How to Buy Kid's Snowboarding Gear

Kids who love to snowboard need gear that fits them and protects them, so they can have a safe ride. Pay particular attention to your kids' snowboards, boots and helmets when shopping for their gear.

  1. Snowboards

    • Kid's snowboards are designed to fit their proportionately smaller bodies. Their snowboard should come between their chin and nose when they stand it on end. Snowboards also vary in width and flexibility. If your child has bigger feet, he will need a wider snowboard; if he doesn't weigh much, he will need a board with more flex. Rent or borrow a snowboard before you buy it to make sure it works for your child.

    Snowboard Boots

    • Snowboard boots must fit right to be effective, since they're what transfers the energy from your legs to your board. Your kid should wear snowboarding socks when trying on snowboard boots. Lace up the boots and see if they're comfortable. Then have your kid snap the boots into a snowboard and lean forward. The snowboard boot must lift the entire snowboard as you lean; otherwise, you don't have the right boots.

    Helmets

    • Children should always wear helmets when snowboarding to protect their heads in case of a crash. They're also warmer than hats, so your child is unlikely to need a helmet as well as a hat.