A snowboard for a child who already knows how to snowboard has slightly different selection criteria from a board intended for younger and more inexperienced children. Below are recommendations for choosing a snowboard for children of different ages and abilities:
- 7–11 year olds:
Snowboards designed for children are usually a good choice for this age group. Choose a board that is the right length based on the child's height and weight. Flexibility and size can vary depending on the brand, so it's important to choose a board that matches the child's math skills and planned skiing style.
- 12–16 year olds:
Young people who are already experienced snowboarders can switch to using compact adult snowboards. The choice depends on their skill level and what type of skiing they like. Young people can choose a board that matches their weight and height as well as their skiing style (e.g. all mountain, park, freeride).
- Over 16 years old:
Young people over the age of 16 can use adult snowboards, and their choices are based on the same principles as adults. Choose a board that suits the young person's skills, height, weight and planned skiing style.
Important notes:
Board length: Choose the board length based on the child's height and weight. A shorter board is more agile in Park and freestyle descent, while a longer board offers better stability at higher speeds and in deeper snow.
Flexibility: Flexibility affects the board's agility and behavior in different conditions. A softer board is often suitable for parks and tricks, while a stiffer board can be better in deeper snow and fast descents.
Intended use: Ask the child what kind of snowboarding he enjoys most. Is it a parking ticket, a free ticket or something else? This helps to choose the right kind of board.
Expert help: If you are not sure which board to choose, you should turn to experts, such as snowboard shop salespeople or ski center rental staff, who can offer valuable help in choosing a board.
Also, be sure to wear the proper protective gear, such as a helmet and guards, to keep snowboarding safe and fun.
