It doesn’t matter if you’ve been riding for a years or just starting out, a quality snowboard package will save you a lot of money. Saving money means less time at work and more time on the mountain.
Retailers will work with board makers to buy numerous sets of boots, bindings, and snowboards to pre-build a complete package they can market to would-be buyers. A large buy from the manufacturer will typically produce a lot of savings to the retailer that they can pass on to the rider. The only major drawback to buying one of these pre-built packages is the lack of selection and sometimes size. The alternative is to piece together your ideal board, bindings, and boots. Don’t get me wrong, this can be a good way to acquire your next snowboard set up. In fact, a lot of snowboarders will opt for a custom package to get just the right graphic design, shape, stiffness, and performance. Not unlike skateboarding, a board speaks volumes as to who you are as a rider if you choose to make snowboarding a ‘lifestyle’ rather then a hobby. However, bear in mind that piecemealing a custom board package together is often more expensive then buying a complete package deal. Riders must choose the great price of a pre-set package or venture into a more custom package and probably pay more for their final combination.
Retailers will emphasize a great snowboard package in their advertising at the beginning of a new season. In fact, I’ve seen snowboard packages promote as early as September, well in advance of the upcoming season. Great deals don’t last long so if you see something you love, don’t hesitate to line up early before the doors open. If it’s a good deal for you its likely someone else has their eye on it, too. The major, national, and even local outdoor outfitters will put together some great new packages you should look for at the beginning of the season. An even better deal on new packages can be found by shopping the Internet. There are some great options on new snowboarding packages made up of last year’s models through the online snowboard outlets. I personally like to piece together a used package by shopping on eBay and Craigslist. Some of the very best packages I’ve seen have been assembled using used gear.
Smart riders in need of a new ride will be vigilant at the beginning of the new season, looking for just the right snowboard package to meet their needs. Being on the lookout will inevitably result in a lot of cash saved and more time riding in the terrain park.