Finding the right snowboard for your kid can be both exciting and challenging. An 80cm snowboard is often considered a great starting point for young beginners.
How to Size Snowboards for Kids
Why Choose an 80cm Snowboard?
An 80cm snowboard is a great choice for young kids who are just starting out. This size is manageable for smaller children, allowing them to learn balance and control without feeling overwhelmed. If the board is too big, it can be difficult for them to maneuver, making the learning process harder. On the other hand, a board that is too small might not provide enough stability. Baby snowboards are designed with softer flex and forgiving edges to make learning more accessible for little ones. Unlike regular snowboards, they are lighter and easier to turn, which helps reduce the risk of falls and injuries while your child is getting the hang of snowboarding.
Key Considerations for Selecting a Snowboard
Generally speaking, weight is the most critical factor in deciding snowboard size. However, with kids, height is an important consideration as well. Most brands offer recommended weight ranges, but neglect height and recommended boot size. Round the measurement to the closest board size available. For example, if your child's eyes are 123cm from the ground, this means they can fit into a 120 or 125. When in doubt, err on the side of longer, because kids are always growing.
Growth
Kids grow quickly! Buying slightly larger snowboard gear for your child with the intention of them growing into it can be a good strategy, but it should be done carefully. It's reasonable to choose gear that provides a bit of room for growth, but don't go excessively large. A snowboard that's too big can make it challenging for a child to control and enjoy their snowboarding experience.
Durability
Kids can be tough on gear. Kids' snowboards are typically shorter and narrower than adult boards. This allows for easier maneuverability and control for children who may have less strength and experience.
Read also: Is the Gnu Antigravity Snowboard Worth It?
Accessories
Some kids boards are compatible with accessories. If possible, try to involve your child in the process.
Boots and Bindings: Ensuring a Perfect Fit
Fit is paramount. Above all, ensure the boots fit snugly without causing pain. Each snowboard boot brand can have variations in their sizes. Each brands boots fit a little bit different and offer different shaped liners.
Room to Grow
While you might be tempted to buy boots with a little extra room for growth, avoid going too big. Excessive space can lead to reduced control and cold feet.
Lacing Systems
There are different lacing systems available - traditional laces, quick-pull systems, and BOA dials.
Brand Compatibility
Particularly with kids' gear, it's beneficial to keep boots and bindings within the same brand to ensure compatibility. The boots are designed to fit perfectly with bindings from the same brand.
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Socks
A good pair of snowboarding socks can significantly impact comfort. Remember that comfort is king. Even the most technically advanced boot won't do any good if it's causing discomfort. It is crucial that the bindings you select for your child fit properly with their boots. Each snowboard binding brand can have variations in their sizes and compatibility with boots. It's important to make sure that the bindings you purchase will work with your kids' boots. Bindings might seem a bit complicated, but they're actually pretty straightfoward.
Ease of Use
Look for bindings that are easy for your child to get in and out of.
Adjustability
As your child grows and their skills develop, having adjustable bindings can be a boon.
Flex Rating
Like snowboards, bindings have a flex rating. For beginners, especially young children, a softer flex is generally recommended.
Essential Snowboarding Gear
With kids' outerwear, it's often function over fashion. But this year's collections look great! Goggles are a must and are fully adjustable to fit even the smallest head. Helmets are a crucial safety accessory that every kid should use. Facemasks will keep your little one warm, even on the coldest of days on the slopes. Falling is inevitable, get some protection for those icy days. Warm hands are a must in nearly any condition. Warm insulated gloves are essential. Almost as important as warm hands, are warm feet. These are espectially important for boot comfort as well.
Read also: Renting Snowboards in Whistler Blackcomb: What You Need to Know
Safety First
Always mandatory - A properly fitted helmet is non-negotiable for kids snowboarding. Never compromise on safety gear to save money. A good helmet and protective equipment are investments in your child's wellbeing. Always check equipment regularly for damage and replace as needed.
