The length of a snowboard has a big impact on how it feels and behaves.
A longer board provides better stability at high speeds and more float in powder, but if it's too long it can become clunky and difficult to turn. Shorter snowboards are easier to maneuver and feel playful, but can become unstable at higher speeds and, in the worst case, feel fluttery.
There are also models that are designed to be ridden either shorter or longer, depending on their shape and the type of riding you want.
A classic rule of thumb for all-mountain and freestyle boards is to choose a snowboard that reaches just below the chin for a slightly shorter feel, and up to the eyes for a longer and more stable experience.
For each model and size on the site, we have specified a recommended length, but you can of course deviate from this. However, if you feel unsure, our recommendation can be a good starting point.
If you want more stability, choose a slightly longer board, and if you are looking for a more playful feel, a shorter one may be better.
Children can often have a slightly longer board for extra stability and to avoid the board being too narrow. Plus, they grow quickly, and once they get used to their board, it doesn't matter much if it later becomes a little shorter in relation to their height.
Some people believe that weight is more important than height, and to some extent this is true, but it can also be misleading. Weight can be due to both muscle and extra pounds, so although some snowboards specify a minimum/maximum weight, we have chosen to remove this to reduce confusion. If you are heavier than average for your height, a stiffer board may be better, while a slightly softer board may be suitable if you are lighter.