
The Burton Custom X takes no prisoners and doesn't have time for messing around. It wants speed under it and wants you take it as high on its edge as you dare to go.
Yes, it's a little more forgiving than it once was, but its still predominantly all about bombing hard and leaving the slow-go areas to other riders.
In this review, I will take a look at the Custom X as an aggressive all-mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Custom X a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other aggressive all-mtn snowboard snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Burton Custom X 2025
Price: $849
Style: Aggressive All-Mountain
Flex Rating: Medium-Stiff (6-9/10)
Flex Feel on Snow: Stiff (8/10)
Rating Score: 91.0/100
Compared to other Men’s Aggressive All-Mountain Boards
Of the 18 current model aggressive all-mtn snowboards that we tested:
❄️ The Custom X ranked 2nd out of 18
Overview of the Custom X'S Specs
Check out the tables for the Custom X’s specs and available sizes.
STYLE:
aggressive all-mtn
PRICE:
$849 - BUYING OPTIONS
Ability Level:

flex:

feel:

DAMPNESS:

SMOOTH /SNAPPY:

Playful /aggressive:

Edge-hold:

camber profile:

Traditional Camber
SHAPE:
setback stance:
SETBACK 12.5mm (0.5")
BASE:
Sintered- Burton's "WFO"
weight:
FELT A LITTLE LIGHTER THAN Normal
Camber:
12mm!
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
---|---|---|---|
150 | 248 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
154 | 250 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
156 | 252 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
158 | 254 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
162 | 256 | 180-260+ | 82-118+ |
158W | 262 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
162W | 264 | 180-260+ | 82-118+ |
166W | 266 | 180-260+ | 82-118+ |
Who is the Custom X Most Suited To?
The Custom X is very much a beast and is best suited to those like to ride aggressively and have the technique and physical strength to ride a stiffer, fully cambered board aggressively. If that's you and you love to carve, then this board will repay your efforts tenfold.
It's not quite as hardcore/unforgiving as it once was, so it feels a little more well rounded than it used to be, but it's still certainly one for more aggressive riding and prefers high speed over low speed any day of the week.
Would make a good one-board-quiver for someone who likes to ride aggressively and doesn't often go in deep powder. And a great compliment to a multi-board quiver with a more freeride/powder oriented board, and/or a more park/freestyle oriented board or a more mellow board in general, if you were to want something that you could use to play around with on days your tired or riding with less capable riders, etc.
Not for beginners and even intermediate riders are likely to find it hard work. This is still for advanced to expert riders, IMO.
TEST/REVIEW DetailS FOR THE Custom X

O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Custom X is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Burton Custom X 2025, 156cm (252mm waist width)
Date: February 6, 2024
Powder
Nothing fresh or too deep to test in on the day, but based on specs and feel, it's not going to be more than average in powder.
It has a bit of setback stance and the nose is a bit longer than the tail, but otherwise not much else going for it in powder. Should still handle shallow powder OK, but probably a back leg burner in deeper powder.
Increasing the setback will help it to float better in powder for sure, if you're willing to do that on a powder day, but it's still not going to make it an epic powder floater, IMO.
Carving
I felt this thing to be an absolute carving beast! While I feel like it's a little more forgiving and not as stiff as it once was, it still performs carves like it was born to. High speed long radius carves felt sick, but it was also really good at more moderate speed, shorter radius carves.
I was on the 156, and I think the 158 would be the best size for me in this board. So, that would translate to subtly even better on higher speed carves and subtly not quite as good for slower, shorter radius carves, generally speaking.
But no matter which way I look at it, this is one of the better carvers going around (not counting more specialized carving boards, which we don't test).
Turning
Ease of Turning/Slashing: I rode the Custom after I rode the Custom X and also, like every time I test, did some control laps on my control board (Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker) and the Custom X was certainly harder to initiate turns on and felt like it had more consequences for badly executed slashes.
However, compared to older models, it was certainly easier than it used to be.
Maneuverability at slow speeds: This board is really all about high speed riding, so slow speed maneuverability isn't much of a thing for it to consider - and it wasn't super agile at slower speeds - certainly not as nimble as the TW or regular Custom.
But again, it is better in this area than some older models. Likely down to the slightly more forgiving overall feel and because of how light the board is. But still certainly not its forte.
Catchiness: The most catchy, particularly at slower speeds, when compared to the Custom and TW, but overall nothing super catchy. Another thing that this board is better for than older models. And quite surprising given its flex and the camber. I have to assume the contact points were detuned - but that's easy enough to do if you want to.
Speed
I actually felt like there was a limit to how fast you could ride this thing, which is the downside of it being a little more forgiving, but in saying that, it still handled high speeds really well. And that limit came only at really high speeds. And even then, it's not like it couldn't handle it - it just started feeling a little less stable.
And if I'd been on the 158, that speed ceiling would have been a little higher.
Uneven Terrain
Crud/Chunder: The other downside to being softer/a little more forgiving (and a downside that lightness in a board has) is that it's not quite as bulletproof in crud. But that statement shouldn't be mistaken for saying that it doesn't hold up well in crud, because it does. It's simply that it's not as invincible in crud as it once was and compared to some other damper, stiffer, heavier boards.
It's not easy for this board to get bucked around, but it can happen and a lot of that is down to its lightness, I would say. But it's certainly still more stable than the average board in crud, in my experience.
Trees/Bumps: On the flip side, the Custom X is an improved board for weaving between bumps. Still certainly not its forte, by any means, but it's not as fatiguing and as much hard work as it used to be to dart around between trees and bumps.
Jumps
Another area where I prefer the newer Custom X's is for jumping. Previously I found it too hard to get it popping, which was frustrating, knowing that if I could get the pop out of it, there would be ample there.
Pop: Still not super easy to access, but easy to access than in older models and that meant I could actually explore this things total pop to a greater extent. And it didn't disappoint. I still prefer easier access, but if you're willing to put in a bit of work to access it, the Custom X delivers oodles of total pop.
