Snowboarding is almost as much fun to capture on film as it is to experience. And for those looking to chronicle their downhill adventures, GoPro stands out as the go-to choice.
But given the range of models available, the question arises: which GoPro is best for snowboarding?
Did I mention the improved thermal performance, allowing up to twice as much battery life in the snow?
Sounds good to me (considering I have almost zero footage from Japan due to my Hero 7 continually shutting down).
Anyway, here’s a detailed overview to guide your decision…
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Our Top GoPro Picks
- Best GoPro For Snowboarding: The GoPro HERO12 Black
- Best Budget GoPro For Snowboarding: The HERO10
- Best GoPro For 360° Snowboarding Footage: The GoPro Max
*Note: If you already have the Hero 10 or Hero 11, there’s no need to upgrade (in my humble opinion). Wait for the next model or spend your spare cash on lift passes!
The Best GoPro for Snowboarding
1. The GoPro HERO12 Black
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Introducing the best GoPro for snowboarding, the HERO12!
This camera is so new, it’s not even been released yet. It’s still on pre-order! There are also a limited number in production, so act quickly to snag one in time for the snow season.
As the 12th iteration of the Hero series, GoPro have really fined-tuned it over the years. The screens are now extremely responsive and provide excellent resolution.
The latest edition of their HyperSmooth stabilization is award-winning, providing silky smooth footage, even on mogul fields!
The HDR video quality is incredible, providing a surprisingly palpable improvement over the (already amazing) HERO11.
To put it simply, the GoPro Hero12 Black is the all-time best GoPro for snowboarding. Provided you have the budget, there’s no need to look any further!
- The most advanced GoPro Ever!
- Upgraded HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization
- 177° field-of-view with Max Lens Mod 2.0
- Improved thermal performance - meaning up to 2x more battery life in cold temperatures
- Pairs with AirPods (and other headphones)
- Wireless synchronization with other HERO12s
- Industry leading image quality thanks to the new HDR (High Dynamic Range) 5.3K and 4K video
- 27 megapixel photos
- Waterproof to 33ft
- Requires microSD card, which is not included
- On Pre-Order currently, meaning delivery may be delayed
Best Budget GoPro for Snowboarding
2. The GoPro HERO10 Black
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Times are tough. Maybe you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative to the Hero12?
Well in my personal opinion, the Hero10 finds the perfect balance between performance and price. You’re still getting HyperSmooth 4.0, 5.3K UHD Video and 23MP photos.
The HERO10 is also the highest-rated GoPro of all time (when it comes to customer reviews).
Going for the HERO9 (or even Hero8) is another option, but you will start to notice a decline in video and audio quality. Particularly if you ride uneven terrain.
- Best bang for your buck!
- Currently significantly cheaper than the HERO12
- HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization
- 23 megapixel photos
- Waterproof to 33ft
- 5.3K60 + 4K120 resolution
- Cloud connected - backing up your content on the fly
- Can't match the image stabilization and quality of the new HERO12
Best GoPro for 360° Snowboard Footage:
3. The GoPro Max
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The GoPro Max was my first foray into the world of 360-degree cameras. I’ve tested it a couple of times over the past few years… There’s a lot to admire.
Firstly, the design feels robust, living up to GoPro’s reputation for crafting sturdy action cameras. It easily survived a few accidental drops when hiking or not paying attention.
The dual 180-degree lenses captured all around me in stunning clarity, providing an immersive experience when watching it back. The image stabilization, branded as “Max HyperSmooth”, was particularly impressive. Even during bumpy side country trails, the footage came out buttery smooth.
But it wasn’t all roses.
Switching between the camera’s Hero mode (which essentially turns it into a traditional GoPro action camera) and the 360-degree mode was not as intuitive as I’d hoped.
Moreover, while the accompanying GoPro app is essential for reframing and editing 360-degree content, I found myself wrestling with it more than I would’ve liked.
But these minor gripes aside, the GoPro Max provides a super versatile filming experience. Whether you’re looking to capture traditional action footage or experiment with 360-degree content, this camera covers all the bases.
