbs
Thank you so much for any help and thank you for the post!
Hi Tess
Thanks for your message.
For the First Lite I would be leaning towards the 146. The 150 is doable, but I think it’s a size that would be more suitable for you as a more advanced rider. The Glider in 147 is also a good option. If you were wanting to look at something more intermediate, then you could also check out:
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
But those 2 would be perfectly suitable. In general, I would look at something around that 146-148 range.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate — Thanks so much for the reviews and guidance on your site. I’m buying my girlfriend a setup in the offseason and need help on a direction to go.
She is 5’7″ 130-135lbs and size 8/8.5 boots.
She just learned how to link her turns and will be moving from greens to blues next season (hopefully). Looking for a more all-mountain/freeride focused board + what size to get here?
The size charts from the manufactures put her anywhere from 148-151cm but with your rec of sizing down, she should be more like 146cm maybe? Is 146cm ok even if they say the max weight of 130 and she’s 135?
Looking for something she can progress on quickly but will also last her into the lower intermediate phase for an extra year or so… if you have more recs please send em over:)
Current boards in consideration:
Rossi Gala ~146 or 150~
Salomon Lotus ~146 or 151~
Ride Compact ~146 or 150~
K2 Bright Lite ~146 or 149~ (if I can find one)
Thanks so much!
Hi Hayden
Thanks for your message (I got both messages, they just had to be moderated first – deleted the other one, just for tidiness)
Size-wise, I think around 146 is the best option. As a more advanced rider, I would say 148/149, but for now 145/146 is a better way to go. I wouldn’t worry too much about her being on the upper limit of the weight recommendations for some boards in that size range.
The Gala is potentially borderline too narrow for 8.5s. I’d say no problem with 8s and probably fine for 8.5s too, but just on the borderline.
Something like the Bright Lite is one that is a little better for lasting longer through your girlfriend’s progression but being just a little bit of a steeper learning curve, versus something like the First Lite. Note that the Bright Lite changed it’s name to the Dreamsicle for the 2021 model. So the last Bright Lite’s were 2020 models – which may explain why you’re having difficulty finding one. Though I’m not sure what the availability of the Dreamsicle is currently. Gala and First Lite probably 2 that are more beginner, beginner, and less suitable for intermediate riders. Still doable though.
Some other options that would fit well, IMO, taking into account:
– YES Emoticon (though might be borderline too freestyle oriented for what you’re looking for)
– GNU Chromatic
– Arbor Poporazzi Rocker (also potentially too borderline freestyle oriented)
– Never Summer Infinity (borderline too advanced, but would probably be fine, a good high-end beginner/low intermediate option)
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hey Nate,
I am looking to get my wife a board. She has been out about 6 times and is starting to get the hang of turning and stopping though still catching edges. I like the description of the YES emoticon and the Rossignol Gala. I’d love to go Capita Paradise but it is probably too expensive and advanced to go all in with that. I think the rocker/camber or camber/rockers are going to be better then the full rocker rentals she has been on (she has a problem with over turning/ not having much control over direction and generally spinning), so all these would accomplish that.
My question is sizing. She is 5′ 5″, 7.5 boot, 135 – 150 lbs depending on fitness level and diet. Height to her chin/nose is 143 cm to 146 cm. According the size charts they say she should be on something 149 cm to 152 cm, but your recommendations seem to go much shorter than that. So would you recommend 143, 146, or 149?
Follow up question. It says online women’s flex should be less stiff than men’s. I personally like 5/10 so I was thinking the 3/10 (Rossignol Gala) or 4/10 (YES emoticon) for her would be on point. Do you think 4/10 would be too stiff or just right? I don’t foresee her doing any park, for a really long time at least, but she has big dreams that I think align more with all mountain freestyle. And would you recommend the higher flex on matching boots and bindings as well? Would 5 or 6 throw off her feel, should match with 3 or 4, or does it even matter?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Neal
Thanks for your messages (got the other one too, just had to be moderated – deleted the other one as this one has all the info in it).
Emoticon and Gala are solid choices, IMO. The Emoticon is just that little bit more advanced, but still good for a beginner, IMO – but maybe just that slight bit steeper of a learning curve versus something like the Gala.
Size-wise, based on 140 lbs, I would say around 149 would be a good advanced level size. But as a beginner, sizing down is a good idea, so I would look at something in the 144-146 range. So, for both boards, I think 146 would be the best size. Width-wise both should work well with 7.5 boots.
For bindings and boots, I would try to match that flex of the board or go a little stiffer than board. But in her case, as a beginner, I would still keep to 4/10 flex or less. So, with the Emoticon you could match it with 5/10 flex boots and bindings, or 4/10, but in this case I’d stick to 4/10 where possible. For the Gala, anything 3/10 or 4/10.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I liked your review a lot, you really know your stuff! I’m thinking about buying my first board. I don’t go snowboarding too often, maybe 7-10 days per season. I’ve done 3 seasons now but I guess it can count as 1 since I haven’t snowboarded more than 7 days per season. I’ve always rented and am still a beginner struggling with my turns and getting scared when I go too fast. I do want to invest in a board to get more confident and progress but I’m not quite sure which board to go for.
I’m 158 cm and 48 kg (or 106 lbs)
I have thirtytwo w’s stw boa shoes in size 6.5
I go snowboarding in Europe so we have different conditions, both powder and ice.
I was thinking about getting Nitro Lectra 142 but I’m not quite sure if the size is right for me or should I go for something shorter. I like the design and the board is available in the store near me in this size which is why I’m leaning toward it. Was also looking at Rossignol Gala 142 but price wise Nitro is winning. In general, I want a board that will help me to finally feel confident and enjoy the ride but also will last me a few seasons since I don’t snowboard a ton.
If you have any other suggestions I would really appreciate them!
Thanks,
Nat
Hi Nat
Thanks for your message.
I think the 138 Lectra is probably more ideal for you, especially for right not as your progressing out of the beginner phase. 142 is on the big side for you, IMO, but it’s doable. I don’t think it will feel like a tank for you, but it’s on the big end of your range, IMO, and will be a little harder to ride and likely a slightly slower progression.
Ideally, I would be looking at something 136-139 in terms of length, for your specs/ability. 142 isn’t gigantic but just outside that ideal range, IMO.
Not sure what you have available to you, but something like the GNU Chromatic 140, GNU Gloss 136 (high-end beginner/early intermediate but at that size I don’t think you’d have any issues with it), Arbor Poparazzi Rocker 138, Arbor Ethos 138, Salomon Lotus 138, just looking at all-mountain/all-mountain-freestyle options in that size range, that are good in icy conditions.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I really appreciated reading your reviews, your clear and thoughtful explanations. I have an unusual body type, and I wondered if you’d be able to offer some board sizing advice. I live in Alberta, doing most of my boarding in the rockies. I’m a beginner, getting the hang of connecting turns and gaining confidence on beginner and intermediate slopes. I’m currently riding a beat up 135cm Jr. board that I purchased second-hand from a board rental shop at one of the resorts, and am looking to upgrade.
I’m an adult (37 yo)
I am 145cm tall (4’9”)
My height at my nose is 133cm
I weigh 125-128 lbs. (56.7-58 kg)
Shoe size: ladies 5 (US)/mens 3; I have second-hand K2 boys boots
I have new Salomon Rhythm bindings
I’m short but heavy! I was told by someone at a ski shop that the 138 Nitro Lectra will be too flexy for my weight and I’ll slide out, but I’m nervous to go longer, given my height. I was recommended the Jr. board, Nitro Future Team in 138. I’m not attached to any particular brand, I want the best thing for me. I would appreciate any advice you may have! Thanks!
Eva
Hi Eva
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, for your specs, as a beginner, anything 138-140 is a good length range to look at, IMO. I don’t think you’d have too many issues at your weight on the 138 Lectra. And the Future Team doesn’t look to be any stiffer flexing than the Lectra. Between those two options, I would go Lectra, because it’s narrower than the Future Team. With size 5 boots, you’ll want to go narrower than than something like the Future Team. If you were to go as wide as that, I think you’d want to size down more, to make up for that extra width.
In terms of narrow options, the GNU B-Nice 139 is also a good choice – and good for beginners. Or the GNU Velvet. It’s a little more advanced, but if you’re a high-end beginner, it should still work, just with a bit of a steeper learning curve. There’s also the Roxy Sugar Banana. Very beginner, but also a nice narrow waist. Or the Lib Tech Glider 139. Certainly more options if you wanted to go a little wider, but I would try to stay as narrow as possible, with 5s.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I was wondering if you’d be able to give me some advise on what board would be best for me. I am a beginner but have already been pretty successful at linking turns with the rental boards and am feeling really good and confident in my progress so far. So, I am looking to get my first board but am not sure which one would be good for me. I am 5 feet tall, about 100 pounds, and my shoe size is a US female 5.5-6 depending on the boot. I know I need a board with a smaller waist to accommodate my small feet, but don’t really want to get a kids board either. I also ride mostly on the icy east coast. Any insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge with all of us!
Hi Melissa
Thanks for your message.
Definitely agree that you want to go quite narrow. But there are definitely some narrower women’s options and you shouldn’t need to go to kids boards. I would try to go no wider than 232mm at the waist.
In terms of length, I think 139 absolute maximum. But if you can go shorter, I think 136-138 is a good range. You could even go a little shorter than that, but there aren’t really any women’s options I know of that are shorter than 136.
The following fit that range for size, and are also good in icy conditions and good for beginners:
– GNU Gloss 136 (226mm waist)
– GNU B-Nice 139 (226mm waist)
– Arbor Ethos 138 (231mm waist)
– Arbor Poparazzi Rocker 138 (231mm waist)
– Lib Tech Glider 139 (226mm waist)
– Roxy Sugar Banana 138 (226mm waist)
I would be leaning GNU Gloss or Roxy Sugar Banana, just because I think the sizing is the best for you. The Sugar Banana is a more pure beginner board, with the Gloss being a little step up. Still beginner friendly, but more high-end beginner – so if you feel your there, that might be a good option as it would last you further through your progression.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m new to posting so forgive me if I did it in the wrong place. I’m new to snowboarding, I’m 5’6’’ approximately 140lbs, and 8-8.5 shoe size. I’m looking at the Nitro Lectra but concerned if it’s too narrow for me? Also, in terms of length, what would you recommend? I’ll be happy to pick your brain on top options for me. Thanks so much for your time!
Hi Maria
Thanks for your message.
I think the 146 would be your best size in the Lectra and in that size, I think the width would be fine. Certainly if you end up in 8 snowboard boots. Borderline for 8.5s, but I think you would still likely be fine. But if you’re worried about it and would like other options, let me know and I would be happy to suggest some.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you so much, Nate!
I read snowboarding boots should be about 1/2 size below what you usually wear and it takes a couple of weeks to break them in. Do you think I should go with the 8 then? I borrowed an 8.5 from a friend and they fit well but I am also not sure what I am looking for in the fit. I feel like most athletic shoes I have are 8 but I like more room in normal boots so tend to buy 8.5, depending on brand of course. Also, do you think the union bindings would be a good choice?
Thanks again- I really appreciate your time and help!
Maria
Hi Maria
If you wear 8 in athletic shoes, then you’ll likely be an 8 in snowboard boots, but not necessarily. It somewhat depends on the brand too. If you’re unable to try on, I would check out the following to see what might fit you best.
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
If you can try on, then you want the fit to be so that your toes are just touching the end when standing. There shouldn’t be any big pressure there and certainly shouldn’t have to curl your toes, but just brushing is perfect. They will break in over time, but that’s a pretty good bet to be a good size to start out and won’t pack out too much after breaking in. If you try an 8.5 and feel like your toes aren’t brushing and then in the 8 your toes are crushed, then I would still go with the 8.5 – your toes would be very close to brushing, if you’re toes are being crushed in the 8, if that makes sense.
For stiffer boots it can certainly take a good while to break them in, but for softer boots, which I would recommend as a beginner, they will break in much quicker. They should feel pretty decent from day 1 and just a few days of riding to have them broken in.
The Union Rosa would be a great match for the Lectra – and a great beginner’s option too.
Nate, I forgot to ask for a couple more options you recommend for me if I can’t get my hands on a Nitro Lectra (which is looking pretty bad).
