Snowboarding is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors, get an adrenaline rush and work out at the same time. When most people are hunkering down for the colder months, snowboarders are suiting up and braving the elements in pursuit of any slope, whether it be fresh powder or crisp groomers.
Choosing the right gift for a snowboarder can be a challenge, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry. If you’re in the market for a high-end gift that packs a serious punch, check out the Ortovox Free Rider Backpack.
Although the market is flooded with countless single use products, aim to get a gift that will serve multiple purposes. The more gear you carry, the less overall mobility you will have, which can make riding more tiring and less enjoyable. Products that are multipurpose and thoughtfully designed to take up minimal space are ideal.
Any rider will tell you that the chairlift line is just a snowboarder's version of the catwalk, and no one wants to stick out for the wrong reasons. Before buying the snowboarder in your life a gift, especially if it’s apparel, try to get a sense of what their general snowboarding style is. Make sure to match colors if possible.
There’s nothing worse than saying goodbye to a worn-out piece of gear that served you for multiple seasons. Snowboarders develop an attachment to their equipment, and high quality gifts will stand the test of time. Look for materials like leather or memory foam that will wear well and become more comfortable over time.
Snowboarders rely on the environment to produce the perfect skiing conditions, and high quality gifts will respectfully reflect this in their design and manufacturing process. Keep an eye out for products made with recycled materials and that bear fair trade and manufacturing certifications.
While snowboarding is one of the best ways to enjoy all that winter has to offer, adverse weather and poor visibility can increase the risk levels at a moment's notice. Great snowboard gifts are not only useful, but also help protect the rider at all times. Be on the lookout for bags and clothing that include Recco reflectors, hydration packs or motorcycle-grade back protectors.
Affordable but useful snowboard gifts cost around $15, while higher-end options may cost upwards of $150.
A. In most cases, products that both sports use but are marketed to only one have little or no functional difference. Of course, there is an obvious difference between ski boots and snowboard boots but not so much when it comes to ski and snowboarding jackets. The same is true for things like helmets, gloves, pants and even goggles.
A. If you’re not a snowboarder yourself, finding the right gift can be a real challenge. Thankfully, there are lots of products that have universal functionality. If you’re not sure that your gift is going to be practical, consider looking at essential items like hand warmers, boot bags and goggle cases.
What you need to know: If there was ever a backpack designed for snowboarding, this is it; the Ortovox Free Rider has more functionality and safety features than any rider could imagine.
What you’ll love: Designed to fit flat against the back, this pack has an ergonomic design and numerous adjustability points that allow the rider to create a custom fit. In addition, this backpack is completely carbon neutral, made from recycled polyamide and is manufactured under fair working conditions, making it ideal for the eco-minded snowboarder. Plus, it comes in multiple sizes and has attachments for everything from your board and snowshoes to a signal whistle and hydration pack.
What you should consider: This backpack is pricey compared to simpler alternatives.
Where to buy: Sold by Backcountry
What you need to know: Stomp pads are an affordable tool that snowboarders of all skill levels appreciate, and the Ninja studs offer premium performance without breaking the bank.
What you’ll love: With 10 individual aluminium studs, each a robust 3D design, the Ninja stomp pad allows the rider to create a custom grip configuration. Not only are there multiple colors to choose from, but you can also customize the shape to fit your boot. What’s more, RaceWax offers three and four pronged stars, as well as a pyramid design for deep snow.
What you should consider: Because this stomp pad is made of individual studs, it will take longer to install than all-in-one stick-ons.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Smith Optics Outdoor Tech Wireless Audio Chips
What you need to know: Give the gift of music, as well as on-mountain safety, with these integrable wireless headphones.
What you’ll love: Featuring the latest in Smith’s chipset technology, these headphones can be used in almost any helmet to play music and answer calls. With voice control technology, the user can easily switch songs, pick up the phone and answer texts without ever having to take their gloves or mittens off. Plus, if it’s too blustery to use voice control, these headphones include Smith’s patented glove and mitten-friendly buttons. To top it all off, you can get a full 2 days of riding in on a single charge.
What you should consider: Compatible earmuffs must be purchased separately.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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William Briskin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
