A Renter’s Guide for Choosing Snowboards

Do you like floating through powder? Or cruise through groomed runs? The snowboard that you use will affect ride quality and performance.

Snowboard Types

The first thing you think about when choosing a board is the kind of riding you will do most of the time. Boards normally fit into certain categories that provide you with an idea of their intended use.

All mountain snowboards are ideal for riders who want versatility; this also has the design and features to handle different types of terrain. They provide you with enough control and stability to be aggressive on the slope. They also allow for some playfulness.

Freestyle boards are fun, if you plan to do plenty of tricks in and out of the park or resort. These snowboards are light, have a pop to them, and have the design to make it easy for you to land tricks in both directions or throw it around.

Feel and Flex

A camber and rocker are two different features that cater to certain types of riders. The former provides you with a lively and stable ride, with a responsiveness and pop on groomed runs, especially when you make a turn. If you are an experienced and speed-centered snowboarder, it is likely that you will choose a cambered board.

A rocker board is ideal for powder surfaces and when riding or jibbing rails. These boards are softer than their cambered counterparts and are often appealing to beginners.

A snowboard’s flex pattern affects your ride quality while on it. Stiff boards provide you with a quick reaction time and a powerful feel that delivers a pop hard off jumps. This also allows you to maintain control at speed. A softer board is easier to butter, manhandle and press, and is also less likely to punish you after a mistake. It is ideal for practicing new tricks or honing carving skills on groomers. However, it is less stable and prone to vibration when you ride fast.

Renting Equipment with American Ski Exchange

American Ski Exchange provides clients with only top-quality snowboards and skis during their trip. We are your go-to shop for snowboarding and skiing rentals. We offer some of the industry’s top brands, such as K2, Rossignol, Salomon, Blizzard and others.

Contact us to learn more about the packages we offer.