Snowboard Size By Height: 2023 Chart and Tips

When buying a new snowboard, it’s important to measure your snowboard size by height. Our chart and tips can help narrow the range of options.

Snowboarding is a sport that attracts people of all different backgrounds. Each year, millions of people try snowboarding for the first time. They need the right board in order to get the most out of their time on the mountain. And snowboard size can make all the difference between an exhilarating experience and a disastrous one.

Years ago, the rule of thumb was to pick a snowboard that measures up to your Adam’s apple. While this may have been true 20 years ago, today’s snowboarders are taking that commonly held wisdom and turning it on its head. But does height really matter? What else should you consider when choosing the perfect board? Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors and see how they determine what size board is best for you.

How A Rider’s Height Affects Snowboard Size Selection

Besides these essential factors, height plays a crucial role when selecting a snowboard size because it affects balance and control. When you’re snowboarding, you want to be able to control your board and have an equal distribution of weight on both feet.

Since taller people tend to have more leverage and a wider stance, they need a slightly longer board to prevent the nose from tipping up when making turns. It’s not just about being able to stand but also about being able to ride comfortably without losing control.

Similarly, shorter people need shorter boards to get their weight over the edges more easily and quickly maneuver through tight turns and switchbacks while keeping their balance intact.

Chart: Snowboard Size Chart By Height

The following chart shows the average snowboard size for each height. It’s meant to be a general guideline because everyone’s body is different. Before buying, consider other factors, such as the rider’s weight and riding style, and choose a new board accordingly.

Does Weight Play a Role in Determining Snowboard Size?

Yes, body weight is one of the important factors to consider when determining the sight size snowboard. Rider weight affects the amount of pressure applied to the snowboard and its ability to flex and carve. A board that is too small for a heavier rider can cause instability and loss of control, while a board that is too big for a lighter rider can be difficult to maneuver and control. While riders of average weight have more choices, weight range still is an important aspect in getting the right size board for you.

Generally, light riders should ride boards that are shorter in length and width. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If you are an experienced rider who is looking for more stability or control, you might want to consider a slightly large and wide board than usual. This will help to give you more control over the board and enable you to carve turns with greater ease. If you are a beginner or intermediate rider, however, it is best to choose a board that is slightly shorter than average in length and width so that it will be easier for you to maneuver.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Snowboard

Different types of snowboards

There are different types of snowboards available on the market, so you can easily choose one according to your riding style. Some most popular ones include:

Freestyle Snowboards: These boards are designed for freestyle riders who want to do tricks and jibs. They typically feature an asymmetrical or a true twin shape and have a softer flex. Freestyle boards are great for park riders who want to do tricks like wall rides, but they can also be used on the slopes and in powder as well.

All-Mountain Snowboards: As the name implies, all-mountain boards are designed for riders who want to ride all over the mountain. They’re meant for doing everything from hitting kickers and rails to cruising down groomed runs. They have a wide range of flex, so they’re stable at high speeds but still have enough flexibility to maneuver through tight trees or around obstacles on the trail.

Powder Snowboards: These snowboards are designed to be ridden in deep snow. They can handle steep terrain better than other boards because they’re wider and have a tapered tip and tail. You can also attach binding inserts to these boards for better floatation and steering. These snowboards also feature a generous rocker which makes it easy to pivot while on the snow. The only problem with these boards is that they don’t perform well on groomed runs or hardpack conditions.

For a deeper dive into snowboard types, check out our post Different Types of Snowboards: The Ultimate Guide for 2023.

Different Shapes of Snowboards

Different shapes have different characteristics, so it’s important to choose one that works best for your riding style. If you like riding fast down groomed runs, then a directional twin shape is probably your best bet. The directional twin shape is fast and stable, making it great for cruising groomed runs or ripping through powder.

On the other hand, if you plan on traveling to the backcountry and hitting up some powder runs, then a volume shifted shape with rocker is probably a better choice. This type of board is designed with a reduced contact point and more tail, which makes it easier to float through powder.

Flex Rating

Flex refers to the stiffness of a snowboard’s core, which makes up most of the board’s weight and strength. A soft flex is more forgiving and can bend easily under pressure, allowing for better control over smaller bumps and harder turns. A stiffer flex provides better edge hold and requires more effort to bend — resulting in more stability — but also reduces maneuverability in tight spaces or on steep terrain.

If you’re just starting out and don’t have much experience riding down hills, opt for a softer board (easier turn radius) so that it will be easier to control while learning new skills like turning or carving (when leaning into the hillside). As your skills improve over time and you become a more advanced rider, consider upgrading to a stiffer board.

Wrapping it Up

In conclusion, we can say that while height is the most important thing in determining the right snowboard size, it is not the only factor. You should also consider your weight, regular stance, and riding style. You should also consider how you like to ride, whether it is freestyle or freeriding. Once you’ve used this guide to narrow your choices, determine the length of your board that works. The best part comes last when you get that new snowboard in your hands and on the mountain. You’ll immediately notice a difference in control, making every right a perfect ride.

Happy shredding!