How to Get Started Series: Snowboarding

This Winter, we’ve had an abundance of snow and chances are you might be experiencing a little cabin fever. That makes it the perfect time to learn a new outdoor sport like snowboarding! We know that your first trip out can be a mix of nervousness and excitement all at once, but with the guide we’ve put together, you’ll be prepared to hit the slopes and have some Winter fun!

Gear Essentials

No matter your skill level, the right gear is essential to safety and ensuring a great snowboarding experience.

1. Snowboard: To get started, you will need a snowboard. You can rent these at the resort before you purchase your own. Boards do come in different types (alpine, freestyle, and freeride). If you are a Beginner, you may prefer a freestyle board your first few times out, as they are shorter and easier to control.
2. Bindings: You will need bindings to fasten your boots to the board. Like boards, they also come in different sizes. If you are renting from a resort, the resort employees can help you in selecting your bindings and make sure that they fit with your boots.
3. Snowboard Boots: These boots are designed to connect to your snowboard via the bindings. They come in regular shoe sizes and should be snug, but not too tight. You can also rent snowboard boots at the resort, but we advise against it since these boots are designed to conform to your feet.
4. Snowboard Socks: Snowboard socks are crucial! Your feet will sweat from the heat of your boots, so you are going to need socks that are thin, wick moisture away from the skin, and are high enough to prevent your boots from rubbing against your skin. Socks that are too thick will cause your feet to sweat and lose warmth.
5. Snowboard Helmet: Your brain is your most valuable organ and protecting it is a must! When you’re first starting out you will struggle with balance and control, so never forget your helmet. If you do forget it or do not own one, they are available to rent from the resort.
6. Snowboard Jacket: A good snowboard jacket will have a wind and waterproof outer shell and will also be breathable at the same time. While shredding on the mountain, the weather can change on a dime, so a jacket that specializes in temperature control is key to keeping you comfortable.
7. Snowboard Pants: Just like your jacket, your pants also need to be weather-proof and allow breathability. A good pair of snowboard pants will prevent water from seeping through and touching your skin when you fall in the snow.
8. Layers: Always make sure you have the proper clothing and watch weather reports before your trip. It’s going to be cold, that you know, so dress in layers in case you get too warm and need to remove a base or mid-layer, but still maintain a good body temperature.
9. Snowboard Gloves: You will need gloves that are waterproof and insulted to protect your hands from the snow and cold. A good pair will keep you dry, warm, and on the mountain all day!
10. Snowboard Goggles: Your eyes are another important organ you want to protect! Invest in a good pair of goggles to protect your eyes from the Sun’s harmful rays, the glare on the snow, wind, and any flying debris that you may encounter while on the slopes.

Once you have all your gear and a resort picked out, it’s time to shred. Before going solo, sign-up and take a beginner’s course at the resort to get a feel for the board.

Now that you have the basics, stop by one of our locations and our knowledgeable staff will help you get the snowboarding gear you need to get started and answer any questions that you may have. Gear up for adventure with Ramsey Outdoor!