This combination balances the increased comfort and maneuvering ability of soft boots with the increased stability of hard boots. Since each boot style places the body under different stresses, knowing the type of boot worn is important in determining the risk of injury. Most snowboard bindings are non-releasable. Soft bindings are molded plastic shells with buckle systems that are used with soft boots and include a high back to give extended Achilles tendon support. The plate-type bindings consist of a steel and plastic base plate with heel and toe clips and are typically used with hard boots.
Safety equipment includes helmets, face guards, goggles, forearm guards and wrist guards.
Unfortunately, safety equipment is rarely used by recreational snowboarders. Although advanced snowboarders may try more dangerous maneuvers such as jumps and other aerial tricks, beginning snowboarders are the most frequently injured. Jumps are the second most common cause of injuries and may be associated with head, facial, spinal and abdominal injuries. 4 Collisions are associated with 5 to 10 percent of injuries. Severe injuries that require referral to a tertiary trauma center are rare.