First Time Snowboarding … Is It Difficult?
The lack of snowboarding skills shouldn’t deter you from trying this sport. A lot of people stop their snowboarding activity on the first day. If you keep at it, your skill level will exponentially increase within the first week.
Board sports require a lot of balance and coordination. Athletic individuals with strong legs and a strong core find it easier to reach more advanced levels. Having some experience with other snow sports, especially skiing, can also be a big help.
Having a good snowboard instructor and quality pieces of gear will help as well.
How To Prep for a First Snowboarding Trip?
Your snowboarding journey begins when you start planning your trip because a lot of careful planning often goes into these types of adventures, especially if your snowboarding destination is abroad. Here is a quick look at the types of preparations you will need to make before you can leave for your trip.
Winter sports travel insurance
It is good to get winter sports travel insurance since this type of insurance will cover losses or damages to any rented or owned skiing or snowboarding equipment. This type of insurance might also pay out in case you are unable to go snowboarding due to weather conditions or a lack of snow.
A corona pass
In many countries and at many winter sports resorts, you will need a corona pass to enter. In addition to getting your shots, you might want to get this pass and keep it in your air pocket to ease travels.
Passport and visas
If you are crossing into another country or perhaps into a stricter state, then you will need a passport and visa. It is a good idea to apply for these travel documents well in advance because they do often take a long time to process.
What Kind of Snowboard Equipment Do I Need?
You need to have quality protective gear for snow sports. Luckily, every winter resort has a rental shop that provides the right snowboard equipment for newbies. The rental gear is usually made of cotton layers and synthetic materials meant to keep you warm enough without stifling your movement.
In addition to the rental equipment, you also need a proper base layer (these are your own clothes):
- Wear two pairs of socks. Having thin cotton socks as a base and wool socks over them will ensure that your feet remain dry
- You should put underwear bottoms over your boxers. They will provide additional water protection
- Waterproof pants or snow pants made from soft, flexible material are ideal for snowboarding since they will keep you nice and dry and will help block out chilly winds.
- Wearing thermal underwear like thermal tights or thermal vests is a great idea if you generally live in a warm climate. It can be very hard to get used to the change in weather when you go from a warmer climate to extreme cold. That extra thermal layer under your clothes will make a huge difference.
- You will also need aquality snow jacket to wear over your base layer clothing. Look for a snow jacket that offers good wind and water protection, and is nice and light yet thickly padded to keep your body insulated.
- Beginner snowboarders often make the mistake of wearing cotton or synthetic material hoodies—however, we strongly recommend a wool or fleece sweater.
- Lastly, you will need a polyester or fleece beanie hat
Next, you will have to go to the ski shop and get the following snowboarding gear:
- Proper snow pants that are fully water-resistant
- Snowboard boots or ski boots will provide an additional layer of protection to your feet
- Ski gloves will prevent loss of flexibility in hands and fingers
- Ski goggles will protect your eyes from snow
- A snowboarding jacket is meant to keep you warm, protecting you from water and ice
- A great snowboard
Lastly, you will also need good safety gear to prevent common injuries:
- Snowboarding helmets are probably the most crucial piece of equipment as they prevent head injuries
- Wrist guards are the best way to avoid a broken wrist
- Knee pads and butt pads are especially important
- The stomp pad provides additional control of the snowboard
- Water supplies. It is entirely possible to become dehydrated in snowy weather andeating snow won’t help you stay hydrated at all. Take along a warm water bottle to help keep your water levels high.
Will I Experience a Lot of Pain (During and After) Snowboarding?
Snowboarding requires both physical and mental preparation.
Some people are quickly dissuaded after falling a few times. Snowboarding can hurt and even lead to injuries. Beginners are often covered in bruises—so that is something you should anticipate. But, it is very unlikely that you will suffer a serious injury as you will go slow during the initial classes.
Nevertheless, you should expect some pain after the first few classes. Always remember that snowboarding utilizes specific groups of muscles. Even if you’re in great shape, there is a chance of cramps and soreness. Protective gear should help with bruising, but won’t do anything for inflammation.
How Do You Physically Prepare for Snowboarding?
Although snowboarding is a cool thing to do, you shouldn’t underestimate the physical requirements needed for this winter sport.