Thanks again for everything,
Maria
Hi Maria
If you’re not sure how you think you’re riding style will progress, then going for something all-mountain is a good idea – something that’s decent at everything. E.g. if you’re not sure if you’ll do any freestyle riding in the future, or whether or not you’ll ride powder etc. All-mountain-freestyle also pretty good bet, if you don’t think you’ll see much powder.
If you’re already interested in riding freestyle (jumps, tricks etc), then going for a freestyle board is a good bet. You can still learn all the basic technique on a board like that, and then it will be a good board to learn freestyle on, once you’ve mastered some basics. Then if you need a more advanced all-mountain board sometime down the line, you can either sell it or keep it as your dedicated freestyle/park board.
Most beginners opt for something all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle, but some kind of know what interests them already and then you can go for a more specific option.
Each board on this list has the style labelled.
In terms of size, I would be looking at anything between 144 and 147.
Thank you so much, Nate! This information has been all so helpful. Lastly, if I do invest in the Lectra and the Rosa bindings, do you think they will be good for a couple of years? Or if I progress quickly I’d have to switch the board and/or bindings? Also saw the Ethos at the store, but the guy helping me out said that the Ethos is good to start but once you reach a certain point, I’d have to switch to a new board to keep progressing. Just wanted your input! Thanks so much again,
María
Hi Maria
I think it depends on how often you’ll be riding. If you’re going up like 20+ days, then you’ll probably want to upgrade by the end of the season or within a season, if you progress quickly. If you’re only going up a handful of times each season, then I would say it’s good for a couple of years.
Hi Nate!
Wow, you sure know your stuff! I really like all your explanations here.
So, I’ll go ahead and ask for some advice 🙂
I am a beginner snowboarder, still at the level of taking some “shy” turns, and I am quite hung up on the Nitro Lectra. It seems to me that Nitros are a bit narrower than other brands, so I am not sure which size to choose. (Also, is this only my rookie observation, or are they indeed narrower? Any idea why is that so?)
My measurements:
Weight: 54kg (119lbs)
Height: 163cm (5’3)
Boot Size: 7 (Burton Limelight BOA)
I was thinking about choosing Nitro Lectra 142, but I am wondering if that is too narrow for me? Somehow, 146 seems a bit too long, considering that up until now I’ve been riding a Burton Ltr 140.
Thanks, looking forward to your reply!
Iulia
Hi Iulia
Thanks for your message.
In terms of length, I think anything 140-142 is a good range for you to look at as a beginner, so I agree that 146 would be too long.
The Lectra is a little narrower than the average I would say, but there are other options that are similarly narrower. With Burton 7s, I don’t think you would have any issues on the 142 Lectra in terms of width.
So I would go 142 for the Lectra.
Hope this helps
Hi- thanks for your info. Very helpful for new beginner. I tried out snowboarding once with rental requirement and felt the equipments were not perfect for my needs and always thought I can pick it up faster if I have the right tools. I am 4 11 in height, 122 lbs, shoe size 6 (8.5 inches foot measurement). I ordered k2 first lite 138cm, small union Rosa binding, and vans high standard og boot size 6. Will you say they are good combo or I need to make any adjustments?
Hi ADub
Thanks for your message.
I think that’s a really good beginner setup and should help you to progress nice and quickly, IMO. Seems like you’ve done your research. The gear choices and sizing and everything looks spot on to me.
Height 68 inches! I think I wrote 60inches
Hi Jeanette
Thanks for your message.
Firstly in terms of size, I think something 146-148 is a good range to look at for your specs/level.
I would say the Cadence is more of an intermediate level and up board, but in the Rocker version, it would be doable as a beginner board. Probably a bit steeper of a learning curve than the boards on this list, but doable. If you went Cadence, I would go 147 Cadence Rocker, and I think that would be doable, even if a little steeper of a learning curve – though it sounds like you picked things up quickly, so you’ll probably be OK on it, I think.
Hope this helps
So I really like the Arbor brand and their business motto. When I looked at their boards, I fell in love with the Cadence design. I am 68inches at 145lbs and rented a 8 boot. I just went for the first time yesterday. I used my friends board with camber, little flex and short for me. I was picking up connecting turns at the end of the day. Do you recommend either the arbor camber or rocker for a beginner? And what size would you recommend. They have some oddities. 148 or 152 for camber and 147 or 151 for the rocker. Also, do you think the Arbor Cadence is too advanced of a board to start?
Hi Nate,
I am a beginner rider. I am learning to link the turns now. I just bought the Burton Ritual snowboard boots in size 8 (it’s on sale) and now I looking for a beginner board. I’m debating between Arbor Ethos(141 or 144), Salmon Lotus(142cm) and YES Emoticon(143cm). In your opinion, what is the best board for me? I might go with Burton citizen binding or Arbor Acacia binding.
weight: 140 lb
height: 165cm
boot size: 8
Thank you so much & have a wonderful holiday.
Hi Grace
They would all do a good job. I think I would be leaning Ethos 144 or Emoticon 143, just because their better in terms of sizing, IMO.
Hope you have a great holiday too!
Hi Nate. I am a first time beginner in indiana. I will be mostly boarding on man made snow. I am looking into the k2 lite board but not sure about size. I also am looking into the vans hi standard og boots after reading your top 5 recommended womens boots.
I am 5’3 130lbs and wearing a size 6.5 in boots.
Will this board work for the width? And if so what bindings would you recommend?
Hi Lexi
Thanks for your message.
Generally speaking I would say 141-143 for you, lengthwise, so the 142 First Lite would be spot on, IMO. Width-wise is a good match as well.
The Vans Hi-Standard OG also a really good choice, IMO, assuming the fit is good for your feet.
For bindings, I would check out:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
I am a beginner who bought a pass this year for big bear. I will be mostly riding bear mountain and snow summit in California. I know how to skateboard i’d say ok and pretty athletic but this is my first time ever snowboarding. Based on your recommendations I am very interested in the K2 First Lite 142 paired with union rosa bindings.
I am 5’4
120lbs
Size 8
I was wondering what your thoughts on this setup would be? Also what size bindings! Any other board recommendations would be great too. I just want the overall best board that can last me a couple of seasons as I progress. I can’t get my hands on a lectra
Hi Lizzy
Thanks for your message.
I think that setup would work really well for you and the sizing should be good too. In terms of binding size, if you’re going with the Rosa (which is a great beginner option), you should get the Medium (M).
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate!
What are your thoughts with the YES Emoticon as well? Now I’m deciding really between those 2 boards. K2 first lite and YES emoticon. Big bear can be icy sometimes and overall unpredictable snow conditions. What are the differences between these 2 boards?
Hi Lizzy
The Emoticon is better for hard/icy conditions, IMO.
The Emoticon is a little stiffer and just a little harder to turn, but a little more stable than the First Lite. It’s a small step up in terms of ability. It’s still certainly beginner friendly, but just ever so slightly harder to lean on. If you’re quite athletic though, I don’t think you would have any issues learning on it.
Thanks so much Nate for all the feedback. I think I’ll stick to the K2 first lite for the safe side and I’ll just have to upgrade in the future once my abilities are developed!
You’re very welcome Lizzy. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow. Happy riding!
Hi Nate!
I am a brand new beginner looking forward to this season. I’m 5’4 115-120lbs. Wondering what board you think would be best and what size? I can’t get my hands on a nitro lectra. So I was wondering what you think would be best! I’m a size 8 in shoes.
Hi Kimberley
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, as a beginner I would be looking at something around 139-141 for your specs. In terms of the board, something all-mountain is a good way to go, if you’re not sure what your style is going to be – or all-mountain-freestyle which are also pretty versatile. So something like the Rossi Gala, Arbor Ethos, K2 First Lite, YES Emoticon or GNU Chromatic.
Hope this helps
Appreciate the feedback Nate. I went and got fitted some boots actually and turns out I’m a 8.5 in the Burton Mint Boas. Does this change at all the size of the board you’d recommend? I asked the board shop sales employee what size they thought board id need and they said probably a 145 cm. Please advise! I hope you had a great holiday.
Hi Kimberley
In terms of length, I think you could eventually go up to something like a 145, as an advanced rider, depending on the style of riding you adapt – like if you end liking to ride fast or ride a lot of deep powder. But for now it would be too long, IMO.
In terms of width, it really depends on the particular board. For some boards you might need to go longer to get something wide enough, but in that case I just wouldn’t go with that particular board – so you can something with the right length and width.
For the boards mentioned, with 8.5s, the Gala, Ethos and First Lite you’d probably be fine width-wise on the 8.5s, particularly if you’re riding with binding angles like +15/-15, but if you wanted to play it safe, they might be pushing it a little narrow. The 143 Emoticon and Chromatic would be fine width-wise for you, IMO. A little longer than ideal, but better than going to 145, IMO. But yeah, I don’t think you’d have issues with the width of the others, but if you were concerned then those other 2 in 143 would definitely work.
Certainly other options that would have the right dimensions to work in smaller lengths. I wouldn’t compromise going that long just to get the right width, when there are plenty of options that will be wider in that 139-142 length range. Certainly a lot of the freestyle options on this list would be wide enough too.
Ok sweet! Yeah I thought 145 cm would of been too long as well. So right now I’m narrowing it down to Heartbreaker 139 2019/2020 or GNU Chromatic 143 2019/2020 last year models.
I did enjoy the video review of the heartbreaker! Would that width be ok? Thank you again
Hi Nate, sorry I was also able to find the nitro lectra 142cm! How would the width be on this one? Sorry for all the questions!
Hi Kimberley
I think the Lectra might be pushing it width-wise. I think if you’re definitely going to be riding +15/-15 binding angles, then you get away with it, but otherwise it’s probably a bit narrow.
I think you should be fine on the 139 Heartbreaker width-wise. With a zero degree back binding angle it could still be pushing it, but I think you would still be fine, particularly as a beginner. So pretty much any angle on that would be fine, IMO.
Gotcha ok so sounds like Lectra is out! I appreciate all the feedback.
One and last final question for you. If you were in my position which board would you go with riding on the west coast
139 Heartbreaker or possibly 143
143 YES Emoticon
I plan on using union rosa bindings size M with an 8.5 size boot (I think the L would be too big?)
Hi Kimberley
The 139 Heartbreaker would be the fastest/easiest progression, but something you might want to upgrade from fairly quickly after you’ve progressed, particularly if you’re not leaning towards freestyle riding.
The 143 Emoticon will be a slightly steeper learning curve but a little more versatile in terms of the style of riding and something you wouldn’t have to upgrade from for longer.
Yeah, I would go M for 8.5s for the Rosa.
Nate thank you so much for your time and help! I went with the Heartbreaker 139 cm with the rosa union bindings M. I think it will be fun to learn on this board and add to my quiver once I progress! Thanks so much again!!
You’re very welcome Kimberley. Happy riding!
Hi Nate, wondering if I can pick your brains?
I am a ski instructor but used to snowboard – probably last boarded 8 yers or so. I use to own two boards – an all mountain palmer liberty in a 150 and a burton g twin in a 147. I’m thinking of having a dabble again – I ended up preferring my gtwin because it was more fun on and around the piste. If the powder is deep I’d probably pick up my skis as I can skin to the best stuff more easily so the board would be mostly for the piste and side country – not keen on rails, but used to love a good kicker and just messing around with tricks.
Any recommendations for a board to get me back into it (tech has moved on a bit!), preferable a twin that can do a bit of everything. I’m 60kg and 168cm tall so sizing recommendations good too, I’m thinking 146-150.
I’ve been looking at the K2 limelight and the Spellcaster or the Salomon Gypsy as I can get good deals on RIDE, K2 and Salomon. Also looking at the K2 Hue binding – I used to use a Burton Lexa which I liked, but not keen to pay Burton prices when I can get a pro deal on other brands.
Thanks
Hi Rachel
Thanks for your message.
I think given that you used to snowboard, I don’t think it would take too long to get back into it, so you shouldn’t need to go beginner (and the boards you’ve mentioned aren’t beginner boards, but just because you’re on this page).
To me it sounds like an all-mountain-freestyle board is what you’re after. The Limelight is more what I would consider a park board. If you were doing more rails etc I think that would work, but I think you’re going to find it a bit soft overall and a bit too freestyle focused. The Spellcaster could definitely work, as would the Gypsy or the Salomon Rumblefish. The Ride Back Talk and Salomon No Drama could also be considered, but they are more aggressive options. If you wanted something more aggressive those could come into it, but otherwise, the Gypsy, Rumble Fish or Spellcaster, from those brands, is what I would be looking at.
