5 Different Types Of Snowboards – Pick The BEST One For You
It’s October, which means it’s time to start thinking about snowboarding! But with so many different types of snowboards available on the market, it can be difficult to decide which snowboarding styles are right for you.
In this blog post, we will discuss the five different types of snowboards, including their benefits and their limitations. We hope this information will help you choose the perfect board for your next outdoor adventure.
What are the 4 Different Types of Snowboards?
Wait a second 4? I thought there were 5. Well, some say there are 4, and others say there are 5. To me, there are 5, and here they are:
- All Mountain Snowboard
- Freestyle Snowboard
- Freeride Snowboard
- Powder Snowboard
- Splitboards
What Snowboard is Best for Me?
Finding the right board for you depends on 4 main things:
- Your ability (beginner-advanced)
- The type of riding you want to do (all mountain, freestyle etc.)
- Finding the right width (based on your boot size)
- Finding the right length (based on your height and weight)
A Closer Look at the Different Types of Snowboards
1. All Mountain Snowboard
Of all the different types of snowboards, this is the most popular type. An all-mountain snowboard is designed for all kinds of terrain and snow conditions.
They may have a directional camber profile (intended for riding in primarily one direction,) or twin tip (for riding switch.) They are also built with a stiffer flex, which gives them better edge hold and stability (particularly at high speeds.)
All mountain snowboards are a great option for riders who want one board that can do it all. From carving turns on groomers to hitting the powder, snowboard racing, or riding in the park.
2. Freestyle Snowboard
A freestyle (or park) snowboard is a type of snowboard that is specifically designed for performing tricks and maneuvers aka (freestyle snowboarding).
They are typically shorter in length and feature a true twin (or asymmetrical) shape, which means that they will perform exactly the same going both forwards and backwards (aka riding switch.)
Many mountain freestyle boards also feature additional reinforcement around the bindings, making them more resistant to breakage during hard landings. For riders who enjoy riding in a terrain park and doing tricks, a freestyle board is one of the best snowboard types.
3. Freeride Snowboard
Freeride boards are designed for riders who like to spend their time off the groomed trails (away from the crowds,) and enjoy riding in all types of terrain.
These snowboards are generally ridden longer and have a stiffer flex than a freestyle snowboard. They also often have a directional shape (and hybrid camber), which makes them better suited for riding in one direction.
Freeriding is one of the most popular types of snowboarding, as it allows riders to explore the entire mountain (and find new challenges) every time they hit the slopes. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder or sessioning a steep chute, a freeride board is an ideal choice for all-mountain exploration.
4. Powder Snowboard
A powder snowboard is a type of snowboard that is designed for riding in deep, fresh snow (think champagne powder.) Out of all the different types of snowboards, this isn’t a board that you would want to take out on groomed trails.
They typically have a wider nose that tapers into a narrower tail than other types of boards, which helps them float on top of the snow.
In addition, powder snowboards often have a rockered profile, which means that the nose and tail are raised off the ground. This allows the board to glide over powder more easily.
5. Splitboards
A splitboard is a type of snowboard that can be split in half lengthwise, making it easier to transport uphill in the snowy terrain.
The splitboard was invented in the early 1990s as a way to allow backcountry riders to easily access fresh powder. When split in half, the splitboard can be used like a pair of skis, which makes it much easier to travel uphill.
The splitboard is then reassembled at the top of the hill, and the rider can enjoy the ride down.
Splitboarding is for those who seek to explore the backcountry (and is typically not for beginners.) Knowledge of avalanche safety, the weather, terrain and snow conditions is an absolute must when heading out on a splitboard adventure.
In Conclusion
If you’re new to snowboarding, it’s important to know the different types of snowboards available so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
In this blog post, we’ve outlined the five different types of snowboards, as well as their key features and benefits. We also now know that there are different types of snowboarders as well.
Armed with this information, you should be able to find the perfect board for your needs. Check out my article on the best snowboard bags if you’re curious about which type would be best for you as well.
FAQ’s
What are the 3 styles of snowboarding?
1. All mountain- riding in a wide range of conditions.
2. Park/freestyle- hanging out in a terrain park and doing tricks.
3. Powder/Freeride- riding in deep snow and on ungroomed terrain.
What type of snowboard is easiest to ride?
All mountain boards are the easiest to ride which makes them the most popular boards on the slopes. They are great for beginners and those trying to figure out what type of terrain they like.
What are the different types of snowboard shapes?
1. True Twin- completely symmetrical.
2. Directional Twin- similar to true, but has either a setback stance or a slightly longer nose than tail.
3. Directional- optimal going in one direction
4. Tapered Directional- often everything about the nose and tail is different.
What is the most popular type of snowboard?
An all-mountain snowboard because of their versatility, and ability to perform on all kinds of terrain. For this reason, they are great for beginners to figure out their riding style.
What’s an aggressive snowboard?
An aggressive snowboard is one that is built to be ridden aggressively (think fast and hard.) They are typically stiffer, longer, and have good edge hold. These boards are built for advanced riders.
How do you know if you’re goofy or regular snowboard?
Goofy footed means that your right foot is in the front, and your left foot is in the back. Regular footed means that your left is in the front, and right is in the back. One will feel more natural.
Is it difficult to snowboard?
Many people find that learning how to snowboard can be difficult. The key is to take things slowly and practice regularly. It’s also important to be prepared for falls. Learning takes patience.
How much should I spend on my first snowboard?
Expect to spend no less than $250 on your first snowboard. Keep in mind that you will also need to purchase snowboard boots, bindings and a helmet as well (bringing the total closer to $800 or $900.)
