What board to get? Please help :)

[Estylo]

Hey Frosty and other fellow boarders,

I am going to take my first boarding trip in years, for 3 days in January.  I have no equipment and I am planning to get beginner board, gear and just go have fun this season. I'm a very athletic person (Martial arts/Bboy/Gymnast) I am intrigued by the Freestyle boards and I was using the calculator to see what comes up.  24/7 boards seem to be the majority so I am asking if I should go with it? what are your reviews on them? I'm 5'7, 8.5 size boots, 150 pounds .....I've boarded before but very long ago. I would love some suggestions on purchasing some good waterproof clothing (I've read your tips and insight already) brands. (not looking for any burton stuff right now...not pro yet haha )

Thanks in advance everyone!

[Frosty]

Welcome Estylo!  Well, looks like you are wanting to save some cash.  Yes, there are some brands of snowboards available that are lower price-point and 24/7 is one of those brands.  I have never personally ridden one of their boards and would like to hear from someone who has and get their take on them.  From what I know of "lower price point" kinds of boards, you are still going to get a good deck but it may be a little heavier and the materials may be the cheaper kind (i.e. extruded base instead of sintered) but you WILL still have FUN with them -- especially if you are a beginner and you get the right size board for you.  And since the board is your own and dialed in to your specs, it will be much better than a rental board.

As for outerwear, you really do not need to be a pro to invest in good quality goods like Burton (or 686 or DC).  Although, if you do not have much to spend on top quality clothing, at least get outerwear that is waterproof/breathable.  For example, instead of getting 686 snowboard pants for $160, you can opt for White Sierra brand for only $60.  It will be nearly just as good (White Sierra is a GREAT bargain brand).  But I warn you, do not skimp and get the $30 plain nylon pants that are not waterproof/breathable -- that is a recipe for sadness my friend.

Well, I hope this little tid-bit helps you out.  Have a great trip, stop back here OFTEN and keep in touch with us.

PEACE
F.R. - 8

[Estylo]

AWESOME reply my friend! I am happy with the 24/7 brand for now, hence i want a board to beat up pretty good through out the season and later opt for a better one (Burton is the goal) I'll check the Sierra White for sure man, my friends all told me too, "GET WATERPROOF!" so makes sense I'll let u know how my first trip was soon.

Cheers!
Happy Holidays