It didn't surprise me then that when I measured this things highest camber point after riding it, that it measured at 12mm! Which now that I look at it, is the most pronounced camber that I've measured (have had a couple at 11.5mm, but this is the first that I've measured to reach 12mm).
Approach: Definitely favors stability over maneuverability, but has a little better balance than it once did.
Landing: You can really stomp a landing on this thing and when you get it right, man does it feel good. But it can be a little unforgiving of errors and not the easiest to make sudden quick maneuvers or quick speed checks.
Side-hits: It wasn't my favorite for side-hits, but certainly wasn't bad either.
Small jumps/Big jumps: Definitely favors bigger jumps, where you need stability on approach and landing.
Switch
It was somewhat sketchy on transitions, just because of that stiff torsional flex and mega bow of camber. But it wasn't anything too bad, so long as you weren't day dreaming or distracted by something.
And it felt relatively similar riding in both directions. Though, being a more technical and physically demanding ride, it can make riding switch a little more difficult if you're new to it or aren't that good at it yet.
Spins
Setup can be a little sketchy, as per switch transitions, but nothing too bad. Same with completing an under-rotation after landing, but it's certainly doable.
Doesn't over spin after landing and in general feels easy to rotate, probably largely due to its lightness.
Jibbing
No thanks. I took it there, because I take every board that I test there, but it's not a board that I would optionally take down the jib line. But that said, I'm not a strong jibber, so someone more adept would have a better time with it, I'm sure. But certainly not its forte.
Butters
Not as hard as you'd think to press the nose and tail, given its overall flex. But definitely still requires a bit of muscling to get it locked in. And I would be very impressed by anyone who could over-flex the nose or tail of this board.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
FACTOR | Rating (/5) | Weighted |
---|---|---|
Speed | 4.5 | 22.5/25 |
Carving | 5 | 20/20 |
Turns | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
Jumps | 4 | 12/15 |
Powder | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
Crud | 4 | 8/10 |
Trees | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
Switch | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL (after normalizing): | 91/100 |
The Custom X is stiff, light and aggressive. It's been that way for a long time. It is now a little more forgiving/well rounded than in some older models, but it's still the kind of board you get for riding fast and carving hard.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
To learn more about the Custom X, or if you're ready to buy, or if you just want to research prices and availability, check out the links below.

To check out some other aggressive all-mtn snowboard options, or to see how the Custom X compares to others, check out our top rated aggressive all-mtn snowboards by clicking the button below.
How is this board compared to a Rome Rene-gade? I have these two boards in mind, and there is a $300 USD difference.
Hi Emmanuel
They are both beasts. And more similarities than differences. But these are some things to consider in your decision.
– The Custom X is a little better for carving, in my experience, but both good for this.
– I found the Custom X to also be a little better for slower speed turns
– The Rene-Gade was a little more stable in crud, but again, both were good.
– The Custom X is noticeably lighter. I rode both 2025 models in 156s and the Custom X weighed in at 2,720 grams (6lbs) and the Renegade at 2,880 grams (6lbs 6ozs). 160 grams (6oz) doesn’t sound like a lot, but it’s definitely noticeable. That extra weight on the renegade does probably help it with its stability in crud, so there are pluses to heavier boards as well as minuses.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate, as from our previous interactions, another great review. I was looking to upgrade my Salomon Super 8 as I’m finding I’ve outgrown it, way too much chatter and wobble when trying to ride aggressively on steep blacks or bombing blues. I’ll put that one aside until I start learning some jumps and park stuff.
I was looking at a Jones Flagship or the Burton Custom X, and read your review and really liked the idea of the Custom X (plus cheaper here in Australia and easier to find).
Lo and behold, Burton were doing a demo day a few days ago and I jumped on the Custom X 58. I’m 85kg, 178cm tall and boot 10, was hoping for the 56 but it was being used. Awesome board, and really matches your description although I never found it tricky to manage, it is such a responsive board going edge to edge effortlessly and it had no chatter at all. Burton supplied some Cartel X bindings as well, which are the same bindings I use personally. So I bought the 56 as last year’s model was on sale as I think that size will be more fun.
Shame I have to wait until next season to test it, as I won’t be able to hit the slopes again for the remainder of our short Australian season.
Hey Anthony
Great to hear you were able to test it and you found it on sale. Hope it treats you well when you finally get to get it out on snow! Note that the production model will likely feel a little stiffer (depending on how much the demo model had been used) – though given you’re going to the 56, you may not notice it.
Hi NAte!
sad to see the Slash Atv has disappeared from the list… I owe 1 but thinki9ng to maybe change to a Burton custom X or just custom/ deep thinker.
Any comparison/ difference between these 3?
Keep ripping…
Rob
Hey Rob
Thanks for your message. Yeah, unfortunately haven’t been able to test an ATV for a while and Slash changed their specs for it to a 5/10 flex. If that’s accurate, then it’s a much softer board than it used to be and is likely no longer aggressive. But in any case, it had changed too much (at least on paper) to be able to update the review (or consider it for the list) until I get onto a more recent model (which I hope to this winter).
Between the Custom and Custom X, really the biggest difference is the flex. The Custom is really just a softer flexing Custom X in a lot of ways. There are some other differences, but that’s the main thing and that’s how it feels. So between those two, it depends on how stiff/aggressive you want to go. If you want the flex a little more mellow, making it a little more versatile (IMO – because it’s better riding slow, in trees, more freestyle stuff etc, and still good for speed/carving, but just not as good as the Custom X) – so depends if you want to go a little more mellow (but still more aggressive than playful for sure) and something that sacrifices a little bit of high speed performance for better slow speed performance (but still more oriented to moderate to high speeds than slower speeds) or if you want to really optimize it’s high speed/carving abilities.
