The Current State of the Snowboarding Industry: Trends, Challenges, and What’s Next

snowboarding has had its ups and downs over the past few years.

The snowboarding industry has experienced both triumphs and trials over the past few years. From record-breaking seasons to shifting consumer behavior, from technological innovations to environmental concerns, the state of snowboarding in 2024 is one of transition, adaptation, and, most importantly, growth. Whether you're a seasoned rider, a new snowboarder, or just someone who loves watching the sport, understanding the state of the industry is essential to getting the most out of your experience on the mountain. So, let’s dive into what’s happening in the world of snowboarding today.

1. The Snowboarding Resurgence: Coming Back Stronger Post-Pandemic

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused massive disruptions to the snow sports industry. Ski resorts closed, events were canceled, and riders were forced to adapt to a new world of isolation and virtual meetups. However, snowboarding has bounced back strongly since then.

Post-pandemic, snowboarding’s popularity has been on the rise, especially with younger generations. There’s been a resurgence of interest from Gen Z and millennials, both of whom have embraced snowboarding not just as a sport but as a lifestyle. From influencer culture to social media sharing (think TikTok and Instagram), snowboarding has been revitalized as a cool, adventurous, and accessible sport.

Many snowboarders were drawn to the sport for its rebellious and creative ethos—riding in the terrain park, learning new tricks, or venturing off-piste into backcountry terrain. With more people looking to reconnect with the outdoors and experience freedom in nature, snowboarding’s appeal is stronger than ever.

2. Rising Gear Innovation: The Tech Boom in Snowboarding

As snowboarding continues to grow, innovation in gear is happening at a faster pace than ever before. Gone are the days when choosing a snowboard was mostly about picking the right length and flex. Today, snowboards, boots, bindings, and outerwear all come with cutting-edge technologies designed to improve performance, comfort, and safety.

Smart gear is one of the most exciting trends currently reshaping the industry. Snowboards with embedded sensors that track speed, turns, and even terrain conditions are helping riders fine-tune their technique. Wearable tech is also on the rise, from smart helmets with built-in communication systems to snow goggles with augmented reality (AR)overlays that show real-time stats like speed and altitude.

Safety tech, particularly in the backcountry, is becoming more advanced. Avalanche airbags are now incorporating smart sensors to deploy automatically when a rider is in danger. There’s also an increase in smart beacons, which are more precise and easier to use, helping rescuers locate riders in the event of an avalanche.

At the same time, companies are focusing on sustainability, producing eco-friendly snowboards made from recycled materials or renewable resources. As more brands push for carbon-neutral production processes, the snowboarding industry is gradually aligning with the growing global emphasis on sustainability.

3. Sustainability: Snowboarding Faces an Environmental Reckoning

Despite its resurgence, the snowboarding industry faces significant environmental challenges. Climate change is impacting snow reliability, shortening seasons, and creating less predictable snow conditions. The industry's carbon footprint, largely driven by resort operations, production of gear, and travel, is under scrutiny.

Sustainability has become a major talking point, and many brands are stepping up their efforts to address it. Some of the leading brands in snowboarding—like Burton, Jones Snowboards, and Salomon—have already implemented initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. Burton, for example, has introduced a climate-positive production process, including using recycled plastic for bindings and minimizing waste during manufacturing.

But beyond gear, resorts are also adopting green practices. Many are investing in renewable energy sources, reducing their carbon footprint, and implementing measures to protect local wildlife and natural habitats. The push for eco-conscious snowboarding tourism is gaining momentum, with resorts and tour operators encouraging practices that minimize the environmental impact, such as limiting snowmobile use in backcountry areas and supporting low-impact travel.

The next decade will likely see more emphasis on climate-resilient resorts and even the development of synthetic snow that can be produced without the excessive water usage traditionally required for snowmaking.

4. The Backcountry Boom: More Riders Heading Off the Beaten Path

While traditional resort riding will always be at the heart of snowboarding culture, backcountry snowboarding has become a major trend in recent years. More riders are venturing beyond the ski resort boundaries in search of fresh powder and untouched terrain. The popularity of backcountry riding was accelerated by the pandemic, as more people sought safe, isolated outdoor experiences.

This shift has had a significant impact on the industry. Backcountry-specific gear—such as avalanche safety equipment, splitboards, and more durable outerwear—has seen an increase in demand. At the same time, avalanche education has become a key focus, with more riders seeking courses on avalanche safety, rescue techniques, and backcountry navigation.

The growth of backcountry snowboarding, however, also comes with challenges. The increased demand for backcountry access has raised concerns about overcrowding in remote areas, the environmental impact of human presence in sensitive ecosystems, and safety risks. To address these concerns, both snowboarding brands and resorts are focusing on education and safety initiatives, while government agencies are investing in more accessible and sustainable backcountry infrastructure.

5. The Changing Snowboarding Demographics: Inclusivity on the Rise

Another positive trend in the snowboarding industry is its growing inclusivity. Historically, snowboarding was seen as a male-dominated sport, but today, more women, people of color, and individuals from diverse backgrounds are participating in the sport. This change has been driven by increased representation in the media, inclusive gear options, and community efforts to make snowboarding more accessible and welcoming.

Initiatives like the SheJumps movement and Snowboarder Magazine’s diversity efforts have played key roles in getting more women involved in snowboarding. Snowboarding companies have also made strides in designing gear that better suits a variety of body types, skill levels, and preferences. Moreover, efforts to promote the sport within different communities, including offering programs that reduce the cost barrier to entry, are helping to open snowboarding up to a wider audience.

6. The Rise of Snowboard Parks and Events

While traditional alpine and freestyle disciplines remain popular, snowboard parks and events like the X Games, FIS World Cup, and local competitions continue to play a crucial role in the industry. Snowboard park innovations, like jibs, rails, and snowboard cross courses, have attracted younger riders and built a strong community around freestyle snowboarding.

The events circuit is evolving too, with an increased emphasis on inclusive competitions and athlete-driven activism. Athletes are using their platform to advocate for environmental issues, social change, and greater representation within the sport.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Snowboarding Looks Bright

The state of the snowboarding industry in 2024 is one of innovation, growth, and challenges. From the rise of tech-powered gear to a growing focus on sustainability and inclusivity, snowboarding is evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of riders. While challenges like climate change and access to safe backcountry terrain remain, the community's passion, resilience, and adaptability continue to push the sport forward.

If you’re looking to get involved or level up your riding this season, now is the time. With so much happening in the industry—whether it’s advancements in gear, new riding trends, or the broader shift toward environmental and social responsibility—there’s never been a better moment to hit the slopes, shred some powder, and be part of snowboarding’s exciting future.