6 Best Cameras For Snowboarding: Freeze Your Epic Moments
Want a premium action camera from a trusted brand, but don’t want to pay premium dollar? With the GoPro Hero9, you’re getting a flagship adventure-capturing machine in a compact package you can count on.
The Hero9 doesn’t feature the newest GoPro processing system, it’s true. But that’s not a deal breaker unless an advanced interface, with faster processing speeds and improved sensors, is a necessity. Even as a slightly older model, it still offers super high-res shooting capabilities and plenty of modes and features. For me, image stabilization, horizon leveling, and a 23.6mp sensor were enough to nail that snowboarding footage.
My consensus: for those dreaming of a GoPro but not sold on the latest (and priciest) version, the Hero9 is a very sensible choice that will impress all the same. It’s my Best Overall pick if you want reliably amazing photos and videos of your riding days.
Tired of blurry action shots and shaky videos that don’t capture your shining snowboarding moments?
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to record a trick you’ve finally nailed or are snapping slow-motion photos as you enjoy epic powder days with friends. Having a reliable, action-friendly camera capable of capturing those magical snowboarding memories makes all the difference.
Eager to hit the slopes and start documenting your passion? Read on for our one-stop roundup of the Best Cameras for Snowboarding out there.
My Review Process
I’ve been let down by a fair share of camera equipment on the mountain. Cold-shocked batteries that die after mere hours? Been there. Slow shutter speeds that miss a moment, or shakey videos too embarrassing to share? Too many to admit.
Just as snowboarding equipment matters on the slopes, camera gear is no different. So if you want to document your riding journey, it’s important to choose something you can depend on.
What to look for when choosing the best camera for snowboarding? A lightweight yet durable model that withstands harsh mountain environments is a must. One that shoots quality videos, and prioritizes image stabilization and continuous shooting, is also a must. I highlight other important features to consider in the Buying Guide below!
Best Overall Camera for Snowboarding
Want a premium action camera from a trusted brand, but don’t want to pay premium dollar? With the GoPro Hero9, you’re getting a flagship adventure-capturing machine in a compact package you can count on.
The Hero9 doesn’t feature the newest GoPro processing system, it’s true. But that’s not a deal breaker unless an advanced interface, with faster processing speeds and improved sensors, is a necessity. Even as a slightly older model, it still offers super high-res shooting capabilities and plenty of modes and features. For me, image stabilization, horizon leveling, and a 23.6mp sensor were enough to nail that snowboarding footage.
My consensus: for those dreaming of a GoPro but not sold on the latest (and priciest) version, the Hero9 is a very sensible choice that will impress all the same. It’s my Best Overall pick if you want reliably amazing photos and videos of your riding days.
Best 360 Camera for Snowboarding
Swooning over those immersive, omnidirectional views of snowboarders floating on powder? There’s a good chance one of the Insta360 action cameras is responsible. And if 360-degree footage is what you’re after, prepare to be won over by the brand’s latest version, the Insta360 X3.
The drone-like personal footage created by the “invisible selfie stick” alone is enough to blow you away. Tack on vivid, super-crisp, high resolution 360-degree videos and photos, and various other cool “capture” modes to experiment with? You have an action-camera wizard that adds that extra magic to your snowboarding memories.
For the average user, there may be a learning curve as you get used to what the camera is capable of. And how to edit it with finesse. Trust me that it’s time well-invested, however.
This smart, rugged little adventure camera is as good as it gets for epic shots and unique snowboarding angles.
Best Action Camera for Snowboarding
At their core, action cameras need to keep up with athletes. Does the DJI Osmo Action 3 succeed? Let’s just say it produces footage that rivals, if not surpasses, some of the most popular brands out there. All while outlasting them on the slopes!
The camera comes in a ready-to-go package, designed to hold up in the coldest and wettest of environments. The battery life is one of the most reliable of all action cameras out there, with nearly two hours of continuous shooting! That’s huge for full days of riding and recording.