The Deep Thinker is a little different. I found it a little softer flexing than the Custom (6/10 vs 6.5/10), and it’s more directional. It’s still something you can ride switch and doesn’t feel super weird or anything and has enough tail there for tail heavy landings and that kind of thing. But better for powder, with it’s more directional shape and early rise rocker in the nose. It’s the most mellow of the 3, in my experience, but not too far off the Custom in that sense. But it’s something you can get a little more playful with when you want to.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, I’m planning on getting the new custom X with step on genesis ans photon boots… you think it’s a good set up? I come from custom x with est genesis x and photon boots… I’m switching to step ons…
Thanks
Hey Diego
Thanks for your message. I think that will work. Ideally though, I’d look to go a little stiffer with the bindings (I felt the Genesis Step On at around a 6/10 flex). That said, the way Step Ons work, I think you’d still get good response out of them on the Custom X. But you could step up to the Step On X to get a stiffer binding on there – and the Ion boots. That would probably be ideal. But the Photon/Genesis Step On combo would certainly work, IMO.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Hi Nate
Thanks for all of your work on the website, it is an amazing resource that I consistently use as my go to gear review site. It has helped me tremendously in the past when choosing new gear. I would love to get your opinion on whether I should get a custom X to add to my quiver.
background:
-6’2, ~265 pounds athletic, size 10 boots
-Aussie – 10 years riding, ride 10-15 days/year in mostly ice/slush
-Ideally get another 5-10 days per year Northern hemisphere every 2 years or so
-Very rarely do any park, prefer carving groomers, side hits, & tree runs
-Using your page for skill level, I would place myself between intermediate 6 and advanced 7.
Current gear:
– Boots = Driver X size 10 (the comfiest boots I’ve ever worn! – would kill for a double boa version but otherwise won’t be changing from these
– 2018/19 Deep Thinker 160 – I use this for when we have fresh snow and can get off piste, carves really well, and fantastic in the trees with fresh snow (usually slush…). Have about 45 days on this board.
– 2018/19 Free Thinker 160 – Use this for all other times, icy, no fresh snow etc., focus on sidehits & carving. Have close to 40 days on this one.
– 2019 (?) Genesis X EST in M (the last year they were made)
– Frankenbindings – 2016 EST Diode (had the trampoline spring bed as a footbed), 2015 diode highbacks, and current cartel X straps. Both bindings interchange fairly regularly & match well with the boots/bindings, GenX when riding a bit more mellow really.
I have recently picked up some new gear on a fantastic sale that I haven’t gotten to ride yet – a 2020 straight chuter 162 , and 2020 X EST L bindings. The plan was to add this as the overseas (Japan/Canada) board, or if there’s a ridiculous local dump. Based on your old straight chuter review you said it rode as a free-ride Custom X, which seemed like it would be a good addition to the quiver (the bindings were just too good of a deal to turn down!).
I am considering getting a Custom X. Firstly, do you think that it is a significant upgrade over the Free Thinker? I love the Free Thinker, so I’m wondering if a Custom X would add much to the current quiver. I’ll keep the Deep Thinker for tree days, and the chuter for overseas/powder days, so I suppose it would mean the free thinker is relegated to late season dirt days! I’d pair the Chuter/Custom X with the X EST bindings.
Finally, do you have an opinion on the best size to go for? I’ve been eying the 162 but really not sure.
Thanks for all of your help Nate.
Cheers,
Mark
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I agree that pairing the X EST with the Straight Chuter is a good call and with the Custom X, if you were to get one.
Custom X vs the Freethinker. The Custom X is stiffer. The Freethinker of the 18/19 vintage was stiffer than it’s more recent iterations, but it’s still not as stiff as the Custom X. Custom X vs 18/19 Freethinker, I would say:
– Custom X better for aggressive, high speed carves
– Custom X more stable at speed
– Free Thinker a little easier for slow speed turns and slashes (though not as big of a difference as the more recent models, which are a bit more mellow than the 18/19)
– I preferred the Freethinker for jumps, sidehits, riding switch and a little easier to butter with
– I preferred the Free Thinker in the trees but not by as much difference as with more recent models
– Custom X a little better in powder, but you have other boards for that
I think if you are finding the Free Thinker doesn’t hold aggressive high speed carves as well as you’d like, then there would be a reason to switch to the Custom X. But if you don’t have any issues with it for that, then I think the Free Thinker sounds like it’s working for you and I would prefer it for side hits. I think the Free Thinker makes a lot of sense in terms of complimenting the rest of your quiver. The Custom X does too, but I’d only change if you feel like you need something stiffer/burlier than what the Free Thinker is giving you.
Size-wise, if you were to get Custom X, I think the 162 is your best bet. Purely based on specs, I would say your size is more 165+, but given that you’re used to boards more in that 160 range, I think going longer than 162, given you’ve been riding this long and what you’re used to, would feel a bit big now. Also, with the Custom X, you can’t go longer than 162 without going wide and I wouldn’t go wide with this board for you.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the review those really help.
Just got one question, what is the best binding for custom x, I see your guys test with malavita. but I heard people saying that vita is not a good binding for custom x. I got a vita already, just wondering do I need another binding for this
Hi ZT
Thanks for your message. I wouldn’t ideally pair it with the Vita. That’s our control binding, so we tend to test everything with that. I would ideally match it with a stiffer binding. I’d go with at least a 7/10 flex and anything up to a 10/10 flex, depending on how stiff you like it. I’d be looking at something from one of the following:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
Hope this helps
Thank you so much, I just start to learn to match my bindings and board recently. Curious about what will happen if I put a stiff binding in a soft board and a soft binding in a stiff board.
Hi ZT
If you go a little bit stiffer or a little bit softer it won’t be super noticeable. Most people probably won’t notice it consciously anyway. But when you go significantly too soft or too soft, relative to the board, then it becomes very noticeably, in my experience. A stiff binding on a softer board can make that board feel twitchy. A too soft binding on a stiff board and you want be able to drive the board hard enough. Said another way you won’t be able to supply it with the energy/force it needs to perform well – which can make turns feel slow and labored – and you can put enough force onto the edges, easily enough, to get a stiffer board up on edge and hold it there for carves and the likes – you still can of course, but it takes more effort and is sub-optimal. Hope that makes sense.
