The Top 5 Snowboards for Beginners (men’s)

Comments

1. Eric says

   March 8, 2015 at 1:11 pm

   Snowboarding Profiles you’ve done it again – you’ve amazed me! You are my go to resource from here on out! There is nowhere else I’ve been able to find search in depth reviews.

   And once for the little the noob, the top rated board is lowest priced! Sweetness!

   Thanks again SP!

   Eric

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 8, 2015 at 3:54 pm

     Hey Eric – thanks for the kind words and I’m glad you are getting value out of the posts. Always sweet when the top rated is the cheapest!

     Reply

2. John says

   March 8, 2015 at 2:31 pm

   Bookmarked this page for next fall! Had to defer my snowboarding education this winter to a knee injury but hoping to get started next winter…thanks for the advice on buying a beginner’s snowboard!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 8, 2015 at 3:57 pm

     Hey John. Thanks for visiting. you are very welcome for the advice. Hope your knee gets better as soon as possible and you can get your snowboarding going again next season. Just a quick note that late season (as in now in the northern hemisphere) and summer are typically the times you can pick up boards the cheapest as most retailers tend to have sales. But definitely understand waiting until the knee is recouped.

     Reply

3. Sylvia says

   March 8, 2015 at 8:04 pm

   Hi Nate!
   Great post, I like that you judge the snowboard on different factors.
   As a beginner, it’s hard to choose an ideal snowboard.
   I prefer the style of Ride Crook.
   I look forward for your women’s beginner boards post!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 9, 2015 at 5:12 pm

     Hey Sylvia – yeah I agree it’s really hard to choose a snowboard when you first start looking. There’s a heap of stuff to think about. Hopefully this is simplifying the process a little bit! I’m aiming to have the women’s top beginner snowboards post out sometime on the weekend of the 21st/22nd March (2015) so come back then if you want to check those out. Thanks for your input.

     Update: Top 5 Women’s Beginner Snowboards

     Reply

4. Kim says

   November 29, 2015 at 8:15 am

   Would you recommend either the 2015 or 2016 Rome Rocker? I can get a great price on a 2015 Rome Rocker and can’t tell that there are many differences between the two (although I admit I have very little knowledge about snowboards).

   Reply

   • Kim says

     November 29, 2015 at 8:17 am

     I mean the Rome Garage Rocker

     Reply

     • Nate says

       November 29, 2015 at 1:16 pm

       Hey Kim

       As far as I know not a lot changed between the 2015 and 2016 models. This board has been around for a good few years so it’s design is pretty established and there will be only minor tweaks. If you can get a good price on the 2015 model I’d go for that.

       Reply

5. Cameron says

   December 28, 2015 at 6:51 pm

   Hey nate,
   I am a begginer currently just moved to whistler, I like the ride crook snowboard but I was just wondering how it goes just cruising down the mountains, everywhere i look it says its a good park board but i have not yet got the skills to hit rails although i would love to if I get good enough…. Would you still recommend this board in just going down runs ?
   Thank you very much this site was so helpful
   Cam

   Reply

   • Nate says

     December 29, 2015 at 10:55 pm

     Hi Cam

     Thanks for the message.

     The Crook is great as a beginner board. It’s often the case that Beginner boards and park/freestyle boards are similar. This is because they share a lot of the same specs. E.g. softer flex is better for beginners and also better for riding in the park – a centered stance is better for park and better for beginners – a true twin shape is better for park and for beginners etc. Check out the article below to learn about the best specs for beginner boards to learn more.

     ~ Key Specs for Beginner Snowboards

     Hope this helps.

     Reply

6. Rob R says

   January 13, 2016 at 8:04 pm

   Hey Nate,
   First off, before I write a dissertation, freaking love the reviews! Making it so helpful for me to make a confident, and informed decision for my first board.

   So I have to comment since I need some guidance in picking a board.

   I’ll be snowboarding in CT (and possibly MA and VT) so East(Ice?) Coast.
   I’m 5’10/5’11 and 160-170lbs.

   I was looking at yours and some other well-known review sites and comparing everyone’s top beginner boards. Mainly you guys agree on alot of points but having some conflicting areas or boards so I can’t decide on one (I wish there was 1 board everyone picked!)

   I was leaning on going with the Rossignol Circuit until I came to your site. Some people say its the best beginner board other than tell me don’t get it because it’s too much rocker or it’s directional twin.

   I also looked at Rossignol Templar (which is still rocker friendly for a beginner, but has more camber 60:40 instead of the 80:20 of the Circuit) AND it has Magnetraction which I hear is great for the ice.
   Is it true that something like Magnetraction and catering to my specific geographic conditions is better than just general beginner board characteristics such as rocker edges, softer flex etc.

   If you know those boards could you comment how they line up with the Ride Agenda and Rome Garage Rocker.

   I am between those boards right now.
   Rossignol Circuit (supposed to be very beginner friendly – some worry about it’s twin shape)
   Rossignol Templar (Magnetraction?)
   Ride Agenda (The one I have heard the least about – only on your site)
   Rome Garage Rocker (I heard it’s somewhat of a park board, but you seem to love it for a beginner)?

   Are there any other beginner boards I’m missing? Want to make sure I pick the best board for my East coast conditions for a first timer.

   (Also, I’m leaning towards the budget ones, hence when I didnt use the Crook etc.) I can find the Circuit for 225 on sale, Agenda 225 for last years closeout model and Garage Rocker I think for 200 as well. Templar for 225 on 1-2 year model closeout (all of these new condition, through various sites like Evo, The-house)

   Reply

   • Nate says

     January 14, 2016 at 8:21 pm

     Hey Rob

     Thanks for the message and thanks for all the details. It’s great to see you’re doing your research. It’ll pay dividends. Also great that you’ve thought about conditions. That certainly plays a part.

     I don’t really know the Circuit but after looking at its specs it does sound like a great beginner board. There are only 2 things that make it not completely perfect in my book. The first is the Directional Twin shape. I’d prefer it to have a true twin shape but this really isn’t a huge deal and directional twin is the next best thing to true twin. The second is that the Circuit has a 20mm setback. I prefer to have beginners with a centered stance. But again this isn’t a deal breaker for a beginner board – and 20mm isn’t a huge setback. I would rate the Circuit a 92/100.

     The Templar is also definitely suitable as a beginner deck. Has the same minor setbacks as the Circuit – again not biggies. The other thing is that it has a sintered base. I usually mark down beginner decks for having a sintered base because beginners don’t need the extra speed of a sintered base and also because it means you’ll need to wax it more often. But it certainly doesn’t ruin it as a good beginner board. The other thing is price but if you can find it for 225 as you mention then that’s out of the equation. I’d score it an 86.5/100 at its 399 normal price but at 225 then it would be a 90.5/100.

     The Garage Rocker would definitely work as a park board. A lot (but not all) of park/freestyle decks are also suitable as beginner decks because of sharing certain things such as twin shape, softer flex, centered stance, stability (for landing jumps when it comes to riding freestyle), an extruded base and they are also usually cheaper than all-mountain and freeride boards.

     I’m not sure if you’ve been recommended a size or not yet but I would go with something around a 155cm, 156cm or 157cm (max). Based on your height and weight your all-mountian board length would be 159. But you should always go shorter when you are learning. This is also an important factor. If you decide on one of these boards but can’t find it in the right size then I’d change to one of your other choices. The length is also an important consideration.

     I know that the Agenda and Garage Rocker have a 156cm, the Circuit has a 155cm and the Templar has a 155cm.

     I think any one of those boards would be a good choice. The Templar is going to have the best edgehold so if your worried about ice then this is going to handle that the best. You can also check out my beginner snowboard catalogue page (which has the 5 boards here plus an extra 5 (+ women’s beginner boards).

     ~ Beginner Snowboard Catalogue Page

     Hope this helps and thanks for visiting

     Reply

     • Paul Walsh says

       February 25, 2017 at 7:10 pm

       I’ve been coming back to this site over and over again. I’m a newbie. And at the tender age of 43 I’m really putting myself outside my comfort zone. This particular comment got me – I’m never going to another site again. This is it. Your reviews are second to none and your responses to comments are incredible. I used to be a blogger during the early days. It’s so awesome to see a blogger with such amazing quality writing and commentary. For me a great blog can be based on the community comments as much as the author. Thank you for what you do.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         February 26, 2017 at 7:53 pm

         Hi Paul

         Thanks so much for your comments. Really appreciate it!

         And great work for getting out of your comfort zone and starting snowboarding – huge respect for that!

         Reply

7. Ricardo says

   March 21, 2016 at 6:37 am

   Hi Nate,
   I’m just entered the snowboard wordl. I’ve seen your posts about choosing the right beginer board. Looking around i’ve seen the Salomon Sight 2016 for a very good price and it has the most important requisits for beginer board (rocker-camber-rocker and a medium-soft flex). I would like to know your opinion for this board for a beginer.
   Sorry for my english, i’m from Spain.
   Thanks for this page and for your time,
   Ric

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 21, 2016 at 11:38 am

     Hi Ricardo

     Thanks for your message. Your English is fine!

     I think that the Salomon Sight would be a really good choice as a beginner deck. It’s a directional twin rather than true twin and has a setback of -10mm but these are small considerations. These are only small things and the only reasons that this board isn’t in the top 5 above. As you pointed out the flex and camber are more important.

     If you can get this board for a good price then it’s a good buy for a beginner.

     Reply

8. Marco says

   August 6, 2016 at 12:51 pm

   Hi Nate !
   we are buying a deck, gift for our friend, he is a beginner.
   Due to a good discount we have to choose one of these decks:
   DRAKE DF3 2016 or SALOMON SIGHT 2016 or NITRO PRIME 2016.
   Your opinion will be very helpful for us…
   Thank you very much !

   Bye
   Marco

   Reply

   • Nate says

     August 7, 2016 at 10:25 am

     Hey Marco

     I don’t know Drake boards very well but with a quick look at the stats it looks like it would make a good beginner deck – same for the Nitro Prime. The Salomon Sight is also a great beginner deck – it would have made this list if it was a top 10. You can’t really go wrong with any of those boards for a beginner by the looks of it. That said I’m not that familiar with the Drake and Nitro decks.

     Size is also important. If you were able to let me know your friends rough weight and height I could recommend the best size for him – and that might narrow down your choice, depending on what sizes are available for the discount.

     Buying your friend a snowboard – now that’s what I call good friends!

