Snowboards
For a sport that didn't exist 20 years ago, snowboarding  didn't waste much time going mainstream. What was once the outcast sport of the mountain community now threatens to become the predominant way to get down the slopes. Young and old alike have been drawn not only to the sport but to the culture that has developed around it. Because of this, buying a snowboard isn't just about tech and specs. There's an emotional element, as people look for boards that define them as individuals. Luckily for the consumer there are plenty of manufacturers producing high quality sticks for every type of rider and personality.
Top Picks
Below are the top boards of 2006 chosen by About.com, selected to represent both inexpensive and high-end models.
Rider Characteristics
Let's start with you, the rider. You have to consider a few basic things, including your age, size and ability before you even start looking at board types. - Age: It is important to consider the rider's age, especially for growing riders who will need an extra inch or so of board to grow into.
- Weight: Weight is the most important rider characteristic in determining board size. When heavy riders try to use a board that is too short, it tends to perform poorly at high speeds. A lighter person on a longer board will usually have problems controlling it and initiating turns. On the other hand, if your height and weight are disproportionate, you may need to alter the guidelines. An unusually tall, skinny rider may opt for a longer board to gain leverage. The same holds true for a heavier/shorter rider; a shorter board will give a little extra leverage. To counteract being too heavy for a particular board length, you can always look for a stiffer board in the same length.
- Height: The general rule of thumb is to look for a board that hits you somewhere in the space between your shoulders and four inches over the top of your head. Sounds like a big gap, right? Well, within these boundaries you will want to choose either a short, medium, or long board. Which is best depends on your boarding style. Beginners should keep it short (chin or below), and the same goes for those who play in half pipes and do tricks. For the average intermediate rider who likes hills and parks, something eye level to chin level is perfect for extra versatility. Advanced riders, powder lovers and big mountain super stars should go for a long board that hits anywhere from eye level to above the head.
- Board Width: The board should be wide enough so that your boots fall just a centimeter or less over the board edges. Test it out for yourself before buying.
- Gender: A critical factor since a woman's foot size, center of gravity and distribution of body mass differs from a man's and all of these factors affect the way a snowboarder interacts with her equipment. Women's boards are designed to take these differences into account, plus they are narrower to accommodate smaller feet.
- Athletic Ability: A rider with extensive experience in other skate/board sports will probably want to invest more in his or her equipment since he or she will likely take to the sport more quickly. Someone with less outdoor sports experience might be better off keeping his or her equipment purchase more conservative.
- Graphic Appeal: Pick a board that matches your style and you'll enjoy it that much more even though die-hard riders may scoff at this being a decision factor. Remember that boards are a form of self expression!
- Budget: The most expensive equipment will not make you a better boarder, but better boarders will want more expensive equipment simply because they offer more advanced features and technology. Expect to spend $275 for an entry level board and more than $400 for a really good recreational board.
Board Types
Now that you know the basics of how to fit a board, it's time to learn about the types of boards that are available. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages that play a part in what type of boarding you plan to do.
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Freeride Boards
Freeride is an overused term that has come to encompass riders who enjoy all aspects of the mountain. A free rider isn't confined to the pipes and parks, but can also be found shredding the slopes, tearing through the back country and carving powder. - This board is designed for boarders who want to ride the whole mountain including the park and pipe.
- Freeride boards are made by all manufacturers, in every price range.
- The least expensive board produced today can out-perform the "signature" series boards of just 5 years ago.
- This is the best type of board to learn on and can be used anywhere on the mountain.
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Freecarve Boards
Freecarvers are the soul surfers of the mountain. Often former skiers, these riders like long runs that incorporate the whole slope. They're out there to enjoy the mountain, rather then get radical. - Freecarve boards are typically more expensive.
- Their configuration makes the board more suitable for higher speeds and cleaner carved turns.
- These boards tend to be longer.
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Alpine/Race Boards
Alpine/race riders spend their time tearing down groomed slopes at break-neck speeds, burying their edges in the snow. They use their edges more then other riders, and use highly specialized equipment. - Alpine/race boards are long, narrow, stiff, and flashy.
- These boards are strictly for going one direction -- down.
- They're not for tricks or jumps.
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