Snowboarding quickly became popular among younger winter sports enthusiasts and is rapidly gaining older adherents. Consider these facts about snowboarding. (For more information, please see our Equipment and Snowboarding Links pages.)

• It’s not just for kids: In the 2004-2005 season, there were 6.6 million snowboarders and 5.9 million skiers. Snowboarding is one of the fastest growing sports and is gaining in popularity among adults. In fact, The New York Times suggests that 825,000 Americans 35+ years old are snowboarders. Add in those aged 30-34, and the number surpasses one million. See this article on adult snowboarders in Competitor Magazine.
• It’s easy and fun to learn: Most people who have tried it will tell you snowboarding is easier than skiing. Sound crazy? It’s true. Snowboarding has a steep learning curve and after only a few days, you might find yourself snowboarding at a level that takes years to achieve in skiing.
• It’s healthy: "The temptation [for midlife adults] is to opt for stuff that seems fun or easy, especially if you are getting run ragged at the office. But studies indicate you will likely be happier if you make a point of trying activities that are enriching or challenging, such as volunteering or taking up a new exercise program."
  -- Wall Street Journal, 5 October 2005.
• It’s easy on your body: “'It feels like you're gliding. It feels like you're floating,'' says Jeff Dugas, 41, who snowboards with his son, Jordan, 10. Mr. Dugas is part of a growing group of older adults that the ski industry said have started riding boards, long regarded as a pursuit for the young, hip and radical. Many take up the sport to bond with their snowboarding children, some are looking for another cold-weather sport and others are veteran skiers, crossing over because snowboarding makes moderate mountains like Connecticut's more exciting. And, knees, worn from years of skiing, have also coaxed older skiers onto boards.”
  - New York Times, 30 January 2005
• Comfort and Relaxation: Without poles, your hands are free and relaxed and this in turn relaxes your entire upper body. Snowboarding boots are soft, warm and easy to walk in. In addition, it’s easy to just sit down to take in the beauty of the mountain and the fresh air. Without any awkward twisting of your hips and knees, a snowboarder lets the board carve back and forth across the mountain with minimal upper body movement required.
• Your friends and family will think you’re cool: We know you will likely take up snowboarding to keep active or challenge yourself. Nevertheless, when you can keep up with the neighborhood kids you will definitely increase your cool factor!