Hi Nate,
Reading the article it seems that you’ve ridden the 2023 model. Are there any changes in the board compared to earlier ones (e.g. mine is 2021)? Anything you would have noticed when riding?
Cheers,
Jussi
Hi Jussi
The 2021 model should be the same as the 2023 model. I mean depending on how much you’ve ridden it, they might feel a little different. Over time, with a lot of riding boards do tend to soften up over time in terms of flex. But a brand new 2021 Custom X vs a brand new 2023 Custom X should be no major noticeable differences.
Thanks Nate,
I really like that board (picked it up from your review, thank you for that) and am riding it quite a bit, so I guess it will gradually “flex away” from what it was. It doesn’t feel like it needs replacement yet, but then again, it would be difficult to notice these gradual changes, if there isn’t a new board to compare to. I guess I’ll give it a few more seasons and then buy a new Custom X – whether it has some new features in it or not 😉
For variety, maybe I’ll have to consider another board into my quiver… any suggestions?
I really like the Custom X for most riding I do, so not looking for a do-it-all board, but rather something that’s extremely good for something.
– Perhaps an even better carving board? Or is there anything significantly better, other than hard boot boards?
– Or maybe something more playful for quicker turns, playing on the edge, buttering…? Not looking for a park noodle though, I’d still prefer an aggressive board.
Or some other board that would help expand my “range” in snowboarding in some way? I currently do a lot of carving (Customer X works pretty well for switch, too) and a bit of straight air in small to medium jumps. Parkwise, rails or anything that really hurts to fall on will probably always be off-limits. I already have two hybrid boards, a solid and a splitboard, so for the rare opportunity of powder and backcountry I’m covered.
This isn’t probably an easy or very well formulated question but if you, having ridden so many different kinds of boards, happen to come up with an exciting model to try on, that’d be very nice to hear about.
Hi Jussi
Given you have the Custom X (and yeah definitely no need to upgrade it to a newer model yet, if you have the 2021 – should do you for a good few more seasons) and since you’re covered for powder days, I would look at something a little more chill – and a little more freestyle focused. Given you still want some aggressiveness out of it and don’t want to go too soft, I would look at the following:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Within that list I’d say the Bataleon Whatever and Jones Tweaker are probably a little too mellow for what you’re looking for but the rest could be options. The Niche Crux, TRS, RC C3 are the more aggressive in that list (but still not stiff/aggressive enough for our aggressive all-mountain freestyle list), then the DOA would be the next most aggressive, then the Greats/Proto Synthesis/Rider’s Choice/Assassin – still some aggressiveness to them and not what I’d call playful but right in between playful and aggressive, if that makes sense.
Hi,
I’m 6’2′, 240 Lbs. My ride day is up at the top with some back and forth thru edge to edge on the more narrow and bumped up runs, to carving at speed in the wide and open somewhat groomed spaces from the middle 2/3rds of the hill down. Occasionally, I will end up in powder that accumulates on the runs if its snowing. I’m not really a between the trees or park guy.
I was looking at the Burton Custom X Camber either in 162W or 166W (which?) and was interested in your feedback on that board or another u might recommend
Mickey
Hi Mickey
Thanks for your message.
Given what you’re describing, I think the Custom X would be a good bet. I think the 166W is your best size match, so that’s what I’d be leaning towards. If you wanted to keep things a little more maneuverable and mellow, then the 162W works too. It’s in range, but at the smallest end of your range, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate, I’m trying to decide between the Burton Custom X, the Ultra Mountain Twin, and the Capita Mega Merc.
I like to drive fast most of the time but also a little bit slower sometimes. I want to do jumps and side kicks and also do some powder.
What are the main differences between these boards and which one would you recommend?
What size would you recommend? I’m 182cm, 85kg and size 10 boots.
Hi Daniel
Thanks for your message.
I’d be leaning between the UMT and Mega Merc, only because they’re a little better in powder and you mention powder. The Custom X will hold up fine in shallower powder, so if you don’t tend to see anything too deep, then it’s not going to make a big difference and that would still be the option. IMO, the UMT is the easiest to ride slow of the 3, but not quite as good at speed or on a carve. Still good, but not as good. So there’s a bit of a trade off there.
Size-wise, I’d be looking at:
Custom-X: 158 (but 162 is a possibility if you wanted more stability at speed and float in pow at the sacrifice of a slow speed maneuverability)
UMT: 160
Mega Merc: 159 (but 161 is still a possibility if you wanted more stability at speed and float in pow at the sacrifice of a little slow speed maneuverability)
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate,
I’m at a loss for this season. Think I waited too late and now I’m stuck in a bad spot if I want to change equipment now. Been riding a 2010 Custom 156 for a decade. I’m 145lb, 5’7″, size 9 boots, so it’s a bit big for me, but I appreciate the stability at high speed and have been dealing with it for years – even though I struggle on super quick turns or riding switch. I love to rip it, but I also want to improve my skills at switch and in the park, which are definitely lacking.
Pretty sure my ideal board was a new Custom 154, but they are sold out everywhere. I can get a Custom 150, though I think it will be drastically worse at high speeds, or change to a 154 Custom X. I think the Custom X will prevent me from improving in the park. Normally stuck in the shitty midwest on less than ideal snow, but I have a Denver trip planned in a few weeks. Honestly I think like this isn’t my year for new gear, but I’ll wait for your advice.
Also – what do the size calculators use, geared weight or naked weight. I can’t find a good answer online. I’m 145lb without gear. The internet ponders around the difference but is definitely naively indecisive on a real answer.
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
With regards to size calculator and weight, everything on this site is based on naked weight – and from most brands that I’ve talked to, their weight recommendations tend to be naked weight as well. Can’t say for sure if that’s across the board though.
I would put your size at around 153 for your “standard all-mountain” size. Given that you’ve been riding a 156, I think 154 would be fine, but anything 152-154 should work well for you, IMO. Going 150 might be a bit too small, given that you’re used to a 156 – and it’s sizing down a bit from the 153 mark. If you were going to be using it predominantly as a freestyle/park deck, then I think 150 would be a good size, but if it’s going to be your one board quiver, I think it’s getting a little too small, particularly given you like to bomb and are used to the stability the 156 gives you.
