Planning to Snowboard this Season? 6 Items to Pack

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If you’re going to be riding the slopes in the near future, it’s time to start getting your gear together and preparing for your expedition into the white peaks. Here are some necessities you will need to stay warm, safe, and well-equipped on any snowboarding trip.

Warm Clothes

No matter how warm your hotel room is, the mountain will be cold. If you’re going to be riding, you will want to bring a set of warm clothes or winter jackets for women so that you can dress in layers when it’s cold and take them off when it’s warm. Your location will dictate what type of clothing you need for your trip. On trips that last multiple days and nights, it’s often useful to bring an extra set of clothes and light sleeping gear instead of everyday clothes.

Repair Kit

If you have a gear-related accident, a good repair kit can make all the difference in your day. If you’ve got a board with a dinged-up edge, your binding breaks, or your pole snaps, you should be able to fix it yourself rather than wait for help. While you can find cheap basic repair kits at gas stations and hardware stores, they are also available in more specialized versions that include all the specialized tools and supplies that a snowboarder needs. A repair kit should ideally include a snowboard binding screwdriver, pliers for adjusting bindings, and high-temperature glue for mounting skins or waxless base plates, among other tools.

Riding Gear

You’re not going to get very far if your boot buckles on your first time out. If you’re new at snowboarding, it’s also a good idea to bring something that will give you support while learning the basics of riding. While you may want to buy the latest boot model from the store, you should practice first to ensure that your boots are comfortable and supportive. It is also a good idea to bring poles along with you in case you need to make a quick escape from the mountainside. Wrist guards and elbow pads may also be good for a beginner.

Board

Another no-brainer item to bring on your trip is a snowboard. After all, you can’t snowboard if you don’t have a board. While you don’t need an expensive board or a fancy brand name, it’s a good idea to bring a board that’s in good shape and that you can do all your tricks on. It’s also a good idea to bring a snowboard bag for your board.

Protective Helmet

While on an adventure, you need all the protection you can get, and a helmet is one of the items you shouldn’t miss on your snowboarding trip. A helmet will protect your head from a fall and keep the snow from getting in through the cracks. It can also help protect you from wind and debris. While some helmets offer bells, whistles, and other features, a basic helmet is usually all you need to ride safely. In addition to a helmet, you should consider bringing goggles for your face, which will help you keep your eyes protected from the snow. A good pair of goggles will also make a big difference in the way you see the mountain. It may not be a bad idea to bring a second helmet if you’re riding with people who are more tentative than yourself.

Waterproof Jacket or Pants

If you’re going to be snowboarding, chances are pretty good that you’ll be in the water at least once. A pair of waterproof pants or boots can come in handy when you start taking spills into the snow and ice. The good thing about waterproof pants is that they’re also warm, helping to keep you alive in adverse conditions.

Snowboarding is one of the best ways to get the most out of the winter. Whether riding in the park or hitting the sloppy mountains, being prepared is of the essence. While this list is a good starting point for all riders, no matter your skill level, you should do some research and bring what’s most appropriate for your experience level. As always, check your local laws and equipment regulations, especially if riding on a mountain requiring safety certification.