List of Essential Snowboard Gear

Snowboarding is a popular winter sport that is consistently gaining new participants from everywhere around the world every season. Many beginners are unaware of the equipment that should be used for this extreme sport, or how they should determine what items they need to get started on the slopes. Fortunately, standard quality snowboarding gear will last for several years and is available for purchase at most sporting goods retailers.

  1. Board

    • The average rider prefers a board that stands around her forehead in height. Of course, different riders will prefer different boards for different riding styles and conditions. Most beginning snowboarders rent their boards until they find the right fit for their personal style.

    Bindings

    • If you are purchasing your own board you will need to buy bindings as well. Bindings attach the rider to the board safely and come in two different styles. There are benefits to having either the strap-in or step-in styles and it's best to test out the two types prior to purchasing to see which kind you like best.

    Boots

    • You can usually find boots available for rental, but snowboarders that ride frequently throughout the season like having their own pair of boots for comfort. It is easier to ride in boots that fit properly and snugly.

    Stomp Pad

    • The stomp pad is a grippy piece of rubber or foam adhered to the board between the bindings and is another important piece of safety equipment, especially for beginners. It allows the rider to control the board when getting off of lifts. One foot stays in the bindings and the other sits in the middle of the board. Without the stomp pad for traction the loose foot can easily slip right off of the board and the rider then cannot use it to steer or control which direction the board takes them when coming off of steep lift drops.

    Helmets

    • Helmets are important for beginners and professionals alike, especially when developing new riding skills or looking to perform tricks on the slopes. Head injuries are generally considered to be the worst and most serious injuries sustained by snowboarders.

    Leash

    • The leash is used to secure one of the boots to the binding to ensure that even in the instance of binding failure, you will still have a connection to the board. This prevents boards from being lost and therefore is an absolute necessity. Almost all boards come with a leash, but it is still important that you double check all of your equipment before using it.

    Goggles

    • Heavy winds and falling snow is a surprisingly difficult combination to see through. Goggles are essential for protecting your eyes if you don't want to fall off of the mountain or smash into a tree as a result of being blinded by the snow or sun, goggles are recommended.

    Clothing

    • Staying warm is a priority for snowboarders as hypothermia can result from being at high altitudes and cold temperatures without the proper clothing. Wind chill is also something to consider when riding. A waterproof jacket with fleece lining is ideal for warmth and comfort and waterproof pants are extremely important to wear because you end up sitting in the snow quite a bit when you stop riding. Gloves are needed to protect your hands from the rougher patches of snow that you may encounter.