Size-wise, I’d say 145-148, based on your specs and how you want to use the board and the type of boards you’re looking at. So for the boards mentioned, I would look at:
Gypsy 147
Rumble Fish 148
Spellcaster 147
Hope this helps
Nate! Your amazing man! Thanks for answering so many ppls questions and giving sizing advice. I’m going to use your knowledge also to get started in the sport. I’ve read most comments and found similar profiles but not exact..
Female 4’9”, 115#, women’s size 4 boot
Female 5’0”, 120#, women’s size 5-6 boot
Male 5’7”, 150-155#, men’s size 8 boot
All beginners. Ideally wanted to stay in adult boards unless you feel a youth shorter would be key to size and beginners. Almost just grabbed a lectra 138 and 142 for the girls but sold out every where 🙁
Boot size and board width I’m also concerned with for them I guess.
Hi Jared
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, that Lectra has proved to be very popular this year. Sold out really early.
Size-wise, I would say:
Female 4’9”, 115#, women’s size 4 boot – 136-138
Female 5’0”, 120#, women’s size 5-6 boot – 138-140
Male 5’7”, 150-155#, men’s size 8 boot – 150-152
Definitely a number of women’s boards still in that size range, so shouldn’t have to go to youth sizes.
Width-wise, I would try to get something narrow though for those boot sizes. So I would be looking at no more than a 232mm waist width for the size 5-6. And as narrow as possible for the size 4s.
So some options that would work well, IMO:
Female 4’9”, 115#, women’s size 4 boot
– GNU Gloss 136
– GNU B Nice 139 (as narrow as the Gloss but on the longer side)
– Nitro Lectra 138 (if you managed to find one!)
– Roxy Sugar Banana 138
All of the above have a 226mm waist width. For those lengths I wouldn’t go any wider than that. If you did want to go smaller, would have to look at youth boards.
Female 5’0”, 120#, women’s size 5-6 boot
– Arbor Ethos 138
– Arbor Poparazzi Rocker 138
– GNU B Nice 139
– GNU Chromatic 140
– K2 First Lite 138
– Roxy Ally 139
Male 5’7”, 150-155#, men’s size 8 boot
– Burton Instigator 150
– Burton Ripcord 150
– GNU Carbon Credit 150 (or potentially 153 if you felt you wanted to go a little longer)
– K2 Raygun 150 (or 153)
– K2 Standard 152
– Rossi Circuit 150
– Salomon Sight 150 (or 153)
– Salomon Pulse 152
Or if you wanted to step up to something slightly better, but with a slightly steeper learning curve – still easy enough to ride but not quite as beginner friendly, then something like:
– Never Summer Snowtrooper 152
– Rossignol Templar 153
– Capita Outerspace Living 152
Those should all be an appropriate size, including width for you.
Hope this helps
thanks again for all this info. Huge help.
Picked up GNU GLOSS 136. (brand new 202$.. the others wont be this cheap it appears ;/)
Heading out to grab GNU B NICE 139 (I was leaning toward the Poparazzi 138 for her but she likes BNICE graphic better and i dont know which would be better for her)
For me debating between. GNU carbon credit, Capita outerspace living. Arbor Forumla and GNU Money also sound similar from reviewing the first 2. You listed the Capita as able to grow into and be able to use longer. How much more forgiving for a beginner would the GNU be? Thoughts on those additional 2 boards?
Hi Jared
The Carbon Credit will certainly be more forgiving than the Outerspace Living (OSL) – and a different feel – a looser feel versus a more stable feel on the OSL. OSL a slightly steeper learning curve, but will give you more stability at speed when you start to ride faster. Just probably wouldn’t progress quite as quickly on it as something like the Carbon Credit. The Formula is more on the Carbon Credit part of the scale. Very forgiving. Maybe not quite as loose, but just as forgiving, I would say. The Money is basically the men’s equivalent of the women’s Gloss, so yeah, I think that would be doable for sure. It’s going to be a little less forgiving than the Carbon Credit, but a little more forgiving than the OSL still and not as stable feeling, but a little more stable feeling than the Carbon Credit, IMO.
Just wanted to say thanks again for the help.
went with. Gloss, Bnice, outerspaceLiving
looking to get 3-4 days/week on the slopes. so far so good. catching front edge sure sucks ha. heelside turning feels so much easier, feel like i’m really digging toes to try and turn that way and board barely goes that way… so i switch so i can heel that way ha. Fun stuff though
cheers
You’re very welcome Jared.
Yeah toe side is definitely more challenging to start. But actually becomes the edge that you end up being able to carve harder on as you progress. Stick with it and pretty soon you’ll even be preferring those toe side turns!
Happy riding!
Hello Nate,
This is a very organized and helpful review. I’m new to snowboarding, and just got my first board (Rossignol Fernemy Size 144) because of its high rating. But I saw some posts saying it’s not a very beginner-friendly board, so i’m hesitating about returning and replacing it with a K2 First Lite board which is on your list. What would be your suggestion?
Also, i’m a bit confused about the sizing for these boards. The Rossignal Fernemy only provides size 144 or above, but its length looks very similar to the K2 First Lite sizing 142. The only difference i saw between them is the width. I’m 160cm, 50kgs, and i’m assuming the right board size for me should be around 142 based on the size chart.
Can you provide me with some advice?
Best,
Charlotte
Hi Charlotte
Thanks for your message.
The Frenemy certainly isn’t a pure beginner board. But it’s not far off. I would say it’s a low-intermediate and up kind of board.
However, size-wise I think the 144 is too big for you. For your specs, something around 142 as a more advanced rider would be a good length, but as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off 3-5cm. So I would actually be looking at a range of 137-139 for you, ideally. So, depending on how close you feel you are to intermediate, the Frenemy might have worked OK, but in that size (which will make it more difficult to ride), I would personally choose something else.
For the First Lite, the 138 would actually be the better size, IMO. 142 doable, but 138 would be better, I would say. If you could also let me know your boot size though, to make sure it’s a suitable width. Width is also an important factor in sizing.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! While keep waiting for my Gnu Chromatic also would like to ask about Never summer Shade. What can you say about this board? Is it beginner friendly or not?
Thanks a lot 🙂
Hi Elena
The Shade is a very easy going board – and definitely beginner friendly, IMO. Only reason it didn’t make this list really was price – at a better price it would likely have made this list.
Hi Nate! Thanks a lot for the explanation. Yes, the price bites 🙂
Am I right that Shade is more freestyle board? How it will go for all-mountain riding?
Hi Elena
Yeah it’s a freestyle oriented board for sure. Fine for casual all-mountain riding though. If you were to try to really bomb it down the hill or try some really deep carves on it, you might find it wanting, but for casual all-mountain riding it’s fine. Not terrible in powder – there’s a good bit of rocker in the profile. And if you set the bindings back for powder days that would help, but not an out and out powder board by any means. For more details, you could check out my review of the Never Summer Dipstick at the link below (the Dipstick is the men’s equivalent of the Shade – essentially the same boards, but different sizes/graphics):
>>Never Summer Dipstick Review
Hi Nate,
If you don’t mind I would like to hear your advice on board length for my wife. She wants to buy the Burton Hideaway.
My wife would like to try snowboarding for her first time in this coming season. She ski for a couple of seasons but broke her ACL 2 years ago, she now wants to give snowboarding a try.
She weights 52kg, 170cm tall. She will be wearing a US 8 Burton Photon (Step On) boot, but somehow for regular shoe she normally wears US 6.5. Thank you!
Forgot to mention the Burton Hideaway comes in lengths of 140, 144, 148, 152, 155 fyi. Thanks!
Hi Johnny
Thanks for your message.
For your wife’s specs I would say something around 145, 146 as an all-mountain size at an advanced level. Taking off 3-5cm would put her somewhere around 141-143. 140 or 144 would certainly work, but I would be leaning towards 140 for your wide, particularly given that she’s brand new to the sport.
Hope this helps
PS: Any reason why she is in Men’s step on boots? Or did you mean the Felix Step On?
Hi Nate,
Yes I meant women Felix US 8 Burton boot, my bad. Thank you very much for your advice. Good one!!
Hi Johnny
Thought so – all the names can get very confusing! And you’re very welcome. Happy riding!
Hi Nate!
Thank you very much for the recommendations!
I think I will go with 143 GNU Chromatic and Union Rosa bindings. But also would like to ask about Flux Gu bindings too.
What should I pick with Chromatic board?
Sincerely,
Elena
Hi Elena
Both the Rosa and GU would be a good match for the Chromatic, IMO. Probably the biggest thing to choose between them, is that the Rosa will provide more shock absorption than the GU, but the GU will have better response than the Rosa.
Hi Nate!
And can you advise about bindings size? Right now can’t decide between Rosa and Gu. So, if you can give recommendations for both will be great. I’m riding in Burton Coco boots now in US 7,5 size. I should go with M Rosa?And what for the Gu? XS or S?
Thanks a lot! 🙂
Hi Elena
Yes the M Rosa would be the best size for the Rosa. For the GU, the S would be your best size, for sure.
Hi Nate! Thanks a lot foe you recommendations. But I have another question. I changed my boots to Burton Limelight in 8 size ’cause my Coco in 7,5 became to tight for me 🙁 . And I’m already ordered a Gnu chromatic in 143. Will it be OK? Or while my order in process I should change a board size? Thanks a lot!
Hi Elena
No I wouldn’t change the size of the board. It’s easily still wide enough for 8s, IMO. And the Limelight are still a good match flex-wise to the Chromatic too.
Hi Nate!
Like you reviews very much.
Also need help cause I can’t decide between Burton Hideaway and GNU Chromatic. After rehabilitation I go into snowboarding again and used Burton Stylus board in 142 cm. Now I want a forgiving board on which I could progress. And what board size will you recommend if my height is 162 cm?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Elena
Thanks for your message.
If you could also let me know your weight and boot size. Height is one factor but weight and boot size are more important for snowboard sizing. If you’re not comfortable posting those things here, let me know and I’ll let you know how you can send me a private message.
Between the Hideaway and the Chromatic, it would depend on what you’re looking for. They are both really good beginner options. I would say the Chromatic is a little looser feeling, but a little more versatile. The Hideaway is a freeride oriented board – if you were looking to just learn how to ride and maybe try some powder in the future, then this would be a good option. If you were thinking you might want to keep your options open to learn to ride switch and more freestyle stuff, as well as just general riding, then the Chromatic would be the better option.
Note that the 2021 Chromatic is a little different. It’s got a bit of setback stance, so will be a little better for powder than the 2020 model and not quite as good for riding switch as the 2020 model.
Hope this helps
Thank you very much for the answer! That’s no problem my weight is 58 kg and boot size is 7,5 (23 cm).
I think that I want to learn how to ride good and try freeride in future. But also want to keep mind open to switch. Maybe something like all-mountain. So, the 2021 Chromatic and 2021 Hideaway are both will be good in powder?
Hi Elena
The 2021 Chromatic will be better in powder than the previous versions, but still not as good as the Hideaway, but it will certainly be good enough, IMO. Especially as you’re probably not going to be riding in waist deep powder any time soon, right? So, you’re not going to notice that much difference in that sense at this point. So, I would probably lean towards the Chromatic for you, since it’s going to be easier to ride switch.
Size-wise, I would go for the 143. I think that would be a good length and width for your specs, ability level and desired riding style. There’s an argument you could go to the 146, but I think 143 would be your best bet.
Hi Nate! Thanks a lot.
Oh, no deep powder soon, unfortunately. 😔And Chromatic will be better on wet and icy snow? And what bindings will work well? Union Rosa?
Hi Elena
Yes in my opinion Chromatic will be better in icy snow. Union Rosa definitely a good match, IMO. If you want to check out more options see:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
But as you’ll see, the Rosa is in there and will work well with the Chromatic, IMO.
Hi Nate!
Thank you for this top, I will go with Nitro Lectra, but I’m not very sure about the specs, so I will ask for your help. Some words about me:
– I’ve been snowboarding for 4 years, you can say that I’m beginner to intermediate by now, but I don’t feel like I’m very confident on my moves (I panic when I catch some speed and I can barely control the board to rectify the position), and this is why I will choose a beginner board.
– I am 55-56kg weight and 171-172cm height
– I have a pair of boots Burton Mint 8.5US for girls
I always rented boards from 149 to 152cm.. can this be the reason why I am still not very confident? Were they too long/heavy for me?