The Custom X is quite a stiff board and certainly one that would be tricky for progressing in the park, IMO.
You could look at the Burton Blossom, if you could find a 152 and wanted to keep things Burton and full camber. Or the Free Thinker 154 – these are more freestyle oriented decks, but can certainly handle carving and bombing well too.
Some other full camber board options include:
– YES Jackpot 152 – I wouldn’t go any longer in this board than that, it’s quite wide
– Arbor Shiloh Camber 153 – though note that Arbor’s camber doesn’t quite feel like full camber usually does
– Custom 154 of course as you’ve mentioned, but sounds like you don’t availability for it
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, I just bought a Burton custom 150 2021. I tried it yesterday on the slopes in ice conditions and I found it a little bit unstable. I have now a concern if I should have bought a 154 or I am not good enough (I think I am an intermediate…). I am 130 lbs (59 kg) and 5’7″ (170cm). Please be a psychologist…
Hi Marco
Thanks for your message.
I think 150 is a good size for your specs. Is it the Custom or Custom X? And I’m assuming it’s the camber version? Not sure that a bigger board is going to help you in icy conditions and for your specs, I think 154 is a bit on the big side. You could try a wider stance and see how that goes – I often find a wider stance in icy conditions gives me more stability.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Yes, it is a Custom and not X. Camber version. I will try the wider stance. Thank very much for the suggestion.
Which board would you suggest for ice conditions on slope?
PS I am motivated to improve my capability on ice…
Hi Marco
If you’re looking for something with a similar camber profile to the Custom and a similar flex, then something like the Niche Crux (150) is worth looking at (though it’s a little softer than the Custom, IMO, but a little better in icy conditions. But the best options for icy conditions, in my experience, around that size, in an all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle board would be:
– YES Greats 149
– GNU Rider’s Choice 151.5
– YES Standard 151 or 149
Some other options, not quite as good in icy conditions, but still good, IMO:
– Jones Mountain Twin 151
– Lib Tech Box Knife 151
– Salomon Assassin (or Pro) 150
If you could also let me know your boot size, to confirm sizings.
My instinct is leaning towards 149 YES Greats or 150 Niche Crux.
Thank you very much for your suggestion and hoping in better snow conditions!
Your very welcome Marco. Happy riding – and hope you get some good conditions to ride in soon!
Hi Nate, thanks for the great reviews, I have a 2021 capita bsod in 159cm, I m 5 foot 8 and 190 lbs, size 9 boots, I m a strong rider, riding for 30 years now, how would you compare this board to the bsod?
The bsod is great at high speed but not very nimble edge to edge for my liking, I have union falcors on it and also tried Rome cleavers witch felt catchy.
Would this board be better for high speed bombing and carving and faster edge to edge than the bsod or should I try a better binding like the Atlas FC or Flux XF on my bsod.
Thanks for your time.
Hi Marek
Thanks for your message.
IMO the Custom X is going to be better for bombing and carving – that’s definitely the forte of this board, in my experience. In terms of being faster edge to edge, I wouldn’t say that it is necessarily. However, with size 9s, I think it would be a little quicker edge to edge if you’re going 158 Custom X versus 159 BSOD. The BSOD is on the wide side for it’s regular width sizes (the 159 is 267mm front insert, 268mm back insert and 259mm waist width). The Custom X 158 is around 264mm at the inserts and a 254mm waist. Doesn’t sound like a big difference, but that does make a noticeable difference. So size-for-size, comparing those two sizes, I would say that you would get quicker edge to edge out of the Custom X 158 vs BSOD 159, given your boot size.
Hope this gives you more to go off.
Thanks for your advice Nate.
What would be your binding recomendations for the custom x and the Bsod.
Keep up the good work.
Hi Marek
For the BSOD, I’d go with something between 7/10 and 9/10 flex. For the Custom X, I’d be looking at 8/10 to 10/10 flex. So something from the following:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
Hi Nate, I wanted to give you a little update.
I replaced the Union Falcors with Union Atlas on my 2021 Capita BSOD and oh boy what a diffrence it made, its so quick edge to edge now, its like a diffrent board.
I guess I m a old style rider and prefer the full size disk and stiff base plate of the Atlas.
The Falcors are in my opinion great bindings, very light and confortable.I will mount them on a softer, narrower board.
Thanks for your advice and keep up the good work.
Hi Marek
Thanks for your update and your insights, much appreciated.
Hello,
I am really conflicted with choosing a new board right now. If you find time I would appreciate input. I am an intermediate rider (or at least I think) but enjoy rather technical riding (I watched a lot of YT guides when I was starting out, and I think it moved me into that direction), I am not fan of breaking speed limits, I just want enough speed to let me ride properly (some nice curves, smooth turns, etc.). I am 170 cm, and around 65 kg. Currently I am riding very soft camrock (mostly rocker) Nidecker Play 152. It is my first board, but I feel like I outgrew it, it is very unstable. This year I had a chance to ride Burton Custom X 155 (testing unit) for an hour and I absolutely loved the experience, it actually felt easier to ride (which is weird). I am considering buying it (probably size 154), but I am a little bit concerned. I do not consider myself an expert and I am afraid that even though I loved the experience of this board it was only an hour and conditions were rather good. I am afraid that it may be too much for longer rides or in bad conditions. Am I being too cautious and I should just go for it, or consider something else? It is quite expensive and honestly I would like the board I buy now to be the board I can grow old with xD
Thanks in advance. Awesome website and great work 😀
Hi Damian
Thanks for your message.
Based on what you’re describing, especially given that you don’t necessarily like to ride fast, I think the Custom X would become a bit too much over a whole day and in rougher conditions. It’s the kind of board, I found, that’s super fun to carve and bomb at speed, but when things get tighter and you want to be riding a little slower more casual, it can be hard work. But given that you liked the feel of it, it does offer some clues to what you like. I think that you’ll like a predominantly camber board or full camber board – but probably something not quite as stiff would be more suitable, IMO.
