A 360 camera films everything around you at once, so you pick the angle later when you edit. On a selfie stick, the stick disappears from the footage, and the shot looks like it was filmed by a drone following you. Here are the best 360 cameras for snowboarding, then what to look for.
Best 360 Cameras for Snowboarding
- Insta360 X5: The most popular 360 camera for snowboarding. Great image quality, even in low light, excellent FlowState stabilization and the invisible selfie stick effect. The lenses are replaceable, so a scratch from a fall is an easy fix, and a built-in wind guard cuts wind noise. Waterproof. Buy a spare battery. Check price
- GoPro MAX2: Tough, with 8K 360 video, replaceable lenses, HyperSmooth stabilization and built-in GoPro mounting fingers, so it works with all your GoPro mounts. Not as easy to use as the Insta360. Check price
- Ricoh Theta X: Slim and light, with 5.7K video and a 2.25-inch touchscreen. Less rugged than the others, so it needs extra protection for hard riding. Check price
What to Look For
- Resolution: Get at least 5.7K. In 360 video, the pixels are spread around the whole sphere. When you crop to a normal frame, a lower resolution looks soft. Lens and sensor quality matter too.
- Stabilization: Built-in stabilization like FlowState or HyperSmooth is essential for smooth footage.
- Toughness and waterproofing: Look for a rugged body and a waterproof rating. Replaceable lens guards are worth it, because the lenses stick out and scratch easily.
- Glove-friendly controls: Big buttons, a usable touchscreen or voice control.
- Battery life: Cold drains batteries fast. Carry spares, or pick a camera that can run off a power bank.
- A good app: You'll edit most 360 footage on your phone. Check the app is easy to use.
How to Mount a 360 Camera
- Selfie stick: The classic 360 shot. Hold it out to the side or overhead, and the stick vanishes from the footage.
- Helmet mount: Shows your point of view, with you in the frame.
- Chest mount: Lower and more stable.
Practice at home first. Record a few clips, preview them and try different mounts before your first run.
The Bottom Line
For most riders, the Insta360 X5 is the easiest to use and gives the best results. If you already own GoPro mounts, the GoPro MAX2 fits right in.
