The pistes can be quite intimidating for a beginner snowboarder.
There is a lot to think about, from the terminology, techniques and how theSnowboarding equipmentworks.
But that is when you actually get on the mountain, what about everything leading up to this moment?
Such as theSnowboard clothingyou need, the resort to choose and what to expect.
In this post we are going to give you some insight in to snowboarding for beginners.
Get Prepared
Snowboarding is all about enjoying yourself.
So how do you do this?
Therefore, you should prepare your body to make it a bit easier.
The less fit you are, the more difficult you will find it.
Another thing that will help, is vinyasa yoga.
This incorporates core strength in slow controlled movements, while improving your flexibility.
A few sessions at your nearest indoor snow centre or dry slope will be invaluable.
But, you will also develop some basic skills for when you are sliding down a real mountain.
But, things that you will want to buy are the ones that keep you warm and protected.
Clothing
You will need a decentSnowboard jacket, trousers, socks, thermal undies and gloves.
We advise that you choose outerwear that allows you layer up and down.
This is because the temperatures in the mountains fluctuate a lot.
Also, as a beginner snowboarder, you will be getting hot and sweaty.
Having layers means that you’re free to take them off and add them to suit the conditions.
Check out ourSnowboard Clothingrange to get some great outfits that do the job, but also look awesome.
As a beginner snowboarder, you will spend a lot of time with your hands in the snow.
So, we recommend that youbuy some decent gloves.
Cheap ski gloves get soaking wet very quickly, as they are not made from technical materials.
you might rent helmets in ski resorts and in indoor snow centres.
But after a couple of sessions, you may want tobuy your own helmet.
Protecting your eyes is super important whensnowboarding.
On a sunny day, the glare from the white snow can damage your eyes.
Therefore, it’s crucial that you get a decent pair of goggles or sunglasses.
You dont have to spend silly money on goggles, but you do get what you pay for.
Check out ourguide to buying gogglesfor all the information.
Snowboarding is a sport where you build up the equipment over time.
So dont panic buy everything for your first holiday.
you might rent boards and boots when you get to the resort.
You need a resort with a good mix of green and blue runs to get your legs dialled in.
Therefore, you will probably want to go to a resort with a good apres scene.
This is a whole new blog post in itself, but in a nutshell they both have their advantages.
Self catered properties give you lots of freedom.
you’ve got the option to eat at different restaurants every night and at whatever time you like.
This is a great option if your group is pretty spontaneous or you dont mind cooking.
However, catered chalets make life very easy for you.
This is because you are looked after by chalet hosts that cook and clean for you.
They are also a wealth of knowledge and can give you loads of advice during your stay.
Lessons On Holiday
We recommend that you get at least a couple of lessons on your first snowboarding holiday.
Often, the smaller independent snowboard schools are better than the big national ski schools.
Some great examples of snowboard schools are REAL Snowboarding and Gypsy Snowboarding in Morzine.
This is just a short overview of snowboarding for beginners.
But, using this information will make your first time easier, fun and more rewarding.
Your first couple of days on asnowboardcan be frustrating.
But, everyone has to start somewhere.
Once you start progressing, the feeling of freedom you get is epic.
And that doesnt take in to account the all the other stories that are made in the mountains.
At S2AS we have everything a beginner snowboarder needs.
Check out oursnowboard products onlineor pop in to ourSnowboard Shopsee it for yourself.
