How to Select a Snowboard for Racing

The racing snowboard is an aerodynamic rocket designed for gate racing, precise carving and tearing down the mountain at breakneck speeds.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Racing Bindings
• Helmets
• Racing Boots
• Snowboard Bag
• Snowboards
• Helmets

1. Consider your height. Adults typically ride a racing board between 150 and 190 cm.

2. Weigh yourself. A heavy rider will benefit most from a long board, but a smaller rider will find a long board difficult to control.

3. Be aware of board construction materials. Core stiffness and response are key factors in quick, precise turning. Many of the newest racing models contain a carbon fiber composite, while older models have wood or foam cores more suitable for freestyle riding.

4. Contact your local board shop or an online merchant for assistance in finding the board best suited to your specifications.

5. Rent a demo board before purchase, if possible. A test-drive can help you decide which board is right for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Start thinking about colors and graphics only after you've narrowed down your board choices.
• Racing boards are always long, narrow, stiff and unidirectional. The tail end of the board is flat, thus preventing "fakie" (reverse) riding. These qualities maximize the amount of surface area in contact with the snow, which allows for high speeds and precise turns.
• Hard boots (similar to ski boots) are essential for providing the ankle support necessary for high-speed riding.
• Alpine snowboarders typically ride with a narrow stance and both feet angled toward the nose of the board.

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