Absolutely clueless about snowboards...

[lilboo]

...my younger brother would like a snowboard for Christmas and I haven't a clue where to start and hoped someone here might have some answers.

What kind of price range am I looking at?
What're some of the companies...are they the same as ski manufacturers?
I know there are boots and bindings but maybe he'd have to get those on his own so that they fit???

And those are the only questions I know to ask!!!
Is there anything else I should know before I go? Thanks in advance.

 

[ByTheSea]

How old?

I don't know a lot, but DS is getting into it. We bought him a "starter" board at target last year (plastic) to try it out, for about $20.00. He took to it right away, but has only been on the local sledding hills so far. He is 8. He's getting a "real" board this year (was only about $40.00 plus a helmet for $20) still rather inexpensive and simple, no "bindings" just the kind you can use with his regular boots. I understand the boards should not be taller than chin high, and at the rate he is growing I really don't want to invest a ton of money. I think I need to learn more about it if he wants to continue.

 

[lilboo]

Hi ByTheSea!

Oh dear...he's quite a bit older than 8 -essentially adult-sized!

I imagine, as you said, that the boards themselves aren't that expensive and it's the bindings and boots that'll cost-??? Perhaps the bindings and board can be bought without the user...

 

[minniecarousel]

DS (age 20) just bought the board, bindings & boots for around $300. He says they're of a good quality. Should last him a few seasons. Your best bet is to give him a gift certificate to a ski store. That way he can get what he wants ($300 may be more than you want to spend!)