Snowboarding has evolved far beyond a winter hobby it’s now a full-fledged sport that fuses extreme athleticism with individual style, creative flair, and a powerful sense of community. Whether you’re bombing down powdery slopes, mastering freestyle tricks in the terrain park, or pushing your limits in backcountry expeditions, snowboarding demands a mix of skill, passion, and dedication. But there’s another important piece of the puzzle that often goes unspoken: support. And that’s where Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs come into play.
Securing a snowboarding sponsorship is a game-changer for athletes aiming to make their mark. From access to top-tier gear and financial backing to media exposure and travel opportunities, a sponsorship can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Yet, like any serious opportunity, landing one isn’t as simple as sending an email or tagging a brand on Instagram. It takes strategy, consistency, and an understanding of what sponsors are really looking for.
What’s interesting about snowboarding sponsorships is that they’re not only reserved for Olympic-level professionals. In fact, many brands today are expanding their reach to include amateur and up-and-coming riders with unique voices and strong community presence. Whether you’re competing in regional comps or growing a loyal following on TikTok or YouTube, there’s room for new faces—if you know how to position yourself the right way.
That’s why we created this in-depth guide. If you’re serious about stepping up your snowboarding career and want to understand how to approach Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs, this blog is for you. We’re covering everything you need to know, from eligibility criteria and the most respected sponsors in the industry to essential requirements and how to submit a standout application.
You might be wondering why sponsors invest so much in snowboarders in the first place. The answer lies in the lifestyle and culture that snowboarding represents. Snowboarders influence trends, represent aspirational ideals, and help brands connect with an adventurous and loyal fan base. In return, companies provide the backing that helps these athletes thrive, travel, and push their sport further.
Whether you dream of riding for brands like Burton, Red Bull, or The North Face or you’re just getting started and want to land your first flow deal it all starts with understanding the fundamentals. And that begins with asking the right questions: Am I eligible? What do brands look for? How can I stand out from the crowd?
So, before diving into the specifics of how to apply, let’s start with the core of it all: eligibility. Because knowing if you’re ready and what areas to focus on can make the difference between being overlooked and being scouted. Stick with us as we break down exactly what brands are seeking in their next sponsored snowboarder.
Eligibility for Snowboarding Sponsorships
When it comes to eligibility for Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs, the first thing to understand is that there’s no single blueprint. Brands differ in their expectations, and sponsorships come in many forms—from grassroots support and gear deals to full-on pro contracts with stipends, travel budgets, and performance bonuses. But while the details may vary, there are core elements that sponsors consistently look for in athletes.
One of the most obvious factors is your skill level and riding ability. Sponsors want to back snowboarders who are technically sound, innovative, and able to perform consistently under pressure. This doesn’t always mean you need to be winning X Games medals. But you should have a strong grasp of fundamentals and a unique riding style that sets you apart whether you’re competing, filming edits, or sharing your sessions online. The better you ride, the more you stand out, and the more value you bring to a potential sponsor.
Another critical area is competitive experience. While not every sponsor requires you to be a contest regular, having a track record of participating in events—whether local rail jams, regional slopestyle competitions, or international qualifiers shows that you’re serious and that your skills hold up in structured environments. Even if you haven’t taken home many podiums, showing progress, resilience, and commitment goes a long way. It demonstrates to brands that you’re investing in yourself and in your career.
Beyond riding, personal branding and personality play a huge role in eligibility. Brands don’t just want athletes they want ambassadors. Are you relatable? Do you communicate well? Can you represent a brand’s image authentically? Your online presence, content quality, attitude, and how you engage with followers all contribute to how marketable you are. A snowboarder with a magnetic personality and 20k loyal Instagram followers may bring more value than a reclusive contest winner. It’s all about connection and visibility.
Age and maturity are also considered, especially when it comes to long-term sponsorship opportunities. Young riders—especially teens with raw talent and a good attitude are often scouted for development programs. That said, older snowboarders with a clear vision, niche influence, or deep industry relationships are also in demand. The key is not your age, but how you carry yourself and how ready you are to represent a brand professionally.
Don’t overlook geographic location and availability. Sponsors often look for riders in key regions where their products are sold or promoted. If you’re based near major ski resorts, snowboarding hubs, or in a country with a vibrant snow sports scene, you may have a natural advantage. Additionally, being willing and able to travel for events, film shoots, or promotional work adds to your appeal as a sponsored athlete.
