Over the years snowboards have become increasingly popular. Particularly compared to the traditional alpine sport, skiing. With that in mind we want to arm you with the ultimate list of 10 different snowboard accessories.

If you’ve bought your snowboard we appreciate you’ve probably spent a fair bit of money on purchasing it.

That being said, you probably want to maintain your snowboard and keep it in tip top shape. Whether that means safe storage, great protection or general maintenance of your board, we know it’s important to you.

Everything we’ve listed below should help fulfil this criteria. Making your life easier to not have to worry about your snowboard. Any products we link to it’s worth noting are from snowboard retailers listed in our Where to buy snowboards online article, if a retailer is good enough to provide snowboards, it’s plenty good enough to provide accessories that accompany them!

So that’s it, read away on our 10 Unique Snowboard Accessories You Need – Ultimate List!

Snowboard Bindings

Naturally the first item on our snowboard accessories list is had to be the precise mechanism needed to stand on your snowboard and be safety strapped into it, right?

Bindings are just as important as the board itself to be honest. They are the connection to the board and transfer your energy to it. Bindings help control the board and provide comfort and precision, a crucial component that can enhance your riding experience or ruin your day.

Luckily there are plenty of bindings on the market. Such as Blue Tomato who supply over 150 bindings to chose from!

Snowboard Bag

When transporting your snowboard from various countries and cities, you’ll want to protect it from any damages. Particularly given the high value of snowboards.

A well padded snowboard bag that has a snug fit and plenty of padding should be easily suitable for your needs.

However, a snowboard bag with wheels can make your life a lot easier when transporting. External and internal pockets can help pad your bag out for protection as well as provide extra storage for your requirements. A detachable shoulder bag also will make moving around a busy airport a breeze when too narrow to wheel around.

You can search for Snowboard bags here.

Snowboard Waxing Kit

This will form one of the main maintenance tasks of your snowboard. You can outsource this task or you can get your hands dirty and do this yourself.

Snowboard waxing kits will come in various forms – such as this Dakine kit. Or even this option from Toko that even features a Waxing Iron. However you’ll need the below items as a minimum. And you can take a look here with helpful links to some you may like.

• Wax
• Waxing Iron
• Scraper
• Brush
• Snowboard Waxing Cloth

Red Bull have put together a hand guide on how to re-wax your snowboard here.

Edging tool

Coming immediately after your waxing kit is another tool for snowboard maintenance. A snowboard edging tool.

Something like this from Toko at Blue Tomato should do the trick. Or even this one by Amplifi supplied on Absolute Snow.

Edging, similarly to waxing your snowboard requires precision. Therefore we’d advise reading up on the matter and watching a few videos. A good place to start is an article on by Whitelines Magazine, or this Youtube video by Nidecker Snowboards.

Stomp Pads

Snowboard stomp pads provide various benefits. From helping you keep control of your board when one, or even both boots can’t be clipped in, to helping you clean the snow off the sole of your boots before clipping back into your bindings.

There are plenty of stomp pads to choose from and another great way to express your personality on your board.

Take a look at snow the Blue Tomato have here.

Binding Tool & Spare Binding Screws

If you’re an avid snowboarder then one must have snowboard accessories is a set of binding tools. An all round and adjustable binding tool is a requirement for any snowboarder. Whether you’re renting or you’ve bought your board.

Additionally, you will want spare binding washers & crews in your snowboard accessory arsenal – just in case.

A great choice could be this pocket driver from Toko, or there are plenty on offer from Absolute Snow here.

Snowboard Lock

This may not be an a must have if you’re renting a snowboard. But if you’re protective of your board and visiting some of the busiest and best resorts around the world, you’ll want one. As believe it not or not but people can pick up the wrong snowboard. Particularly if they’ve enjoyed the aprés too much – I’m thinking in Val Thorens for example.. Or, if you’re snowboard is unique and worth quite a bit, then unfortunately it may get stolen.

Snowboard locks are inexpensive in comparison to your board, so it could be well worth the investment. The Dakine mico lock is a great choice.

Snowboard Mount / Snowboard Wall Hanger

An accessory which unlike all others on our snowboard accessories list you won’t take on holiday. A snowboard mount or snowboard wall hanger is primarily for storage at home and to keep you snowboard in tip top shape and not scratching, scraping or bumping the floor.

