Burton Snowboard Buying Guide

Snowboarding is an amazing winter sport, and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. However, selecting the right snowboard for your needs can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the sport. There are many different brands, sizes, shapes, and features to consider when choosing a snowboard. Burton is one of the most popular and highly respected snowboard brands, and they offer a wide range of products that cater to riders of all styles and abilities. In this Burton snowboard buying guide, we will help you navigate the various options available and choose the perfect board for your needs.

1. Determine Your Riding Style

The first step in choosing a Burton snowboard is to determine your riding style. There are three main styles of snowboarding:

• All Mountain: These boards are designed to handle a variety of terrain and conditions, including groomed runs, powder, and even some freestyle features. All mountain boards are versatile and great for beginners or intermediate riders.
• Park/Freestyle: These boards are designed specifically for riders who enjoy jumps, rails, and other freestyle features in the terrain park. They are generally a bit shorter and more flexible than other boards.
• Freeride: These are the boards designed for advanced riders who like to ride off-piste in deep powder, big lines, or steep terrain. They are generally longer, stiffer, and wider than all-mountain or park boards.

Once you have determined your riding style, you can narrow down your search to the appropriate category of Burton Snowboards.

2. Choose the Right Board Size

The next step is to select the right board size. The size of your snowboard depends on your weight, height, and skill level. A board that is too short will be unstable at high speeds, while a board that is too long will be difficult to maneuver. Burton provides a size chart on their website that can help you select the right board size based on your height and weight.

If you are a beginner, it is generally recommended to choose a snowboard that is shorter than your height. This will make it easier for you to turn and control the board. Intermediate and advanced riders may prefer a board that is closer to their height for greater stability and better performance at high speeds.

3. Determine the Board Shape

The shape of the board also plays a significant role in how it performs on the slopes. Burton offers several distinct board shapes to cater to different riding styles and conditions.

• Directional: These boards have a slightly longer nose and a shorter tail, making them ideal for riding in one direction (downhill) and floating on powder. This shape is typically used on all-mountain and freeride boards.
• Twin: These boards are perfectly symmetrical, with the same shape and flex pattern from nose to tail. They are ideal for freestyle and park riding, where you need to ride in both directions.
• Directional Twin: These boards are a combination of the directional and twin shapes, with a slightly longer nose and shorter tail than the twin shape. It is a versatile board for those who want to ride the entire mountain with a focus on freestyle.

4. Determine the Flex and Camber Type

The flex and camber type of a snowboard determine how it transfers energy from the rider to the board.

• Flex: The amount of give in the board from tip to tail. A softer flex is ideal for beginners or freestyle riders, while a stiffer flex is better for advanced riders who want to ride at high speeds.
• Camber: The shape of the base of the board when pressed on the ground. Burton offers several different camber types:
• Traditional Camber: The base of the board is arched upwards in the middle, with the contact points at the nose and tail. This provides excellent edge control, pop, and stability at high speeds.
• Flat Top: The board is flat between the feet, with rocker at the nose and tail. This provides a more forgiving ride and better float in powder.
• Rocker: The board is arched upwards at the nose and tail, with a flat base between the feet. This provides a more playful ride and easier turn initiation.
• Hybrid: The board is a combination of traditional camber and rocker, providing the benefits of both camber types.

5. Consider Additional Features

Burton offers several additional features that can enhance your snowboarding experience:

• Base Material: The material used on the base of the board can affect its speed and durability. Burton offers several base material options, including sintered and extruded.
• Sidewalls: The sidewall of the board can affect its durability and impact resistance. Burton offers several sidewall options, including full ABS, tapered, and tapered pro.
• Bindings-Compatible: Burton boards are designed to be compatible with Burton bindings, although they are also compatible with many other brands of bindings.
• Action Sports Control System: Burton offers a unique control system that combines the bindings and board into one integrated unit for better energy transfer and response.
• Grip-Tech Edges: Burton boards feature edges with multiple contact points for better grip and control on hardpack and icy conditions.
• The Channel System: Burton offers a unique channel system that allows for infinite stance options and easier adjustment of bindings.

6. Choose the Right Graphics

Finally, don't forget to choose a Burton snowboard with graphics and colors that reflect your personality and style. Burton offers a wide range of options, from simple and classic designs to bold and unique prints.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Burton snowboard can be a challenging task, but it is an important investment that can enhance your snowboarding experience. By considering your riding style, board size, shape, flex and camber type, and additional features, you can choose a Burton snowboard that is ideal for your needs and skill level. And, of course, don't forget to select a board with graphics and colors that reflect your personal style and attitude.