Best Entry-Level Snowboard: What Beginners Should Look For
Quick answer: The best entry-level snowboard has a rocker (or rocker-dominant) profile so it's less likely to catch an edge, a soft, forgiving flex, and edge tech that grips on ice. Choose an all-mountain shape in a length that roughly reaches between your chin and nose, sized for your weight.
Are you just getting into snowboarding? Maybe you're ready to get away from that department store toy and hit the mountain on a real board. Your first real board should make learning easier, not harder. In this video we break down the Arbor Foundation, a classic example of what a great beginner board looks like.
What makes a good beginner snowboard
Rocker profile
The Arbor Foundation is designed with a true rocker profile, so you're not going to be catching edges as often, which lets you focus on linking turns. Rocker boards are also easier to pivot and float better in powder.
Edge grip
Another indispensable feature is Arbor's Grip Tech, which adds extra contact points along the edge so you keep traction through crud and ice, a big deal on firm Pacific Northwest mornings.
Soft, forgiving flex
The Foundation is softer than many boards on the market, which translates into a more forgiving ride. Whether you're on groomers, in the icy stuff or in powder, a soft board smooths out mistakes and makes takeoffs and landings easier.
Price
A beginner board doesn't need premium materials. Spend the savings on boots that fit well; comfortable boots matter more than anything else when you're learning.
Shop snowboards and bindings
The Foundation has been updated since this review. Here are current boards and bindings you can order online. For a true first board, stop by our Grand Avenue store in Portland and we'll match you to the right model and size.
- Salomon Oh Yeah Women's Snowboard Playful, forgiving all-mountain board
- Salomon Wonder Women's Snowboard Easy-turning women's board
- Salomon Craft LTD Snowboard Versatile freestyle board for progressing riders
- Salomon Rhythm Binding Comfortable, easy-to-adjust binding
- Salomon District Binding Soft, all-mountain binding
- Giro Neo II MIPS Helmet Don't learn without one
Beginner snowboard FAQ
What type of snowboard is best for beginners?
A soft-flexing, all-mountain board with a rocker or hybrid rocker profile. Rocker reduces edge catches and makes turning easier.
What size snowboard should a beginner get?
Most beginners do well with a board that stands between the chin and nose, adjusted for weight. Slightly shorter is easier to turn while you learn.
Should a beginner buy a cheap snowboard?
Avoid department-store toy boards, but you don't need a premium board either. A mid-priced beginner board plus well-fitting boots is the best investment.