Burton have a pretty cool, easy to fit and subtle wall mounts that can you find at Absolute Snow here.

Outdoor Eliminating Spray

Not exactly part of your snowboard accessories requirements, however vital to keep your snowboard boots maintained.

Keeping your boots smelling relatively fresh is important, but also ensuring they dry out thorough each day is vitally important to maintain them and improve the longevity of your snowboard boots.

A boot freshener such as this one should be fine, or even snowboard boot bananas like these.

The majority of accommodation in ski resorts will have a snowboard and boot room to store your equipment. Nevertheless, if you can take your snowboard boots to your room and dry them out on a radiator this is highly recommended. Unless of course, you have a heated snowboard and boot room.

Snowboard Boot Carrier

Now there are two ways you can go about snowboard boot carriers. Either, a bag to carry your boots in, of which there are some here to chose from, which many of you will be more familiar with.

However, something a little more unique, yet perfectly suitable for snowboard boots and ski boots, is this little beauty from Demon. Really simple, but quite effective. A small handle with rope attached made for easy grip with/without gloves that fits easily through the snowboard or ski boot heel.

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If you’re visiting Europe to ski or snowboard and concerned about snow conditions and poor weather then you need to know what the highest ski resorts in Europe are to avoid that problem as best possible.

If you’ve made it this far you’re no doubt looking to know what the highest ski resorts are in Europe. The higher you are and further above the tree line the more likely you’ll be presented with exceptional views, beautiful mountains peaks and unique glacier skiing.

Without further ado, find Europe’s highest ski resorts below:

Val Thorens

Val Thorens in France is officially the highest ski resort in Europe, reaching a magnificent elevation of 3,230 meters (10,597 feet). The purpose built resort provides the ultimate location to explore the Three Valley ski resort in which it finds itself located. And the resort being situated at round 2,300m snow is almost expected here.

Numerous ski-in and ski-out accommodation make for easy access to the slopes to enjoy the day, and convenient when the day is over and its time to relax.

Val Thorens ski and snowboard can be found at Skiset.

Zermatt

Located in Switzerland, Zermatt reaches skiing heights that are almost unthinkable. In Zermatt you can ski at the summit which reaches 3,899 metres (12,795 feet), extraordinary. Found at the Klein Matterhorn Glacier here you will really be testing your limits.

Snow conditions in Zermatt and around the glacier and so good that you may even have the opportunity for summer skiing.

Cervinia

Italy’s highest resort Cervinia is nestled into the Aosta Valley. Reaching altitudes of 3,883 metrrs (12,740 feet) at the summit of the Piccolo Cervino (Little Matterhorn). The purpose built resort is ideal for reaching the great altitudes and the Cervinia resort sits at just over 2,000 metres.

Not forgetting Cervinia merges into Zermatt so you have easy access to glacier skiing at the Klein Matterhorn Glacier.

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl

Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is one of Austria’s highest ski resorts. Slopes here reach an altitude of 3,080 meters (10,105 feet) at the top of the Wurmkogl. The town of Hochgurgl finds itself sitting at over 2,000m so snow can be abundant here. Combine this with the wide selection of runs you’ll be kept busy skiing all morning and afternoon.

Solden

Another Austrian treat to experience the highest skiing in Europe is Solden. The ski resort of Solden doesn’t sit too high, only just under 1,400 metres. However, don’t let this fool you.

Reaching altitudes of 3340 metres above sea level and with two glacier ski mountains, reliable snow is to be expected from October through May. The ‘Big 3’ mountains of Gaislachkogl, Tiefenbachkogl and Schwarze Schneide make for an impressive background when skiing in one of Austria’s highest resort.

A unique experience for film fanatics as this is where the James Bond film ‘Spectre’ was filmed. Where you can visit the 007 ELEMENTS cinematic installation that finds itself at 3,050m on the Gaislachkogl mountain.

Tignes

France keeps providing some of the highest ski resorts in Europe. Tignes is not exception. Tignes sits at 2,100 metres, with the smaller resort in Tignes of Val Claret sitting even higher.

The piste reaches just under 3,500 metres at its peak, thanks to the Grande Motte glacier. Providing opportunities for summer skiing and excellent conditions throughout winter.

