Slide Down the Slopes in Style: A Guide to Choosing Snowboards for Women

burton snowboard

From unexplored peaks to chasing lines or floating through deep powder, cruising down the mountains is an exhilarating sport. But, what makes a difference between a good and a fantastic day on the slopes is the right snowboard. For women, selecting a snowboard that aligns with their skills, style, and physique is crucial for maximising performance and enjoyment. This guide is designed to walk you through the key considerations and help you find the perfect snowboard tailored to your needs.

Types of Snowboards

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Before getting into the features of snowboards for women, we’ll quickly go through the different types:

  • All-Mountain: These are versatile boards that perform well in a variety of conditions and terrains. They are a good choice if you like to explore everything from groomed runs to off-piste.
  • Freestyle: Lighter and shorter, these boards are designed for park and pipe riding. They often feature a symmetrical shape and a softer flex.
  • Freeride: These boards are typically longer and are designed for speed and stability. They work well for off-trail and deep powder conditions.
  • Powder: Specialised for deep snow, these boards usually have a wider nose and a tapered narrower tail to help the board float better in powder.

Why Snowboards for Women?

Snowboards are designed for specific terrains and snow conditions. Additionally, snowboards for women are tailored to their needs in terms of weight, height, and strength. Burton Snowboards, a pioneer in the snowboarding industry since 1977, are especially known for their commitment to crafting high-quality snowboarding equipment tailored specifically for women, which makes them a standout choice for female riders of all skill levels. Here are some key reasons why deciding to buy a Burton women’s snowboard can enhance your snowboarding experience.

Engineered for Women

Burton women’s boards typically feature a softer flex and are lighter, making them easier to manoeuvre. This thoughtful engineering helps optimise performance and comfort, ensuring a better fit and an improved riding experience.

Innovative Technology

Burton’s commitment to innovation is evident in their use of cutting-edge technology. For example, their Frostbite Edges, designed to offer incredible edge-hold on icy and hardpack conditions, and their Flying V and Camber profiles, which provide a balance of playfulness and precision, demonstrate their dedication to advancing the sport.

Variety of Options

No matter what your riding style or level of experience may be, Burton offers a board that fits. From all-mountain and freestyle to powder and park-specific designs, there is a diverse array of options to cater to any rider’s needs.

What to Consider When Buying a Woman’s Snowboard?

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Skill Level and Riding Style

The choice of snowboard greatly depends on your skill level and the style of riding you prefer. Beginners should look for a board that’s easy to manoeuvre. A softer flex and a flat or rocker profile can offer better balance and forgiveness in turns. Intermediate riders might look for something that offers a bit more stability and speed, perhaps with a medium flex. Advanced riders can opt for boards that are more responsive and offer precise control, usually having a stiffer flex and often featuring camber or hybrid profiles.

Size and Shape

The right size of your snowboard affects your ability to control the board effectively, so focus on:

  • Length: A general rule is to choose a board that reaches somewhere between your chin and nose when standing upright. However, weight is also a critical factor. Most brands provide a weight range for each board size they offer.
  • Width: The width of the board should be enough to prevent your feet from hanging over the edge too much, which can lead to drag and loss of control. Your boot size will influence the width of your board.
  • Shape: Snowboards come in directional (meant to be ridden mostly in one direction), true twin (symmetrical, great for freestyle), or directional twin (a mix, versatile for all kinds of riding) shape.

Flex

The flex of a snowboard describes how flexible it is when you apply pressure. Women’s snowboards typically have a softer flex than men’s boards, as women, on average, weigh less and have less muscle mass. As such, you can choose from:

  • Softer Flex: Better for beginners, smaller riders, or those who prefer a playful, easy-to-handle board.
  • Medium Flex: Offers a balance of control and flexibility, suitable for various terrains.
  • Stiff Flex: Best for high speeds and precise turns, ideal for advanced riders tackling steep, icy conditions.

Camber and Rocker

The profile of the snowboard affects how it interacts with the snow. Select from:

  • Camber: Arches upward in the middle and touches down near the ends. Provides more precise edge control and rebound, good for groomed runs and hardpack.
  • Rocker: Curves up slightly at both ends, making it easier to turn and better for powder.
  • Flat: Sits flat on the snow; provides a balance between camber and rocker.
  • Hybrid: Combines elements of both camber and rocker, offering versatility.

Latest Models of Burton Women’s Snowboards

Updated with the latest advancements in snowboard technology, here are some of the latest models from Burton female snowboard range for the current season.

Burton Feelgood

A staple in the Burton women’s snowboard lineup, the Feelgood is known for its versatility and reliability on all parts of the mountain. It features a camber profile which gives riders more control and precision, making it perfect for those looking to improve their skills across varied terrain. The 2024 model incorporates Carbon Highlights, reducing overall weight and enhancing responsiveness.

Burton Yeasayer

An all-mountain board that’s all about fun and accessibility, the Yeasayer is a favourite for its forgiving feel and flexible setup. Its Flat Top™ bend provides stability and balance, which is perfect for both new riders and those looking to experiment with new styles and stunts. The latest model includes an updated core that uses sustainably sourced woods, ensuring lighter weight and improved performance.

Burton Story Board

Designed specifically for powder, the Story Board excels in deep snow and offers superior float. Its directional shape and increased taper make it easy to manoeuvre in tight spots, while the Directional Camber provides the lift needed in powder. The latest iteration features an enhanced core and Carbon I-Beam technology, improving pop and reducing torsional flex.

Burton Talent Scout

The Talent Scout is geared towards park and freestyle riders. It comes with an aggressive camber profile for precise control and powerful turns. Edgy graphics and a performance-driven design make it a standout board for riders looking to make an impact in the park. 

The 2024 model also features an upgraded sintered base for better durability and speed. Remember, the right snowboard, boots, and clothes will not only improve your performance but also enhance your entire snowboarding experience, making every moment on the slopes even more enjoyable.