The Snowboard House

Where to go. 49 resorts in 13 regions, 39 with a snowpark, from the Alps to the Apennines: for each one, altitude, kilometers of slopes, snowpark, how to get there and a rating made for snowboarders. Start from the resort guide.

Getting started. Never stood on a board? The beginner's guide covers what you need on day one, how to tell regular from goofy, and when a lesson at one of the listed snowboard schools pays off.

Gear. Board, bindings, boots, clothing and protection: the gear guide says what to look at for your level and style, and the shops where you can try it.

Events and communities. 79 dates in the calendar, from camps and demo days to trips and contests, with dates and sign-ups taken from the organizers' sites, and the communities to ride with.