Hello and welcome to my Burton Process Flying V review.
In this review I will take a look at the Process Flying V as an all-mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Process Flying V a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other all-mountain snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Burton Process Flying V
Price: $499 (USD recommended retail)
Style: All-Mountain
Flex: Medium-Soft (4.5/10)
Rating Score: 82.1/100
Compared to other Men’s All-Mountain Boards
Out of the 36 men’s all-mountain snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Process Flying V’s Specs
Check out the Process Flying V’s specs and available sizes in the charts below.
Specs
Style: | All-Mountain |
Price: | $499 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Medium-Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | Hybrid Rocker Burton's "Flying V" |
Shape: | Directional Twin - but basically true twin in terms of flex and shape but with a setback stance |
Setback Stance: | 12.5mm (1/2") |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | Normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
152 | 249 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
155 | 251 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
157 | 252 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
159 | 255 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
162 | 257 | 180-260 | 82-118 |
157W | 257 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
159W | 260 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
162W | 262 | 180-260 | 82-118 |
Who is the Process Flying V Most Suited to?
The Process Flying V is on the softer side for an all-mountain board. So it’s great for anyone who prefers something more playful than aggressive.
As far as the definition of “all-mountain” goes – this board really is a great all-rounder and has no major weaknesses, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants only one board but needs it to be able to do a bit of everything.
It’s great in the park, it’s great on the trails and it’s got some good float in powder.
This board is suitable for a beginner (not ideal but definitely suitable) and can be enjoyed by more advanced rider’s too (assuming you’re looking for a playful ride).
The Process Flying V in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Process Flying V is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Burton Process Flying V 2017, 157cm (252mm waist width)
Date: April 9, 2016
Conditions: Icy at first, but softened up in the afternoon. Not a cloud in the sky! It was the ideal day – in terms of the weather – except that I forgot my sunscreen!
Bindings angles: +18/-6
Burton Process Flying V 2017 form lift
Powder
Not a lot of powder on the day but when I found the occasional pocket the float on this board was really quite good. Better than I had expected to be fair.
But thinking about it now, I’m less surprised. It does have a 0.5” (12.5mm) setback and there’s plenty of rocker in the profile.
Carving and Turning
Not really a carver. Too soft and too loose to really lay into deep carves.
In terms of turning, this board is really effortless to turn on and was quick from edge-to-edge. Really easy to skid turns on too.
The edge hold isn’t amazing – it was a board that was a lot more fun to ride in the softer stuff than in the icy stuff – but I wouldn’t expect it from a softer board with a fair bit of rocker in the profile. That said, I think the edge-hold is better on this deck than it used to be now that it has the frost-bit edges.
Speed
There are better boards for breakneck speed, but this board can handle a bit of speed for sure. That’s the thing with an All-Mountain deck, you’ve got to compromise on some things if you want just one board for everything.
But stability at speed isn’t too bad and it runs nicely when you hit a flat-section or slight up-hill. It’s got a sintered base, so that helps (just keep it waxed!)
Uneven Terrain
There was a fair bit of bumpy stuff lower down the mountain the day I rode this board – and I was thankful that I was riding this board. It handled the bumpy stuff really well.
I couldn’t say for sure why, but the softer flex would definitely have played a part and also the hybrid rocker profile probably helped too.
Jumps
Really fun on jumps in the park. It spins easy and has a good bit of pop. Really shines on small to medium jumps (IMHO). Can handle bigger jumps but more fun on the smaller variety.
Really decent pop and that’s partly thanks to that camber in the profile – so you can definitely get some good ollying going on this board or great pop over rollers, side-hits or jumps.
Switch
It has a direction twin shape (but the only thing that makes it not a true twin is the 12.5mm setback. If you set up centered it would be a true twin) and that makes it feel pretty much the same going both ways. Also, because it’s an easy to ride and playful board, it’s easier to ride switch than a more aggressive board if you haven’t mastered riding switch as well as your natural direction (myself included!).
It is setback 12.5mm (0.5”) though and that does make a difference – though not a massive difference.
You could set this up centered and it would be even better at riding switch.
Jibbing
One of the great things about this deck is that it jibs well. A lot of all mountain decks have jibbing as their biggest weakness. Not so with the Process Flying V.
So if you’re after an all-mountain deck that jibs better than your average all mountain snowboard, then this should be at or near the top of your list.
