O/T Snowboards

[Tyrone]

My kids are learning to snowboard. I am already being dragged into shops where I am both too old and uncomfortable (in the way that others are, talking to mechanics and builders). The one thing that hasn't got passed me is how expensive the kit is, but it also seems like the kind of stuff which enjoys (suffers) from severe upgradeitis. So, has anybody got any boards with bindings (I'm learning) for sale.

All offers considered, photos would help as the scheme needs to be radical man, apparently 😬

[Irrelevant]

Tyrone: You need to get the right size/kind of board....How big are your feet? This is important as over about a 10 and you may well need a wide board - especially if you have on open stance. How heavy are you? You need to get a board of the right length....don't listen to anyone who says it's based on height(a very common misunderstanding) - it's your weight that matters. If you're starting you should get a soft/flexible board that is easier to control.

 

You are correct about upgradeitis so just get a cheap board(of a suitable spec) as if you get hooked (it's more addictive than crack cocaine ) you will most likely want to get something more specialised, e.g. freestyle, carving, slalom, downhill, etc.

 

Don't buy in the UK - it's a rip-off. Canada is very cheap so try and find someone who will export once you know what you want.

 

Some tips:

1. when you first learn, put a folded bath towel down the back of your trousers.....if you don't, you'll know why (bruised cockyx's are very painful 😳).

2. Wear wrist protectors as wrists are very vulnerable when you're learning and falling a lot.

3. If it's hard snow/ice, wear a helmet.

4. MAKE SURE YOUR/YOUR KIDS' BOOTS FIT WELL....especially around the heel, this is very important.

 

It'll all be worth it though once you can snowboard as the sensation you'll get from carving down a steep virgin powder field is absolutely amazing

 

Accumulating bits for the Super-Busa. . .

[Racingshoe]

I have a Niedecker freestyle/beginner board that is surplus to requirements..... I think it is a 155 (length) and will suit up to size 11 boots. Only used for one season by the wife, but there was poor snow, so the bottom is a bit scratched. Otherwise it's in good nick. Will go for 50 notes...........

 

Rik Robarts - bl**dy bright orange 1.4k SS here

[Tyrone]

Thanks for the replies and advice guys.

 

Adam, I'm too old, fat and stiff to even consider snowboarding but the kids are loving it. At the moment they are hiring gear from the slope but I can see this attitude changing quickly. The girls are 10 and 12, size 1 and 5 shoes respectively.

 

Rik, do you have photos. I would be very interested.

 

Cheers

Brian

[mrblondie]

Adams spot on with his tips but i have 2 must does

 

.. take some lessons....or your a danger to your self and everyone on the slope !!!

...buy some cheap skateboard / rolerbade knee pads,... your knees take sucha pounding when your learning

 

Blondie

ex snow board guide and instructor for 4 years

[Racingshoe]

Tyrone - I will try and take some photos tonight. Send me your email address, and i'll forward them on.....

 

Rik Robarts - bl**dy bright orange 1.4k SS here

[Tyrone]

Rik,

email is:

brian@brianramsey.wanadoo.co.uk.

 

Blondie,

The kids have had two lessons, they are not allowed on the slope until they achieve a minimum standard which would be a minimum 5 lessons.

[wonkey eyed barmaid]

tyrone,

you dont say how tall you are...

 

this is important in selecting a board of the correct length. too short is difficult to balance, and too long is difficult to turn.

 

(although each have them have advantages at a more advanced level, for carving/powder/tricks)

 

as a rough guide, it used to be said that the board stood on end should be up to your top lip. (not sure if this is still correct today with more advanced board construction and materials)

 

good luck. you'll have a great time once on the slopes! (oh, and real snow is MILES better than dryslope, so dont be put off)

[Grim Reaper]

Hi Brian,

I've been boarding for about 7 years now, have a few boards in the loft and 3 pairs of boots and bindings but they are all for someone my size (mens size 9 UK), I might know someone with a small board suitable for a girl (pink with a rabbit on the bottom) for sale, not sure if they would have the boots and bindings to go with it though.

I'll ask and let you know.

[dogvet]

Been boarding for 9 years , what you see is what you get with great thrills!

Try boardwise, they usually have a good selection of 2nd hand boards ect will hire out kit in uk to take on holiday.

[Tyrone]

Thanks guys.

Dave, we can have a chat at the next meeting. Not sure the colour scheme of the kids boards will pass Fran's tastes she's only a girl in biological terms. Her favourite colour (apart from BRG and yellow, obviously) is black. But you never know.