Ready to go shred it up on the slopes? If you’re a beginning snowboarder or if it’s been a while since you last snowboarded, we’ve compiled a list of the essentials—everything you’ll need to take in order to stay safe, feel comfortable, and have fun snowboarding this season!
Here’s what you will need to pack for a snowboarding trip, but be sure to read on for more tips and tricks.
Must haves:
- Snow socks (1-3)
- Base layer tops and bottom (1-3)
- Balaclava (1-2)
- Mid layers
- Snow pants/bibs
- Snow jacket/shell
- Gloves/mittens
- Helmet
- Goggles
- Boots
- Snowboard
- Bindings
- Season pass or lift tickets
- Cell phone tether for the lift
Nice to haves:
- Protective gear
- Hydration pack/backpack
- Video camera
- Electrolytes
- Chapstick
- Sunscreen
- Tissues
- Snacks
- Activity watch
- Boot dryers
- Multitool
Essential Items for Snowboarding
Going snowboarding for the first time? Make sure you bring these essential items with you!
Base Layers (Thermals) for Snowboarding (1-3 Pairs)
Also known as long underwear, many base layer options are scientifically engineered to wick sweat away from your skin so you stay dry, warm, and stoked as long as you’re out boarding. You’ll want both base layer pants and a shirt and, depending on your preference or the weather you’ll be riding in, you can choose between light, mid, and heavier weight options.
Snowboard Socks (1-3 Pairs)
Most snowboard boots are well-insulated, but you still need to consider your socks. Snowboard-specific socks are designed to be warm, durable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, comfortable (many have special cushioning features for added impact protection), and able to stay in place (hugging the lower legs to provide protection from your boots rubbing the skin uncomfortably). Your typical gym sock just can’t compare.
Mid Layers for Snowboarding
The mid layer will be a sweater, sweatshirt, flannel, fleece, or vest. You’ll want to purchase one that brags about being “high performance.” This means it’s designed to do things like regulate your temperature, wick away moisture, and dry quickly while being breathable and lightweight—and it should be easy to take off in a jiffy when you warm up.
For the lower body, the base layer with snow pants on top will usually be plenty. However, if you’re riding in extremely cold weather, consider throwing on a pair of stretchy performance pants. They should provide you with a little extra warmth and allow you to move freely.
Snowboard Jacket or Shell
As your outermost layer, you’ll want to select a snowboard jacket that provides protection from the elements. At the very least it should be windproof, waterproof, and breathable so it will allow excess sweat and warmth to escape. Higher-end jackets may also provide temperature control, special insulation features, and precisely placed pockets designed for snowboarders. Make sure the fit is just right—not too baggy and not too tight.
Snowboard Pants or Snowboard Bib Pants
Just like your snowboard jacket, you’ll want all the features listed above to keep your lower body protected from the snow and cold. Some boarders prefer pants and others enjoy wearing bibs. The benefits of wearing bibs include having one’s waistline freed up and extra protection from snow and cold around the belly and lower back areas.
Snowboard Hat
A hat or beanie is necessary to keep your noggin warm. You’ll want one that’s snug-fitting so as you cruise down the mountain chutes there’s no risk of losing it. Additionally, a well-fitted beanie allows your jacket hood or helmet to slip over it with no problem.
Snowboard Gloves and Mittens
Well-insulated and waterproof snowboard gloves or mittens are super important. They keep your hands warm, dry, and protected. Additionally, they can provide the necessary grip you need to effortlessly hold on to the tow rope. High-end gloves and mittens may also feature designs to allow touchscreen control and special technology to regular the temperature of your hands.
Shop Snowboard Gloves and Mittens
Snowboard Boots
Snowboard boots are a must as they are designed to connect to your snowboard via the snowboard bindings. They are made to conform to your feet and usually become more comfortable to wear over time. When trying on different styles, be sure to wear your snowboard socks, which are thicker than your average gym sock. Some things to consider when shopping for your snowboard boots are the lacing system, flex, the outsole or external footprint, overall comfort, and the responsiveness of the sole, liner, and built-in cushioning.
Snowboard Helmet
Even the most experienced snowboarders take a spill every once in a while. Wearing a snowboard helmet will protect your brain if this occurs and allow you to take risks on the slopes with greater confidence. Some helmets provide a little warmth and protection from the elements too. When you’re shopping for your helmet, bring your hat/beanie along so you get the size just right.