Pipe
Didn’t have access to a pipe that day, but I would say if this board had a weak area, it would be in the pipe. It’s slightly too soft, the edge-hold is not quite up there, and it just didn’t feel like a board that would climb the pipe walls with great conviction.
Of course, if you’re an experienced pipe rider, you could take it in there for sure and have some fun – but I wouldn’t consider it a good pipe board overall.
Changes from 2020 Model
Nothing has changed between the 2020 and 2021 models, as far as I can tell, except the graphic.
Changes from 2019 Model
Nothing has changed from the 2019 to 2020 models, as far as I can tell, besides the graphic.
Changes from 2018 Model
Apart from the graphic, no major differences between the 2018 and 2019 models that I can see.
Changes from 2017 Model
The 2018 model is essentially the same as the 2017 model except for the change in graphic.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.0 | 9/15 |
CARVING/TURNS | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 9/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
PIPE | 2.0 | 2/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 82.1/100 |
Overall this is one of the better soft, playful all-mountain decks that I’ve ridden. You can do a bit of everything and go anywhere. It’s a great deck if you want that one board quiver and want something that’s not too aggressive.
The ideal person for this board would be someone looking for one board for everything, that likes a board on the playful side, wants an all-mountain deck that can jib well – and one that can help them to progress their skill level.
There are certainly better options if you’re looking for something more leaning towards the carving, speed, edge-hold in hard conditions type of ride but for something on the playful, freestyle end of all-mountain, this is a great choice
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want more info, are ready to buy or just looking to research prices and availability, check out the links below.
If you’re keen to check out other all-mountain snowboards or want to see how the Process Flying V compares to other all-mountain boards, check out the next link.
Hi!
First of all, your website is a really incredible source of information for people who don’t know where to head to when choosing the first board ( at least for it is for me).
Now, after some research, I have some doubts about my options and maybe you could help me out. I consider myself an intermediate rider. Can ride pretty much everything, but I enjoy rather cruising the slopes and trying some ollie/pop, 180.. on the sides, than going fast and steep. 10% powder. I would like to improve 180/360 on small to middle jumps, nothing big. I’m 175cm and 68Kg. My budget is everything up to 400CHF as very limit, but I wanted something that I can progress with and I don’t need to change in only a few years. It would be my first board btw… that is why there’s so much hesitation. I hope you can throw some light on my final decision.
– Burton Process Flying by Mark McMorris 2020 ( size 157)
– Lit Tech Banana BTX 2020 ( size 156).
– Arbor Formula/Relaxe
– Last I saw that Burton Kilroy Directional Twin is on deal 330CHF, and feedbacks are quite good.
About the bindings I guess I will try to find something according to the board.
I forgot to say that my boot size is 7.5
Hi Llori
Thanks for your message.
First of all, for your specs and the way you describe your riding, I wouldn’t go any longer than 155. And for your style, I would be looking more at 152-154. I think the Process Flying V could definitely work for what you’re describing, but I would be leaning 152, or at most 155 for that board for you, given that you sound like you’ve got a more cruisey, freestyle approach to the mountain, more than a bomb it down approach. The only real downside for the Process Flying V is that it isn’t that great in icy conditions. If that’s not a big issue for you, I think it would be a really good choice for what you’re describing.
The Skate Banana would work too, but again, I would be looking at 152 or 154 for you. The Process Flying V marginally better in powder, but given that you’re riding only 10% powder, I think this would do the job fine. Skate Banana a better option if you see icy conditions a lot.
Arbor Formula would work, but I would probably go Formula Camber for what you’re describing. Biggest downside would be that the camber version not great in powder. I would go 153 for the Formula Camber.
Arbor Relapse – same deal – I would go 153.
Burton Kilroy Directional probably not that suitable as it’s too directional for what you’re describing, IMO. If you came across the Kilroy Twin, that would be worth looking at. The Kilroy Twin will be great for everything you describe, IMO, except that it lacks in powder. Ideally I think 152, but 155 would also work for you.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate from Switzerland;
I consider myself as an “back againg on snowboard”-Rider, since I stood on a snowboard for a couple of years in my youth. Now, after 15 years of not snowboarding but in the last couple of weeks riding a few rental boards, I bought a Burton Proceed Flying V 157W. What I need now are bindings, that fit well to my new board. I mean, I’m a “ok”-rider, going down everything, if there’s powder, I’ll enjoy it, but most of the time, it will be just standard slopes. So said, I wouldn’t wanna spend a fortune on bindings, but still get most out of them, as since I’m willing to become a better snowboarder. So thank you very much in advance for any suggestions and however, thank you so much for your site, which has helped me (and, meanwhile, my girlfriend as well) very much!
