How to get started with Snowboarding?
I have Skied before but i have never Snowboarded before. I am 5'10 so what size board would i need (if there even are sizes) and what other equipment would i need to snow board?
I have Skied before but i have never Snowboarded before. I am 5'10 so what size board would i need (if there even are sizes) and what other equipment would i need to snow board?
Nica Martinez
Favorite Answer
Clothing - You will definitely need a good wintersports jacket and pants. (Ski pants are often called salopets). Most people buy their wintersports clothing, but you might be able to borrow if you know someone who is a regular skier or boarder. The summer can be a good time to pick up ski clothing cheaply. Often outdoor shops will have a small selection of stock left over from the winter at sale prices. If you start buying early, this will spread the cost before winter.
Headgear, Gloves & Socks - Hat and gloves are essential. If you ski without gloves risk injury to your hands from the sharp ski edges, and of course your hands will get very cold and you will be in a lot of pain - there is a also a risk of frostbite on colder days. A hat is important in order to protect your ears from the cold, as well as providing comfort generally. The right socks are important too. Ski/snowboard socks are obviously the best thing. Wear a single pair of socks long enough to reach the top of the ski boot. Good walking socks might be okay but avoid football socks. Don't wear two pairs of socks. Wearing the wrong socks or more than one pair will quickly lead to blisters and sore feet.
Equipment - Skis / Snowboard and Boots - What you definitely do not want to buy as a beginner are skis/boots/poles or snowboard. Whether you see a bargain in the local paper (or eBay) or your uncle Fred has some old equipment in his attic, leave well alone.
Sun Protection - Sun protection is absolutely essential for both exposed skin and for your eyes. It is often assumed, incorrectly, that the sun does not burn you at low temperatures or in winter time. However, the level of UVB radiation at 2000m is 27% higher than at sea level.
Evening Wear - There may well be snow and ice on the ground - and the village is on a hill, so take this into consideration for your choice of footwear and clothes - you don't need to wear ski gear all the time. Walking boots or good trainers should suffice, and a warm jacket and jeans is normally enough.
Jim
You must first and foremost get a snowboard.