But what about the video and photo quality? Both pictures and videos shine, with several options for different fields of view. Horizon balancing and stablization is also top notch. It has moments of lag, at times, particularly with focus, but it tends to reset just in time to get that perfect shot.
Although not a household name yet, the DJI Osmo Action 3 surprised me the most with its versatility and all-around performance. An action camera winner in my book, with a winning price to match.
Best Video Camera for Snowboarding
Want to say goodbye to flat videos and elevate your creativity with cinematic snowboarding captures? You can stop your search with the GoPro Hero11.
With one of the highest resolutions and frames-per-second currently possible for action models, the Hero11 is a finely-tuned powerhouse. I found the video stabilization super impressive; it made even the bumpiest of runs look smooth. A larger sensor and upgraded GP2 image processor allow you to screen grab surprisingly high-res frames, too. A huge bonus for those that want still photos of their rides.
My biggest concern was the Hero11’s battery life. For the steep price, I really hoped the new version would last a lot longer. Spare batteries easily solve that issue, so it might not be that much of a deal-breaker.
For anyone passionate about snowboarding videography, the GoPro Hero11 is the sidekick you want on your snow adventures.
Best Budget Camera for Snowboarding
Do you appreciate a good deal? And care more about a simple but high-quality camera package than a brand’s “it factor”? The underdog on our list, the AKASO Brave 7, may be the action camera for you!
With loads of extra straps, mounts, and even a dedicated waterproof housing, the all-in-one kit is a pretty sweet selling point. And it still checks most of the must-have boxes, like image stabilization, high video quality and a sturdy, weather-proof shell.
For all its perks, though, the photos and videos definitely aren’t at the same level as the other names on our list. But if you’re not planning on becoming a professional photographer and simply want to have fun recording your mountain memories, the AKASO Brave 7 won’t disappoint. It’s a fantastic entry-level action camera for riders on a budget.
Best Point & Shoot Snowboarding Camera
Want more control with your snowboarding photography and something that withstands the harshest environments? The TG-6 is it. Even as a point-and-shoot digital camera, the OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 stands out on this adventure-centric roundup.
I love being able to shoot in RAW, and that GPS data is embedded in each photo. True to its name, it’s also tough as nails in its build; waterproof, freeze-proof, shatter-proof.
The bad part? It’s a bit steep in price for a traditional digital camera. Especially since its video capabilities are just slightly above average. But unlike most action-models, it’s one of the few I’d trust to perform in below freezing temps.
So if extreme snow adventures, mountaineer trips, and backcountry tracks are your language, the OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 holds its own.
Buying Guide
Gone are the days of lugging a ten-pound camera setup and waiting a full day to get “the right shot.” With so many technology-forward, sport-focused cameras, you can now capture that decisive moment faster and easier.
Look for these key features in your snowboard camera search.
Durability
Cameras for sports like snowboarding need to hold up to the elements and rugged terrain. They’ll be front and center as you’re capturing those high-octane moments, after all! A weatherproof camera with lenses that can handle lots of snow contact, then, is key. A durable, shock-proof housing and shatter-proof screen and sensor are equally important.
Water Resistance
Snowboarding equals snow equals water, and water in your camera is not good. Water resistance and all-around weatherproofing on a camera is essential. Luckily, most outdoor and action camera brands on the market are water-resistant, waterproof, or at the least, offer waterproof housing.
Video
These days, nearly all quality action-geared cameras offer video recording capabilities, so don’t skimp on one that doesn’t have the option. If possible, a camera with 4K or 5K resolution is ideal for as clean and crisp of a video as possible, especially if viewed on a larger screen.
Modes
From slow motion and time lapse to the invisible selfie stick, look for a camera that offers some cool advanced features and shooting modes. They’ll elevate your videos and photography with a simple setting. And expand your creativity on the mountain.
AF Tracking
With autofocus (AF) tracking, a camera’s internal image processor tracks and predicts the movements of an object in the camera frame to select the proper focal point. It’s an essential feature of a snowboarding camera, because it allows the rider to stay in focus while moving.
