You have spent a long day snowboarding and crave some time to relax and catch up with friends, family, and other snowboarders. But you are worried about leaving your snowboard behind and are too tired to drag it and find a safe place to stash it.
Worry not; snowboard locks are your best friend. They offer a secure way of holding your snowboards as you relax after a long day of snowboarding or when you need to dash to the restroom.
Related: Best Headphones For Snowboarding
Snowboarding is an expensive sport; losing your snowboard, the primary gear used in the sport can cause a bit of a nasty shock. Tracking and recovering it is also quite a painstaking and costly venture.
Other than the monetary aspect of the loss, the sentimental value snowboarders attach to their board is huge. To avoid all this, you should invest in a good snowboard lock.
7 Best Snowboard Locks In 2024
In a hurry? Have a quick look at our list of the best snowboard locks in 2024! These locks will keep your things absolutely safe!
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Types of Cable Locks
I grew up in a family of snowboarders, started the sport when I was 4 and began using snowboard locks at 15. I, therefore, have used numerous types of snowboard locks in my lifetime. I know the different types of snowboard locks in the market and some of the best models. Currently, there are three main types of snowboard locks on the market. Some of these include:
Cable Locks
These are the most accessible snowboard locks in the market. They are typically fitted with a retractable cord that you wrap around your snowboard and through the loop bindings on your snowboard. And then finally locking it onto the cable body or board.
These locks are lightweight and pose a very thin and small profile compared to other snowboard locks. This helps you to move around with them during the day easily. They usually require a key or code to unlock and lock.
Rack Locks
They are typically smaller than tether and cable locks. This makes them very convenient and easy to carry around. You must place your snowboard on a ski rack to use these rack locks. You can then use a pin to secure them firmly into place. The pin cannot be removed by anyone else apart from you.
Therefore, before purchasing these locks, you must either account for a ski rack purchase or identify a ski resort with available racks for you to use while snowboarding in the area.
Tether Locks
These locks are quite similar in function to cable locks. They are, however, rugged and feature a heavy-duty design. They also use a key or combination lock to unlock.
To use them, wrap the tether around your snowboard and then thread it through your binding loops. Loops are essential in ensuring that your snowboard is well-secured.
If these are lacking, you may still end up losing your board. These locks also use a key or code to unlock.
You should carefully check the capacity, durability, cost, and how secure the locks before settling on which lock model to buy. These are the criteria I used to decide on the top 7 snowboard locks in 2024.
I lost a snowboard that my parents had gifted me when I was 8, and we were heading for a snowboarding trip, and it was very traumatic. I would not want you to go through the same.
The information in this article is based on tried and tested snowboard locks and the locks listed are a result of in-depth research both in-store and online.
Let’s dive in…
How Do Snowboard Locks Protect Against Theft And Damage?
Snowboard locks come with a retractable cable or coiled leash that you wrap around the snowboard that has been placed onto a ski rack or immovable object.
This ensures that no one can remove it unless they have the key or code needed to unlock the snowboard.
Are Snowboard Locks Worth it?
Snowboard locks are essential in ensuring that your snowboard is well-secured and cannot be stolen. They help free your mind from worrying when you stroll into a coffee shop or around the resort without your board.
Snowboard lock utilizes keys or codes to keep your snowboards safe and secure. The mere sight of locks on your snowboards is enough to deter thieves. Most people tend to leave their snowboards lying around.
The goal is to ensure that yours is not easy to steal. Most thieves do not have enough time to start cutting through locks.
Snowboard locks are a worthy investment, considering how expensive snowboards are. I highly recommend that you make the purchase. It is sure to save you a lot of headaches and monetary loss. It will also help you enjoy your snowboarding experience for longer.
1 . Dakine Micro Lock – Best Overall
This lock’s shell is made of tough plastic and features a 3-digit combination lock for security. This lock is quite compact and lightweight, weighing only 0.1 pounds.
It is robust, and its cable is coated with steel to reduce the appearance of scratches and overall wear and tear.
If you are a traveler or intend to travel throughout the day while snowboarding, this is the ideal choice. The cable takes on a braided form which helps deter thieves away as it is very difficult to cut through.