The most obvious choice would be to go with the Burton Custom. It’s of course a similar board in a lot of ways, but it’s softer flexing. Still not super soft or anything – I felt it at a 6.5/10 – but not as stiff as the Custom X.
Certainly other options, but that’s what I’d be leaning towards given your experience on the Custom X.
Size-wise, I think the 154 would work well for your specs and how you describe your riding.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you Nate for answering, rally appreciate it 😀
I was kind of afraid this is going to be your answer 😅 I really like Custom X graphics, but regular Custom not so much 🙁 Not the most important thing in the world but I do like them pretty xD
I think you are right though, for technical riding, carves, ridding reasonably fast, but not crazy bombing regular Custom seems like a better option. I would also like to get more into tricks – mostly jumps, some spins, not so much rails, at least for the time being. I do not care about powder. I rarely have the opportunity to even see powder, it is usually mix of some snow of varying quality and icy spots.
The other boards I scouted on your websites were:
* Jones Mountain Twin Review – This one is really pretty 😅 and gets many good reviews including your own. But I am afraid it is a little too playful, I would really like to experience stability even with bad conditions.
* GNU RC C3 Review – From your description I get the feeling it should be good too. And from reviews it feels to be more technical and stable (better for carving) than Jones. I have found last unit I can order size 154,5
I am under the impression that this classic camber of Burton Custom would be actually ideal. But what do you think? I do not want to limit myself to Burton and I want a desk that will serve me well for a long time.
In case I do not find a good deal on regular Custom, would going Custom X be very bad for me? What areas of ridding would suffer if I go with Custom X as oppose to Custom, and vice versa? Also what do you think about 150 as a size? I am asking in case I cannot get size 154.
Thanks again, and happy new year 😀
Hi Damian
The MT would is a little more playful than the Custom and the RC C3, but it’s still not ultra playful or anything, but might be that you’d prefer the Custom or RC C3, based on your experience with the Custom X. 154.5 would work for you for the RC C3. It’s on the longer side for your specs, but it’s certainly doable.
The Custom X is going to be harder to do tricks with, including jumps, ollies, spins etc than the Custom, IMO, and it’s going to be harder to ride at slower speeds. Also, it’s going to be more physically taxing. i.e. by the end of the day, you’ll likely be more tired, at least until you become more conditioned to riding a board that burly. The Custom isn’t as stable at high speed as the Custom X and isn’t as good for big arcing carves, IMO.
150 in the Custom is going to make it noticeably more playful than the 154. It would be a good size for you if you were going to use it more for tricks/freestyle. Would still be pretty stable at your weight, but it’s going to be less stable at speed than the 154.
Great website. So happy I found it. I’m thinking I’m due for an upgrade, currently riding a 2001 Burton Canyon 157 (essentially a wide custom). I’ve only ridden 2 boards in my 30 yrs of riding so don’t have much to judge on (& have only ridden cambers). Mostly midwest riding, hard carving on more icy crud than I’d like but prefer fast groomers. Advanced rider, 170#, 6′, size 12 boots so looking for a wide. I really have no complaints with the Canyon & upgraded to Cartel bindings and new boots last year (was riding 30 year old Kemper boots LOL). Anyway, I’m torn between a 158W Custom or 158W Custom X (both in camber), but have also considered a few others such as a Rossi One LF 161W (as it’s about half the price of Custom X). The price has me second guessing a Custom X. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi CJ
Thanks for your message.
I think you’re in right place size-wise with 158W. Between the Custom X and Custom, I think it depends on how stiff you want it. How hard you want to charge and whether you want something with at least some forgiveness. The Custom X is hard charging. If you want to get the most out of doing big high speed carves and just bombing down the mountain, then the Custom X is the way to go. If you want something that’s going to serve you well riding fast and slow and be a little more versatile in that sense, then Custom.
If you’re looking for improvement in powder, but at the sacrifice of carving (versus either Custom or Custom X but more pronounced versus Custom), then the Rossi One is worth considering. Also note that it’s going to be the bigger adjustment of the 3, as you’ll be going to a profile with a reasonable amount of rocker in it – and given you’ve ridden camber for 30 years, it would be something you’d have to get used to.
Also to consider is that the Cartel bindings are, IMO, a little too soft for the Custom X. I would personally go with stiffer bindings, if I went Custom X. The Cartel match the Custom and the Rossi One well, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hello 🙂 ,
1)What would you suggest Custom X or GNU Essential Service?
2)What binding stiffness would you suggest for any of the above?
Thank you.
Hi Stefanos
Thanks for your messages (got the other ones as well – but deleted them as they were asking the same thing).
In terms of which one I would suggest, it really depends on a lot of things. First thing is if your talking 2021 Essential Service or 2022 Essential Service (they’re quite different boards, even though they have the same name – a little confusing, but there’s a whole history there with that board!).
Then it really comes down to how you like to ride. If you can let me know.
a. how you ride – do you like to bomb?, carve?, ride trees?, any powder?, do you ride aggressively or do you like to ride more casual or both depending on your mood? Anything you can tell me about your riding style would really help
b. your specs – if you could let me know your weight, height and boot size and roughly how strong/athletic you would consider yoursel
c. you ability level – can you let me know roughly you ability level – intermediate, advanced, expert?
In terms of binding stiffness, I would say at least 8/10 in terms of flex for the Custom X and up to 10/10. For the Essential Service (assuming your looking at the 2022 model), I would say more like 7/10 binding flex – 6/10 at the softest and up to 8/10.
Hope this helps
Thank you for the fast response :)!!
Info to help you help me:
I like to bomb and carve. Powder rarely.
Ride style : aggressive.
Ability level advanced to expert.
I am 1.95cm (6.3 feet),100 kilo(220pounds),30,5Mongo.
Strong/athletic in a very good condition in both.
I mean Essential Service 2021.
(for both boards the wide option).
Hope that helps.
