TOP 5 ON-HILL SNOWBOARD SNACKS
It can be tricky trying to find a good snack or small lunch for snowboarding. You have to make sure it won’t melt, freeze, or get crushed or squished too easily. You also have to consider if it will fill you up enough but not too much. As you want to save room for the real feast at the end of the day when Après begins; plus it can be rough strapping in again with a full stomach.
Additionally, you don't always want to carry a bag while riding or have to head back to the car, so sometimes something pocket-sized is a priority as well.
If you have found yourself in this pickle before, don’t worry; we've got you!
Our team has been boarding for years and we have narrowed down our top 5 favorite on-hill snowboard snacks that can withstand the elements and will keep you shredding longer. Without further ado, check them out below.
1) Fig Bars
I know, I know, not everyone’s favorite, but hear me out! I am talking specifically about the Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars typically seen at Costco and Sam’s Club. They are plant-based and come with 3g of Fiber and Protein to keep you full. Plus, 38g of Carbs and 200 Calories per pack to give you energy. They don’t freeze, then don’t melt, and they actually taste good. Give ‘em a try!
2) String Cheese sticks/Babybels
If you are lactose intolerant, you can skip this one, but if not, then we highly recommend one of these pocket-sized portions of cheese. A classic String Cheese Stick or the more refined Babybel is a great source of protein that won’t get squished and won’t make a mess. Perfect for something more substantial when your stomach starts grumbling on that side-country morning hike.
3) Bacon
One of our personal favorites at Slash Board Shop, pocket bacon! Truly a meaty treat for shredding the gnar hard. It is a great protein source with a delicious taste. A taste that reminds you that “you’re not at the office today” and that “today is your day!” It's a perfect way to set the tone for a snowboarding trip or lift spirits in the afternoon when the hanger starts to set in. No specific brand or style is required here; just choose your favorite brand, prep it how you like, and stow it in your pocket for later. Don’t blame us, though, if people in the lift line ask for a piece. (Learn more about Pocket Bacon)
4) Fruit Snacks/Gushers
For those with a sweet tooth, we recommend Fruit Snacks and/or Gushers. Other chewy candies, such as Twizzlers or Dots, can get quite hard to chew at lower temperatures. Whereas Fruit Snacks and Gushers stay relatively soft and warm up quickly in the mouth. If you want a bit less of a sugar spike and cavity risk, you can lean into the healthier variety of fruit snacks with less sugar and more natural ingredients. But if you don’t give a — and want all that sweet, chewy goodness, then jump on the gusher train and enjoy! Sometimes, a little sugar spike is all you need to get a second win and give boardsliding that flat box in the small park one more try.
5) Lunchables/Balanced Breaks
We got to end on the big ones, Lunchables and Balanced Breaks. If you are the kind of shredder that needs some more serious sustenance, then these options are for you. Lunchables offer a variety of options and sizes, allowing you to customize your choice to your preference for the day, from pizza to nuggets to ham & cheese and so much more. Giving you some protein, carbs, sugar, and energy all in one. Some Lunchables may be too large for a pocket, but a small backpack will get this challenge sorted, and you’ll hardly notice it’s there. Now, if you like this idea but want something more…adult, then check out HillShire Snacking. A more sophisticated “lunchable” for the middle-schooler in all of us. These also pair well with an afternoon Ale or Wine if that’s more your vibe. Lastly, we have the Balanced Breaks by Sargento. What I love about these is the fact that they actually do fit in a pocket and are simply a down-sized Lunchable. So, if you really don’t want to bring a bag or head back to the car during the day, then Balanced Breaks may be the answer for you. They come in a wide range of “flavors” with items such as sharp cheddar, fruit snacks, cookies, teddy grams, nuts, raisins, crackers, pepper-jack cheese, and more. So, no matter what you crave, Balanced Breaks has you covered.
We at Slash Board Shop know that there are a lot of options to consider, and many that we didn’t touch on. Thus, out of respect for the snacking industry, here is a list of honorable mentions to check out as well:
Honorable Mentions
Meat Sticks/Slim Jims
Jerky
Bananas (just don’t fall on it)
Protein Bars (careful of melty chocolate and freeze risk)
Red Vines
Uncrustables/PB & J’s (in a well-sealed container/bag)
Grilled Chicken Bites
Apple/Fruit Sauce Squeeze Packs
Let us know in the comments below if we missed any top snacks, and have a great time on the slopes this weekend. Happy snacking!