Celeste Gallegos: Snowboard Expert
In 1995, Celeste Gallegos began her teaching career on the Oneida Indian Nation in upstate New York. This experience enabled her to find one of her greatest passions in life, teaching.
While living the life of a modern-day nomad, Celeste's primary residence is in Ludlow, Vermont where she has been teaching snowboarding at Okemo Mountain Resort for eleven years. She is a certified instructor through The American Association of Snowboard Instructors and certified coach by The United States of America Snowboard Association. Celeste has been the most requested female snowboard instructor for nine of her eleven years at Okemo and was voted Okemo’s Instructor of the Year in 2007. She teaches all ages and all ability levels and has an affinity for instructing women, children and Spanish-speaking guests. As a compliment to instructing snowboarding, she also teaches yoga.
Celeste has traveled extensively through the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, the United States and other locales, where she surfs and does volunteer teaching in English and Spanish during her off-season. She is a professional photographer, which has taken her to Costa Rica, Mexico and Maui. When not traveling in the summer months, she is a hiking guide and yoga instructor for Appalachian Trail Adventures, a hiking/fitness spa in Vermont.
She is the owner and primary guide of Vida Alegre which offers fully-customized, international travel tours for women of all ability levels.
While living the life of a modern-day nomad, Celeste's primary residence is in Ludlow, Vermont where she has been teaching snowboarding at Okemo Mountain Resort for eleven years. She is a certified instructor through The American Association of Snowboard Instructors and certified coach by The United States of America Snowboard Association. Celeste has been the most requested female snowboard instructor for nine of her eleven years at Okemo and was voted Okemo’s Instructor of the Year in 2007. She teaches all ages and all ability levels and has an affinity for instructing women, children and Spanish-speaking guests. As a compliment to instructing snowboarding, she also teaches yoga.
Celeste has traveled extensively through the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, the United States and other locales, where she surfs and does volunteer teaching in English and Spanish during her off-season. She is a professional photographer, which has taken her to Costa Rica, Mexico and Maui. When not traveling in the summer months, she is a hiking guide and yoga instructor for Appalachian Trail Adventures, a hiking/fitness spa in Vermont.
She is the owner and primary guide of Vida Alegre which offers fully-customized, international travel tours for women of all ability levels.
REVIEWS
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Snowboards can be classified into three general categories: park & pipe (freestyle), all-mountain (freeride), and powder boards. Park and pipe can be subdivided into more specific boards made with features that help in the pipe, or similarly, rail sliding specific boards that are created for those who love the rails.Read More »
When looking for a board, there are key features to be aware of including length, side cut, width, and flex.
Length:
Board length is measured in mm, women’s boards range from around 140 to 158, measured from tip to tail. Longer lengths give more directional stability. An easy guideline for the length of a board is to hold it up and see if the height of the board reaches between your chin and nose. Remember, powder boards will be longer due to the need for greater surface area in order to float over deep snow. If you prefer to ride in the park, a shorter board will be easier for spins and rails. If you like to go fast and carve, a longer board will give you more stability at speed.
Side cut:
Each board has a different side cut, which is the amount of curve in the contact edge of the board. It is measured in meters, as the radius of a circle. General women’s board side cut varies, but the easiest way to check it out is to stand the board up on its side and examine the arc of the side of the board, a greater arc will mean quicker, more responsive turning.
Flex:
There are two kinds of flex: longitudinal (the way it flexes along it length) and torsional (resistance to twist). Most boards are rated by the manufacturer on a scale as to their flexibility. However, a more hands-on approach is to hold the board with the tail on the ground and one hand on the tip, and place your other hand in the center and push. This will give you a good idea of the longitudinal flex of the board. Torsional flex can be tested in a similar way, hold the board and twist it. Softer boards are better for initiating turns, rails, and overall maneuverability at slow speeds in varied conditions. They also allow for playful riding, making tricks like butters, ollies, and noserolls easy. Stiffer boards are more stable at high speeds and perform better in the halfpipe.
Width:
Board width is the distance straight across the board. Because of side cut, they are thicker at tip and tail and thinner in the middle. Narrower boards are quicker when transitioning edge to edge. Wider boards have more surface area, are slower edge to edge, but perform better in powder. If your feet are larger, width can be a definite factor in your choice for a board. Look for a board that your feet fit on, without the toes or heels hanging over the edges.
In order to determine which category of boards to browse, consider your personal riding preferences. Type of riding, body weight, height, foot size, and, of course, graphics are all factors to be considered.
Where do you like to ride?
The mountains we ride are diverse places. There are parks, halfpipes, steeps, flats, trails, and trees. Think about where you like to spend most of your time. If you have trouble deciding, remember that there are the well rounded all mountain boards for those who choose to spend time equally over various parts of the mountain.
Geographics:
If you live or ride in a place that has powder all the time, you are going to want a board that will enable you to ride your best in those conditions. Similarly, if you are an East Coaster who rides hard pack and ice a good amount of the season, you want a board that will perform for you in those conditions. It’s not surprising that with the technology today, there are boards for just about every condition you can think of.
