Still my favourite snowboard ever - K2 Jibpan 2008
Today’s reader question:
I’ve had my current snowboard for a couple seasons now, should I replace it? How do I know when I need to replace it?
You don’t have to replace it 😉
Is there a point when you should replace a snowboard?
Yep, replace it when it breaks, has huge unfixable holes in the base or it has some huge fault such as the entire top sheet coming off. Outside of that, there’s no reason you NEED to replace your snowboard as long as it’s working fine for your current riding style.
I know some people do replace their snowboard every season or two, but there’s no real reason you need to unless you just want the latest gear and graphics. There’s rarely any huge advances in technology and a new snowboard would mean you have to spend time getting used to a slightly different feel as well.
If anything, I’d rather stick with an old snowboard that I’m used to rather than buy a brand new snowboard with a slightly different feel and shape.
How long will a snowboard last?
The rough estimate that most companies say is about 100 days of riding. However, that doesn’t account for the rider.
If you’re a park rider who hits jumps and big drops all day, there’s a decent chance you’ll crack your snowboard in half within a season. However, if you’re someone who only rides gentles slopes and groomers all day, a snowboard could last many, many seasons.
Some people go through 3-5 snowboards a season, some people keep the same snowboard for 3 years. It just depends on how hard you are on your gear and how unlucky you get with awkward landings and hitting rocks/trees.
Hope that answers your question!
– Jed