Introduction
Rather than recommend specific brands, in this article I'm going to recommend specific items that will make your job as a snowboard instructor easier on your gear and your body.
In my almost two decades of experience as a career snowboard instructor and instructor trainer, I've learned which items are essential and how to make them last as long as possible.
When working as a snowboard instructor, employers will often give you a uniform which takes care of a huge piece of required gear.
This article will focus on three other key items:
- Snowboard Boots
- Snowboards
- Accessories
Without further ado, let's drop in!
Boots
I suggest investing in two pairs of boots, yes two.
Why two pairs? Because one pair will be your work boots and the other pair will be your shred boots.
Work Boots
Your work boots are for the days when you're teaching and your shred boots are for your days off or for when your client can actually shred.
Your work boots should be comfortable and warm. These boots don't need to be high-end, they just need to be functional.
Expect your work boots to take some abuse and get scuffed. With your back health in mind I don't suggest it, but if you help your client up from a sitting position, sometimes their toe edge will end up on the toe of your boot.
If you find yourself getting cold feet, think about placing a layer of tin foil under your in insoles to reflect the cold back towards the snow. Or, purchase heated socks.
Shred Boots
Your higher-end shred boots can be where you invest your money. Keep these for days when you're going to get rad out on the mountain and need that ultra-fine performance.
Regardless of which pair you wear, at the end of the day it's a good idea to pull the insoles out of the liners, pull the liners out of the shells, lace up the shells, and let everything dry out thoroughly before storage.
Next up, boards.
Snowboards
When it comes to snowboard, again, I recommend having two.
Why? You guessed it:
- Work board
- Shred board
Work Snowboard
I remember rocking up to a lesson with my shiny new board, learning I had a beginner that day.
I also remember feeling my heart sink as that beginner slid over my board leaving an enormous scratch right across the nose.
It happens. Don't let it happen to you.
I recommend choosing a true twin shape for your work board.
Why? Because good snowboard instructors ride a lot of switch and twin flex will let the board shape work equally the same in both directions.
Getting a client who rides the opposite stance as you is a blessing. You get paid to put in switch mileage which only improves your overall skills.
You don't need to invest a ton of money in your work board. Make sure it looks professional, keep it in the best shape possible, and expect it to get more than a few scratches.
Shred Snowboard
This is where you can drop your money. This is your baby.
Take this board out on your days off or when your client can actually ride well.
Follow your heart on this one. Directional, twin, all-mountain, park, etc. The choice is yours!
Treat your board well by maintaining and storing it properly and it will serve you for many days on the mountain.
Accessories
Beyond the usuals such as helmets, goggles, gloves, etc. I recommend the following accessories to make your life as a snowboard teacher that much better:
- Knee Pads
- Impact Shorts
- Pocket Tool
- Extra Goggles
Knee Pads & Impact Shorts
Why these two items you might ask? Insulation.
Yes, impact pads help you when you fall. As snowboard teachers they provide us with the additional benefit of insulating crucial places on our bodies.
Often when we're explaining something to a client who is sitting, we are either crouching down with one knee on the ground or sitting beside them on our behinds.
Adding a layer of insulation between your body and the snow keeps you warmer and drier during your work day.
Many companies provide low-profile impact pads that fit perfectly under a snowboard teacher's work uniform.
Pocket Tool & Zip Ties
Even though there are tool benches at select spots at most resorts, your client will be impressed if their binding is a bit loose and you can pull out your trusty pocket tool.
In the case where a strap actually snaps, a zip tie can be a quick fix until you get to the snowboard shop.
Extra Goggles
This one is optional, but this is another way to have your client's back.
Imagine the scene where they face plant into powder and come up with their goggles fully packed in with snow. Or, they have unmanageable fog issues.
Whichever the case, you will be a hero to your client if you can provide them with a fresh pair when they need it most.
Conclusion
As career snowboard instructors, we need to give ourselves the tools to do our jobs well.
It takes a bit of investment to get yourself fully equipped, but once you make that investment it will pay dividends throughout your career.
Go get 'em!