How Big should a Snowboard be?

How big should my snowboard be?

• I'm thinking about buying a snowboard I am 120 pounds and 5'7" and I'm also a freerider Please I ve been looking for a while.

• Answer:

  I've been snowboarding for 13 years and am a resident of a world class resort. I can definitely tell you the pros and cons. By your weight isn't exactly the best answer as boards come with different stiffness of cores, some softer, some stiffer than others. On average for a new rider, you want it around your chin level. A shorter board then that is great for park if you are in rotation tricks as it is much easier to spin. Soft core boards are great for buttering in the snow and on rails as well. If you're looking for powder, then a larger board will give you more base and make it easier to ride the deep pow, with less work needed on your legs. A larger, stiffer board is also good for hitting those bigger jumps so your tail can absorb some of that impact. Stance is also important, closer to the tail is best for adding weight near the rear so you don't burry that nose in powder. Like to or want to ride switch? Go with an even stance, and start trying the duck footed method (15 degrees or so out each way). This is great for park riding cause then your switch stance is identical (as long as your board is true twin). Also, rental boards I think are a bad misrepresentation as they are heavily abused and not as well taken care of. If you get a chance, hit up a demo tent on the days companies are offering use of their demo boards. They are typically new, well maintained and waxed. Best of all, it's free!