Tips for a Successful Start
Begin with short 2-3 hour sessions to prevent fatigue and frustration. Stick to beginner-friendly green runs with wide, gentle slopes. Layer properly with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells. Celebrate small victories and keep the experience fun. Most kids take 3-5 days to link turns confidently.
Where to Buy and When
Opting for pre-season sales in the fall is the ideal time to invest in your child's snowboard gear. During this period, stores provide the most extensive range of designs and sizing options. It's always best to make sure that wherever you buy your kids' snowboard gear offers a good return policy.
Snowboard Maintenance
Kids' snowboard technology, like adult snowboard technology, does evolve over the years, but the pace of change may not be as rapid. Yes, kids' snowboards, like adult snowboards, benefit from regular waxing and tuning to maintain their performance and ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Properly storing your child's snowboard gear during the offseason is important to ensure it remains in good condition for the next winter. Make sure that all equipment is clean and dry before storing. Some other tips - loosen the bindings, remove the liners from the boots and store in a cool dry place.
Gender-Neutral Gear
When it comes to snowboard equipment, as with many other sports, the industry mostly offers unisex or gender-neutral gear. The focus has shifted away from gender-specific equipment and instead focuses on individual preferences, performance, and fit. There are certain kids' boards created by a female or male rider so they may appeal to one gender more than the other.
Additional Safety Gear
Keeping your child safe and comfortable is important when they are out on the slopes:
- Ski Harness and Ski Ties Harness: These harnesses are great for beginners as they help control speed and direction.
- Ski Goggles and Snowboard Goggles: Clear vision is crucial for safety. Goggles protect against wind, snow, and harmful UV rays.
- Balaclavas: Keeping warm is essential in cold climates. A kids balaclava, ski helmet balaclava, or over helmet balaclava will protect your child’s face and neck from the cold.
By ensuring your child has the right gear, you’ll help them enjoy their snowboarding experience to the fullest.
Finding a Reliable Snowboard Shop
Finding a reliable snowboard shop is key to getting the right equipment. Ask around for recommendations. Look for shops with knowledgeable staff who can offer personalized advice. Check the shop’s return policy. Look for seasonal sales and discounts. Compare prices online before making a purchase. Visit local shops to see if they have clearance items.
Canadian Snowboarding Destinations
Canadian snowboarding has a lot to offer, with many popular spots for kids. Places like Whistler and Banff are great destinations where you can find both beginner-friendly slopes and excellent snowboard shops.
Roxy Poppy Snowboard Package
The Roxy Poppy Snowboard Package is a great introduction to snowboarding for kids. They're never too young to make waves and move mountains. The Poppy Snowboard comes boxed in a convenient package with the bindings mounted. The bindings are easily adjustable, feature comfy straps, and are sized right for the board. A soft flex, catch-free radial sidecut, and rocker contour make the Poppy a perfect introduction to all mountain fun.
- Radial sidecut for smooth and predictable turns
- Full wood core is light and poppy
- Sandwich construction (110, 118, 128)
- Cap construction (80, 90, 100)
- Bindings assembled and mounted inside protective box
Poppy Binding Sizes
Speed Strap Binding (mounted on 80, 90, 100 cm snowboards)
Extra Small: 12 (child) - 3
Traditional Binding (mounted on 110, 118, 128 cm snowboards)
Small: 2 - 7
| Size | Contact Length | Side Cut | Nose/Tail Width | Waist Width | Stance | Set Back | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 cm | 50 cm | 4 m | 22.0/22.0 cm | 20 cm | 11"-13.5" | 0" | 44-77 lbs. |
| 90 cm | 60 cm | 5.5 m | 22.5/22.5 cm | 21 cm | 11"-14" | 0" | 44-88 lbs. |
| 100 cm | 66 cm | 6.5 m | 23.6/23.6 cm | 21 cm | 11"-14" | 0" | 44-88 lbs. |
| 110 cm | 76 cm | 6.5 m | 24.2/24.2 cm | 22 cm | 11"-14" | 0" | 55-99 lbs. |
| 118 cm | 82 cm | 6.5 m | 25.0/25.0 cm | 22 cm | 15"-18" | 0" | 55-99 lbs. |