Which snowboards are best?
One of the most exhilarating and rewarding outdoor winter sports is snowboarding. While welcoming to all ages and skill levels, it can be a physically challenging, mentally stimulating and emotionally satisfying athletic pursuit. Of course, you need the right snowboard to truly enjoy the slopes.
Our guide will help you find the right snowboard for your adventure, as well as inform you as to what to look for as you progress. Our top pick, STAUBER Summit Snowboard & Binding Package, is geared toward more advanced snowboarders.
What to know before you buy snowboards
Your details
Height and weight will influence the length of the board you purchase, while your shoe size will determine the width of the board. Boards that are too long will be harder to control, while undersized boards will be unstable. Generally, women will need a slightly more narrow and lighter board, while men require wider boards. Kids should also get a snowboard made for their height and weight, regardless of their age.
Shape
Boards are either twin tip or directional. Twin tip boards are symmetrical, and either end can take the lead, allowing you to easily switch your front leg. These are regularly used by those performing tricks and stunts. Directional boards have a designated tip and tail and are often preferred for long runs down the slope.
Type
Where and how you plan to board will influence the type of snowboard you should get. Here are the main options:
- All-mountain: These popular all-around boards are equipped to tackle most terrains in most conditions and are a great choice for beginners.
- Freestyle: This is a shorter, twin-tip board geared for those who want to have fun and feel exhilarated. Higher speeds are able to be achieved, but control is sacrificed.
- Freeride: This directional type of board is good for the backcountry, especially in ungroomed snow.
- Powder: As the name suggests, this board is designed to float easily over fresh powder. It’s often directional with a flat or rocker curve.
- Splitboard: This board is a favorite for backcountry adventurers, as it can be split into two pieces and connected back together as the terrain changes your needs.
What to look for in quality snowboards
Edges
Snowboards will either have a partial or complete steel edge to help with carving and taking turns. Complete steel edges run around the entirety of the board and tend to be more expensive than partial steel edges that stop at the tip and tail.
Flex
How a board bends and responds to the ground influences how it rides.
- Camber: An upward flex results in a responsive board best suited for active, more skilled boarders.
- Flat: Boards that sit right against the snow are easier to control and turn.
- Rocker: The opposite of camber, this sports a downward flex and is beneficial for newbies on the slopes.
- Mixed: Some boards are hybrids featuring unique flexes that cater to specific styles and users.
Graphics and design
The top of most boards will sport a design, color pattern, or printed graphic. This is a good way to show off your personality and attitude, especially when matching it to your outfit. Unique graphics and carefully decorated boards will usually cost more.
How much you can expect to spend on snowboards
While you can find a decent beginner or kids board for under $200, a quality snowboard with detailed graphics, the desired flex and right fit can cost between $200 and $700. With proper care, though, these should last many seasons.
Snowboards FAQ
How do I maintain my snowboard?
A. Regularly examine your board for any scrapes, gouges or rust. Some issues you can tend to at home, while others need to be handled by a professional. Sharpen the edges regularly and store your board once it’s fully dry in a cool spot. You may want to invest in a case to keep it protected when stored or transported.
Should I wax my snowboard?
A. While most snowboards are factory-waxed and ready to use right off the shelf, many users want to regularly wax the snowboard themselves. Wax can help increase the longevity of the board, protecting the bottom, and also increase efficiency and effectiveness while riding depending on the conditions outside.
What are the best snowboards to buy?
Top snowboard
STAUBER Summit Snowboard & Binding Package
Our take: High-quality, responsive snowboard for serious boarders.
What we like: Double camber allows for lots of pop and high speeds. Holds up in tricky conditions. Strong core for aggressive users.
What we dislike: Slightly more narrow width than comparable boards.
Worth checking out
Our take: Quality beginner to intermediate women’s board with a beautiful, subtle design.
What we like: Mixed rocker camber offers both control on turns and stability when gliding. The durable construction is made to withstand wear and tear.
What we dislike: Not ideal for tricks and lacks some flexibility.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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