     Reply

9. Marco says

   August 8, 2016 at 2:46 am

   Hi Nate, thanks a lot for your kind reply !!!!!
   He already has Burton boots 11.5 (the available boards are wide)
   He’s 180 cm. tall and his weight is 65 Kg.
   The Salomon is directional twin with camber, the Drake DF3 is flat and true twin.
   I think that tha rocker-camber-rocker of Salomon is better for learning and doing carving in the future, but I’m not sure…
   Perhaps is the same and it’s better to buy the flat and true twin Drake.

   The prices are :
   Salomon Sight 192 euro
   Drake DF3 180 euro

   Ciao
   Marco

   Reply

   • Nate says

     August 8, 2016 at 12:04 pm

     Hey Marco

     Good idea to go for a wide with those boots. In terms of length I’d say something around a 154 to 156 would be the best length for him at this stage. So hopefully there’s an option around that. The 155W Salomon Sight would be a great fit, in my opinion.

     The Sight would definitely be the better option for the likes of carving in the future. If you think he’s likely to be more of an all mountain rider. But I’d go with one of the others if there’s a better fit size-wise. That’s more important as a beginner.

     I think the Drake has a 155W and the Nitro has a 156W. I think those sizes are your best bets.

     Sight – 155W
     DF3 – 155W
     Prime – 156W

     Reply

     • Marco says

       August 8, 2016 at 5:26 pm

       The Prime is no more available…

       The Sight 155W and the DF3 155W are available.
       So, I think to buy the Sight !
       I’ve noticed that the Sight has 6 couples of holes on the nose and only 5 on the tail, why ? How to find the simmetrical position for the bindings ?
       Sorry for this noobie question…

       Reply

       • Nate says

         August 9, 2016 at 9:54 pm

         Hey Marco

         Good spotting! I only just noticed it only has 5 sets of holes at the back. The sight is designed with a small setback (10mm) so you should set it up so that it’s 10mm closer to the tail than it is to the nose.

         So you’ll need to find your stance width first. I find it’s always good to try the recommended stance of a snowboard first – which is 565mm on the Sight – which is most likely the middle set on the front holes and middle set on the back holes. Measure from center of front bindings to center of back bindings for that 565mm. If you choose a 565mm stance width, then the center of the front binding should be 497.5mm from the nose of the board and the center of the back binding should be 487.5mm from the tail.

         Hope this makes sense but let me know if you need it explained further.

         If he doesn’t like the reference stance he could find a different stance widht – for help to find your stance width, check out the link below.

         >>Choosing the best snowboard stance setup

         Reply

10. Asis says

    October 25, 2016 at 2:32 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Great article! I have two questions,
    1) I weight around 220lb (110kgs) and went to a store where they actually do have the Agenda, would you still recommend me the Rossignol or not because of the weight?
    2) on that store iI also saw the Raygun (k2) and Clash (Burton) for begginers…..how come they didn’t make the top 5? (just for curiosity, going to buy my first snowboard ever and want to have all the info as possible before making my final decision).

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 25, 2016 at 3:21 pm

      Hi Asis

      Thanks for your message.

      Sizing the board correctly is probably the most important thing – so I wouldn’t recommend the Rossi District for you because it doesn’t really cater to your weight. Out of those 2 the Agenda would be the better option. The Salomon sight might come in a better size for you as well.

      The Raygun and the Clash are on the list but they just didn’t make the top 5. The Raygun didn’t make it because it’s slightly stiffer than the ideal beginner board and the Clash didn’t make it mostly because it has quite a bit of setback stance (that doesn’t make it unsuitable as a beginner board but just not as ideal as the ones on this list).

      That said, flex is also a factor of weight – so if you weight more than the recommended weight for a board, then the flex of that board is going to feel softer than what that board is labelled as. So for example the Raygun 159 is recommended for 150-210lbs and has a medium flex. At 220lbs it might make that flex feel more like a medium-soft flex – which would be better for you as a beginner.

      So I can more accurately recommend a board can you let me know your boot size and height as well and then I can get back to with what I think would be your best choice.

      Reply

      • Asis says

        October 26, 2016 at 8:46 am

        Wow, all of this is amazing! I really appreciate all the insight you are providing me and your time as well. My height is 6′ and shoe size is 13 mostly (in some brands I am 12, although I do have wide feet).

        Reply

        • Nate says

          October 26, 2016 at 1:41 pm

          You’re very welcome.

          Thanks for the extra info. For starters you’ll definitely need to go for a wide or mid-wide board. A regular width will be too narrow.

          A standard length for you (if you were an advanced rider) would be around 162cm to 164cm. However, because you are a beginner a board that long would be too difficult to ride. So you should be looking at taking at least 3cm and up to 5 or 6cm off that length. So I think that your best length range to look at for your first board is 157 to 160. But we also want to take the weight recommendations (when available of each individual board.

          Given all of that I would recommend the following boards and sizes:

          >>Ride Agenda 157W

          >>K2 Raygun 157W

          >>Rome Mechanic 157MW

          >>Slash Happy Place 159W

          I haven’t included the Clash in there just because I think it’s a bit far off in terms of weight recommendations – it would likely be fine but I think there are better options above. If you really did want the Clash then go with the 160W.

          Reply

          • Asis says

            November 7, 2016 at 8:57 am

            Nate you are the best! I like how you consider every single detail! Just one last question, lets say I would like to save some $$$, any snowboard from previous year(s) that would also be very good for beginners?

          • Nate says

            November 7, 2016 at 2:59 pm

            Hey Asis

            Any of the boards I mentioned haven’t changed a whole lot from last year’s model, so you could definitely go for any of those in a past season model. If there are any other past season models that you like the look of and like the price of, let me know what you’re looking at and I can recommend a size and also whether or not I think they’d be suitable for a beginner.

11. Tyler says

    November 19, 2016 at 8:12 pm

    Nate great list!!!

    A couple questions:

    1) I am 6 ft 4 inches. What size board should I get for my first snow board?

    2) I see some of last years models on the internet at reduced prices are the 2016 and 2017 models the same on the Ride Agenda and Yes Basic?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 20, 2016 at 5:45 pm

      Hi Tyler

      The YES Basic 2017 model is the same as the 2016 model and the Agenda is the same or virtually the same.

      In order to recommend a size can you also give me your weight. Your weight is the most important factor for sizing.

      Reply

12. Jay says

    November 30, 2016 at 6:57 pm

    Hi Nate

    Thank you for the great articles! It is super helpful for beginners like myself.
    I’m choosing my first set and using your guides as a base.
    Salomon Sight was one of the options I’m considering and I found it in our local SKI/Snowboard store, but 2016 model for the really good price. Few sites where I found this model basically not showing any difference, except design, but maybe I’m missing something (btw they all showing that both models have hybrid camber profile, maybe you have a typo)
    The size I found is 156 and I’m 160lb 6′ . Is it going to be good for me ?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 1, 2016 at 3:18 pm

      Hi Jay

      Yes that’s definitely a typo! Have fixed it now. Thanks for pointing that out.

      The 156 is a good size for you. That’s the size I would have picked for you. 2016 model is perfectly fine too. Basically the same board.

      Reply

13. Andrew says

    December 5, 2016 at 11:10 am

    Hi Nate,

    Your articles are great. I am planning on spending the ski season in Austria (Sölden) and would like some advise for buying my first snowboard. Following your article “The Best Beginner Snowboard Boots”, I am trying to decide between the Burton Moto’s size 29 (44.5 US) because they have a good rating on the reduced footprint and the Thirty Two 86FT. Any advise?

    As the snowboards I really like the Ride Agenda and Rossignol District. My weight is 170 lbs, my height is 6′ and shoe size 29 mondo.

    Could you please recommend a board and size ?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 6, 2016 at 2:13 pm

      Hi Andrew

      Thanks for your message.

      I think a good length range in general for you would be somewhere between 155cm and 157cm, if possible, though it does depend (somewhat) on the particular board.

      For the Agenda I would go with the 157W

      For the District I would go with 156W

      I think that the District is (only just) the better size so that might help with your decision – but it’s only just.

      Both the Motos and 86FT make great beginner boots. If you were to go with the Moto you might be able to fit onto the Agenda 156 because of that reduced footprint. No guarantees though. Your safer bet would still be the 157W for the Agenda. For the District I would stick with the 156W regardless.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Andrew says

        December 7, 2016 at 3:29 am

        It does. I will go for last years (2016) Ride Agenda 157W.

        Your articles are awesome! This ought to be one of the best websites for getting info on snowboard gear. Great job!

        Could you recommend a pair of bindings?

        I was thinking maybe Union DLX, Ride EX or Ride LX. Any personal favorites?

        Thanks again for your help.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 7, 2016 at 2:19 pm

          Thanks Andrew!

          I never tested the Union DLX but Union are very consistent across their line and even their lower end bindings tend to be good quality – but I couldn’t say for sure for the DLX. Looking at their specs though I think they’d make decent beginner bindings.

          The Ride EX and LX are also both decent beginner bindings with the EX probably being the better beginner bindings overall but the LX being cheaper.

          If you’re looking for Union bindings and want something that’s at a really good price and also really well suited to beginners, then I’d look at the Union Flite Pros. Also check out my top 5 beginner bindings at the link below.

          >>Top 5 Men’s Beginner Snowboard Bindings

          Reply

          • Andrew says

            December 8, 2016 at 1:47 am

            Thanks Nate!

            Is it true that one of the disadvantages of the Flat to Rocker shape, is that you don’t have any spring out of the turn, no camber to give you that flex out of the turn and spring out of it?

            Not sure which shape (flat to rocker or hybrid camber) provides the best experience as a beginner wanting to progress to an intermediate level?

            Could you recommend a beginner board that fit my height (6’0), weight ( 170lbs) and shoes size (44.5 US), the salomon sight, ride agenda and rossignol district?

            Thanks in advance.

          • Nate says

            December 8, 2016 at 3:05 pm

            Hi Andrew

            Yeah you definitely get more spring out of a turn with Camber in there. Not usually something that beginners need or are looking for but if it’s something that you’re after, then the Hybrid Camber will be your better bet. In that case the Sight or the District but here are what sizes I would go for for the 3 you mentioned.

            Sight: 155W or 158W (if you were an absolute beginner maybe 155W would be best but if you’re closer to intermediate then the 158W would be fine)

            Agenda: 157W

            District: 156W (Rossi have notoriously light weight recommendations. By their recommendations you’d be on the 161W but that’s definitely too long for you at this stage.

            Hope this answers your questions

14. Andrew says

    December 9, 2016 at 12:09 am

    Hey Nate,

    Buying the right equipment and getting into snowboard as a beginner can be overwhelming. Your website is a great source of information.

    I appreciate your feedback and help. I decided to go with the Ride Agenda 157W with bindings Ride LX (it was part of snowboard set deal, €415 ) and Thirty Two 86ft boots size 29.

