Everything that’s great about snowboarding can be tainted by frostbite, a wrist injury or even just an inconvenience. Our riders consider these must-haves:
Lock
- Demon stomp-lock combo
Nothing will ruin a session like having your board jacked. And you have only yourself to blame if you don’t lock it up. Demon’s Stomp Lock is a great solution if you’re a slacker when it comes to remembering to bring a lock because this one is attached! It comes with a leash/lock- 36 inch steel cable with a 3 digit combo lock. It has an easy to re-set combo, withstands up to 300 lbs of torque/pressure, has a low-profile pad with Advanced Grip Tech to assist with traction, and takes up Minimal weight and space . $24.99. Traditional cable locks start around $15 and fit in your pocket with a case designed to reduce bruising when you land on your pocket in the park.
Body Armour
- Demon Flex Force Body Short $40
In front, the Demon Flex Force Padded Short has double density pads that cover your hips and perforated wrap-around pads that cover your thighs. In back, the Demon Flex Force Padded Shorts come with soft but slightly rigid, double density Air Shield pads to protect your tailbone and rear end. All of these pads, front and back, are slotted into pockets and removable from a lycra mesh design that is both breathable and quick drying. The breathable ski and snowboard short pads are made from foam, not hard plastic, so you receive the benefit of protection (and warmth!) without feeling like a running back in a Friday night football game. So comfortable you can pull any move, from an ollie to a backside 720, without the slightest sense that you’re wearing protective body armor. Tops also available, as well as women’s models. $40
Helmet & Face Mask
Burton fleece-lines Bandito comes in several colors and patterns
K2 Rant Helmet comes with a cool face mask
Everyone needs a brain bucket, and a face mask. How about the all-inclusive K2 Rant Pro which comes with face protection and audio jacks. This helmet fits lower, features rugged ABS shell construction and a washable head liner. Several color choices. $79 Other helmets start around $40.
Fleece-Lined bandanas are all the rage and are available in dozens of styles from a variety of manufacturers. The Burton Bandito is one example of hard-working protection that looks like it’s not working hard. From $7.99.
Base Layer
Nothing can ruin a great day of riding quite like cotton. You see, cotton soaks up your sweat and then freezes solid. Luckily, the Burton Midweight Shirt is made with DRYRIDE Ultrawick™ fabric which is scientifically engineered to pull heat-robbing sweat away from your skin and propel it out through your layers. You stay dry, warm, and stoked all day, and since its midweight you get a versatile level of warmth that works all season. If all that isn’t enough, the Midweight Shirt comes stocked with an arsenal of added features including four-way stretch for mobility, Stink-Proofing, and chafe-free seams for next-to-skin nirvana $44.95. Great selection from 686, Roxy & Quiksilver too.
Wrist Guard
- Demon under-glove wrist guards
Whether you’re new to snowboarding or carving like a veteran protection for your wrists is a must have. Under glove guards have adjustable neoprene cuffs, aluminum brace bars and fit under most style gloves. Mittens and gloves with built-in guards provide the same protection, some say more comfortably. $20 and up.
Gear Bag
Snowboard Bags with or without wheels protect your board and help you stay organized
Can’t find your boarding socks? Is the puddle in your garage damaging the edges of your board? Where do you keep your wax and tools? Get a gear bag! Stash your board, tools, tuning supplies, gloves, etc. by throwing them in the zippered accessory pocket and you’ll always be ready to go. Consider a helmet and/or boot bag to really keep things together. Your buddies will be impressed at your organization.
Slouch Hats
- Shep’s has literally hundreds & hundreds of hats in stock starting at $8.99.
The must have fashion hat for snowboards, skiers and urban fashionistas. Available in dozens of styles and colors.