5 great ways to get ready for snowboard season

Discover how to prepare for snowboard season, so you can have as much fun on the slopes as possible this year.

The temperature is dropping, the snow is falling, and you can feel it in your bones – snowboard season is almost here. But before you head out to carve some powder, you want to make sure all your gear’s got game.

The easiest thing to overlook when preparing for snowboard season is a season’s pass to the slopes of your choice. Make sure you sign up early enough to get in on the early-bird discounts, and you’ll have more cash left over for gear or gas money. Remember to tell your snowboard buddies, too, because you don’t want to be the one footing the bill for everything.

Break out your board and check it over for damage and wear. Remember to take a careful look at your edges and double-check your bindings to make sure you haven’t stripped anything. It’s pretty easy to forget a bail you took last season, so have a look for damage to make sure you’re starting this season fresh. Clean and wax your board, too, to make sure you’re ready for opening day.

You don’t have to have this season’s fashion if last season’s outerwear is still functional. Make sure you check all your seams, lining, cuffs and around each zipper, to make sure nothing is torn or broken. Double-check your jacket, and try your boots on again. Are they as comfortable as you remember? Do you need some inserts? Making sure your outerwear is in good condition and waterproof will help you enjoy a full season in comfort. If there’s something that needs replacing, at least you know you’ll be spending money wisely.

If you’re going from a 200-channel a day habit to carving down the slopes, you’re going to be in for a world of hurt unless you do some stretches. Even if you’re in pretty good shape, or spent the warmer months skateboarding or biking, you should probably make sure your lower back, knees and hips are feeling limber. Working out the kinks a little bit will help you feel more comfortable on the slopes, and certainly when you stop for the day.

It’s pretty understandable that you want to just grab your snowboard and head to the slopes as soon as the lifts are open. But if you take your time and double-check the five things to prepare for snowboard season, you’ll be hitting the slopes with confidence and comfort.