How to Size Your Snowboard

There was a time when all you had to do to size a new snowboard was stand it up next to you to see if the top reached your chin. If it did, it meant that it was the perfect size for you. While that is still a good place to start, you also need to consider factors such as your weight, your ability level, the construction of the board, and the kind of snowboarding you plan to do. For example, if you're primarily interested in freeriding, you should consider a longer board to give yourself more stability and speed. If you want a freestyle snowboard, you'll want to go with something a little smaller for more maneuverability in half-pipes and terrain parks. There are a variety of lengths and heights that a snowboard comes in, so it's important to find the one that fits you best.

Snowboard Length

The best way to size a new snowboard is to look at a sizing chart. This will tell you the best size range for you based on your height and weight. A properly sized snowboard can fall anywhere between your forehead and collarbone. As for the exact size you want within your range, there are some general guidelines that you should follow. First of all, if you're a freestyle snowboarder and you're planning to spend more time at a park, go with something shorter. If most of your snowboarding will be down the side of a mountain, go with something longer or invest in a volume-shifted board, which will be shorter and wider. You should also stick to a longer board if you are above your average weight for your height. Finally, you should stick with a shorter snowboard if you're a beginner since it will be a little easier to maneuver. The type of activity you plan on doing with the board will affect the size it should be.

Height and Weight

The weight of the rider is the most important factor that affects the length of a snowboard. The rider's weight is the determining factor when it comes to choosing the perfect board. When purchasing a snowboard, the flex of the board is designed to behave in a way that allows the rider to manipulate the board for optimal performance. However, if the rider is too heavy or light, the flex will not behave as designed. If you are too heavy for the board, it will flex more than it should. Conversely, if you are too light for the board, you may not be able to provide enough pressure to make the board work properly. To determine if you are over or under-weight, evaluate the board's intended rider size and select a board that is within your weight range. Although the weight of the rider is the most important factor that affects the length of a snowboard, height is also a factor that's involved. For instance, taller riders often have a wide stance; selecting a board below their recommended height might result in a board that's too short for their requirements. On the other hand, if a shorter rider has a wide stance, they might end up with a board that's too short for their needs.

Snowboard Width

When a snowboard is sized correctly, the toes and heels of your boots will hang slightly over the edges. This will allow you to apply leverage to your board and make it easier for you to maneuver. Keep in mind that your boots should only hang slightly over the edges of your board; they shouldn't touch the snow when the board is on its edge.

As you can see, there's a lot to consider when choosing a snowboard. This will give you an excellent place to start when sizing your board, but you also have to consider your skill level and how you're going to use your board. All-mountain boards are suitable for beginners who will stick to easy mountain runs, while freestyle or freeride boards are ideal for more experienced riders who will spend time on terrain parks or away from smoother runs. Start with a good sizing chart, and don't hesitate to talk to an expert if you have any questions about your board.