[New Rider?]

Just now, Deuxdiesel said:

That is me- I bet you are correct, it is likely a 163.  Way too stiff for a 130 lb rider.  The Elan 157 Ballistic was what my 130 lb wife used.  Actually, I'd really like to hear more about the skill level and experience of Aquarifaeri.  Lots of recommendations for equipment here without knowing all the facts.  What I can tell you is that my wife rode race boards and hard boots for 20 years and can lay down a pencil line in the snow as well as anyone, and now does the same on freeride boards with (stiff) softies.  It's all about the driver.  

My experience: 

I've been snowboarding on soft boots since around 12 years old. I would only go two or three times per season while first learning. I lived on the South Coast of MA so didn't have a lot of close access. I started going more consistently in my early twenties, by that time I was already intermediate/advanced. I'm in my mid-thirties now. I was never a park rider, I really enjoyed groomers and glades. I have had the same v-rocker board since 2010. I'm not an expert rider by any means, but ride mostly blue and single diamonds. I hope that's helpful!

[New Rider?]

Wow, first of all - I want to thank everyone for taking the time to provide really thoughtful and detailed feedback in comments and messages. I came here not really expecting too much, but I am overwhelmed by the generosity! (I live in Boston, that should be explanation enough haha)

I have read all of the posts, and I am starting a list of things to be mindful of as I begin this new and exciting journey. I am really in no rush, and I want to do this right. I hope one day we will cross paths on the mountain and I can say thank you in person! I will keep updating on my progress and will be asking lots of questions over the next few years. Thanks again!! 

-Brianna

[New Rider?]

18 hours ago, Jack M said:

I strongly disagree with the (well intended) softboot comments. If someone wants to try hardboots, they should. Here is an athlete I am coaching. She is 16, about 120, 5’1”, riding UPZ RC11s, F2 Race Titanium’s, and a Kessler 150. (She uses an F2 WC 169 for GS) This is her 2nd season in hardboots. At the time this was taken, conditions were pretty mediocre.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CKY426SD2Qi/?igshid=1475o7eaaeop9

I just followed you on IG, I hope that's okay! 

[New Rider?]

On 2/15/2021 at 6:22 AM, Deuxdiesel said:

Counter-opinion here;  Have you thought about trying a directional freecarve board with soft boots and stiffer bindings?  I have been so impressed with my Nidecker Concept, Nitro Pantera and Coiler BX boards with Flow NX2 bindings that I haven't reached for my race board yet this season.  My wife is in the mind set as me.  I give up about 10-20% carving performance, but gain a ton of versality and comfort.  Something to consider as a transition at least.  

I have considered it, I have been flirting with the idea of hard boots for over 7 years and I hate living a life with any regret.

[New Rider?]

So it seems like I am going to have to order online. As I am starting out, will I want to get boots that are more stiff or have more flex? I'm not sure if those two are interchangeable, but I have been seeing both of those words. I have looked at both Deluxe and UPZ, not exactly sure which one to choose - other than going on price? 

Thanks everyone for your input so far! 

[New Rider?]

Thank you! 

[New Rider?]

Hey everyone! 

I've been interested in alpine snowboarding for some years now, I have been on a regular board for over twenty years. My equipment is starting to go and I feel like now is a good time to start considering making the switch. I'm located in Boston and have no idea what to do in regards to equipment/brands/what to looks for/what to avoid. Any guidance is much appreciated!

 

****EDIT**** I'm 5'3" (160.02 cm) and 130 lbs (58.967kg) and shoe size 6 (37 EU). 

Best,

Brianna