How to Get Skiboarding Gear

Great skiboarding requires the proper gear. That includes skis, boots, bindings and helmets. Plus, there's clothing, bags to carry and protect skis, and waxes and tuning equipment to keep them in shape. Whether purchasing online or at a local sports equipment store, you can find a range of skiboarding gear for amateurs as well as professionals. To get outfitted with the essentials, peruse these tips. And get jamming!

Instructions

1. Select the right skiboards. Things to keep in mind are your height and weight, board construction and what you want to do on the boards. Skiboards are usually 75 to 90 centimeters long. Shorter ones are better for people 5 feet tall and under. Longer skis are best for powder, tricks and safe landings after catching air. Skiboard composition materials and construction quality will affect price. Ask a dealer or ski pro to help you choose the best skiboards for your needs.

2. Add bindings. Regular downhill ski bindings work just fine on skiboards, although sometimes the holes won't match. In that case, simply have new holes drilled. But you can also choose bindings specially made for skiboards. There's really little difference. And the type of bindings to choose--"release" or "non-release"--is up to you.

3. Slip into boots. Comfortable skiboarding boots are a must. You can't concentrate on boarding when your boots don't fit. Make sure they don't pinch anywhere, aren't too tight and don't cramp your toes by being too narrow or too short. Feet should fit snugly but comfortably inside, without slipping around. Proper fitting boots will let you stand and walk in comfort. Skiboard-specific boots are not necessary, although some models are available. They have been constructed with a forward pitch about the same as inline skates. But regular downhill ski boots sold by all the major ski equipment makers will work.

4. Leash those boards. A leash is a strap that wraps around the boot and attaches to the skiboard. The purpose is to keep the board from sliding away if detached. Nearly all resorts make leashes on skiboards a gear requirement, although some boards come with "brakes" that are meant to stop their slippery escape.

5. Protect your head. Get a helmet that is approved for prevention of head injuries during skiboarding, snowboarding or skiing. The major ski outlets have them. Nearly all come with chin straps, ventilation and insulation. Some have visors, goggle straps, ear warmers and quick release snaps. New models have audio connections so you can talk on a cell phone or listen to tunes while carving.

6. Wax those bottoms. Wax is an essential in skiboarding gear. It keeps the bottoms of boards in shape for jamming during heavy snow as well as warm weather. It also protects the bottoms from damage. Wax comes in several forms, including paste, stick and wipe-on.