What size snowboard should you choose?

An appropriate snowboard size will maximize the enjoyment you feel on the snow. It is sometimes difficult to select a suitable model given the many products available on the market. Generally, the dimensions are influenced by four factors: height, weight, level, and riding style. Choosing based on personal feeling is also possible. Everyone should adapt the guidelines to their own needs.

Snowboard size: the basic principles

Manufacturers express the size of a board in cm. For example, 155, 157, or 160 cm. Sometimes, they only indicate the last two digits: 55, 57, or 60. Riders have some leeway when choosing, and a difference of 3 or 4 cm is not a big mistake. However, going beyond this range would not be wise.

To simplify, an ideal board would be 20 to 23 cm shorter than your height. Manufacturers have therefore created a chart expressing snowboard length based on the user’s height, weight, and gender. Generally, the length decreases with lower weight. For example, a person 180 cm tall weighing more than 90 kg will be more comfortable on a 161 cm board, while if they weigh less than 65 kg, the length would drop to 157 cm.

In the past, the chin was used as a reference to determine the correct size. Since then, technology has evolved significantly, and manufacturers have refined their approaches. Now, the ideal snowboard should extend above the shoulders but remain below the forehead. Moreover, unlike skis, it is better not to choose a board longer than your height, even if you are advanced.

Weight and skill level influence board length

The freedom a rider enjoys is inversely proportional to the length of the board. The longer it is, the less maneuverable it becomes. Experienced riders can choose a much longer board. However, stability and versatility decrease with excessive length. The risk of falls increases if the board is too short.

As for weight, heavier riders are advised to size up. Indeed, a much stiffer board will better support them and respond more effectively to their demands. Similarly, lighter riders will feel more comfortable on much softer boards.

A width influenced by shoe size

The width of the snowboard is also important, as it enhances balance and improves control.

If the snowboard is too narrow, the boots will stick out into the snow. You’ll struggle to hold an edge properly, and part of your foot will drag on the surface when applying pressure. This friction will slow you down and disrupt your balance. It will also increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Wide boards are suitable for riders with large feet.

On the other hand, if the board is too wide, the heels and toes will be too far from the edges. Pressure will be insufficient. This setup will make turning more difficult. The rider will struggle to switch from edge to edge.

A snowboard adapted to your feet

The difference in width between boards is not very large. A standard board offers a width between 24 and 25.5 cm. This is suitable for riders wearing sizes 41 to 43.5 (EU).

Above that, there are MID WIDE boards, considered “mid-wide,” like many Lib Tech boards, which are often designed this way by default. They generally have a width between 25.5 and 26 cm and are intended for riders with shoe sizes 44–45 (EU).

Finally, the widest boards measure over 26 cm, and only riders with shoe sizes larger than 45 (EU) can control them properly.

Snowboard programs: understand them to choose better

A choice guided by your progression

When starting snowboarding, it is essential to choose a board suited to your level and goals. A versatile model oriented towards freestyle riding allows you to learn the basics with ease. This type of board is more forgiving, with smoother turn initiation and good maneuverability. You can find this profile at brands like Burton, K2 or Amplid.

Understanding snowboard programs

Choosing a snowboard is, above all, about choosing a program. Each board is designed for a specific use, with well-defined characteristics in terms of shape, flex, camber, and snow performance. We can distinguish four main programs:

Freestyle: soft, forgiving, lightweight boards, ideal for the park, jibbing, and technical tricks.
All-mountain: versatile boards that let you ride anywhere—on piste, along the edges, or with a playful approach to freeride.
Freeride: stiffer, directional boards built for steep terrain, powder, and speed.
Splitboard: designed for touring, these boards split into two skis for the ascent.

Brands like Burton, Lib Tech, K2, Jones, or Amplid all offer complete ranges covering these programs. Beginners will often choose a versatile, freestyle-oriented board that is easier to handle. Later, depending on riding style, they may specialize towards pure freestyle or technical freeride.

A natural progression

Snowboard programs allow you to progress intelligently. Starting with an easy, versatile board, then refining your choice based on preferences, is a recommended strategy. Brands like Burton, Lib Tech, or Jones offer a complete range to support each step of your journey.