Lastly, your attitude and work ethic can make or break your eligibility. Are you coachable? Reliable? Easy to work with? Sponsorship is more than free gear it’s a partnership. Brands want to invest in snowboarders who respect the opportunity and are willing to put in the effort to create content, show up on time, and represent the company well both on and off the mountain. Positive energy, humility, and consistency go a long way.
In short, eligibility for Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs isn’t just about how high you can jump or how many spins you can land. It’s about the whole package skill, story, style, visibility, and mindset. If you’ve got a passion for snowboarding and a willingness to grow both on the board and as a brand partner, you’re already on the right track.
Top 10 Companies That Sponsor Snowboarders
When you’re aiming to break into the world of Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs, knowing who the top sponsors are and what they’re looking for can give you a huge edge. These brands don’t just support athletes; they help shape snowboarding culture and push the sport forward. From iconic snowboard manufacturers to energy drink giants, these companies invest heavily in talent, visibility, and innovation. Let’s dive into ten of the most influential snowboard sponsors, what they offer, and what kind of riders catch their eye.
1. Burton Snowboards
Arguably the most recognized name in snowboarding, Burton has been at the forefront of the sport since the beginning. Founded by Jake Burton Carpenter, the company has long been a champion of snowboard innovation and athlete development. Burton sponsors a wide range of riders, from Olympic legends like Shaun White (formerly) to grassroots talents just entering the scene. They look for athletes with progressive style, competitive achievements, and strong storytelling ability. If you’re looking for a company deeply embedded in snowboard culture, this is the gold standard.
2. Red Bull
While Red Bull isn’t a snowboarding gear company, it is one of the most powerful sponsorship entities in action sports. Red Bull athletes receive world-class support, including media production, access to high-profile events, and custom training opportunities. They invest in elite snowboarders like Mark McMorris and Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, but they also seek out fresh talent with potential for global impact. Red Bull looks for riders who are pushing boundaries, have a compelling personal brand, and can create standout content beyond competitions.
3. The North Face
Known for their high-performance outdoor gear, The North Face is a major supporter of both freestyle and big mountain snowboarding. They sponsor freeride legends like Xavier De Le Rue and emerging talent with a focus on exploration and adventure. Their ideal athlete embodies the spirit of the outdoors bold, resilient, and inspiring. If your snowboarding involves backcountry missions, splitboarding, or storytelling through travel and film, The North Face could be a perfect fit.
4. Oakley
A leading brand in snow goggles and technical apparel, Oakley has deep roots in action sports, including snowboarding. They sponsor a mix of freestyle riders, racers, and backcountry athletes who have distinct styles and bold personalities. Oakley puts a lot of energy into visual media and innovation, so they look for riders who are camera-ready and eager to collaborate on photo shoots, video segments, and campaigns. A strong digital presence is key when approaching them.
5. DC Shoes
Originally known for skateboarding, DC Shoes made a big splash in snowboarding with their boots, outerwear, and street-inspired branding. DC sponsors edgy, style-driven riders who bring a streetwear attitude to the slopes. If your vibe is gritty, creative, and a little rebellious with video parts to back it up this brand might just be your tribe. Think urban rails, park edits, and a raw, authentic riding style.
6. Vans
Vans is another brand that crosses from skate to snow, and they’re beloved for their community-first ethos and support of creative, soulful riders. Vans doesn’t just look at podiums—they want riders who bring passion, originality, and substance to their craft. The brand invests heavily in storytelling, culture, and events like the Vans Hi-Standard Series, giving unsigned riders chances to shine. If you’re all about style, authenticity, and culture, Vans is definitely one to watch.
7. Monster Energy
Just like Red Bull, Monster Energy is a major force in extreme sports sponsorship. Known for supporting athletes with big personalities and even bigger tricks, Monster focuses on exposure, performance, and marketability. Their roster includes some of the world’s most famous snowboarders, but they’re also on the lookout for up-and-comers with an “it” factor. If you’re fearless on snow and magnetic on camera, Monster might be your calling.
8. Ride Snowboards
Ride is a rider-driven brand that’s been around since the early ’90s. Known for its edgy graphics and no-BS attitude, Ride looks for snowboarders who are serious about pushing the sport and having fun while doing it. They often work with creative filmers and stylish riders who bring personality to their video parts. Ride is ideal for snowboarders who are passionate, independent, and committed to progressing the sport through both media and competition.
