Renting Snowboarding Gear

If you're going snowboarding for the first time, or you simply don't own equipment, you'll need to rent. Renting snowboarding gear is a straightforward process with a few considerations.

Instructions

1. Decide if you're renting for the season or just for a specific trip. If you plan to snowboard a number of times and have a mountain nearby, it might be worth it to rent for the season. Do a quick calculation of how much daily rentals would be based on the number of days you'll be riding vs. renting for the full season.

2. Contact a local snowboard shop. Most snowboard shops offer rentals, but give a call to make sure. Also make sure of how much time it will take to get your snowboard rental ready. This will ensure that you have it when you need it (they'll need to adjust the bindings and tune it).

3. Go to the shop and get sized out. Staff can help you determine your size, stance, board and binding options. In general, you'll want a board that comes up between your chin and nose when standing on the ground. Staff can also help you determine your stance preferences and measure you for boots.

4. Try on snowboard boots. They should fit snugly with no heel movement.

5. Discuss which types of rental boards the store offers. You may have a choice between freestyle, all-mountain and freeride. There may also be different price levels depending on the condition and age of the board.

6. Consider insurance. Most shops offer insurance for an additional fee that covers you in the event the board is destroyed, stolen or damaged.

7. Consider other equipment you might need. In addition to a snowboard, bindings and boots, you may want goggles, a helmet and snowboarding clothes. Shops may rent some of these items. If not, you'll need to borrow or buy.

8. Rent at the resort. If there are no shops nearby, or you don't have time, every resort offers rental snowboards. You may even be able to purchase a package with lift ticket, rental and other services like a snowboard class.

9. Return your equipment. Get it back in time to prevent any late charges.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're looking to purchase equipment during the season or in the future, discuss demos and rent-to-buy season rentals that allow you to try out a snowboard that you could buy at the end of the season.

• Local snowboard shops often offer better rental deals than resort shops, although the quality of equipment may vary.

• Ride within your ability.

• Do not go into the backcountry without a partner, equipment and training.