Thanks,
Anca
Hi Anca
As per my response here I think the 146 is your best bet for the Lectra, and that yeah, I think you’ve been riding a little bit too long. For more details, please see my response on the other post.
I ride just 1 week out of the season, keep to greens and blues, I have done blue black at Mammoth recently. I am having the hardest time finding a women’s petite board. I currently ride 144cm board for 3 seasons now, but realize it is way too big for me. I am an adult woman weighing in at 110lbs standing 4ft 9inches tall. I really want to progress and keep up with my family. I think I haven’t yet because my board has been too big for me. Any recommendations on boards? Based on my research I should be riding around 130cm. I would love a board that could do it all, groomers, powder, trees, and some playfulness so I could work on my butters and 360. Please Help!!!
Hi Tiffany
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would say something around 135 would be a good size at a more advanced level, but it sounds like you’re probably more at intermediate level, if I have that right? In which case, I’d probably look in the range 132-134. So, IMO, 144 is too long, as you suspect.
The shortest women’s boards tend to be no more than 136cm. If you wanted you could probably get away with 136, given that you’re used to riding a 144, if you really wanted to go for a women’s board. Otherwise, there are plenty of suitable options for kids boards in that size.
If you could also let me know your boot size, which is also really important when sizing a board. Once I have your boot size, I would be happy to look for some suitable options for you in that size range (or if you’d prefer to go for a 136 women’s board, I can let you know the options there too).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Thanks for all the great information. I am looking to purchase a board and wanted your input:
I am around 135lbs, 5’1″, and boot size 6.5 (I wear the Burton Mint BOA). I am a beginner and still learning how to link my turns. I live in MA so I ride mostly in hard/icy conditions. I am looking for a board that is extremely forgiving and catch free, and can provide me with tons of stability. FYI I’m super scared of heights and get anxious with steep trails (even greens) so I really need a board that will help build my confidence so I can keep progressing.
Could you give me your feedback on board sizing and which boards would be best based on the above?
Thank you so much!!!
Hi Giovana
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would say something around 140-142 for your specs as a beginner – and getting a good mix of stability and ease of turning (which is also helped by the design of the board, but size matters too).
For something fitting that criteria, and good in icy conditions, I would be looking at:
– YES Emoticon 143 (just outside that 140-142 range but would still work)
– Nitro Lectra 142
– Rossignol Meraki 140 (would have been number 11 on this list – and in terms of being forgiving and catch-free it’s as good and it’s great for icy conditions).
Hope this helps
Very helpful, thank you- I went with the Nitro Lectra 142cm 🙂
Quick question… I decided to go for Union Rosa bindings (model 2020). I checked your bindings size article as well as Union’s website/size chart and I am not sure which size I should get. Based on Union’s chart, I could get either a S or M. My boot size is women’s 6.5, or 23.5 (and I have the Burton Mint Boa boots). Which size would you recommend? I am leaning towards Medium given that is what is most available, but would appreciate your feedback!
Thank you so much!
Hi Giovana
Awesome that you’ve chosen your board! Hope it treats you well.
In terms of sizing for the Rosa’s, I think you’ll be good in either size in terms of your boots. You would get a snugger fit in the S, I would say, but I don’t think you would be swimming in the M. The advantage of going M, is that the base plate will be a little longer which will give you more leverage to the edges of the board. I don’t think the M would be too long for the width of the Lectra 142, so it’s an option for sure. So, I think it depends on whether you prefer the idea of a snugger fit or a bit more in terms of leverage on the edges of the board. Both will be relatively subtle differences.
Hey Nate,
Thank you so much for you review! I am a beginner at snowboarding, went twice to Austria for some snowboarding but I still find it very hard especially with my toe turns and when its flat.
So I am looking at 2 boards but I find it hard to choose which one, I am thinking of the Rossignol Gala or the Burton Stylus, what would you recommend? and as well what length would you go for? I am 5’2 (160 cm) and between the 68-70 kg.
Forget to mention my boot size is a 4 🙂
Sorry thats EU size 37 ( uk: 4) My snowboard boots are size EU 38 (Uk:5)
Hi Janice
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, for those boards, I would be looking at a range between 144-146. So for the Gala, that would be the 146 for the Gala.
It would be between the 142 or 147 for the Stylus. Since the Stylus is a more freestyle oriented board, I would be leaning towards the 142, just because if you were to get into freestyle riding later on, and kept it as your dedicated freestyle board, that would be the best size. However, you could go 147 if you wanted that longer length. The 142 would be an easier board to maneuver. It’s also a better width for your boot size, IMO.
Between the two boards, they are both really good as beginner boards. The Gala is a little more versatile, in terms of if you were to branch out into riding powder at some stage and is still good for riding freestyle. But both are fine as boards to learn the basics on – and for just cruising the groomers.
Size-wise, I would be leaning towards the Gala. I think it’s a slightly better size for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate, thanks a lot for your reply 😀
You’re very welcome Janice. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
Great post! Happy that some of the models you’re suggesting are on sale where I’m from.
I’m a beginner, I’ve had around 8 snowboarding trips throughout the years but still not quite there yet. I can turn on green runs, but when I’m on intermediate slopes (I guess 20 deg+) I have a hard time turning with confidence.
I was looking at the Gala but I’m 5’1 and their shortest is 142. When I rent I notice they give me anywhere from 136 to 140.
Should I stick to other models and prioritize board length?
The other boards I’m looking at are Salomon Subject, Salomon Oh Yeah, Burton Hideaway, Ride Rapture, Rossignol Myth.
Hope you can help me out!
Hi Angelica
Thanks for your message.
As all of these boards work well as beginner boards (though I can’t really comment on the Salomon Subject as it’s not a board I’m familiar with), I would go with the best size for you. Size is a really important part of choosing the best board for you. In terms of size, if you could also let me know your weight and boot size, then I could recommend what I think would be the best size for you. Whilst I like to take height into account, weight and boot size are the most important sizing factors.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m a beginner and looking at the Ride compact, Ride heartbreaker or Arbor Poparazzi Rocker. I’m a little picky about graphics too. These seem to fit my taste. I’m looking for something I can grow into and use year after year as I get better. I’ve been using a 138 burton rental. I’m 5’4″ 128 lbs size 8 boot. Which board would you recommend and what size?
Hi JD
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Heartbreaker would be the easiest to ride/progress on, but will be less suitable as you get better. The Poparazzi will be the board that will be a better fit for progressing with you as you get better. The Compact better than the Heartbreaker for later too, so I would be debating between the Compact & Poparazzi, leaning slightly towards the Poparazzi.
Size-wise, I would go a little longer than the 138 you’ve been riding. I would say something between 141-143 would be a good range to look at for you, as a beginner.
So for the Compact, I would say 142 and if you went Poparrazi Rocker, then the 141. You could go up to 144 on the Poparazzi rocker too, if you really wanted it to be more geared towards when you’re a better rider. However, that would make it a steeper learning curve.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you so much! I’ve been hearing mixed things from various places, so this is truly helpful. I really am leaning towards the Ride Compact but I was told the camber profile would take a little getting used to, but since I’m learning anyway, it doesn’t seem to be that big of an issue for me. I really like the poparazzi rocker but that “squirrely feel” makes me a little nervous. Thanks again!
You’re very welcome JD. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you go with and how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow.
I’m torn between the Salomon Lotus and the Rossignol Gala, I’m a beginner linking turns and starting to get into finding my style of riding.
I currently ride a Morrow Wildflower that’s 10 years old and feels like a 2×4 under my feet. I want something with more flex and easy ride feel so I can work on more effortless relaxed carving.
I also want my next board to last me a long time through intermediate. I live on the East Coast so icy conditions are common. Between the Lotus and the Gala, which would you suggest for what I’m looking for?
Hi Juliet
Thanks for your message. Given that you want something that will last through intermediate and you’re a high-end beginner (if I have that right), then I would also look into the following:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
And since you’re looking for something good in icy conditions, and want a flexier option, I would look at something like the YES Emoticon, Lib Tech Glider, Endeavor Ranger or Never Summer Infinity. Or you could go for something like the GNU Gloss too.
If it’s just a choice between the Lotus and Gala though, then I would be leaning towards the Lotus, just because there’s a bit more in terms of edge-hold of hard/icy conditions there. Not as easy as a pure beginner board as the Gala, but something I’m sure you would have no trouble with, if you’re a higher end beginner.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I’m a beginner and looking to purchase my first snowboard. I’m 5’6 120lbs with size 9 boots. I was thinking about getting the Rossignol Gala, but not sure if I should get the 142 or 146. Also I’m worried about the width. Which size would be best for me? Or do you think I should consider another board due to my boot size? If so, which would you recommend for someone extremely new looking to build confidence?
Hi Kelsey
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, I would go 142 for your specs, as a beginner. But like you say, the biggest concern there is the width. I think you’d likely get away with it, if you’re riding +15/-15 angles. It’s on the narrower side of your range, but as a beginner you won’t be getting really high on your edges, like really aggressively carving or anything, which is when the greatest risk for boot drag is.
That said, if you’re really worried about that, then something like the following would give you more leeway width-wise, but still be a very good, easy going board to progress on:
– Burton Stylus 142 (241mm waist width)
– YES Emoticon 143 (237mm waist width)
– Burton Hideaway 144 (237mm waist width)
Generally speaking something around 141-143 length-wise is a good bet. A lot of boards in that range are similar or even narrower than the Gala, but these are some that are a little wider. But yeah, I’d say you’d get away with the Gala width-wise, but there it is on the narrow side for 9s for sure.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi, I’m a beginner snowboarder. Currently I have an old used Burton Blunt, which I guess is too stiff for me (I’ve used this board for almost 2 seasons). This year I’m ready to invest in a new board and improve a lot, but I’m completely lost what board to get. I can’t choose between Burton Stylus, Capita Space Metal Fantasy and Salomon Oh Yeah. I want a board for a few seasons. I’m 169cm and 59kg. My board at the moment is 147. I would be very glad to get some advice what to get.
Thanks,
Viktorija
Hi Viktorija
Thanks for your message.
Firstly in terms of length, I don’t think you’re too far off at around 147. I would say ideally, though, as a beginner with a little bit of riding time under their belt, that something around 144 to 146 would be your best bet.
The Stylus, Space Metal Fantasy and Oh Yeah are all really good beginner board options. Keep in mind that they are all quite freestyle focused. But that doesn’t mean you have to ride any kind of freestyle on them, but just for future reference when you become more advanced. But great options for progressing quickly on.
I think the Space Metal Fantasy in the 145 would be the best size for you. The Stylus you’d probably want to go 147 and the Oh Yeah either 143 or 147.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate!
Thanks for leaving the review, it was super helpful! Just curious, did you consider the Rossignol Meraki for this list? I’m torn between the Gala and Meraki but have heard great things about both, so was wondering if it just didn’t make the list for you and if so, why.
Thanks again!
Hi Pauline
Thanks for your message.
The Meraki actually made the list last season. The only reason it didn’t make the list this year is because it went up in price a little bit. That reduced it’s price points. But otherwise still a very good beginner option (and was only one place out from making the list again). So, if it’s within your budget, still a very good beginner board option.
Hi Nate,
I have only snowboarded once before, looking to buy the nitro lectra. I am 174cm and about 65-70Kg. Would I get the 146cm or 149cm size board?
Thanks!
Hi Emma
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, as a beginner, I would go for the 149.
Hope this helps
HI,
I am searching for a beginning board for my daughter. She has been a couple of times and loves it. We live in the south and tend to go in the eastern areas. Which can have a lot of ice at times. She is around 140 lbs, 5’4, and wears a size 10 shoe. I have been confused on which board to purchase her. She will also need boots and bindings. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. She is 19 and athletic so she picks things up easy. Thank you for your time.
Hi Janet
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, I would be looking at something around 145-147 for your daughter.
Width-wise, assuming she ends up in size 10 boots, I would say around 243mm to 252mm in terms of waist width.
The width factor will make some of the boards on this list too narrow, but the following would be a good option:
-Burton Stylus 147 (though not the best in icy conditions)
And a couple of options not on this list:
– Lib Tech Glider 147
– Salomon Lotus 146
Or if you think she has/is going to progress really quickly, then you could also check out:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
The Salomon Rumble Fish 148 is the only one I can see that would be in the width range though.