9. Lib Tech
An innovative brand under the Mervin Manufacturing umbrella, Lib Tech is famous for their eco-conscious construction and progressive board designs. They’re deeply involved in both freestyle and freeride scenes, sponsoring boundary-pushing riders who care about both performance and sustainability. If you’ve got a unique voice, value eco-friendly practices, and ride with technical creativity, Lib Tech will feel like home.
10. Volcom
Volcom is all about the intersection of art, music, and action sports. They’ve been supporting snowboarders for decades and have one of the most creatively charged rosters in the industry. Volcom doesn’t just sponsor athletes—they collaborate with them on everything from product design to film projects. They love working with snowboarders who are creative, visually expressive, and immersed in the culture of boarding.
Sponsorship Requirements
If you’re serious about joining Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs, you need to do more than just ride well. Sponsors today aren’t just handing out free boards to anyone who can throw a 540 or nail a rail section—they’re investing in athletes who offer the full package. That means talent, professionalism, personality, and the ability to represent a brand authentically. So what exactly are companies looking for before they commit to a sponsorship? Let’s break down the key requirements that matter most.
1. Riding Skills and Performance
This should come as no surprise your ability to ride is the foundation of any potential sponsorship. Whether you’re hitting massive jumps in the backcountry or lacing stylish lines through a terrain park, your skills on the board need to be sharp, consistent, and evolving. Brands want to associate themselves with snowboarders who make the sport look exciting, effortless, and fresh. It’s not always about landing the most technical tricks, it’s about how you ride, the creativity in your lines, and your ability to make people stop and watch.
To show your skills, sponsors often look for video edits, contest results, or social media clips that demonstrate your level. If you’re not yet on the competition circuit, focus on building a solid digital portfolio that shows off your best riding. Even raw footage can work if it clearly displays your talent and style.
2. Personal Branding and Image
Riding is important, but your personal brand can be just as critical. In the era of digital content and influencer marketing, brands want snowboarders who can help tell their story—and that means you need to have a story of your own. What makes you different from the next rider? Do you have a message, a purpose, or a lifestyle that fans connect with? Sponsors want someone who can extend their brand identity both on and off the slopes.
Building a personal brand doesn’t mean faking it or trying to be someone you’re not. It means owning who you are, knowing your voice, and making it visible. Whether it’s through your YouTube edits, your Instagram presence, or even a personal blog or podcast, share your journey and let your unique personality come through.
3. Competition Results and Industry Recognition
While not a requirement for all sponsorships, having a track record in competitions can definitely boost your chances. Whether you’re dominating local rail jams, placing in national slopestyle comps, or qualifying for FIS World Cups, results give brands a benchmark to measure your progress and potential.
Beyond podiums, even being visible at industry events or earning shout-outs from well-known riders or coaches can help. If you’re actively involved in the snowboarding scene, networking and making a name for yourself, sponsors are more likely to notice.
4. Social Media Presence
In today’s world, your social media channels are often the first thing a brand will check. Why? Because they offer a real-time look at your riding, personality, and reach. Are you sharing regular updates? Do you interact with your followers? Are you creating content that people engage with?
You don’t need millions of followers to land a sponsorship, but having an active and authentic online presence is a big plus. Companies love to see snowboarders who are comfortable on camera, willing to promote gear or events, and who create content that aligns with their image. Bonus points if you’re into video editing, photography, or have a distinct aesthetic that sets your feed apart.
5. Media Portfolio and Resume
A strong media kit or athlete resume is essential when applying to Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs. This doesn’t have to be a glossy magazine-style document (though that helps), but it should include:
- A short bio (who you are, where you’re from, your snowboarding background)
- Your goals and why you want a sponsorship
- Highlighted achievements (competition results, video parts, features)
- Social media links and analytics (follower count, engagement rate, etc.)
- Photos and videos of your best riding
- Contact information
Your goal is to make it easy for a brand manager to see who you are, what you bring to the table, and why sponsoring you makes sense.
6. Professionalism and Communication Skills
This part is often overlooked, but it’s incredibly important: be professional. Brands are looking for athletes they can rely on, who respond to emails, meet deadlines, and represent their company in a positive way. That doesn’t mean you have to be stiff or overly corporate—it means showing respect, following through on commitments, and understanding that a sponsorship is a business relationship as much as it is a personal achievement.
If a brand reaches out, responds to your inquiry, or sends you free product, how you handle that communication matters. Be polite, timely, and appreciative. Over time, professionalism can lead to bigger opportunities.