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
As a good match to the Process Flying V, good for your level of riding and at a good price, I would look at:
– Union Contact Pro
– Burton Mission
– Flux DS or DSL
Hope this helps
Hey, I just bought this in the FV and camber versions and am going to decide on keeping one and returning the other. I like to cruise down the mountain and pick up speed into turns mainly. I’m still not at the point where i’m going down blues or blacks completely flat but I can S my way through greens and some blues. I don’t do any jumps but I’d be open to learning how.
Thats why I decided that the flying V would be a good choice since it offers me both the ability to carve and maybe progress to jumps since I’m not carving like a pro anyways I didn’t think it was necessary for me to look for something that focuses on doing so. Also, I only ride at resorts so I’m never in icy conditions to worry about that too much. However, I was told that the FV can build bad habits since it is so forgiving and therefore I’m not sure I want to go down that route but if the ride on the FV is enjoyable then I’ve got no worries going with it. Do you have any suggestions for someone who’s gone boarding about 20 times in the last three years and learned mainly on Burton LTR boards.
Hi Ray
Thanks for your message.
Going from LTR boards, I think the Flying V will be an easier and more enjoyable transition. And I think from what you’re describing, it will be more suited to your level. The Process Camber isn’t full camber (it’s Burton’s “PurePop” camber, which is a little more forgiving) but even so, it’s not as easy going as the Flying V version.
I think there’s that argument that riding something too forgiving can lead to poor technique because you get away with your errors too much. And there’s maybe something to that, although I think if you’re learning good technique, like taking lessons, and focusing on riding with good technique I don’t think that’s too much of an issue. And on the flip side if you ride something too advanced, often you can’t ride with technique, because your brain just comes up with whatever it can to get you down the mountain surviving – which can lead to a crude technique. So there are arguments on both sides. Then there’s the crazy idea that snowboarding should be fun 🙂 – going with a board that’s beyond your ability just isn’t fun either. Not saying that the Process Camber is necessarily way past your ability, but the Process Flying V would certainty be an easier transition. I’d be mostly worried if you were in icy conditions a lot, with the Flying V.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hello Nate,
I decided to buy my own board. I ride board like 7-8 times and i can feel that i know what i want. I am a little bit scary when riding because of my knee imjury, so i am not that much good but improving slowly.
I want an all mountain board, i love powder. I dont want jump and etc. May be some butterring and switch riding in the future. I considered buy process fly v, salomon assassin and lib tech trs hp. I live in Turkey, so we dont hace that much brand here. Which one do you reccommend for me?
Hi Semi
Thanks for your message.
Based what you’re describing, I think the Process Flying V would work well. Just a touch better than the other 2 in powder and the easiest going board of the 3. And since it sounds like you’re still finding your confidence to an extent, I think you’ll appreciate the easing going nature of it. I think the other 2 would definitely work for what you’re describing, but the Process Flying V sounds like the best match, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great review!
Can you please expand on your comment about this board being suitable for beginners but not ideal?
Does that have to do with the learning curve? Flex rating? Anything else?
I’m a beginner rider and I’m considering buying the Flying-V as it seems like an overall board that gives a lil bit of everything.
Thanks for your advice in advance!
Cheers,
Rohan
Hi Rohan
Thanks for your message.
I would say that it’s not ideal mostly because it’s a little on the looser side, which can make getting off the lift a little trickier, which some beginners struggle with. If a looser feeling board doesn’t sound like a bad thing to you though, then that’s not an issue. It’s probably just that hair stiffer than ideal for a beginner too, but based on your other comment, that mentioned that you have 8-10 days under your belt, I wouldn’t be too worried about that.
Hi Nate and thanks for sharing helpful content
I have a quiestion and it´s on setting the stance centre on boards like this. is that possible without felling anything strange? Although the flex and nose and tail are twin the stance is setback 12.5 mm so the sidecut has to be setback within the board, Am I right? ThanK you very much
Hi Ignacio
Thanks for your message. Apologies for the slow response – a bit behind after vacation.
