How to Size Snow Boards

Approximate snowboard sizes are initially determined by the weight of the rider. It's also important to realize that comfort is one of the most important parameters in choosing your snowboard size, since it is a key factor in your ability to maintain balance and control. Familiarize yourself with the aspects of a snowboard before choosing the size that's right for you.

Things You'll Need

  • Scale
  • Your shoe size
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Instructions

  1. Determining Your Basic Snowboard Size

    • 1

      Choose the right vendor from which to purchase your snowboard. First-time riders are often encouraged to go to a snowboard shop to get the right feel for their first board, as opposed to purchasing boards unseen from an online vendor.

    • 2

      Choose a style of snowboard. There are three common snowboard styles: "freestyle," "freeride" and "freecarve." Freestyle boards are shorter to allow better maneuverability. Freeride boards are designed for deep snow. Freecarve boards--recommended for more advanced riders--are lighter to maximize speed.

    • 3

      Choose the correct snowboard width. Riders with a shoe size larger than 12 should consider "wide" widths. You'll want to choose a board that's wide enough so that your toes don't hang off the edge of the board, as this could inhibit your control.

    • 4

      Choose a basic board length based on your weight. Snowboard USA recommends the chart below in determining your freestyle snowboard size.

      A rider who weighs 100 lbs. should have a board 138cm in length. The length of the board should increase 3 inches for every 10 lbs. This formula is applicable for riders 220 lbs. and less.

      Weight / Board Length
      100 lbs / 138cm
      110 lbs / 141cm
      120 lbs / 144cm
      130 lbs / 147cm
      140 lbs / 150cm
      150 lbs / 153cm
      160 lbs / 156cm
      170 lbs / 159cm
      180 lbs - 220 lbs / 162cm

      Specialty board lengths for heavier riders can go up to 171cm.