Once you start getting the hang of snowboarding and realize how fun it is, you’ll probably think, “I want my own board!”
Not only does riding on a board with a design you love boost your motivation, but choosing the right length, stiffness, and shape also plays a huge role in helping you improve.
The challenge is, when you walk into a sports shop, there are so many brands and models that it’s hard to know which one is right for you.
That’s why, as active A-level instructors, we’ve handpicked snowboards that we genuinely recommend for beginners. We’ll also explain key points to look for when choosing a board, and the characteristics of different types—so you can find your one special board.
Having your own board that you’ve carefully chosen makes every trip to the slopes so much more exciting! You’ll definitely find snowboarding even more fun.
Key Points Beginners Should Look At When Choosing a Snowboard
Before introducing the brands and boards we recommend, let’s quickly cover the main points to focus on when choosing your first snowboard.
Snowboard Length
The length of the board has a big effect on how easy it is to handle. The standard guideline is about your height minus 15 cm.
When stood upright, the tip of the board should reach somewhere between your chin and nose.
Shorter boards are easier to control, especially for beginners.
Taller riders might choose slightly shorter boards, while shorter riders might go a little longer.
Snowboard Width
Width isn’t usually a dealbreaker, but pay attention if you have unusually large or small feet.
If your boots stick out too much, they’ll catch on the snow.
If they’re too small compared to the board, you’ll have trouble controlling it.
As a rule of thumb, the board’s waist width should be roughly 1 cm less than your boot size.
Board Shape (Top View)
Twin Tip
Directional
Directional Twin
For beginners, Directional or Twin Tip boards are best.
Directional boards have a longer nose than tail, making them stable and less likely to sink in the snow.
If you’re still unsure whether you ride regular or goofy stance, a Twin Tip is easier to experiment with both.
Board Profile (Side View)
Camber
Rocker
Flat
W Camber
For beginners, Camber is recommended.
Rocker boards are less likely to catch edges, but they spin too easily, making turn practice harder.
Camber boards help you build solid fundamentals.
Board Flex (Stiffness)
Always go for a softer board as a beginner.
Softer boards are easier to control, less tiring, and make learning turns smoother.
As you progress, you might switch to stiffer boards for stability at high speeds.
If you plan to do freestyle tricks, staying with a soft board is ideal.
Board Weight
Light boards are easier for beginners to handle. They’re especially friendly for women or riders with less leg strength.
Heavy boards can tire you out when riding lifts (since you support the board with one foot).
Board Design
Honestly, beginners should feel free to choose based on design.
If you love the way your board looks, you’ll naturally want to ride more often—and that motivation is priceless.
Remember: the base design (underside) is often more visible than the topsheet, so check both sides when choosing.
Beginner-Friendly Snowboard Brands & Models We Recommend
Now that you know what to look for, here are the five brands we most recommend for beginners:
YONEX
NOVEMBER
MOSS
SALOMON
BURTON
Let’s break them down.
YONEX
A top Japanese brand and one of our strongest recommendations. As instructors, we always keep at least one YONEX board in our quiver.
High rebound and durability.
Excellent quality bases that glide well with proper maintenance.
Reasonably priced for the quality.
Recommended Models:
SMOOTH — Flexible yet powerful rebound. Great for men or anyone who wants a versatile board that grows with their skills.
NEXTAGE — Lightweight, forgiving, and easy to handle. Perfect for women or riders with less leg strength.
NOVEMBER
Created in 2002 by OGASAKA FACTORY, which has over 100 years of ski-making history. NOVEMBER boards are built for freestyle, with exceptional quality.
Recommended Model:
ARTIST — A true all-rounder that handles carving, park, and tricks. Soft, light, and beginner-friendly while still suitable for advanced riders.
MOSS
Another premium Japanese brand known for quality and innovation. MOSS boards are stable even at high speeds, and offer a wide lineup for all levels.
Recommended Models:
TOTO BLACK SF — Extremely light and soft, with excellent rebound. Great for beginners and freestyle riders.
EBIS — The softest MOSS all-round board. Easy to control, with many kids’ and women’s sizes available.
SALOMON
Founded in France in 1947, SALOMON is a global leader in mountain sports. They offer snowboards, boots, and apparel, making it easy to match your gear.
Recommended Models:
FRONTIER — Forgiving, stable, and perfect for beginners who want to progress into tricks.
PULSE — A freestyle-focused board that’s stable, durable, and beginner-friendly.
BURTON
Founded in 1977 in the U.S., BURTON is one of the biggest and most iconic snowboard brands in the world.
Trusted by pros and loved by beginners.
Wide range of models and sizes.
Stylish designs and matching apparel.
Recommended Model:
INSTIGATOR — A hybrid camber design that makes learning turns easy. Perfect for beginners but also versatile enough as you advance.
Conclusion
So, did you find a board that caught your eye?
Your first board is something you’ll always remember—so take your time choosing. Whether it’s design, weight, or flex, the most important thing is that you feel excited to ride it.
Once you have a board you love, you’ll enjoy the slopes even more!
And if you’re still unsure about board selection or want guidance on beginner practice methods, feel free to reach out.
We, Samurai Snow Concierge, are active A-level instructors based in Rusutsu, Hokkaido, specializing in private ski and snowboard lessons.
We’re always here to help beginners find the right gear and build confidence on the slopes. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’d love to support your snowboarding journey!
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