Snowboard Sizing - Choosing the Right Size

Snowboard sizing is an art as much as it is a science. If you go by the sizing charts, you choose your snowboard according to how tall you are and how much you weigh - and to a certain extent that 's true. Ultimately, however, the right snowboard for you is the one in which you feel more comfortable and control with on the slopes.

You should never buy a snowboard without first trying out different types of snowboards to determine what you really like in a snowboard. The two most important human factors in choosing a snowboard are the height and weight of the snowboarder. The two most important snowboard factors in choosing a snowboard are the length of the snowboard and it's width, with many experts considering the width to be the most important criteria.

To begin your snowboard selection process, go to a local snowboard rental shop, preferably one that does a lot of business and has a wide selection of snowboards. Their staff will most likely be experienced and able to answer most of your questions.

If you're a beginner, start by choosing a board that comes somewhere between your chin and your nose when you stand it up. Many shops will also have sizing charts nearby which lists recommended snowboard lengths for men, women, and children. Weight is also a factor in choosing a snowboard length. The general rule is that if you weigh 100 to 150 pounds, the length should be about 151 cm, adjusting the length by 4 cm. for each 15 pounds heavier or lighter.

There is no one size fits all solution for snowboard lengths and you may eventually find that you are more comfortable with a shorter snowboard or a longer one, but these two guidelines are a good place to start.

Now, find the boots and bindings that you are comfortable with. When your boots are in place on the board, neither your heel or your toes should be hanging over the sides. If they are, the board is too narrow, and you need to get a wider one. The perfect board width will be one where your toes and heels are as close to the edge as possible, without overlapping it. Again, you may decide that you like a wider board than normal, but this is a good place to start. As a general rule, a board that is narrow will be more maneuverable than one that is wider.

Once you have chosen your snowboard, don't buy it, but rent it and take it out to the slopes. Based on your experience, you will either decide that the height and width are perfect for you or you will adjust the length and width of the next board you rent. Keep renting until you find the board that is perfect for you.

Keep in mind that boards from all manufacturers are not the same - quality or material wise. Rent boards from different manufacturers and different models to get a good feel for what you like.

History Of Early Snowboard Bindings
The history of early snowboard bindings reveal much about how the snowboarder and snowboard interface today.

How To Snowboard
It's impossible to learn how to snowboard simply by reading about it or watching backyard snowboard videos. Nevertheless, here are some tips for the beginning snowboarder.

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