Most of us know that crushing feeling associated with losing something. The feeling is even worse if you had spent a large amount of money to acquire the item. When you think of ski sports equipment and the price, you tend to be more careful, especially in busy skiing resorts. You may leave your snowboard for a few seconds to eat, and afterward, you find it stolen.
A measure you can undertake to prevent people from randomly stealing your snowboard is to get a lock. It can be a cable lock or one with a key; it doesn’t matter, as long as it offers some form of security. The good thing about snowboard locks is that they are versatile, as they can secure other things.
If you are shopping for one, here are eight commendable models that will suit your security needs depending on your budget; further down is a brief guide to help you select the best snowboard lock.
1. Dakine
Starting off is the Dakine that is lightweight enough to carry around in your pockets when you are on the move. This model comes in a green color that is easily noticeable from afar, so it is not easy to lose it. The micro lock uses a three-digit combination to open or close the lock so you can set the pin you want.
Select a pin that is easy to remember because this model is not TSA compliant; you cannot use a master key to open this lock. The snowboard lock possesses a 30-inch cable to secure your boards, so there is adequate room to hold equipment of varied thickness. The cable is retractable; hence you can adjust it accordingly.
Pros
- Lightweight thus easily portable.
- Features a durable steel 30-inch cable.
- Easy to use three-digit combination
- Offers good value for money.
Cons
- Too light to work as a permanent lock.
- Can be severed easily with a wire cutter.
2. Allnice ET-152
The Allnice ET-152 is strong and durable to secure your items over the years. This model features a lock hook made of zinc alloy to facilitate high corrosion resistance. The securing spring consists of a 2mm thick wire coated with PVC to prevent it from scratching your board or snagging on your clothes when you carry it in the pocket.
Weighing only 100g, you can carry this lightweight cable lock wherever you go without being weighed down. It does not have a key, and therefore it relies on a combination code set by the user to open or close. This model has a length of 150cm to secure small and large-sized items like bicycles. You can find instructions on how to use it online, so it should be easy to use.
Pros
- Features adequate length of 150cm.
- Coated with PVC for corrosion resistance.
- Lightweight, easily portable.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Delivered without instructions.
- Not strong enough to provide complete protection from theft.
3. Master Lock
The third is the Master Lock, made from durable plastic, and it is available in various colors, so you may be lucky enough to get your favorite color delivered. You can use this model to secure backpacks or strollers; however, the manufacturer recommends avoiding using this lock on bicycles.
This cable lock is easy to use because all you need is a three-digit code to secure it. It has a 3ft cable made from 2.4mm thick braided steel for durability and strength. You can be sure that the cable does not rust because it possesses a vinyl coating.
The retractable cable features a push button that makes recoiling the cable for storage an easy task. A lifetime limited warranty accompanies the lock hence the manufacturer will address any issues with the product.
Pros
- Available in different colors.
- Easy to use recoil feature.
- Affordable.
- Easily portable.
Cons
- Not suitable for bikes.
- Weak retraction mechanism.
4. Bosvision
The Bosvision is a cute-looking model that you can carry around with you whether you are looking to secure your snowboard, bikes, or skis. This Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene combination lock offers a thicker cable than most of the market models, so you are guaranteed some security. The 3ft steel cable will not scratch your board as it is vinyl-coated for protection.
You do not have to manually retract the cable because it comes with a push-recoil system. Once you press the button, the cable retracts in a couple of seconds. This model is available in three colors; black, orange, and green/black. The 87g model is lightweight for portability purposes, and all you need to secure it is a four-digit code that you can remember with ease.
Pros
- Can secure bikes, buggies, snowboards, skis, etc.
- Select the color you want.
- Offers a thicker cable than most cable locks.
- Easy to use.
Cons
- Plastic body prone to damage.
- The recoil system may jam.
5. Lewis N. Clark
If you are looking for an affordable model, why not select the Lewis N. Clark? This tiny lock weighs 2.08 ounces; thus, it suitable for those who need a small portable lock. The cable lock consists of strong materials to increase the service life of the lock. The lock’s exterior features ABS and thermoplastic rubber, while the cable itself is smooth braided steel that is flexible.
This lock is not only convenient for securing snowboards, but you can use it to secure luggage, purses, doors, or work equipment without issues because the lock has a 30-inch cable. It has a three-digit combination code that the user can reset at any time. This cable lock built to last comes in three colors and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Pros
- Durable, lightweight, portable lock.
- Multipurpose.
- Available in different colors.
- Offers 100% satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Cable is a bit thin.
- User instructions could be better.
6. Lumintrail TSA
Another great product is the Lumintrail TSA, which can be locked or unlocked using a TSA master key. This 2.8-ounce model is suitable for securing language as well as small cabinets and other indoor uses. It features durable steel cables with one that is 4ft long to provide enough room to secure objects of different sizes.