7. Community Involvement and Influence
Finally, many sponsors are interested in riders who are connected to the snowboarding community and making an impact beyond just themselves. Are you mentoring younger riders? Are you involved in local events or charity efforts? Do you support diversity, sustainability, or inclusion in snow sports?
Brands are increasingly conscious of their social footprint, and working with snowboarders who give back or stand for something can be a huge bonus. Even small-scale involvement in your hometown snow scene can show that you’re not just in it for personal gain you’re part of something bigger.
Application Process
Now that you understand the eligibility criteria and what sponsors are looking for, it’s time to talk about the actual application process for Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs. This is where your preparation, mindset, and presentation come into play. Getting sponsored isn’t something that happens overnight, but with the right approach, strategy, and persistence, it’s absolutely within reach. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps and how to tackle each one like a pro.
1. Research and Target the Right Sponsors
Before sending a single message, start with research. Not all sponsors are created equal, and not every company will be a good fit for your style, goals, and values. Spend time identifying brands whose identity aligns with yours. Are you a backcountry explorer? Look into brands like The North Face or Lib Tech. Are you more into urban rails and gritty park edits? Ride Snowboards or DC Shoes might be a better match.
Dig into each brand’s team, recent marketing campaigns, events they support, and what kind of riders they typically sponsor. Follow their athletes on social media and watch how they represent the brand. This homework helps you tailor your approach and shows the company that you genuinely understand what they’re about.
2. Build a Strong Sponsorship Proposal or Athlete Resume
This step is crucial. Think of your sponsorship proposal like a job application, it should be professional, organized, and customized to the brand. It doesn’t need to be overly flashy, but it should clearly present who you are, what you’ve done, and what you offer. Include:
- A short bio: name, age, hometown, years riding, discipline (freestyle, freeride, etc.)
- A mission statement: what you’re passionate about and why snowboarding matters to you.
- A rider resume: competition results, film projects, magazine features, or event appearances.
- Your social media and content metrics: follower count, engagement rate, YouTube views, or TikTok reach.
- Your sponsorship goals: what kind of support you’re looking for (gear, travel help, full sponsorship).
A few high-quality action photos or video links that show your best riding.
Make sure everything is easy to read, well-organized, and presented with pride. This document is a snapshot of who you are as an athlete and brand ambassador.
3. Create a Personal Video or Highlight Reel
While a great resume is important, nothing speaks louder than visuals. A highlight reel usually 2 to 3 minutes long is a powerful way to grab a sponsor’s attention. It doesn’t need Hollywood-level editing, but it should feature your cleanest tricks, unique style, and energy. Think of it as your visual resume.
Start strong, keep it tight, and aim for quality over quantity. A short, punchy edit that makes an impact is far better than five minutes of shaky GoPro footage. Add music, titles, and a clear way to contact you at the end. If you’ve already released riding edits online, include links in your application as bonus content.
4. Reach Out Professionally
Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to make contact. Go to the brand’s website and look for a “Sponsorship” or “Team” contact. Some companies have online forms, while others provide a marketing or athlete manager’s email. Avoid sending generic messages to public social media accounts—those often get lost.
In your email, keep it short and respectful. Introduce yourself, mention why you’re reaching out to their company specifically, and attach your sponsorship proposal and media links. Here’s a simple structure:
- Subject Line: “Sponsorship Inquiry from [Your Name]”
- Intro: Who you are and what you’re applying for.
- Why Them: A sentence or two showing you’ve done your homework.
- Attachments: Resume, video links, photos, and contact info.
- Close: Thank them for their time and offer to follow up.
Example:
Hi [Brand Manager’s Name],
My name is Jess Miller, a 17-year-old park rider from Vermont. I’ve followed [Brand Name] for years and love what your team represents. I’m reaching out to explore sponsorship opportunities.
I’ve attached my resume and media portfolio below. Please let me know if you’d like any additional info.
Thanks for your time!
Jess
5. Be Patient and Follow Up
After you send your application, be patient. Brands receive many sponsorship requests, especially during the start of each season. Give them at least two to three weeks before following up. A polite check-in email shows persistence without being pushy.
In the meantime, continue building your presence. Share clips, engage with the brand’s posts, and stay active in your snowboarding community. Even if you don’t hear back right away, you’re planting seeds. Some brands keep prospects on their radar and reach out when the time is right.