    Do you think I made a bad choice with the LX bindings?

    I am still able to return my purchase.

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 9, 2016 at 8:16 pm

      Hi Andrew

      I would say the Ride LX will be fine for you. They aren’t on this list but they are still good as beginner bindings. I wouldn’t go to the trouble of sending them back. I think they will do the job just fine. I think that set up all round will be a good combination for progressing from a beginner to intermediate level.

      Hope you have an awesome season in Austria!

      Reply

      • Andrew says

        December 9, 2016 at 9:31 pm

        Thanks for all your support! You have made buying my first snowboard a cool experience.

        All the best!

        Reply

15. Gabriel says

    December 27, 2016 at 10:18 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Your article is great!! Thank you!! I am a beginner and I’m planning to buy a snowboard for take my firsts rides… I would like some advices… The rossignol district was the one I most like… but I’m in doubt beacuse of my size I’m 6’00 Height and weigh 210 pounds (95kg) and my foot size 10.5US Any advise?

    Could you please recommend a board and size ?

    Thank you for your time!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 28, 2016 at 12:11 pm

      Hi Gabriel

      For you I’d say a good size, generally speaking would be anything from a 157 to 159. The District 159cm would be the best size for you for the district. With size 10.5 boots you don’t need to and shouldn’t go for a wide. Anything between a 252mm and 258mm waist width would be ideal.

      You are above Rossi’s weight recommendations for that board but Rossi’s weight recommendations do tend to be on the light side.

      If you are worried about being too far above those weight recommendations, these are what I think would be good sizes on this list:

      YES Basic: 158cm

      Salomon Sight: I would say the 159 but I think the 250mm waist width is just a little bit too narrow

      Capita Horrorscope: 157cm

      Ride Agenda: 159cm

      Any of these boards would make great beginner boards for you – the only one I probably wouldn’t go for is the Salomon Sight since it doesn’t come in a size that would be appropriate for you.

      If you’d like more options you can check out my catalog of beginner snowboards at the link below.

      >>Beginner Snowboards Catalog Page

      That will give you 10 other options that would also be suitable (if they have an appropriate size for you). If you pick one of the other ones and aren’t sure on the best size, let me know and I can recommend a size.

      Reply

16. Michael says

    December 31, 2016 at 4:02 pm

    Hi Nate. Thanks so much for putting this list together. I went to South Lake Tahoe this past weekend for my first snowboarding trip and got hooked. Even though I’m very much a beginner, I’d like to buy my first board instead of renting from here on out. I’m 6.0 and 170 pounds with a size 12 boot (Just bought some K2 Maysis boots). Of your top 5 beginner snowboards, which would you recommend for me? With my shoe size, I know that I’ll have to go with a wide board.
    Thanks so much Nate. You rock!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 1, 2017 at 9:59 am

      Hi Michael

      Great move getting your own board – will definitely help with your progress.

      Yes you should go for a wide with size 12 boots.

      From this list I would say the following sizes would be your best bet:

      Basic: 156W
      Sight: 158W
      Horrorscope: 157
      Agenda: 157W
      District: 156W

      I think that the Agenda and the District have the best size options for you, so I would go with one of those. Any of these boards would be suitable so picking the one with the best size is your best bet. I think the sight 158W is a little bit long and the Horrorscope 157 and Basic 156W are potentially too narrow. The Agenda and the District are a good length and width for you.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

17. radu says

    January 2, 2017 at 3:50 pm

    53,104 kg.,31,5 bo0t size,absolute beginner(only ski)living in europe.Your advice for a good board?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 3, 2017 at 2:31 am

      Hi Radu

      Can you confirm your height and weight – I am a bit confused by the 53,104 kg. Is it 5’3″ and 104 kg or 53.104kg. If you can confirm your height/weight for me, then I can recommend a board/size for you.

      Reply

18. mili says

    January 3, 2017 at 6:50 am

    hiiiii
    my weight is 220lb and my height is 191 cm.
    i am beginner.
    i want to buy rossignol district 2017 size 161w
    i worrying about board size due to the rossignol size chart.
    please recommend me.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 4, 2017 at 12:41 am

      Hi Mili

      I wouldn’t always follow weight recommendations and Rossi’s recommendations are usually on the light side. However, in this case you are quite a bit over their recommendations so to play it safe, I would say that the District probably isn’t the best option.

      There isn’t much between the boards on this list so the number 1 isn’t necessarily the best for you – especially if it doesn’t come in the best size for you.

      That’s not to say a definite no to the District but I think it would be wiser to look at other options.

      I would say that the Salomon Sight 162W and the Ride Agenda 161W would be better bets. You can also check out the link below if you want to research more options.

      ~ Beginner Snowboards Ratings Catalog

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • mili says

        January 5, 2017 at 11:08 pm

        thank you for reply.
        so i want snowboard with this specs
        1.beginner board
        2.hybrid chamber(rocker.chamber.rocker)
        3.soft or medium soft

        right??
        so please recommend me
        2015_2016_2017 board

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 6, 2017 at 4:37 pm

          Hi Mili

          If you can find a 2015 or 2016 model of a board and get it cheap it’s often a good idea to go for them. Though it depends on the board because some boards will have changed quite a bit from year to year – but some boards will be fairly similar.

          A beginner board with a hybrid camber profile and medium-soft flex is a good choice but it’s also important that it’s a certain type of hybrid camber – if there’s too much camber or if the camber is too high, then the board can become too aggressive for beginners – so yes to Hybrid Camber but not all Hybrid Camber boards are suitable. A flat to rocker profile and certain Hybrid Rocker profiles are also good for beginners.

          From this list I’d say that the Salomon Sight 162W (Hybrid Camber) and the Ride Agenda 161W (Flat-to-rocker) are your best options.

          Reply

19. John says

    January 3, 2017 at 1:07 pm

    Nate – I appreciate you taking the time to reply. I am 5′ 7” 170 lbs and I am looking for a good beginner board that I won’t need to upgrade after a month. I am also curious what size board you recommend. I have looked at the Clash and Ripcord along with the Ride Agenda.

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 4, 2017 at 2:06 am

      Hi John

      I would say that the Clash is a decent option as is the Agenda. I wouldn’t go with the Ripcord though. The YES Basic is also another great option if you’re looking for a board that can stay with you for a long time. In terms of sizing I would say:

      YES Basic: 155cm
      Ride Agenda: 156cm
      Burton Clash: 155cm
      Burton Ripcord: 154cm

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • John says

        January 4, 2017 at 3:40 pm

        Thanks for the feedback. Between the Yes Basic and the Agenda, which one would you recommend based simply on the board? Also, what pair of bindings would match up well with a board at this level?

        Thanks

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 6, 2017 at 12:33 pm

          Hi John

          I would recommend the YES Basic over the Agenda in terms of the board. The Agenda is slightly more ideally suited to a beginner – but not by that much really – and if you take beginner out of the equation, the Basic is a better board, IMO.

          In terms of bindings, check out the link below for some beginner binding options.

          ~ My Top 5 Beginner Bindings

          If you are looking for something high quality but also suitable for a beginner, then I would also recommend the following outside of that list (that list takes price into account also):

          ~ Union Contact Pro

          ~ Flux RII

          ~ Burton Mission
          

          ~ Ride Rodeo
          

          ~ Salomon District

          Hope this gives you some options to look at.

          Reply

20. Sander says

    January 7, 2017 at 5:22 am

    Thanks so much for this! I’ve been looking to get into snowboarding and there are just so many options. Reading this and the explanation what the difference is between the different snowboard types has helped me so much.

    Seeing as I live in Holland the stores here aren’t as experienced with their own stock. I just came back from a store where they tried to sell me a Bataleon Omni (which is a beautifull board, it just isn’t for a true beginner).

    One question though. I’m 1,87 cm and weigh 85 kg. My bootsize is 11.5 (US). How long should my board be? I’ve read somewhere between 159 and 162..Would you recommend a shorter board over a longer, for stability?

    Thanks in advance for your answer. And keep up the good work, your site is the only one I’ve read with such clear information. As we say in Holland ‘I couldn’t see the trees in the forest anymore’ There’s just so much information so it’s refreshing to read a article with all the information I needed.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 7, 2017 at 1:55 pm

      Hi Sander

      Thanks for your message. Glad that you are finding the site helpful. I agree that the Bataleon Omni is not suitable as a beginner board.

      In terms of size for you, I would say 158cm to 160cm as a beginner. It’s a good idea to get a slightly smaller board as a beginner because it makes it easy to maneuver the board and learn to turn. Longer length will give you more stability at speed but it sacrifices maneuverability and it will be harder to turn on.

      With 11.5US boots you want to look at something that is roughly between 257mm and 264mm waist width.

      From this list I would say your best sizes are as follows:

      Yes Basic: 159W
      Salomon Sight: 158W
      Capita Horrorscope: 157W
      Ride Agenda: 157W
      Rossignol District: not really a suitable size there IMO

      Hope this helps with your decision on sizing

      Reply

      • Sander says

        January 7, 2017 at 11:53 pm

        Hi Nate,

        Thanks for the reply!

        Too bad the Rossignol District isn’t an option, from what I’ve read on your site and the internet it is a very good beginner board. Plus I could get last year’s model really cheap. But I’m guessing my big feet won’t fit the board?

        From the other board’s I’m leaning towards the Salomon because of the price. But I’m also really liking the Yes Basic. It’s the most expensive, but from what I understand of your review it’s a board that’s not only suitable for a beginner, but also for the intermediate. Does that make a less choice for a beginner, or is the difference not really that big?

        One other question; A friend of mine gave me his Burton Mission bindings (from 2006). Reading your comments these are also suitable bindings for a beginner. Does this also apply to the bindings from 2006? Or has much changed in the last 10 years?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 8, 2017 at 5:28 pm

          Hi Sander

          Yeah, the only thing is that the two sizes of District that would be wide enough for your boots would be the 156W and the 161W. I think that the 156W would be a bit too short for you and the 161W would be slightly too long for you as a beginner.

          If you really want to go with the District and had to choose one of those sizes I would say the 161W but I think that’s just slightly too long.

          The YES Basic is a really good choice for beginners – the fact that it’s also good for more advanced riders doesn’t take away it’s suitability as a beginner board in this case.

          Bindings have come a long way in 10 years – but that’s not to say that they wouldn’t be suitable. I think they would do the job as long as they’re still in good condition and they’re an appropriate size for you. If you’re not sure whether they are the right size for you or not, let me know what size they are and I can give you my opinion.

