Clothes to Wear While Snowboarding

Snowboarding is an exhilarating and riveting sport. Whether you're a beginner or you're used to the steepest of slopes, the right clothing is an essential for safe and fun snowboarding. Since snowboarding is a winter sport, the snowboarder should prepare for layered clothing and a specific set of protective gear to keep them safe, protected and warm. There are a variety of clothing options for snowboarders nowadays.

  1. Base Layer

    • The lowest layer of clothing, aside from underwear, that should be worn by a snowboarder is the base layer. This layer, although not seen, is very important in keeping the snowboarder dry and warm. The base layer of clothing should consist of a tight-but-comfortable-fitting long sleeve shirt and long johns. These should be made of any material aside from cotton to ensure maximum dryness.

    Middle Layer

    • The middle layer can actually be split into more than one layer, but must at least consist of one layer of non-cotton fleece or wool. Depending on the weather, the snowboarder can wear a thicker layer, multiple layers, or a thin layer. This layer serves as insulation for the snowboarder by trapping warm air against the body just as fiberglass keeps a house or building insulated.

    Outermost Layer

    • The outermost layer is simply a thick winter jacket and pants. These should protect the snowboarder from the snow, sleet and rain, as well as rocks and wind. When choosing the jacket and pants for this layer, make sure you're using a durable, water-resistant material that still allows you to breathe and move freely.

    Head & Foot Wear

    • Snowboarders can simply choose thick socks or specialty brands of socks made specifically for snowboarding. These socks are designed for comfort and warmth, providing a unique design that assists in balance. Durable snowboarding boots should be worn over the socks and should be strapped on tightly and comfortably. While they are not always necessary, helmets are recommended for a safer snowboarding experience. A beanie or winter hat can be worn in place of a helmet or underneath the helmet for increased warmth.

    Protective Gear

    • Protective snowboarding goggles are essential for maximum protection of the eyes against flying debris, tree branches and weather variations such as wind, snow and rain. As broken wrists are a common injury in snowboarding, protective wrist guards can be worn to stabilize and strengthen the wrists in case of a fall. Beginners have been known to wear knee and elbow pads, and even padded underwear for extra protection in case of falls or slips on the slopes.