How to Buy a Snowboard, Boots and Bindings

Snowboarding used to be simple--youngsters mysteriously possessed the necessary skills and old people stayed away. But now that everyone's doing it, things have become more complicated. Unless you plan to specialize in one type of riding (slalom racing, for example), get a versatile freeride setup.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Rent equipment or borrow a friend's before you buy. You need to know what's right for you, not what's right for someone else.
2. Consider the type of snow you encounter most often. For hard snow and ice, you want a stiffer board. For powder, a softer board rides better.
3. Choose board length. For example, a 5-foot 8-inch (1.7-m) novice will ride something in the range of 150 to 160 cm. More length provides stability and flotation in powder, while shorter boards are more maneuverable.
4. Look for a board that matches your needs rather than a particular brand. For research purposes, popular brands' sites include Burton.com, K2Snowboarding.com, MLY.com, M-Three.com, Rossignol.com, SCSnowboards.com and RideSnowboards.com.
5. Expect to pay $260 to $400 for a board. There is a range of materials for different riding preferences and abilities.
6. Take your snowboarding style into account when choosing a board. Young or adventurous riders develop an array of techniques for destroying their board. This is normal and expected. Stick to boards in the lower price ranges if you plan to trash yours. More-conservative riders can buy higher-priced models that will last them many years.
7. Select a binding system. Strap bindings hold your feet in place with overlapping straps. These can be slow to put on and remove, but many people prefer the support they provide. Step-in bindings are convenient, but have limited foot support. Step-ins can also clog up with snow, making them a chore to use in deep powder. Bindings range from $90 to $120.
8. Make sure the boots fit the bindings and that you can attach the bindings to the board. Not all gear is compatible.
9. Buy the boot that provides the best fit, even if it means moving to a different binding system. Look for boots that fit snugly in the calf and heel but do not crush your toes; get the smallest boot that is comfortable when you're wearing one medium-weight sock. If you require very large boots, consider purchasing a wider-than-average board to prevent your toes from dragging in the snow. Boots range from $80 to $160.

What to Look For:

• Board, binding and boot compability
• Appropriate board length and stiffness
• Proper boot fit

Tips & Warnings

• A secondhand board can be a good deal. Check to see that it isn't bent or warped and that the edges are intact.
• Long jackets and waterproof pants with a reinforced seat will keep you dry and protected. Even experienced snowboarders spend considerable time on the ground.
• See How to Buy Clothes for Cold-Weather Activities.
• Even the most accomplished snowboarders can encounter the random tree or, worse, another body moving at high speed. Always wear a helmet (see How to Buy a Properly Fitted Helmet).