Before you go dropping your hard earned coin on a rig, it's important to know what type of snowboarding you want to do. Boards are designed for specific types of riding, and you don't want to make the mistake of buying a board that isn't going to work the type of riding you want to do. The descriptions below will help you decide what type of riding you would like to do.

Freeride
Free riding is the broadest style of snowboarding and has the most equipment options. Freeride gear includes a soft boot system and boards that are relatively longer in length. If you're not sure what type of riding you like to do, this is the best category of equipment to choose because the equipment is versatile and will meet a wide range of terrain conditions.

Freecarve
If you're into bombing downhill runs and carving this is the style for you. Freecarving is most often done on hard-pack or groomed runs and focuses on the precision carving turns. In the s-style form of freecarve racing, gates are often used like traditional downhill ski events. Freecarve equipment is comprised of a hard boot and plate binding system, while the boards are stiff, narrow and relatively long.

Freestyle
Freestyle riding is one of the latest trends in snowboarding and is the most appealing to watch by younger generations because it includes jumps, tricks, rail slides, half pipes and switch riding.

Like freeride gear, this equipment includes a soft boot and a short, maneuverable board. Most freestyle boards handle jumps, airs, spins and are multi-directional (enables you to ride switch). Specialty freestyle boards include those intended to be ridden in da pipe.

Summing Up Style
So what's the best style? There isn't one - it all depends on what type of riding you what to do. If you're a beginner you should consider buying gear designed for a variety of terrain and conditions. A freeride setup will offer the beginner the most equipment options and cater to the widest range of conditions. No matter what style you choose, understanding riding styles is the key to maximizing your fun.