It’s worth mentioning that you can access Val d’Isère from Tignes. Which offers high altitude skiing via the Pisaillas glacier.

Val d’Isère

Another French resort that presents high altitude skiing in Europe. Val d’Isère sits slightly lower than neighbouring ski resort Tignes. However, with plenty of peaks at over 2,500 metres and glacier skiing at over 3,000 metres in the form of the Pisaillas glacier.

Val d’Isère and Tignes together form the impressive Espace Killy ski resort. Which offers over 300 km of piste to explore.

Verbier

Another options courtesy of Switzerland and the Swiss Alps. Verbier only sits at 1,500 metres but provides access to the Mont Fort Glacier that reaches an impressive altitude of 3,330 meters (10,926 feet).

Forming part of Four Valleys ski area, you have access to over 400km of slopes. However you’ll need to be quick if you need to get back to Verbier base.

Also a word of warning that Verbier isn’t the cheapest ski resort in Europe – so expect steep prices for accommodation, food and drink.

Saas-Fee

Saas-Fee in Switzerland provides another opportunity to ski at some of the tallest mountains in Europe. The resort has a high altitude of 1,800 metres (5,905 feet) to 3,600 metres (11,811 feet) above sea level. With the resort itself sitting at the base of 1,800 metres.

Saas-Grund, just further along the valley also provides easy access to Hohsaas that allows for skiing at 3,200 metres.

Courmayeur

Last but not least we’re mentioning the Italian ski resort of Courmayeur, based in the Aosta Valley. With snow covered runs reaching up to 2,755 metres, a car-free central village with many bars, restaurants and shops you’re sure enough to find something to do. Not forgetting the après-ski scene.

A resort perhaps not for beginners, but at least those with some confidence with most runs geared towards intermediate levels.

Highest ski resorts in Europe – Notable mentions

Aiguille du Midi (Chamonix) – 3842 metres

Les 2 Alpes – 3568 metres

Pitztal Glacier (Pitztaler Gletscher) – 3440 metres

Alpe d’Huez – 3330 metres

Sierra Nevada – Pradollano – 3282 metres

Hintertux Glacier (Hintertuxer Gletscher) – 3250 metres

Les Arcs/​Peisey-Vallandry (Paradiski) – 3226 metres

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For beginners, picking the right ski resort for you can be daunting. To help you make a more informed decision here are the most appropriate ski resorts for beginners.

When it comes to picking the best ski ski resort for beginners it comes down to a few things:

1. The size of the resorts beginner areas: By this we mean green and blue slopes where you can practise your turns and the piste isn’t too steep.
2. How popular is the resort: The less people on the slope the more you can concentrate on learning. Beginners are typically concerned with hitting other people, although this shouldn’t be a concern as they are more worried about you hitting them – it’s a concern nevertheless.
3. Other amenities on offer: If you’re learning to ski you will naturally be more tired than someone who can already ski or snowboard. You’ll be falling over more and thus more physically tired, but also concentrating and thus more mentally tired. So having the afternoon off with activities to take your mind off learning is only a plus.
4. Price: By price we mean there are a variety of things to consider. The overall price including lodging, food and drink for example. However, we do also recommend the lift pass. Lift passes for beginners mean you may be able to purchase a lift pass the provides access to part of the reason only – saving quite a bit. As you may not have the ability to explore areas far away, especially when you need to consider getting back to your main resort.

We assume that you will be learning with either an instructor, or extremely new to skiing or snowboarding and thus sticking to easier runs.

Now let’s take a look at what the best ski resorts for beginners are.

Alpe d’Huez

Alpe d’Huez in France is known for its wide and gentle slopes, making it an ideal destination for beginners. With some of the biggest beginner ski areas we’ve seen and plenty of blue and red runs to develop your skills on.

The resort has dedicated beginner areas, such as the Ecole du Ski Français (ESF) beginner zone, where new skiers can learn and practice in a safe environment.

Being such a large resort, beginners visiting Alpe d’Heuz with have plenty to do outside of skiing. There are plenty of wellness centres with swimming pools, a cinema, bars, restaurants, ice skating, snow mobiling and more.

Grandvalira

Beginners will be right at home in the Grandvalira ski area in Andorra. Although there are no green slopes which are directly aimed at beginners, the wide blue runs here make Grandvalira one of the best ski resorts for beginners around.

