Essential Snowboarding Gear for Beginners and Intermediates
I still remember my first time snowboarding – mostly because I spent more time on the ground than on my feet. It was a humbling experience, to say the least, but having the right gear made it so much better. With each fall, I learned something new, and eventually felt the rush that kept me coming back for more.
Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate rider, having the right gear can make or break your experience on the mountain. If you’re just starting out, you don’t need to buy everything right away – renting gear first is a smart way to make sure you actually enjoy snowboarding before making a big investment. It also allows you to try different boards and boots to see what works best for you.
Once you’re ready to commit, having your own setup will make a huge difference in comfort, performance, and safety. In this guide, I break down all the essential snowboarding gear for a beginner or intermediate rider, plus some key tech gadgets – like the Cardo Packtalk Outdoor – to make on-mountain communication easier.
Jump Ahead:
Gear:
Snowboard
Your snowboard is the most critical piece of gear, and choosing the right one depends on your riding style. As a beginner, you’ll want a board that’s easy to maneuver, stable, and forgiving.
Board Length: your board should reach somewhere between your chin and nose when standing upright. Most companies have a size chart for additional reference.
Flex: Softer flex boards are ideal for beginners because they’re more forgiving and easier to control. I upgraded to a slightly stiffer board as I progressed, to give myself more stability at higher speeds and better edge control on steeper terrain.
Board Profile:
Rocker – easier to turn and float in powder; great for beginners.
Flat or hybrid – offers a mix of stability and playfulness; good for intermediate riders.
Camber – providers the most edge control but require good technique; great for advanced snowboarders.
These are some snowboard recommendations for both beginner and intermediate riders. My first snowboard was the GNU Ladies Choice and it was a great board to learn on. I now ride the Jones Twin Sister and it has allowed me to progress even more!
Bindings
It’s important to get a pair of bindings that are comfortable, responsive, and coordinate well with your board.
Flex: The softer the flex, the easier and smoother the ride. Medium flex bindings are good for intermediate riders who are looking for something more responsive.
Type of Binding:
Strap: adjustable and secure fit.
Step-On: convenient but require compatible boots.
My current bindings are the Union Triology’s which have a traditional strap set-up with medium flex (coordinate well with my medium flex snowboard).
Boots
This is one of the most important parts of your snowboarding kit. A solid pair of boots is essential for comfort and control. They should have all of the following:
Fit tightly but don’t cause pressure points. I ultimately sized down two sizes!
Provides good support. If you have a narrower heel, I recommend getting a pair of boots that have a separate adjustable heel cup.
Have a lacing system that works for you. I prefer a BOA setup for easy tightening, but it’s all based on personal preference.
It’s important to note that boots take a while to break in. It took me about 8-10 days to fully break in my K2 Contour boots, but I love them!
Helmet
Safety is always a priority, and wearing a helmet is a non-negotiable. Choose a helmet that fits securely and has MIPS Technology for added brain protection. These helmets are all great options.
Goggles
The best goggles have anti-fog technology, UV protection, and a lens tint that is suitable for variable conditions. Some goggles have interchangeable lenses or lenses that automatically change tint as conditions change. I currently use the Glade Adapt 2S and they are working very well for me.
Clothing:
Outerwear
Snowboard jackets and pants should keep you warm and dry, while also being comfortable to move in. There are different components of outwear that may stand out to you – insulation, pit zips, leg vents, bib vs. pants, pockets, etc. This is all personal preference, however, it’s very important that all of your outerwear is waterproof (GORTEX).
Mid Layers
Layering is key for warmth. The level of insulation depends on the weather and your riding intensity.
Fleece – lightweight, breathable, perfect for mild to moderate cold.
Down or synthetic insulation – best for very cold conditions. I prefer synthetic insulation since it’s better in wet weather.
Soft-shell jackets – provide warmth with additional wind and water resistance.
Choose something that fits well under your snowboard jacket and keeps you at a perfect temperature.
Base Layers
Base layers are essential for regulating body temperature and keeping moisture away from your skin. The material and fit of your base layers is key. Tighter fit base layers help trap heat and wick moisture efficiently.
Material:
No cotton – traps sweat and makes you colder.
Merino wool – naturally warm, breathable, and odor-resistant.
Synthetic fabrics (polyester or nylon) – quick-drying and breathable.
Gloves or Mittens
It’s so important to have good gloves or mittens. Cold hands can ruin your day on the mountain! Here are some things to note:
Mittens are warmer, gloves have more dexterity.
Waterproofing and insulation are both very important.
Heated gloves are expensive but so nice for freezing days.
Tech & Safety Gear:
Communication Device
Staying connected on the slopes is often overlooked, but it makes a huge difference – whether you’re riding with friends, learning new skills, or handling an emergency. The Cardo Packtalk Outdoor is a game-changer, allowing hands-free communication without stopping or pulling out your phone. These are my favorite features:
Hands-free, real-time communication – just talk naturally with your friends as you ride.
Group communication – connect with 2-15 riders.
Weatherproof – built to handle snow, wind, and cold.
Easy helmet integration – sleek, low-profile fit.
Music & phone – ride with music or answer phone calls.
Real-time coaching – friends can give you feedback as you ride. This is such an awesome benefit!
Now I never hit the slopes without my Cardo Packtalk Outdoor.
Other Accessories:
Neck Gaiter or Balaclava
Protects your face from wind and snow. Definitely a necessity!
Hand warmers
Lifesaver on very cold days. I like to put one in each mitten.
Backpack (optional)
Carry water, snacks, and extra layers for a long day on the mountain. I prefer to stuff all of my pockets with snacks instead.
Having the right snowboarding gear can make a massive difference in your comfort, performance, and safety on the mountain. Whether you’re a beginner still learning the basics or an intermediate rider, investing in quality gear can enhance your experience.
Before you hit the slopes, double-check your gear list and drop a comment below with your must-have snowboarding items!