SWITCH SKATE & SNOW BLOG

Snowboarding isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle, a culture, and for many of us in Ontario, a winter escape. But when was snowboarding invented? That’s a question we hear a lot, especially from newcomers walking through the doors of our shop, Switch Skate and Snow, right here in Ajax. We thought it was time to finally break down the history of snowboarding in a way that’s actually interesting, without making it sound like a boring high school textbook.

If you're anything like us, winter isn't something to hibernate through—it’s something to shred through. Snowboarding in Ontario might surprise people outside of Canada, but for those of us living here, it’s one of the best ways to embrace the chill. From scenic hills to beginner-friendly slopes, Ontario offers a mix of accessible resorts, especially around the Greater Toronto Area. Based in Ajax ourselves, at Switch Skate and Snow, we’ve had the chance to ride across the province and help thousands of customers gear up for the season. So, where should you head this winter?

Want to find out what to wear Skiing and snowboarding this Winter? When we first hit the slopes, one of the biggest mistakes we made wasn’t about technique; it was wearing the wrong clothes. Sound familiar? Whether you're heading to Blue Mountain, Mount St. Louis, or staying local in Durham Region, figuring out what to wear skiing and snowboarding can make or break your day. We're not talking about looking good (though hey, that helps); we're talking about staying warm, dry, and comfortable all day long.

Want to learn how to clean skateboard bearings the right way? Skateboard bearings might be small, but they’re the heartbeat of your board. If they’re dirty, rusty, or clogged, your ride becomes sluggish, and let’s be real, nobody wants that! We’ve cleaned our fair share of bearings here at Switch Skate and Snow, and we’re here to share the easiest, fastest, and most effective way to get your bearings rolling like new again.

So you’ve finally decided to give snowboarding a shot, awesome choice. We still remember our first time standing at the top of a snowy slope, heart racing, trying to figure out how not to fall flat on our face. If you’re searching for how to learn snowboarding, you’re in the right place. Whether you're in the heart of Ontario or searching “how to learn snowboarding near me,” we've got you covered with some of the best beginner advice on the internet, no fluff, just real, experience-based tips.

Learning how to skateboard can feel a bit like learning a new language, awkward at first, but wildly fun once things click. We get it. We’ve helped beginners in Ajax and all across the Durham Region take their first steps, well, rolls, into skateboarding. If you’re wondering how to learn skateboarding without getting overwhelmed or injured, you’re in the right place. At Switch Skate and Snow, we've supported thousands of riders from picking their first board to confidently rolling through parks. So grab your board, and let’s break it down, step by step.

Looking for the best snowboarding gloves to survive those freezing days on the hill? At Switch Skate and Snow, based in Ajax, Ontario, we’ve handpicked the top-performing snowboard gloves and mittens for 2026. From ultra-warm mitts like the Hestra Army Leather Heli to budget-friendly Burton GORE-TEX gloves, our guide covers what matters most—warmth, waterproofing, durability, and comfort. Whether you're shredding in Ontario or hitting powder out west, these glove picks are built to keep your hands dry and warm all season long.

Skateboarding isn't just about mastering tricks, it's a vibe and culture, a lifestyle, and for many of us, a daily uniform. The clothes we wear when we ride say just as much about us as the boards beneath our feet.

Every snowboard season, we hear the same question in our shop and online: “Which one should I go for — Union Force or Contact Pro?” As we head into the 2026 season, this debate is heating up more than ever. At Switch Skate and Snow here in Ajax, Ontario, we’ve seen firsthand how these two iconic bindings perform in the hands (and feet) of riders across Canada.

Explore the top spots for indoor skateboarding in Toronto. Find expert gear & local tips from Switch Skate and Snow.

While bearings like REDS/Super REDS are more common for skateboards and longboards, if you’re using sliding-tray setups, snowboards with wheel-based dolly systems, or custom hybrid boards for off-season cross-training, bearings still play a role.Choosing Super REDS gives you smoother, quieter rolling, which can make transitions and transport more pleasant. But if you just want decent wheels for occasional use or travel, REDS remain solid and cost-effective.

According to our findings on Skateboarding in Winter. Reduced traction: Snow, ice, moisture, and cold concrete surfaces make wheels slippery — increased risk of slipping or losing balance. Board and wheel strain: Cold can make skateboard wood more brittle and wheels harder — less shock absorption and rougher ride. Keep on reading out find out more