Your chance of success on the slopes will be directly connected to your physical shape. Muscle strength affects balance and will allow you to stay on the slope longer. In fact, even some simple tasks such as standing up when seated can be really fatiguing for individuals who are in poor shape.
If you wish to prepare for this activity, you will need to focus on squats. This particular exercise will help you develop the most important muscles for snowboarding. Glutes, core, and legs are all equally important for this winter sport.
Besides squats, you might also include lunges, sit-ups, calf raises, and planks. Contrary to popular opinion, physically demanding sports are not the best way to prepare for snowboarding. Flexibility and stability is the name of the game. You will have much better results if you go to yoga or capoeira before hitting the slopes.
Five Beginner Snowboarding Tips You Need to Follow
There are a few things you should always keep in mind as a beginner:
Tip 1: Make Sure to Get a Good Snowboard Instructor
You should never underestimate how difficult snowboarding is. Even if you wish to save some money—you shouldn’t try to save it on the instructor.
As mentioned, if you have a good teacher, you will be able to learn the basics much quicker. Because of that, the whole experience will be more fulfilling and you are less likely to suffer an injury along the way. A good instructor will pay attention to details and point out small mistakes (that can help you avoid big problems later on).
Going with one-on-one lessons is usually unnecessary and can be a bit expensive. Instead, you might consider group classes. Going with a group has its advantages, especially when it comes to learning from—not just your own mistakes—but everyone’s.
Furthermore, if you’re taking classes on weekdays, you can go with a group and it is unlikely to be filled. You might even get a one-on-one class without having to pay extra.
Tip 2: Weekdays Are the Best Time to Start
Although most beginners don’t want to admit this, seeing a slope full of people can be intimidating. The biggest reason why you should go on the mountain during weekdays is that there are simply fewer people. During weekends, especially if it’s a peak season, slopes can be very crowded. This can be annoying, even for veterans.
While the fear of hitting someone is completely normal, it all comes down to learning technique and proper, safe execution.
Things can be worse on smaller hills designed for beginners. They are often full of other beginners who are learning the fundamentals. The ideal time to practice is when there are not many people around.
Tip 3: Learn How to Stand Up
As funny as it may sound, learning how to stand up is the hardest thing when it comes to snowboarding. When you try to do it, your feet will be strapped to a snowboard making it very physically demanding. But, it also has to do with technique and balance.
When you try to stand up, the board might start sliding away. You will rise and fall several times if you don’t get this technique right. Of course, it all comes down to practice, but you shouldn’t neglect the importance of strong muscles.
Once you nail this, you should learn how to balance your body so that you don’t lean too much. The basic techniques also include slowing and stopping.
Tip 4: Handling the Ski Lift
Another thing that might be scary is the ski lift. First off, people who are scared of heights might find this ride to be very uncomfortable. While it isn’t a big drop, it will still make you think twice. Sometimes, beginners are scared of what might happen if the ski lift stops and they’re stuck at a certain height for a longer period of time.
You will also have to wear the snowboard as you go up. In other words, one foot will be free and the second one will be attached to the snowboard. Having all the weight on one foot can be very unpleasant if you’re not used to it.
You might also struggle a bit as you exit the lift. Luckily, even if you fall, lift operators will stop the lift as needed.
Tip 5: Never Fall on Wrists
Like with acrobatic activities, learning how to fall is crucial for new snowboarders.
No matter what, falling on your wrists is the last thing you want. This is an easy part of the body to injure when snowboarding if you are not careful. Wrist strains, sprains, and breaks are very common for people who don’t learn how to properly fall.
Basically, you will need to fall backward. Make sure that your arms are tucked and that you fall on your gluteus. You will have strong pads that can absorb the blow. If you start falling on your stomach and can’t control it, make sure to fall on your forearms and knees.
Last Considerations Before Hitting the Slopes
The most important thing is to stay safe.
Regardless of these tips, you need to focus on protecting the body from potential injuries. A small sprain will not only ruin your chances of learning how to snowboard, but it will ruin your vacation, period.
How Long Does It Take to Learn to Snowboard—Can You Do It in One Winter?
