Snowboarding is a great sport that can be enjoyed by just about anyone. It’s simple to learn, and you can begin enjoying it right away after a few lessons. But as with any sport, there are some important things to know to make your first days snowboarding a bit easier on the trails. Wearing the right clothing is key but there is often one overlooked piece of snowboard gear, impact shorts. Learn why impact shorts are one of the best pieces of gear to have for new snowboarders.
What Are Snowboard Impact Shorts?
New snowboarders quickly learn the importance of protecting their knees, and especially their hips, when they take a fall. Impact shorts are one way to help reduce the risk of injury to the hips and butt. But what are they?
Impact shorts are padded undergarments that help protect your hips, thighs, and tailbone in the event of a fall. They are made to have padding in key areas. Impact shorts can be worn under any type of clothing, so they are a great option for those who want extra protection and no one else will even know you are wearing them. They are the short version of snowboard crash pants.
Many snowboarders find that wearing impact shorts helps them feel more confident when riding and reduces the risk of injuries. If you’re looking for an added layer of safety while snowboarding, consider investing in a pair of impact shorts.
3 Reasons New Snowboards Should Wear Impact Shorts
There are a few things that you can do to help reduce your risk of injury when starting out as a new snowboarder, including wearing impact shorts. Here are three reasons why you should wear impact shorts when snowboarding:
1. Impact shorts help protect your hips from injuries.
2. Impact shorts help protect your tailbone from injuries.
3. Impact shorts can increase your confidence as a new rider.
It’s inevitable that you’ll fall as a new snowboarder but having the right gear will make you less likely to quit. A lot of beginners quit learning because the falls hurt. That’s the truth in the matter. Wear impact shorts and you are already starting off better than most people.
Picking Impact Shorts: Sizing
When it comes to buying snowboard impact shorts, it is important to get the right size. If they are too small, you’ll be uncomfortable all day. If they are too large, they may not stay in place during a crash and will be sliding around. To find the right size for you, measure your waist and compare it to the size chart on the manufacturer’s website.
If you are between sizes, it is usually best to go with the smaller size. This is because the shorts will be tighter and will stay in place better during a crash.
No matter what size you choose, make sure that the shorts fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose.
Are Impact Shorts The Best Piece of Gear for New Snowboarders?
The short answer is yes. Impact shorts are the best gear for new snowboarders along with a helmet. They provide protection from falls and help prevent injuries.
Another benefit of impact shorts is that they help keep you warm on cold days. If you are just starting out, be sure to wear a good pair of impact shorts every time you hit the slopes. You’ll be thanking yourself when you fall, not if you fall.
Brands of Impact Shorts
A few of the best brands for impact shorts are Burton, Demon and Triple 8. You are probably already familiar with Burton even if you are a beginner. Demon protection gear is a little less known but is very good quality.
Demon impact shorts are just as good, if not better than Burton impact shorts. Whichever you go with, any impact shorts are better than not wearing any at all.
Final Thoughts on Impact Shorts
In conclusion, snowboard impact shorts are a great way to protect your body from injuries. They are comfortable and easy to wear, and they can help you stay safe while snowboarding. You might feel a bit goofy at first but remember, nobody will know you are wearing impact shorts and a lot more people are wearing impact shorts than you think on the slopes!
About the Author: Jack Dabbs is a lifelong snowboarder and the content manager over at the Proper Peaks team. He has snowboarded at 47 resorts and is counting more each winter.
