Board

Snowboards are usually made of a wooden core wrapped in fiberglass and encased in a plastic or fiberglass cap with metal edges. The top of the board is known as the deck while the bottom is the base. When getting a snowboard, the two most important considerations are its length and waist width. Measured in centimeters, the length of the board depends on the rider's weight, height, and riding style, while the width usually depends on the size of the rider's foot. Here's how to pick the right board:

• As a rule of thumb, a board standing on end should reach between the rider's shoulder and bridge of nose.
• Most adults need a board between 150 cm and 165 cm tall.
• Waist width (or the width at the board's middle) is primarily a function of foot size. The bigger your feet, the wider board you'll need. Generally, the toe and heel of the boot should be flush with the edges of the snowboard. People with size 11 feet (or bigger) usually require a wide board.
• Consider your weight. Smaller, lighter folk should get a shorter, flexible board (to give them some weight for control), while bigger, heavier people should get a longer, rigid board (to help them sail along the smooth powder).
• Beginners should consider more flexible boards, since they offer more control (albeit less speed).
• You should definitely rent a snowboard your first couple times out. That way you can experiment with different styles and feels.
• Once more, ask a salesperson for help. That's what they get the big bucks for.

  Boots

  Most snowboarders' boots are known as "soft boots," due to their construction with soft materials such as waterproof leather and nylon. No more clunky ski boots! When picking out a pair, here's what to consider:

• The most important considerations are fit and comfort.
• Try the boots on with only one pair of socks (preferably the socks you intend to snowboard in).
• The fit should be snug, and your heel should not rise up too much when you bend your knee forward. You should not feel any pressure points or pinching.
• Make sure that your ankle feels secure.
• Again, if you're a novice, just rent the boots. Sample around until you find a pair you like, and then buy those.

  Bindings

  Bindings (that is, the straps) are what connect your feet to the board, so they're pretty important. When choosing a binding, keep in mind that your choice of boots will affect your choice of bindings and vice versa; they must complement each other:

• Most freestyle and freeride snowboarders use high-back bindings with two straps to secure the boot.
• Recently, step-in bindings have moved to the forefront. Like ski bindings, these do not rely on straps to secure the rider to the board. While these eliminate the time and hassle of "strapping in," they do require special boots and can sometimes become troublesome when snow gets jammed in them.
• When your selecting a binding in the store, bring your boots with you so that you can make sure they fit properly.

  A stance is how you stand on a snowboard-- or skateboard or surfboard. Since snowboards require the use of bindings your stance on a snowboard will determine how you mount your bindings.

  First things first. Regular or Goofy?