If you’ve visited winter resorts often, you’ve probably wondered—how long does it take to learn to snowboard? Wasting the whole winter season on beginner-level lessons is probably something you don’t want to do.
The art of snowboarding takes years and years to master. It isn’t something you can do in a couple of days. Nevertheless, first-time snowboarders can get a hang of this winter sport after a few basic lessons. This is especially true if you took ski lessons in the past.
In this section, we will provide a few tips for beginner snowboarders that should hasten the learning process.
How Long Does It Take to Learn to Snowboard?
Your ability to learn snowboarding mostly depends on your skill level with otherboard sports. If you know how to skateboard or surf, you will have an extra edge over other beginners. Even beginner skiers will have a much easier time compared to people who’ve never tried winter sports. If you belong to this group, you might learn snowboarding basics within a day.
Anyway, it usually takes three to four days for a fit person to get used to the bunny slope. You might still fall, but you will be able to finish this beginner slope. People with extra body weight or those who are inactive will have a harder time and are more likely to experience sore muscles.
Sometimes, though, it simply comes down to talent and desire.
Important factors in learning how to snowboard
The speed at which you’ll learn how to snowboard depends on a few factors:
Good Conditioning and Flexibility
Body position, leg, and core strength are the foundation of snowboarding. While snowboard lessons are useful, they won’t get you into shape overnight. Having a flexible stance and learning the basic movements is mostly dependent on your physique.
If you have strong muscles, it will be easier to go through the day. People who are in bad shape will usually quit much sooner. Furthermore, lack of endurance can pose a problem in the following days as you will be so fatigued and might not even want to leave the bed.
Experience with Related Sports
As mentioned previously, board sports are very important if you wish to quickly learn to snowboard. Experienced skiers will get a hang of this sport in no time. While these two sports are very different mechanically, being on familiar slopes will make it very easy for skiers.
Perhaps the biggest difference between this and other similar sports is that snowboarders are attached to their boards viasnowboard boots. So, if you are to fall, you will fall together—with the board—which feels very different.
Sports that improve balance and flexibility, such as yoga, capoeira, and gymnastics, should also give you a major head start. Aerobic exercises for the entire body can also be great.
Being Consistent
Beginner snowboarders need to be very persistent. Quitting on the first day is something you might regret several years in the future. Always remember that muscle memory is very important for developing your skills. So, the more you practice, the easier it becomes.
The first few days at a snowboarding resort are usually the hardest ones. Not only should you be consistent, but you should hit the slopes for several hours each day. After each day, you will likely be very sore. But, as experienced snowboarders will tell you, this is all part of the game.
Wearing the Right Gear
After just one day of snowboarding, your feet and fingers can feel completely numb. This is why having the proper gear is so important.
Besides the snowboarding equipment, you will have to put on the proper clothes in your hotel room. Make sure that you’re comfortable enough and not feeling cold. At the same time, you don’t want to wear too much stuff as you will start sweating profusely.
Having the right snowboard is crucial. Goggles, wrist, and knee protection, as well as protection for your backside, will ensure that you remain safe during your time on the slope.
Other Physical Characteristics
Although you might think that age is a major factor preventing you from learning how to snowboard, it isn’t so. While this sport is reliant on strength, it also depends on flexibility and skill. Don’t be surprised if you see a lot of older snowboarders taking the young ones to school.
Weight and size also shouldn’t be overlooked. Leaner individuals tend to find it easier to balance and move around.
Mental Approach
Snowboarding, as a whole, can be scary. If you’re the type of person that is easily dissuaded by a few bruises, perhaps this activity is not the right thing for you.
Simply put, you need to be prepared to get hurt. Falling is an integral part of the process, and you should expect both soreness and bruising. Furthermore, you need to be prepared to endure this punishment for a few days. Toughing it out for one day is not enough as you will have to hit the slope tomorrow once again. Otherwise, you will probably never learn how to do it.
On top of that, a beginner needs to be willing to take risks. Once you get used to the beginner slope, we suggest that you go with something a bit more challenging. This will be very difficult and challenging, but the reward will be worth the risk.
When Will You Learn to Snowboard?
Almost everyone can learn the basics in one winter vacation. The persistence and overall mental approach are key. At the same time, you need to be realistic about your physical shape.
