How to Buy Skiboards

Skiboards mix the balance of a snowboard with the speed of traditional skis into one package. Young winter athletes and experienced skiers alike have flocked to skiboarding as a new challenge. You can get out on the slopes and enjoy skiboards when you learn how to buy your first pair. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Sketch of skiboard design
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Instructions

  1. Purchase the Right Skiboard

    • 1

      Compare the length of available skiboards to determine the right size for your particular body type. Most skiboarders utilize a board that is between 36 and 40 inches long to ensure good balance as they learn the sport. Taller athletes should consider boards that range up to 48 inches to stay upright during lessons and practice.

    • 2

      Ease your move from skiing to skiboarding with narrower skiboards. The rule of thumb for skiboards is that narrower boards are easier to handle because they take corners and adjustments without wasted movement. You should buy wider skiboards as you become more comfortable with tricks and advanced moves.

    • 3

      Assess the symmetry of skiboards before you buy your first pair. Symmetrical skiboards have tips and tails with the same height while asymmetrical boards have a tail height that is lower than the height of the tip. Symmetrical boards are ideal for skiers who want to perform tricks and advanced moves.

    • 4

      Ask skiboard sales people to show you their selection of boards with wooden cores. Skiboards with wooden centers offer durability and longevity that is a necessity for serious outdoors enthusiasts. These boards will cost significantly more than their foam centered counterparts but they can handle greater abuse on the slopes.

    • 5

      Select the appropriate bindings for your set of skiboards. Most skiboarders select non-release bindings because they prevent accidental separation from their boards while they are speeding down the hill. A growing number of skiboarders are choosing AT bindings, which use a sophisticated locking mechanism to give boarders the best of both worlds.

    • 6

      Design the appearance of your skiboards at a specialty ski shop. Shop owners are utilizing the same customization tools they use on snowboards for the growing clientele for skiboards. Popular skiboard designs include flames, cartoon characters and favorite natural scenes.