Dressing For The Snow: Choosing The Perfect Basics
Navigating the cold requires more than just enthusiasm - it demands the right wardrobe. In this guide we delve into the essentials of dressing for the snow and how to choose what is the perfect style for you.
Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right jacket
 
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There are two main types of snowboard jackets: insulated and uninsulated (shell). Each type offers a variety of fits and features to accommodate different snowboarding styles and weather conditions.
Insulated vs. Shell Jackets: Insulated jackets are a popular choice for their immediate warmth and comfort in cold, wintry conditions. The level of insulation varies, with lightweight, low-bulk jackets suitable for everyday snowboarding and thicker, down-filled jackets ideal for very cold climates. Shell jackets, which are uninsulated, are favored for spring riding or backcountry exploration due to their lightweight design and superior waterproof and breathable properties.
Waterproofing and Breathability: When selecting a snowboard jacket, it's essential to consider its waterproof and breathable qualities. Different jackets offer varying levels of these features, which allow heat and moisture to escape from inside while preventing water and snow from entering. Check the jacket's tag for its waterproof and breathability ratings. Entry-level jackets typically start at 5k/5k, while high-end options like Gore-Tex can reach around 20k/20k.
Key Features: Most snowboard jackets include basic features designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. Underarm vents are crucial for quick cooling, and a powder skirt—a waterproof fabric flap around the waist—prevents snow from entering the jacket when adjusting bindings or during falls. |
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Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right pants
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Snowboard pants come in four main types – insulated, un-insulated, shell, and bib/overalls. Insulated pants typically incorporate lightweight, low-profile synthetic insulation to provide added warmth without bulkiness, as the legs require less insulation compared to the torso, and many riders wear a thermal base layer underneath. Pants without insulation often feature a liner for enhanced comfort, while shell pants utilize technical 3L fabrics that eliminate the need for a liner and offer superior breathability. Bib or overall style pants are both stylish and practical, extending coverage beyond the waistline, making them suitable for wearing with a jacket in winter and without in warmer spring conditions.
Similar to selecting snowboarding jackets, key features to consider when choosing snowboard pants include mesh-backed venting in the inner thigh/knee area for efficient heat and moisture dissipation, and elasticated ankle gaiters that stretch over the boot to prevent snow infiltration. |
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Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right helmet
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Helmets have become an essential gear for both snowboarders and skiers, owing to continuous safety advancements, enhanced comfort, and stylish designs. Presently, approximately 80% of snow enthusiasts, regardless of skill level, opt to wear helmets on the slopes. Moreover, it's mandatory for children participating in ski and snowboard lessons to don helmets. Here's a brief guide on selecting the right helmet:
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Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right gloves
Nothing ruins a day on the slopes faster than chilly hands, so it's crucial to invest in a reliable, snowboard-specific glove. A quality glove or mitten should offer warmth, waterproofing, breathability, and, most importantly, durability, as snowboarding can be tough on gloves. Many gloves and mittens feature a nylon/polyester outer fabric, a durable PU palm with a waterproof and breathable membrane, low-profile synthetic insulation, and a cozy fleece lining. However, waterproof leather is gaining popularity as an alternative for premium products.
Choosing between gloves and mittens comes down to personal preference and the climate you'll be riding in. Some riders prefer gloves for their enhanced dexterity, especially if they include touchscreen technology for smartphone use without exposing hands to the cold. In sub-zero temperatures, mittens are often preferred for their superior warmth and snug feel. Additional features to consider include a thumb panel for nose and goggle wiping, easy-to-adjust cuff closures, an ergonomic pre-curved fit, and compatibility with hand warmers.
Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right goggles
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Quality snow goggles play a crucial role in shielding your eyes from cold, snow, wind, and sunlight, while also enhancing your ability to discern the contours of the snow. Enhanced visibility translates to better performance on the slopes, thereby boosting your confidence and skill level. Goggle manufacturers offer a variety of optical solutions, ranging from basic to premium, featuring anti-fog and UV protection in modern designs. When selecting goggles, prioritize fit: they should sit snugly on your face without causing any discomfort, providing a wide, unobstructed field of view. If you wear a helmet, it's wise to bring it along to ensure compatibility.
Although most goggles come equipped with a versatile lens suitable for various conditions, it's worth considering investing in additional lenses to adapt to changing weather conditions. A darker or mirrored lens is ideal for sunny days, while a lighter, transparent lens enhances visibility in snowy or low-light conditions. Each brand offers its own lens interchange system, so it's essential to test for ease and speed of lens swapping before making a purchase. |
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Snowboarding Basics: Choosing the right boots
Arguably the most vital gear for snowboarding, a properly fitting pair of snowboard boots is crucial for an enjoyable experience on the slopes. Schedule a session with a certified snowboard boot fitter to ensure a precise fit. They'll assist in finding the right fit and flex while ensuring compatibility with your bindings. Snowboard boots must withstand months of exposure to snow, ice, rocks, and binding straps, so it's essential to research thoroughly and, if possible, try before purchasing. Here are key aspects to consider when selecting your ideal snowboard boots.
Flex: The responsiveness of snowboard boots, known as flex, varies among brands. Beginners and freestyle riders often prefer softer flex boots, while advanced all-mountain snowboarders lean towards stiffer ones. Boot flex can also depend on ankle flexibility and riding style. Discuss with a boot fitter to determine the appropriate flex for your skill level and riding style.
Fit: Snowboard boots should fit snugly, akin to a sock. A properly fitted boot ensures smooth, responsive turns and reduces the risk of blisters and cramping. Ankles and heels should be securely held in place on the inner sole without any heel lift, which could hinder toeside turns. Remember that boots can be made larger but not smaller.
Lacing: Three primary lacing systems exist – traditional, quick-pull, and Boa. Traditional laces are simple but may loosen over time. Quick-pull systems offer swift adjustment and can be operated with gloves, yet they too may require periodic readjustment. The Boa System employs a metal cable and ratchet dial for precise, effortless tightening. However, it comes with added cost and lacks on-the-hill repairability.
Liner: Snowboard boots feature an outer shell and a soft, removable inner liner that aids in quicker drying. Liners conform to foot shape over time and can be heat molded for expedited break-in. Liners range from basic to premium, with higher-priced boots typically featuring better-quality liners.
Footbed: Stock footbeds vary in quality among brands. Consider replacing inadequate footbeds with drop-in or custom ones for enhanced comfort and support, which can alleviate issues like numbness and tingling.