I skied for 3 seasons (6 holidays/weeks), and then moved onto boarding for the last 2 seasons (3 holidays/weeks). On both occasions, I went to the "Learn to Board / Ski in a day" course in Snodome (or use Xscape) to learn the basics prior to actual winter holiday. Between the two, I would say snowboarding was a little easier to pick up, but the learning curve was definitely more painful. Looking back, I did lack confidence, but when I did eventually "trust myself", the rest was history as they say.
I admit I am no pro boarder, but I was coping better with red runs far earlier on the board than skis.
If you do board, I suggest you get :
- a quality pair of gloves. Your hands will be in contact with snow a lot during learning, and the last thing you want is a pair of cold & wet hands.
- wrist guards. When you fall forward during learning, almost everyone will put their hands out to "stop" themself which can result in broken wrist bone,..... Saw a fellow learner boarder do this on his first day in Saalbach 2 seasons ago!
- impact pants. Vital piece of equipment as you WILL be able to sit down during apres-ski to rest your aching body.
- helmet. Vital equipment too in my view. Had a nasty backward fall in Snowdome and nearly knocked myself out!! It wasn't pleasant I can tell you.
Whatever you choose, you'll have a great time.
Tom
PS. do some preparation / exercise before you go i.e. light jog up and down your staircase to strengthen your calf & leg muscles or else they are going to hurt after the first day!!