When you purchase this model, you have three colors to select: silver, black, and red. You don’t have to worry about the 3mm diameter cable scratching surfaces because it has a protected surface. The lock relies on a three-digit combination to secure and unlock the device at will. You can find instructions on how to use the lock accompanying the product on delivery.
Pros
- Provides good value for money.
- Easy to use combination system.
- Available in different colors.
- Can be used for various purposes.
Cons
- Extension cable too wide to go through zippers.
- Numbers hard to read.
7. Precision Works
The Precision Works is a simple-to-use model suitable for multipurpose use. You can secure your motorcycle, snowboards, or large machines like lawnmowers with this lock. It is a durable model that is weather resistant because its steel cable is PVC coated to prevent rusting.
You don’t have to fumble around with keys, as the lock relies on a three-digit combination to secure the lock. The lock features a 6-inch cable which offers enough room to secure the large items mentioned above. This model’s code combinations reset quickly to facilitate continuous security. It has a durable vinyl shell, and it weighs 113.39g which makes it light enough to carry around.
Pros
- Possesses a robust 6-inch cable for securing large items.
- Easy to use combination system.
- Waterproof and rust-resistant.
- It is a multipurpose model.
Cons
- User instructions are vague.
- The lock may reset itself.
8. Ski and Snowboard-Fat
Those looking for a more secure option might want to consider the Ski and Snowboard-Fat. Unlike the other snowboard locks with cables and combination code, this one relies on keys for security. A thief has to spend some time unlocking it since they can’t use wire cutters. If you are going to a ski resort, this lock would be compatible with many of the storage racks available.
You don’t have to stick with one basic color; there are five colors on offer that would match the color of your snowboard. Each lock comes with two keys, so if you lose one key, you can replace it with the other.
Pros
- Safer to use as it cannot be cut open.
- Durable quality lock.
- Available in five colors.
- Compatible with most storage racks available in resorts.
Cons
- Pricey.
- Not compatible with all storage racks.
Buying Guide
Before you purchase a snowboard lock, you need to ask yourself how much security you are looking for. Are you looking for something to secure your snowboard as you make a quick stop, or are you looking to park it for the night? Once you understand the level of security you need, then you can figure out the other characteristics you need from a snowboard lock, such as;
Locking System
When dealing with snowboard locks, there are two major systems; cable or keys. The locking system you chose depends entirely on your preference. If you are not good at remembering codes, then maybe a key is more suitable.
However, it is vital to keep track of the key if you don’t want to lose access to your snowboard. You can loop a string through the key and wear it as a necklace for safekeeping as you enjoy your day in the snow.
Capacity
How many items can the cable support? Those looking to secure more snowboards should find models with a long cable; this way, they can fit as many snowboards as they can comfortably. If you just have one board to secure, then a snowboard lock with a key is ideal.
Portability
A day in the snow needs a bundle of clothes and the right equipment. It would be unfortunate to add to the load by moving around with a heavy snowboard lock as there are many lightweight cable snowboard locks available for purchase. If you are looking for a portable model, remember to check its weight but do not compromise on the steel cable’s quality.
Durability
Most snowboard locks are affordable, but some are not too strong structure-wise. Those made from cheap plastic will crack easily, or the recoil mechanism will fail after a singular use. The locks need to be waterproof and resistant to rust, considering that they are outdoors.
Ease of use
A snowboard lock that is easy to use features a seamless recoil feature, easy to reset combination code, and a sizeable cord that is not too thick. If the cord is too thick, you will have a problem looping it through zippers or other small openings.
On resetting the code, some locks feature cheap mechanisms that often shift the code, causing the lock to jam. If you compromise on the snowboard lock’s quality, then you have no one to blame when it jams and holds your snowboard prisoner.
We hope this information helps you. The snowboard locks we have discussed and the considerations you could make are not all there is to making the best choice; your preference takes the day. We hope you find what you are looking for. Happy shopping!
Conclusion
Snowboard locks do not seem like exciting products, but they have their own appeal. They come in different colors, so you can color-coordinate all your gear while providing security. If you are looking for a lock for long-term use that offers more protection, you need to spend more because the ones featured here act more as theft deterrents.
A well-made thief deterrent that we appreciate is the Dakine Micro Lock. It is lightweight; therefore, it is not a burden to carry, and it has a sizeable 30-inch cable. You can trust in the lock’s quality as it comprises a strong shell that can absorb impact. It is an affordable retractable model that you can use for more than securing your snowboard.
Give it a try today and secure your snowboard letting go of the constant paranoia of theft. Believe us; you will enjoy your day even more!