          Reply

21. Victor says

    January 8, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    Hi Nate, first off great article and great responses to everyone’s questions! It’s been super helpful reading all these things. In 2004, I went to a snowboard sale and managed to get a bunch of gear but I only used it for one season. I want to get back into it and relearn and progress. I took my board to the store but they said they would recommend me to just rent because my board is way too stiff and not suitable for a beginner. I have a 2004 156cm Burton Canyon (had no clue when I bought it, just looked pretty), and also 2004 Burton Custom bindings.

    I’m 5’9 165. I was wondering if I could re-use my old bindings with a new board or do you recommend new bindings too? Regarding the old 2004 board, is there any future use to it, or has technology gotten so good that I should just sell/get rid of it?

    Thanks,
    Victor

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 9, 2017 at 4:56 pm

      Hi Victor

      Thanks for your message.

      Just looking at the specs of the Canyon (not a board I’m familiar with) I agree that it’s too stiff for a beginner. But I disagree about renting. I think you are much better off with your own board.

      You could re-use your bindings if they are still in good condition. There have been a lot of technical advances in both boards and bindings over the last 13 years so you would get more out of new bindings – but if the Burton Customs are similar in terms of flex in the 2004 model as they are now, then they will be a suitable beginner binding.

      I think you are better off trying to sell the 2004 Canyon, if you can. If not you could always try it out again once you are more advanced – who knows it might be a fun board to experiment with. But to be honest it’s not likely to perform like modern boards do.

      In terms of size for you, based on your height/weight and the fact that you are a beginner, I would go for something that is between 153cm and 155cm.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Victor says

        January 10, 2017 at 6:34 pm

        Oops, sorry if this was a double reply, but I am not sure if it went through. My friend has a 2014 Mountain Twin 157cm that he can let me borrow and I was wondering if that would be okay, or if I would just rent until I procure my own board. I missed all the sales so I’m scavenging around for a used Horrorscope or Yes Basic.

        Between the two, if I do not plan on hitting up the park, and just doing groomed/powder runs would you lean more towards the Yes Basic?

        Regarding re-using my bindings, the old 2004 bindings are pretty stiff. Your article mentioned that you should treat beginner bindings like beginner boards, and the 2016 bindings at the store were so much more soft/flexy. New bindings also means new boots as I think boot profiles are much slimmer today too is what the store said.

        Thank you again for all your help. I have a ski trip planned this weekend and all my procrastination kind of left me in this temporary set of rushed decisions.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 11, 2017 at 4:59 pm

          Hi Victor

          The Mountain Twin is a better board for starting out than the Burton Canyon – but I think the 157cm is a bit long for you at this point. So perhaps it’s better to rent in the meantime until you get your own board.

          The YES Basic will be more suitable for groomers once you’re passed the beginner stage – so yeah, if you’re not planning to ever progress into the park, then the Basic would be the better choice, IMO.

          Definitely beginner bindings should also not be too stiff – so if your bindings feel really stiff, then I’d get something new.

          In terms of boots – boots are definitely getting more and more low profile these days. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that they won’t fit into current bindings. If you get the opportunity you could try out the new bindings with your boots and see if they will be suitable. Assuming your boots are suitable as they are – again, for progressing from the beginner phase you don’t want your boots to be too stiff – and at any level you want to make sure they fit right.

          Reply

          • Victor says

            January 12, 2017 at 11:34 pm

            Thanks again Nate. One last question! I’m having a terribly hard time finding a Basic in stock at 155. Just to have a little more selection, would the Typo work, or is it too stiff you think for a beginner?

            Thanks,
            Victor

          • Nate says

            January 13, 2017 at 4:56 pm

            Hi Victor

            There’s a 155 at the link below (if you are in the US).

            >>YES Basic at evo

            The Typo is also a really good beginner option. Not quite as good to learn on as the Basic – but pretty close. If you can find the Typo and not the Basic, that’s certainly an option.

22. Sander says

    January 9, 2017 at 12:47 am

    Hi Nate,

    I’ve made an error with my shoesize. I have size 10, not size 11. You Americans with your difficult sizing systems 😉

    I’m still leaning towards the Yes Basic, though. I’m just worried that it’s a little harder to ride than the Rossignol, or is the difference really marginal? And how would you know that you’ve outgrown your snowboard?

    The Burton bindings are size ‘L’ which, if I look at the sizing table on the Burton website, should fit my size 10 boots.

    Thanks again for taking the time to answer these questions, I really appreciate it.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 9, 2017 at 5:09 pm

      Hi Sander

      In that case you could go with the District – the 159cm District would be a good size for you. Also, the sizes of the other boards will also change. So I would now say:

      Yes Basic: 158
      Salomon Sight: 159
      Capita Horrorscope: 157
      Ride Agenda: 159
      Rossignol District:159

      I’d say that the District would be easier to start out on – but only really marginally so. The YES Basic is a great beginner deck. I think you can just tell when you’ve outgrown a board. Either that or you won’t know until you try a different board and then realize it.

      US10.0s will fit a Burton Large binding so you should be fine there. I also wear US10.0s and I prefer Burton Mediums but also fit in Burton Large and that’s me being fussy!

      Reply

      • Sander says

        January 10, 2017 at 9:53 am

        OK, I’m buying the Yes Basic with Burton Moto boots!

        Thanks for the advice!!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 10, 2017 at 6:41 pm

          Good work! Hope you enjoy your setup and have an awesome season!

          Reply

23. Fandy says

    January 9, 2017 at 9:21 pm

    Hi Nate , you have a really good article and id like to ask some few questions. I am 176cm and 82-85kg and uses 42-43 depends on shoes. I also own a burton custom flying v 158 and a fluc nx2 gt hybrid and northwave tf3 asian fit shoes , what my concerns is that the board is a bit hard for me to initiate turns (i am still learning to link turns correctly) i am able to initiate turns but not as easily as i see people does it so i think this is not yet the correct board for me. Thus i decided to buy a new set of board that is easier for me to progress. I have been eyeing at rossignol district as it seems as the best suited for me , would you recommend me this board and if you do which size ? And what about bindings and boots ? Can i still use my old set or it is better to buy a new set ? If new , which set in particular ? Fyi i mostly do resorts , groomed runs (in resorts) will probably do others when i progress .Thanks for the input , very much appriciated.

    Reply

24. Fandy says

    January 10, 2017 at 6:55 am

    Hi i would like to also add that i owned a burton mission bindings too before i changed to flow nx2 gt hybrid, i did regret after changing as the speed entry was not speedy at all as i have to readjust the strap everytime i put my boots in after a lift ride , probably because of the boots but who knows.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 10, 2017 at 2:58 pm

      Hi Fandy

      First of all with the bindings. I haven’t yet taken to speed entry bindings. I like the idea of them, but they haven’t been my thing in the past. Now I haven’t tried them in a few years so they might have improved them now but I’m not sure.

      But besides that, the NX2 GTs probably aren’t the best beginner bindings as they are too stiff for beginners. If possible I would get new bindings as I think that is part of your issue. Check out the link below to get some ideas on some good beginner bindings.

      ~ My Top 5 Snowboard Bindings for Beginners

      For boots, I’m not that familiar with Northwave boots but I think the “tf3” is one of the boot liners they use, so I’m not sure which brand you have so I’m unable to comment as to whether I think they’re suitable or not.
      In terms of the board I think that a better length for you would be 155cm-156cm. It’s a good idea to size down as a beginner and it will also help you to initiate your turns more easily.

      My only thing with the District is that you would be a good bit above the weight recommendations for the 155cm (which would be your best size in that board, IMO). Whilst those weight recommendations are only guidelines, I don’t like to see people too far above or below them.

      For the other boards on this list I would say the following sizes would work:

      Ride Agenda: 156cm
      Capita Horrorscope: 155cm
      Salomon Sight: 156cm
      YES Basic: 155cm

      Hope this helps. Let me know if you want more options.

      Reply

      • Fandy says

        January 11, 2017 at 10:08 pm

        Hi Nate , thank you for the reply. What boots do you think will match beginner and the burton customs binding ? I am really leaning towards rossignol as it has the gimmick of easy turning :p , just to confirm so i take it that my size is 155 for rossignol , yes ? thanks !

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 12, 2017 at 7:59 pm

          Hi Fandy

          Yes, 155cm would be the best size for the District for you. Just that you will be a good bit above the weight recommendations so the board will likely feel softer flexing than how it’s rated.

          Check out the link below to get some ideas for beginner boots.

          ~ My Top 7 Beginner Snowboard Boots

          Reply

          • Fandy says

            January 13, 2017 at 1:14 am

            Hi Nate , finally bought another setup. Salomon sight 156 , union contact binding and vans aura boots. Please tell me that the binding is correct as i cant find any beginner binding according to your list , the same goes with the board as this is the only board available out of all the list you have here.

            As for the boots i find that i can actually wiggle my ankle a little when i walk, i was told this is normal as for the case for soft boots, is it true ?

            Thanks!

          • Nate says

            January 13, 2017 at 5:01 pm

            Hi Fandy

            Congrats on your new gear!

            Union Contacts are certainly suitable as beginner bindings – good choice there.

            As a rule of thumb it’s good if your heel only lifts off the bottom of the boot by around 1cm at most. You can only really tell this by feel. A minimal amount of lateral movement is probably acceptable but you wouldn’t want to be able to noticeably move your feet from side to side. Certainly some movement is ok but you don’t want too much.

25. Spencer says

    January 16, 2017 at 10:04 am

    Nate, you and this article rock! Appreciate all of the insight. Just wanted to get your quick thoughts on the board size for me. I’m 5’10 and 225 with 10.5/11 boot size. Looking at the Agenda it seems my best option is either the 161W or 157W. Being a beginner should I lean towards the shorter version? Thanks for the help!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 16, 2017 at 12:41 pm

      Hi Spencer

      Thanks for your comments and you’re very welcome.

      I think that the 157W will be the better length for you for the Agenda as a beginner and also a better width for your boots.

      Reply

26. Victor says

    January 17, 2017 at 4:22 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks for your advice. I ended up snagging what seems like the last Yes Basic 155 in the US. I called multiple stores and they all said that Yes isn’t sending any more. I just placed an order with Evo in Oregon to ship it up to me (can return it if that’s not the right board, but better to get it before it’s gone).

    I spent the weekend in Rossland, BC borrowing my friend’s Jones Mountain Twin 157cm. It’s a nice board and I ended the weekend able to carve some blues and really enjoyed going on uneven terrain and mini jumps. I would like to get more into the uneven terrain / playful jumping. Speed still scares me so I am not worried about going down the mountain the fastest, just want to go down it the funnest 🙂

    Also by the end of the weekend it hadn’t snowed at all so it was pretty rock hard, and there were a few times I went to edge basically on ice and the board just totally cut out on me and I wiped it hard. So beginner boards that edge a bit better on hard/icy terrain is nice since that’s kind of how the snow is out here in Seattle a lot of the time (at least lately).

