Snowboards are designed with durability in mind, but it’s still possible to break this particular piece of equipment. Should this happen, you may need to invest in a new board or pay for one you’ve rented. There are potential safety risks associated with broken snowboards as well. Below, the experts at ASO Mammoth, your premier choice for high-quality Mammoth snowboard rental, go over some of the ways a snowboard could break and what you can do to protect your board.
How a Snowboard Might Break
All-mountain, freestyle, freeride, powder, and splitboards are the main types of snowboards. Most boards today are made of fiberglass, plastic, steel, and wood. There’s usually a top-coat application as well to enhance and protect whatever colors and designs are included on the surface and boost scratch resistance.
As for why or how a snowboard might break, there are several possible contributing factors. For example, you could have a hard landing on snow-covered terrain that causes your board to crack. Awkward landings can also weaken a snowboard enough to make the board break entirely. Issues with your technique and form can contribute to board breaks, too. For instance, extreme overflexing could cause a snowboard to snap. Other possible reasons a snowboard may break include:
• Jumping sizable gaps onto rails
• Using your board when it already has existing damage
• Hitting rocks under snow-covered terrain when you land
• Using a snowboard that’s either lower in quality or not designed with your preferred terrain in mind
What to Do if Your Snowboard Breaks
If your board completely snaps in half, it’s best to replace it. While there are epoxies and glues that form strong bonds, it’s not a good idea to risk using a snowboard held together with bonding materials. Replacement is also typically the better option if your board breaks in the middle or somewhere along the tail or nose. However, replacement edges can be safely used to repair damage to edges if applied correctly. According to Snowboarder.com, this means using fine finishing screws for added strength after applying the epoxy.
If a rental snowboard breaks, it’s best to take it back to the rental shop and explain what happened. This doesn’t guarantee you’ll be off the hook entirely as far as having to pay something extra because of the damage. Still, most reputable shops will at least consider the circumstances involved.
What Can Be Done to Protect Your Snowboard
First, start by investing in or renting a top-quality snowboard designed for the conditions it will regularly be exposed to. Also, avoid snowboarding in areas where the terrain may not be suitable for proper landings. Further protect your snowboard and reduce the risk of having it break, snap, chip, or become damaged in other ways by:
• Regularly inspecting it after each use
• Being mindful of form and technique when you’re on your snowboard
• Having minor cracks or flaws repaired when you first notice them
If you need advice on how to keep your snowboard in great shape, drop by and chat with the experts at ASO Mammoth on your way to the slopes. We have great tips for beginning and veteran snowboarders alike, and we can hook you up with all the gear you need for an amazing mountain adventure. Whether they need the latest skiing equipment or snowboard rentals in Mammoth, visitors know they can rely on us for great service and expert advice. Come by and see us or give us a call at 760-965-3444.