What Size Snowboard Does Your Kid Need?

Let’s be real—picking the right snowboard size for your kid feels like total guesswork. One chart says this, the next says that, and suddenly you’re second-guessing everything.

But don’t stress—we’re going to break it down in plain English. Whether your little ripper is just starting out or already carving up the blues, this guide will help you find the right snowboard size (without overthinking it).

What Actually Matters for Sizing Kids’ Snowboards?

Most people assume snowboard sizing is all about height. Makes sense, right? But the real MVP here is weight. Why? Because boards flex based on how much pressure is put on them. Height plays a part, but it’s really more of an afterthought

✅ Weight: Top priority. Tells you how the board will flex and respond.
✅ Skill level: Beginners need different sizing than confident rippers.
✅ Riding style: Park kids = shorter boards. Powder kids = longer boards.
✅ Height: Good for fine-tuning, but not the main sizing tool.

Kids’ Snowboard Size Chart (Use This One!)

⚡ Quick tip: Start with weight, then fine-tune with height. If your kid’s between sizes, consider their skill level—new riders benefit from going shorter.

Short vs. Long Boards – What’s the Difference?

Shorter Boards (Lower End of Range)

✅ Easier to control
✅ Lighter and easier to turn
✅ Perfect for beginners or park rats
❌ Less stable at speed
❌ Can sink in deep snow

Longer Boards (Upper End of Range)

✅ More stability, especially at speed
✅ Floats better in powder
✅ Good for aggressive riders
❌ Harder to turn, especially for smaller kids

Boot Size = Board Width (Yes, It Matters)

Kids with bigger feet might need a wider board. Here’s a quick way to eyeball it:

• Have your kid stand on the board in their boots.
• Toes and heels should hang over just a little.
• If boots are spilling off the edge? Look for a mid-wide or wide option.

Pro tip: Most kids’ boards come in a “standard” width. But if your grom wears size 7+ boots, double-check before buying.

Flex & Shape – What Works Best for Groms?

Flex:

• Soft: Easiest to control—go-to choice for most kids.
• Medium: Good for all-mountain riders who are leveling up.
• Stiff: Leave this to teens with strong legs and advanced skills.

Shape:

• Twin: Same front and back. Great for riding switch and park.
• Directional: Front-facing design, better for all-mountain or powder.
• Directional Twin: Bit of both. Good for all-around fun.

💡 For most kids, a soft-flex twin or directional twin board is the way to go. Simple, forgiving, and easy to learn on.

“Should I Size Up So They Can Grow Into It?”

Short answer: Not by much. Going too big can make snowboarding way harder than it needs to be.

❌ Too long = hard to turn, heavier, more tiring
❌ Too wide = sluggish edge control
✅ Okay to size up 2–3 cm if your kid is growing fast and not a total beginner

Golden Rule: If they’re new to riding, it’s better to size down than up. Give them a fun learning curve, not a frustrating one.

Common Mistakes (And How to Dodge Them)

🚫 Going by height alone: Weight is king. Height just helps fine-tune.
🚫 Buying a stiff board “they’ll grow into”: Too hard to control now = less fun.
🚫 Ignoring width: Toe drag is real. Make sure the boots fit the board.

FAQ

Q: What if my kid is between sizes?
A: Go shorter if they’re new. Go longer if they’re confident or riding powder.

Q: Can my kid use an adult board?
A: Only if they meet the adult board’s weight/boot size requirements. Otherwise, youth-specific boards are better suited.

Q: How often should I replace their board?
A: When they outgrow it or wear it out. Expect every 1–2 seasons depending on growth spurts and riding frequency.

💬 Final Thoughts

The right snowboard size makes a huge difference in how quickly your kid improves and how much fun they have on the hill. Go by weight first, keep the board short and soft for beginners, and don’t fall into the “they’ll grow into it” trap.

You’re not just picking a board—you’re setting them up for a stoke-filled season. Have a blast!