The cable that comes together with the Dakine micro lock can secure 2 snowboards at a time though it features a tiny profile. This makes it a great option for anyone carrying extra snowboarding gear. A push button on this lock retracts the cable whenever you need to.
This lock can fit easily inside your snowboarding jacket and easily move around. It is also quite versatile. Some of my friends use it to secure their bikes and longboards.
- Small and lightweight
- Easy to use
- Provides additional security and peace of mind
- Compact and easy to carry
- Good value for the price
- Mixed reviews on its effectiveness
- Some experienced issues, while others had no problems
Why Is The Dakine Micro Lock The Best Snowboard Lock In 2024
The Dakine brand is well-trusted and reputable and has over the ages worked to create and innovate gear that works to elevate your snowboarding experience. This lock is a fan favorite for many due to its small size and lightweight nature.
It is a high-performance and durable snowboard lock. It also comes with a long, braided cord that helps you secure more than one ski, providing you with value for money.
The lock uses a combination lock mechanism which is quite convenient. This is because you can carry keys around and avoid losing them. This lock is quite stylish, and the luminous green color is easy to find in case you lose them. These locks are also very easy to carry around due to their low weight.
They are also able to secure more than one snowboard or other snowboarding gear. This ensures that you are able to enjoy more value for your money. I highly recommend investing in this snowboard lock to help keep your gear and board secure.
2 . Ski and Snowboard-Fat Ski Lock – Runner Up
This snowboard lock comes with 2 keys per lock and features a lifetime warranty with purchase. It is quick and easy to operate, making it a convenient snowboard lock. It comes in 5 available colors providing you with flexibility. It comes in blue, orange, yellow, red, and green.
This snowboard is highly durable and has a sleek design. It is lightweight, making it very easy to move around and operate. This compact build features an excellent design that is unmatched. You can always customize it to fit your style.
Unlike cable locks which thieves can cut through if they have sufficient time, this lock cannot be cut. You do not have to worry about combination locks, leashes, or cables with the Fat ski lock. All that is required is a ski rack. The lifetime warranty ensures you do not have to worry when losing a key.
- Easy to use with compatible ski racks
- Provides peace of mind and security for skis
- Compact and lightweight design
- Received quickly and in good condition
- Durable and reliable locking system
- Some users found the lock to be cheaply made
- Lack of widespread usage by other skiers
3 . Bosvision Ultra-Secure 4-digit Combination Lock – Budget Pick
This snowboard lock features a 3 feet cable that is quite thick compared to other cables and a 4-digit combination lock. The steel cable is fully retractable. A push button on the lock allows for cable recoiling.
This cable lock is lightweight in nature. This, however, does not lower the quality of the build. The lock remains sturdy and strong. This lock can be used to secure skis, bikes, and even strollers. You can trust the Bosvision cable lock to keep your gear secure.
The vinyl-coated steel cable is also adjustable, allowing for a secure hold on your snowboards. The lock has an accessory hole that comes in handy when you need to attach a tag for added security.
It features over 10,000 possible lock combinations. This ensures that you are able to come up with a secure password that is difficult to hack. It comes in 3 color options that you can choose from.
This accessory is sure to provide you with value for your money.
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Deters opportunistic thieves
- Provides peace of mind
- Waterproof and snowproof
- Convenient keyless 4-digit lock
- Not sturdy enough
- Cable thickness is insufficient
4 . XCMAN Combination Bike and Snowboard Lock
This snowboard lock is made of alloy steel and plastic material and utilizes a combination lock design. The 76 cm retractable cable helps you secure and tighten your snowboard.
It is quite easy to operate and features a simple retractable button that you press when you need to retract the cable.
This lock is excellently constructed, providing a strong, sturdy, durable, and long-lasting build. It features 10,000 combinations you can easily change whenever the need arises.
It features a secure 4-digit combination code that makes it quite easy to lock and unlock. The braided steel cable is made of high-quality material that is strong, flexible, and cannot be cut.
The lock also features a protective vinyl coating that makes the accessory scratch and weather resistant.
