Snowboarding for beginners?

Question

I'm moving up north for school and I'm looking to buy a snowbaord and all the other equiptment needed. I have no idea what to look for when buying everything. What are some good brand names, and should I get the stuff from just a sports store like National Sports or Sport Check, or somewhere that sells mostly skii/snowboard stuff. Any tips are appreciated, thanks.

Answer 1

sounds like your comming "up north" to canada.

i'll tell you one thing....though everyone says these major chains have no idea what they're talking about.....sport check only employes people to work in their hardware section that know what they're talking about.

so yea you could check out them.

where in canada are you moving to? i live here, i might be able to help you out a little better.

now to answer your question.....

deff. rent for a little and get a feel of what length your looking for and how different boards feel.

once you figure it out, stick to trusted board brands like:

Burton, Forum, Rome, Ride, GNU, Libtech.

i'd suggest them all for boards.

Burton specifically for bindings because i've ridden many and many have not felt like Burton.

boots, thats a personal preferance. try on as many as you possibly can. do NOT settle for something. be absolutely sure in your purchase.

once again, let me know where your heading and i can direct you to a proper board shop.

Answer 2

Start With renting a board. For a week then go. Try snowboarding see how you like it. Then go from there.

If you like it. Try some brands like Burton, forum, Rome-SDS, Ride.  

I suggest Burton.

Board- Lex

Bindings- Notori

Boots- Q    ( yes, its just Q.)

That should be good for your information..

You look at jackets and pants yourself and find something you like.

But i would look around.

Don't go to any big sport shop.

Buy from the brand's site!

Answer 3

DONT go to a big sports store chain, like Gart Sports, for your gear.  The people who work there generally have no clue what they are talking about.  

If you are just starting, then you should go to an actual snowboard shop, and get good advice about what the best options are for your level, goals, and budget.

Answer 4

Rent your equipment the first 3 days and find out just what you need for your own style and comfort.  Different boards perform differently and the tune will make a difference.  Try to attend a demo days and use different setups. If you are just starting out, you might find a sale on demo equipment for a very reasonable price. Also some instructors may be selling off their equipment at the end of the season, but be careful buying any not new equipment, have it thoroughly checked by someone you trust who is not trying to sell it to you.