    Would you still recommend the Yes Basic? Or might there be a better board recommendation?

    Regarding boots/bindings. They worked fine from what I can tell. I’m not sure what to expect if they’re too advanced or too stiff but I was able to work on them for 2 full days. Is there something I should look out for in terms of wanting to replace boots/bindings?

    Thank you very much for your time!

    Victor

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 18, 2017 at 4:30 pm

      Hi Victor

      Glad to hear it sounds like you are progressing nicely!

      Mountain Twin is a really nice board so I’m not surprised you liked it. I think you will like the YES Basic as much if not more. If for no other reason than that I think it’s better in icy conditions than the Mountain Twin. The Mountain Twin is good in hard conditions but only ok in icy conditions. I would say that the YES Basic is good in icy conditions, from what I’ve experienced.

      Otherwise I think the YES Basic will serve you well and I think it’s a good choice for you. It has some similarities with the Mountain Twin too – it’s got a similar camber profile (both Hybrid Camber) so will have a similar feel. The YES Basic is a little bit softer flexing and is a true twin – and this makes it a little bit more playful and slightly better for uneven terrain (though the Mountain Twin is still good there). It’s also better for riding switch. The Mountain Twin is better in powder and better at speed – but like you say you want to get down the funnest (love that term, by the way) not the fastest – so I think the YES Basic will be even more suited to you.

      In terms of boots and bindings, if you feel you’re comfortable on your current setup there may not be a need to change but it’s hard to tell when you have nothing to compare them to. If you do want to change and want something that’s beginner suitable, check out the links below.

      Bindings

      ~ How to Choose Beginner Bindings

      ~ My Top 5 Beginner Bindings

      Boots

      ~ How to Choose Beginner Boots

      ~ My Top 5 Beginner Boots

      Hope this helps and hope you enjoy your new board – let me know how you get on once you get a chance to ride it.

      Reply

27. Rade says

    January 23, 2017 at 1:33 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks so much for this comprehensive list. I’m 6’2″, 220lbs (but looking to be around 205 in a month) goofy-foot with a Men’s Size 11 boot. I’m definitely a beginner to intermediate. Currently I have a Kemper Revolution 163 board with traditional camber I bought back in 2010. When I first started out on the board/boots/binding I rented from the on-site shop I did great. When I got the Kemper board everything got much harder – especially the turns. Not looking to do any park, jumps or speed boarding, just would like to enjoy powder when it’s available and do a bit of carving / turns when it’s not. Would you be able to recommend a board for me? Thanks so much!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 24, 2017 at 3:04 pm

      Hi Rade

      Not surprised that you struggled after getting a trad camber board – very unforgiving to learn on.

      From what you describe I think the following would be good options:

      ~ Never Summer Snowtrooper 162

      ~ Jones Mountain Twin 162

      ~ Slash Brainstorm (either 159W or 163W – the 163W would be better in powder but the 159W will be easier to turn/more nimble)

      ~ Rossignol Templar 162W

      These aren’t pure beginner boards – but are pretty easy to turn on but will also perform in powder and when you want to carve. The Brainstorm and Mountain Twin are medium flexing and the Snowtrooper and Templar are medium-soft flexing.

      I think any of these would work well for you but I’d be leaning towards the Snowtrooper – just because it’s a nice easy to ride, easy going board but you can also carve on it and it rides pretty well in powder.

      For more options also check out my Top 10 All Mountain Snowboard list – I think this is the type of board you will want.

      ~ Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards

      Hope this helps

      Reply

28. André says

    January 24, 2017 at 1:50 am

    Hey Nate.

    Thanks for the update! For the Ride Agenda, do you know if the 2017 model differs from the 2016 one?

    Thank you for your time!
    André

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 24, 2017 at 3:54 pm

      Hi André

      Very little difference, between the 2 models. The only thing, as far as I know that’s different is that I think they added their slimewall tech to the sidewalls. This essentially makes the board a little “damper” so absorbs shock better. But that’s the only thing as far as I know. Either way both are equally good as beginner boards.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • André says

        February 18, 2017 at 2:16 am

        Thanks! It really does.
        Cheers,
        André

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 18, 2017 at 2:28 pm

          You’re very welcome André – hope you enjoy the rest of your season!

          Reply

29. Anne says

    January 30, 2017 at 1:27 pm

    Hi Nate! I’m looking to surprise my husband with a beginner board. He’s 5’10,175lb,sz 9 boot. Any specific recommendations for a board on icy/man-made/hard packed snow? Thanks for all your input and advice! Much appreciated!!!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 30, 2017 at 4:35 pm

      Hi Anne

      Awesome surprise!

      I would definitely go with the YES Basic. A great beginner and really good in hard and icy conditions. For your husband I would get him the 155cm (based on his height/weight/ability level).

      If you can’t find the Basic in the 155cm, let me know and I can think about another option that would be suitable – but if you can find that, I say go for it.

      Hope this helps.

      Reply

      • Anne says

        January 30, 2017 at 5:15 pm

        I definitely appreciate how helpful your reviews have been. It’s incredibly helpful to have your personal response to validate the right choice. Found the yes basic in 155, thank you again!!!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 31, 2017 at 2:39 pm

          Hey Anne

          You’re very welcome, again. Glad that you were able to find the Basic in the 155cm.

          Reply

          • Mike C says

            February 9, 2017 at 11:02 am

            I’m also looking at this board, but slightly shorter than Anne’s husband at 5′ 6″ and 130lbs with a size 9 boot. Should I be looking at a slightly shorter board (150?) and if I can’t find this board what are some alternatives? Also, I’ve seen the Burton LTR (learn to ride) boards on sale; any opinion on these boards for a beginner who will mainly spend time learning on man-made snow?

          • Nate says

            February 9, 2017 at 3:12 pm

            Hi Mike C

            In my opinion you should definitely go shorter than 155cm. I would say that something around a 145cm-146cm would be a good size for you as a beginner. The Basic does come in a 146cm, if you can find it in that size, that’s what I would recommend.

            I don’t really know much about the Burton LTR except that I think it’s a rental board. So I think you would be better off going for something else. Rental boards, in my experience, are often made to favor durability over other things.

            Let me know if you can’t find the Basic in the 146cm and I can look into some alternatives for you.

            Hope this helps

30. Jeffery says

    February 5, 2017 at 11:29 pm

    Hey Nate,
    Thank you for the review. I am completely new in the snowboarding world. And im just reading reviews on beginner boards. I see some boards out there that are on their list but not yours. I live in toronto, canada which is the east coast. Im around 173 but weigh around 90-100kg. Would the burton clash be a good board? Or what would you recommend for my conditions?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 6, 2017 at 4:47 pm

      Hi Jeffery

      There are certainly a number of boards that are good for beginners – and opinions differ as to which the best ones are – these are only 5 that I consider to be good beginner boards but there are more that I would recommend for beginners. For more options see the next link

      >>Beginner Snowboard Reviews Catalog Page

      In terms of the Clash, I wouldn’t recommend it for you. Whilst, I’ve never ridden East Coast, it does have a reputation for having harder conditions more often than not – and can often have icy snow. The Clash doesn’t have the best edge hold in those types of conditions.

      In terms of size, I’d say that you should look for something that’s around 155cm to 157cm. This is based on your height and weight and the fact that you are a beginner. Width is also an important factor – if you can let me know your boot size (or shoe size if you don’t have boots yet) and I can recommend a width range for you as well.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

31. ANTONIO says

    February 12, 2017 at 11:59 am

    Hello man!, Sorry for my english im spanish!

    I want ask to you 2 things, first, im totally begginer snowboarder, i had 2 class with a monitor, and i want buy mi first snowboard.

    Im a men with 1.86 cm and 89kg,and mi foot is a 45 EU(29), and i found Sight Salomon 2017 166WIDE with Custom Black Burton for 410 euros all the pack, do you recomendated to me buy this pack?

    Its oK 166w for me or i must try with another board more small like salomon pulse 162WIDE.

    I boutgh 2 weeks ago SALOMON DIALOGUE WIDE BLACK/AUTOBAHN/GREY 17

    thanks A LOT!

    Reply

    • ANTONIO says

      February 13, 2017 at 1:07 am

      I found, the SALOMON PULSE 2017 162WIDE for 210 euros, do you recomendated to me this? o need found one with 158-162 WIDE?

      Reply

      • Nate says

        February 13, 2017 at 10:46 am

        Hi Antonio

        I think the 162W would work. Probably the 160 or 158W slightly better but I think the 162W would be ok for you – also refer to my other comment from your last post.

        Reply

    • Nate says

      February 13, 2017 at 10:22 am

      Hi Antonio

      I think that the 166W will be too long for you. It will be very hard for you to ride a board that length as a beginner.

      The 162W pulse is a better size but I still think you could start on something a little shorter.

      Ideally you would start on something around 160cm.

      The Salomon Sight and the Salomon Pulse are both good beginner options but I would put you on the following sizes:

      Salomon Sight: Either 158W or 162W

      Salomon Pulse: Either 158W or 160

      I think the Pulse at 160 would be the best length for you – it is a regular width but it has a 256mm waist – assuming that you’re EUR45 boots translate to a US10.5 or 11.0 (which I think they do), then you should be fine on that width. But if you’re worried about them not being wide enough, then the 158W size will be fine and 162W would be the longest you should go.

      The Burton Custom bindings are great for beginners so I would definitely recommend them for you. But not the 166W. I think that would be too big for you and make it difficult to learn.

      Hope this helps.

      Reply

      • ANTONIO says

        February 14, 2017 at 12:31 am

        Thanks a lot!, people like you just are amazing, thanks for your help!

        I think like you, i must go for 158w, but the last question is, Salomon Sight or pulse? Both 158Wide, the diference is 50 euros, sight(250 euros), pulse (200euros)

        I prefer that i can learn fast and have board for when i increase a little more my level and dont need buy another borad.

        Reply

      • ANTONIO says

        February 14, 2017 at 12:40 am

        Sorry!. i forget put this!

        I found snowboard Burton Clash 2017 160wide, and the money isnt a prob..so

        158WIDE SALOMON SIGH
        158 W SALOMON PULSE OR
        Burton Clash 2017 160 WIDE?

        TONS OF THANKS!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 14, 2017 at 3:20 pm

          You’re very welcome Antonio

          If money isn’t a problem, then I’d say that either the Salomon Sight or the Burton Clash are your best options. They will take you further into your progression than the Pulse. And between those 2 I would say that the Clash 160W would be your best – only just, but I think it’s a slightly better size and it will be something that can take you to the next level. But either the Sight or the Clash would be good choices.

