Is my snowboard too large for me?

Question

I would consider an advanced beginner who can snowboard on an easy course. I have a board that is 155 long and it feels kind of difficult to make turns at faster speed or on steeper hills. Is it because the board is too long? Or is it because I have skinny legs with more mass on the upper body? I'm a male, 5'7", 140 lbs.

Should I get a board that is 150? Are the boots not on tight enough since I have a skinny calf? Thanks for your opinion.

Answer 1

For your height and weight a 155 is a little on the short side for you, you would be better off with a board around a 152 for an all mountain board or a 150 for a freestyle board. Dont listen to the people above who say get a board that goes from the floor to your chin, this method only works for some people. Your weight is actually the most important thing to consider when getting a board, for example take two people both are 5,7 tall but one weighs 100lbs the other weighs 200lbs if you went by the floor to chin method like the guys above recommend they would ride the same length board, when its obvious they shouldent.

If you have skinny calfs its possible your boots could be too wide for your feet?. If you find your heel often pulls up through your boot when riding then you would probably be better off with a tighter boot. Brands like Northwave, Salomon and Rome would probably suit you. Good luck with the riding.

Answer 2

The length of the board is only part of the story!  Yes, the board should come up to your chin with your boots on but more and more people are riding shorter boards now a days.

What is also important is the type of the board, park or all mountain, shape of the board (side cut) and the torsion and stiffness of the board (core profile).

You can get a 155 like a Burton Custom X and it will be a rocket, aggressive turning and zoom down the slope (Positive Core, big side cut and stiff with low torsion or you can get a Burton Custom where it is easy turning, smooth and relaxed, negative core, good torsion, good side cut and medium flex.  check out www.Burton.com

As well, the stiffness of your bindings also affects how you ride.  Too soft and you can't get an edge fast enough to turn, too hard and it becomes less maneuverable.  All depends on your riding style.  Normal groomed slopes or parks or a mix.

Always wear helmet, knee and elbow pads and a good butt protector!!!!

Answer 3

your board should come up to the bottom of your chin when you are standing up straight a 150 for your height should be just about right a longer board would be easier to ride but it takes more to make it turn as you mentioned something about the 155 board.  I am 5 foot 8 inches tall and I ride a 155.  The longer the board is the harder it is to make it turn making you think it is harder to control once you ride a certain board for awhile you will get used to it though.  The boots should be tight enough if not you can try wearing two pairs of socks it will make your feet hot but it may help out a little bit.. Hope that helps. GOOD LUCK!!