Ask the Expert
Clay S.
An inside look into expert snowboarder, Clay S. Clay shares exclusive insights on some of his favorite gear, terrain, and his most unpopular opinion about the sport.
EXPERT IN
SNOWBOARDING
TIME SPENT ON THE MOUNTAIN
13 Years
HOMETOWN
Shioctin, WI
Where on the mountain do you like to ride the most? What sort of board works best for that style of riding?
I really enjoy riding in the park. I love working on improving my skills and bag of tricks, so the park is the best place for progressing my skills. That being said, a freestyle or all-mountain board works best for that style. That will give you the best experience learning and having fun in the terrain park.
What are some key factors you look for when choosing a new snowboard?
It depends on what type of board I am looking for! I mostly ride park, so some key features I look for are the shape for true twin boards so I can ride switch. I found 155 cm is my sweet spot for the length of my board. I also consider flex ratings when choosing a new board. Having a board with more flexibility is personally more enjoyable for me to cruise around all-mountain, butters, and pressing on rails/boxes. I also like lighter and stronger materials in the base material to get an idea of how it should hold up throughout the season. And lastly, a snowboard must have cool graphics, am I right!?
It’s an epic powder day. What snowboard are you grabbing?
My current go-to powder snowboard is the Rossignol Sushi snowboard in the size 144. This is a fish shape directional pow board that is amazing for any surfy powder days. It is also very wide at the tip to stay on top of heavy snow easier. I also like the channel system that is within the core. If you hold it up in the light, you can see all the different channels throughout the board to make it much lighter.
The Salomon Huck Knife Pro is my go-to park board. This is a very popular snowboard in the community, and many professional and Olympic athletes also ride this snowboard. I personally love the Huck Knife because it is lightweight, durable, and has amazing pop for jumps and rails. I also really like the graphic designs that come out each season for the HK snowboard line. Definitely worth checking out if you want to get into the terrain park and advance your riding level.
The Salomon Huck Knife Pro is my go-to park board. This is a very popular snowboard in the community, and many professional and Olympic athletes also ride this snowboard. I personally love the Huck Knife because it is lightweight, durable, and has amazing pop for jumps and rails. I also really like the graphic designs that come out each season for the HK snowboard line. Definitely worth checking out if you want to get into the terrain park and advance your riding level.
What goes into picking your bindings?
My go-to brand for bindings has always been Union! For me when looking at bindings I like options that are fully customizable to fit my needs, easy replacement parts, and holds up for multiple seasons.
What do you look for in googles and helmets?
For goggles, I try and only look for wide-lens models that fit my face, so I am not seeing the frames while boarding. I get tunnel vision if the goggles are too small on my face. I have found great success with the Oakley Line Miners. They are the perfect fit for my face and have great lens tech to adjust to different light conditions. For Helmets, I try and find something very minimal and freestyle looking. I recently purchased a Giro Ledge helmet. I also enjoy wearing my goggles under my helmet so earpads need to be removable.
Do you prefer insulated jackets/pants or just a shell?
Personally, I would go for a shell over an insulated jacket. I like to wear layers that I can take off if needed throughout the day. Plus, when I am lapping in the terrain park, I tend to run hotter than just cruising on regular runs. I’m also from WI so I’m definitely used to cold and icy conditions.
Are you a bibs or pants kind of rider?
I’ve never had bibs myself! I would love to try them but tend to aim towards pants over bibs because of the better price points. Also, with Colorado’s warmer winter last season, I feel like I would get too hot lapping in the park with bibs. Bibs would be my go-to option for colder and snowy conditions for comfort and warmth.
What are your layering tips to stay comfortable on the mountain?
Long OTC snow socks are a must! Nothing is worse when your socks are too short for your boots and your skin rubs while out on the mountain. I normally wear long johns and just a t-shirt and sweatshirt under my shell jacket. On colder days, I like to add some thin glove liners in with my mitts to give that extra bit of warmth.
What board would you pick for someone who is getting into the sport and buying their first setup, but wants to be able to progress and grow with the board they buy?
If you are new to the sport and want a solid snowboard for progression and learning, I would recommend looking for a camber, twin, all-mountain snowboard. My current top choices are the Salomon Assassin, Capita DOA or Mercury, and the Ride Warpig!
How often should you wax your board?
Factory wax will be the best wax your board will have in its lifetime. How often you wax depends on how much you are out riding! I like to say once you notice your speed is becoming an issue or your base looks dry, get it waxed. Wax is a great way to keep your base moisturized and looking new, and it will allow your gear to perform to its best ability.
Check out Waxing and Tuning services at Christy Sports!
If you had to equate your snowboarding style to an animal, what would it be?
Maybe some type of cat? Leopards are cool, right? I’m always trying new things in the park and finding a way to land on my feet. I’m very unpredictable since I like to get creative and use the entire mountain as my playground each and every run.
What's your ideal Après scene?
Hot springs after a long day of riding in the mountains is my ideal Après activity. Let the muscles rest and relax while enjoying the amazing mountain views.
Do you have an unpopular opinion about snowboarding?
Goggles are worn under your helmet not above with the clip. Haha I know this is a very unpopular opinion but for me personally, I like how it looks, and it feels most comfortable for me when on the mountain.
