The smell of fresh pine, the soft whisper of snow underfoot, and the exhilarating rush of falling down a mountain—these are the elements that make snowboarding more than just a sport.
And with the sport, comes the gear!
In my ongoing quest to find the best brands out there, the name “ThirtyTwo” kept popping up.
Was ThirtyTwo as good as the buzz suggested? Is thirtytwo a good brand?
I decided to find out!
After several decades in the snowboard industry, ThirtyTwo still stand out as one of the best snowboard clothing brands. Their blend of quality gear and environmental initiatives makes them a top choice for any snowboarder.
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post, these are my own honest opinions. There are some affiliate links in the article though, which may earn me a commission if you make a purchase (at no cost to you).
An Introduction to the Brand
Established in 1995, ThirtyTwo has been on the scene for more than a couple of decades. The longevity of a brand in such a competitive market is, in itself, a testament to their credibility.
But I wanted more than just history; I wanted firsthand experience.
Let the testing begin!
Into the Boots
Boots being the core of ThirtyTwo’s offerings, I took the plunge and invested in a pair.
Which model? The legendary 32 Lashed of course!
I opted for the laced version (pictured), for optimal customization and a throwback to my early snowboarding days.
Slipping them on, the fit was snug but surprisingly comfortable. Their “out of the box” comfort is one of the things that ThirtyTwo prides themselves on.
On the slopes, their lightweight design was awesome, giving a sense of freedom without compromising on the crucial support that snowboarding demands. My heels felt super locked in too.
The added bonus?
The heat-molding tech in their liners. This ensured a tailored fit specific to my foot shape. I had them heat molded in store, but you can do it at home or allow the process to happen naturally over time.
The only downside for me is the larger outer sole. Being a size 10.5, I’m right on the cusp of most snowboard binding sizes. I tend to aim for a more slimline boot so I can choose smaller bindings. I appreciate this is a very niche problem though, unlikely to affect you!
An Outerwear Overview
And let’s not forget their outerwear.
ThirtyTwo entered the outerwear game more recently, but have really honed in on their own unique style.
They are very snowboarder-focused, offering a loose and flexible fit.Â
They use proprietary tech, such as their 32 Repel 25k material – rivalling Gore-Tex in terms of breathability and waterproofing (but at a much better price point).Â
I personally own both their TM3 Jacket (pictured) and the spring break powder bib. Both have held up super well to abuse (regular bails during sloppy spring park sessions) and fit really nicely.
They’re a little heavier than the more expensive Gore-Tex products, but nothing that makes a significant performance difference.
Sustainability in Focus
Beyond their products, what stood out was ThirtyTwo’s commitment to the environment.
I was pleasantly surprised to learn about their eco-friendly initiatives. Using recycled materials, reducing waste, and their tree planting program. This reflects a brand ethos that aligns with my own values (yes, I’m becoming a hippie).
They also have a strict ethical policy, fighting against unethical manufacturing processes such as sweatshops.Â
In an era where sustainability is crucial, ThirtyTwo’s dedication deserves a nod.
The ThirtyTwo Team
You’ll notice from the extensive number of pro-inspired models, ThirtyTwo have an impressive roster.Â
Legendary riders like Jeremy Jones, JP Walker, Scott Stevens, Chris Bradshaw and Zen Powell have been with 32 for years.Â
Of course, they’re sponsored by the brand, but no pro-snowboarder would put up with bad gear for this long for the sake of sponsorship.Â
Value for Money
When it comes to value for money, ThirtyTwo really hits the mark. Are they one of the cheaper brands out there?
Nope!Â
But they do offer reasonable prices given the quality of their products.Â
Their products, especially their boots, are more durable than most, making the initial investment a little less painful.
It’s refreshing to see a brand offer premium quality without the exorbitant price tag.
My Verdict
So, is ThirtyTwo a good brand?
After weeks of putting my boots to the test, my verdict is clear. Not only do they provide top-notch gear, but their environmental initiatives also make them a brand I’m proud to support.
If you’re on the lookout for snowboarding gear that’s both reliable and eco-conscious, ThirtyTwo might just be your perfect match.