Snowboarding in some ways, is like a good book; once you’re immersed, it’s almost impossible to step away!
But, let’s face it, we can’t always be on the slopes.
So what’s the ideal way to spend the snowboarding off-season? For me, it’s all about hitting the books – the snowboard ones, that is. The best snowboard books will even keep my snow cravings at bay (temporarily).
While I haven’t read every book out there, I’ve tackled a significant chunk!
Here are a few of my top recommendations to get you started, with a more extensive list to follow.
- Best Snowboard Book To Gift: Snowboard Wisdom
- Best Option for Advanced Riders: The Art of Shralpinism
- Best Snowboard Book For Mind-Blowing Visuals: Chasing Epic
- Best Book For Travel Inspiration: Fifty Places To Ski and Snowboard Before You Die
The 7 Best Snowboard Books
Author: Chris Santella
Published: October 2013
- Incredible photography
- Explores resorts that I never even knew existed!
- Each destination includes helpful tips and insider secrets
✖️Slightly outdated when discussing prices and recent developments
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One of the best parts about snowboarding is that it will take you to some of the most beautiful and jaw-dropping places on earth.
Fifty Places to Ski and Snowboard Before you Die takes you to all of these places and more! The book is packed with incredible photos alongside stories from some of the best snowboarders and skiers on earth.
What I love most about this book is that every page offers a vivid insider’s glimpse into the world’s most exhilarating spots. Well worth a read.
Author: Jeremy Jones
Published: October 2022
- Penned by a true freeride legend!
- Includes life-saving gems of wisdom
- Focuses on the culture and philosophy of snowboarding
- Motivational stories and insights that transcend typical snowboarding advice
✖️Not for the casual weekend warrior - this is for the die-hard, passionate snowboarder who enjoys the technical aspects of riding
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Part autobiography, part snowboard guide, “The Art of Shralpinism” is an incredible option for passionate snowboarders*.Â
This book isn’t your typical technical guide; it’s a deeply personal journey into the soul of snowboarding and mountain adventure.
I was particularly struck by Jeremy Jones’s unique approach to snowboarding and mountain life. His blend of personal experiences, anecdotes from other renowned adventurers, and original artwork creates a rich tapestry of stories that are both enlightening and inspiring.
*Beginners may enjoy it too, but it’s also fairly technical so be prepared to learn!
Author: Devon Raney
Published: February 2020
- A truly inspirational story
- Engaging and relatable
- Contains powerful messages about resilience and not letting limitations define you
✖️Not necessarily educational about snowboarding itself (though there are plenty of life lessons!)
This one was recommended by one of our readers (thanks Mike). It is now one of my all-time favorite snowboarding books!Â
I was profoundly moved by the author’s incredible story of returning to snowboarding despite losing their sight. The narrative is not just about snowboarding; it’s a powerful testament to human resilience and the will to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.Â
And it’s not all doom and gloom either – the author manages to sprinkle in plenty of humour. Big fan.
Author: Hannah Teter & Tawnya Schultz
Published: December 2012
- Clear illustrations & diagrams
- Techniques for all abilities
- Authored by Olympic gold medalist Hannah Teter, offering valuable insights from a professional perspective.
✖️Might overwhelm beginners (given the content depth)
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This is the best option if you’re looking for more of a “snowboarding guide”. It’s packed with useful tips about gear, tricks, strategies and progression.
What really stood out to me was the depth and clarity of Hannah Teter’s technical knowledge. As an Olympic and X Games medalist, her expertise shines through on every page.
The way she breaks down complex snowboarding techniques into understandable and actionable advice is incredibly valuable.
This book isn’t just a collection of tips; it’s like having a personal coaching session with one of the sport’s best.
Author: Jeff Curtes
Published: November 2014
- Stunning photographs
- A unique insider's perspective
- Diverse locations and athletes
- A snapshot into our roots (as snowboarders)
✖️Minimal narrative - this book focuses on the visuals
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This book almost has it all. Mind-blowing photography, a great insight into the sport, and inspirational content. If that’s not enough for you, you’ll also get stories from some of the most well-known snowboarders on earth including Kau Kakubo, Jason Brown, and more.Â
Jeff Curtes’ ability to bring the spirit of snowboarding to life on each page makes this a very easy book to recommend!
Author: Michael Goodwin
Published: January 2020
- An insight into a legendary mag!
- Epic photography and visuals
- Explores snowboarding culture at it's very finest
✖️A little more relevant to an European audience (though I'm sure plenty of our USA audience will remember Method)
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I should really use the full title…
“Hold Fast, Tweak Hard: Ingenuity, insanity and 25 years of European Snowboarding’s most infamous title, Method Magazine”.
The older riders amongst us (myself included) will no doubt remember Method Magazine.It’s legendary centrefolds were the pinnacle of 90’s snowboarding media.
This book chronicles the magazine’s journey and its role in shaping European snowboarding culture.
The rich blend of historical context, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes from snowboarding legends offers a compelling and comprehensive view of the sport’s evolution.
Author: Nick Appl
Published: October 2015
- Motivation and thought-provoking
- Love the super readable bite-sized format
- Does a great job of connecting snowboarding with broader life lessons
✖️Look elsewhere for technical snowboarding advice
Snowboarding is full of highs, lows, and everything in between. This book dives into the depths of snowboarding, unpacks the journey we all go on as snowboarders, explores the importance of discipline, and asks what snowboarding can teach you about life.
If you like a bit of depth and want to learn a bit about the world, snowboarding, life, and yourself – this is the book for you!
What Makes A Good Snowboard Book?
When picking up a snowboarding book, very few riders are looking for a lengthy novel. Most good snowboarding books will be relatively concise, focusing on a single aspect of riding.Â
Then you have the more visual books. These are often based on a decade or so of snowboarding photography. The visuals are therefore epic. This type of book is a surefire way to stay stoked in the off-season.Â
Conclusion
Even if you read just one of these books, you won’t be disappointed!
The next time you’re travelling or simply want a good book to read, take a look at one or two of the books on this list.
Alternatively, you could just keep reading this blog.
Happy riding!
3 comments
Just ordered them all! will drop my own reviews here
Awesome article. I’ve added all of these to my reading list. Have you considered writing a snowboard book yourself?
Hey Logan – I have actually. With details on how to plan a ski season and the best snowboarding jobs in the mountain etc. Not sure how big an audience it would garner though…