60 Snowboarding Tips For Beginners

The ultimate snowboarding beginners' guide: what to pack for a snowboarding trip, what to wear, what equipment to bring, your first steps, how to navigate, and which hotel to choose are all covered in this guide

You'll find 60 beginner snowboarding tips in our ultimate snowboarding beginners' guide.

We cover everything from what to pack for a ski trip, how to pick your outfit, how to select your equipment, your first steps on the slope, how to navigate, and the most important aspects of choosing your hotel. These tips will help you hit the slopes with confidence, no matter if you're a complete novice or just getting back into the sport after a few years. Keeping it short and to the point is our goal. You will find many small insights that will help you become a decent rider from the first week and ensure your vacation will be an unforgettable experience.

How to dress for a snowboard trip

Here are 14 snowboarding tips for beginners on how to dress up before hitting the slopes for the first time.

Dress in 3 layers.

If you want to stay comfortable in the cold weather, layer up! Start with a moisture-wicking base and add insulation for your middle layer. Protect yourself from winter winds by wearing an insulated snowboard jacket. For especially frigid temperatures below 15F (-10C), consider investing in very good middle layer as well - though it's generally best to stay within three layers if possible. The end of the season brings some sunshine and warmer temps, so feel free to shed one layer!

Layer your body with a comfortable thermal layer that wicks away moisture.

Try to avoid conventional cotton t-shirts! Thermal tees are an essential body layer for those who don't want to be drenched with sweat - they keep you cool and dry, providing maximum breathability.

You should bring two different midlayers to the ski resort.

Simple fleece is my go-to choice when it comes to mid-layering. Its unbeatable level of softness and comfort make it ideal for the ski resort, but why bring two? A thin fleece should be enough - unless temperatures reach 15F or below. If so, then you can rely on your solid layer as insulation!

How to choose snowboard pants - Four key factors to consider:

Comfort – You'll be doing squats all day, so it should be comfortable.
Waterproofness – When shopping around, you'll find waterproof ratings ranging from 5K-20K. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the better suited they are to handling wet conditions. A higher-grade waterproof fabric, such as Gore-Tex, will provide an even better defense against outdoor moisture.
Warmth – By wearing warm pants, you can avoid wearing body pants, which I personally dislike.
Pockets – another crucial factor. Make sure it is comfortable and can be closed.

Beginner snowboarders will need a minimum of 10000mm. For skiers, less than 10000mm is fine, but for snowboards, less than 10000mm is not acceptable since beginners spend so much time sitting on snow.

How to choose snowboard jacket

Best snowboard jackets are designed specifically for snowboarding and are different than ski jackets; they are usually longer and tend to have a looser, more relaxed fit.

As a beginner, I will stick only to insulated snowboard jackets. The budget version has 10,000mm of water resistance and 10,000g of breathability for temperatures as low as 15F or -10C. It should be sufficient to get started. Versions with more than 10000mm will be more expensive, and the best will have Gore-Tex material.

In addition to waterproofness and breathability, ski jackets should also have the following features:

Zippers should be on all pockets, internal pockets, and large and comfortable pockets.
How does it look? A snowboard jacket is one of the most important features in terms of looking good on the slopes. Your friends will easily recognize you on the slopes if you look unique.
Ventilation zippers.
Ensure that the buff fits comfortably around the neck.
If you go into powder, a longer jacket will protect you better from snow coming under it.
When the hood fits over helmets, it is very cool in windy weather.
The powder skirt - prevents snow from coming under your jacket

Never wear a hoodie as a midlayer.

It comes down to comfort. If you wear the hoodie underneath your ski jacket, it will crumple, or you will take the hood out, leaving you with two hoodies, a neck gaiter, and a helmet.

How to choose snowboard gloves?

My favorite gloves are double gloves.

What are the benefits of wearing double gloves? The base glove protects your fingers until the snow evaporates if a piece of snow gets in accidentally. Using double layers keeps your hands extremely warm, and if your gloves are made from Gore-Tex, any snow that gets in will evaporate quickly and won't freeze.

