Choosing the right snowboard

Starting snowboarding can seem overwhelming with all the gear needed: boots, clothing, gloves, beanies, goggles, and a snowboard. But where to begin? This guide aims to answer your basic questions and get you ready to hit the slopes.

Right size of snowboard?

How do you know which snowboard length is right for you? It depends on your weight and the type of snowboarding you plan to do. The easiest way to pick a snowboard is to have it reach your chin; it's a good starting point. However, your skill level, weight, and the board's build are also crucial. For freeriding, a slightly longer board offers stability and speed, but for freestyle riding, smaller sizes are better for easy spins and tricks.

Remember these tips:

• Shorter boards are good for park or freestyle riding.
• Longer boards suit all-mountain, powder, or freeriding, or try a volume shifted board.
• Heavier riders might need a longer / stiffer board.
• Beginners can start with shorter boards in their size range.
• If your boot size is 11 or larger, consider getting a wide board.
• Ride less than 10 days a year? Consider getting a board a few centimetres shorter.
• Ride more than 25 days a year? Consider getting a board a few centimetres longer.
• Kids boards are tricky but shorter can be easier to learn on.

Different types of snowboard /  terrain.

A All-Mountain snowboard is a versatile type of snowboard designed to perform well across various terrains and snow conditions. It's ideal for riding on groomed trails, in powder, through trees, and even in the park. This board provides a good balance between stability, maneuverability, and control, allowing riders to explore different parts of the mountain without needing multiple specialized boards.

Wired boards that fit into this category.

Wired Drift Series

Wired Seeker Series

Wired Directive Series

Wired Recon Series

Wired Devun Walsh Series

Wired Vantage Series

photo: Edwin Poulston

A Freestyle snowboard is a type of snowboard made for doing tricks and jumps in the terrain park or halfpipe. It's designed to be shorter, lighter, and more flexible than other boards, making it easier to spin, jump, and perform tricks. These boards are usually twin-shaped, meaning they have the same shape and flex from tip to tail, allowing riders to go forward or backward with ease. Freestyle boards offer more maneuverability and playfulness for those who love performing tricks and jumps on the slopes.

Wired boards that fit into this category.

Wired Drift Series

Wired Directive Series

Wired Devun Walsh Series

A Freeride snowboard is crafted for riding in ungroomed snow or off-trail areas. These boards are designed to handle various terrains like deep snow, backcountry, or steep slopes. They're usually longer and stiffer to offer stability and control while cruising down the mountain. Freeride boards provide better floatation in powder snow and more control in challenging conditions, making them ideal for riders who enjoy exploring different terrains and riding styles.

Wired boards that fit into this category.

Wired Seeker Series

Wired Recon Series

Wired Vantage Series

A Powder snowboard is made especially for deep snow conditions. These boards are wider, with a unique shape that helps riders stay afloat on powdery terrain. They're built to provide more surface area, preventing sinking in the snow and allowing for smoother turns. Powder snowboards typically have a setback stance to keep the nose higher for better maneuverability in deep snow, offering riders an exhilarating experience in fresh, fluffy powder.

Wired boards that fit into this category.

 Wired Chase Series

A Splitboard snowboard is designed for backcountry adventures. It can split into two separate skis, allowing snowboarders to hike up snowy slopes and then join the pieces together for the descent. This type of board enables riders to explore remote, untracked areas by climbing up mountains and riding down the backcountry terrain. It offers versatility for those who enjoy both snowboarding and skiing in less accessible, wilder environments.

Wired boards that fit into this category.

Wired Trek Series

Wired Crest Series

Do I need a wide snowboard?

Choosing the correct snowboard width means your boots will slightly extend beyond the edges of the board. However, too much overhang may lead to toe or heel drag and loss of control. Slight overhang will allow you to quickly transfer the power from your movements to your edges to turn your board. Somewhere between 8 and 13 mm seems to be OK. Anymore than that you start to get toe and heel drag which is not ideal and you might need a wider snowboard.

Choosing the right size of board.

Begin by locating your height in the left columns and your weight in the top row. Then, follow across from your height and down from your weight to find the recommended board size.

Youth Snowboard Size Guide

Women's Snowboard Size Guide

Men's Snowboard Size Guide