The best snowboard gear for kids, as chosen by the Whitelines Team.
Kids’ snowboards have come a long way over the past few seasons. For starters, there’s plenty of choice. Not so long ago only a few of the big brands bothered to produce snowboards for young riders, but as the original generation of shredders has gained a middle aged spread and begun spawning, demand has grown.
At the same time, attitudes have shifted regarding the age that children can begin learning to snowboard. It was once accepted as fact that kids should learn to ski first, because it is supposedly safer and easier; these days instructors offer lessons in standing sideways to grommets as young as three. As well as catering to this market, brands like Burton (who host annual ‘Riglet’ events) have realised the importance of promoting snowboarding to the next generation.
“Remember, knee deep for you is waist deep for them!”
All this has resulted in a plethora of awesome kids’ kit. Sure, the old formula of shrinking it, softening it and shoving a cartoon graphic on it still works to a point, but with the advent of flat, hybrid and reverse camber kids can master their turns with less fear of catching an edge. There are even some progressive powder shapes in the mix to get your little one hooked on the greatest pleasure snowboarding has to offer, without the tears that come with back leg burn or tomahawks – and remember, knee deep for you is waist deep for them!
High time, then, that we put the best kids’ snowboards through their paces. We assembled a crew of keen young shredders based in the mountains – aka The Whitelines Grom Team – and arranged for them try out a variety of models. The riders reviewed the kit in their own words, and their parents also relayed their own observations about how they got on.
PRICE: $359.95 / €349.95 SIZES: 130, 135, 140, 140W FLEX: 3 SHAPE: True Twin PROFILE: Camber 3D: Yes BASE: Sintered NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Bataleon Stuntwood:
Bataleon’s forgiving 3BT shaping teams with a playful flex to create the perfect progression platform – plus that paint-splatter graphic absolutely pops.
Who is the Bataleon Stuntwood for?
Aspiring park rats will appreciate the Stuntwood’s mellow flex and catch-free riding, which builds confidence on rails and jumps alike.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
A low camber profile provides natural spring without being too aggressive, while Bataleon’s signature 3BT tech lifts the contact points off the snow, eliminating all but the most heinous of edge catches. Urethane FlexWalls dampen vibrations for smoother landings, and the Core Core construction uses poplar with beech stringers for a responsive yet forgiving feel that won’t punish mistakes.
PRICE: $359.95 / €349.95 SIZES: 132, 135, 138, 141, 144, 147 FLEX: 4 SHAPE: True Twin PROFILE: Hybrid Camber 3D: Yes BASE: Extruded NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Rome Slapstick:
Rome’s reshaped youth twin delivers genuine freestyle performance in a smaller package, with 3D shaping helping to deliver catch-free progression for aspiring park destroyers.
Who is the Rome Slapstick for?
Young rippers with eyes on being the next Ståle and who have outgrown their beginner board. If they’re ready to get airborne, they’re ready for the Slapstick.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
Contact Camber blends underfoot grip with rocker at the tips for playful yet controlled riding. The Twin Diamond 3D shaping smooths turns and reduces hang-ups while Bamboo HotRods provide pressable flex with plenty of snap. A durable extruded Impact Base handles the rails and anything else young shredders can throw at it.
PRICE: $199.95 / £219 / €229.95 FLEX: 1 LACING SYSTEM: BOA NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Nidecker Micron:
It’s a stylish, waterproof and supremely comfortable little boot. Plus, the inclusion of a BOA dial means independent groms can tighten their own laces without parental help – building confidence before they’ve even strapped in.
Who is the Nidecker Micron for?
Young riders who’ve graduated from rental boots and deserve some proper gear. It’s always wise to start with a good pair of boots, and the Microns are definitely that – they even boast a heat moldable liner for a perfect fit.
Tech Talk Lacing system, liner, flex characteristics and construction materials
The low-profile BOA M4 dial handles the outer shell while a simple Velcro closure secures the inner, making these easy for small hands to operate. Inside, the heat-moldable 3D liner provides excellent ankle support with J-bars that lock the heel in place, while the soft flex helps lighter riders control their boards more easily and dial those first turns with confidence.
PRICE: $139.95 / €130 / £120 SIZES: 90 FLEX: 1 SHAPE: True Twin PROFILE: Flat 3D: Yes BASE: Edgeless Extruded NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Burton Riglet:
The Riglet’s built-in tow rope and edgeless construction transform any low-friction surface into a learning zone – brilliant for building confidence before tackling actual slopes. Just watch them on the stairs! Who is the Burton Riglet for?
First-time riders aged three and up who need a gentle introduction to sliding sideways will thrive on this forgiving, parent-friendly learning tool. Trust us when we say that since its introduction 10 years ago, the Riglet has introduced a whole generation to the joy of snowboarding.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
Simple is better with the Riglet. Its Flat Top profile with Easy Bevel edges creates a super forgiving platform that won’t catch or punish mistakes. The grippy topsheet helps little boots stay planted while the built-in Riglet reel lets you tow them across snow, carpet, or grass for year-round practice sessions.
