hoosing the right snowboard size is critical to maximizing your performance and fun on the slopes. If you’re asking, “What size snowboard should I get?” here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide based on height, weight, shoe size, riding style, and experience level.
Rider Profile Considerations
When selecting a snowboard, consider your physical characteristics:
- Height: Generally determines the length of the snowboard.
- Weight: Influences the board’s flexibility and endurance.
- Shoe Size: Affects the width of the snowboard to prevent toe and heel drag.
General Snowboard Lengths by Height
- Under 5’2″: Consider a snowboard length of 140-145 cm.
- 5’2″ to 5’7 “: A good range would be 145-150 cm.
- 5’7″ to 6’0 “: Look for a board that runs 150-160 cm.
Riding Style Influence
- All-Mountain: Versatile boards that handle various conditions and terrains.
- Freestyle: Shorter boards for easier maneuverability and tricks.
- Park & Pipe: Durable boards with specific shapes for park features and jumps.
Experience Level Impact
- Beginner: Shorter boards can be more forgiving and more accessible to control.
- Intermediate: A slightly longer board provides stability without compromising maneuverability.
- Advanced: Longer, specialized boards cater to advanced techniques and speeds.
Snowboard Size Chart
Refer to the following general snowboard size chart for a starting point tailored to your attributes and preferences.
Height | Weight | Snowboard Length (cm) |
Under 5’2″ | Average Weight | 140 – 145 |
5’2″ to 5’7″ | Average Weight | 145 – 150 |
5’7″ to 6’0″ | Average Weight | 150 – 160 |
6’0″ and up | Average Weight | 160+ |
This chart is a general reference and does not account for weight or shoe size, which can impact board width and flex.
Final Advice
Consider all factors mentioned, and remember, personal preference and comfort play a significant role. Test different sizes to see what works best for your riding style and experience.
Finding the perfect snowboard size can enhance your control, performance, and overall enjoyment on the mountain, so it’s worth investing the time to get it right. Happy shredding!