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What Is The Best Beginner Snowboard?

4 December 2023

What Is The Best Beginner Snowboard?

In the exciting world of snowboarding and skiing, choosing the perfect board for you serves as your first step towards a big adventure and starting your adult snowboarding lessons. Here at The Snow Centre, we're here to guide you through the snowy terrain, ensuring you discover the ideal beginner snowboard tailored to your preferences. So, take a moment to relax and join us whilst we delve into the world of snowboarding and provide some tips and tricks on the best beginner snowboards.

Does size matter? What size snowboard do I need?

So, first things first, before you start browsing through your potential new snowboard, you need to figure out the right size for you. In order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride, it is super important to choose the right snowboard size. The size you need is dependent on your height, weight, and riding style.

Here’s some quick tips for finding the right size for you:


Height - Stand your snowboard upright. The top of the board should reach somewhere between your chin and nose. This range ensures the board is manageable while still offering you stability. If it doesn’t reach this height, it’s not the one for you.


Weight: Your weight plays a significant role in how your board performs. Generally, a heavier individual will want a longer board for stability, while a lighter individual will prefer a shorter board for better manoeuvrability.


Riding style: Think about your riding style. If you're planning to focus on freestyle tricks and park riding, you might opt for a slightly shorter board. On the other hand, if you fancy sliding down a mountain, a slightly longer board may be more suitable.

Now we’ve been through those tips, let’s get into your snowboard options.

Why all-mountain snowboards are your best bet

So you may have heard about various types of snowboards, but for beginners, an "all mountain" snowboard is the golden nugget. These versatile boards are like the Swiss Army knife of snowboarding, designed to perform well in a variety of conditions. Whether you're cruising down well looked after slopes, tackling specific runs, or even venturing into the terrain park, an all-mountain board has got you covered. They're forgiving, stable, and ideal for perfecting your skills.

The best beginner snowboards

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let's explore some of the best beginner snowboards available in the UK market:

Burton Ripcord

Burton is a household name in snowboarding, known for quality and innovation. The Ripcord is a fantastic option for newcomers. It offers stability and control, making it easier to learn the ropes. With a forgiving flex, it's ideal for building confidence as you progress. Plus, it's versatile enough to handle different types of terrain.

Salomon Sight

Salomon's Sight snowboard is another excellent choice for beginners. With Salomon being a reputable brand within the snowboarding world, their Sight snowboard is designed with a flat profile. This is to provide a stable and forgiving ride. 

The Sight board is perfect for practicing your turns and building your snowboarding skills. You'll be cruising down the slopes in no time with this bad boy.

Nitro Team

The Team stands out as the perfect snowboard for beginners who are looking for a board that is capable of delivering exceptional performance year after year. This board, in particular, has frequently been hailed as a reliable, yet iconic, snowboard within the Nitro range. It’s one that will keep up with you as you become a more confident rider.

Rossignol Circuit

The Rossignol Circuit is designed with beginners in mind. It offers a soft and forgiving flex, making it easy to control and manoeuvre. This board excels on groomed runs and is an excellent choice for those just starting their snowboarding journey.

Arbor Foundation

For eco-conscious riders, the Arbor Foundation is a sustainable and beginner-friendly choice. It's made with a focus on sustainability, featuring a bamboo top sheet. The board itself offers stability and control, helping you progress comfortably on the slopes.

Top tips for buying your first snowboard

Now that you have some snowboard options in mind, here are a few additional tips to consider when making your first snowboard purchase:

Try before you buy: If possible, test out different boards at a rental shop or a dedicated sports shop. This in-person experience will help you find the one that feels just right.


Bindings and boots: Don't forget about bindings and boots! They're just as crucial as the board itself. Make sure they fit comfortably and securely.


Budget wisely: While it's tempting to go all-in on the most expensive gear, remember that you're just starting. Focus on getting quality equipment that matches your skill level.


Safety first: Don't skimp on safety gear like helmets and wrist guards. Your safety should always be a top priority.


Lessons are key: Consider taking lessons from a qualified instructor. They'll teach you the fundamentals and help you progress faster. Here at The Snow Centre, we offer both kids and adult snowboarding lessons for every level of snowboarder. Our team of experts can walk you through your snowboarding journey, helping you with your first step onto the snow to mastering turns and stops.

Snowboarding at The Snow Centre

At The Snow Centre, we've got your back in learning how to snowboard. Whether you want to ride solo with an instructor in a private snowboard lesson, shred the slopes with your friends and family with a lift pass, or join one of our group sessions, we've got something for everyone.

Our snowsports activities are perfect for those preparing for a mountain adventure or anyone just looking for some snowboarding fun right here in the UK.

So, why wait? Whether you're chasing your first downhill adventure or aiming to up your snowboarding game, The Snow Centre is the place to be!

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