PRICE: $249.95 / €249.95 SIZES: 90, 100, 110, 120 FLEX: 3 SHAPE: True Twin PROFILE: Hybrid Camber 3D: Yes BASE: Extruded NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Rome Minishred:
That colourful graphic matched with genuinely forgiving tech creates the perfect first board – giving them plenty to look at on the chairlift while building confidence on snow.
Who is the Rome Minishred for?
Groms aged three and up need a board that inspires rather than intimidates, and this vibrant, catch-free twin delivers exactly that. Expect smiles all round.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
Rome’s low-rise Contact Camber with Twin Diamond 3D shaping creates an incredibly forgiving platform that won’t punish mistakes. The soft flex encourages progression while the extruded Impact Base handles any number of boxes, rails and clumsy drops without complaint.
Why we chose the Jones Twin Sister Junior:
This friendly all-mountain twin delivers proper performance in a package that won’t intimidate – perfect for building skills and (more importantly) stoke.
Who is the Jones Twin Sister Junior for?
Growing girls who want a taste of freedom. The Twin Sister Junior handles everything from piste laps to park sessions without being overly demanding or difficult to control.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
A CamRock profile pairs nose and tail rocker with camber between the bindings for playful turn initiation and solid edge grip. The directional twin shape feels natural riding forward while the Low 3D Contour Base and Low Traction Tech (aka wavy edges) enhance glide and control.
PRICE: $149.95 SIZES: 9K, 10K, 11K, 12K, 13K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the K2 Lil Mini:
Make sure your grom’s relationship with snowboarding gets off on the right foot (sorry) with a boot that wouldn’t look out of place in the adult line.
Who is the K2 Lil Mini for?
Given the features (and the price), this is one for the young rider that has moved past the earliest stages and looking to progress.
Tech Talk Lacing system, liner, flex characteristics and construction materials
The LED-augmented outsole will no doubt light up your kid’s day, but what sets the K2 Lil Mini apart is the ease of use, thanks to the integrated heat-mouldable liner and BOA dial.
Why we chose the Jones Mountain Twin Junior:
Based on a bonafide classic of the adult line, this versatile directional twin is paired with CamRock’s forgiving float to help groms progress across all terrain with genuine confidence.
Who is the Jones Mountain Twin Junior for?
Young shredders ready to explore beyond the bunny slope will froth on the Mountain Twin Junior – whether they’re ready to start hitting park features or follow in Jeremy Jones’s footsteps. They might have to wait a few years for the beard, though.
Tech Talk Shape, profile, sidecut and construction materials
The aforementioned CamRock profile combines rocker at the tips with camber underfoot for easy turn initiation and reliable pop. Jones’s Low 3D Contour Base smooths out edge transitions and bumps while their Traction Tech adds extra grip. A lightweight Master Core keeps things manageable for smaller riders.
PRICE: €54 SIZES: S, M, L NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Crab Grab Cinch Youth Mitt:
These have all the features you’d expect to find on an adult model, and no less.
Who is the Crab Grab Cinch Youth Mitt for?
These are best suited to the kid that is getting serious about their riding, and needs gear that can keep up – but don’t want to be drowning in grown-up gloves.
Tech Talk Materials, construction and features
The 15,000ml waterproofing combined with Primaloft insulation ensures these will hold up to just about anything. The grippy palm is ace too, and just the thing for getting those early grabs locked in.
PRICE: £40 / €49.95 / $64.95 LENS: Cylindrical SYSTEM: Standard SIZE: Youth Medium NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Giro Buster:
The Buster boasts proper optical performance that helps young riders see the whole mountain – including Expansion View Technology for maximum peripheral vision.
Who is the Giro Buster for?
Groms progressing from piste turns to park laps and/or who need a goggle that fits comfortably over glasses.
Tech Talk Lens, frame, and straps
The injection-molded cylindrical lens refines optics and reduces distortion compared to thermo-formed alternatives, while Expansion View Technology shaves down the frame rim for unparalleled peripheral vision. OTG-friendly engineering creates extra interior volume to accommodate prescription glasses comfortably, with increased airflow keeping vision crisp and fog-free. Triple-layer face foam with microfleece facing delivers comfort while blocking wind and cold, and seamless compatibility with Giro helmets ensures a proper fit.
The North Face Freedom Insulated Kids’ Jacket 2025-2026
PRICE: £135 SIZES: 2Y, 3Y, 4Y, 5Y, 6Y, 7Y NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the The North Face Freedom Jacket:
Warm and dry kids are happy kids – skimp on outerwear, and you risk ending their snowboarding journey before it’s really begun. The North Face has them covered – literally.
Who is the The North Face Freedom Jacket for?
Unisex style, range of colours, and no compromise on quality, especially in the weatherproofing stakes… we don’t think there’s a kid out there that won’t get along with this.
Tech Talk Materials, construction and features
The North Face Freedom jacket uses the same ‘DryVent’ fabric seen on the adult range. As the name suggests, it’s also warm enough to withstand a peak-winter cold snap.
