How to choose a splitboard | There are many small details to consider. If possible, consult with a specialist store

Split the snowboard in two like disposable chopsticks and unfold it into a ski-like shape. Put anti-slip stickers on the soles and climb the mountain, then return it to its snowboard shape and glide down. Splitboards are popular because they allow for faster hiking speeds and are lighter on the back when skiing than snowshoes, but they have a complex mechanism and require special parts, so there are many things to be aware of. So we looked into what you should pay attention to when buying one for the first time

Interview cooperation: Sunrise Hill

POINT 1: Tips for choosing the right size

It's not the length that matters, it's the weight

The first thing you'll probably worry about when choosing a splitboard is what length model you should choose. Generally, snowboard sizes are chosen based on height. However, with splitboards, whose main purpose is to ride in powder, the key factor is how well they can handle deep snow

So, weight is the key. Naturally, the longer the splitboard, the more surface area it has in contact with the snow, and the more weight it can support. If you want enough flotation to support you in deep snow, weight is the key

Length guide based on weight

When considering a skier's weight, the question is whether it is the weight of the body alone, or the total weight when skiing with clothing and equipment on. This is because there can sometimes be a difference of more than 10 kg between the two. The answer is the weight of the body alone. Just think about how much you weigh when you step on the scale after a bath, and manufacturers use this as a basis to determine the weight range for each size

As a guideline,
under 45 kg and under 150 cm
, 45 to 55 kg and 148 to 157 cm
, 55 to 70 kg and 155 to 163 cm
, and 70 kg and over and 160 cm and over.

That's about it. In reality, the issue isn't the length of the board, but the area of ​​the board that comes into contact with the snow. This means that even if the board is short, it doesn't matter as long as it's wide. When choosing a wider board, remember that you'll need a different guideline than the size indicated above

Light weight

Suitable for heavier weights

Add your own preference while considering the length

However, there's no point in choosing a board that is foolproof and only focuses on specs. You should also check out your favorite brands, models you're interested in, and models that go beyond specs and that you'd like to ride. It's important to choose not only what you should choose, but also what model you want to ride, taking into account your preferences and tastes

POINT 2 Meaning of shape

If you're aiming for powder, choose the Swallowtail

The swallowtail, an iconic powder board, is designed so that the tail sinks just enough in powder. This keeps the nose relatively elevated, making it easier to generate buoyancy. Additionally, its ease of handling makes it easy to handle even under changing snow conditions, including slope and angle, and it's highly rated by powder enthusiasts for its ability to adapt to natural terrain

However, swallowtail skis can be difficult to use on steep, hard-frozen slopes, as they can easily cause turns to slip outwards. Depending on the snow quality, the season, and the mountain range, a more conventional round tail ski can often be easier to use, so swallowtail skis are not necessarily the only option

Keep in mind that all tail shapes have their advantages and disadvantages, so consult with a shop or other professional about the characteristics of the terrain you plan to ski in, and choose the shape that will give you the most fun. Incidentally, the tail shape has almost no effect on the climbing ability of skins

Do you prefer a model with a long nose?

If you're only considering buoyancy, a board with a longer nose is advantageous. The nose also floats without you having to pay too much attention to putting weight on your back foot, which reduces the strain on your feet. However, backcountry snow conditions vary. Just as there are advantages and disadvantages to different tail shapes, there are also advantages and disadvantages to a longer nose, and it may not be advantageous in all situations. Just like tail shape, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The important thing is to choose a board that suits the field you're trying to ski on

Rocker or camber?

Rocker tends to create more buoyancy and make the board easier to handle, while camber tends to lead to more satisfying carving turns when you step on it firmly. Which one you choose depends on your style and preferences. In other words, it's completely a matter of preference

In recent years, hybrid skis that combine the advantages of both rocker and camber have become mainstream, and many models are beginning to settle on this hybrid style. However, whether you choose rocker or camber, there is no difference in the climbing ability of the ski

POINT 3 What you need besides the splitboard itself

The minimum requirements other than the splitboard itself are:

Splitboard bindings
Unlike regular snowboard bindings, splitboard bindings can be used in two ways: gliding mode and walking mode.

the Interface
Splitboard bindings to a splitboard, and a base for use in walking mode

walking
in walking mode. Also called skins.

It is used as an auxiliary device when walking on poles

Depending on the situation, you may need crampons

Crampons
are metal cleats attached to splitboards when in walking mode. They are also called crampons or kutos.

POINT 4 When choosing bindings

Since you'll be using it in the backcountry where there are no shops nearby, it's best to minimize the risk of trouble. In that sense, I recommend something with a simple structure that won't break easily

Furthermore, the role of bindings is to connect the board you want to ride with boots that fit your feet. In that sense, if the bindings don't go well with your boots, it will be difficult to achieve a good fit and they will be ruled out as an option. Also, no matter how simple and light a binding is, it is meaningless if it doesn't match your riding style and how you use it. Choosing bindings requires taking into account several factors such as these. It's best to take your time to choose, consulting with an experienced rider or a specialist shop

POINT 5 What is a splitboard for beginners?

It's best to consult with a specialist store

Gear selection is different for each individual, as it takes into consideration factors such as the skiing level of the person, the mountain, the season, and the route they will be skiing on. It is very difficult to generalize in the media

So, what I highly recommend is to consult with a specialist splitboard shop. They'll talk about your budget, how you like to ride, the boards you've ridden in the past, what conditions you like and don't like, and so on. You can't go wrong by talking through all of this and gradually narrowing down your search to the gear you want

Alternatively, you could borrow equipment from a friend who already has a splitboard and try it out. Using that board as a reference, you can specify your preferences, such as whether you want a board that is a little longer or softer, and you'll be able to quickly find the board that suits your needs

POINT 6 Featured splitboards and bindings

Finally, let's ask Mr. Kobayashi, the manager of Sunrise Hill, a pro shop in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, who cooperated with us in this interview, about splitboards and bindings, which he is particularly interested in

▶Splitboard

※OGASAKA splitboard FACET video
The Swallowtail provides high maneuverability and gliding performance in powder, as evidenced by the spectacular riding scene.

▶Binding

*SPARK R&D's latest PV and factory video showing product creation

Even after purchasing a splitboard, you'll need expert advice on maintenance and usage.
Because it's a tool that can be used for a long time, we recommend purchasing it from a shop that will allow you to continue to have a good relationship with it.

Written by Takuro Hayashi