snowboard help

[SaiZou]

Hi, I am 52 inches, im wondering what is a good snowboard size i should get?
I want one that is about 5 inches bigger than me.. is that ok?

 

[Twiffles]

Your height (inches) x 2.54 x 0.88 = Suggested Board Length
I say, around a 10 foot snow board.

 

[SaiZou]

so, would a 142 cm board be out of my league?

 

[Sick Wario]

just learning? you'll want a board a bit smaller than recommended to learn on. just under or equal to your chin is a good benchmark. it will be easier to turn and balance while learning.
if you are capable of getting down the hill OK you have to decide if you want a freeride board, or park board.
freeride boards are directional and suited better for carving, park boards are (usually) twin tip and a bit wider for landing stability.

next you'll need to look at your feet. if you feet are size 10+ you will probably need a 'wide' board. one of the worst things you can do in snowboarding is ride a board that is to thin and have toe/heel 'overhang'.
turning, balance, everything will be out of whack

for reference, i am 185lbs, 5'11 size 11 foot. this season i am riding a libtech TRS MTX 157 for park and rome agent 158 for everything else

PM me for more info (i was a snow school instructor for 4 years)

PS BURTON BLOWS MY ASS do not buy burton

edit-no matter what anyone tells you there is no 'formula' to find the right board size.