- Provides security for multiple snowboards or expensive equipment
- Functional and effective
- Helps keep items safe
- Convenient for those with multiple boards or equipment
- Sturdy construction
- Unclear instructions for setting the pin
- Design flaw allows cable release to still be activated
5 . Crysto 3-Foot Retractable Cable Password Lock
This snowboard lock is made of vinyl material and features a combination lock. It has a retractable cable password lock that provides a secure and tight fit around objects. It is fitted with a small push button that enables easy cable recoiling.
The cable is coated with vinyl to prevent scratching. It is 90 cm long and uses a 3-digit combination. The Crysto snowboard lock allows you to set your password combination enhancing personalization. It is very easy and quick to use.
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable price
- Easy to use
- Good for low-security areas
- Ideal for securing non-valuable items
- Provides basic theft deterrence
- Suitable for temporary use or as a deterrent against casual theft
6 . Safeman Cable Lock
This cable lock is made of stainless steel, making it quite durable and resistant to rusting and harsh weather elements. The lock comes with 2 keys and is very compact and lightweight, weighing only 126 grams.
This lock closes automatically. You will only need the key for unlocking.
It features 2 loops that provide you with different locking options. The Safeman lock is quite versatile and can be used to secure several gears and accessories. It is also designed with a coating layer that protects your board’s surface and graphics from scratches.
The Safeman’s cable lock keyhole is well protected to ensure that dirt and moisture do not gain entry. This makes it more long-lasting. It is very easy to use and carry around. The body is made of reinforced plastic.
The lock is designed with a round shape that helps you to roll and tuck in the cable after use. All you have to do is turn the black part of this accessory. I recommend giving the spare key to a friend just in case you lose one.
- Compact and lightweight design
- Effective as a deterrent
- Convenient for quick stops and short-term security
- Sturdy and well-made construction
- Versatile and easy to use
- Mixed reviews on its level of security
- Suitable for quick and temporary use
- May require some practice for seamless operation
7 . Hiplok Z LOK Combo Bike Lock
This snowboard lock features a lock-and-hold ratchet design and is robust due to the reinforced steel core material used. It boasts a 43 cm locking diameter, and the main goal is usually to deter thieves since it is very basic in function.
The Hiplok comes uses a three-digit combination lock and has a reset function that allows you to set a new code whenever you need to. It is available in 4 colorways. Green, teal, yellow, and black.
This is the most lightweight snowboard lock model in this review.
Though easy to cut through, you can always shorten the loop to make it more difficult for the thieves to cut or saw through. It comes with a release lever that helps undo the ratchet once unlocked.
- Convenient and lightweight for short-term use
- Fits easily into a pocket or can be attached to handlebars
- Effective deterrent for those without bolt cutters
- Convenient for securing helmets and other small items
- Sturdy and reliable for specific purposes
- Concerns about its long-term reliability
- May not be sufficient for high-risk areas
How To Choose The Best Lock For Your Snowboard In 2024?
To get the best value for money, it is important to consider some factors before purchasing a snowboard lock. Some of them are:
Weight
The weight of your snowboard lock is critical when you want to make a purchase. This is especially so if you spend extended time on the slope. While larger locks tend to be more heavy-duty and durable, carrying them around the whole day is quite challenging.
On the other hand, lightweight snowboard locks tend to be very versatile and easy to carry around. The choice of purchase will depend on your needs and preferences.
Capacity
A snowboard lock’s ability to hold and secure a given number of boards is what is referred to as capacity. If you like to have extra gear in hand in case of emergency, you need to find a snowboard lock that can secure at least 3 snowboards.
This means it should have a long cable and be bigger in size.
Small locks such as the Dakine micro lock are able to secure two boards. These kinds of locks are the perfect choice for anyone who likes to move light and has little snowboarding gear to carry around. These snowboard locks typically hold a maximum of 2 snowboards.
Cost
You should not have to dig too deep into your pockets in order to purchase a snowboard lock. There are very many affordable locks that feature outstanding quality.
It is important to determine how much you are willing to spend before settling on the model you would want to purchase.
Snowboarding gear is quite expensive. It would not be a smart choice to splurge on this accessory if you have a constrained budget or still need to purchase other snowboarding gear.