Burton's gloves (very affordable gloves) are my favorite. Base gloves are made of ultra-thin fleece, and warm layers are made of Gore-Tex.

Great article about best snowboard gloves

Why Gore-Tex gloves?

Gore-Tex is a high-quality, versatile fabric that is waterproof and breathable. Gore-tex is so different from other fabrics. In contrast to regular gloves, snow will evaporate in 30 minutes, unlike if it comes in contact with your fingers.

Why merino wool socks?

The best socks are made from merino wool. I have tried everything, but nothing compares to merino wool socks. This is the best way to keep your legs warm. I wash them in the hotel, and they're like new the next morning (merino wool dries quickly). Another option is to wear thin socks and then ski socks as a second layer - that is also an option, but it is less comfortable.

Gloves VS mittens

It is easier to fit two layers with mittens, and they are warmer. With more frequent removal, you will need another layer of protection. I'll break it down into three parts:

With regular bindings, you should definitely wear gloves while snowboarding. You must close the bindings with your fingers each time you run.
A step-on binding is great for snowboarding with mittens. There isn't much use for fingers
In terms of skiing, I think both are fine, but I don't like to hold the ski poles with mittens.

Wear a helmet to protect your head

Helmt is the number 1 part of your protective gear. It only takes one accident to make you regret not wearing a helmet. The most dangerous accident is a fall on your back and a ski or snowboard hitting your head from behind. Whether the fault lies with someone else will not matter.

Wear snowboard goggles to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, and snow.

Many snowboard beginners start out without goggles because you move with zero speed when you are learning. So when it's not snowing, and there is no sun, you can learn without goggles. But the moment it snows, sun or you start moving, you must put on goggles.

Besides protection, goggles can help improve visibility in a variety of conditions. They can also help reduce glare from the snow.

You don't want to leave your hotel without goggles and it starts snowing within a few hours.

What to wear under snowboard pants

Warmth and comfort are key when hitting the slopes!

The best way to achieve this is to buy ski pants that are warm and comfy (I don't like wearing underpants and my legs are never cold). Underpants aren't a big deal for most people, so it's my personal preference.

Ideally, thermal base layer pants are made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or wool, which are moisture-wicking and breathable. You can also wear leggings instead of thermal underwear, which are slightly thicker, less breathable, and less expensive.

What to wear under a snowboard helmet?

Wear the right helmet to ensure you're prepared for any winter weather conditions. A ski helmet is your best choice as it's designed to keep your head warm. It has an adjustable, breathable system so that you can stay comfortable no matter how briskly the temperature drops.

Never use a bike helmet, kitesurf helmet, or any other helmet

It also has a special connector for your goggles, as well as covering your ears. You won't need a hat either; all layers should be kept lightweight. Usually, people put a full buff or nothing under their helmets.

What to pack for a snowboard trip

Here is a list of all the absolutely essential items you need to pack for a snowboard trip

Snowboard
Snowboard bindings
Snowboard boots
Snowboard pants
Snowboard jacket
Snowboard gloves
Snowboard helmet
Snowboard goggles
Thermal shirts – base layer
Thermal socks
Underpants – base layer
Fleece – second layer
Snowboard Buff / Balaclava – nice to have
Lip balm – nice to have

What to consider before buying a ski pass?

Buying it online can save you time and money.
For example, let's say you want a seven-day ski pass if you're coming for a seven-day ski vacation. If you are a beginner skier, you will probably take a day off on your fourth or fifth day. Consider this and maybe buy fewer days, as ski passes are extremely expensive these days.
Those arriving mid-day may buy a half-day ski pass or buy it from people returning from the main lift.

Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen.

The sun on the slopes can be misleading, even though it's not Cancun or Palma de Mallorca. It is reflected by the white snow burning your face. Especially if your skin doesn't like direct sunlight, be careful.

Carry hand warmers.

Hand warmers are relatively cheap. It's nice to have 4 in each pocket for a whole day since they hold heat for 12 hours.

What to take with you on the slopes?

