holly, how tall are u? make sure u rent a board that goes up to about between ur nose and chin. second, make sure that the boots u get are snug but not tight. third, when u buckle ur bindings in (assuming u get ratchet bindings) make sure its snug but not tight. if it is too tight, it will cut off circulation and ur feet will go numb. if it is too loose, u will crash and thast not good. snwoboarding is harder to learn than skiing especially if u have gone skiing before but its better than skiing. if u have any other questions, talk with me on aim, (snowboarddude360). hope u have fun!