When it comes to choosing a camera for snowboarding or skiing, there is quite a number of cameras to choose from. Cameras ranging from small compact cameras to action cameras and even DSLRs. There is really a lot of options to choose from and this can become quite overwhelming.
However, you should know that choosing a camera depends on what exactly you want from it. Do you want a camera that shoots impressive slow-motion videos or one that ticks all boxes, but comes at a budget price? Well, whatever your reason is, here is a list of the best cameras for snowboarding and skiing that are sure to fulfill all your needs.
Action Cameras for Snowboarding & Skiing
1. AKASO Brave 7 LE
If you are looking for an all-rounder action camera that can be mounted on the helmet when skiing, then the Brave 7 LE is definitely for you. This camera is one of the best action cameras out there for skiing and snowboarding because it offers a wide range of features at a relatively low price. AKASO’s Brave 7 LE action camera outperforms all other rival cameras within its price range.
With this camera, you can capture high-quality 20MP photos and shoot stable 4k videos at 30fps (with the help of its 6-axis stabilization). This camera is also waterproof and comes with HDMI ports and built-in Wi-Fi for remote control. One amazing feature of the Brave 7 LE is its dual-screen (front and rear) design that makes it a perfect action camera for vlogging. It also comes with a weatherproof body so that you don’t have to worry about the moisture of the snow. This camera definitely gives you value for your money.
2. GoPro Hero 9
Without a doubt, Hero 9 is a great ski or snowboard camera; and one that really stands out. This camera is impressive as it packs some premium specs found in very few action cameras. With the GoPro Hero 9, you can shoot 5k videos in 30fps and 4k videos in 60fps, you can also capture high-quality 20MP photos. This camera also has a replaceable exterior camera lens that gives you a wider field of view to capture the spectacular landscape on the slope.
GoPro's Hero 9 also has dual screens with live previewing. It is GPS enabled and comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; and yes, it has image stabilization, which can effectively reduce the camera shake during skiing. However, if you are on a budget, you should note that Hero 9 isn’t exactly cheap. But if you’re not, you can trust this camera to deliver in all areas.
3. AKASO V50 Elite
The V50 Elite camera is another budget-friendly action camera from AKASO that can serve as a great snowboard or ski camera. This camera provides you with everything you need for taking snowboard videos at a really good price. With the V50 Elite, you can shoot 4k videos at 60fps and capture high-quality 20MP photos. It also features advanced electronic image stabilization (EIS) that helps produce stable and smooth videos even you ski some bumps/
This camera also has a 170-degree field of view that allows you to shoot wide-angle videos. To top it all, the V50 Elite also has a voice command feature that allows you to control it using your voice. This can come in handy when you have the camera on a mount or a selfie stick.
Compact Camera for Snowboarding & Skiing
1. Sony RX100 IV
This pocket-sized camera by Sony can be said to be an ideal snowboard cam considering the high-end specs packed into its compact body. The Sony RX100 IV allows for 4K video recording up to 30fps, and with its optical image stabilization (OIS) you can expect to produce smooth skiing videos with ease.
Despite the size of this camera, its battery life is still commendable, and it has built-in Wi-Fi with NFC capability. One mind-blowing thing about the RX100 IV is its ability to shoot slow-motion videos at 1000fps. This is impressive, especially for someone who loves shooting slow-motion videos. If that person is you, then this camera can be a valuable asset for you.
2. Sony A6000
This is another compact camera from Sony that has the specs to be a really good camera for snowboarding and skiing. However, you should know that it lacks some basic features found in modern-day cameras. For example, it can’t shoot 4k videos (it is restricted to 1080p). Also, it does not have image stabilization and a touch screen display.
Nevertheless, the Sony a6000 has a lot of dials and buttons that act as a substitute for a touchscreen display. You can also shoot cinematic Full HD 1080p videos at 60fps or 24fps. This lightweight camera also has a detachable lens which means you can easily swap in other lenses for more creativity.
DSLR for Snowboarding & Skiing
1. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
When it comes to shooting videos, this camera by Olympus does a really good job. It gives you the choice of shooting 4k videos both in cinema 4k mode and UHD 4k mode. It also has built-in stabilization that helps produce smooth videos. Stabilization can further be improved when an Olympus lens with image stabilization is used.
The Mark III has a very solid build that makes it comfortable to hold and operate. It has buttons that allow for easy navigation. To make using it even easier, it is equipped with an LCD touchscreen monitor that can be flipped. One great thing about this camera is that it is also lightweight and can be easily moved around.
How to Carry Your Camera While Skiing
When skiing, there are so many ways you can carry your camera and this depends on what type of camera you hold and what you intend to use it for. Nevertheless, here are some ways in which you can carry your camera while skiing.
Camera mounts: if you are with an action camera, camera mounts are the way to go. You can mount them on your helmet, chest, or even your skis. These cameras are built for impact; hence they can take whatever you throw at them.
Shoulder clip carry: this is a great way to carry cameras that are not exactly lightweight but are also not too heavy. It also enables you to reach for your camera easily when needed.
Backpack: if you are working with a camera that is heavy or a camera that has a number of accessories that need to be attached to it, then a camera backpack might just be what you need.
