How to select/ buy a snowboard?

Question

I just moved to the States; I'm a Surfer and a Skater but can't do it anymore were I am... I want to start snowboarding and want to buy a new board... I'm 5'3", 115 pounds. How do I select the perfect size, type and brand for me?

Answer 1

board length depends on your weight, not your height. shoe size is also important. a 146-150 is about the size that you would need. different boards have different weight ranges. if you want a board that will last you get a burton.

Answer 2

you have to ask yourself a few questions...

big mountain or park?

powder board or regular everyday usage?

speed or ease of spin?

former(pow) your gonna want a longer wider and stiffer board, the latter (park) your gonna want a shorter,lighter, springyboard

park boards should be about to your nose or under you chin, a pow board can be just about as tall as you are, good luck in your search

Answer 3

For the length use this formula:  

Your height (inches) x 2.54 x 0.88 = Suggested Board Length (cm)

If you're a beginner you should probably just go for this length.  This is generally the formula they will use to determine what size board to lend you when you rent a board as well.  Once you get more experienced you can decide on maybe getting a shorter or longer board to suit your riding style / needs.

Board width is important as well.  

If you wear a men's 8 or smaller, get a board that is 24 cm wide or less (narrow).

If you wear between men's 8.5 - 10.5, get a board that is 24 - 26 cm wide (regular).

If you wear mens 10.5 of larger, get a board that is at least 26 cm or larger (wide).

Answer 4

Go to a store and talk to an employee there.  They'll be able to size you up and match you with a board.  The length should hit somewhere between your collar bones and nose but the exact length will depend on what you want to ride, your weight and how flexible the board is.

Since you're starting you will want an all mountain board and one that's not too long to help you learn your turns.  All mountain is good for beginner because they're not too stiff and will work in the park and in powder.

As far as brand goes, there's no "perfect" brand for you.  There will be a board that matches your height/weight/riding style and budget.  Whatever brand it may be is all good.  Don't listen to the fanboys who will only recommend Burton, there are many many other companies out there who have excellent products.

Try heading up to the mountain and renting a board and getting a lesson just to get a feel for it before you go and lay down a fat stack of cash on a board.