How to choose your splitboard in 2024
the complete guide
The splitboard is a revolution in the world of snow sports. Thanks to it, you no longer need to limit yourself to marked slopes and snow parks. Splitboards will take you everywhere. But before choosing your splitboard, do you know what it is and what it will allow you to do?
WHAT IS A SPLITBOARD?
The splitboard is, as its name suggests, a board that separates into two parts (or more). This board therefore allows you to go down on a snowboard and go up on a ski touring ski. Indeed, the board separates in two along its length, which allows it to be transformed into touring skis at will.
The days of snowshoeing to climb the mountain are over. Snowboarding friends, no need to burden yourself with excess equipment. Thanks to the very hybrid and compact format of the splitboard, you will be free as a bird during your descents.
As you will have understood, the splitboard is similar to a snowboard, however, you must take into account that you will also use it as touring skis. It is therefore essential to choose your splitboard carefully before setting off on an adventure. To do this, we will guide you step by step in choosing the splitboard that will revolutionize your outings.
What criteria should you take into account when choosing your splitboard?
Explanations and illustrations in videos
How many parts do you want to divide your splitboard into?
There are different splitboard systems. The splitboard can consist of between 2 and 4 parts. Mainly, splitboards split into two to offer the rider two fairly fat touring skis and the advantage of not having to carry anything extra in their touring bag. However, some splitboards can split into 3 or 4 parts to offer thinner and lighter touring skis. On the other hand, this takes up space in your backpack. Choosing your splitboard in 3 or 4 parts therefore means having an additional load on your shoulders during the climb.
At Stone Snowboards Canada, we mainly offer splitboards that can be separated into two parts, which will allow you to take full advantage of a lightweight bag.
What are your surfing habits?
As you will have understood, the splitboard is aimed at freeriders. Indeed, no need for a splitboard when you remain confined to the slopes and their surroundings. But, depending on your sliding habits, you will have to take into account the shape and camber of your board.
The shape (1) is the shape of your board. If it is symmetrical at the front and back, it means that it is a twin tip. Choosing your splitboard with a twin tip shape will give you great maneuverability and allow you to move in both directions. On the other hand, choosing your splitboard with a directional shape means that its tip is different from the tail. This type of board is more intended for downhill riding, because it offers better grip and great stability at high speed.
The camber (2) of your board is the curvature of your splitboard. The most common camber, classic camber, is manifested by a slight separation between the center of the board and the ground. Unlike flat camber, which will make your board fully in contact with the ground. This type of camber makes backcountry tricks easier. Reverse camber, on the other hand, is manifested not by a separation of the board in its center, but on its ends. This type of camber is recommended if you mainly practice on powder. It will make it easier for you to progress on this type of snow.
Finally, the double camber is manifested by a slight separation at the level of the rider's feet. This camber allows better absorption of the ground's relief. But be careful, this type of camber is reserved for the most experienced riders, because the contact between the board and the track is reduced, so the grip on the track is less good.
As you will have understood, you must take into account your preferences in terms of shape and camber in order to choose a splitboard that corresponds to your level and your riding habits.
Choose a splitboard that fits your height, shoe size and weight
Once you have found the ideal board, the question of its size remains. To determine what size you should choose for your splitboard, you must take into account your height, your weight (with your equipment) and your shoe size.
Depending on your height, it is recommended to take a board that reaches your chin. To do this, remove 15 to 20 cm from your height and you will find the size of your board.
The rider's weight is also important when choosing your splitboard. But be careful, when you practice, you are equipped: outfit, shoes, bindings, bag and equipment are to be taken into account. And the heavier you are, the larger the size of your splitboard will be, and conversely, the lighter you are, the smaller the size of your splitboard will be. Thus, you will have to add or remove 2 to 3 cm to the size of the board already defined.
Finally, it is important to consider your shoe size when choosing your splitboard. In addition to determining the size of your bindings, it will determine the width of your splitboard. If you choose a splitboard that is too small for your shoe size, you risk catching your toes or heels in the snow when you take deep turns. Conversely, if the board is too big, you will lack maneuverability and will have difficulty controlling the transitions between turns.
Choosing the right size for a splitboard, like a snowboard, is essential, because it is what will give you the comfort of gliding, the maneuverability of the board and the balance when picking up speed.
At Stone Snowboards Canada, we help you choose your splitboard with our different pictograms and our size guide on each product sheet. And if you have any additional questions, you can contact us.
What accessories should I take with me on a splitboard outing?
Safety first! Go out equipped, it's the key to safety. When you go out freeriding, it is essential to have this equipment:
An Avalanche Victim Detector (DVA)
A shovel
A probe
A first aid kit (with a survival blanket)
A backpack (why not equipped with an airbag)
Seal skins
Telescopic poles
Sunscreen 50
Water
Cereal bars
Your bag is ready, your splitboard has just been delivered, it's finally time to go riding.
To equip yourself in just a few clicks, we have designed modular splitboard packs for you including a splitboard, bindings, seal skins and poles.
partners