Historically Andorra was beginner friendly due to this, combined with the lower prices. Over time Andorra has slowly risen in price, but don’t let that put you off with wide slopes.

Pas de la Casa has plenty of other amenities to keep you entertained. Although, this resort is livelier than many of the others. For something slightly tamer in Andorra, beginners should head to Soldeu.

Beaver Creek

Colorado provides a beginner ski resort in the form of Beaver Creek. Over 150 km of ski runs in total and around 20% of those are easy runs, so plenty to explore and get learning on.

If you want the beginner runs at Beaver Creek then head to McCoy Park, almost entirely made up of easier green trails. This area is found at Bachelor Gulch, like many of the other beginner runs.

Borovets

Borovets in Bulgaria is not known as one of the largest ski resorts in Europe. However, the gentle slopes and affordable prices make it a popular choice.

The ski slopes in Borovets make it a suitable place for learning. The advanced slopes aren’t too difficult either if you want to test your nerve.

One downside is that slopes can become congested. But, advanced skiers and snowboarders will be looking out and avoid you respectfully.

Due to it’s prices, Borovets attracts the younger crowd. With aprés a firm favourite here with many drink offers, bars and clubs to keep you entertained. The main airport that services Borovets is the capital, Sofia. So you can even enjoy a day at the capital before you head home if you like.

Keystone

If you took a look at Keystone in Colorado, you’re eyes may be drawn to the significant black runs at the top of the mountain. However, avoid those.

What we’re looking at are the runs from Summit House and below. Copious amount of blue runs to explore and a dedicated family friendly section with the family ski trail. Here beginners have the opportunity to got at their very own pace and everyone else is encouraged to do so, respecting others on the slope.

The excellent ski schools really do help newcomers feel comfortable on the snow at Keystone.

Saalbach Hinterglemm

The Austrian offering of Saalbach Hinterglemm provides a beginner friendly ski resort, with a large number of easy and well-groomed slopes. With excellent ski schools and English-speaking instructors who specialise in teaching beginners this place is a sure winner.

140 km blue runs provide a great European ski resort for beginners. Not to mention the other activities on offer such as; Tandem paragliding; Snowtubing; Ice Skating; Indoor Tennis; Bars; Restaurants and of course the leisure centres.

Mount Snow

Vermont ski resort Mount Snow offers a welcoming atmosphere and beginner-friendly slopes. Although much smaller than some of these larger resorts, the vast majority of runs in Mount Snow are beginner friendly.

Just be sure to avoid the freestyle areas and black slopes, stick the blues and you’ll be fine.

Park City

Park City in Utah, being the size of resort it is – 250 km of slopes to explore. It no doubt has some easier runs and has to be on our list for beginner ski resorts.

Providing around twenty-seven trails to enjoy as beginner, there’s more than enough. Combined that with a ski instructor and you’ll no doubt improve your form and technique. A great beginner run is the Home Run run. At 3.5 miles, it’s one of the longest green trails in the state.

If you’re done for the day as beginner on the slopes, then you can take a look into Snow Biking, Tubing, Dog Sledding, Snowmobiling as well as plenty of bars, restaurants and wellness centres.

Sierra Nevada

If you’re left slightly confused the to confirm, we don’t mean the dessert in the USA. We mean in Southern Spain near Grenada. Sierra Nevada is a great option for beginners, with wide and gentle slopes suitable for learning.

The resort provides excellent ski schools and because of it’s location can often see warmer climates. Slushy slow may not be the best for skiing or snowboarding on. But, it does make for a good cushion if you’re falling over more often.

Niseko

We couldn’t not mention a resort in Japan. Niseko. Niseko is one of the most popular ski destinations in Asia, renowned for its consistent snowfall and excellent facilities – an ideal setting to make this one of the best ski resorts for beginners.

Niseko United offers a wide range of gentle slopes. There are more than enough beginner slops in Niseko to keep you happy. English-speaking ski schools are also available to cater to beginners of all ages.

Japan is also well known as having some of the best and softest snow. Perfect for if you’ve not got the balance just quite right yet as it will be as if you’re gliding on air.