Hi Stafanos
Thanks for the extra info. Definitely helps.
2022 Essential Service vs Custom X, then 100% Custom X for what you’re describing. Since you’re looking at the 2021 Essential Service it comes a little closer, but given that you don’t ride that much powder, you love to bomb and carve and your strong/athletic, I would still be leaning Custom X. 2021 ES certainly better for what you’re describing than 2022 Essential Service and would do the job for sure, but my instinct says Custom X for you.
Size-wise, if you ended up going 2021 Essential Service I would say 164W for sure.
For the Custom X, it’s between the 162W and 166W. If you have a preference for size, I’d go closest to that preference. The Custom X does have a good amount of effective edge versus overall length, so I think the 162W could certainly work. For some boards it’s probably getting a little on the short side for you, but for that board, it would work. But if you’re preference is more around 165, then I’d be leaning 166W, given how you like to ride. Another consideration is the size of mountain your ride. If it’s quite small, then erring on the smaller side makes sense. If it’s a big mountain and plenty of space to open out and bomb, that favors going a little longer.
Firstly, the reviews are great! Thanks for doing them.
Here’s my question:
I’m trying to decide between the Billy goat and the Custom X. I already have a Flight attendant( Which I like, but it really gets washy at high speeds on hard snow). So I’m looking for an aggressive all mountain board that has really good edge hold that is competent in pow, but mostly for groomer day carving. I really love Mervin products and have ridden many over the years, but I feel as though the newer ones tend to break in way too much and too quickly. What are your thoughts? Thanks!
Hi Jon
Thanks for your message.
I would go Billy Goat for you, mostly because it’s better in hard snow than the Custom X, IMO.
In terms of breaking in: I don’t own any Mervin boards currently, but they do tend to break in quite quickly like you say. I don’t mind that personally, but some find they break in too quickly/too much. But I’m not sure if their more recent gear is still the same in that respect. I typically don’t test gear for long enough to really gain a good insight there, unless it’s gear I own.
Hope this helps
Spot on review of this board. Basically to ride this board you have to push hard. It shines under loads, responds instantly and gives you all the confidence in the world to ride damn fast. In my opinion – it’s very capable on powder but pay attention to that front-end since it dives fast. Carving obviously works well. On uneven terrain, moguls etc. it’s a pain – avoid.
To summarize – a deck for strong, experienced riders looking for a stable high speed ride. Not the best all rounder. Also – you must be in your zone to have a good a time with it.
Hi Oscar
Some great points and well said. Thanks for your input and insight – much appreciated
hello Nate, I bought my first custom x this year. Looking for a burton binding EST to put on it. Seems like the binding burton made for it is the GENESIS X . But it overkill my budget. I was not considerate the burton CARTEL because you suggest with the CARTEL a board max 7/10 stiff. Can the CARTEL do a good job or just doesnt fit with the custom x. I just wanna make sure to have a binding who can extract the best out of the custom x . I’m 6`6“ . 240 lbs. boots :13
Thanks for your help and for your passion in snowboarding. You helped me a lot
Hi Jean-Philippe
Thanks for your message.
I think the Cartel would certainly do the job on the Custom X. It’s a versatile binding. But ideally I would put something stiffer on the Custom X, to get the most out of it. The Genesis X would be the best option, in terms of an EST binding, IMO, apart from the X Base (but that’s even more expensive than the Gen X!). There are cheaper options that you could get that better suit the flex of the Custom X, in different brands (and ones that will be compatible with the Channel System) but that wouldn’t specifically be EST bindings. So, given you want EST, the Genesis X would be your best bet (you could try to find a 2019 model to get it a bit cheaper).
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the reply. My budget got me to choose the Cartel EST since they are the stiffers EST binding in my range of price. Also considarate that i’m a casual rider. The slide adjustement toe to heel with the EST bindings is just amazing. For the very first time , I can ride a board and not having my toes touch the snow in a agressive turn on the groom.
Have a great season
Hi Jean-Philippe
Thanks for the update. Hope you have a great season too!
HI Nate, In your opinion, what are the effects of having a middle softer side binding ( like CARTEL ) on a stiffer side board ( like CUSTOM X). With that set up , I feel I can play a little bit around but I feel also I lost some power into carving. I’m concern of the effects it will have on ”the playing around thing ” having a stiff binding ( like UNION ULTRA ) on a stiff board (like Custom X ) .
I’m targeting actually the UNION ULTRA to put on the custom x. Do you think that is a good match.I ask directly UNION BINDING if the ULTRA’ s highback is design to be rotate. Their answer was no. Do you think that the lack of rotation on the highback is a big deal considaring i like carving. My guess is , if a cie. like UNION doesn’t allow highback rotation on most popular and performance models , may be it’s because it is something useless. what is your opinion.
thanks , have a good day
Hi Jean-Philippe
I find with softer bindings on a stiffer board that the binding struggles to “drive” the board with enough power if that makes sense. Basically like you’re describing that you can carve as hard or deep – and I find that it slows up the edge to edge speed on a stiffer board too. I usually find that going stiffer in your bindings (or anywhere in your gear) will mean less in terms of maneuverability at slower speeds.
I think that the Ultra would be a great match for the Custom X, for sure. You would likely loose some of that playability (I swear that’s a word!) too though, IMO. Something like the Union Falcor could be a nice middle ground in terms of having more power to drive the Custom X, but retaining some playability. Or something like the Flux XF – see the following for more that would fit in that in between category.
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
In terms of rotating the high backs. Some people swear by it. Others say they don’t bother. If I have a binding that I can rotate the highback on, I typically do, but I honestly don’t notice a lot of difference personally. I don’t take it into consideration when buying bindings. I own bindings that I can and bindings that I can’t, but I never took that into consideration when buying (and I’m very particular when I buy, or recommend snowboard gear!).
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Im debating the 2020 custom x or the super doa.. I’m into big air jumps, but mostly in the park no jibbing.
I do all-mountain, what is better suited for me? And what do you think of the super doa compared to the traditional?
Hi Shaun
Thanks for your message.