Bring only the essentials. Do not bring a backpack or extra scarf "in case of." Do not bring water; there are plenty of places to buy a bottle, finish it, and carry on. You should bring the following items besides what you wear:

In your hand pocket, keep your ski pass.
Keep your phone and headphones in the internal pocket of your jacket, your mid-layer, or a phone-designated pocket. Ensure that the pocket can be closed. Avoid putting your phone in an external pocket. The cost is the same as a whole ski vacation.
Avoid bringing your wallet, and put your credit card and some cash in an internal pocket that can be closed.
It is best to keep the paper map in an external pocket that is easy to reach.
Whenever you know you will be cold, take chemical warmers with you.
Lip balm that is small.
Small energy snack.

Don't carry a backpack.

You don't want a bulky backpack ruining your experience. It might be a good idea to rent a locker at the base to store extra layers, snacks, and other items. You don't need to carry water with you - go to a cafeteria or lodge when you need it.

Snowboarding gear - renting, buying, using

What is the best snowboarding gear to choose? What are the pros and cons of renting vs. buying a snowboard? Here are a few more beginner snowboarding tips about equipment:

First time snowboarding: what gear do you need?

If you are starting out, rent an all-mountain snowboard. Usually, the snowboard should be around your chin height (See table below. They will take care of you if you rent from a snowboard shop. Check out this guide if you're considering buying, but my advice is to rent for the first time.

Snowboarder height	Snowboarder weight	Snowboard Size
4'10'' (147cm)	110 - 120 lb (50 - 55 kg)	128 - 136
5' (152cm)	115 - 130 lb (52 - 59 kg)	133 - 141
5' 2'' (158cm)	125 - 135 lb (57 - 61 kg)	139 - 147
5' 4'' (163cm)	135 - 145 lb (61 - 66 kg)	144 - 152
5' 6'' (168cm)	140 - 155 lb (63 - 70 kg)	149 - 157
5' 8'' (173cm)	150 - 165 lb (68 - 75 kg)	154 - 162
5'10'' (178cm)	160 - 175 lb (72 - 79 kg)	159 - 167
6' (183cm)	170 - 185 lb (77 - 84 kg)	160+
6' 2'' (188cm)	180 - 195 lb (81 - 88 kg)	160+
6' 4'' (193cm)	190 - 205 lb (86 - 92 kg)	160+

Snowboards, snowboard bindings, and helmets can be rented.

You can also rent snowboard boots, but I recommend buying them since they are the most important piece of the equipment.

Not all items can be rented.

There are no rentals available for gloves, goggles, snowboard jackets, snowboard pants, socks, or first layers.

There may be some shops where you can rent pants, jackets, and goggles, but double-check it before arrival.

Invest in snowboard boots.

In snowboarding, boots are by far the most important piece of equipment. Yes, it's more important than a snowboard. The perfect snowboard rental boot is hard to find, but you can ride perfectly on a rental snowboard with comfortable boots. Your first purchase should be a pair of boots.

Here you can find a guide I created on how to choose snowboard boots and what are the best boots on the market.

Rent your equipment in advance.

Don't miss a minute of fun on the slopes; rent your ski equipment in advance and save time. Arrive early to pick up snowboarding gear without hassle, or reserve it online for convenience - just be aware that most stores close after 6pm! That way you'll experience nothing but great skiing with no delays.

What size snowboard boot do I need?

Shopping for the best snowboard boots is a challenge. The first step in making sure you purchase the right size and fit is measuring your foot length and width. Draw a tracing of each foot on the paper so you can find exactly what size fits best when comparing it against manufacturer sizing charts. Also, consider looking at models with adjustable liners or different stiffness ratings if more customization than just the standard sizes are needed - perfecting your riding experience starts with finding just the right boot!

How to mount snowboard bindings?

Mounting snowboard bindings is a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to do it carefully and correctly to ensure that your bindings are securely attached to your board and provide the support and control you need while riding.

There are four different connection types on the market:

4x4

2x4

Channel.