Our beautiful bodies:
Don’t worry; I’m going to show you how to avoid disclosing your weight to the good-looking snowboarder that may help you buy your board. Each board has a sticker on the bottom which gives you a recommended height and weight rating (in each size). Remember, this is a guideline, and it is made to make the board perform at an optimum level. If you are slightly out of the range, it’s no reason to forget about the specific board. You can also find these charts online on the board manufacturer’s websites. They are usually listed as “specs” (or specifications) or “tech”. Generally speaking, women’s boards are designed with the assumption that all women have relatively small feet. If you have larger feet (if you place your feet on the board and find that your toes are hanging off the edge), you may want to consider looking for a wider board. This will affect your performance. Some women choose to look at men’s boards, as they are built wider. -
Accessories are those little extras that make your riding experience easier, and the following are items that I find helpful. Whether protection, transport aids, or tools, these items can save valuable time and ease your experience on the mountain.Read More » -
When the snow melts around us, DVDs help to pacify our hunger for riding. We can live vicariously through the riders, visualize the tricks we want to try next season, and fantasize about the places around the world that we plan to snowboard someday. Since most video stores are lacking in the snowboard video department, renting usually isn’t an option, but for a minimal investment you can own and watch one of these films any time your heart desires! So, grab the Raisinettes, one of these DVDs, and ENJOY!Read More » -
To ensure comfort while riding, one of the most important things you can do is layer properly. The days of good old cotton turtlenecks are long gone. The technical clothing that has emerged is amazingly advanced and keeps your body warm and dry throughout the day. Depending on how much you ride, it’s necessary to have a quiver of under layers to mix and match. There are several different types of under layers, and what you need will vary greatly with weather conditions, fabric and design preferences, and your personal body thermostat. Features to consider are fabric construction, breathability, and fit.Read More »
The features of under layer tops are standard. Most are made of moisture wicking polyester or nylon blend fabric, enabling the garment to breathe. The most important feature of base layers (those that touch your skin directly) is moisture wicking capability, which keeps you dryer and warmer. While the moisture wicking fabrics are called by different names, their function is the same.
The fit of your base layer is especially important. They should be tight enough to touch your skin. Many people make the mistake of wearing it too baggy. If your top is not in contact with your skin, the moisture wicking capability is diminished. With all layers, including fleece and down layers, fit is also important. Try them on with other under layers for correct sizing.
Types of layers for women include intimates, tank tops, lightweight or silk weight layers, first layer, fleece layer, and down layers.
Intimates:
In the past, companies made sports-type bras for women, but within the past five years, companies that manufacture ski and snowboard specific clothing have realized the need for snowboard-specific women’s intimates. Specialized sports bras have emerged from a few snowboard companies, and it’s likely that more will come in the near future. With the number of female snowboarders growing, companies are recognizing their needs. It’s about time!
Tank Tops:
Many companies make tank tops specifically designed for snowboarders. They are made of materials that pull moisture away from your body, thus keeping you warm and dry.
Lightweight/Silk weight Layers:
Lightweight layers provide a light, silky layer against your skin, which not only feels great but serves a purpose. Although some are made of a polyester and spandex blend, those that are made of mostly silk have natural moisture wicking capabilities. Although ultra light, these materials are very effective at pulling moisture away from your body, thus keeping you drier.
First Layers:
Slightly heavier than the silk weight but serving the same purpose, first layers are generally made of 100 percent polyester. Not like your grandma’s polyester, these tops are soft, comfortable, and flexible, and can be found in crew neck and 1/4 zip to satisfy your design preference.
Fleece layers:
Fleece layers provide extra warmth. Many manufacturers have constructed micro fleece, which is a fleece that feels thinner but is actually more dense and warm. Look for choices like crew neck, zip and quarter zip neck.
Down Layers:
Down has always been my choice for warmth in extreme temperatures. There are various layers of down jackets available, from lightweight to heavy. I have found that the lightweight down jackets work well as a top layer, right before your jacket on the days that are extremely cold. Also, consider the type of outerwear you use. If you use a shell, a down layer might be a great investment for an added layer when you need it. -
Looking for snowboard pants can be slightly confusing. With so many different models, styles, and colors, it can be overwhelming. While the “cute factor” is always a consideration for us women, we must look past looking good to be sure we purchase a product that provides everything we require. Some features to consider before you purchase are construction, waterproofing, breathability, insulation, lining, and extra features.Read More »
Construction:
The construction of the pant is always important. Most snowboard pants are a sizable investment for one pair of pants! The textiles used to construct the pant are generally some type of nylon, and usually when you physically touch the pant you can tell if the material is fragile. You may have to sacrifice a little flexibility for a burly, durable fabric. While trying on the pant, check out the seams; squat in them and mimic movements that you would make while snowboarding. This is the only way to acquire an accurate idea of how they will feel when you are riding. They may look and feel great while standing, but always remember the positions you are in while on the hill. Inspect the construction, and don’t be sold solely by the added features or stylish appearance.