Snowboard
Renting
Going snowboarding for the first time? If so, you can rent a snowboard, bindings, and boot setup right from the resort. The good thing about this is that it allows you to try out different types of boards to see what you like to ride the most (all-mountain, freestyle, and freeride). It’s important to select beginner-specific equipment if you’re just starting off, which makes learning easier.
Buying
When buying your first snowboard you’ll want to know what kind of riding you plan to do most, your preferred board flex (soft to stiff), and your appropriate size. There are a lot of boards to choose from, so knowing these three things can help you begin to narrow down your search. If you’re unsure about any of these things, simply visit one of our shops and our expert staff can assist you. Our Snowboard Buying Guide is also a helpful resource to review before buying.
Bindings
As you select your new snowboard, you’ll also want to be thinking about snowboard bindings. The bindings attach to your board, and they will need to be compatible with your chosen boots. You don’t necessarily need to purchase the same brand of boots and bindings, but doing so can simplify the process. Again, our Snowboard Buying Guide is a helpful resource to learn more about the binding/snowboard setup, and our friendly staff is always here to help!
Snowboard Goggles
Snowboard goggles, while not absolutely necessary, can help you see clearly amidst the glare of the sun; shield your eyes from flying snow, wind and debris as you carve down the hill; and keep your eyes from getting icy cold.
Balaclavas and Neck Gaiters
Balaclavas or neck gaiters protect your face and neck from the wind, cold, and sun exposure. These items are especially useful on colder days and can easily be adjusted or removed depending on weather conditions.
Season Pass or Lift Tickets
Remember to keep your season pass or lift tickets in a secure, easily accessible place to avoid delays at the lift. Some snowboarding venues and apps allow for digital ticket storage to streamline the process.
Cell Phone Tether
If you bring your cell phone with you while snowboarding, it’s important to secure it with a tether to prevent it from getting lost on the slopes. A tether can ensure easy access to your phone for taking pictures, checking the time, or using the app—all while making sure you don’t drop it in the snow.
Nice to Haves
The following items are not required for snowboarding, but they help make your experience as fun, safe, and streamlined as possible.
Protective Gear
Wrist guards and impact shorts (to keep your bum happy) are worth investing in—especially when you’re just starting out and for those into learning new tricks.
Shop Snowboard Protective Gear
Hydration Pack/Backpack
Carrying a hydration pack allows you to stay hydrated without needing frequent stops on the slopes. Make sure to choose a hydration pack that’s lightweight and insulated to prevent the water from freezing. If you opt for a backpack, make sure not to overload it, which can throw off your balance while snowboarding!
Multitool
It’s always a good and practical idea to carry a small multitool for quick and easy adjustments to gear, such as tightening bindings or fixing minor issues. Most multitools easily fit in a pocket or small backpack.
Other Optional Snowboarding Items
Here are just a few other suggestions for ways to make the most of your boarding excursion:
- Video camera: A small, compact camera can be easily stored in your backpack and allows you to take some truly stunning shots on the slopes to commemorate the experience.
- Electrolytes: Making use of electrolyte packets can help maintain energy levels, especially during long days on the slopes. These can be easily mixed into water from a hydration pack.
- Chapstick: Using chapstick with SPF protects lips from windburn and sun exposure.
- Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen protects against the strong UV rays at high altitudes. It should be applied repeatedly throughout the day, even if it’s cloudy.
- Tissues: It’s a fact of cold weather: you’ll need to wipe your nose often throughout the day!
- Snacks: We recommend bringing portable, high-energy snacks like protein bars or trail mix that can be eaten quickly on the lift or during a break.
- Activity watch: An activity watch can track progress, monitor your heart rate, and (obviously) keep track of time. Some have waterproof and durable features ideal for snowboarding.
- Boot dryers: At the end of a fun but long day of snowboarding, make sure you dry your boots overnight to make sure they’re dry and comfortable for the next day. Some portable boot dryers can easily fit into a travel bag.
Ready to Gear Up?
Swing by your local ERIK’S to pick up any snowboarding essentials you may not have and ask our expert staff for advice, or check out our inventory online. Then, get out there and ride! We’ll see you on the slopes.
Text with a Human: 952-243-5476
Live Chat: Click the chat icon in the lower right-hand corner of this screen.
Phone:952-351-9148
Email: braintrust@eriksbikeshop.com
Store: Find a Store
Toll-Free: 877-885-2453