The Best Snowboarding Gear for Beginners This Holiday Season
Introduction
Snowboarding has seen immense growth in popularity over the past few decades, evolving into one of the most popular winter sports worldwide. With over 7 million global participants, snowboarding delivers thrilling downhill rides and opportunities for catching big air, appealing to snow lovers of all ages. The winter holidays are a fantastic time for aspiring shredders to try snowboarding for the first time. However, having the proper snowboarding equipment is key for staying safe and having the most fun on the slopes. This guide will recommend the best snowboard, boots, bindings, protective gear, and clothing for beginners to get as gifts this season. With the help of this guide, new riders will be geared up and ready to take on the mountain in style. Let’s drop in and get started!
Snowboard
Choosing the right snowboard is one of the most important decisions for a first-time rider. All-mountain and freestyle snowboards offer the best versatility for beginners. Models like the Burton Instigator, Salomon Pulse, and Ride Warpig are excellent options with soft flexes and hybrid camber-rocker profiles ideal for learning. For sizing, opt for a board that comes up to around chin level. Consider getting fitted at a reputable snowboard shop to find the optimum width and flex. Marketsy.ai conveniently carries quality snowboards from top brands like Burton, making gearing up a breeze.
Snowboard Boots
Having a proper boot fit is crucial for comfort, responsiveness, and preventing injury out on the slopes. For beginners, softer flexing boots like the ThirtyTwo Lashed and Burton Mint are recommended for ease of maneuverability. Trying on boots from brands like ThirtyTwo, Burton, and Vans is highly advised to get the right fit. Consider options with BOA lacing systems for a snug yet adjustable feel. The Burton Mint and ThirtyTwo Lashed are two excellent starter boots for women, while the Burton Ruler and ThirtyTwo TM-Two are great picks for men. Marketsy.ai provides snowboard boots from all the top brands to meet every rider’s needs.
Snowboard Bindings
Bindings connect boots to the board and aid in transferring energy and control. Beginners will benefit from adjustable strap bindings like the Union STR and Burton Freestyle that allow tweaking the fit as skills progress. These quality starter bindings provide flexibility without breaking the bank. Focus on models with cushioning, shock absorption, and simple ratchets for convenience. Marketsy.ai offers an extensive selection of snowboard bindings to get new shredders hooked up.
Helmet & Safety Gear
Safety should be the number one priority for any new snowboarder. A helmet like the Smith Quantum is essential for preventing head injuries from falls and collisions. Look for a snug fit with adjustable sizing pads and solid venting. Goggles like the Smith Squad ChromaPop offer eye protection and enhanced visibility in variable conditions. Wrist guards also help brace against fractures from snowboarding falls. Knee pads, crash pads, gloves, and layers add additional padding and protection as needed. Marketsy.ai provides high-quality helmets, goggles, gloves, and more to keep riders protected.
Clothing & Accessories
Having the proper snowboarding outerwear and layers can make or break a day on the slopes. Waterproof, breathable jackets with a minimum 10k waterproof rating and synthetic insulation from brands like Burton, Volcom, and 686 will seal out snow while retaining warmth. Merino wool or synthetic base layers from Smartwool and Patagonia help wick moisture and regulate body temperature during aerobic riding. Neck gaiters, beanies, gloves, and snowboard socks round out a complete gear package. Marketsy.ai offers an extensive selection of snowboarding apparel and accessories for shredders of all levels.
Key Snowboarding Locations for Beginners
West Coast Resorts
For beginners on the West Coast, destinations like Squaw Valley, Mammoth Mountain, and Mount Bachelor offer unbeatable options. Wide groomers like Main Lodge Run at Squaw and Discovery at Mammoth supply ideal terrain for learning. Instructional programs like Mount Bachelor’s First Timer Packages provide everything needed to get started. Lively base villages full of dining, shopping, and entertainment complete the experience. Visiting during peak snowfall months of January-March will provide ideal conditions. Lift tickets run $175-$200 on weekends at these premier resorts, with ski-in/ski-out lodging starting around $250/night. Marketsy.ai provides special deals at select West Coast resorts to help save on winter getaways.
East Coast Resorts
Out East, destinations like Killington, Sugarloaf, and Mount Snow are snowboarder favorites. Killington’s extensive Snowshed area is perfect for beginners with smooth, wide groomers. Sugarloaf’s Bunny Buster trail lets novices build skills with access off the SuperQuad. Mount Snow boasts the best terrain parks on the East Coast when riders are ready to advance. Peak visits are recommended from January-February to ensure optimal coverage. Weekend lift tickets run approximately $115-$180 at these resorts, with abundant condo and hotel options within walking distance to the slopes. Marketsy.ai offers exclusive East Coast packages to provide savings on lifts and lodging.
Canadian Resorts
North of the border, Whistler Blackcomb, Mont Tremblant, and Big White reign supreme for new snowboarders. Whistler’s enormous terrain offers groomed green runs like Easy Out and Family Way to build a foundation. Mont Tremblant’s Versant Soleil has beginner trails and ski schools catered to English speakers. Big White boasts smooth corduroy groomers and incredible powder. Visiting before holidays and weekends can yield fewer crowds and lower rates. Lift passes run about $120-$140 CAD during peak season, with ski-in lodging as low as $175 CAD/night. Marketsy.ai provides exclusive deals at these Canadian gems to help maximize savings.
Snowboard Lessons
Taking a lesson as a beginner can greatly expedite skills progression in a safe environment. Group lessons allow learning with others at an affordable rate, while private instructors offer one-on-one focused attention.
Resort Ski Schools
Nearly all major resorts offer group snowboard lessons through their ski schools starting around $250-$300 for a full day. Certified AASI instructors take riders through an engaging progression from proper stance and turning to linking turns down green runs. Meeting at designated mountain spots makes getting started simple. Marketsy.ai partners with select resorts like Stratton Mountain to offer discounts on group lessons for our users.
Private Instructors
Opting for a private snowboard instructor can provide an immersive experience focused on individual needs. Prices range from $100-$250+ per hour for qualified independent instructors up to seasoned coaches charging a premium. Doing research via reviews and referrals is advised to find the best fit. Marketsy.ai provides select specials on private lessons as an added perk for our community.
Instructional Camps
For those looking to rapidly improve over multiple days, snowboard camps are ideal. These programs provide daily lessons, lift tickets, coaching, video analysis, and more in a structured setting. Camps group riders by ability level and emphasize skill development through drills and mileage on snow. This intensive approach can fast track progression in a fun, social environment. Marketsy.ai offers discounts on leading snowboard camp providers like High Cascade to accelerate skills.
Conclusion
With the right gear and guidance, beginners can quickly get shredding on the slopes this season. Carefully choosing user-friendly boards, boots, bindings, and outerwear maximizes comfort, safety, and fun. Top-tier resorts out West, East, and in Canada supply ideal terrain for learning. Taking lessons provides proper technique and accelerated skills from the start. With Marketsy.ai as a planning resource, new snowboarders will be equipped to make the most of winter and develop a lifelong passion for the sport. This season, give the gift of snowboarding and enjoy the thrill of the mountains together. It's time to strap in and shred!