As a beginner snowboarder, it’s natural to have many questions about the different elements and how to keep your balance on the snowboard. It’s logical to think that the snowboard binding will keep you standing and attach the snowboard to your feet. In tandem with this, a stomp pad, a piece of rubber or foam that provides additional grip, can be affixed to the snowboard.
Purpose
The surface of the snowboard tends to become slippery, especially when already exposed to the snow. A stomp pad is a grip that you can install on the top of the snowboard so you can step on it without slipping even when your foot is not strapped in the binding. When you go on and get off the lift, or when you’re just passing over a flat area of the slope, your back foot is usually unbuckled from the snowboard binding. That’s where you use a stomp pad. The rubber or foam sticks better with the standard snowboarding shoes.
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Advantage of Stomp Pads for Beginners
Handling and Control
Again, if you’re just starting with snowboarding, installing a snowboard stomp pad will help you handle and control the snowboard when your back foot is out of the binding. More experienced snowboarders don’t need to have stomp pads attached to their boards as they can easily control and maneuver their gear.
Removing Snow
Snow could get stuck at the bottom of your boot, and it has to be removed before clipping toad the binding. Instead of removing snow using your hand with your gloves on, you can use the stomp pad to scrape off the snow off your snowboard boots.
Types of Stomp Pads
There are different stomp pad materials that you can install on your snowboards to have the best options based on your preference.
Foam
If you’re looking for a cheap alternative for a stomp pad, foam is one of the best options for you. Another advantage of using this material is that you can easily cut it to adapt to your snowboard shape.
Rubber
A stomp pad made from rubber is a usual choice due to its flexibility, and it’s effortless to work with. The rubber can conform to the movement you want to perform, especially when doing jumps and tricks. Its flexibility feature allows you to achieve what you want to do with your snowboard.
Metal Stud
If foam and rubber stomp pads don’t give you the type of grip you are expecting, you can try installing metal studs individually. These studs can be placed conveniently in areas where your boot typically lands.
Skate Rails
The skate rails are two thin rails that you can install on the top sheet of the snowboard as another alternative as a stomp pad. These rails are attached next to the foot binding where you detach from the board. The rails have the same grip effect as the other stomp pads.
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Installing the Stomp Pads
After you decide which type of stomp pad best suits your snowboarding style, setting them properly is the next step to ensure it will work perfectly.
Installation Location
Snowboarders have their own comfortable spot to rest their feet on; that’s one point to consider when installing your own stomp pad. But ideally, because you use your rear boot when propelling while keeping your front foot in the binding, place the stomp pad between the two bindings once you can identify the spot where you are comfortable to set your foot when not in the bind.
Preparation
Attaching the stomp pads doesn’t take so much time. But that doesn’t mean you can just put it right there and then. You have to make sure that the surface where you will stick the pad is clean before installing. If your board recently took a ride with you, clear the snow and moisture using a microfiber cloth. If that doesn’t dry the board, let it sit for a while until it has completely dried. You can also use a hairdryer to make sure all the moisture is gone.
Installation
Different stomp pads have different installation instructions. You better read the instructions first before attaching the stomp pad of your choice to avoid inconveniences in setting up your snowboard. Most, if not all, stomp pads are equipped with adhesive. You need to peel off the sticky part from its back layer and apply the stomp pad to the board’s top sheet.
You can heat the adhesive for the best sticking result. If you’re using rubber or foam, roll the pad from one side to the other and try to remove all the air bubbles. Push down the stomp pad firmly onto the area where you prefer. Stand on it for several seconds to apply pressure and ensure the adhesive sticks well to the board. Drying time depends on the product.
Conclusion
A snowboard stomp is a great addition to your snowboard, especially if you’re a beginner. There are different material types that you can use base on your preference. The rubber and foam are the easiest ones to install. Typically, they have self-adhesive features for convenient installation.
Before attaching the stomp pads, you have to ensure that the boards are free of dirt, moisture, and debris. Find a suitable spot where you can put your one foot to control the snowboard. Ultimately it’s up to you where you will be more comfortable to place the stomp pad.