Waterproofing/Breathability:
Like gloves, waterproofing in pants is measured in Ms. The higher the M rating, the more waterproof. Also, look for taped seams. This will provide added protection from water. If you are a person who will ride in any conditions or a beginner who may be spending more time on the ground, this may be an area to focus on when purchasing a pant. No one likes to walk around in wet pants.
Breathability, measured in Gs, is slightly sacrificial in pants, especially if the pants have zipper vents that can be opened and closed to prevent overheating.
Insulation/Lining:
Pants can be classified into basically three types: shells, insulated, and those with removable liners. Shells are your basic pant. Constructed thin as a barrier between you and the snow, they are designed for you to layer as much or as little as you desire underneath them. Shells are always great for spring and warmer days. But if you choose a shell for all conditions, consider upsizing in order to allow room for extra layers on the very cold days. Insulated pants are made a little thicker with insulation built into the pan. These are great for those who desire a little extra warmth at all times. The third type is pants with a removable liner. These are constructed usually with a zip in/out liner, which can be removed depending on your needs. I have found that removable liner pants can be the most versatile of the three because you can use them in virtually any temperature. They are like having two pants in one.
Extra Features:
While you shouldn’t buy a pant only for the extras, there are some added features that are really helpful. Pockets, adjustable waistbands, interfacing systems, and powder cuffs are just some of the bonuses that can be found on snowboard pants. Pockets can be a girl’s best friend these days when you have to carry your phone, iPod, license, debit card, money, energy bar, and maybe even a little lip gloss. I find that cargo pockets carry the most and are usually located in places that don’t interfere with your riding. Adjustable waistbands allow you to fine tune the fit in the waist of the pant. Interfacing systems are small snaps or hooks on the side and back of the pants that allow you to connect them to a jacket that uses the same system. This feature is awesome to keep out snow and cold. Powder cuffs are elastic cuffs inside the bottom of the pant legs. These go around your boot, and keep your pant legs down and the snow out of your boot.
A Note about Sizing:
Most manufacturers have different sizing, so always try on the pants. Because most snowboard pants are made to fit baggy (especially in comparison to ski pants) you will find that you may have to spend some time trying on sizes different than your normal pant size. Forget about the number or letter size. Use it as a guideline and go for fit. Each of us has our idea of the perfect fit. For some it’s tighter, for some it’s baggy. Most importantly, buy the pants that FEEL good. While I will admit that looks are definitely important, we want to feel good while riding! -
We snowboard because we love it. Some love to be outside, some love the feeling of gliding down a mountain, some love the adrenaline rush of grinding a rail, or riding the pipe. For all of the reasons you love snowboarding, you want to enjoy it to its maximum potential. Choosing the right gear can make or break your perfect day of riding. You can avoid ending the day with freezing fingers that look like white raisins when you pull them out of your glove or mitten?Read More »
When looking for gloves or mittens for snowboarding there are several factors to consider:
What conditions do you ride in?
First, consider your riding habits and what weather conditions you are willing to brave. Are you a fair-weather snowboarder who goes when the skies are blue, and usually only half the day? Or, are you a die-hard, proverbial postman - through rain, ice, sleet, fog, snow? People who ride every day, all day or work in the industry require more from a glove.
What kind of rider are you?
Do you spend most of your time in the park and pipe or do you prefer to cruise all over the mountain?
All of these factors greatly affect your needs in a glove or mitten.
Where do you ride (geographically)?
Geographical location is also a consideration. For instance, east coast riders from Vermont, where there can be many days below zero, require different things in a glove than West Coast riders where many days are sunny and warmer.
Do you get cold easy?
You have to know your body. Are you one of those people that when the temperature dips down you feel a chill to the bones? Generally speaking, as women, we have less circulation in our extremities, therefore, our fingers and toes tend to get colder faster. So, when looking for a glove or mitten, consider your personal body thermometer.
Once you determine your personal needs in a glove, then you can start to determine what types of gloves would be best suited to your riding. There a few important things to look for when purchasing a glove.
Features of the gloves to consider:
Warmth:
The biggest problem and complaint people have with gloves is the lack of ability to actually keep your hands warm. First and foremost, you want a glove that has enough insulation to keep your hands warm on even exceptionally cold days. A removable liner is a very helpful feature. A glove with a removable liner is not only easier and swifter to dry, but it comes with that “two for the price of one” feature. Wear it with the liners on cold days, and without on warmer days. It is the more convenient choice, avoiding the need to purchase two pairs of gloves, and the choice of extra warmth if the temperature drops. The removable liner gives the option for a quick change-over, making the gloves cooler or warmer depending on your needs. Many of the newer gloves have a hand warmer pocket on the glove, making it convenient to utilize hand warmers on those very cold days.
(Article continued in Best of the Rest section)
