How to Choose a Racing Snowboard

If you're planning to hit the slopes this winter and want to learn how to race and navigate steep turns, you need to pick the right racing snowboard first. Height, weight and shoe width are all considerations in finding the perfect board. You want something stable enough to hold at high speeds while lightweight enough to offer flexibility. Spend some time with your local retailer and try a few test runs to see how it holds up on a race to the finish.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Snowboarding boots
Snowboarding boots

Step 1

Determine your weight in correlation to the size of your board. If you have a moderate to heavy frame, you should choose a longer and less flexible board to avoid washing out at higher speeds. A lightweight person with a small frame needs a short and flexible board to ensure control and precise turns.

Step 2

Measure how long your racing snowboard should be. Stand the board up and make sure the top reaches your chin or nose. If not, you may need a longer board. If it reaches the tip of your head, you probably need something smaller. Ask your local retailer to assist you with measurements.

Step 3

Study the selection of boards at your local retailer and ask about construction and durability. While older boards may be less expensive, they are typically made of wood or foam cores and are durable for freestyle snowboarding. Newer boards usually use carbon fibers and contain a stiff core for speed and precision.

Step 4

Rent the same style and size racing snowboard you intend to purchase and take it out for a test run. This will give you an idea of its handling, speed, precision and comfort. Ask your local retailer for assistance and shop around to find the best options available.

Step 5

Choose a narrow racing snowboard for increased speed and navigation. Make sure to strap into your bindings and place them how you stand when you ride. Check to see that the boots are flush to the edges of the snowboard and your toes and heels don't touch the edge or go over the edge. This ensures your ability to apply pressure, as well as keeping your toes and heels from dragging.

Tips & Warnings

Choosing a racing snowboard that is too narrow could cause your toes and heel to drag while turning.

A shorter racing snowboard is more unstable at higher speeds.

Article Written By Contributing Writer

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