Another option, if she was open to it, is to check out some men’s options. Some options come in shorter sizes, but will be wider. If none of the above work for you, then let me know if she’s open to look at men’s boards, and I can provide some options.
Hope this helps with your search
Hi! I’m looking to get my first board this year, I seem to be between beginner and intermediate so I’m quite confused as to which board i should get. I have been on a board about 4 times now, mainly go in the French alps, but it’s always been with rental boards so far. I can come down a blue or red quite easily by now.
I’m 173cm, 60kg and wear a UK5 boot. I’ve got Salomon pearl 19 boots.
I’m looking for something that won’t break the bank and what I’ll be able to use for some years to come. I think I prefer a softer board but i love to ride powder more than the hard tracks.
I’ve been looking at salomon gypsy, K2 bright lite, nitro lectra so far.
Just looking for a recommendation for the size as well as the bindings to go with.
Thanks!
Hi Rey
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, I think something 146 to 148 would be a good range to look at for your specs/ability/preferences.
Since you’re looking to ride the powder a bit, I would be leaning towards the Lectra and Bright Lite out of those 3, just because the Salomon Gypsy is a centered true twin, so it won’t float as well in powder – particularly if you start getting in deeper powder.
You could also check out the following list for more options for that high-end beginner, low-end intermediate kind of range:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
The Never Summer Infinity could be a good match – something that’s still quite soft, but also quite good in powder. But certainly the Lectra and Bright Lite still good options too.
In terms of bindings. If you’re going to go with a board around that 3/10, 4/10 flex range, then bindings around a similar flex is a good idea. I would check out the following:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Even though that second list is titled “freestyle” – you don’t have to ride freestyle with them, that’s just the name I’ve given it as bindings in that flex range tend to be good for freestyle – but also good for beginner/intermediate riders and generally matching with softer flexing boards.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for such a quick response!
This helped a lot, especially te sizing. So far I’ve only been on boards 150+ i think, so I’m curious to see how big of a difference a smaller board would make.
Found a really good deal on nitro lectra so I think I will be going for that. Unless you think the Rossignol Gala could also work for what I’m looking for?
Thanks so much!
Hi Rey
I think the Lectra would be a good choice and if you can get a good deal on an appropriate size, then that’s a good way to go. The Gala would also work for what you’re describing, so also a good choice. I would say that the Lectra is slightly better in harder conditions vs the gala, in case you need a tie breaker.
Hey Nate!
Thanks so much for this very helpful review! My sister directed me to your page since you helped her in ultimately choosing her Rossignol Gala board last year that she loves!
I’d love your advice on what board I should get. I’d consider myself a progressing beginner. Have gone snowboarding about twice a season (usually in Utah and Colorado) for the last 2 years and loved it — figured it was time to get myself my first board! 🙂 I live in Boston now and bought my first epic pass this season! I definitely plan to take advantage of all the nearby NE resorts but also plan to go back to UT/CO this season as well. I’m around 5’7″, not sure what my snowboard boots are (honestly forgot what I used to rent and need to buy some soon) — prob around US women size 7.
I’m currently looking at the Rossi Gala 146 since my sister loves hers. Also interested in the GNU B-Nice Asym BTX 145. Love to hear your thoughts on the two? thank you!!!
Hi Bonny
Thanks for your message.
Both of those boards would be great options as a beginner. I would be leaning towards the B-Nice Asym, just because it handles hard/icy conditions better, which you’re likely to get in New England right? – that or the GNU Chromatic. The YES Emoticon is another option that works well in hard/icy conditions and another great beginner option. Maybe slightly more advanced (but still very much beginner) than the Gala/B-Nice but since you’ve had a few days, I don’t think it would be a problem.
Size-wise, weight has more to do with sizing than height these days. Height comes into it, but weight and boot size are more important. If you can let me know your weight, then I can more accurately recommend the correct size.
Thanks so much for the fast reply!!
I’m around 135- 140 lbs. And yes — will see more hard/icy conditions this year. But I’m only planning to stay in the northeast for 1 year and after that, will likely be going more to Utah, Colorado, California and Canadian locations. So I’d definitely want a board that would be great in those less icy places as well! Last year I was very comfortable riding green and occasionally some blues. How is the Solomon Lotus? I’m pretty sure that I’ve rented that board before. Was trying to read all about camber and rocker to see what I would need — but got super confused haha!
Could I ask you also about board sizing recommendation for my husband. He’s a way better snowboarder than me. Is comfortable with blues. He’s weighs around 160-165 lb and boot size 10.
Thank you!!!!
Hi Bonny
The Lotus is a good beginner option. The only thing that makes me hesitate a little on it, is that it has flat camber sections towards tip and tail rather than rockered sections. Typically rocker in that area makes a board more catch-free. The flat sections will be better than having camber there, but not as good as having rocker. In terms of riding in non-icy conditions the likes of the Emoticon and B Nice will perform fine in those places too – they’re just a little better when it comes to hard/icy conditions.
Size-wise, I would say go for something around 147 to 149 for you. So for the boards mentioned, I would go with:
Gala:146 (I’d err on the shorter rather than longer side of that range, but the 150 would be doable too)
Emoticon: 149
B Nice: 148
Lotus: 146
For your husband. Can you let me know his height. Sorry, I know I just mentioned that weight and boot size are the most important, but I do like to take height into account as well.
Thanks Nate!!!
I just bought my snowboard boot and I’m a US size 7.5. Would those sizes for the boards be appropriate for my boot size?
He’s 5’7.5”
Thanks again Nate!!!
Hi Bonny
You’re very welcome.
All those widths should be fine for your boots, I would say. Certainly they’re all wide enough. The width on the Lotus might just be getting on the slightly too wide side of things. Doable, but wider than ideal, IMO.
For your husband, I would say something around 155, 156 would be a good range to look at.
Hi Nate!
First of all, thank you for all the information you’ve posted online!. Both interesting and helpful!.
I’m considering buying my first snowboard. I rode for 4 years, then gave up for the sake of motherhood and this year returned to the snow with my son!. So I figure it’s time to have my own snowboard. I don’t consider myself a begginer, but I’m not a solid intermediate either. I’ve learnt with rental gear (mainly men’s gear) therefore I’m quite sure that having my own board will help me progress.
I find 3 boards very interesting: rosignol’s frenemy, burton’s yesayer and jones’s dream catcher. I want an all mountain board as I don’t do park, and also want to enjoy and have fun, being able to ride in most conditions and terrains.
I’m also not very sure about which size I should get. I’m 168 cm tall and wieght between 54-58 kg. I usually ride 145 boards, but perhaps a longer one will work better for me.
I would really appreciate it if you could give me your thoughts.
Thanks so much,
Kind regards.
Vanina
Hi Vanina
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of length, I wouldn’t go too much longer than 145. For your specs, at an advanced level, for an all-mountain board, I would say around 147, but as a high-end beginner/low intermediate, as it sounds about where you are, you could certainly take some length off that. And if you don’t intend to be riding fast/aggressive, then there’s not much advantage to going longer. That plus if you will be riding with your son, it might be beneficial, at least to begin with, to go shorter rather than longer. Shorter boards are easier to maneuver at slower speeds. The big advantages of going longer – more stability at speed and more float in powder. If those aren’t big things, then I would be thinking a little shorter rather than longer. So around that 143-145 range sounds like it would suit you well. But if I have your desired riding style wrong, then this could be adjusted of course.
Getting your own gear will certainly help you to get better, faster, than hiring gear, so good call there. A few things about the boards you’ve listed.
The Frenemy would be a good option, IMO, and the 144 a good size. It’s not a beginner board, but a good board for a high-end beginner/low intermediate looking to progress and will still be a board that you can ride and enjoy as a more advanced rider.
The Dream Catcher is, IMO, just that little bit above, in terms of ability. I would say it’s something that’s better if you’re already at a solid intermediate level. It’s not stretching way too far, but just stretching slightly further than ideal, IMO. If you were to go for it, then the 145 would be a good bet. This is the kind of board that can be ridden a little longer, so 148 isn’t out of the equation either but I would be leaning towards 145 if you went with this, partly because it’s a little more advanced, and going shorter will make it easier to manage.
The Yeasayer (I’m assuming you’re talking about the Flat Top version (it also comes in a flying V) looks like a good option on paper. It’s not something that I’ve ridden an equivalent men’s version of exactly, but I think it would work well as an intermediate/just under intermediate option. I hired someone to test women’s snowboards in the winter, and she did get on the Yeasayer. She thought it was a little stiffer flexing than it’s rated and what she was expecting and not quite as nimble at slow speeds as she was expecting, but found that it performed really well in uneven terrain and crud. However, she did mention at times it felt a little catchy. Which surprised me, as the specs don’t suggest that, but wanted to mention that so you have all the info available.
For more options check out the following, which I created specifically for those at that high-end beginner going on intermediate kind of level (you’ll see the Frenemy in there):
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate!
Thanks so much for all the amazing feedback and for taking the time to answer my questions thoroughly!!.
I agree the dream catcher may be a little out of my league, but the challenge is what made me look at this board. I wouldn’t define myself as an aggressive rider, but I do enjoy catching speed. What I want is to be more in control and feel more confident in these cases, specially in uneven terrain.
On the other hand, I believe the frenemy to be more playful and perhaps better for me at this stage.
The yesayer was my weakest option, and after your input I can cross it out.
I will be traveling to the US on December, so I still have time to make up my mind.
One last question, whether I choose the dream catcher or the frenemy, do you think that Burton’s Scribe bindings can work for any of these boards?.
Again, thanks so much!
Kind regards,
Vanina
You’re very welcome Vanina.
Yeah the Scribe would be a good match for these boards, IMO. Probably the best match with the Frenemy, but would certainly work with the Dream Catcher too. The only thing to watch out for is to make sure you get the Re:Flex version of the Scribe and not the EST version (the EST is only designed to fit on Burton boards).
Thaks so much! You’ve helped me a whole lot!
Kind regards from Argentina.
Hi Nate,
Great article and reviews!
I’m a beginner (ride only green paths and still fall at least once when connecting turns). I’m 5’1, 110 lbs and 5.5 boot size. Could you give me advice on what kind of board I should get from your list and what size it should be? I’d really appreciate it!
Hi Julia
Thanks for your message.
I would look at the GNU B-Nice Asym 139 and the Roxy Sugar Banana 138. They are both good beginner boards, and would be a good size for you.
For your specs, I would say no longer than 139 as a beginner – and with size 5.5 boots, most boards are too wide to be ideal, without going into kids boards. These two are narrower widths, which are much more suitable for your boot size than most women’s boards. So, yeah, I’d go with one of those, unless you wanted to look into kids boards.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Do you think Nidecker Angel Snowboard (139cm) will work or is it too flex for beginners? I also found K2 Kandi Girls Snowboard (137cm) and Rossignol Myth (139cm) on sale, so was wondering if they are a good choice? Thank you!
Hi Julia
I don’t test Nidecker gear, so I’m not sure if the 5/10 flex rating the Angel gets is accurate or not. But if it is, I’d say just a bit stiff for a beginner. And the width is on the wide side for your boots too, so the combination of those 2 things, and it’s not as good an option, IMO.
The Myth is a very good beginner board and the size isn’t too far off – so I’d say that’s a doable option, but on the bigger size with combination of length and width to be ideal size-wise.
The K2 Kandi would be a great size for you, IMO. And likely to be a very easy board to get started on. The only thing to think about is whether it’s something that could be a little too easy once you start to progress. But if that’s not a concern for you, then that would be a great option.
Hi Nate,
I bought Roxy Sugar Banana 138, Burton Citizen bindings size S, and thirtytwo Shifty Boa boots size 5.5. Thank you so much for your advice and helpful articles!
You’re very welcome Julia. Awesome that you have your setup sorted. Now just gotta wait for the snow!
Hi Nate,
My wife Recently bought the new Rosignol Gala snowboard. She is 5’2 and weighs 119 lbs and bought a 142cm board. She is a bit past a beginner but still picking up the ropes. She is now worried that the board will be too short for her weight and if she should return it for a 146cm board. Any advice you could shed would be greatly appreciated.
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
In my opinion 142 is spot on for your wife. Even potentially on the longer side as a beginner, but spot on for when she’s at a more advanced level – and should be fine for now too – especially since she’s already a bit past beginner. Rossignol’s weight recommendations are notoriously on the light side, IMO, so I wouldn’t be too worried about their weight guidelines. I would personally stick with the 142 for her.