6. Stay Open to Flow or Ambassador Opportunities
Not every sponsorship starts with a full-on pro deal. Many companies offer “flow” sponsorships—this typically means free or discounted gear in exchange for promotion, content, and a relationship that can grow over time. Don’t be discouraged if that’s the offer on the table. Treat it professionally, deliver on your end, and it can open the door to bigger deals down the line.
Similarly, consider ambassador programs. These often focus more on social media presence and lifestyle influence than competitive results. If you’re active online and love repping your favorite brands, these partnerships can be a great stepping stone.
7. Keep Improving and Don’t Give Up
The sponsorship journey takes time. You might not land your dream sponsor on the first try—but every application, edit, and email improves your skills and exposure. Stay focused on progressing your riding, engaging your audience, and living the snowboarding lifestyle with passion and purpose.
Success in Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs comes from talent, yes—but also from hustle, heart, and consistency. Whether you’re just starting or already building momentum, each step you take gets you closer to your goals.
ALSO READ: [Apply for Bobsleigh Sponsorship Programs]
Conclusion
Breaking into the world of Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs might seem intimidating at first—but if there’s one thing you take away from this guide, it’s that the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether you’re throwing down in local terrain parks, filming street edits with your crew, or pushing limits in the backcountry, your passion and dedication are what truly set the foundation for sponsorship success.
The most sponsored snowboarders in the game didn’t wake up one day and find a contract in their inbox. They put in the work. They practiced daily, created with intention, stayed connected to the community, and positioned themselves as more than just athletes. They became storytellers, brand advocates, and positive forces in the snowboarding world. And guess what? That’s something you can do too—regardless of your age, background, or location.
We’ve covered a lot in this guide—from the eligibility requirements and top sponsoring companies to the key documents you need and how to professionally apply. Each part of the process serves a purpose. Knowing what sponsors are looking for helps you sharpen your skills. Understanding the brands helps you align your image. And preparing an authentic, well-thought-out application shows that you’re serious—not just about getting free gear, but about contributing something real to the snowboarding scene.
If you’re still wondering when the “right time” is to start applying, here’s the truth: there’s no perfect time. There’s just your time. If you feel ready—if you’ve got the skills, the energy, and the drive—start today. Build your portfolio. Film your riding. Refine your social media presence. Connect with other riders. And reach out to the brands that inspire you. Even if the answer is “not yet,” you’ve started the relationship. That momentum counts.
And remember sponsorship isn’t the end goal. It’s a tool. It gives you the resources, platform, and opportunities to grow your career and enjoy the sport you love even more. Stay grounded, stay grateful, and don’t let a “no” stop you from riding harder, dreaming bigger, and coming back stronger.
To wrap it all up:
- Be authentic. Sponsors want the real you.
- Be consistent. Show up on the mountain, on social media, and in your community.
- Be strategic. Do your research and tailor your applications.
- Be patient. This is a long game—and you’re just getting started.
- So go chase those lines. Create something epic. And show the snowboarding world what you’re made of. OFFICIAL LINK
FAQs
FAQ 1: What’s the difference between being sponsored and being on a snowboarding team?
Great question and one that many up-and-coming riders ask! While they sound similar, being sponsored and being on a snowboarding team aren’t always the same thing, though they often overlap.
A sponsorship typically refers to a relationship between a rider and a brand, where the rider receives support in the form of free gear, travel expenses, exposure, or financial compensation. In return, the rider promotes the brand through social media, contests, edits, or even just repping the logo on their gear. Sponsorships can be casual (like getting free boards) or more formal (including contracts, monthly stipends, and media obligations).
A team, on the other hand, is a more structured group of riders who represent a brand together. Teams often include a mix of pro athletes, amateur shredders, and sometimes grassroots riders. Being “on the team” usually means you’re featured in the brand’s marketing, have access to team-only events or projects, and are expected to be a more active face of the company. Think of it as leveling up your sponsorship into a tighter, more collaborative role.
You can be sponsored without being on a team, but if your influence grows and you’re aligned with a brand’s values, they might invite you to officially join. That’s when things get really exciting more perks, deeper support, and often lifelong connections within the industry.
FAQ 2: How can younger riders (under 18) get noticed by snowboard sponsors?
If you’re under 18 and dreaming of landing a snowboarding sponsorship, know this: you’re in a prime position to start building momentum. Many major brands love to support young talent through ambassador programs, junior teams, and grassroots sponsorships. But you’ve got to show them why you’re worth investing in.
