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Welcome future shredder! Getting into snowboarding was one of the best decisions of my life. If you are reading this, then you might be thinking about getting into snowboarding, too. Snowboarding is not your typical hobby. While I certainly believe that snowboarding is for everyone, there is a barrier to entry that deters many from falling in love with it. What is that barrier? A snowboard!

The first step in calling yourself a snowboarder is buying an actual snowboard. I’ll admit, I rented boards for a long time, but it wasn’t until I bought one that my progression as a rider and my identity as a boarder truly began to manifest. Buying your first snowboard can be scary, especially if you don’t know much about snowboards to begin with. That’s okay! I’m going to cover everything you need to know in this article.

TL;DR: In this article, I will cover what to look for when buying your first snowboard and what beginners should look for in terms of design and price. Additionally, I will cover snowboard bindings, boots, and accessories.

Main Point: First-time snowboard buyers should look for a board that is the correct length, has a medium/soft flex rating, and has a true-twin rocker shape.

How To Choose the Right Snowboard

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First-time snowboard buyers should consider a few physical factors such as board shape, length, and flex. Beginners should look for a board that is going to help them become better snowboarders. Let’s go over some of these factors, and then I’ll list some awesome snowboards that are perfect for beginners.

Snowboard Shape

A snowboard’s shape heavily affects the way a snowboard feels underfoot. First-time snowboard buyers should consider a true twin snowboard with a centered stance (unless you already know what shape you want).

A true twin snowboard is perfectly symmetrical from nose to tail. Some snowboards are “directional,” which typically means they have longer noses than tails. There are many different types of snowboard shapes, but a true twin is the way to go for beginners. A true twin shape will help beginners get the feel of riding and will help new riders practice riding switch, too.

Then there is snowboard profile, often referred to as snowboard “bend.” This refers to the snowboard’s shape when looked at from the side (if it were lying flat on the ground). These shapes include flat, rocker, camber, and hybrid camber. Without getting too technical, first-time snowboard buyers should consider a board with a flat or rocker profile because they are the easiest to master. Flat and rocker snowboard profiles are best suited to beginners and terrain park riders.

Snowboard Length

Snowboard length is essential when it comes to maneuverability and stability. You don’t want a board that is too small and you definitely don’t want a board that is too big. Smaller boards are easier to control but they lack speed, and longer boards are faster but harder to control. Beginners should buy a snowboard in their recommended length.

Snowboard length is directly correlated to one’s weight and height. I’m 5,9 and I weigh 170 lbs. I like my snowboards a little shorter than most so I use one that is 154cm. You can find a full snowboard sizing chart here.

A correctly sized snowboard will often stand as tall as between your nose and chin. While this isn’t entirely true for every snowboard, it’s a rule of thumb for most snowboards (especially true twins).

Snowboard Flex

Every snowboard has its flex rating. Some snowboards are incredibly stiff, while others are unbelievably flexible (soft). Beginner riders should choose a board that is on the softer side. Soft flex snowboards are easy to control, maneuver, and are way more forgiving.

5 Great Beginner Snowboards

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• 2024 Arbor Foundation Rocker: The Arbor Foundation snowboard is the perfect snowboard for beginner riders. This board is very forgiving and will feel great all over the mountain. While it won’t do well in deep snow, it’ll feel awesome on the groomers.
• 2024 Nidecker Play Snowboard: This is another great snowboard to learn on. It’s a lightweight, forgiving snowboard that is ideal for smaller riders. This board features a rocker/flat/rocker profile that will be so easy to learn on. It also comes at a lower price than most.
• 2024 Salomon Sleepwalker Snowboard: This beginner snowboard is amazing for new riders who want to learn tricks. It’s suitable for rails, freestyle riding, and small jumps. Its hybrid camber might take some getting used to, though.
• 2024 Nitro Prime Raw Snowboard: The Nitro Prime Raw is an ideal board for any first-time owner. This board is also a rocker/flat/rocker and comes at a good price and it's very durable
• 2024 Rome Mechanic Snowboard: The Rome Mechanic has a medium flex rating and a rocker/flat/rocker snowboard profile. This is an ideal all-mountain snowboard that feels at home in the park and on the groomers.

Snowboard Bindings and Boots

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When you’ve identified the snowboard you want to buy, the next step is finding a pair of bindings and boots to pair with your board. The criteria for bindings and boots are almost identical to that of snowboards. Beginners should buy comfortable, flexible, and durable bindings to go onto their snowboard. The same goes for snowboard boots.

Bindings

• Salomon Pact Snowboard Bindings: These affordable bindings are perfect for beginners and intermediates. They are comfortable, responsive, and will last long enough for you to get better as a snowboarder.
• Arbor Spruce Snowboard Bindings: The Arbor Spruce bindings are an ideal choice for beginners looking for a reputable binding. Solid material and a classic design, the Spruce bindings are awesome.
• Union Flite Pro Snowboard Bindings: These budget-friendly bindings offer a softer flex than most. They are super comfortable and lightweight.

Boots

• ThirtyTwo Shifty BOA Snowboard Boots: These boots are perfect for beginners. They are lightweight, comfortable, and convenient with the BOA system. They have a soft flex, which makes them forgiving anywhere on the slopes.
• Vans Hi-Standard OG Snowboard Boots: These classic Vans snowboard boots come with traditional laces and tons of comfort. These boots will pair well with virtually any binding. I’d recommend these to beginners and intermediates looking to improve their riding skills this season.
• K2 Rosko Snowboard Boots: The K2 Rosko boots are comfortable, stable, and simple. They are not the most impressive snowboard boots out there, but they will get the job done for beginners.

Snowboard Accessories

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Here at Outdoor Master, we make some awesome helmets and goggles, but we also make some gear to go along with your snowboard, too.

When you buy a snowboard, bindings, and boots, protect them by using a snowboard bag. It’s the best way to keep your gear safe, and it makes traveling a lot easier when everything is safely stored in one place. Personally, I use the OM Expandable Padded Snowboard Bag, which fits my board, helmet, jacket, pants, goggles, boots, and more. It’s amazing.

Check out our snowboard accessories here!

#DoWhatYouBelieve

Hopefully, this guide has helped you find a snowboard setup that suits your needs. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me personally! You can DM me on Instagram at sam_sam_1024. And remember to follow Outdoor Master on Instagram, too!