If you truly wish to learn this skill, we suggest that you plan ahead. Hit the gym before your vacation and try to work on your legs, gluteus, and abdomen. This will give you an enormous head start.
How Do You Ride a Snowboard and Find a Proper Balance?
Learning how to ride a snowboard includes proper body movements, finding the right board setup, and getting acquainted with the slope. You also need the right gear to help mitigate potential injuries.
On your first time snowboarding, you have to go through board control basics with your instructor. Having an incorrect technique can lead to lots of bumps and bruises.
There are a lot of things that beginner snowboarders need to know before going down the bunny hill. This section will help you out with the basics—such as identifying the right clothes, taking an upright position, turning corners, and riding the lift.
What Kind of Clothes Should You Wear?
Contrary to what you might think, having too many cotton layers is a bad idea. While you do need extra layers of clothing, going overboard will lead to sweating and loss of mobility. You might consider spending extra money on organic materials as they are more breathable and provide water-resistant protection.
Almost all ski resorts in North America have dedicated stores where you can rent Alpine boards and other equipment. To some people, things such as snowboard goggles might seem excessive. But, every competent snowboarder can tell you that omitting this piece is an awful idea.
Crash helmet, beginner board, snowboard boots, snow pants, stomp pad, are all there for your protection and comfort. Beside clothing, another good way to prevent injuries is by learning how to fall.
Strapping in and Finding the Correct Stance
First off, you need to make sure that your boots fit nicely. Avoid having too many things in the boot. Having two pairs of socks is quite enough as this will keep you warm, while preventing sweating. Modern boots provide enough insulation to keep your feet warm throughout the day.
Foot heels should be all the way back in the boot. In a sense, it is very similar to how you would try newly bought shoes. If you’re not certain that you’ve put them on properly, ask a professional snowboard instructor for assistance.
Before even trying a snowboard, you need to see what kind of a stance suits you the best.
The stance refers to the direction you’re facing when going down a slope. There are two stances to choose from, regular and goofy. When you take the regular stance, your left foot will be facing forward, while with goofy, your right foot will go first. Keep in mind that this is not a question of right or wrong—it is about what feels the best for you.
You also need to differentiate different parts of the board. The nose is what snowboarders call the front part of the snowboard. The back side is called the tail. Heelside edge is the edge close to the heel, while toeside edge refers to the side closer to toes.
The snowboard bindings are usually made of metal or plastic. When you want to strap into the snowboard, you will need to find a flat, steady surface. Doing so on an uneven surface can be extremely hard for beginners. Once you place one foot in, make sure to put the ladder into the ratchet. The next thing you need to do is to tighten it by cranking the ratchet.
Standing up, Skating, and Gliding
One of the biggest issues for newbies is getting up from the ground. In order to do so, you will need good balance and strong muscles (muscle strength also affects your balance).
Getting up after having your feet strapped in can be quite a task. The best way to do it is to bend your knees while sitting and scooting the snowboard toward your backside. Afterward, you need to lean forward and get up by utilizing quad and core strength.
It is very important to do this on flat ground. Otherwise, there is a chance that you will start sliding down as you’re getting up.
Given that you’re now on a flat surface, you will have to learn to move around without relying on physics. Most snowboarders move on a flat surface by having their front foot strapped and utilizing the back foot to push themselves forward. This is referred to as skating.
Skating is very important as it will allow you to get on a chairlift, which will get you to the top of the slope. Keep in mind that snowboards are a bit different from skateboards in the sense that your back foot will be behind the heelside edge.
Another difficult thing can be going up the hill. As a beginner, you probably won’t have many opportunities to try this. But, if you do, make sure to dig into the snow with your toeside edge. Then, start jumping forward bringing both of your feet in the air
Stopping, Turning, and Riding a Chairlift
Like with any other similar sport, you need to learn how to stop and how to turn before going downhill. Controlling your speed will be crucial for avoiding collisions.
Make sure that your board is placed across the hill. Also, you will need to be on the heelside. Once you do so, try to find balance that will allow you to go downhill without having to rely on lateral movement. All of this time, you need to be in a mid-squat. On top of that, you will have to lift the toeside edge a bit off the snow.
