Snowboarding is one of those hobbies that requires a lot of gear. It’s not just the board, boots and bindings – up in the mountains, the right accessories can make all the difference between a good experience and a bad experience on the snow. If you’re planning on hitting the slopes, here are some of the essential items you’re going to want to bring with you to ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons. Of course, don’t overlook upgrading yoru board to the best freestyle snowboards for the most fun experience possible.
1. Goggles
Whilst it is possible to snowboard wearing sunglasses unless they’re specifically designed for the purpose they’ll be far from ideal, so you should focus on best snowboard goggles. They are a much better option as they not only protect your eyes from wind, snow flurries and UV rays, they also make a huge difference to your vision, giving you superior clarity and contrast in the snow. This, in turn, helps you to be a more skillful snowboarder.
2. Helmet
This one is a no-brainer. It used to be rare to see skiers or snowboarders wearing helmets, but thankfully these days the products have improved, and people are more safety conscious. However good you are on the slopes there’s always a risk of injury, and although they don’t offer complete protection, investing in a good quality helmet is an important way to help keep yourself safe. As a bonus, they’re also very effective at keeping your head warm!
3. Jacket and pants
It’s cold out in the mountains, so one of the things you’ll need is a waterproof, breathable jacket. It’s best to get one that is specifically designed for snowboarding, as these come with cool extra features like a powder skirt – which prevents snow from getting inside – and a pocket in your sleeve for your lift pass. You can opt for a fully insulated jacket or a shell jacket that helps with temperature regulation (be sure to layer up underneath). Of course, you’ll also need waterproof pants to go with your jacket, and ensure your legs stay dry as you carve up the slopes.
4. Gloves or mittens
Keeping your hands warm and dry is vital for a comfortable snowboarding experience, so gloves or mittens are an absolute necessity. The style you choose is up to you – mittens tend to be warmer than gloves, whereas gloves give you more dexterity. These days you can also get smart gloves that allow you to use your smartphone without taking them off – making snapping those epic snowboarding pictures much easier!
5. Socks
Cold feet are going to make for a miserable day on the slopes, therefore investing in proper ski or snowboarding socks is a great idea. They don’t have to be thick –thinner styles are more breathable – but look for some with cushioning and support to ensure your feet are comfortable in your boots all day.
There are plenty of accessories that can make your snowboarding experience even more enjoyable – such as buffs, hats, Go-Pros and of course sunscreen – but these five are a fantastic place to start!