Hope this helps
Hi all,
I’m a beginner and I really have a hard time deciding between buying either Nitro Lectra 2019 or Bataleon FeelBetter.
I want to get a board that can help me progress easily, that can be catch edge free, help me with my turns and also be enjoyable for when I am an intermediate rider going to advanced.
Need all mountain, versatile, because I do not know what is my style of riding is and I would like for it to allow me to explore many of the riding styles.
Hi Georgina
Thanks for your message.
I don’t test Bataleon gear, so I don’t have any first-hand experience with them, so this is purely based on specs.
At face value, the Feelbetter doesn’t look to be the best beginner’s choice being traditional camber, but looking further into it, with the 3BT and sidekick and very subtle camber, it sounds like it’s probably actually fine in terms of not being catchy. The Nitro Lectra certainly not catchy. The Feelbetter does look to be a good beginner’s choice.
The Lectra is what I would term “all-mountain” and the Feelbetter “all-mountain freestyle” – both versatile types, but the all-mountain perhaps being slightly more versatile. But if you weren’t looking to ride powder any time soon, then that would be the only downside, of going with something like the Feelbetter, IMO.
If you picture yourself riding powder at some point with the board, then I would go Lectra, otherwise, I would go with whichever had the closest to perfect size for you. If you want my opinion on sizing, I would be happy to offer it (also very important to get right) – I would just need your height, weight and boot size (as I already have your ability).
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
My height is 165 cm and I have 54 kg. I was thinking of getting the 146 Nitro Lectra.
Let me know your thoughts.
Thank you,
Georgiana
Forgot about my boot size, I have Burton Mint size 7.
Hi Georgiana
I would say Lectra 142 would be your best bet as a beginner. 146 doable too, but as a beginner the 142 will be an easier board to learn/progress on.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking into purchasing the Rossignol Gala. I’m 5’4″ and 125 lbs. Do you think 150 cm will be too long? Thanks for your help!
Lisa
Hi Lisa
Thanks for your message.
I would say something around 146, 147, at advanced level would be a good length for you. As a beginner, I would suggest 142-144, so for the Gala, I would definitely say that the 150 is too long, IMO. For that board the 146 would be a much better size – and if you’re a beginner, then you could even go 142 for that board.
Hope this helps
Hello! Love this article it’s been so useful! I’ve been snowboarding for 2 seasons now and am finally considering getting my own board. There are so many choices out there that I’m a little overwhelmed by it all. I’ve been using Burton LTRs this whole time (5’2, 100lbs female), what would you recommend? How would you rate the flex on the LTR, is it 2-3/10? I’m inclined to get a softer board but I’ve just been slowly getting onto blues and was wondering if I should get something stiffer?
Hi Mei
Thanks for your message.
I’m not sure about the LTR – it’s not something I’ve had any experience with and it’s hard to find anyone else with a particular flex rating. But judging by what I can find on it, it sounds like it’s very soft – so I would say at most a 2/10 flex. I would imagine that most, if not all on this list will be a little stiffer flexing than the LTR – but that’s just a guess. In any case I probably wouldn’t go any stiffer than 4/10 at this stage, but anything up to 4/10 should be fine. So this list or (sorry to give you more options!) if you want a little more performance, you could look at something here:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
But from what you’re describing, I think something from this list should work well – and will likely be a little step up from the LTR, I would say.
Size-wise, for your specs and ability level, I would be looking at something around 136 ideally. There aren’t a lot of options in that length, without going for a youth board, so you might need to go a little longer (or go with a youth board) but I wouldn’t go longer than 139.
The only board I can think of at the moment in a 136 is the GNU Gloss – but I think that would be great option for you. It’s high-end beginner friendly (which it sounds like you are). It’s 4/10 flex, so it’s likely to feel a good bit stiffer than the LTR I would say, but still not overly stiff by any means. And a good size, IMO. If you could let me know your boot size though – just so that I can make sure it would be a suitable width for you (it’s quite a narrow board in the 136).
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your detailed reviews and explanations. After looking through your board choices I was thinking about getting the Rossignal Gala 142 for my girlfriend, but wanted your thoughts on whether the board would suit her. My girlfriend has been started riding about 2 times a season for the past 3 seasons and now she’s up to the point where she can link her turns comfortably on blue groomers. Each time we’ve gone she has had least one big fall, but on our latest trip I could tell she’s getting much more confident with her turning and hasn’t been falling as much. She get’s a little hesitant on riding the steeper blues but she’ll get through them while always trying to link her turns. She’s been renting the Salomon Liberty and she’s 5’2″ 120 lbs with Nitro Crown TLS size 7 boots.
Would you say that the Rossignol Gala 142 is a good fit for her right now and is it a step up from the Salomon Liberty? I want to buy her a board where she can progress to be able to down blacks with the board. We both got the IKON pass for the upcoming season so I’m wondering if she will outgrow the board too fast.
Also can you comment on the quality of Rossignol boards? Would they be able to last a long time? I think that in the future she will probably ride 4-6 times a season.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Tim
Thanks for your message.
At 4-6 times per season, I don’t think your girlfriend would grow out of the Gala too fast, but if you’re looking at getting something to go beyond a few seasons, then you might think about something a little more performance oriented, especially if you’re looking to get her down blacks. But I certainly wouldn’t go too advanced or it could slow her progression down and hit her confidence. The Gala would be a great choice for now, but if you wanted to get something for the long long-term, I would check out the following – which will last longer progression wise, whilst still being relatively beginner friendly.
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
In terms of durability, I use a Rossignol One LF as my control board for testing, and I’ve done 60+ days on it so far without any issues. A few chips and scratches in the top sheet – which happens with any board, but nothing major. As for every Rossignol board, I couldn’t say, I can only comment on my experience – and my Rossi has held up well so far.
Size-wise, I would look at the range between 138-140 for your girlfriends specs, as a beginner. Could probably get away with the Gala in the 142, since it’s a super easy going board, but I wouldn’t go any longer than that. And if you go for something else, I’d stick to a 139-141 range.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
You got some really good answers so here is my question. My 12 yo daughter started snowboarding 3 years ago. We are in Illinois so we only get to go a half dozen times a year and it can be mostly ice. I got her a Burton Chopper 120cm then and it’s been great, but I think she is ready to graduate. After reading your comments I am leaning toward the Emoticon, Frenemy or the Meraki with Burton Citizen bindings. She is 5’0, 110 lbs and has Burton Mint size 8 boots. She carves nice slow large curves and can go down any hill around here comfortably. She’ll obviously continue to grow and I want a Board to last her at least 3 years and I think she is ready for a trip west next winter. What length and any specific recommendations would you have? Thanks in advance.
Hi Jason
Thanks for your message. Usually I would say something around 138, 139 would be a good length to go with at this stage. Which would put the Emoticon (shortest size 143) and Frenemy (shortest size 144) out. The Meraki 140 would be the closest of those. But since she is growing still she’ll likely be well suited to something around 143, 144 (depending on how quickly she grows) within a year or two.
For right now, the Meraki 140 would be the best bet, and would still be fine for 3 years I’d say, but maybe less suitable then, but more suitable now. The other two less suitable now and more suitable down the line (and probably for considerably more than 3 years at a guess). But I’m not sure how fast 12 yo’s typically grow, so I’m only guessing there.
The only thing would be with something like the Frenemy is that you would not only be adding 24cm to what she’s used to, you’re also adding quite a lot of stiffness in comparison. That could be a big change all at once. Going with the Meraki would certainly make for a smaller change to get used to. The Emoticon is a little softer than the Frenemy, so whilst it will also be a big change, with being 23cm longer and still stiffer, it won’t be as big a change, since it’s softer than the Frenemy. The Meraki is the softest, and (in the 140) the shortest – so would be the easier adjustment.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi there Nate!
You probably have answered this question in the multitude of questions above but it was taking me a while to scroll through and find an answer haha.
I’ve been snowboarding several times and would say I’m beginner-intermediate. I can carve but still slow myself down when I tend to speed up. I also am starting to play with jumps. I guess I would look towards a playful ride vs. an aggressive one.
What snowboard would you recommend? Also I’m 5’7 and am athletically build at around 150lbs.
On top of this question do you recommend any women’s boots for wide feet? My feet are size 9 1/2.
Thank you!
Hi Alicia
Thanks for your message.
Based on how you describe your riding, I would say that an all-mountain freestyle board would work well. If you look in the first section for each board, there is “style of board”. Look in there for all-mountain-freestyle. Also, since it sounds like you are high-end beginner or low-end intermediate, you could also check out the following, which might be a better fit for you.
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Size-wise, at an advanced level, for an all-mountain board, I would say around 153cm would be a good length to look at. But since you’re at that beginner bordering on all-mountain level, I would size down a bit – also, since you are looking for something more playful sizing down doesn’t hurt either – and for an all-mountain-freestyle I usually size-down a little too. So, I’d look for something more like like 149, 150.
For boots, I’m not sure if this translates to women’s boots as well, but I’m guessing it does, but check out the following:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Wide Snowboard Boots for Wide Feet
Hope this helps
Awesome thanks so much for the reply, helps a lot. As for the boards is there a specific one you might recommend for me from the intermediate ones if I am high end beg. / low end intermediate?
Once again thanks a lot it’s awesome that you respond to each comment 🙂
Hi Alicia
The following would work well, IMO:
– Arbor Poparazzi 150
– GNU Velvet 150
– YES Emoticon 149
– Salomon Rumblefish 148
– Capita Paradise 149
If you’re looking to border more onto the beginner end, then the Emoticon and Poparazzi would be the best options, IMO.
With 9 1/2 boots, though, the Poparazzi might be borderline too narrow, depending on preferred binding angles. So might be risky option in terms of width.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Amazing!!! Thank you 🙂
You’re very welcome Alicia. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you end up getting.
Hello,
I am a beginner to snowboarding, having only been 3 times. I’m 5’2″, 110lbs, size 6US. I was looking to buy the Rossignol Meraki 140 because I saw them on sale, but am afraid it might be too wide for me? Do you think K2 first lite be a good option at 138 or other better reccomendations? Also, what bindings would be appropriate for a beginner?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Emily
Thanks for your message.
I think the Meraki 140 is getting quite wide for your boot size. Without sizing down in terms of length (which can help if a board is too wide), I think it’s a bit too big overall to be ideal.
As a beginner I think something around 136 to 138 would be a better length too. The First Lite is a better length and width for you, IMO.
Some good beginner options below:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
Hope this helps with your decision
Im totally a beginner for snowboarding. My height is 157cm and weight around 53kg or 116lbs. I found a GNU 2CE snowboard 144cm, Salomon 6 piece snowboard 145cm, Salomon villain classic 150cm, Burton genie 138cm and 144cm, Burton sweet tooth flat top 145cm, Burton Hug 142cm japan limited on website.
Which one you recommend me to get for my first board?
Last time, I rent Burton ltr 134cm and it was quite nice for me to start with.
Thank you in advance for your suggestions.
Hi Jao
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would be looking in the range 138 to 140 for your specs. So some of those are going to be too big for you to enjoy, IMO.
Which C2E Gnu board is it? The Gloss will be more beginner friendly, whereas the Velvet not as much. Neither are perfect for beginners. The Chromatic and B Nice from GNU would be better beginner choices. Either way 144 is a little too big, IMO.
The Villain not that beginner friendly either – and 145 is going to be too big for you, IMO. The 6 Piece also way too big – and not super beginner friendly either.
Burton Genie 138 would be a great choice for you, IMO. The 144 too big.
The Sweet Tooth looks to be pretty beginner friendly but 145 too big, IMO.
I’m not familiar with the Burton Hug. A better size at 142, but I’d prefer you on something a little smaller.
So, the Burton Genie 138 is what I would go for if I was you.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Bit of a two-pronged question haha.
I’m having a hard time on my own doing research in terms of what size board to get. I’m 5’0″ and about 145 lbs. What size board do you recommend?
I really like the Nitro Lectra but am also having a hard time finding sizes for it too (any other retailer suggestions??).
Thanks!
forgot to clarify that I’m also a beginner looking to get into snowboarding. thanks!
(sorry to keep on adding replies haha). I haven’t been fitted for boots yet but based on sizing charts, am anticipating between a 6 and 6.5 (my regular size in shoes is a 6.5).
