Snowboard
Look at snowboards that are built specifically for women with an ability level of beginner or beginner to intermediate. REI specialists advise that novice or casual riders should first determine their riding style, which is most often all-mountain. Other styles include freestyle/park and freeride. An all-mountain board is designed for exploring various terrains. Beginners can use this type of board on groomed slopes, backcountry and even at the park and pipe. Top-rated models include Burton Feelgood, Flow Jewel and Capita Saturnia. Both Flow Jewel and Capita Saturnia have top ratings at Sierra Snowboard. Snowboarder Magazine named Burton Feelgood the No. 1 Women's Best of Test. Refer to the specific board's sizing charts to find your appropriate match.
Boots and Bindings
Your snowboarding performance will be affected by how comfortable your boots are. Though many brands and sizes are available, the most important factor is how well they fit. REI snowboarding specialists recommend buying your snow boots first then matching them with the right bindings then proceeding to the snowboard. You need to go in person to get fitted for boots and bindings. Leading brands for snow boots and bindings include the Burton Escapade EST, according to Dogfunk.com. Other top-rated models at Dogfunk.com and Sierra Snowboard include the Burton Escapade, Forum Keeper and K2 Auto Agogo.
Helmet and Snow Goggles
A helmet and snow goggles will protect you against injury. According to the National Ski Areas Association, the use of a helmet reduces the incidence of any head injury by 30 to 50 percent. And REI indicates that snow goggles offer superior coverage from many on-the-mountain hazards such as UV rays, intense reflection of sun off the snow, strong winds, ice particles and twigs and branches. Snow goggles come in a variety of designs, colors and lens tints as do helmets. Top brands are Oakley, Smith and Anon for goggles and Bern, K2, Red and Giro for helmets.
Article Written By Rona Aquino
Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.