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If the time is now for you to explore Serbia as a ski resort. Then we’ve got the best Serbia ski resorts below for you to explore on your next holiday.

Skiing in Serbia offers a unique and charming experience, with several ski resorts scattered throughout the country.

Although not as well-known as some of the larger Alpine destinations like France, Italy, Switzerland and Austria for example, Serbia’s ski areas provide a range of slopes, welcoming atmosphere and great value for money.

ski season in Serbia generally runs from December to April, depending on snow conditions. While the country may not have the same level of consistent snowfall as Alpine destinations, ski resorts make use of snowmaking machines to ensure sufficient snow coverage on the slopes

Unfortunately, or fortunately, Serbia is not as lively or extensive as in some other destinations. However Serbian ski resorts do offer après-ski activities and a chance to enjoy local cuisine. Visitors can relax in cosy mountain huts, taste traditional Serbian dishes, and sample regional drinks.

Kopaonik

Probably the most well known resort in Serbia and naturally because of this, the largest of the Serbian ski resorts.

Featuring over 55 kilometres of slopes, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities from beginners to advanced due to the variety of blue, red and the odd black ski run.

Tornik-Zlatibor

Smaller than Kopaonik and most resort in general at only 7 kilometres. However, the Tornik ski resort features a ski area that provides a variety of terrain suitable for different skill levels.

The combination of snow-covered slopes, snowmaking technology for those month of less snowfall and the natural beauty of the area creates a beautiful backdrop for skiing and snowboarding.

Stara Planina – Babin Zub

Also known as Babin Zub, this resort provides a scenic and growing ski resort located in the Stara Planina mountain range in Serbia.

Approximately 13 kilometres of slopes for you to explore ranging from mostly blue and red runs.

Honourable mentions

Although those are our top 3 of the best Serbia ski resorts to explore, some honourable mentions can be found here;

Crni vrh – Bor

Goč – Kraljevačkoj strani

Divčibare

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If you’ve decided the time is right to now buy a Snowboard online. Then fear not, below we have a comprehensive list of where to buy snowboards online at the best possible price!

A lot of people were cooped up during COVID-19 and unable to get onto the slopes and explore the mountains. So now everyone is excited to get out there and stretch those muscles.

So, if you are like so many other people and you are looking for a place to buy a snowboard online, this comprehensive list of websites should be diverse enough that you will be able to find exactly what you’re looking for at the best price!

However, if you’re still undecided you can read on latest article on should I buy or rent a snowboard, here.

The Best Online Snowboard Retailers

Absolute Snow

One of our personal favourites. Absolute Snow provides what you near and very easy to navigate.

The sales at Absolute Snow are great and typically offer the lowest price around. Not to mention you can find all your other snowboarding equipment here too.

Last time we checked they had over 350 snowboards on offer for all sizes, genders and ages.

Amazon

Now this is a slight trick. We’re sorry! Amazon don’t actually sell snowboards, but they do have plenty of retailers providing Snowboard accessories, at great prices.

So do check them out.

Backcountry.com

Due to GDPR, Backcountry.com is only available in the United State. However they similarly to those above, have a great range of product available.

If you’re trying to access them via the UK (like us), then they will point towards their partner Alpine Trek. Unfortunately their offering on snowboards is limited, to non-existent. But, you can find plenty of winter clothing, accessories and similar.

Blue Tomato

Blue Tomato are one of, if not, the biggest Snowboard and equipment provider in Europe. Blue Tomato provide plenty of options, but not necessarily the cheapest around.

Last time we checked they had just under 200 men’s snowboards, over 100 women’s snowboards and around 50 kid’s snowboards.

Their website is easy to navigate and they provide everything you require for your winter holiday, not just snowboards and related accessories, but also jackets, goggles, helmets, bags and general accessories.

Burton

We couldn’t leave out these guys. Now you can find Burton snowboards in plenty of other retailers but you can also buy directly with them. So it’s worth having a look to see if you can grab a bargain.

From our experience however, it’s usually cheaper buying through a retailer as opposed to Burton directly.

Decathlon

Decathlon, although not a specialist retailer they do have a place in the market for entry level equipment if you’re dipping your toe in the water.

Very budget friendly and provide almost everything you need to get started.

eBay

New and used snowboards are plentiful on eBay. There’s almost too much choice so you’ll need to use the filters that’s for sure.