Hi Jessica
Thanks for your messages.
I would say that, at an advanced level, something around 146 would be a good length for you, but as a beginner I would be looking at more in the range 141 to 143. So for the Lectra, I would say the 142 is your best bet. Should be a good size for your boots too. You could also ride the 138 if you really wanted to go shorter (and would still be fine for your boots, IMO, assuming you get in a 6 or 6.5) but that would be getting quite small for your specs, IMO.
The only place I’ve found the 142 is at backcountry (which I think is what’s linked to on the post but I’ve added it again below).
>>Nitro Lectra at backcountry
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the quick reply, Nate! As an aside question, do you personally think the Lectra would still be a good beginner board for me given my height/weight? Or would you recommend a different board that would fit better?
Hi Jessica
I think the Lectra would be a great choice, and 142 is just right for you, as a beginner, IMO.
Hi Nate,
I have been looking at getting a board after feeling more confident this season. I started 3 seasons ago and still have some trouble connecting my turns and on toe side. I am around 5’4″ and usually given a 144 when renting. I was looking at the boards you mentioned above but can be indecisive. I feel like I’ve been getting better, so I want a board that will work well on the intermediate trails as well. I was wondering if you have any specific recommendations or any other board suggestions that aren’t on this list?
Thanks,
Michelle
Hi Michelle
Thanks for your message.
If you feel you’re approaching an intermediate level, also check out:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
But certainly beginner boards can handle intermediate trails too. But if you did want a board that’s high-end beginner and something that would progress with you for a bit longer, then the list at the link above is a good one to check out.
Size-wise, weight and boot size are more important in determining the best sized board for you. If you could let me know those things I would be able to give you a more accurate opinion on size.
Hope this helps
I’m about 115lbs and have size 7 K2 Sapera boots. I’ve rented an Arbor board before, possibly the Poparazzi, and was not really a fan. I think the stiffness of the board is what I wasn’t used to. I was leaning towards boards with a softer flex rating.
Hi Michelle
Size-wise, I would say that something around 144,145 would be a good size for you, as an advanced level rider. But as someone who is at a more beginner level, I would recommend going a little shorter – something around 140 – 142 would be a good range to look at, IMO.
The Poparazzi isn’t an overly stiff board, but might have felt a little stiffer if you were riding a longer size – also I have found Arbor boards to be a little heavier on average, and you might have also been feeling the weight. That said, there are also a number of much softer boards – so if you’re looking to get on something softer, then there are a number of boards on this list that are softer (check out the flex ratings on the boards above – the Poparazzi I rate as 4/10 flex – and there are several on this list that are 2/10 or 3/10.
Also look for the “style of board”. If you feel like you want something that’s all-mountain (do-it-all) then look out for that. If you think you’d like to learn tricks/freestyle in the future, then going with something freestyle would be a good bet (note that to begin with you can ride a freestyle board like normal and learn on it, and when you become more advanced you can use it for freestyle riding). If you don’t think that’s your thing, then something all-mtn or all-mtn-freestyle is a good way to go.
Hope this helps
Thanks! It does help. I’m mostly looking at all-mtn boards. What do you think of the K2 Lime Lite? Also, would you suggest something that is flat or camber? I’m not quite sure of the difference and how it affects riding.
Hi Michelle
I would say that the Lime Lite is more of a park board than an all-mountain board. Certainly relatively beginner friendly, but more freestyle/park oriented than all-mountain. The Bright Lite (and First Lite) is more all-mountain.
Boards with camber tend to have more pop, more spring out of turns, and better edge hold (all else being equal) – and can feel quite aggressive, especially paired up with a stiff core, depending on how pronounced the camber and the length of the camber (i.e. a traditional camber/full camber board has camber that goes all the way to the contact points. A hybrid camber profile has rocker towards the tip and tail – and there heaps of different variations – some with more rocker some less). Really pronounced camber is typically more aggressive and the longer the camber section the more aggressive and the more catchy the ride can feel. But some hybrid camber profiles are great for beginners.
Flat-to-rocker boards are typically more easy going. Less pop and less spring, but less aggressive too, and less catchy (depending on the rocker sections though). All flat boards not typically good for a beginner, but most flat-to-rockers are, assuming a friendly flex. But hybrid cambers that have subtle camber and a reasonable amount of rocker can be just as beginner friendly.
Hi Nate,
I came across your article while browsing the interwebs for snowboards and I am stunned (in a good way) by all of the information you’ve provided. Although I am doing my own research, I don’t trust my own judgement and would very much prefer the input of a professional.
I am 5’0 and fluctuate between 95-100lbs. I am a beginner but I plan to invest a considerable amount of time boarding when the next season comes around. For my last rental, I had a 140cm board and size 6 boots. I thought 140cm was good, but as I was reading through the comments, it might be a tad bit too long for my height/frame. What are some great snowboards for a noobert who is short? If possible, would you be able to recommend decent boots also?
Hi K
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think something closer to 136 would be a better length for you for right now as a beginner. You could go up to around 140cm (depending on style of riding) as a more advanced rider) but for now I would stick to around 136 (maybe up to 138 if you need to). There aren’t a lot of women’s boards options in that size range, but here are a couple that would be suitable – i.e. also beginner friendly.
– GNU Gloss 136 – this would be the best size, IMO, and a great size for your boots too, being narrower. It’s bordering on more of an intermediate rather than beginner board, but still beginner doable, and if you’re going to be spending a lot of time out there next season, it’s something that will keep you going for a good while too.
– Roxy Sugar Banana 138 – a little longer than ideal, but still a really good width for your boot size
– K2 First Lite 138
– K2 Bright Lite 138
– Arbor Ethos 138
– Arbor Poparazzi 138
– GNU B Nice Asym 139 – a little longer than ideal but still an option
Most women’s boards don’t start until 138, 139 (to get shorter, apart from that Gloss, you’d have to go to youth boards).
Check out the following for some good beginner boot options:
>>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots
Hope this helps and gives you some options
Hi Nate,
I apologize for the extremely late response! I am so grateful for all of your input. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! 🙂
You’re very welcome K. Thanks for visiting and using the website!
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the article, it is really helpful. I was wondering if you could give me some advice – I’m female, 30 years old, 109 lbs and super short at 4’11”. I’ve been snowboarding for several years on and off and used rental boards, but I’m still firmly in the beginner category due to not continually working at it, and can sometimes struggle linking turns going down steeper slopes – although I think my progress has been hindered by using unsuitable sized (too short) rental boards, or boards that are better suited for intermediate or advanced riders and not beginners. Do you think the Salomon Oh Yeah 138cm would be a suitable board for me as a beginner?
Thank you!
Hi Andrea
Thanks for your message.
I think 138cm would be a great size for you, and the Oh Yeah is a great board for beginners, so I think it would be a great option for you.
The one thing to consider though, is that the Oh Yeah is a very park/freestyle oriented board. Which is fine to use for general riding as a beginner, but just to know that once you’re more advanced it’s less suitable for all-mountain riding. If you plan to ride the park later, then it’s something you could keep as your park board and upgrade to a better all-mountain option. Or you could always sell it once you’re at a point you feel you need to upgrade. But just wanted to give you the full info there.
But yeah definitely getting your own, beginner suitable board will make a big difference for your progression, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks so much Nate! That definitely helps a lot. While researching my options I noticed some boards are better suited for certain boot sizes, I think due to width? I wear an older version of Zora Head boots, UK 3 (Mondo 225, US 5.5). Do you think the Oh Yeah would still be suitable or should I go for a snowboard with a smaller width? And if so, would you have any recommendations for me please? Thanks so much!
Hi Andrea
Thanks for the extra info. Yeah, ideally with your size boots/feet something narrower would work better. Boards too wide for your feet can feel heavier to turn on.
The following are also great beginner options, in a similar length, but with a narrower width.
– Nitro Lectra 138 (226mm waist)
– GNU B Nice Asym 139 (226mm waist width)
– Roxy Sugar Banana 138 (226mm waist)
– Arbor Ethos 138 (231mm waist)
– Arbor Poparazzi 138 (231mm waist)
– K2 First Lite 138 (232mm waist)
The first 3 would be the best options, IMO, in terms of being the best width – but the others in that list are also doable for you, and are all a good bit narrower than the Oh Yeah.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much, that’s all really helpful, it’s much appreciated!
You’re very welcome Andrea. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you go with in the end.
Hi Nate,
I’ve narrowed it down to either the Nitro Lectra 2019 138cm or the GNU B-Nice Asym 2018 139cm.
I can find both online for similar prices. I’m finding it difficult to choose, and was wondering if I could have your opinion on what you think would be the best one for me please?
Your site is great and very informative – based on your skill level page, I would say I’m a beginner level 3. I like that the Nitro is flat to rocker as I feel like this would help me with stability, but I like that the Gnu has a centred stance and is a true twin shape, as sometimes along cat-tracks I like to ride switch, and I think this would be easier on the Gnu than the Nitro (I think the Nitro is a directional shape – it is impossible to ride switch on these?). Also think the Gnu would be good for edge hold due to the magne-traction, but wondering if the Nitro would still be a better beginner board for me to progress, and I think it has a slightly softer flex. I’ve also riden rockers before, but not sure if I’ve ever riden a hybrid camber board. So I’m really undecided, any input you have would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Andrea
I think both would work fine. But yeah the Lectra a little more stable feeling – probably easier to one foot off the lift. Can certainly still ride switch on it. Not as easy as something that’s centered/true twin, but certainly doable – the Lectra I would say 3.5/5 for riding switch and the B Nice Asym 5/5 for switch.
The B Nice does have magnetraction and is better in hard/icy conditions. If you get those conditions a lot, then it might be worth going B Nice, but if you only get them sporadically, then the Lectra should be fine.
I would say both are fairly soft, but maybe the Lectra just a touch softer, but not much in it, I wouldn’t say.
The Lectra is flat-to-rocker and the B Nice is technically what I would call Hybrid rocker (rocker between the feet and camber towards tip and tail) but the camber is so subtle, that it’s closer to an all-rocker board in feel.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hi Nate,
I have been snowboarding for maybe 10 days in my life (split out over 4 years), and am finally making it down the mountain without falling. I even managed some blues in Whistler, and some easy blacks on small east coast mountains in icy conditions. Now that I started to get the hang of it, I want to invest in my own equipment. I am 5’3 and weigh about 125-130 lb. I have been riding on Burton LTR and some Rossignol boards, forgot which one (both 140). I was looking through your website and am narrowed it down to Rossignol Frenemy and Yes Emoticon. I think in 143, 144 (I know it’s on the small side for my weight), but I am still improving linking turns. The board will be mostly used on icy-hard packed snow. I am not interested in terrain parks or jumps, just cruising down the mountain. Any thoughts, suggestions or recommendations are much appreciated in terms of length and brand/make of board. Also, any recommendations for bindings? I came across a great offer for the Frenemy in 144 with Defiance G1 binding and am tempted. I already own size 7 boots. Thank you!
Hi Sandra
Thanks for your message.
In my opinion those are really good sizes, based on your specs and your experience on a snowboard. I would say generally, going for something 142 to 144 would be a good range to look at based on your specs and described ability level. So, those fit right in there perfectly. And both very good for hard/icy conditions, so both good options.
The Emoticon is a better beginner option, IMO. It’s just a little softer flexing. But the Frenemy is still a decent beginner option – but more ideal for intermediate and up. Since you’ve had 10 days the Frenemy becomes an option, but since they’re spread out over 4 years, I’d probably still be leaning towards Emoticon – and it’s still a board that will be good when you’re at a more advanced level.
In terms of bindings, I’m not familiar with Defiance bindings, so I have no idea with those. I would make sure that the bindings are a suitable size for your boots. As it’s a package with the 144 Frenemy, it’s likely that they are, but I would still double check, if you end up going with that.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks so much for all your help! I am looking to see what deals I can get and make my decisions between either one of these two boards. I think I might be ok on the Frenemy if that’s more available in my size. I want to be ready with my own board for next season! Your site is awesome and has some much useful info on its, thanks again!
Sandra
You’re very welcome Sandra. Hope you can find a good deal!
Hi Nate,
Thank you for this article, it is very helpful! I am (female) 5”6′ and ~105lbs, boot size 8 in burton. I am a beginner, I rode only 3 times and was able to ride green terrains and link turns but sometimes I still fall and my turns aren’t perfect. I was considering getting one of the boards you mention since they are on sale but I am not sure which one and what length I should go with, could you please let me know your opinion?
