How to Choose the Right Snowboard For a Woman

So you are a woman and are looking for a great new snowboard for yourself. Before you go ahead and put your money down on one, it is essential that you acquaint yourself with certain key factors that will help you choose the right snowboard for maximum comfort and fun. A common mistake women make when buying snowboards is going by colors and girly themes. Of course you would want something that matches your personal style, but what you must really focus on are the material and design elements of your snowboard.

What to look for in a snowboard
What you must do first is determine the kind of rider you are. If you are into speed racing and carving turns then what you would need is a freecarve board. If spins and half-pipes are your style, then a freestyle board is the one for you, while an all-mountain or free-ride board would be ideal if you are a beginner. Next, do your research before buying. Snowboard shops will have brochures from manufacturers well in advance, so bring them home and pick out the ones you fancy. Now comes the most important part - comparing the different types of snowboards, and the best way to get unbiased information (which you will not get from brochures), is by checking out the annual buyers' guides published by snowboarding magazines like Snowboarder or Transworld Snowboarding.

Where to buy and how much to spend
Avoid the lure of cheaper boards and invest in a good quality snowboard instead. Not only will you get the most out of it, you will also be able to sell it fast and for more. A decent quality snowboard should cost you around $500. Some of the most popular brands in women's snowboards are Burton, atomic, K2, Salomon, Forum, Never Summer, Ride and Rossignol. Resort shops often have demos, and their proximity to the slopes is often considered an advantage.

How to make the right choice
There are different thoughts in this area. Some people will tell you that it does not matter whether you are a man or a woman, a snowboard is a snowboard. However, there are certain distinct differences between snowboards made for men and those designed specifically for women. Besides the difference in the bindings, women's snowboards are shorter and come with deeper cuts on the sides, which make them easier to handle. Designers also keep in mind that men are generally taller and hence make their snowboards longer, though that is exactly what you will need if you plan to tackle high speeds. On the other hand, a shorter board will give you more room to maneuver, which is perfect for those spins and tricks. A woman's snowboard is also lighter than a man's snowboard, which will make it easier for you to carry.