          Reply

32. Dmitriy says

    February 12, 2017 at 1:39 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thank you from me as well for your absolutely fantastic website! I’d like to ask you for advice too, if you have time for me 🙂

    So, I live in Germany and I’ve looked up the prices for most of the stuff from your beginners’ list and I’m still a bit confused. The general idea is to buy a board that can last for a relatively long time (so rather beginner – advanced one), so I’m ready to invest a bit more into it, shall it make sense. I’m (rather arbitrary) deciding between the Agenda and the Yes Basic.

    Short ‘biographic’ description:
    – skill: beginner (probably upper beginner – lower intermediate, one season behind me – but a really intensive one, private lessons etc)
    – style: not decided yet. For now probably all-mountain
    – height: 175cm
    – weight: ~ 65 kg
    – shoes size: 40.5 (EU). My last rental Burton boots were however (strangely) size 10

    Below you’ll find a list with the current local (Eur) prices for the 2017 models
    ride agenda 240
    capita horrorscope 280
    yes basic 320
    burton descendant 240
    burton blunt 252
    rome artifact rocker 250
    rome mechanic 220
    rossignol retox 480
    slash happy place 320
    rome factory rocker 250
    k2 standard 230
    ride crook 280
    rossignol templar 300

    I can also pick up the 2016 Ride Agenda for appr. 200 Eur as of now.

    I would appreciate your advice enormously!
    Kind regards
    Dmitriy

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 13, 2017 at 10:42 am

      Hi Dmitriy

      Thanks for your message.

      If you’re looking for a board that will last you a long time and think that all-mountain is the way that you are heading then I think the following from that list would be good choices.

      ~ Rossignol Templar

      ~ YES Basic

      ~ K2 Standard

      But since you have a season behind you have taken lessons, you are probably pretty close to intermediate level. So I would also suggest the following:

      ~ Slash Brainstorm

      ~ Burton Custom Flying V

      ~ Burton Process Flying V

      ~ Ride Manic

      ~ YES Typo

      If you’re willing to invest a bit in your board, then maybe the Ride Agenda not so much – just because it’s a freestyle board, so if you want to ride all-mountain it won’t be as good once you’re past the beginner phase.

      Also, just out of curiosity – is someone selling the Rossi Retox for €480? That retails for USD$399 – converting that to EUR it should be more like €380 – or was the 4 a typo?

      In terms of sizing I would say something between a 152cm and 154cm would work well for you. The shorter end will make it faster to progress on and the longer end will mean that it will be better once you are more advanced – assuming you stick with that all-mountain kind of style – this is generally speaking as sizing does somewhat depend on the particular board too. If you want a sizing recommendation for a particular board, let me know which board you are considering and I can recommend what I think is the best size for you.

      Anyway, hope this helps to give you some options.

      Reply

      • Dmitriy says

        February 13, 2017 at 2:46 pm

        Hi Nate,

        Thank you for a great and detailed reply!

        First things first – the pricing in Europe can sometimes be rather strange – so that wasn’t a typo (regarding the Rossi Retox).

        So, i’ve looked up your next recommendations:
        – slash brainstorm is too expensive (not really avail)
        – BURTON PROCESS FLYING V 2ND 2017 — around 350 Eur (what does the 2nd mean?)
        – Burton Custom Flying V — around 370 Eur
        – Ride Manic 2017 — (!) around 220 Eur
        – YES Typo — around 340 Eur

        So the Ride Manic looks very lucrative at this price tag, but I’ve read the specs – and it’s a directional board, so I’m a bit uneasy about learning to ride switch (i don’t know whether my fear has any solid ground, though).

        Looking forward to your advice, thanks a lot!

        Reply

        • Dmitriy says

          February 14, 2017 at 5:00 am

          I’ve decided to go with the YES Typo (152) and K2 Lien FS (size L) – does that make sense? Also, I’m shopping for the boots now 🙂 any recommendations are enormously welcome, thank you!

          Reply

          • Nate says

            February 14, 2017 at 3:47 pm

            Hi Dmitriy

            I think that will be a great setup for you. I was leaning towards the Typo for you too. I also think the Lien FS will go well and the L size (for K2 bindings) will work. I think for most bindings you would be better on a medium but for K2s sizings, the L works.

            In terms of boots, check out the links below. I think the beginner boots list would be a good place to start but if you wanted to go a bit of a step up, then you could go to the freestyle link too – they’re stated as freestyle but they can definitely be used for all-mountain riding too – they’re just softer flexing all mountain boots than some.

            ~ My Top 7 Beginner Snowboard Boots

            ~ My Top 5 Freestyle Snowboard Boots

        • Nate says

          February 14, 2017 at 11:22 am

          Hi Dmitriy

          You’re very welcome.

          I wouldn’t say that the Manic is easy to learn switch on. It’s ok but there are definitely easier boards for switch riding – it’s directional and it’s also got a 20mm setback. The Manic is probably the lowest in terms of quality out of the boards I mentioned (which is probably partly the reason for the low price tag) but it should be fine for a beginner/intermediate rider.

          Out of those boards, in terms of riding switch, the Typo and the Process Flying V would be the easiest for switch, with the Custom Flying V in between the Manic and those two.

          The other option you could go with (sorry for giving you more options!) is an all-mountain-freestyle board. Will be very easy to ride switch but you sacrifice performance in powder generally speaking – you can definitely still ride them in powder – but they will take more effort than an all mountain board in powder, generally speaking. Some options for all-mountain-freestyle boards that are also good for beginners and at a relatively low price:

          ~ YES Basic (which was also from your list earlier)

          ~ Capita Outerspace Living

          There are certainly other options but the price goes up a bit after that. But you could also check out the following list.

          ~ My Top 5 All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

          The other thing to save costs to try to look for a 2016 model, if you can find one.

          But yeah, if you do want a good all-mountain board that is decent in powder but also for riding switch and also easy to ride switch, then I would say the YES Typo or Burton Process Flying V. Or if you’re not too concerned about having just average powder performance but easy switch riding, then the YES Basic or Capita Outerspace Living. This is narrowing down to the less pricey options. There are other suitable options but the price starts to go up.

          Hope this helps to get your decision right.

          Reply

          • Dmitriy says

            February 14, 2017 at 12:23 pm

            Awesome, thanks.

            So what would you say to the YES Typo (size 152), k2 lien fs (size L) – for my 175 cm height, 65 kg weight (currently :D) and shoe size EU 40.5 ? 🙂

            Thank you!

          • Nate says

            February 14, 2017 at 4:05 pm

            Hey Dmitriy

            As per my other comment – I think that’s a really good setup for you. I’ve given you some links to boot options in the other comment too.

          • Dmitriy says

            February 20, 2017 at 3:23 am

            Hey Nate,

            So, my YES Typo is wating for me at hope in the box – together with the Lien FS 🙂

            However, I got a bit scared about the following issue: the YES sizing guideline https://yesnowboard.com/support/sizing-guidelines says :

            ”
            Remember; the traditionally accepted width of boards was established when the average foot size was an US 8 / MONDO 21.5 or an US 9 / MONDO 24.0. Now the bulk of boot sales are a US men’s 10 / MONDO 26.5. Which means anyone riding a regular width board with a size US 10 / MONDO 26.5 is dragging their toes. And if they’re not dragging their toes, then they’re not leaning over on their turns enough and they’re missing out on some fun.

            We at YES. encourage you to have fun when you snowboard. We want you to feel joy. Aren’t we awesome?

            In conclusion: If you have a size US 10-10.5 / MONDO 26.5-27.5 boot, then please, seriously consider a wide. If you have a size US 11 / MONDO 28.5 boot, do not ever consider anything other than a wide when looking at these “traditional” models.
            ”

            What would you say about that?

            Also, I’m a bit at a loss about the sizings, your snowboard width guide also says that 27 cm (which is the same as mondo, as far as I understand) corresponds to EU size 42 – which is strange, as I wear EU 40 – 41 and my measurements yield 26.5 – 27 cm. Anyway, this is at odds with the YES statement (US 10 – 10.5 = 26.5 – 27 mondo).

            Could you clarify this bit – and I do hope I don’t have to get a wider board 😀

            Thank you a lot!

          • Nate says

            February 20, 2017 at 5:36 pm

            Hi Dmitriy

            I’m not sure where they get their mondo figures from – everywhere else has a US 10 with a 28cm Mondo. YES don’t make boots so I’m not sure.

            In terms of the European measurements and how that converts I won’t claim I’m entirely accurate on that conversion. There is conflicting information regarding what an EU converts to in a US size – and also some brands boots are different to others in this regard. My table was using the figures that seemed the most accurate to me.

            All that said, assuming that you are in what is the equivalent of a US 9 you won’t have issues with toe drag. I have US size 10s and I’m happy on a 250mm waist (which your Typo has) and don’t drag my toes on a carve. Maybe if you’re getting right down for a euro-carve you might get it – but your average rider isn’t euro-carving!

            Basically, all said, I wouldn’t be worried about the width of your Typo – I think it will be just right for you.

            I get what they’re saying in that sizing guide (first time I’ve seen that) but there are some discrepancies there (like they’re mondo measurements) and also if this is the case I wonder why their regular width boards aren’t made wider than other brands regular width boards?

            Anyway I hope this helps and like I say I really wouldn’t be worried about this at all – your board should be about the perfect width for your boots.

33. Swampy says

    February 14, 2017 at 2:06 pm

    Hi Nate,

    I’m a beginner snowboarder, currently just learning the basics but I can’t help but think that having my own gear would help me progress, than having to cater for the difference in setup each week when hiring gear at my local snowsports centre..

    I ride goofy so either having to readjust bindings, and stance each week.. or just going with the centre stance which isn’t always ideal has caused me some pain in my feet on occasions. Not to mention different types (and length) of board from one week to the next depending on availability doesn’t help much for consistency either.. I figured if I get my own gear, then I can get it set up just right.. and that’s one constant from one week to the next.

    So I’ve been looking around for my own first setup and pretty much narrowed my choices down to the Salomon Sight or the K2 Raygun 2107. Though I’m leaning more towards the Raygun at present..

    The thing putting me off the Sight just slightly is my weight.. I’m a big guy at around 120KGs and 178cm tall. With Size 10 (UK) Feet. With the sight being soft to medium flex, and only available upto 159cms in standard width I’m not sure if it would be the right board for me?

    While the K2 Raygun, is generally stiffer I figured my weight would offset some of that stiffness potentially? It’s also available upto 162cms long which from my reading is more suited to my weight?

