Getting new board after 3 years in - any tips?
Hi all, I’m planning to get a new snowboard this summer in Japan after my first lesson 3 years ago. I’m from the tropics, so I don’t get to hit the slopes that much but considering everything (jobs, schedule, time and money), I am lucky enough to sometimes snowboard twice a year.
I’ve decided that I’d like to go all in with it. I know some of you would probably suggest that I get a secondhand snowboard but coming from a tropical country, there are very limited options when it comes to new snowboards, so let alone people selling their boards. New snowboards are quite pricey where I come from too. Hence, the mission to get it in Tokyo while I’m there this summer.
In terms of my level, I feel that I am probably at level 4, or intermediate phase. I am able to link my turns, going smoothly on “S” from heel side to toe side on reds and blues. I can’t do any jumps (attempted) or go off piste.
My goal is to do some easy tree runs, not be afraid to try blacks though I’m not aiming to be that good. I just want to be modest but confident at the sport, and most importantly, have fun. A few different types jumps or tricks would be fun but not looking to learn every other trick on the book.
Here’s what I am hoping to get:
- Snowboard bag (with rollers)
- Snowboard
- Step on binds
- Step on boots
I have a few questions in my mind too:
- If you own a roller snowboard bag, are there any disadvantages? Would a regular snowboard bag work well?
- What are the pros and cons of getting step on binds and boots?
- Are there any real differences between getting men’s and women’s boots?
- Same question as 3. for snowboard.
- Let’s say I am not able to plan a trip for 12 months, is there anything I should do to maintain the snowboard to ensure that it doesn’t fall apart when it’s used the next time? Or it doesn’t really matter?
- How do you practice with your board during off-season times?
- Considering my goals, what type of board should I get? If it matters, I am also a goofy.
- I am assuming that because I’m getting step ons, I should probably get the binds with the board at the same time? Or does it not matter?
- I see that there are different types of step on binds, how do I know if the step on boots are compatible with the binds? Or are they strictly matched by their model?
Phew - I know that’s a lot of questions but thanks whoever will be answering in advance!