€ Sign in
Contact
Hiking
Mountaineering
Climbing
Camping
Survival
Trail
Running
Road biking
Mountain biking
Canyoning
Alpine Skiing
Ski touring
Cross-country skiing
Snowboarding
Snow activities
Lifestyle
1. Understanding the different types of board
Before choosing a board, it's important to understand the different categories available and what they offer:
-
All-Mountain boards: Versatile, they are designed to perform well in all snow conditions and on all types of terrain. They are ideal for snowboarders who like to explore the whole mountain, from groomed runs to off-piste areas.
-
Freestyle boards: shorter and more maneuverable, these boards are optimized for tricks, jumps and rails in snowparks. They offer excellent reactivity and are generally chosen by riders who favor aerial maneuvers and creativity.
-
Freeride boards: Designed for deep snow and uneven terrain, these boards are often longer and have better lift. They are ideal for snowboarders who spend most of their time off the beaten track.
-
Carving boards: Specialized for tight turns and big, high-speed curves, these boards are often stiffer and have a longer curve radius. They are ideal for riders looking for precision and performance on groomed slopes.
2. Choosing according to style and ability
The choice of board must be adapted to the rider's riding style and skill level:
-
Rider weight and height: The length of the board should correspond to the weight and height of the snowboarder. A board that's too long will be difficult to maneuver, while one that's too short may not offer enough stability at high speeds or in powder.
-
Flexibility (Flex): A board's flex influences its responsiveness. A soft flex is preferable for freestyle, as it allows better maneuverability for tricks. A rigid flex offers more control at high speeds, and is therefore preferred for freeride.
-
Camber and Rocker: Camber and rocker describe the curvature of the board between the bindings. Classic camber is good for stability and precision on the slopes, while rocker offers better flotation in powder and is more forgiving of mistakes.
3. Innovative technologies and materials
Technological advances have a significant impact on snowboard performance:
-
Construction: Materials such as carbon or fiberglass improve lightness and responsiveness. Various wood cores can affect weight and stiffness, so choosing the right core for your riding style is crucial.
-
Coatings and finishes: Sole coatings influence glide speed on snow. A sintered sole is generally faster and more durable than an extruded sole, but requires more maintenance.
-
Shape and contour: Board shape (directional, twin, asymmetrical) affects handling and how the board performs in different conditions. The choice should be made according to the type of riding most frequently practised.
Choosing the right snowboard requires a thorough understanding of your specific needs and the technical characteristics of the different boards available. For the advanced rider, it's essential to take all these factors into account to maximize both pleasure and performance on the mountain. Whether you're looking to perfect your park technique, carve big curves on piste, or explore the vast expanses of powder, a well-chosen board is your best asset.