- Immersive 360-degree videos in 5.6K resolution
- Max HyperSmooth stabilization
- Six Built-In Mics
- "Hero Mode" for when you need to traditional footage
- Capable of massive panoramic shots
- Lens switch tech
- Rugged and durable
- Water proof to 5 meters
- Reduced waterproof ratings
- Smaller display
- Older tech than the HERO12 (the Max is several seasons old)
Most Compact GoPro for Snowboarding:
4. The GoPro HERO11 Black Mini
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The HERO11 Black Mini features most of GoPro’s best tech, in a more portable and intuitive design.
This was particularly great for helmet and chest mounted footage. It’s notably lightweight, barely noticeable whilst riding.
If you’ve never had a GoPro before, it’s also one of the easier options. Just press the button, point and shoot!
The Status screen is on the top of the camera, making it super easy to check when shooting or chest-mounting.
A drawback however is the lack of a display screen. You can’t check your framing or watch the videos back (unless you stop to stream them to your phone).
GoPro have combatted this by producing automatic highlight videos and cloud-compatibiliy.
However, the HERO 11 Mini is certainly best suited to riders planning to mount their camera and forget about it. Go for the HERO12 if you’d prefer a display.
- Intuitive one-touch design
- HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization
- Super lightweight and storable
- Only 133g (HERO12 is 154g)
- "Status Only Display" is super convenient when chest mounted (it's on the top instead of the front)
- 10m (33-ft) waterproofing
- Super-fast charging
- In-built mounting fingers
- Produces automatic highlight reels
- No display (small status screen only)
- Easier to mistakenly not be recording
- Battery not removable, meaning you can't bring along spares on long shoots
Best Older GoPro for Snowboarding:
5. The GoPro HERO11
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The HERO11 remains one of the best GoPros for snowboarding. If you already have one, there’s certainly no reason to upgrade to the HERO12 just yet.
However, it’s hard to recommend this over the 12 for newcomers. The prices are very similar, and for an extra few bucks you’ll get better clarity and much better stabilization.
The only time I’d recommend choosing the HERO11 over the 12 is during generous price-drops. For $100+ savings, I’d take the HERO11 and spend the difference on another lift pass!
- Almost as high-tech as the 12!
- HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization
- 10m (33-ft) waterproofing
- Automatic highlight reels
- Excellent resolution
- Sleek, badass design
- Unless it's significantly discounted, you may as well go for the 12!
Alternatives to GoPro
There are of course other brands available. I’ll write up an article on the best action cameras and drop the link here.
Spoiler alert, it’s the AKASO Brave 7.
Overall, GoPro is still your best bet though!
Snowboard GoPro Buying Guide
To capture every moment with precision, a GoPro is your best bet. But which one should you get? Which features are essential for snowboarders?
Here’s a concise guide:
Resolution: A higher resolution means clearer footage. Look for models that offer 4K or even 5K capabilities.
Stabilization: As snowboarding involves a lot of movement, you’ll want steady shots. GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization, available in newer models, will make sure your footage isn’t shaky.
Waterproofing: You’re dealing with snow, which means you’ll need a camera that’s water-resistant. Most recent GoPro models can handle wet conditions, but it’s always a good idea to check.
Battery Life: Cold weather can affect battery performance. Opt for models known for longer battery life or ensure you have spare batteries on hand.
Mounting Options: Your perspective defines your footage. With options like helmet mounts, chest mounts, and board mounts, you can vary your shots and bring more dynamism to your recordings.
Durability: Ensure your chosen model is robust enough to withstand occasional bumps and drops.
Additional Features: Consider other aspects like touch screen capabilities, voice control for hands-free operation, and slow-motion recording for those epic moments.
Accessories
As discussed above, the GoPro itself is no good without the right mounting systems. This is the most important aspect of your setup.
Fortunately, I’ve covered that below too!
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal GoPro for snowboarding isn’t just about chasing the latest model; it’s about finding the right balance between features, durability, and price.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to capture every intricate move or a weekend warrior wanting to relive the rush of the mountains, you’ll find a GoPro tailored for you.
Here’s to crisp, mesmerizing footage that does justice to every twist, turn, and trick!
Happy riding filming!
