If you’re new to the world of snowboarding, one key thing to be aware of before you purchase your first board is the type of base you choose. Even pro boarders will tell you how a little bit of knowledge can go a long way in helping you determine which type of board will best suit your riding style and level of experience. Here’s a general overview of how sintered and extruded snowboard bases differ so you know what to look for before hunting for your first or next board.
Why Does the Base of Your Snowboard Matter?
Simply put, the base of your board will impact your ride. In some cases, it can slow you down or cost more money for repairs once it gets dinged, which will inevitably happen, especially if you’re a novice snowboarder. So let’s break down the two main base types below to help you decide on the right one for your needs.
Extruded Base
If you’re new to snowboarding, the extruded base is usually a better choice. First off, it’s typically priced lower, making it a more affordable option for a starter board. But beyond the price, it’s also easier to maintain and less costly to repair. You may not realize it now, but these two factors will be key as you get out and spend more time on the slopes. As with anything new, you should expect lots of falls, which will leave your board with plenty of knicks and dings. This is particularly true for anyone who wants to practise on rails or focus on street style riding since it’s where your board can get damaged the most –and where the extruded base will be best suited. You won’t have to spend nearly as much on repairing and maintaining the base. If you do want to maintain a higher speed, just make sure to wax it more frequently.
The main PROS of the Extruded Base:
- More affordable to maintain and repair
- Less costly to purchase
- Better durability
The main CONS of the Extruded Base:
- Not as suitable for experienced riders
- Not as fast as a sintered baseboard
- Wax doesn’t adhere to it as well, which affects the speed
Sintered Base
Now that you have the basics of the extruded base, let’s focus on the sintered. The sintered base is an ideal choice for those who are more experienced and who want to have ample speed when they’re riding. Although this style costs more, it retains the wax coating for a longer period of time, giving advanced riders a better overall experience without the limitations of the extruded base. However, this one will also cost you more to repair. We recommend a sintered board for riders who have more experience, who aren’t too concerned about the cost to buy and maintain it, and who care about their speed or want to race.
The main PROS of the Sintered Base:
- Retains wax for longer
- Let you go faster for a longer duration
The main CONS of the Sintered Base:
- More costly to purchase
- More costly to repair
- More costly to maintain
It’s always wise to have some basic understanding of the equipment involved in any hobby or sport you’re interested in so you can enjoy and elevate your experience. Keep these factors in mind so you can find a board that you love and that suits your budget and riding style. Our technicians at Repair and Run are proud to offer quick repair services at competitive prices. Contact us today to find out more.
