To understand what a snowboard is, it is necessary to study the principles and features of this winter sport (snowboarding). In addition, a better understanding of the nuances of riding will allow knowledge of the device and the design of the board. In this area, various devices are used that differ in purpose, size, composition and some other characteristics. Let's try to understand this issue in more detail.
general information
How to understand what snowboards are? They are divided into soft and hard models. The second option is focused on downhill skiing, used mainly by professionals. The second name is “carving” (from a peculiar riding style). Boards of this type require the use of special equipment, special ammunition and suitable tracks.
Such modifications are practically not used among amateurs. In ski resorts it is difficult to find a coach for the specified skiing style. Of broader interest are soft versions. We will dwell on their capabilities and characteristics in more detail.
Structural elements
The details below have any snowboard. What are these components, we will consider in more detail below. List of items:
- the upper decorative part of the board, on which the clips are attached;
- edgings, which are skids made of metal, located on the edges of the device, they are quite sharp, during installation should be careful;
- the sliding part, which during operation is in direct contact with snow;
- a core located between the upper part and the sliding surface ("slippery").
Varieties
To understand which snowboard to choose, you need to know that they are of two types: “sandwich” and “cap”. In the first case, the structure of the board consists of several layers interconnected in a composing manner. The layout provides for separate side walls. These modifications are more popular among users.
In the second embodiment, the top cover for decorative purposes masks all other elements, and the sliding surface is already attached to it. Such boards have less weight and cost, but they are more difficult to repair and not as durable as sandwiches.
Some manufacturers are trying to combine both varieties. This is due to the fact that they are trying to find the optimal value, combining the advantages of the two variations and minimizing their disadvantages.
A decorative coating is usually made of polyethylene, after which it is decorated in different ways. Many companies have recently preferred minimalism, which indicates a minimal dissemination of paintwork. It looks quite worthy and attractive. Some boards are made with a practically transparent top coating, which allows the rider to consider the core design. In general, the design of the device depends on the imagination of the developers.
Core
One of the most important parts of children’s, women’s and men’s snowboards is the core. This part is made of wood, plastic or a combination of options. Modifications with the first material cover a wide price range, depending on the type of wood used. Most often, manufacturers combine coniferous and deciduous species in the design, taking into account the different directions of the fibers, as well as the location of the laminate along and across. Multilayer cores proved to be good, allowing you to take the best parameters from different varieties of trees.
A plastic board is much cheaper, but its quality leaves much to be desired. Such products do not differ in strength and speed characteristics. Experts do not recommend purchasing such modifications, and they can be found less and less on the market.
Features to consider when choosing
The weight of a snowboard directly depends on the type of core. For example, combined elements are composed of composite materials. They may include fiberglass braid, which gives additional rigidity to the projectile, while at the same time making it stronger and extending the working life.
There are three main types of braids:
- Biaxical option with a pair of directions at right angles.
- Triaxial version at an angle of 60 degrees.
- Quadraxial model with four vectors at an angle of 45 degrees.
In addition, carbon fiber or aluminum inserts are used in this part of the design. They reinforce the loading parts of the board. It is worth noting that the number, layers, quality and type of materials used to create the snowboard directly affect its final cost.
An important role in choosing a board for skiing on snowy slopes is played by the rigidity of the device. This parameter is subdivided according to two criteria: longitudinal characteristic along the length of the product and torsion check for twisting.
Both of these parameters significantly affect the behavior of the snowboard. The prerequisite is noted, the stiffer the structure, the faster the reaction of the board to the actions of the rider and the more difficult the control. Beginners and amateurs are advised to buy soft-type models that are easier to manage.
Mount
Most often, the manufacturer notes the stiffness index in the form of a certain figure. Moreover, each manufacturer has its own gradation, which is not very convenient. For example, products from the American company Bozwreck are labeled on a one to five basis, and most competitors use a ten-point scale.
As for the fastening, it should be noted that in the core there are embedded elements, which are threaded holes into which the fixing bolts are screwed. The most commonly used formula is 2/4 or 4/4. Such schemes allow you to organize 8-16 holes on the nose and tail of the board. Each lock is serviced by four bolts.
But there are exceptions. Burton snowboards are custom designed. As embedded elements, special 3D and Infinite Channel systems are used. In the first embodiment, not four, but three bolts are used. In the second case, a special channel is used, which serves for mounting a pair of embedded parts into which two screws are screwed. The disadvantage of this design is the fact that when buying a board from the specified manufacturer, you will definitely need to purchase the appropriate fasteners.
Edging and sliding surface
With edging, it seems, nothing complicated. This ordinary, at first glance, steel strip, was created taking into account the best developments to ensure maximum resistance to wear and corrosion.
During operation, this element becomes dull, requires regular sharpening. The injection treatment depends on the manner of riding. New boards are equipped with factory sharpened edges. By trial and error, if the existing parameter is not suitable, they select the desired angle independently or with the help of specialists.
The last element to understand what a snowboard is is a sliding surface, which also requires constant care. It is impregnated with paraffin to prevent drying out and provide better glide. “Slides” are divided into two groups: extrusive and sintered variants. In the first case, polyethylene rolled on both sides is used. Such a structure does not differ in good strength, but it is cheaper in price and unpretentious in maintenance. The sintered version involves the appropriate treatment of the powdery substance. The technology is quite complex and expensive, but the boards are stronger and show better results on steep slopes. Moreover, the surface requires regular treatment with paraffin. Some manufacturers add graphite to improve slip parameters.
Snowboard Jumpsuit
In addition to the main element - snowboarding boards, the athlete's equipment plays a large role. The rider's clothes should keep dry and warm, not restrict movement and look beautiful externally. The materials used are nylon or polyester. They can be of various thicknesses, however, they reliably protect from moisture.
More expensive versions include microfiber made from the highest quality fibers. This element allows you to improve the quality of clothing and extend its working life.
How to choose a snowboard by height and weight?
To find out your size, just put the board vertically in front of you. If the edge of the snowboard reaches the lips or the tip of the nose - everything is in order. This method has a small error, depending on the individual characteristics of the athlete. A more accurate option is to take into account weight, height and riding style.
Two formulas are used to select a board by height and weight. For men: 0.3 x weight + 136, for ladies: 0.4 x weight + 127. It is worth noting that the less the person’s weight, the shorter the board is needed. Good luck to everyone!