When you learn how to control the speed with both edges, it is time to learn how to turn. A technique used for this is called garlands. It is like a half-turn that relies on the same skill needed for stopping. When you get comfortable with garlands, get ready for full C turns. In order to perform them, you will need to shift your body weight from heels to toes and vice versa.
Riding a chairlift is every bit as important as some other processes on the list. The process can be quite troublesome, especially if you have fear of heights. But, you should get used to it relatively quickly.
First, you need to skate to the waiting area. Once the lift arrives, make sure to skate up to the loading area. The next thing you need to do is to position your back foot so that it is easier to sit on the lift. It is very important to slide all the way to the end of the chair. This will provide some extra safety. Once you’re in, put the bar in place.
Moving while on a snowboard
There are several basic snowboard movements that you’ll need to learn:
Tilt
With this move, you are able to control the angle of your snowboard edge. As you tilt the board, your edge will also be more engaged during the turn. You can also extend one ankle and flex the other one in order to make a twist. This move makes your turns smoother.
Pivot
During the pivot, you will rotate the snowboard. This should allow you to skid through the turn. Among others, it is also important to shift body weight between feet. By doing so, you can control how much pressure is exerted on the board itself.
Each one of these moves has its purpose. If you’re a long-time skier, or if you’re acquainted with some other board sports, some of these will be almost intuitive. While they might not be as crucial for beginners, they become increasingly important if you wish to progress.
For example, pivot is essential for making sharp turns, and, as such, it is often used for some dangerous tricks. If you know how to do it properly, the 180s and 360s will become much easier. By utilizing pressure on the board, you will be able to do butters, jumps, and tail-presses.
Getting Off a Chairlift
Some people might struggle a lot getting off a chairlift.
In order to do it the right way, you need to properly position your backside while on the chair. All the while, your snowboard should be kept straight. Try to stand up by transferring most of your weight on the front foot. As you do so, your rear foot should go on the storm pad. Look ahead, stand up, and push yourself off the chair.
Even if you fall off the chairlift, don’t be worried. You won’t get stomped or anything like that. Ski operators are used to these situations, and they will stop the chair as soon as someone falls down. That way, you will have enough time to get up and get out of the way.
Will I Be Able to Master the Basics?
By reading this section, you should be well aware of the basics and how to ride the lift. However, there is no guarantee that you will actually be able to master these moves in just a few days.
We recommend that you start by strengthening your muscles before hitting the slopes. This will increase the odds of learning how to snowboard. Who knows—perhaps one day you’re able to make snowboarding history.
What Types of Easy Snowboard Tricks Can You Learn?
Now, we are not saying that everyone will be able to learn these easy snowboard tricks. In fact, saying that you need just a few weeks might be a bit generous. In the end, you need to learn proper body position, learn how to switch stance, and get enough board control.
As mentioned in the first section, your ability to master this winter sport is dependent on physical conditioning. Even the basic tricks have heavy physical requirements for intermediate snowboarders.
In this section, we will go through some easy snowboard tricks and ways to learn them quickly.
Before Starting
If you wish to master snowboardfreestyle tricks, you will need to set up or land in your switch position.
The first thing you need to think about is safety. It is much better to try these beginner level moves after heavy snow. That way, you will have a cushion that will allow you to fall safely. If there wasn’t enough snow in the last few days, be prepared for some bumps and bruises on the knees and backside.
Even when doing the basic moves, there is a risk of injury. This is why you need to be properly protected by getting wrist gear,snowboard boots, snowboard, ski helmet, etc. Among others, you will have to go beyond your comfort level and take some chances.
At the same time, you shouldn’t be too zealous. While you might nail some beginner tricks, don’t try advanced moves. Otherwise, you’ll likely hurt yourself. Even if you’re a confident snowboarder, you need to know your limits and have realistic expectations during the first runs.
Another important thing for intermediate snowboarders is to find anideal board. Finding the correct board size is half the battle.
Types of Easy Snowboard Tricks
While some of these snowboard trick names might sound funny, they feel really awesome. Here is how we categorize all these moves:
- Snowboard jumps are all the tricks that require you to jump off the ground together with the board. This includes ollie and nollie. They will allow you to move your board with ease.
