Going Snowboarding. Need Advice (walking, beginners, buy, cheap)

[CityScape0322]

Hi guys,

I've been invited snowboarding by some of my way out west adventurer type friends. Quite frankly this is a bucket list item as I wanted to do that as a teenager, and here I am in my late 20's with a chance to do it.

However, at this point in my life I'm at a loss for what I am walking into. I now live in Miami Beach and don't own anything warmer than a light jacket for that one day in January when it gets below 60 degrees.

What type of snowboarding specific winter clothing should I buy for a trip to Breckenridge Colorado?

Are there things I should skip as I'll be a beginner?

Any info will help...

[skidaho]

You might want to check and see if renting clothing and equipment is an option. It could cost hundreds of dollars or more to buy what you need. At the very least you will need some base layers, good gloves, snow pants, parka, goggles and hat, or even better yet, a helmet.

It might be a good idea to take a lesson or two. Maybe sign up for a morning lesson and join your friends on the slopes in the afternoon. Sometimes when you have experienced riders and beginners together it's not that much fun for either of them.

Most of all smile and have fun!

[headingtoDenver]

Hopefully, your buddies will have extra clothing you can borrow so you don't have to buy the stuff. The cost of winter gear can add up very quickly. There are places that do rent jackets, pants, gloves and helmets, but I would recommend at least getting some wool long johns and a wool long sleeve shirt to wear under the jacket.

As for actual gear, just rent the equipment. The shop will fit you properly for boots and a board. Also, be prepared to fall a LOT if you have never snowboarded before. I've only skied a few times and have never boarded, but the snowboarders who were taking lessons were always falling down. Usually, gear can be rented for 25 -30 bucks for the day.

Hopefully this helps and have fun!!

[DaveinMtAiry]

Do not make the beginner mistake of showing up in jeans over long underwear. You will spend the majority of the day on your ass and by the 3rd run you will be wet, cold and miserable. Snow pants are cheap but essential, so are Gortex gloves and a decent coat.