10 Essential Snowboard Apparel Items

Snowboarding is a very exciting, invigorating and fun sport! To thoroughly enjoy your snowboarding experience, you will need proper apparel to protect your body from the snow, cold temperatures and other potential physical dangers. There are certain essential snowboard apparel items that any new or experienced snowboarder should invest in.

1 – Snowboarding jackets come in many brands and styles with various features. There are insulated and non-insulated jackets to accommodate individual warmth and comfort levels. Should you opt to layer various apparel pieces, you may want to consider a non-insulated jacket. Whichever jacket you choose, you should ensure that the material is waterproof, breathable, and provides several lined pockets.

2 – Snowboarding boots are available in many styles, however the most important thing to consider is a comfortable fit which will require you to visit stores to actually try on and walk in several brands and styles. Overall, the sole should provide a good grip, the weight of the boot should be as light as you are comfortable in and will allow for greater maneuverability, and the boot should include a lightweight liner.

3 –Good snowboarding socks will help to prevent blisters by keeping moisture away from your skin. There should be a good amount of cushioning in the heel area and the socks should be made of wool or a synthetic material such as microfleece. Do not wear 100% cotton socks as they tend to absorb moisture which will increase your chance of developing painful blisters.

4 – Snowboarding gloves should keep your hands warm yet allow for ease of movement. Mittens tend to keep hands warmer, but decrease the amount of finger dexterity you will need. A good glove should be long enough to cover the cuff of your jacket or be worn under the jacket cuff to prevent snow from entering in between the jacket and the glove. A couple of other important features to look for in selecting your gloves are a reinforced palm and removable lining.

5 – Snowboarding pants should be made of a warm, waterproof material and have zippered pockets in which you can carry important items without fear of losing them. Elasticized ankles will help in making sure the pants stay in place over your boots.

6 – A good snowboarding helmet is an essential part of your snowboard apparel and will protect your head from injury, preventing a fun filled excursion from turning into a catastrophe. Your helmet should allow for adjustable ventilation to accommodate different temperatures and comfort levels. Although the primary function of your helmet should be protection, many helmets are now available with convenient features to enhance your snowboarding experience such as a built in audio system.

7 – Goggles will protect your eyes from wind and sun and allow for greater visibility as you enjoy the slopes. The goggles should seal well against your face and fit well you’re your helmet on. Prescription eyeglass inserts are available with some brands, yet most will fit comfortably over your regular eyeglasses.

8 –A neck gaiter is worn under your helmet to provide additional warmth for your face and neck. Your gaiter should be made of lightweight and windproof material with an adjustable draw cord to maximize the fit and comfort.

9 – Typical sweatshirts and hoodies are an important layer of your snowboard apparel. Although just about any sweatshirt will be just fine, a blended material that is not too heavy weight will allow for more freedom of movement and less trapped moisture.

10 – Bindings will keep your feet, boots and snowboard firmly attached together. Buying your boots and bindings together or bringing your boots with you to select your bindings will ensure a proper fit. There are two primary types of bindings – step in and strap on. Step in bindings tend to require less adjustment, however the most important thing is that the bindings attach securely and comfortably to your boots and snowboard.