Should snowboard length be based on height or weight?
Lookin around on the internet I found several charts that size snowboards by height, while others do it by weight. What is the best approach when choosing a board length? Is there some sort of hybrid chart out there that goes by both height and weight?
1 Answer
I would say that it depends:
If you've ever looked at BMI as a measure of one's health or fitness level then its evident that this measure is skewed towards what is considered the "average" body type. For instance, if you have a lean but very muscular build, your body mass index may very well show up in the "unhealthy" range.
The same thought process can be applied to snowboard sizing charts. I would recommend renting before buying to get some idea. Keep exchanging your rental board (most rental places will be OK with this) until you get the size right or close to right.
As far as the charts are concerned, I'd use them only as a very preliminary reference as the ideal snowboard length for you depends both on your height, your weight and many other factors (including the type of riding you prefer - freeriding / freestyle / backcountry etc.).
Welcome!
snowboardingQA provides a powerful and intuitive question and answer platform for snowboarding enthusiasts. Registration is not required to ask questions or provide answers.