Extreme sports have been gaining a lot of steam in the sports world today. The events in this type of sport are extremely fun to watch, which is why more and more people are beginning to take notice of it. Participation in such events, however, is a much more difficult task compared to other sports, hence, the addition of the word “extreme”.

Among the list of extreme sports, snowboarding is touted as one of the most popular. The sport is held during winter and involves going down a ski slope using a special kind of board attached to the rider’s feet using a specialized boot. It is quite a tricky sport to learn and involves a lot of skills, balance, and athleticism.

Specialized gears are also needed for snowboarding, so before thinking about a career in this extreme sport, choosing the correct gear is very important. Of course, the most important item before trying out snowboarding would be the snowboard itself.

Choosing a snowboard is not as simple as just picking out one in a funky color or one with a cool design. There are several factors to consider before buying a snowboard such as the ability level of the rider, the width and length of the snowboard, the riding style of the rider, and the preferred terrain. All of these factors must be taken into consideration in order to achieve the optimum snowboarding experience. Using the correct snowboard could also lessen the rider’s trips to the ice cold ground.

Assessing one’s ability level as a snowboarder is very important in choosing a snowboard. This is because there are different types of snowboards that are designed specifically to address each rider’s needs. Depending on the rider’s ability level, a snowboard type may differ in size, shape, construction and materials used. Some snowboard stores also offer snowboards categorized under the following level: beginner to intermediate; intermediate to advanced; and advanced to expert.

The correct width for a snowboard depends on the rider’s boot size. In choosing the correct width, the snowboard boot should slightly hang over the edges of the snowboard in order to have control even during sharp turns. It has to be emphasized that boots should not hang over the edge of the snowboard too much as this might cause the rider to fall during sharp turns. There are charts that riders can consult in order to determine the correct snowboard width based on their snowboard boot size. The width size usually varies from narrow and regular to mid-wide and wide.

If the correct width of the snowboard depends on the rider’s boot size, choosing the correct snowboard length depends on the rider’s body weight. Again, many stores provide a chart to determine the correct length to choose depending on the rider’s weight. However, riders may still choose a snowboard length shorter or longer than what is suggested in the chart, depending on the rider’s type of riding. For example, a longer board may be a better choice to achieve more stability, especially when a rider is planning to freeride.

The riding style is also a consideration before buying a snowboard. Many stores provide different snowboard types depending on the rider’s style. Along with this, it is also important to take note of the terrain the rider will be snowboarding in; again, to get the correct type of snowboard. For example, for riders who often ride in a backcountry terrain, the freeride snowboard would be perfect as it is designed with a stiffer flex which is great for riding in one direction only. Powder snowboards, on the other hand, are designed specifically for riders who often ride in a powdered slope. This type of snowboard is built with a wide nose and narrow tail which is perfect for the said terrain.

Snowboarders will never run out of options when it comes to choosing a snowboard as stores sell many varieties that cater to different levels of expertise. Beginners should also do research first before picking out the correct snowboard for them to have a fun and safe snowboarding experience.

Know more about snowboard sizing (click here) for a safer and better ride. Visit http://www.snowboardsizing.org.

Know more about snowboard sizing at http://www.snowboardsizing.org/category/snowboard-sizing-chart/ for a safer and better ride.

Author Bio: Know more about snowboard sizing (click here) for a safer and better ride. Visit http://www.snowboardsizing.org.

Category: Recreation
Keywords: snowboard sizing, snowboarding, snowboard, skiing, winter sports, extreme sports, sports, recreation