First off, don’t stress about being the next Shaun White overnight. Sponsors aren’t just looking for Olympic-level skills they’re looking for potential. They want to see dedication, passion, and a willingness to grow. Make it easy for them to follow your journey. Share your progression on social media, enter local competitions, and create short videos showcasing your riding style and personality.
Also, keep your attitude in check humility, respect, and sportsmanship go a long way. Companies are watching how you handle wins, losses, and everyday interactions on and off the snow. They want young riders who are positive role models and represent their brand well.
Involving your parents or guardians is also key. Brands will want to make sure legal things are handled properly—so having a supportive adult who can help with communication and logistics can be a game-changer.
Remember: being young means you’ve got time to grow into your voice and your riding. Focus on the process, not just the prize. Consistency, effort, and a positive mindset will get you noticed faster than trying to fake your way into a sponsorship before you’re ready.
FAQ 3: Is it possible to get sponsored even if I don’t compete?
Yes, 100%. You don’t have to be a contest regular to land a deal in Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs—especially in today’s digital-first world. Brands are expanding their view of what makes a valuable snowboarder, and being influential off the podium is now just as important as being on it.
Let’s face it, not everyone is cut out for competition. Some riders thrive in contests, while others shine through film projects, edits, or creative expression on the mountain. Sponsors love riders who offer something unique: maybe you’re a park rat with wild style, a street snowboarder who films underground edits, or a backcountry soul rider with stunning visuals and stories to tell.
If you’re not competing, focus on content creation and personal branding. Build a strong Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube presence. Share clips regularly. Develop a recognizable style. Show your progression, personality, and passion. Brands want snowboarders who inspire others not just those who rack up medals.
Also, get involved in your local community. Host meet-ups, mentor younger riders, or help with events at your home resort. Community influence is a powerful form of visibility that many sponsors appreciate more than just contest points.
Bottom line? There’s no one-size-fits-all path to getting sponsored. If you love snowboarding and can show the world why that love matters, you’re already halfway there even without a trophy shelf.
FAQ 4: How do I stand out when applying for snowboard sponsorships?
Standing out in the crowded world of snowboard sponsorship applications is all about being unforgettable for the right reasons. You don’t have to be the most famous or land the biggest tricks but you do have to bring something unique to the table.
Start by being authentic. Brands can smell copy-paste emails and forced personalities from a mile away. Instead of trying to impress, aim to connect. Share your real story your roots, your style, what drives you to ride every day. Talk about how snowboarding has shaped you and how you want to give back to the sport.
Next, show your professionalism. This doesn’t mean being stiff, it means being reliable and intentional. Submit a clean, easy-to-read athlete resume. Include a short, punchy video that highlights your best riding and personality. Make your social media look solid update your bio, pin a great video, and keep your content consistent and aligned with the brands you want to approach.
Also, be strategic with your applications. Don’t blast your proposal to 20 companies with the same message. Pick a few that truly fit your style, and explain why you want to ride for them. Reference their team, campaigns, or gear you actually use.
Finally, don’t forget the X-factor: passion. Brands want riders who live and breathe the sport. If you can radiate that energy in your application whether through storytelling, edits, or your tone you’ll rise above the noise.
FAQ 5: What are common mistakes snowboarders make when trying to get sponsored?
Applying for Snowboarding Sponsorship Programs is a big step but there are a few missteps that can hold riders back from securing a deal. The good news? These mistakes are avoidable once you know what they are.
1. Being vague or too general – A lot of snowboarders send out messages like, “Hey, I’m looking for a sponsorship” without any context. That’s a red flag. Sponsors want to know who you are, what you bring to the table, and why you’re interested in their brand specifically. Show effort and customization.
2. Relying too much on talent alone – Shredding hard is essential, but it’s not everything. If you’ve got zero personality online, can’t communicate professionally, or don’t represent yourself well in public, brands might pass you over for someone with less skill but more influence and polish.
3. Neglecting social media – This one’s huge. If your Instagram is dead or your content is all over the place, you’re missing a major chance to stand out. A clean, well-curated social feed is your digital resume treat it like one.
4. Poor quality media – Grainy videos, blurry photos, or unedited clips don’t do your riding justice. Take time to film solid footage, or team up with a local filmer. First impressions matter.
5. Giving up too early – Many riders send one email, don’t hear back, and assume they’re not good enough. Don’t fall into that trap. Brands get tons of requests. Follow up politely, keep riding, and try again with improved materials. Persistence shows passion and passion gets noticed.
