Snowboarding is a blend of adventure, thrill, and skill. Whether tackling powder-filled backcountry or groomed trails, the right tools can elevate your time on the mountain. From tracking your progress to finding the best routes and sharing your experience with friends, here are the top snowboarding apps for your next adventure.
1. Ski Tracks
Ski Tracks is a must-have for snowboarders who love to track their progress. This app records detailed stats, including distance, speed, altitude, and vertical descent. It works offline, so even if you’re deep in the backcountry, it continues tracking your data without needing a cell signal. Ski Tracks even generates maps of your runs, helping you see exactly where you’ve been. The data is also presented user-friendly, perfect for checking your records or comparing your stats with friends.
2. OpenSnow
Knowing the weather and snow conditions is essential for a great day on the slopes. OpenSnow provides detailed forecasts for ski resorts worldwide, with information on snowfall, temperature, and wind conditions. The app offers personalized alerts so you’ll always know when fresh powder is expected. OpenSnow’s team of meteorologists provides localized insights and snow forecasts, which are helpful for planning the best days to ride. If you’re on the hunt for powder days, OpenSnow will be your new best friend.
3. FATMAP
Exploring backcountry routes requires careful planning and navigation. FATMAP is an adventure mapping app that offers high-resolution 3D maps for off-piste routes, so you can scope out terrain, altitude, and risk factors. With FATMAP, you can view slopes in three dimensions, helping you plan safe lines and spot potentially dangerous areas, like cliffs or avalanche zones. For snowboarders venturing beyond the resort, FATMAP is invaluable. The app also includes GPS tracking, so you’ll always know your exact location, even in remote areas.
4. Slopes
Slopes is designed specifically for skiers and snowboarders, offering GPS tracking and detailed stats on your performance. It breaks down information like speed, distance, time, and altitude in real time. With Slopes, you can get a full analysis of your day on the mountain, and it automatically generates a 3D map of your routes. It’s particularly popular for its interface and live tracking feature, allowing you to share your runs with friends or family in real time. The app even provides lift line wait times, so you can maximize your riding time.
5. Avalanche Forecasts
Safety is a top priority when heading into unmarked terrain. Avalanche Forecasts provides the latest avalanche warnings and risk assessments in various regions. It provides maps and terrain evaluations, and offers tips for identifying dangerous areas. This app helps snowboarders understand potential risks, making it a must-have for anyone exploring backcountry or off-piste trails. Combine Avalanche Forecasts with FATMAP to ensure you’re equipped with knowledge and safety measures.
6. Trace Snow
For riders who want to improve their technique, Trace Snow provides analytics that go beyond the basics. Trace Snow tracks every detail, from airtime on jumps to vertical descent, helping snowboarders gauge their performance and skill level. The app offers advanced statistics for speed, carving angles, and even calories burned, so you can see how each run stacks up. It’s a great tool for riders who want to work on their style and make each run better than the last.
7. GoPro Quik
Want to capture every moment of your ride? GoPro Quik is the go-to app for action sports enthusiasts who use GoPro cameras. The app automatically edits your videos, syncing clips to music and creating highlight reels from your footage. It’s an easy way to relive and share your snowboarding adventures with friends. GoPro Quik can turn even short runs into cinematic experiences, making it ideal for riders looking to document their time on the slopes.
Snowboarding apps have come a long way, offering tools that help riders monitor conditions, track their progress, and ensure safety. Equipping yourself with these apps can enhance your snowboarding experience, making it more engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re tracking stats, exploring new terrain, or just capturing memories, these apps bring something valuable to every snowboarder’s toolkit.
