Choose the right Snowboard
Choosing the Right Snowboard
We've put together a short guide for anyone looking to buy a new snowboard.
Different snowboards are designed for different types of riding. Here we'll explain some of the differences between snowboard models, lengths and widths.
There are boards at both ends of the spectrum, as well as plenty of models that overlap between different types of riding. There isn't really a right or wrong choice, but having the right type of board for the conditions usually makes a big difference.
So it's worth looking in the right category when searching for your next favourite board.
We'll start by looking at some of the different shapes and characteristics of snowboards.
Powder Snowboards
For powder riding, there are larger boards designed for open terrain and steep runs, as well as shorter models that are better suited to tight trees and more technical terrain.
You'll often see swallow tails or bindings positioned further back on the board. This helps the tail sink naturally into the snow and keeps the nose up, so you don't have to lean back as much when riding powder.
Many powder boards are also great on groomers and for carving, so you don't need deep snow to have fun on them.
Carving Snowboards
For carving, you generally want a snowboard that feels stable on edge. Some boards have a longer sidecut radius for longer turns and higher speeds, while others have a shorter sidecut radius for quicker turns and faster edge-to-edge riding.
Most snowboards designed with carving in mind use some form of camber profile. You can read more about snowboard profiles here.
There are plenty of good snowboards for carving. Take a look at some of our favourites below.
All-Mountain Snowboards
All-mountain snowboards are versatile and designed to handle most types of riding across the mountain. They're made for riders who want to explore different terrain, from groomers and trees to powder when fresh snow arrives.
All-mountain boards come in a wide range of profiles and flexes, so you can choose anything from a more forgiving board to something more stable and responsive. If you like exploring the whole mountain and want one snowboard that can handle a bit of everything, an all-mountain board is a good place to start.
See our all-mountain snowboards
Park Snowboards
A park or freestyle snowboard is often a twin, or at least very similar in shape between the nose and tail, so that it rides well in both directions.
There are also directional freestyle boards, where the nose and tail have different shapes or characteristics.
Freestyle boards can be soft or stiff, long or short. There isn't one setup that's right for everyone.
Stiffer and longer freestyle boards can provide more stability for bigger jumps and higher speeds through the park.
Softer boards are often better suited to playful riding, and a softer flex can be useful when riding rails and boxes.
Splitboards
We also have splitboards. Most riders choose an all-mountain or powder-oriented model, as these are usually the types of terrain and conditions you're looking for when heading out on a splitboard.
We have a separate guide covering the equipment you need for splitboarding. You can read more about splitboards here.
Want to Know More?
Contact us if you need some help choosing a snowboard, or continue with our guides below.