The DOA vs Super DOA, first of all, the main differences are:
1. The Super DOA is a little stiffer feeling than the DOA. Capita rate DOA 5.5 and SuperDOA 6. But I would say more like DOA 6/10 and SuperDOA 7/10. Their ratings are for the wood core of the board – before adding the fibreglass, etc. Some boards feel less than their stated flex, some more. For the DOA and SuperDOA I’ve found them a little stiffer than their ratings personally.
2. The Super DOA is a little lighter. The 156 I rode weighed in at 2680 grams – and the DOA (2019) that I rode was 2720 grams. So not a huge difference but a little lighter (of course wood cores vary, so that can explain some difference). But it did feel a little lighter for spinning and getting pop overall.
3. The Super DOA had a little more on a carve than the DOA – and a little more stable at speed – but still nothing like the Custom X, when it comes to aggressive carving.
4. I’d say the Super DOA is a little more aggressive overall vs the DOA – but again nothing like the Custom X in that sense.
Vs the Custom X:
1. The Super DOA would be better all round for jumps/spins, IMO. But in terms of big air – especially just straight air, then that difference would be much less – both would be pretty close in that sense. I’d say the pop from the Custom X is still harder to access (you’ve got to put more in to get it out) but probably has a little more pop once you do actually load it up – and obviously no issues with stable approaches and solid landings. Though the Super DOA is good there too, of course. For any kind of smaller jumps, then the Super DOA is preferable.
2. The Custom X has it over the Super DOA in terms of speed and carving for sure. And even though it’s not amazing for powder itself, still a little better than the Super DOA when it comes to powder.
If you mostly ride the mountain and are just doing big straight air (certainly not something you can’t spin – but it’s a beefier board to get around – and it’s not twin, so landing/taking off switch not as good), and want something super aggressive and a real carving/speed machine, then I would go Custom X.
If you want something with just a little more forgiveness and something that’s good no big air, but also smaller jumps/spins, then the Super DOA is probably more your thing.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
I’m trying to decide between this board and the slash ATV. I mostly do aggressive charging plus some deeper carving, but also do enjoy jumps – both natural and smaller jumps in the park. It feels like every review I’ve read mentions the custom x as the board that gives you the most pop out of your turns and #1 board for aggressive charging, and I’ve read a couple that mention the ATV as slightly plankish/slightly dead out of turns. I’ve read your detailed reviews of each, but would you be able to do a direct comparison on the carving, quickness of turn initiation, speed, jumps and overall turning experience between the two? I’m trying to better understand the gap in overall turning experience and speed vs the gap in jumps. Thanks in advance for any response.
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
I certainly didn’t find the ATV dead out of turn at all but the Custom X does have a bit more there. Head to head for carving, the Custom X does win. And it’s quick edge-to-edge when really bombing, which is great. The ATV is also really quick edge-to-edge at speed, and probably no quicker than the Custom X, but when you slow down a bit the ATV is better and quicker edge-to-edge than the Custom X, IMO. The Custom X doesn’t like going slow at all, whereas the ATV can ride slower better. That’s part of the reason, I really preferred it for jumps. You get a bit more in terms of maneuverability for the approach.
But also for jumps, it’s still got great pop, is stable on fast approaches and a really solid landing platform. The Custom X felt more sketchy trying to lineup tricky side-hits or making adjustments on the approach to a jump. The other important difference I found for jumps between the 2, is that the Custom X, whilst it has plenty of pop there, it takes more muscle/effort to extract that pop, IMO. The ATV was easier to pop with less effort. If you’re really athletic you might not notice this as much, but this is something that’s really noticeable for me.
Overall for carving/turns I think I probably just preferred the ATV, only because I liked it better at slower speeds, but the Custom X, carving when you’re really bombing, it wins out there, IMO. And just straight line speed – the ATV is really good, but the Custom X is another level again.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the detailed comparison. I think I’m definitely leaning towards the ATV after your comments. One last thing, and I didn’t see a review on the site so maybe you haven’t ridden it, but do you know how you’d compare the burton custom (camber) with the ATV? In terms of pop, edge hold and turning experience? Seems like both are supposed to be solid carvers with good pop. The main difference I’ve seen from others is that the custom has more flex to it.
Thanks in advance, your website and personal responses are extremely helpful.
Hi Dan
I haven’t ridden the Custom Camber for a couple of seasons, but I would say that’s a relatively close description. Though it might be closer to say that the Custom is like a softer flexing Custom X. Slash boards have a different flavor to Burton boards, so I’d say that would be a closer comparison. Which makes the Custom a little less hard carvy than the Custom X and a little less stable at speed. But, IMO, better for jumps and a bit better for uneven terrain. Which I guess is some of the ways that the ATV is different to the Custom X as well – except the ATV still has that carvability and speed over the Custom (non-x), IMO. So, in some ways the ATV is almost in between the Custom X and Custom. But with a different feel to it. Hope that makes sense!
Thank you so much for all your detailed replies. I’m 185 lbs, 6 ft 2 in, and have a size 12 boot (adidas tactical adv). I just ordered the Slash ATV 163W (ww of 263). I seemed to fit perfectly according to your waist width charts (for foot/boot size), your height/weight charts and the slash atv website proposed weight range.
Looking forward to using it. Based on how well all 3 of those charts say I fit, I’d assume you would have proposed the same size ATV as well??
Thanks,
Dan
You’re very welcome Dan.
Yeah, assuming you’re an advanced ride, which it sounds like you are, I think the 163W is a good size for your specs. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow. Happy riding!
What bindings do you recommend for this board for the ultimate carving / fast speed experience?
Hi Martin
Thanks for your message.
If carving and speed are your biggest concern, I would look at the following options:
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
Hope this helps
Own this exact same board and this review is absolutely 100% bang on. The one thing I also find with the CX is the faster you go on this board the easier everything feels. This is where it wants to be. The CX just loves high speed for laying down some super sic’ heavy lines.
Hi Craig
Thanks for your input. Yeah definitely a board that wants to bomb at high speed!