Finding your ideal snowboard stance width can be tricky.
Especially when you’re just starting out.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, our snowboard stance width chart is a helpful starting point.
Narrow down your options and find a solid foundation. You can then tweak your setup along the way.
Snowboard Stance Width Charts
| Height | Recommended Stance Width (inches) |
|---|---|
| Less than 5’1″ | 17-19″ |
| 5’2″-5’4″ | 19-21″ |
| 5’5″-5’8″ | 20-22″ |
| 5’9″-6′ | 21-23″ |
| 6’1″-6’4″ | 22-24″ |
| Over 6’4″ | 23-25″ |
| Height (cm) | Recommended Stance Width |
|---|---|
| <155 | 43-48 cm |
| 156-163 | 48-54 cm |
| 164-172 | 48-56 cm |
| 173-184 | 53-58 cm |
| 185-193 | 56-61 cm |
| 193+ | 58-63.5 cm |
The Key To Snowboard Stance Width
Okay, so you’ve checked the charts but need a little more guidance?
When it comes to finding the ideal snowboard stance width, it’s essential to consider your body proportions, riding style, and personal preference.
Keep reading to learn the “science” of snowboard stance width…
The Definition Of Snowboard Stance Width
Snowboard stance width refers to the distance between the bindings on a snowboard. It’s usually measured from the center of one binding to the center of the other.
Stance width is an essential but often overlooked aspect of snowboard set up. It will significantly affect your balance, control, and overall performance.
How To Measure Snowboard Stance Width
To measure your snowboard stance width, use a flexible tape measure to determine the distance from the center of one binding to the center of the other. The easiest method is to measure the mounting screw holes before the bindings are fitted (pictured).
When measuring, remember to measure the screw holes in between the ones you’ll be using. This represents your snowboard stance width much more accurately.
The picture below demonstrates a 21″ stance width, which also happens to be the snowboard’s reference stance.
Wide vs Narrow Snowboard Stance
Narrow Stance: Faster and easier turn initiation. However, less stable, particularly on jumps.
Wide Stance: More stable, easier to float the nose in powder. However, less agile and harder to turn.
A narrower stance width generally provides greater maneuverability and agility, making it easier for freestyle riders to perform tricks, jumps, and jibs.
On the other hand, a wider stance width offers increased stability, which is often favored by freeride and powder enthusiasts.
Of course, as with everything in snowboarding, there’s a huge amount of personal preference.
Hardcore park riders might adopt massive 25″ stances. Admittedly, this can increase ollie power (by increasing leverage over the tail). However, your knee joints won’t thank you. Trust me!
How Do I Know If My Snowboard Stance Is Too Wide?
If your snowboard stance is too wide, you may experience pain in your joints, limited mobility and difficulty turning the board.
Some other warning signs are:
- Uneven Pressure on your edges. If your stance is too wide, you may have difficulty evenly distributing pressure between your toe and heel edges. This imbalance can affect your ability to initiate turns and make it harder to maintain stability.
- Inward knee flexion. Your knees turn inwards when bending down. This reduces edge-hold and turning ability. It’s also painful!
How Do I Know If My Snowboard Stance Is Too Narrow?
If your snowboard stance is too narrow, you are likely to experience reduced stability, unstable landings, toe or heel drag and difficulty initiating jumps.
Some other warning signs are:
- Reduced Ollie Height: Due to increased difficulty initiating pop from the tail.
- Reduced Float in Deep Powder: Due to difficulty keeping the nose up.
- Reduced Control: As your weight is distributed over the centre, you will notice limited control towards the nose/tail. This can lead to edge-catching and falls.
The Average Snowboard Stance Width
A stance width just beyond shoulder width apart provides an excellent combination of stability and jumping power.
For most boards, this falls within an inch of the reference stance width.
The Snowboard Reference Stance Width
The reference stance width refers to the default or recommended stance width provided by the snowboard manufacturer. You’ll find these printed between the inserts on most snowboards.
This is often based on average measurements and serves as a starting point.
Should I Use The Snowboard Reference Stance Width?
Sometimes. However, the reference stance width is not necessarily your perfect fit. Your preferences, body proportions and riding style might vary significantly.
For example: A tall, skinny rider will use a much shorter board than a heavier rider of the same height. The board’s reference stance width will therefore be way too narrow for them.
Instead, you should use our snowboard stance width chart, alongside the snowboard sizing calculator.
Experimentation is Key!
Remember, snowboarding is all about finding what works best for you; don’t be afraid to mix things up!
First, start with a stance width based on the chart. From there, it’s all about feeling it out.
Stand on your board, shift your weight, and pay attention to the board’s response.
Adjust accordingly until you find your sweet spot.
Factors to Consider: Let's Break It Down
1. Riding Style
Your preferred snowboarding discipline plays a crucial role in determining your ideal stance width. Some freestyle riders prefer narrower stances for better maneuverability and control. On the other hand, freeride enthusiasts often opt for wider stances to enhance stability and float in deep powder.
2. Body Proportions
No two riders are exactly alike, and that’s the beauty of it. When it comes to stance width, consider your body’s unique proportions. Are you tall or on the shorter side? Do you have wider hips or narrower hips? These factors will impact your center of gravity and balance – adjust your stance width accordingly.
3. Comfort and Control
You need to feel comfortable and in control on your board. Experiment with different stance widths. You’re looking for natural movements and efficient edge-to-edge transitions.
4. Terrain
Keep in mind that different terrain may call for slight variations in stance width. You might prefer different setups on park and powder days for example. Stay adaptable.
How To Adjust Your Snowboard Stance Width
Now that you’ve found a stance width that feels comfortable, fine-tune it to perfection.
Start by making very small adjustments. Move your bindings closer together or farther apart by increments of half an inch or less (one “screw-hole” on the insert pack).
Remember to move both bindings in/out by the same amount, otherwise you’ll no longer be properly centered on the board. If you move the front binding in and the back binding out, the width stays the same but you’re adding setback. Avoid this unless you’re facing a particularly deep powder day.
Pay close attention to how each adjustment affects your balance and control. Don’t be afraid to spend some time on the mountain experimenting with different widths.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Copying Others: Even though your favorite pro rider rocks a super-wide stance, it might not work for you. Use their setup as inspiration, but trust your own instincts and listen to your body.
Ignoring Feedback: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Pay attention to any discomfort, strain, or lack of control.
Neglecting Binding Angles: While stance width is crucial, don’t overlook the importance of binding angles. Play around with angles to find the setup that complements your stance width and style. But only change one thing at once!
These are the best binding angles for beginners if you get stuck.
Final Thoughts
You now have the knowledge and tools to find your perfect snowboard stance width.
Remember – start with the snowboard stance width chart, experiment, and trust your body’s feedback.
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below.
Otherwise… happy riding!
