10 Beginner Snowboard Gear Tips

In the video titled “10 Beginner Snowboard Gear Tips” by SnowboardProCamp, Kevin shares his expertise and provides helpful advice for first-time snowboarders. He addresses common issues beginners face with their gear and offers solutions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable first day on the slopes. Kevin covers a range of topics, including helmet adjustment, wearing goggles underneath the helmet, proper positioning of face masks, the importance of pulling jackets over mittens, utilizing powder skirts on snowboard jackets, adjusting high backs on bindings, selecting the right-sized snowboard, and the benefits of wearing additional safety gear like crash pants and wrist guards. These ten tips aim to equip beginners with the knowledge they need to have a successful and comfortable snowboarding experience. So, whether you’re a newbie hitting the slopes for the first time or seeking to enhance your snowboarding skills, Kevin’s video offers valuable insights to help you navigate the world of snowboard gear more effectively. Beginner Snowboard Gear Tips

When it comes to snowboarding, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are several gear tips that can help you make the most of your time on the slopes. In this article, we’ll cover everything from adjusting your helmet to choosing the right size snowboard. So, let’s dive in and get started!

Adjusting your helmet

One of the most important pieces of gear for any snowboarder is a helmet. It’s crucial to ensure that your helmet fits properly and provides the necessary protection. When adjusting your helmet, make sure to snugly adjust the straps to keep it securely in place. However, be cautious not to tighten it too much, as it can become uncomfortable and even restrict your airflow. Adjusting your helmet before hitting the slopes will save you from the hassle of trying to adjust it with freezing-cold hands.

Wearing goggles underneath your helmet

To protect your eyes from the elements while snowboarding, wearing goggles is a must. It’s best to put on your goggles snugly before putting on your helmet. By doing this, you can minimize the gap between your goggles and your helmet, ensuring a tight fit. This close fit will prevent any air gaps and keep snow from getting inside your goggles, which can obstruct your vision and affect your performance on the slope.

Properly positioning your face mask or balaclava

Keeping your face covered while snowboarding is crucial, especially in cold and windy conditions. However, it’s important to position your face mask or balaclava correctly to avoid any discomfort. Make sure the fabric of your mask is not covering your mouth, as this can lead to wet spots forming around your mouth. Additionally, keeping your airway open will help you stay dry and comfortable throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to bring a second mask or balaclava as a backup, in case the first one gets wet or uncomfortable.

Keeping your gloves or mittens secure

Protecting your hands from the cold is essential while snowboarding. To keep your gloves or mittens secure, try pulling your jacket over them. This will create a barrier that prevents snow from getting up into your sleeves, keeping your hands dry and warm. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a second pair of gloves or mittens in case your first pair gets wet. This way, you can always ensure that you have dry and comfortable hand protection throughout the day.

Using the powder skirt on your jacket

When riding in deep snow or after a fall, snow can easily find its way up your back. To prevent this, many jackets come with a powder skirt. This is an adjustable strap that you can fasten around your waist to create a seal, preventing snow from getting inside your jacket. Using the powder skirt, along with having a jacket of good length, will act as an extra line of defense against snow entering your jacket while you’re sliding down the slopes.

Properly lacing up your boots

Having properly laced boots is essential for a comfortable and secure fit while snowboarding. To achieve this, start by doing up the inside laces first. This will ensure that your foot is properly aligned in the boot. Next, tighten both the lower and upper zones of the boot for a snug fit. Adjust the tightness of the laces according to your comfort level. If it’s your first day on the mountain and you anticipate some foot pain, you can loosen the lower area while keeping the upper area tight. This will provide your foot with some room to move around and help alleviate any discomfort.

Removing any material from inside your boots

Before hitting the slopes, it’s important to check for any material that may have found its way inside your boots. Pull your pants out and ensure they are covering the laces of your boots. This will prevent snow from getting inside your boots and also protect the laces from being undone or damaged. By keeping your boots dry and free from debris, you can ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Adjusting the high back on your binding

The high back on your binding plays a crucial role in your control and maneuverability while snowboarding. It’s important to set the high back angle to optimize your heel edge responsiveness. As a beginner, adjusting the high back to a three or four will be beneficial. This angle will provide a good balance of support and maneuverability, allowing you to develop your skills and progress comfortably. Understanding the significance of high back adjustment can greatly enhance your snowboarding experience.

Choosing the right size snowboard

Selecting the right size snowboard is essential for your overall performance and enjoyment on the mountain. The length of the snowboard should be based on your weight. You can refer to a snowboard sizing chart, either online or from a rental shop, to ensure you choose the appropriate size for your weight. The length of the snowboard determines how much weight the snowboard’s edge can hold, impacting your ability to turn and stop effectively. Choosing the correct size board will make your snowboarding experience more enjoyable and help you progress efficiently.

Considering other safety gear

While a helmet is the most crucial safety gear, there are other pieces that can further enhance your safety on the slopes. Crash pants, which protect your tailbone, and wrist guards, which prevent wrist injuries, are two common safety gears that beginners should consider. Wearing this additional safety gear will provide you with more confidence as you attempt your first turns and stops on the snowboard. Feeling secure and protected will enable you to progress faster and have a more enjoyable time on the slopes.

In conclusion, having the right gear and knowing how to use it properly is essential for a successful and enjoyable snowboarding experience. Adjusting your helmet, wearing goggles underneath your helmet, properly positioning your face mask or balaclava, keeping your gloves or mittens secure, using the powder skirt on your jacket, properly lacing up your boots, removing any material from inside your boots, adjusting the high back on your binding, choosing the right size snowboard, and considering other safety gear are all important aspects to consider when gearing up for the slopes. By following these tips, beginners can have a smooth and enjoyable first day of snowboarding while progressing faster. So, get out there, stay safe, and have fun shredding the mountain!