As you can imagine with a bidding site, if demand goes up for a product then so will the price. So be sure to watch the item you may want and keep an eye out on those bids.

Evo.com

Evo.com have can what only be described as a pretty large selection of snowboards on offer.

Last time we checked total snowboards for all ages, genders and sex was over 700. Not too bad at all.

For readers outside of the US, they do thankfully ship globally via UPS. Naturally, there will be taxes and higher delivery costs associated with this.

Glisshop

A great UK retailer of snowboards, Glisshop has over 250 snowboards for all to look over. Not to mention some great discounts on them too.

You can also find almost all of your other snowboarding equipment here to, such as snowboard bags or bindings.

Snowboard Asylum

Another great provider of Snowboards and related equipment. Based out of Salford in the United Kingdom, so great if you’re based in the UK.

Easy to navigate and filter between your requirements including; profile, shape, camber and width to name but a few.

You can pick up a bargain at Snowboard Asylum as they often have sales throughout the year, particularly during the end of the European season – around April time.

Snow & Rock

Slightly harder to navigate, but nevertheless Snow & Rock offers some snowboards to choose from. Not as vast as some of our other options, but you may be able to grab a bargain here.

Due to their focus on other sports, it may be a great one stop shop. Particularly if you like your adventure sports.

Snow Lab

Another UK retailer. Although we’re not too familiar with Snow Lab on first glace they seem to provide great value, albeit, not a large selection of snowboards to choose.

What’s quite nice however, is you can hire snowboards and equipment from them. Not to forget all the other peripheral equipment you’ll need, base layers, gloves etc.

The House

One for our US readers. The House don’t have a selection as large as others, but they do provide plenty of products within the extreme sports arena.

Snowboards always seems to be discounted here too – which doesn’t bother us at all!

The Snowboard Shop

You’re probably wondering what this UK retailer sell. Well The Snowboard Shop sell…ironically they sell much more than snowboards.

However, their filtering makes browsing snowboards and relevant equipment quite simple. Not as large of a selection as other websites, but definitely worth a quick visit.

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Should You Buy Or Hire A Snowboard For A Snowboard Holiday Overview

Planning a ski holiday is exciting, but it also comes with a long checklist of decisions. One of the most common questions snowboarders ask is, Should you buy or hire a snowboard for your ski holiday?

The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your experience level, budget, travel plans, and how often you expect to ride. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice.

But, there are many pros and cons of deciding if you should buy or hire a snowboard on holiday. Several considerations must be taken into account and if buying a Snowboard is worth it.

Which Option Is Right for You?

To decide whether to buy or hire a snowboard for your ski holiday, consider these key factors:

• Beginners and first-timers: Hiring is usually the best option. You can experiment without commitment and upgrade as you learn.
• Occasional riders (once a year or less): Hiring remains cost-effective and convenient.
• Intermediate to advanced riders: Buying may be worthwhile if you value performance and ride regularly.
• Frequent travelers: If airline fees and transport hassle outweigh rental costs, hiring may still make sense—even for experienced riders.
• Long-term enthusiasts: If snowboarding is a core passion, owning your own gear is often more satisfying.

Do you enjoy Snowboarding?

This is a really simple question in fact. Do you enjoy snowboarding enough to warrant buying a Snowboard? Will you keep going on holidays to the Alps, or having lessons in Snowdomes to keep up your ability.

If you can already Snowboard and enjoy Snowboarding then I’m sure you will keep on Snowboarding. So the question may not be entirely relevant for you.

However, if you’re learning and just come back from your first holiday. This is definitely a question worth considering.

The cost of winter holidays are increasing so this factor will definitely come into play. Particularly when there are many options where you can spend your hard earned cash.

The upfront cost of buying a Snowboard

Naturally, if you’re considering buying a Snowboard then you have to accept there will be an upfront cost to buying the board.

Snowboards can range in price from £250, all the way up to near £1,000. Not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.

But, end of season Snowboard sales around April time and beyond mean you can pay a lot less than the RRP. Grabbing yourself a snowboard bargain. Or, if you’re just starting out Decathlon has some great value Snowboards if you’re dipping your toes in the water, check out their full Snowboard range here.

