Learning to snowboard is super exciting. But choosing the right snowboard size can be daunting, especially for beginners. You probably have a lot of questions. For starters, how long should a snowboard be?
The correct length of a snowboard depends on the rider’s height, weight, ability and riding style. The most accurate way to determine this is by using a snowboard size calculator.
Head straight to the calculator to find your personalized answer. Alternatively, I’ll explain in more detail below 🙂
How Long Should A Snowboard Be On Average?
The length of a snowboard is measured in centimeters (cm). Generally speaking, the length of your board should be proportional to your height, weight, and riding style. Choosing the right length will provide stability, control, and an appropriate flex profile.
As a general rule of thumb, average snowboard lengths typically range from around 140 cm to 165 cm for adults. The average intermediate to advanced male rider will opt for boards in the 155-165 cm range.
Most people will find a suitable board in this range. But there will of course be some outliers. So let’s take a look at the factors involved in snowboard length…
What Factors Affect Snowboard Length?
1. Height and Weight
Your height and weight are probably the two most important factors when choosing a snowboard.
The old-fashioned rule was that your board should reach between your chin and nose when standing on end. We now know this to be false!
If you’re tall but lightweight, you’d have ended up with a vastly over-sized board. This would have been difficult to control and limited your progression. On the other-hand, if you were short and a little heavier (like myself), then you’d be given a short snowboard. This would offer very poor edge hold.
For this reason, weight and height are just as important!
2. Riding Style
There are three main styles of riding: freestyle, all-mountain, and freeride. The snowboards needed for each discipline are completely different. Let’s take a look…
Freestyle: For tricks, rails and jumps, grab a shorter snowboard. A shorter board is more manoeuvrable and much easier to swing around during spins.
All-Mountain: This is for those riders who tackle the whole mountain. A medium-sized board provides a perfect balance of stability and maneuverability.
Freeride: If you love it steep and deep, you’re going to need a longer snowboard. This provides stability at speed and float in powder. You’ll also have a longer effective edge for those high-speed carves.
3. Ability Level
You snowboard skill level has a huge impact on how long your snowboard should be. Beginners usually opt for slightly shorter boards to allow easier turns. Conversely, expert riders often size up to provide stability at mach-speeds.
4. Personal Preference
Some rider’s throw out the rule book, riding snowboards far shorter than they ever should. This comes with experience and isn’t recommended!

Ultimately, once you’re experienced enough, you’ll get by on any sized snowboard. Even the 203cm monster pictured above!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right snowboard length is super important. The wrong sized board will massively set you back!
If you’re struggling to decide, don’t hesitate to seek advice from an experienced snowboarder (drop me a comment below) or a snowboarding professional.
You should also take a look at our snowboard advice section.
Happy riding!