1. Rossignol Gala (146cm)
2. Burton Genie (147cm)
3. Salomon Lotus (146cm)
4. K2 First Lite (146cm)
Thank you!
Magdalena
Hi Magdalena
Thanks for your message.
Those are a bit long for you, IMO, especially as a beginner. If possible I would be looking more around 140cm for your specs and as a beginner. Certainly no more than 143, IMO.
So, if you have the option, for those boards, I would recommend:
1. Rossignol Gala (142cm)
2. Burton Genie (142cm or even 138cm)
3. Salomon Lotus (142cm or even 138cm)
4. K2 First Lite (142cm or even 138cm)
If you don’t have those sizes as options, I would try to find one of the other options, or another option in a smaller size.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thoughts on Rossi Meraki vs K2 Duchess?
Which would be better for a beginner looking to keep until intermediate level and for icy/hard packed snow?
Hi Thai
Thanks for your message.
I’m not familiar with the Duchess, but based on the specs I could find for it, it looks very much like the First Lite. In terms of performance on hard/icy, I would say that the Meraki is the better choice. The Meraki is very much more freestyle oriented than the Duchess/First Lite, up until an intermediate level, that shouldn’t matter too much. But if you don’t get into riding freestyle, then it’s something you would want to change once you’re no longer a beginner.
Hope this helps
Thanks nate!
Narrowed it down to meraki 140 and frenemy 143
Im 156cm and 115-120lb. Which board would better suit me? What is the difference between the two boards?
Hi Thai
I think the Meraki would be a better choice for a beginner snowboard, to progress as quickly as possible – and a better size for your specs, as a beginner. The Frenemy in 143 would be a good board and size as a more advanced rider – at least intermediate. So the Frenemy would last you a lot longer – could probably ride it as long as you wanted to – would take you all the way to an advanced level, but is going to be a steeper learning curve, and will make progression slower, IMO.
The Meraki, once you’re at a more intermediate level, will be better just as a more freestyle dedicated board.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thank you for all work work you do. This list is a great tool for me. I am 5’4, 180 pounds, and wear a 9.5 shoe. What would be your suggestion for a 33 year young female rider who has only been snowboarding 3 times? The width of the board is the issue I am running into when I look at most sizing charts.
Hi Cheri
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, I would say around 149 to 151.
Width-wise, assuming you’re also in a Women’s US 9.5 boot, you should be able to go as narrow as a 243mm waist width. Depending on other factors you might even get away with a little narrower.
– Burton Stylus in the 152 (244mm waist) or 147 (243mm waist) – (depending if you wanted to go a little on the shorter side or longer side, I know both are outside the range I just mentioned) should be a good width, regardless of binding angles and boot profile (some boots are longer or shorter on the outersole compared to what sized feet they fit on the inside).
– Yes Emoticon 149 (241mm waist) – a little narrower than 243mm at the waist, but should be fine in most scenarios.
And there are a lot more in the length range, that are closer to 240mm that would likely be fine in most scenarios – only if you ride with a very straight back foot (in terms of bining angles which you prob don’t know what your preferred angles are just yet?) – or if you have boots with a longer outersole. So those are likely not the only options.
If you wanted to look at men’s boards too, if that wasn’t an issue for you, then most (probably all) boards in that length range will be wide enough. It would just be a case of not going too wide.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Thanks for this article – it’s so helpful along with all your responses to everyone’s questions. I just had a quick question on which board and size you would recommend for me. I’d say I’m a beginner and can get myself down the easier slopes but have a hard time controlling my speed and am hoping to get better at carving. Also, mostly boarding in the west coast (California area). I’m about 5’8, 125 lbs with a boot size of 8.5. I was choosing between the following boards:
1. Nitro Lectra (149cm) – I was looking into the 146cm after reading your responses on size recommendations for other people my weight, but I don’t think the width on the 146cm is wide enough for my boot size. Would getting a 149cm slow down my progression and would it be wide enough for my boots?
2. Arbor Ethos (147cm) – Is this wide enough for my boot size? How does this compare to the Nitro Lectra?
3. Burton Stylus (147cm) – Is this too beginner? Would I grow out of it too quickly considering it’s a Beginner to Beginner board?
Would also appreciate if you have any other recommendations that would be better suited for me!
Thanks so much!
Hi Rachel
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, as a beginner, I would say go with something 144-146 – since it doesn’t sound like you’re a complete beginner, then 147 should be fine too.
Width-wise, it depends on a couple of things, like binding angles and the profile of the boot (among other things) but I would say you would be fine with anything above 237mm at the waist, regardless of those factors.
For the Lectra, that puts the 146 (234mm waist) slightly below that, but I would say you would be fine – unless you ride with a very straight back foot and have long profile boots. If you can let me know your typical binding angles, if you know them, and the brand and model of your boots, I can more specifically say whether or not that would work. Length-wise I would prefer the 146 for you. The 149 is doable, and would give you that bit more leeway in terms of width, but I think the 146 would be better.
For the Ethos, again that width on the 147 (which I think would be a good length for you) is just below that mark (235.5mm waist) but I think in most scenarios you should be fine.
The Stylus 147 should be perfectly fine width-wise. As far as being too beginner – since you’ve already been riding for a bit and you are looking to get your carving going, it might be something that grow out of quite quickly. It would be great for advancing quickly though.
There are a few differences between the Lectra and the Ethos. A couple of those differences:
1. Lectra is flat to rocker and Ethos is continuous rocker
2. Lectra is directional twin with a bit of a setback stance. Ethos is also directional twin but with a centered stance
And there are other things of course, but not massive differences – the Ethos probably a slightly looser feel, and slightly more freestyle oriented, but for learning the basics, not a lot of difference there.
If you want some other options that are more high-end beginner/intermediate, you could check out the following:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
But I think those options would also work. If you do go for that intermediate list, looking for something in there with a 4/10 flex, is probably your best bet, IMO, if you’re not yet at that intermediate level.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate, thanks for the awesome website! What would you recommend for me? I have been snowboarding a few times but still few like a total beginner. I mostly struggle with getting off the lift and turning the board fast enough. I also have the issue of my heels lifting. I own boots which I think fit well but am looking to get a board and bindings. I am hoping whatever bindings I get will solve the heel lifting issue. I am 5’8” and about 125-135 lbs. My boots are DC Search 2017 size 8. Thank you!!!
Hi Britt
Thanks for your message.
If you’re having issues coming off the lifts, then maybe not the Chromatic, Poparazzi or Ethos as those might feel a little loose coming off the lifts.
Everything else here should be fine.
In terms of heel lift, I would look at potentially getting j-bars for the liner of the boot – or look into something like Strapins to see if you can reduce that heel-lift. Also make sure that your liner is pulled tight enough, and if you’re finding it’s OK at the start of the day but gets worse, then you might need to re-tighten the liner during your session. Bindings might help a little bit but fixing the issue before the bindings come into play is the best way, IMO.
Size-wise for board, I would be looking at the range 145 to 147 for your specs, as a beginner.
In terms of bindings, check out the following for some good beginner options:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
Hope this helps
Thank you! I hadn’t heard of j bars or the strapins so I’ll look into both of those.
one more question — do you think i made a big mistake with the dc search boots? i see now that they’re rated 6 flex. at the time i was just going off of feel in the store and they were the only ones that felt ok. (big heel lift in all the 32s, burtons were uncomfortable on the calf) could the stiffness of the boots make that an impact on learning? thanks!!!
Hi Britt
In reality I would say that the Search are closer to 5/10 flex – and once they’re broken in they’ll likely feel a little softer than that again, so I don’t think it’s a bad call. There are probably slightly better beginner options, but it’s not a bad option – and if they fit well, I think they will be fine. Certainly too stiff can impact learning – but the Search aren’t super stiff, IMO.
Sorry! So many questions (I am so worried I’m going to make a bad choice)! I was all set on the Rossignol Gala but then was reading about the waist width and am worried it’s too narrow at 146 cm / 234 ww for my size 8 boot. What do you think is the smallest ww I can get away with? Thank you!!!
Hi Britt
I think the 146 Gala will be fine for size 8 DC Search boots. It’s on the narrower side for them, but still within range, IMO. And unless you’re going to be railing Eurocarves on it, I don’t think you should have any boot drag issues on it, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for such a great list! I’m so glad I found this thread.
I am in my first season, probably a Level 3 Beginner by your standards – comfortably linking turns on green runs, starting to work on blues. Planning at least a few more trips this season (to Big Bear and Mammoth – we live in SoCal), and to get the Ikon Pass as soon as it goes on sale.
I’m planning to buy my first board, and I would LOVE your advice! I don’t mind upgrading after just a couple seasons, I really want a board that will help me progress quickly. I’m still working primarily on control, especially as I move onto steeper runs, and I think speed will come naturally after. I’d love your general guidance, and I have a sizing question in particular: I’m 5’9”, 150 pounds and wear a size 10.5 boot (women’s). I’ve been looking at the Arbor Ethos, but would that be too narrow? Do I need to be looking at men’s boards, or another board on your list?
Thank you, Nate!!
Hi Katie
Thanks for your message.
Definitely the fastest way to progress in my opinion. Get a good beginner board now, progress quickly, then upgrade after a couple of seasons. So, good idea!
Length-wise, I would be looking in the range 149 to 151.
Width-wise, with women’s 10.5s, I would say you could get away with as narrow as 245mm at the waist, and that could accommodate any angles. And could even go a little narrower if you were going to go with binding angles like +15-15. That’s another advantage of going with a beginners board now, and upgrading. You can afford to go a little narrower, as you won’t be railing your turns yet. For your next board, you would probably want to go for at least 249mm at the waist, if you were going to ride with a straight back foot, and get away with something a little narrower than that depending on binding angles, and depending on how aggressive a rider you become. Anyway, that’s all for later.
Long story short, I think the Arbor Ethos will unfortunately a little too narrow, even as a beginner, and even with a reasonable amount of angle on the back foot.
But you don’t need to go men’s if you don’t want to (though it is an option).
Because of how it sounds like you ride and how you’re looking to progress, I’ve skipped the purely freestyle options, even though they’re fine to learn on in the beginning. I think the following would work well, if you go with a bit of angle on the back binding:
– GNU Chromatic 149 (241mm waist)
– YES Emoticon 149 (241mm waist)
The more freestyle options would include the Burton Stylus 152 (244mm waist).
Or if you wanted a little step up, but still beginner friendly, something like the Burton Yeasayer 152 (247mm waist).
For men’s, most boards in that length range should be wide enough, if you wanted to look there. The Arbor Foundation is basically the men’s equivalent of the Ethos, if you wanted to look at that. There is a 148 (247.5mm waist) and a 152 (249mm waist) that would both be suitable, depending if you wanted to err on slightly shorter or slightly longer.
For more men’s options, check out:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks so much for your help, Nate!
Is there any reason that a female rider shouldn’t get a men’s board, if I don’t need to see flowers when I look down? I’m leaning toward the Foundation, but is there any difference between men’s and women’s boards that I should be considering?
Hi Katie
One of the biggest differences between men’s and women’s boards is that the width, for the appropriate length is usually too wide on men’s boards. So I don’t usually recommend it for that reason. So the main thing is sizing. But if there’s an appropriate size, then there’s no reason you can’t.
The other small thing, is that flex flex ratings can be a little subjective and sometimes a women’s medium flex might be more like a men’s medium-soft flex. So, the Foundation might be slightly stiffer flexing than the Ethos. But if it is it would only subtly so. If you’re worried about that, then going with the 148 over the 152, might be the best choice. The shorter size will feel softer flexing than the longer size.
Hi Nate: I just spent a long weekend on my new board – I went with the Burton Yeasayer 152, and I LOVE it! Thanks so much for the advice!
Hi Katie
Thanks for the update – and awesome that you’re loving the Yeasayer!
Hi Nate,
I’m 156 cm 110 lbs with US 8, I’m interested in Burton Rewind 2019, seems 141 suit me. Is this board a traditional Camber or Hybrid Camber? Some reviews said it’s Camber and some saying it’s hybrid. Will it be easy in initiating turns? I’d say I’m more than a beginner but should I stick in beginner board? I can do S turn in most red runs. Is this board fits me as i wanna progress to park riding in future. I know this Burton board is for intermediate and advanced level…
Many thanks