    Would you say there’s much wrong with my line of thinking?

    Oh and I’m looking to screw some K2 Cinch TS bindings to whichever board I go for…

    Cheers

    Reply

    • Swampy says

      February 15, 2017 at 2:23 pm

      In addition to my previous post.. I’ve just been fitted today out with some Thirty Two BOA STW Boots Size 10.5 (UK) today. Now this is going to mean that if I do go with the K2 Cinch TS Binding, I think I’d have to go with Size XL…

      Now I’m not sure if this is going to mean I’ll need to go with a wide board…

      Reply

      • Nate says

        February 15, 2017 at 4:39 pm

        Hi Stompy

        I think your line of thinking is pretty good, to be honest.

        You’re right that if your weight is over the weight recommendations for a board that it will soften the feeling of the flex of that board. So I do often recommend beginners who above the weight recommendations to go a step up in flex to medium – because it will actually feel like a medium soft to you.

        I think that the Raygun would be a good choice. Everything about the board is suited for a beginner except that it has a medium flex – which is ok but not ideal for a beginner. However, I think the Raygun would feel more like a medium-soft in the size that I would recommend.

        I think you will need to go wide and I think the 160W (265mm waist) would be a good size for you. I think lengthwise anything from 160-162cm is good for you and with UK10.5s the 161 would be too narrow.

        Having your own gear is great for a number of reasons – but you’ve pointed out perhaps the most important reason – consistency of gear and consistency in sizing everytime you ride. It’s a big advantage.

        And yeah for the K2 Cinch TS bindings your best size would be the XL. You may or may not get into the Ls but it’s not worth the risk.

        Hope this answers your questions and helps with your decision

        Reply

        • Swampy says

          February 16, 2017 at 4:33 pm

          Hi Nate,

          Thanks for the detailed reply.. it’s great to know I’m am actually absorbing the stuff I’m being told and hearing that I’m generally making the right choices..

          Sadly for me though, my local supplier has sold out of.. well pretty much all wides other than the 157W in the Raygun.. so I’m going to have to trawl a few websites and stuff (or wait and hope they get some more in stock). There was a nice discount deal going on at present on the boards/binding packages too… no surprises they’ve been flying off the shelves then.. and all for 0.5 cms worth of comfort on my boots lol!

          Thanks again for the pointers.. you site has been a great resource for this learner!

          Cheers,
          Swampy

          Reply

          • Nate says

            February 17, 2017 at 3:50 pm

            You’re very welcome Swampy. Hope you can find something in stock soon.

34. Vito says

    February 17, 2017 at 1:46 am

    Hi Nate,

    I am a beginner snowboarder. The last time I went snowboarding was 7 years ago and I spent a total of 12 days on the snow. I had started linking turns, but wasn’t of course that great.

    I have just recently started practicing again at the snow dome and on Dendix at the local dry slope. My first lesson was with a rental board, completely rocker and 151 in length and I had little problems making wide linked turns. I then went to the mountains and due to the icy/rocky conditions and the narrow usable portion of the slopes, I was very afraid of turning on my toes and picking up speed.

    I would like to concentrate on my technique and practice at my own pace and I was wondering if my current snowboard is an ok option, or if it would be better to get something else. I am 5″ 9.3′ (176 cm) tall and 150 lbs and I own a 2009 K2 Darkstar 155 (The Good Wood Award winner). It is a standard camber board, I would say medium soft and it has a sintered base. Should I stick with this and practice more at the local dry slope since there is more friction and the board is slower than on real snow, or should I get something easier to maneuver like the Yes Basic, maybe slightly shorter as well?

    Thanks a lot.

    Vito

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 17, 2017 at 4:12 pm

      Hi Vito

      Thanks for your message.

      Traditional camber boards aren’t the easiest to learn on – they can be very catchy if your technique isn’t that good yet. I mean all boards used to be that way and people figured it out – but there are better options now. It takes longer to progress and longer to get your confidence if you start on an all camber board (IMO).

      The 155cm isn’t too long for you – but ideally as a beginner I’d prefer to see you on something like a 152cm or 153cm give or take.

      The medium-soft aspect of the Darkstar is good for beginners but I think all that Camber will make it a slow learner.

      You could stick it out on the Darkstar but personally I would get something easier to ride – I think you’ll gave more fun, you’ll progress faster and your confidence will increase at a faster rate. And yeah taking off a couple of centimeters in length won’t hurt either.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • John says

        February 17, 2017 at 10:15 pm

        Nate,
        Great write up. Thanks for all the insight. Here is a curve ball for you. I am tipping the scales at a healthy 200lbs and just hit 45years old. No crazy tricks for this guy, just cruising with the kiddos. With that in mind I was focusing on the RIde and Yes that you identified in your post. Any further recommendations between the two based on my age and build? FWIW I have a good bit of experience on skis and wakeboard. North east riding in the states so conditions are usually hard pack or ice.
        Thanks again
        John

        Reply

        • John says

          February 18, 2017 at 7:04 am

          One more thing, neither my skiing or wakeboard experience seem to help me whatsoever with snowboarding..lousy and sore, but determined!
          John

          Reply

          • Nate says

            February 18, 2017 at 2:48 pm

            🙂 Don’t be ashamed to get padded shorts – I did after breaking my tail bone overshooting the landing on a jump – and they’re nice to have even just for confidence if nothing else – and if you’re in icy conditions even little falls can be painful.

        • Nate says

          February 18, 2017 at 2:27 pm

          Hi John

          If I was you I would go for the YES Basic. Just because it is better in icy conditions than the Agenda. It’s the best in those conditions on this list.

          In terms of size I am thinking the 158cm just based on weight alone. But height is a factor in length too. So if you could let me know your height and also your boot size (if you don’t have boots yet, then your foot length or shoe size will be ok). With this I can give you a more accurate size recommendation.

          Another good beginner suitable board option for those conditions is the GNU Carbon Credit – I can also recommend you a size for that once I get that extra info.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

35. John says

    February 18, 2017 at 8:52 pm

    Nate,
    Thanks for the reply.
    Done, rear end pads added to the list!
    I’m 5’9” and wear a 10.5-11 shoe size. (I don’t know how they sized me at the rental shop). Hope that helps.
    If you have any others recommendations, please let me know.
    Thanks again!
    John

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 19, 2017 at 1:55 pm

      Hi John

      Thanks for the extra info. I think something between a 155 and 158 would be a good length. In terms of width I wouldn’t want to go narrower than a 254mm waist at this point, not knowing if you will have 10.5 or 11.0 boots. If 10.5 then you could get down to a 252mm waist but I wouldn’t risk that at this stage. But you also don’t want to go too wide – so no more than a 260-261mm waist either.

      Keeping all that in mind and your height weight specs:

      ~ YES Basic 156W (259mm waist)

      ~ GNU Carbon Credit 156 (254mm waist) – the 156W is quite wide probably a bit too wide for you. You could go up to the 159 but that would be potentially too long – would certainly make it more difficult to ride than the 156.

      Some other options (good on ice, good for beginners/intermediate level) would be the following:

      ~ Niche Aether 156cm (258mm waist)

      ~ Rossignol Templar Magtek 156W (259mm waist)

      ~ YES Typo 156W (259mm waist)

      Hope this gives you some good options.

      Reply

      • John says

        February 19, 2017 at 8:35 pm

        Nate,
        What can I say other than thank you for your time. I really appreciate it. Coming in cold to the snowboard gig, I don’t know where to turn first.
        I am guessing the Wide boards are better for accommodating my weight while keeping it on the short side that will make it easier to maneuver for a rookie like me…right? It’s unlikely I would be able to ride any of these before I buy it. Thanks for the options! I’ll try to some research of my own before I buy. By the way, what’s us with the Aether wiggly sides?

        Thanks for all the help! I will let you how it goes.
        John

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 20, 2017 at 5:07 pm

          You’re very welcome John.

          Going for the wider options is mostly to do with foot-size. Ideally you want your toes to be at the edge of the board and your heels to be right on the edge of the board (this is your feet) naturally that will mean that your boots overhang the edges of the board a little bit. But we don’t want them to overhang too much or you risk toe or heel drag (which will likely cause you to wipe out!).

          The widths that I am suggesting is trying to make it so that the boards aren’t too narrow for you (which would lead to excessive overhang) but also aren’t too wide – if the board is too wide then it becomes physically quite hard to initiate a turn and makes turns slower. That extra width does add stability but we want to strike a balance between stability and maneuverability.

          Your length is a factor of your height, weight, ability level and (if you’re more advanced) your style of riding. That’s the basis behind my size recommendations. But you are correct that if you were to go wider then shortening up the ride would make up for lost maneuverability of the extra width. But in your case the widths of these boards should be a good fit with your foot length – so you don’t need to make up for lost maneuverability.

          The slightly shorter length is mostly to do with being a beginner. It’s easier to ride a shorter board so it’s a good idea to take off a couple of centimeters when you’re starting out.

          The wiggly edges on the Aether is what’s called “magne-traction” or their version of it. What this is is basically like a serrated edge and what it does is adds extra contact points to the edges for better grip in hard/icy conditions. A lot of boards use this or something similar – but it’s not as obvious in the pictures. For some reason it’s more obvious in the images of the Niche boards that have it.

          Look forward to hearing what you go with

          Reply

          • John says

            February 24, 2017 at 7:59 pm

            Nate,
            Here is an update. I head into the local shop and as you may expect, they have a limited selection of boards and even less boots. One pair that seemed to fit. size 11. The salesman was going on about the reduced footprint. Should this impact my board choice… or should I continue to focus on the wide boards?
            The Yes Typo seemed to be sold out everywhere but I did find a Niche Aether.
            Thanks Nate in advance for your advice!

          • Nate says

            February 25, 2017 at 4:45 pm

            Hi John

            Even with the low profile boots I think that the boards we looked at are still appropriate. What we looked at were more mid-wide in terms of width. That said, with low profile boots you should be able to get onto something narrower if you needed to – but it doesn’t change your foot size which is what is really important for maximum width. We don’t want your maximum width to be too wide for your feet and we don’t want your minimum width to be too narrow for your boots. So what those low profilers do is stretch your minimum – so you can go narrower but you don’t have too. Your maximum stays where it is. Hope that makes sense.

            I would say that your new minimum is around 252mm but your maximum would stay around that 260mm mark.

            Anyway, I think the Niche Aether is a good pick. I also find that Niche boards, which are designed to be a little wider, tend to feel narrower than they actually are (not sure how they do that but that’s certainly the way they feel to ride, IMO).

            Hope this helps.