It is designed to give you space to move your position on the snowboard back and forward, depending on what you plan to do on the slopes today.

And to give you the flexibility to position your front and back leg with different angles depending on your riding style.

Beginners generally set up around -5 degrees on the back foot and +15 degrees or less on the front foot (usually it's a left foot). On your back foot (usually it's a right foot), we do not recommend going past -21 degrees because it puts a lot of pressure on your knees. There is, however, a lot of difference between what works for one person and what works for another.

Great video about it: 1:50 min

How to put on snowboard boots?

You will need to loosen all of the laces on the outer and liner lacing systems by pulling the tongue of the liner and shell forward.
Your foot should be seated all the way inside the boot.
Set your heel in the pocket of the boot by tapping it on the ground.
Before lacing up, make sure the liner is tucked into your shin.
Make sure the liner hugs your shin by tightening the inner laces. Depending on your lacing system, you will need to fasten your laces differently.
You can now lace up your outer shell. Boots should fit snugly but not so tight as to cut off circulation.
Stretch your ankles (as if doing a squat) and tighten the laces a bit more.

Or just watch 1:30 min video

How tight should snowboard boots be?

Snowboard boots should feel snug and comfortable on the heel, instep, and toebox. You should barely be able to touch the front edge with your toes. The heel should not move - this is the most important part.

How to snowboard for beginners - first snowboard day.

You should read, then watch videos, and then read again and watch the videos again.

Here is one important point: although we tend to use only videos because they are easier to understand. In my experience, people understand techniques better when they read rather than just watching someone.

And of course learn on bunny hill

How to carry the snowboard

You can drag the board on snow by holding one of the bindings.

Hold the board parallel to the ground with your hand between the bindings while not on the snow.

Why am I even writing this? The edge of your snowboard hurts your gloves when you walk with it, and it slides back and forth in your arm. Make sure you are aware of it and hold your board still.

Video: 2:20 min

Proper Snowboarding Stance

Mastering the perfect snowboard stance is essential for great control, balance, and efficient riding. To ensure a comfortable yet powerful move on your board, you can start by bending your knees slightly while keeping them aligned with your toes. Make sure that all parts of the upper body – shoulders and hips - are lined up together in one direction as well; then loosen up those arms to remain stress-free!

You should be able to stand like that without moving or falling on a flat surface.

How to glide with snowboard

After strapping in the front binding, you'll learn how to skate, which is to move around with the front foot (usually left foot) strapped in and push you along with the back foot (usually right foot). In addition to getting on a chairlift, you will use this skill on flat terrain.

Place your back foot on your snowboard's heel side, slightly behind your other foot, after securing your front foot in the binding.
Push yourself around with your back foot.
Avoid letting your free foot go past your back bindings, or you may split.
As you get comfortable moving around by pushing yourself with your back foot, bring your free foot onto the middle of your board and rest it against the back binding for extra stability.
Take a flat surface and practice straight gliding.
When you're ready, try gliding on a bunny slope with an easy runout.

1:40 min video

How to get on a chairlift and off the chairlift lift with a snowboard

Getting on the chairlift: you glide forward to the desired location. Only one leg is attached to the board when you ride a chairlift.

Glide yourself forward quickly after you get off the chairlift. You will have the most time to glide forward if you sit on the right edge of the lift.

You can read a great article about it here

Learn to stop.

Backstop (when you face looking downhill):

You'll need to put yourself 90 degrees to the slope and press your board's hill edge into the snow and lift your toes slightly to stop. Your heelside edge will stop you if you remain you knees bent and low as you place more pressure on it.

Front stop (when you face looking uphill):

You'll need to put yourself 90 degrees to the slope and press your board's toe edge into the snow and lift your heels slightly to stop. Your toe-side edge will stop you if you remain your knees bent and low as you place more pressure on it.

Practice stopping the board a few times so that you feel in control and can stop it when you want to.