Buy the The North Face Freedom Insulated Kids’ Snowboard Jacket 2025-2026: from $159.95 at evo.com
smith scout junior mips snowboard helmet 2025-2026
Smith Scout Jr. MIPS Kids’ Helmet 2025-2026
PRICE: €110 / £105 / $110 SIZES: S, M, L MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Smith Scout Jr. MIPS:
Dual-certified for snow and bike means this bomber hardshell helmet handles year-round progression, while Mips protection delivers proper impact tech without the premium price.
Who is the Smith Scout Jr. MIPS for?
Young riders who are ready to step up to the bigger slopes – and perhaps the park – need a helmet that balances protection with comfort. Enter the Smith Scout Jr.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
Advanced ABS hardshell construction provides impact protection and all-around durability, while the Mips Brain Protection System reduces rotational forces from angled impacts. Smith’s self-adjusting ‘lifestyle fit’ flexes to match head shapes for maximum comfort, removable ear pads let you adjust the warmth level according to the conditions, and eight fixed vents maintain consistent airflow. AirEvac ventilation integrates with Smith goggles for fog-free vision throughout the day.
PRICE: £25 / $35 SIZES: S, M, L NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Smith Scout Jr. MIPS:
When it comes to keeping kids’ hands warm, don’t cut corners with a cheap pair, lest you put them off the snow for good. DaKine, on the other hand, is a safe bet.
Who is the Smith Scout Jr. MIPS for?
Any parent who wants an easy life… They’re also available in a range of styles, so it’ll be easy to find a pair they like.
Tech Talk Materials, construction and features
The High-quality fleece lining ensures these are warm and comfy, and the long gaiter can be put over or under the jacket. Praise be, they’re also machine washable.
PRICE: €169.95 / £145 /$159.95 SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL CATEGORY: Insulated WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 10K/10K NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the 686 Frontier Insulated Bib:
The Youth Evolution sizing system means these bibs grow with your grom, delivering excellent value alongside proper mountain protection.
Who is the 686 Frontier Insulated Bib for?
Growing riders whose parents appreciate gear that lasts multiple seasons while providing legitimate mountain performance and warmth.
Tech Talk Fit, features, materials and construction
The Frontier features 80g infiLOFT insulation and 10K waterproofing from PFAS-free recycled fabric. Youth Evolution sizing extends the legs, while reinforced kick panels handle rental boot abuse. The three colour options (green, blue and black) are on point – as is the bib style itself, which does a way better job of keeping the snow out as they progress.
The North Face Freedom Insulated Kids’ Snowboard Pants 2025-2026
PRICE: £90 / $109.95 SIZES: 6Y, 7/8Y, 10Y, 12Y, 14/16Y CATEGORY: Insulated NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants:
Those first steps into snowboarding are hard on the knees, and the bum. Keep your young charge happy by wrapping them in pants that can handle it all.
Who is The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants for?
Any youngster, really, especially those who like a bit of extra heat retention. With different cuts available for boys and girls, make sure you get the right one.
Tech Talk Fit, features, materials and construction
The hems of the North Face Freedom Insulated pants can be extended to grow with your grom, and the insulation will prevent any early finishes in particularly cold conditions.
PRICE: £99.99 / $78-$98 LENS: Spherical SYSTEM: Standard SIZE: Youth Medium NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Smith Grom:
The Grom’s ChromaPop lens tech delivers the same contrast-boosting clarity as adult Smith goggles, helping young riders read the terrain properly while they dial their skills.
Who is the Smith Grom for?
Growing shredders who need proper optical performance rather than toy-grade kit (in other words, every kid!) will appreciate Smith’s signature fog-free vision. They’re compatible with glasses, too, so four-eyed groms are in luck.
Tech Talk Lens, frames and straps
A spherical Carbonic-x lens provides distortion-free optics with impact resistance, while Fog-X anti-fog treatment keeps vision clear all day. Dual-slide strap adjustment makes sizing simple, and the silicone-backed strap stays put during tumbles. Two-layer face foam wicks moisture away while a floating foam membrane eliminates temple pressure for those wearing glasses underneath. Available in tons of frame colour, lens and strap combinations to match any kit (and the pickiest of kids).
PRICE: £80.00 / €99.95 / $109.95 SIZES: S, M, L MIPS: Yes NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No
Why we chose the Giro Crue MIPS:
Hardshell durability meets Mips rotational impact protection in a package that young park riders can dial in quickly, even with gloves on.
Who is the Giro Crue MIPS for?
Junior shredders ready to progress beyond the basics with a helmet that combines proper protection with easy adjustment and solid ventilation.
Tech Talk Materials, construction, features and safety certs
Hardshell construction bonds a rugged outer shell to the EPS foam liner for durability at an accessible price point, while integrated MIPS technology reduces rotational forces in certain impacts. The In Form Fit System uses an ergo-friendly dial at the helmet’s base for up to 6cm of adjustment that works easily with gloves on. Stack Vent Technology aligns with goggle vents to prevent fogging, while Vertical Tuning accommodates different goggle shapes for a perfect fit (cos even kids don’t deserve a gaper gap).
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