Every single snowboarder has caught an edge at some point, from seasoned pros to complete beginners. It has happened to us all and it’s not a nice feeling.
It is most likely to occur when we’re learning to turn, before our bodies learn the muscle memory required to change edges smoothly and consistently.
In the meantime, there are ways to make it less likely to happen starting with equipment selection; specifically snowboard selection.
In this article, we’ll share with you our best beginner picks for snowboards that will help prevent edge catching.
If you need a refresher on what catching an edge means and an explanation on why it happens, check out our article “Why Do I Keep Catching an Edge on My Snowboard?” and then pop back to this one for some board recommendations.
Beginner Picks for Forgiving Snowboards
The best beginner snowboards that minimize the risks of catching an edge are boards with a hybrid profile with rockered tips and soft flex.
Read on for our recommendations by brand.
Burton Beginner Snowboards
Two snowboards stand out as great entry-level boards that will help with minimizing edge catches:
Burton Cultivator Flat Top 2027
$399.95
Where to buy:
Burton Instigator PurePop Camber 2027
$459.95
Where to buy:
The Instigator has traditional camber between the feet, which in my opinion makes it better for continued progression beyond the beginner stage.
Nidecker Beginner Snowboards
Nidecker has a selection of entry-level boards that will make it less likely to catch an edge while you’re learning to dial in your turns.
Nidecker Play 2027
$379.95
Where to buy:
Nidecker Cheat Code (Women's) 2027
$429.95
Where to buy:
Where to buy (Cheat Code Men's Snowboard):
Similar to the difference in the above-mentioned Burton boards, the Cheat Code has traditional camber between the bindings, making it a better choice for continued progression.
Another forgiving snowboard ideal for women or lighter riders is the Nidecker Elle.
Salomon Beginner Snowboards
Salomon has an interesting profile for their entry-level, “catch-free” snowboards. They use a flat profile with a slight bit of traditional camber under the bindings. The tips have a flat profile, meaning they’re less likely to catch.
Salomon Pulse
$399.95
Where to buy:
Salomon Lotus (Women's) 2027
$399.95
Where to buy:
These could be worth checking out!
Arbor Beginner Snowboards
Arbor has designed beginner boards with a full rocker profile to give a surfy feel and minimize edge catches. They’re beautiful and environmentally-consciously built boards.
Arbor Element Decon 2027
$479.95
Where to buy:
Arbor Element 2027
$479.95
Where to buy:
Rossignol Beginner Snowboards
Rossignol has designed two boards that are worth checking out for a catch-free ride:
Rossignol Ampage Vol.1 2027
$399.95
Where to buy:
Rossignol Ampage Vol.2 2027
$399.95
Where to buy:
These boards offer camber between the bindings and rocker at the tips, making them great choices for beginner through to intermediate ability levels.
Conclusion
Almost every brand makes some sort of entry-level, “catch-free” snowboard. The important things to keep in mind as you do your research are the profile, shape, and flex of the board.
Look for rockered tips, aka early-rise tips, and a soft flex. A twin shape is ideal for learning switch turns, which are a crucial skill for every snowboarder to have.
Beyond that, do your research and have fun while you’re at it! Try to find a company not only makes a great board with the specs you’re after, but that also aligns with your values.
Once you find a company you love, support them and do your part in maintaining the health of the beautiful ecosystem of board manufacturers that make up the fabric of snowboarding.
