Buying Guides

Sizing your Board

The first thing you should know is that a longer board gives more surface area which provides greater stability and speed, while helps keeping the board from sinking into deep powder like a snowshoe. A shorter board, however, is that it is more maneuverable for tricks and jibing. A recent survey showed pro riders revealed that on average they rode boards that are 88% - 91% of their height. A suggested formula is: Rider Height (inches) x 2.54 x 0.88 = Suggested Board Length (cm). This formula is based on height, it is important to consider an individuals weight. Lighter people will use a smaller board while a heavier person needs a longer board. Although, it is this is just a suggestion, it is generally accepted that beginners, lighter, and shorter riders use a smaller board to improve handling and control and their not likely to have the center of gravity and weight benefits. Choosing the length of a board is also dependant on riding style and athleticism; a stronger rider will likely be able to turn easier than someone who is not athletic, or not aggressive in their ride. Another factor that can determine size is terrain; a small mountain with hard snow will possibly require a shorter board than usual. On the other hand, if a rider is always in the deep powder, he/she may wish to increase the length. The last variable is the type of board; a Freestyle board is generally shorter than its Freeride/All-Mountain counterpart.

So, with all these variables and suggestions aside, what do we consider the "basic" sizing recommendations, based on rider height alone?

*This sizing chart is provided as a general reference. There are many factors involved when sizing poles, and you should adjust according to these factors and to personal preference.