However, if you know that the resort you ski in has rampant theft cases, then maybe a premium high-end choice would be the best option.
Locking Mechanism
Each lock model carries a unique locking mechanism. There are some that feature combination locks with a variation of digits, such as a 3 or 4-digit code.
This is the most popular snowboard lock model because of how easy it is to use.
The second type of locking mechanism is the traditional key lock method. This is a great option for those who tend to forget easily or have poor memory. Settle for a combination model if you have multiple things to juggle and doubt your ability to remember the passcode.
Brand
There are several brands that have invested in this market. Many such as Dakine have a long-standing experience in outside gear and winter sports innovation. They are well-reputed and trusted by many.
Reputable brands promise you durability and value for your money. They have premium features such as lifetime warranties that offer you financial protection against maintenance and repair costs.
I recommend purchasing your snowboard locks from a well-known brand in the market.
Products from china or unregulated markets may be cheaper but end up costing you more in the long run due to their low quality. You need a snowboard lock that will be able to serve you for an extended period of time without needing to replace it.
Length Of The Cable
Another factor that will help you pick a snowboard lock that is suitable for you is the length of the cord. Do you need to secure more than two boards? Then you require a longer cable.
You will be able to determine how long your cord should be by using the tapes typically used by tailors for measuring. Wrap it around the boards you need to be secured,the measurement you get is what you will require your cable length to be in order to securely fasten your gears.
Security
Thieves are always on the lookout for easy targets and they always go for snowboards that they can break into as quickly as possible. Cable locks that cannot be cut into are a great option.
Heavy-duty combination and key locks also offer a secure hold on your snowboard.
The combination lock is also a smart choice. Always ensure that your pick makes it hard for a thief to break into and your snowboard will be secure.
A braided cable is also usually more strong and sturdy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do The Prices Of These Locks Compare To Each Other And To Other Options On The Market?
This is, however, a subjective matter and is based on your personal preference.
I advise you to work according to your budget when purchasing snowboard locks. This is an expensive sport, and it is wise always to find ways to cut costs whenever possible.
The Safeman and Fat ski locks are the most pricey snowboard locks on this list, averaging about $35. The rest of the models sell between $14 and $11. Quite affordable if you ask me.
While there are many other locks you can look out for in the market that are well-priced, I cannot guarantee the quality as I am yet to use them.
It is important that you, however, carry out in-depth research to get the best lock to suit your needs and preferences. You will not fail to find a lock that fits your budget perfectly.
Are There Any Special Features Or Warranties Offered By The Manufacturers?
The Bosvision and XCMAN lock features over 10,000 possible combinations which you can easily reset whenever the need arises. The XCMAN is also scratch and weather resistant, another feature I like about this model.
The Safeman cable lock automatically locks itself and requires keys only to unlock. It is also rust-resistant and has an additional coating that protects your board’s graphics.
This is perfect for those who are crazy about their snowboard graphics. The Hiplok Z LOK Combo has a release lever that helps undo the ratchet once unlocked.
Though all the snowboard locks listed in this review serve the same function, they are each unique in their design and the material used in construction. The type of locking mechanism also differs.
Take time to carefully go through each before settling on the most appealing one for you.
What Are The Most Common Concerns About Using Snowboard Locks And How Do These Address Them?
The main objective of snowboard locks is to deter thieves, and the models in this review do just that. Most locks have complicated designs that are hard to operate; these snowboard locks are very easy to install and operate.
What Is The Best Way To Store And Transport A Snowboard Lock When Not In Use?
You should, however, store your snowboard lock in a cool and dry place because not all are designed to be resistant to harsh weather elements.
Final Thoughts
It is common for snowboards to go missing once you leave them lying around, whether you are dashing to grab a cup of coffee in a cafe or need to visit a restroom.
The snowboard is undoubtedly the most expensive snowboarding gear in your snowboarding stash. Therefore, you must invest in a decent pair of snowboard locks to avoid suffering irreparable losses.
Have you ever invested in a snowboard lock? I would love to hear about your experience with this essential accessory and your opinions on the snowboard lock models I have shared in this review. Let’s catch up and discuss this further in the comments section!
