The right snowboard size: Everything you need to know

Choosing the right snowboard length is crucial for your riding style, control on the piste and enjoyment of snowboarding. The wrong choice can have the following effects:

• When the snowboard is too long:
  • More difficult to manoeuvre, especially for beginners.
  • Requires mor effort to steer and turn.
  • Requires more balance and technique, especially in the park or when performing tricks.
• When the snowboard is too short:
  • Unstable at higher speeds and off-piste conditions.
  • Less lift in deep snow.
  • Restrictions for a taller or heavier rider.

With the right board, you can ride more safely, improve your technique and enjoy your day on the slopes to the full.

Just like skiing, snowboard size is all about length! And this is determined by the following factors:

• Body height
• Body weight
• Riding ability
• Riding style
• Boots

You already know why height alone is not a sufficient criterion for choosing a suitable new board, right? After all, it's obvious that a 1.85 metre tall, very slim woman (e.g. an endurance runner) puts a different load on the snowboard than a 1.85 metre tall, strong man (e.g. a boxer). Here are the factors to consider in detail:

Weight has a big influence on the ideal snowboard length. Even if you are the same height, your physique can be very different, with heavier riders needing longer boards for stability and lighter riders needing shorter models for more manoeuvrability and control. The most obvious difference is between men and women. The main points about how this important factor affects your choice are:

• Heavy riders:
  • Longer snowboards offer more stability and better edge grip.
  • More control due to the more even distribution of the longer board.
• Lighter riders:
  • Benefit from shorter models that are easier to manoeuvre.
  • Shorter boards require less effort to steer and turn.
• Combination of weight and height:
  • Even at the same height, different weights can have a significant effect on the choice of your board.
  • A heavier rider who is taller needs a longer board than a lighter person of the same body size.

Taking your weight into account is a key factor in choosing a new snowboard that best suits your riding style and technique.

The choice of shape and especially the length of the snowboard is influenced by the type of riding. Off-piste, freestyle and freeride riders generally need a longer snowboard for more stability and balance in deep snow. If you want to be on the groomed slopes as well as off-piste, all-mountain boards are the perfect mix. For adrenaline rushes in the parks, shorter snowboards are easier to handle and more responsive on rails and boxes. Here’s a quick guide:

The construction of snowboards often differs depending on the target group:

• Snowboards for men: These models are usually wider and harder to compensate for the higher mass and larger boots. They offer maximum stability and edge grip.
• Snowboards for women: Women's boards tend to be narrower and lighter. The softer flex allows for easier steering and better control with less body weight.
• Children's snowboards: Snowboards for children are shorter, lighter and have a softer flex to give young riders easier handling and quicker learning progress.

Thanks to these adjustments, snowboards can be adapted to the individual needs of men, women and children.

These size charts give you an initial overview of men's and women's boards to help you find the right length.

For professional advice and an exact calculation of the right snowboard length, it is worth visiting one of the over 800 INTERSPORT Rent rental shops.

Snowboard length: Chart for women

Snowboard length: Chart for men

Choosing the right snowboard size is crucial for both fun and safety on the slopes. By considering all of the factors above, you can choose a snowboard that suits you perfectly. For additional safety and professional advice, contact our INTERSPORT Rent team. Our RENTertainers can calculate your exact snowboard size and will be happy to advise you in the shop.

Choosing the right snowboard depends largely on your preferred riding style and area of use. All-mountain snowboards, freestyle or freeride snowboards are the most common types. To find your snowboard type, we suggest

1. Analyse your riding style: Think about where and how you prefer to ride – are you groomed slope or a park rider, or do you prefer to ride off-piste?
2. Consider your experience level: Beginners often benefit from all-mountain models as they are versatile and forgiving.
3. Consider your personal preferences: Do you want to learn tricks, pick up speed or explore untouched powder snow?

By honestly assessing your riding style and preferences, you can choose the type of snowboard that suits you best and thus maximise your riding experience.

Beginners should choose a shorter snowboard. Shorter boards are more agile and easier to manoeuvre. They also require less effort to steer and are therefore perfect for first attempts on the slopes or in the park.

Advice: As a beginner, choose a board that is 5 to 10 cm shorter than your height. Visit one of the over 800 INTERSPORT Rent shops - we will be happy to advise you!

Boot size has a significant influence on the width of the snowboard. It is therefore important to always check the compatibility between your boots, your bindings and the snowboard:

• Small feet (EU 36-41): Choose a narrower board to make it easier to put pressure on the edges.
• Large feet (EU 42+): Choose a wide board so that your boots don't stick out and you don't get your toes or heels stuck in the snow when turning.

The cost of quality snowboard equipment varies depending on the brand, quality and individual requirements. However, for a complete set of snowboarding equipment including board, bindings, boots, clothing and safety equipment, you should expect to spend between € 900 and € 1,800. And don’t forget your accessories! But you can save money with INTERSPORT Rent - take advantage of the rental opportunities at over 800 locations worldwide!