How do I know what size snowboard fits me?

Question

I'm about 5'9" and130lbs. I've heard that the board should be taller than your chin, but shorter than your nose, in which case I would need about a 155. But I've also heard that weight is more important than height. I used the calculator from http://frostyrider.com/tips/size-guide.htm and it told me that I should use a 148. Does this seem accurate? I'm just starting out snowboarding so I don't really know what type of rider I am yet.

Answer 1

148 is to small for your height and build.

i am around the same height/build and i started off with a 154 and i thought that was to small so now i ride with a 157.

Another thing to remember the shorter the board the easier turn,and the longer the board the more stable it will be at speed

Answer 2

If you are renting a snowboard, most likely the people will pick the best board for you.  Thats true it should be around you chin/nose, but it depends on ability.  If your a beginner, you should have around your chin.  If your more advanced, its better to have a board that reaches your eyes, believe it or not.

hope i helped

Answer 3

I'm no expert, I also just started snowboarding. But all I know is that I rented a snowboard that fits those guidelines. When I was given it, they asked me if I was one of the kids who just "bombs" it down the hill. And yes, the last time I rented a snowboard that size I was, in fact, "bombing" it down the hill. I couldn't turn very well and almost slammed into somebody. So basically a smaller snowboard= more control, probably better for beginners.

Answer 4

The most important thing to remember is that longer snow boards go faster, so as a learner I would get one the 148. I'm a beginner and I always get one that fits just under my chin - anything above that seems to go a little bit too fast for me!

It's best to hire one and see how you feel on it rather than buy one out-right.

Answer 5

Ignore the calculator!  Length is important so you don't have a board that's ridiculously short or long but it's not the main factor in choosing a board.  Weight definitely plays a role.

Head to a shop and see what they have in stock.  All boards have a chart on them saying what weight range they're meant for.  That should be your main deciding factor (besides price).

That being said, 148 sounds short.  The shop that I bought my board at said the area a board will generally fall in is collarbones to nose.