- Snowboard presses are moves during which you will press one part of the board into the snow while elevating the other side.
- Snowboard grabs are great visually. The list includes things such as nose grab, tail grab, mute grab, etc. For every grab trick, you will have to hold a part of the board.
- Snowboard rotations are moves during which you will rotate the snowboard (whether it’s an aerial rotation or on the ground). Some of the tricks are frontside rotation and backflip rotations.
- Snowboard rail tricks include everything done on the rail. Even the common snowboard rail tricks can be troublesome, so we suggest that you gain some experience before trying them. However, the rail is great as it will allow you to try any slide trick.
Top Six Tricks for Beginners
Here is alistof almost every snowboarding trick that you can try as a beginner.
Ollie
Ollie is the essential trick used for numerous other techniques. It is an aerial trick that you can try on a gentle slope. We can use it for larger jumps and even to slightly change the direction of travel.
The flatland trick is done by bending the knees and crouching down. When you do so, lean back to load the board allowing you to make a straight jump. Depending on your strength, you can gain extra height.
Nollie
This timeless trick is the same as ollie, but you do it off the nose. In other words, it requires reverse motion. It is one of those flatland snowboard tricks that you cannot go without.
Mastering the nollie is crucial for advanced snowboard tricks. Load the board with the nose, lean forward, and make a straight jump. It is a common trick that allows you to do so much.
Butters
Before you do butters, you will have to take a proper butter position. Lean back while keeping your legs straight. The body should be lined with the rear knee. When you get a hold of this move, you will quickly learn how to do even complicated things such as butter nose rolls.
By using butters, you will be able to do awesome trick combinations in just a few days.
Indie grabs
Every grab is a fun trick. They require you to jump off the air, and grab your board. To do it, make sure to bend your knees and go downward with your hand in order to grab the board. You will need to release the snowboard when you’re at the peak of height.
Frontside 180s
This snowboarding trick can be done in numerous ways. But, to do it properly, you need to get used to the riding switch as you will land on the rotation switch. It is a type of spin trick that requires good upper body control.
You need to be on flat ground to try frontside spin. That way, you’ll get used to spinning to switch. When you get into your regular stance, press heelside edge against the snow as if you wish to turn. As soon as you feel the board slipping, swing your back arm to the opposite side while looking over the opposite shoulder.
50/50 grinds
Another essential trick on this list, 50/50 grinds are done on wider boxes. Your box needs to be clear beforehand. Then, you need to go right to it. The same basics apply as when hitting a jump. You shouldn’t be carving, and try to retain your original position.
While on the box, make sure that you still have the centered, original position, and ride off it straight. Bend the knees so that you absorb the landing. Keeping a strong position before landing is crucial in this case as it will prevent injuries.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Trying These Easy Snowboard Tricks
Before you hit advanced slopes, keep in mind that consistent practice is needed for complex tricks. So, if you wish to have a great assortment of tricks like advanced riders, you will need to be patient with the basic techniques.
While advanced skateboarding can give you a good head start, you will need good amounts of practice to get to the next level. Having a centered stance, strong press position, and good position before landing will go a long way in allowing you to master these moves.
What Kind of First-time Snowboarding Gear Do You Need?
Beginner snowboarders have to get the right protective gear to reduce the risk of injury. Although you will do most of the initial lessons on flat surfaces, strains, and sprains can occur at any moment.
Before going down the first slope, you will need to get the right safety gear such as ski boots, affordable snowboarding goggles, and wrist guards from the local ski shop.
Unless there are some special deals in your hometown, we suggest that you don’t buy items before a snowboarding trip. This is especially true for newbies.
Regardless of your skill level, you will need basic snowboard equipment. In this section, we will go through all this outdoor gear, and how it can serve you on the slopes.
Snowboard and Bindings
There is no snowboarding activity without a snowboard! Besides the board, you will also rely on strap bindings to keep your feet in place.
Like all other boardsports, you will need beginner gear according to your body weight and snowboarding stance. You can choose between different pieces of gear such as alpine, freestyle, and freeride products. Most new snowboarders go with a freestyle board as it is easy to control.
You will get a board with bindings attached. They come in different sizes so they can be used for varioussnowboarding boots.
