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New Heights in Snowboarding: With the snow level reaching 5,500 feet today, shoppers’ thoughts may also be turning to snowboarding.

An estimated 2.2 million snowboarders will take to the slopes this season, up from 1.9 million during the 1992-1993 season, according to the Surf Industry Manufacturers Assn. in Corona del Mar.

Board sales will hit 162,000 during the season, up from 130,000, according to the association, and apparel sales also are expected to increase.

“Quiksilver’s 1993-94 snowboard apparel bookings are up 80% over 1992-93,” said Quiksilver Vice President Tom Holbrook. “Next year we plan to upgrade the size and volume of the line dramatically.”

Women account for a good chunk of the increases, according to the trade association. While surfing and skateboarding are dominated by men, women account for 30% of snowboarders heading for the hills.

The sport also will benefit from exposure on Prime Ticket Network, which will televise six of the American Pro Snowboard Series events. What’s more, one snowboard manufacturer is decorating boards with designs popularized by the Grateful Dead and reggae great Bob Marley.