2:55 min video

Learn heel-side traverse

Stand up on your board 90 degrees from the slope, on the uphill edge to avoid sliding down, and face looking down the slope.
When you find your balance point, your hips should be over the heel-side edge.
As if you were sitting in a chair, bend your knees. Your calves should feel the high back of your binding.
Let your front foot flatten a bit as you shift your weight toward it and point with your arm in the direction you move. Eventually, you'll start moving in the direction of your board's nose where your arm is pointing.
When you want to slow down, balance your weight between both feet and lean more over the edge. Slowing down and eventually stopping will be achieved by increasing the edge angle.
Now do exactly the same with the other leg.

Learn toe-side traverse

Stand up on an uphill edge so you don't slide down the slope in the stop position, and face looking up the slope.
Find the balance point by flexing your knees and distributing your weight evenly over the toe-side edge.
Allow your lead foot to flatten a bit as you shift your weight toward it and point your hand in the direction you want to move. In this step, you'll start moving toward the nose of the board.
To slow down, stand on the edge of your foot and lean forward more. By increasing the edge angle, you will slow down and eventually stop.
Repeat for the second leg.

Hell side and toe side traverse explained in 2:30 minutes:

Traverse Into a Turn

That was the easiest part. Most beginners get stuck when traversing into the turn because they are scared of the speed the board gains very quickly.

This is why you should start turning on a bunny slopes with a flat runout so that the terrain will naturally stop you if you run into trouble.

Start with a heel-side traverse - shifting your weight over your front foot as before.
Now flatten the board so you can go straight downhill (into the fall line, which is the most direct route). Always point your arm in the direction you are going.
Get into an athletic stance as you flatten the board while still keeping more weight on your front foot. Point your arm in the direction you want to go.
Once you're on a flat board and in the fall line, start moving onto the toe-side-side traverse. Point your arm in the direction you want to go.
Stop, roll on your back to the heel-side traverse and practice this turn many times.
Now repeat the turn with the same technique from toe-traverse to heel-traverse.
Flatten the board in the direction you want to go while your face points uphill, flatten the straight board downhill, put more pressure on your front foot, arm directing where you want to go, turn to back traverse, stop, repeat.

3:20 video

Maintain control by bending your knees.

For both beginner snowboarders and advanced snowboarders - never ride with straight legs on slopes.

Think ahead, not down at your snowboard.

Moving your eyes away from your ski or snowboard is scary at first, but it's the only way to gain confidence and balance.

How to select snowboard school (3)

Group snowboard lessons VS private snowboard instructors.

For those new to the sport of snowboarding, joining a group lesson is an ideal way to get started. Through numerous repetitions with easy movements and ample time for practice, you will quickly begin feeling confident on your board - something which can't be achieved as effectively in a shorter private lesson. For more advanced riders looking to perfect their technique or learn specific tricks, however then one-on-one instruction may suit them better. A good number of students for a group lesson is 4-6; avoid big groups.

Take lessons only from a certified snowboard instructor.

Don't get me wrong, sometimes taking snowboard lessons from an unprofessional instructor can be good, but sometimes it's a waste of time; it's just a gamble. The safest way to learn how to snowboard is to take lessons from a certified school.

Take time to practice your posture and balance before hitting the slopes.

Practice the postures at home by watching YouTube videos with snowboarding tips for beginners. It can help you boost your learning process on the slopes. But remember - YouTube will never replace a ski lesson. Taking snowboard lessons from snowboard schools is the fastest way to learn.

How to select a snowboard hotel (5)

Choose a hotel with saunas.

Depending on your budget, stay at hotels with great saunas if you have the means. The best thing you can do for yourself after a long skiing day is to relax in a sauna. The next day, you'll be more energetic and relaxed.

Skiing in Europe.

In Europe, especially in Austria, it is not unusual to see everyone naked in the sauna. Generally, I don't mind being with friends or just my partner, but going on a ski vacation with friends and mixed couples can be awkward. If you are traveling with mixed couples, choose Italy or France.

How to pick a hotel with good sauna facilities

Don't just use the 'sauna' filter on Booking or Expedia sites. Most hotels have small saunas without any other amenities nearby. The most effective way to filter out hotels with substandard sauna facilities is for those with many pictures of the place. Also, don't confuse spas with saunas. The spa is a place where you can get spa treatments for a fee.