Now don’t forget the other costs that are associated with buying a Snowboard. No, no, no, we don’t stop at the board.

You will need buy Snowboard bindings, which aren’t cheap. Bindings can set you back around £200. Again, not cheap.

You may also want to buy Snowboard boots. Similarly, these aren’t cheap either and can set you back around £200. Similarly to Snowboards, Decathlon have some great value boots, which you can view here.

Don’t forget a Snowboard bag too, that’s another few hundred pound.

So this, £400 snowboard is now looking a lot more expensive.

This cost needs to be compared to the cost of hiring when deciding should I buy or hire a Snowboard on holiday. Snowboard hiring costs are below within point 4.

The ongoing costs of buying a Snowboard

Owning a snowboard means taking responsibility for its maintenance and storage.

This includes waxing, edge tuning, and ensuring proper storage during the offseason. If you are not willing to invest time and effort into maintaining your equipment, renting can be a hassle-free alternative.

Equipment for waxing isn’t monumental and you can’t definitely do this yourself.

• Ski / Snowboard waxing iron: £50
• Wax: £20
• Wax removed: £10
• Brush: £25

One final cost to consider is that if you are going on holiday you will need to pay for snowboard carriage. Airlines typically charge extra for this, around £50 each way. Unless you’re flying with Swiss Air, who happen to have free carriage.

The cost of hiring a Snowboard in Europe

There are plenty of ski and snowboard hire shops in Europe. Including SkiSet, Intersport, Sport 2000 and more.

Lets assume you are going on holiday for 7 days and will need your equipment for 6 days of snowboarding.

• The snowboard rental for 6 days: £70-£100
• The helmet for 6 days: Free
• Snowboard boots for 6 days: £40-£60

Total cost approximately £110 – £160

Skill Level

This point is similar, but different to that of do you like Snowboarding? Here, we’re focusing on assuming you can snowboard to some extent.

Are you happy enough Snowboarding once a year with some friends? Then it may not be worth buying a snowboard.

Or, you may be intent on getting better and using every opportunity to do so. Even if you only manage to focus on Snowboarding for a few weeks of the year. then it may be worth buying a Snowboard over renting a Snowboard.

Rental shops often have a range of snowboards suitable for different skill levels, allowing you to experiment and find the right fit. Once you gain more experience and have a better understanding of your preferences, you can consider buying a snowboard that matches your riding style.

Pros of Hiring A Snowboard For You Ski Holiday

Lower upfront cost

Hiring a snowboard is significantly cheaper than buying one, particularly if you only snowboard once a year or less. Rental packages usually include the board, bindings, and sometimes boots, making it budget-friendly.

No travel hassle

Transporting a snowboard can be expensive and inconvenient. Airlines often charge extra for sports equipment, and carrying bulky gear through airports and resorts can be a hassle. Hiring locally means you travel light.

Easy upgrades and swaps

If the conditions change or you’re not happy with your setup, rental shops often allow you to swap boards. Beginners also benefit from the ability to change sizes or flex as their confidence improves during the week.

No maintenance worries

Rental shops handle tuning, waxing, and repairs. You won’t need to worry about edge damage or base scratches—just return the board at the end of your holiday.

Cons of Hiring A Snowboard For You Ski Holiday

Inconsistent quality

Rental boards are designed to be durable rather than high-performance. While many shops offer premium options, standard rentals may feel heavier or less responsive than a personally owned board.

Availability issues

During peak season, the best boards and sizes can sell out quickly. You may not always get exactly what you want unless you reserve in advance.

So the question remains, should I buy or hire a Snowboard on holiday?

As you may have guessed, this comes down to your preference. Whatever you think is best for your own circumstances. Ultimately, the decision depends on various factors including budget, and commitment to the sport. Assess your needs, consider the factors mentioned above, and make a choice that aligns with your situation.

One final top tip is to think about buying the different elements in stages. Why not first buy a Snowboard helmet – which can be used for other sports too, cycling and climbing for example. Next up, consider buying Snowboarding goggles. Then, you may want to move onto Snowboard boots – wearing Snowboard boots having been worn by someone else isn’t fun. Lastly, then you may want to consider buying the Snowboard and bindings together. By this point you probably know whether you enjoy Snowboarding and will continue doing the sport for years to come – so best to save the largest expense until last.

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