          • John says

            March 6, 2017 at 7:56 pm

            Nate,
            Update.
            I made it back out this weekend. Much better experience. I was linking turns and really enjoying the day. Also paying close attention to the rental equipment. I manages to rent a new pair of size 11 Burton boots. Standing straight up, my toes were crunched. Once in the right position they felt good.
            They put me on a 150 Burton and it was rather hard to turn. I really had to swing my hips into each cut. I switched things up to a 155 wide, also a Burton but a little newer and the turning was actually easier. Also on my falls with the 150, my toes were getting jammed because they were over the edge of the board more than an inch.
            Typical hard and icy day in the east. I am heading to check out the local dealers who carry a few brands Never Summer being one. Do you have any beginner board recommendations with that manufacturer.

          • Nate says

            March 7, 2017 at 11:42 am

            Hi John.

            In terms of the boots I wouldn’t say having them crunched when standing normally is ideal – you will be wearing them when not in riding position at times. They should be touching the ends but you also want to be able to walk in them and eat lunch etc. But if it wasn’t uncomfortable outside of riding position then that’s fine.

            150 is definitely too small for you – and the waist on a shorter board is usually narrower too – so that board would have also been way too narrow for you (as it sounds like you experienced).

            As far as Never Summer goes I wouldn’t say that the Snowtrooper would be the best beginner board option – and the best size for you for that board would be the 157X.

          • John says

            March 17, 2017 at 9:55 am

            Nate,
            At the risk our wearing out my welcome…here I go.
            Based on your reviews, I picked up a pair of zx-500 boots (size 11) with the reduced footprint and they feel great. Thank you!

            Now on to the board. The vendors in the expanded area have the following available boards.
            Capita DOA 156
            Niche Aether 153 (on line)
            Yes Typo 155 and 158

            None of these are a perfect match or true wide boards. I’d appreciate your order of recommendation based on prior posts.
            200lbs, 5’9″, and actually improving pretty well for East Coast conditions.

            They also have a set of Rodeo bindings in Large for a discounted price.

            Thanks for all your time and prior responses, they have served me very well so far…particularly the butt pad!

            John

          • Nate says

            March 17, 2017 at 2:36 pm

            Hi John

            You are still very welcome. Glad you are getting good use out of the butt pad. I was very thankful for mine this morning when I wiped out off a box in the park!

            In terms of those 3 boards I would probably be leaning towards the Aether and the Typo – for two reasons. The main one being that the DOA is quite an aggressive board and would be a little bit too advanced at this stage, IMO. The other reason being that the Aether and Typo are better in hard/icy conditions. And I think the Typo is the best bet there. The main reason is that I think that the 153cm Aether is probably getting a little bit too short. The 156cm Aether I would have said go for that.

            So I think the Typo is the way to go. Great edge-hold in hard and icy conditions and a board that is suitable for beginners but also for more advanced riders once you progress. I would say go for the 155 length at this stage. This does only have a 251mm waist width and usually I would say that this is too narrow for size 11s. However, the reduced footprint on Adidas boots is best in the business at the moment (even better on the 2017 models if you got one of those) so I would say you have the outersole of a size 10. I ride with a size 10 and I find that kind of width is fine and I ride boards with similar widths regularly without issue.

            You could go 158cm too but I think that on balance the 155 is the slightly better size for you, especially if you’re just going to be cruising with the kids – as it sounds like it from a previous comment. The 158cm would be better at speed and have more float in powder but it would also be a steeper learning curve and wouldn’t be as easy to slow down and cruise with (it’s a fairly cruisey board anyway so you still could but just not quite as well).

            I think Ride Rodeos would work well with your set up and Large is the appropriate size for you.

            Hope this helps with your decision

36. Roger says

    February 25, 2017 at 8:03 am

    Hi! i’m Roger from Barcelona(Spain) . I need some tips for my buying.
    My specs: Height 1.74cm, 63kg without equipment, 43/44 shoe (10 US)
    I’m beginner, I only ride 4 times. I like the equipment style groomer, to go fast and carving, sometimes little jumps and powder (This is the idea) And have the same equipment for years, and don’t need to change next season or next next season, if is possible 🙂

    I like the ride agenda, but with your chart to search the table size, my perfect size are 155cm,if I’m begginer 3 or 5cm off.

    The result is the 152cm ride agenda, but searching on the official website, I insert all heigh, weight,boots and say my ideal board 159 agenda.

    Your confirm my 1st size (152) or you thing another for me?

    I look for complete the equipment the union flite pro bindings and boots (Vans hi standard (more bigger than moto) or burton moto) depent the windth of the table,no? IF is too thin, is better 156 or 153W?

    the windth on riding what change or feeling?

    Thanks a lot, and you see correct the all package o you select another bindings/boots?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 26, 2017 at 9:08 am

      Hi Roger

      I think personally that the 152cm will be the best size for you as a beginner. You could try the 159cm if you wanted but I think that would be a very difficult board to ride at your weight. I think even as an advanced rider that would be too long for you – unless it was a specialist powder board.

      I don’t know why the Ride finder comes back with a 159. The only thing I can think of is that the finder deems the 152cm as being too narrow for your boots. The 249mm waist width would be borderline too narrow. I think you could get away with it – but to be on the safe side you could definitely go 153W – that would be way better than the 159, IMO.

      If you really want something longer, then the 156cm would be the very longest I would go if I was you.

      Long story short:

      If you go for the Burton Moto (smaller outersole) then I think the 152cm is the best option. You could also go for the 156cm. In my opinion, the 156 would be harder to learn on – but it would be better in powder and for stability at speed – it might be more suitable in a couple of years – the trade off is that you will progress slower.

      If you go for the Vans Hi Standard boots (not as small an outersole as the Motos) then I think the 153W would be the best size.

      The width of the 153W will change the feeling somewhat but it will be fine for you boot size. It will give a bit more stability underfoot but can reduce edge-to-edge speed.

      In terms of bindings there’s nothing wrong with going for a package – I guess it just depends on the bindings that are part of the package. Union Flite pros are great beginner bindings and will last you for a good while, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Roger says

        February 26, 2017 at 1:18 pm

        Thanks for your reply!

        The Ride finder only go down in size if I put 56kg, if put down boots or height no change, only with this weight go to 152 board.

        I like the 152 idea with Burton Moto boots, but You think no problem with it?

        I thing 249 waist and 280mm (feet without boot) +1cm for the boot ( I think). 290cm (feet and boot) – 249mm = 41mm = 4,1 cm

        Is 2cm per side, i read your post about board size/boots and you tell the best is 1 cm per side.

        The problem in spain is difficult to find the ride agenda, and I need to see in andorra, and 1 shop with the two size (152 and 153w) is more difficult haha.

        I thinki to buy first burton moto, later bindings size M (Correct) and later with the two things go to the shops haha 🙂

        Thanks a lot, i believe in you

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 27, 2017 at 10:16 am

          Hi Roger

          Yeah I’m not entirely convinced about their finder tool – the size doesn’t adjust for different ability levels. I stuck advanced in there and it comes back with the same size. It also doesn’t account for where you like to ride – powder, groomers, park. When I put park in there it comes back with different boards but the same size as groomers and powder and powder the same as groomers. If I put the height down, it doesn’t adjust. And the weight, like you say, has to go all the way down to 56kg to change – and if you put in 59kg it doesn’t even come back with an Agenda option – not the 156? What weight would you have to be for the 156cm?

          Anyway, that’s not important.

          In terms of width, 2cm per side is actually perfectly fine. Somewhere between 1cm per side and 2cm per side is ideal.

          You could certainly buy the boots and bindings first and take them in to check them on the board if you wanted. This would give you more certainty.

          For Burton Moto 10s I agree that M is the best size for Burton bindings. But if you go with a different brand of bindings it could be either M or L. Check out the post below for the different brands binding sizings.

          >>Snowboard Binding Sizing

          Reply

          • Roger says

            February 28, 2017 at 11:42 am

            Perfect.

            I read Side cut radius, and I understand, tha top plate is little thin than down plate, With this have a little more mm to play with boot, right?

            If waist is 149mm, the down plate is possible 150or152 depend the dge , correct?

            And the cm for side (about boots) is with down plate reference, no?

            Thanks, and I have a clear concept

          • Nate says

            March 1, 2017 at 2:50 pm

            Hi Roger

            If I’m understanding you correctly your saying that the width on the topsheet (top plate) of the board is narrower than it is on the base (down plate) of the board – this is correct. And yes centimeters per side is in reference to the width on the base (down plate). But the waist width measurement is also taken from the base of the board.

          • Roger says

            February 28, 2017 at 11:48 am

            I see the ride agenda 2017 152 for 280€ and yes basic 2017 319e

          • Nate says

            March 1, 2017 at 2:53 pm

            In terms of learning on I think the Ride Agenda is slightly ahead but not by much – but in terms of overall quality of board I think that the Basic is a bit better.

            So, if you were willing to pay a little extra, then the Basic is a good option, IMO.

37. Roger says

    April 3, 2017 at 7:54 am

    Hi again Nate!

    I ride some days with the agenda, and all good, I learn a lot. Then i look a litlle defect in my board, and is possible the sho change for other o retunr the money.

    I learn to link toe turns and heel turns in blue/red tracks(not try full red tracks) I move good.

    Then one day with a powder night, the tracks are powded, and with the pass of ski people and other, make bumps. In this conditions Is hard to ride, a lot of power on muscles to ride, I try setback, more stance, diferents angles, but I need a lot of power, and with 2 rides, i need to relax.

    This is for the board or is normal?

    IN this point, I think in another better board, yes basic?

    My preferences is groomed tracks, and make some little/medium jumps, carving and run in powder.

    What board recomend?

    Thanks a lot

    Reply

    • Nate says

      April 3, 2017 at 4:57 pm

      Hi Roger

      When it comes to uneven bumpy terrain, like you’re describing it’s usually a combination of the snowboard and the technique.

      Some snowboards are better at tackling uneven terrain than others, for sure, but without the right technique on uneven terrain you will also have trouble there.

      There is a more advanced snowboarding technique called “down un-weighted turns”. These types of turns are better for bumpy terrain. Your best bet to learn them is by taking a lesson and asking a snowboard instructor to teach you but you could also look it up on the internet at first if you want but it will be more effective to actually have someone show you this.

      But if you are able to exchange boards and want something that is better in uneven terrain, I think that the YES Basic is better in uneven conditions. So changing boards will help – but if you really want to navigate those types of conditions effectively you’ll also need to work on technique too.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Roger says

        April 14, 2017 at 3:36 pm

        Thanks Nate,
        I stay 3 days of pure snowboard with the ride agenda, i try red tracks, i learn alot, link toe and he