Are you planning on going on a snowboarding trip? If you are, there are a few things you need to have with you. These are the snowboarding essentials that you can not live without. Whether you’re a beginner in this sport or have been doing it for years, before the season starts make sure you have everything that is on this list. Also check that all the things are in good condition. Maybe you lost one glove last year? Maybe your bindings broke, maybe there is a big gash at the bottom of your board etc… So here are the most important things that are a must have and that you must check before the season starts:
Right Combination of Clothes
Snowboarding will subject you to harsh and cold weather conditions so obviously you will need some warm clothes. First oyu will need a waterproof and windproof external layer that will ensure snow and water is kept out so you stay dry and warm.
Your innerwear on the other hand should be well insulated and feature the best material for sweat-wicking. This material will ensure that even as you sweat, your clothes don’t become damp. This will help avoid any effects on your body in terms of temperature changes.
You should also aim to have a few layers of clothes that you can layer accordingly. This way you can add or remove layers when weather becomes warmer or colder.
Snowboarding jacket should also have some pockets for snacks and your gloves, phone pocket, powder skirt etc…
Gloves and Mittens
Your hand will be in contact with the snow a lot when you snowboard. They are one of the first parts of your body that get wet and cold. This is why you should consider investing in high quality gloves or mittens to help avoid this.
Mittens work by keeping all your fingers together so they share the warmth. Gloves on the other hand are preferred because they offer more dexterity giving you more control over other things you want to do with your fingers.
Again, not any winter glove is ok for snowboarding. You want waterproof and highly durable gloves that can take some abuse and dragging over snow. Regular gloves will be wet in no time. You should also consider gloves with additional features.
These features include heat pocket packets that add to your warmth, a goggle squeegee that helps you wipe your goggles, and touch screen compatibility to better use your phone.
Goggles
Your goggles protect your eyes from snow, glare, and wind. Some people ride without them but it’s better for the eyes to use goggles and when you get used to them it is really hard to go without.
You should get some high-quality goggles that will last and do the job right. They should also you perfectly and not leave any spaces on the sides.
They should also go hand in hand with your helmet (so there are no gaps between goggles and your helmet) and be big enough to accommodate your prescription glasses. To get the best goggles for your snowboarding trip, check out Fetoptics.com and cope yourself some quality options.
Quality Footwear
When snowboarding, you’ll need to invest in quality snowboarding boots. Bad boots can result in cold feet or even worse in pain in your feet and tired muscles. Bad boots can really cut your snowboard day short.
If you don’t have all the necessary equipment you can also rent it. Ski resorts usually have equipment rental where you can usually rent snowboards and snowboard boots. But if you are serious about snowboarding you should get your own boots. Modern boots are designed to adjust to your feet so rental boots will never fit that good.
This means that owning your pair of boots is a worthwhile investment. Make sure that the boots you get are snug and comfortable to avoid any pains and restrictions.
Helmet
Your helmet is the most important piece when it comes to safety. It will protect your head and brain from any damage. Especially if you are a beginner, you will crash a lot and if you are unlucky you will also hit your head on the snow. When you get better falls become more rare, but when you fall it is usually worse because you are faster on more difficult terrain or even doing tricks in the park. Either way, having a helmet on your head at all times is paramount.
Helmet also won’t help you much if it is too big, so make sure you get one that fits well. And as already said, make sure it is compatible with your goggles.
Snowboard and Bindings
If snowboarding is something you are serious about, then investing in your own snowboard is something that should be on the top of your list. If you are just trying it out for the first time, then renting is great. Maybe you won’t even like it(doubt it though haha). There are lots of snowboards in the market that come in different types and features. You should get one that first your riding style and types of conditions you usually ride. When you purchase your snowboard is it best to also get bindings. This way they will set them up for you in the shop and make sure they work with your board (usually they do, but there are some exceptions).
When it comes to bindings your shoe size is also important. If you already have your snowboard boots, bring them with you and try them with the bindings. If not just make sure you check the sizes.
Quality Socks
Protecting your feet from the cold will make your day on snow much more enjoyable. Nothing can ruin your day like cold feet. So choose socks that are warm but at the same time choose a pair of socks that have sweat-wicking abilities. If the boots you’ll be wearing will make you sweat, having socks that absorb the sweat without remaining wet is important.
Conclusion
These are the main things you will need to go snowboarding or things that you should check before the season starts.