Image Stabilization
With snowboarding photography, if a camera doesn’t offer image stabilization, don’t buy it. It detects any vibrations, and corrects potential motion blur before the camera takes an image. Chances are, you’ll often be cruising over uneven terrain while your camera is rolling, right? Image stabilization compensates for any tilts and blurs from those surprise movements, saving you from blurry shots.
Fast Frame Rate / Continuous Shooting
Things move fast on a snowboard, so look for a camera with a fast shutter speed or frame rate for getting smooth shots and videos. A “burst” or continuous shooting mode is also ideal for those still shots!
Whether you’re photographing a carving rider with a cape of powder trailing them or your buddy finally nailing a McTwist in the halfpipe, don’t risk that perfect shot being blurry.
Mount
The ability to mount a camera on your helmet, on your chest, or on an expanding selfie stick really makes shooting easier on the slopes. Most action cameras are easily mounted with extra hardware, which can be purchased separately if they aren’t automatically included in the package.
Battery
Not all battery life is built the same. When looking for snowboarding cameras, you want to ensure that the battery can uphold in very cold temperatures. Ideally, you want it to last for at least a solid hour of continuous, high-resolution shooting, too. Longer battery life often means higher cost, but trust me, it’s worth it. So is buying a spare set (or two) of batteries.
Weight and Size
A quality DSLR really offers exceptional photos and videos, but who wants to lug that weight around on the slopes all day? For most riders, the ideal camera for snowboarding should be small enough to stuff in a pocket. And, lightweight enough to forget you even have it in there. I’d say keep it under 10oz, or half a pound. Nearly all action cameras on our list top out at 6 ounces.
Summary
Looking for an action-ready camera to document your most memorable snowboarding memories? Our Best Overall pick, the GoPro Hero9, strikes the balance between quality, price, and a rugged little build that will hold up on your wildest adventures.
A solid runner up, the DJI Osmo Action 3 also delivers super-high quality videos and photos, but offers one of the most impressive batteries out there.
For riders who want the wow-factor of cinematic content, though, the Insta360 X3 knocks it out of the park with its 360-degree footage.
Common questions
When browsing camera options for snowboarding, think of why you want one in the first place. Are you simply looking for a weather-proof design that will capture some cool, fast-action videos off your helmet mount? Then you’re probably fine with a lower-end action camera under $200. If epic, high-quality 360-degree footage and loads of extra features rile you up, though, invest in a premium model with the latest processing systems.
Besides phones for simple, everyday recording, most snowboarders lean towards action cameras to record themselves and their friends shredding the mountain. They’re generally lightweight, waterproof, and capable of capturing quality images and videos at high speeds. They also tend to be super-rugged, compact and mountable (to a helmet, handlebars, selfie stick, etc) allowing you to ride and record simultaneously.
Oh yes! GoPro models are some of the most reputable and reliable action cameras on the market, and they make for excellent snowboarding cameras. For being so small, lightweight and resistant to snow, the images and videos that a GoPRo can create are truly impressive.
There are two ways to record someone snowboarding: when you are riding with them, following their movements, or, when you are in a stationary position, waiting for them to ride to you, and past you. To ensure your moving rider stays in the frame, it’s best to hold the camera in your hand or attach it to a selfie stick if you’re looking for a certain angle.
To maintain the longevity of your snowboarding camera, heed these care tips:
- Use a lens cloth to keep the lens clean
- Protect the lens with a lens cover
- Get extra protective waterproof housing
- Store camera and accessories in a safe place when not in use
- Check on (and care for) your batteries
Sylvia fell in love with snowboarding in her teens. She has since spent every season on the slopes and now works as a snowboard instructor.
*The information on this site is based on research and first-hand experience but should not be treated as medical advice. Before beginning any new activity, we recommend consulting with a physician, nutritionist or other relevant professional healthcare provider.