Choose hotels near the lift.

When you are looking for a hotel, choose one that is close to the lift. Walking with snowboard boots is fine compared to ski boots, but if you can be close to the lift, I am happy for you. Ideally, I would like my hotels to be within 0.5 miles or 1 km of the lift.

Ski in ski out hotels

The ski in ski out concept is amazing - no walking to and from the lifts. Bypass your hotel and use the nice clean toilets. Ski-in ski-out hotels have the advantage of allowing you to ride back to the hotel if you forget something, such as your goggles, or want to change your midlayer. Generally, it is more isolated from the city's nightlife. So choose what you like more.

What to eat and when (4)

Pick a hotel with breakfast.

Before hitting the slopes, you should eat a good breakfast. Before wearing your ski gear, you should go to the bathroom comfortably after breakfast.

Eat light lunch

Don't eat heavy lunches. Having a heavy lunch will make you sleepy and tired. Meat soup and a small sandwich are my favorite meals. Hold on until dinner. Don't ruin your riding experience with an overfull stomach by eating in the afternoon; we all love food, but wait until the evening to eat

Make sure you bring energy snacks and nuts with you.

They can boost your energy when you're tired. Snowboard gear usually has plenty of pockets for storing small snacks.

Drink water.

Keep your body hydrated. The recommended amount of water per day is 3 to 4 glasses. More than that, and you'll have to use the restroom so frequently.

Navigation in the ski resort and safety. (10)

Always use a paper map when on the slope.

While there are many apps available for navigating ski resorts, paper ski maps remain the most convenient and easiest option. It can fall into the snow. It can be ripped and a new one can be brought tomorrow. You can use it while wearing gloves on a chairlift, and it can be taken out of your pocket.

I wrote an article about the top 60 ski resorts in the US, you can download all the maps with high quality from there

Knowing when the lifts will be done is important.

Once you have completed your first training days and explored the resort, plan your return. Plan your return with at least 15-30 minutes spare before the lifts close. If you don't want to have to walk a few miles on the mountain, get to the lifts on time.

Keep an eye out for changes in terrain and other skiers.

Keep in mind that what lies behind you is beyond your control, but what lies ahead is under your control. Along with being responsible for yourself, you also have a responsibility to those ahead of you. If you don't feel 100% in control, slow down.

The first time you ride a chairlift

If you take the right edge of the lift, you will have the longest time getting off. Be sure to follow the instructions for loading and unloading.

Stay calm when you fall and move to the side of the slope.

Move to the side of the slope if you fall, it hurts, and you don't feel like continuing. In this way, you will avoid being hit by other skiers or snowboarders.

Know the ski resort's emergency procedures

In case of an injury or other emergency, know who to contact.

When it snows hard downhill, it usually storms up top.

If you are a beginner, avoid storms. It can be extremely dangerous.

Decide what time and place you'll meet with your partner and friends.

Cellular networks are sometimes unavailable on the hill, or people leave their phones at the hotel or their batteries die. Choosing a meeting point and time is important for many reasons, since we often lose track of each other.

When skiing off-piste or in the backcountry

Take the necessary precautions and be aware of the risks, such as carrying the necessary safety equipment and understanding how to use it. Never go off-piste alone. Digging yourself out of deep snow can take all day. It is very dangerous to go off-piste or into the backcountry alone.

Snowboard within your limits.

Young people feel like nothing can stop them. I remember this feeling well. Be aware of your limits and ski within them rather than trying to compete with someone much better than you. The moment you feel your body or brain becoming alarmed, slow down. One more slope or turn won't make much difference. An injury can ruin your vacation or your life.

Train your muscles two to three weeks in advance

It could be the subject of a whole article, but I'll summarize it here. After a day or two on the slopes, first-timers will not be able to get out of bed for breakfast. It will make a huge difference if you train a little before you come. Read this or just squat 🙂 a lot.