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Kids Snowboarding 101

young snowboarder wearing a black Smith helmet and Smith goggles making a turn on snow

Kids Snowboarding 101: A Guide

Snowboard Gear, Kids Snowboard Sizing, and More

There are two scenarios that could have lead you to stumble on this snowboarding information page for kids. You might be a snowboarding or skiing family and you can't wait for your child to join the fun Or, your child expressed an interest in learning how to snowboard and you're doing your due diligence to find out all you can about the best kids' snowboards, what size snowboards for kids are appropriate and what resources are available to help teach your child how to snowboard.

Kids Snowboarding Info

We get it — snowboarding is a much more gear-intensive sport than, say, karate or jujitsu. You also want to make sure that your kid's desire to learn how to snowboard isn't as fleeting as their foray into modern dance, fencing or hockey. We've put together some information about snowboarding for kids that will familiarize you with the best kids' snowboard options and other info that will allow you to enter the wide, wonderful world of snowboarding well-informed.

Be Real, But Make It Fun

You know those memes that depict expectations versus the reality? This can 100% be applied to teaching children how to snowboard. No matter how excited little Johnny or Janey is about learning how to snowboard, the reality is that it is going to be hard work — at least harder than what they've built it up to be in their minds. It's not all going to be rainbows and they are sure as heck not going to be shredding like Shaun White on their first run. Kids, like the weather, are unpredictable. There may be tears, then again — there may not be. That's the thing. Go into snowboarding with an open mind, especially when it involves kids, who we all know (from experience) can go from zero to nuclear in a millisecond. There's no reason to be a Debbie-downer, though. Make it fun: include a promise for a fun incentive. Hot chocolate is always a good idea. Let them pick out their own gear so they feel good about their outerwear choices, hats and gloves.

What Age Is Right To Start Snowboarding

There's a huge debate on whether or not kids should learn how to ski before they learn to snowboard, and that's just not something we're going to engage in. There are valid points on both sides. However, some snowboarding families insist that as long as a child can walk, they can be strapped to a snowboard. They've certainly got the squatting position down by that age, which is a tough one for adults pull off.

What Gear Do Kids Need To Snowboard?

Finding the best kids' snowboard is probably the biggest hurdle to clear. We've put together a simple kids' snowboarding chart to help guide you in finding the best kids snowboard for your child. This particular chart uses averages, which are the 50th percentile of height and weight. An ideal board should reach their chest, tail to tip. We know, we know — every child is different; this chart is just an estimation.

Kids Snowboard Length Considerations

If your child is between two heights, find their weight. If they are lighter, go for the shorter end of the kids snowboard length range. Opt for a longer side of the range if they are heavier. If your child rides aggressively or fast, a longer board that's closer to their nose is best. Because kids grow so fast, we completely understand the temptation to purchase a longer board; however, it's important to stay within the recommended range. If you're too far outside that range, it can actually hurt their skills. It also won't be much fun for them.

Kids Snowboarding Helmets

A snowboarding helmet is a given; they will fall down. There's also a pretty good chance that they may run into something or someone. A helmet has to fit well; many of the kids' snowboarding helmets have an inner helmet that can be expanded for a better fit.

Kids Snowboarding Boots and Bindings

Choose well-fitting boots that have buckles that adjust so they're snug, but not too tight. Kids' bindings are adjustable, so they'll fit several shoe sizes. The bindings MUST fit the boot.

Gloves and Wrist Guards

Falling down is the nature of snowboarding, especially when just starting out. Many gloves come with wrist guards attached; you can also buy these separately. A best practice in snowboarding is to ball the fists when falling, not hold them out to try to “catch” themselves. A good reminder saying is, “Make a fist, save a wrist.”

Take A Class

When first starting out, it's a great thing for kids to take a class — particularly a class that's just for kids. They'll meet new people, learn the language (snowboarding has its own lingo and jargon) and learn important safety information.

Contact Level Nine

If you have any questions about choosing the right size snowboard for kids, gear or any other information, don't hesitate to contact us. We're available by phone, chat or email 7 days a week. You can also stop into one of our retail stores if you live in Utah. We'll be happy to help you find the best kids snowboards and gear.

Child wearing blue and green ski gear holding a blue snowboard over their head
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