A board, boots, bindings, and a helmet are the necessary gear for a snowboarder. There are also accessories like goggles and waterproof outerwear available, so each boarder can customize their look and gear. Ask your gear sellers what their favorite brands are, if you’re just starting out. “We are very rider-driven, so we literally ride all the brands that we sell,” says Petrocelli of his Backwoods team. Experienced snowboarders will be able to offer good advice on which brands and styles are optimal.

Despite the costs associated with gear and passes to the slopes, snowboarding doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. Backwoods accepts trade-ins on gear, so beginners who want to save a few bucks can pick up used boots, bindings, and boards. “It’s typically the same cost as two to four days of rental,” Petrocelli says. “Those who are confident they’re going to like it usually just jump in to some used gear.” The benefit of owning your own board, boots, and bindings is that it’s ready for you specifically every time you use it, rather than having to be adjusted by various people after each rental.

It’s a good idea to check with colleges and other organizations for deals as well. Students with a Central Maine Community College ID can get into Lost Valley in Auburn for free all winter long. “I know what I’ll be doing every Thursday before my night class,” says Chris Bubier, of Jay, a student at CMCC. Bubier has been snowboarding for about eight years. “It looks cooler than skiing and it gives me something to do in the winter that I enjoy,” he says.

Eric Lapointe, of Wales, has been snowboarding for five years and, as a first-year CMCC student, also plans to take advantage of the free season pass. “A lot of my friends snowboard, so it’s a good way to hang out with them,” Lapointe says. “It’s a lot of fun once you get to know what you’re doing.”

You don’t have to have any special skills to learn to snowboard. According to Petrocelli, most if not all of the ski mountains in Maine offer lessons and gear rentals for those who want to ease into the sport. “Lessons aren’t required or needed, but it’s a great way to get into the sport,” he says. “You can do weekly group lessons or more of a private lesson.” Those who are good at other board sports, like skateboarding, may have an even easier time picking up snowboarding skills.

Bubier and Lapointe have some tips for beginners. “Learn to stop first,” Bubier advises. It will cut down on falls and the potential for injuries. Lapointe would encourage beginners to keep their heads up. “You’re not going to be a professional your first couple of times out,” he says. “Don’t get discouraged.”

Petrocelli would encourage Mainers to also not get discouraged if they don’t see a ton of snow in their backyards during the winter. Snow conditions stay great at local mountains, with help from snow-making, and slopes are ready from November all the way through April sometimes. “The technology and snow-making is incredible,” he says. “It’s a longer season than most people think.”