What To Look For
You'll be shopping for three main pieces of snowboarding equipment: boots, bindings and snowboard. For best results, shop for all three together and make sure that each piece works with the next.
Start by trying on some snowboard boots. Make sure that the boots are snug on your feet, with your toes just brushing the front of the boot and your heel planted firmly even when you lean forward. Be sure that there is zero or minimal heel lift and that the boots are tight, without being uncomfortable or painful. Also look for features such as BOA or speed lacing, which will provide a quicker, tighter fit, and zone lacing, which will allow you to customize fit on the forefoot and ankle separately. Look for stiffer bindings for freeride and more flexibility for freestyle. Make sure to get a size that properly fits your boots and look for adjustable, easy-to-operate hardware.
Find a board that meets your style (freestyle, freeride, park, powder, etc.) and size it. Aim for a board that falls between your chin and nose or refer to size and weight guidelines for the specific board. If you're boot size is 10 or over, check to make sure your toes don't overhang on the board and opt for a wide board if they do. Beginners should look for a more flexible board that is on the shorter end, while intermediate riders and above should consider their own style and preferences when choosing a board.
Common Pitfalls
Don't overbuy. It is common for beginners to think that buying an advanced board will compensate for lack of experience, but more advanced boards are usually stiffer and less forgiving than cheaper, beginner boards. A board aimed at beginners will be easier to learn on than a more expensive advanced board, so purchase a board that is designed for your needs. Also don't size up drastically as a larger board will be inherently more difficult to control.
Finally, put as much thought and effort into getting your boots and bindings as you do your board. While the board is the coolest part of the equation, boots and bindings are equally important. Shop thoroughly and get the set-up that meets your needs.
Where To Buy
It's always best to purchase snowboarding equipment at a local shop, especially when it comes to boots. Ski and snowboard shops will offer the best selection of equipment and the most knowledgeable sales staff.
You can also find snowboarding gear at sports stores like the Sports Authority and Dick's. When shopping online, sites like Dogfunk and The House offer good beginner packages. Other good sites to shop include Sierra Snowboard and REI.
Cost
Snowboard equipment prices vary greatly depending upon what you buy, when you buy it and where you buy it from. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $300 to more than $1,000 for a package of snowboard, boots and bindings. Shop in the late or off season for the best deals on equipment.
Accessories
Two accessories that you'll want to consider buying with your snowboard package are a stomp pad and leash. A leash is only useful if your local resort requires one, so double check with it. A stomp pad will give you extra grip when you're using your rear foot to skate. Some riders opt to ride without a stomp pad, but this can cause you to slip on the board. If you're in doubt, try it out first before buying.