Given that snowboards tend to be expensive, most people will get them from rental shops. When you visit the store, an employee can also help out by finding the right equipment according to your ability level.
Snowboard Socks
While this might sound a bit far-fetched, socks are one of the most important parts of your outfit. They provide you with the base layer that will keep your feet warm at any time.
Some people might put on two pairs of socks, but every advanced person will tell you that’s excessive. Like with anyphysical activity, having an extra layer of clothing will increase sweating. As a result, sweat will make you lose warmth, leading to cold feet.
Make sure that your socks are a bit longer so that the skin doesn’t rub against snowboarding boots thus causing irritation.
Base and Mid-layer Made from Proper Materials
You need to think about the outer layer before visiting a terrain park. Unlike some other parts of the equipment, you need to adapt your clothing based on temperature. Using additional clothes is important for staying warm. But, as we pointed out with socks, you don’t want to get sweaty.
Merino wool layers are ideal for snowboarding. They can be good for wicking moisture, making them optimal for maintaining just the right body temperature.
You should add a layer to your base if it gets too cold. This includes clothes such as sweaters, sweatshirts, fleeces, and so on.
Snowboarding Jacket and Snow Pants
A good waterproof jacket is crucial for both humidity and wind. It is meant to keep you dry throughout the lessons. Perhaps the biggest issue with the mountains is that temperatures tend to change during the day. Having the right winter jacket will help you adjust to the weather while feeling comfortable.
The same can be said for your waterproof pants. A pair of snow pants should be completely impregnable. If you’re renting one from a store, make sure they’re completely intact. Due to numerous falls, rentals might have small holes that can easily ruin your day if snow seeps through them.
Snowboard Helmet
Snowboarding helmets are the most crucial part of the equipment for preventing injuries. Experienced skiers and snowboarders can tell you numerous stories about how a helmet saved their life. Needless to say, this piece of equipment is much more important on advanced trails.
Keep in mind that beginner injuries are not that common given that you’ll be on a flat surface most of the time. Still, you shouldn’t neglect any piece of equipment. Some people struggle with having both a helmet and goggles on, but this is something you need to get used to if you wish to go from beginner snowboarding to advanced levels.
Snowboard Boots
Having the right boots will allow you to seamlessly connect to the board. It is the essential gear that you probably shouldn’t rent at the resort. Snow boots should be of the right size, and you need to feel comfortable when wearing them.
This piece of equipment is classified based on the shoe size, like your regular shoes. But, these sizes can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. It is much better to purchase them before making a snowboarding trip, as you don’t want to think about last-minute changes or renting.
Snowboarding gloves
Basically, you can get any type of gloves for snow sports. Like all other pieces of gear, they need to be completely impregnable. Cold wind can render your fingers completely useless. And while they’re not as important for snowboarding as for skiing, we’re pretty certain you wish to avoid frostbites.
You will touch the snow from time to time, and you might even use your hands for maneuvering. There is a chance that your gloves will get small tears when you do so. Because of that, make sure to buy or rent gloves that are very durable.
Snowboard Goggles
As you can presume,goggles are meant to protect your eyes from snow. However, strong wind can also be a major issue during a run. There is also a potential risk of debris. If snow or wind interrupts you at an inopportune time, there is a higher chance you will suffer a collision.
Last Consideration When Getting Your First Snowboarding Gear
Deciding whether to rent or to buy in advance is the most important thing with snowboarding equipment. As mentioned, certain pieces are better to buy, while you can rent the rest.
No matter what, you need to ensure that the gear is intact before hitting the slope. You don’t need any last-minute surprises. Things such as this can completely ruin your winter vacation, especially if you’re staying for just a few days.
Conclusion
Learning how to snowboard for the very first time is going to take quite a bit of time and effort. But it is worth all the effort because once you learn how to control your board and body and start mastering jumps or tricks then you will have a blast. Snowboarding isn’t just a fun activity, it is a great sport to help you stay fit during the cold winter months.
We hope that this guide was useful for getting started in snowboarding. And if you are shopping for beginner snowboarding gear then we welcome you to have a look at some of the product reviews we have on our site. With our guides onSnow Authorities, you can find all the latest and best skiing and snowboarding equipment currently available on the market.