As far as I know the Process Flying V is a true twin, apart from being setback – so assuming it’s a genuine true twin, then the sidecut won’t be setback. And with the channel system, it’s easy to center it (with traditional mounting patterns, you usually can’t center a 12.5mm setback). So yeah, you should be good to center the Process Flying V.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
First off, what a brilliant website you have – love the content and the detailed guidance on all things snowboarding. Also love the advice you give in the comments section.
Speaking of advice in comments sections…….would you be able to suggest a suitable size for me? It’s my second season and moving off the rentals – I’m at the upper beginner-lower intermediate phase so think this board would be ideal for the type of riding I want to do. Was recommended this board by a few shops recently – one of them really knows his stuff (30 years in the business). I’m around 176cm high, 95kg (more or less) with burton ruler step-ons US size 11. The burton website recommends a 162 or 162w, but the shop recommended a 157w or 159w – think this is following the advice on your pages re deducting 3-6cm’s for beginners. Thinking the 159w or 157w is probably the way to go.
Appreciate any advice and love the site.
Thanks,
Pete
Hi Pete
Thanks for your message.
The Process Flying V is a great option, IMO, for your level (even made my >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards).
Size-wise, I agree that the 157W or 159W would be your best bets. I would say around 161 as a more advanced rider, but as a beginner going on intermediate I would say that 157 to 159 range is your best bet (which puts both of those in there). And the width on those two boards looks just right for 11s too. So both would definitely work. I don’t always agree with what shops recommend (sometimes I hear some shockers!) but in this case I definitely agree.
Between the 157W and 159W I don’t think you could make a bad choice, but here are some differences. These would all be quite subtle:
– 157W a little more nimble at slower speeds, better in trees, better for more freestyle oriented things (jumps, jibs, spins, butters etc). Will also be mildly more beginner friendly.
– 159W will float a little better in powder, be a little more stable at speed and be better for long arcing carves. A very mildly steeper learning curve
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the advice – really appreciate this. Sounds like both are good options so that’s great as it’s taken me a quite a while to narrow the various options down – so many boards to decide between! I’m leaning more towards the 157W – not because I want to rip the park (maybe if i’d started this 10 years ago rather than in my mid-forties!) but because of the slightly more beginner friendly feel. Will definitely be buying one of these though so I’m finally all set up for our season!
Thanks again for the advice on this – really appreciate this.
Cheers,
Pete
You’re very welcome Pete. Hope you have an awesome season!
hi Nate..i am between the capita doa and burton process fv..there is a discount for 2019 series..however i cannot decide btwn these 2 boards..i have been boarding for 3 years i know carving turning etc..now i want to learn new tricks..however dont want to spend all time in park still want to continue to boarding on all mountain..could you please help about choosing ?
thanks
btw very good website i have read all your advices word by word
Hi Burcay
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say either are strictly park board – both can ride the rest of the mountain, but they are very different boards.
The DOA is more aggressive – is more camber dominant and stiffer flex. It has more of a locked-in feel (though I would say semi-locked in rather than fully locked in) vs the looser feel of the Process Flying V.
The Flying V would be easier for learning tricks on, IMO. The DOA better in the park for a more seasoned park rider. But for learning tricks on the Flying V easier.
The DOA a better carver and better for riding fast.
The Process Flying V better in powder and uneven terrain.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
thank you very much for your answer..i will go with process fv i think to learn some more tricks..than when i get seasoned maybe i can turn into doa 🙂
You’re very welcome Burcay. Hope you enjoy your new deck!
Hi Nate,
Great review.
I have the Process Flying V and I am considering getting another board, because I don’t feel the Process FV has enough stability and edge-hold. I want a board that is great or at least good for the longer trips, icy conditions, groomed slopes, steep slopes and uneven terrain. It doesn’t need to be a great park board, but of course are able to manage smaller jumps. I have been looking at the Custom Flying V and Flight Attendant, but what are your thoughts?
/Lucas
Hi Lucas
Thanks for your message.
If you’re looking to go with another Burton, then something like the Custom Flying V will give you a little more of what you’re looking for but not a huge amount more in terms of edge-hold and stability. It’s stiffer than the Process Flying V, but not that different. Not something that I would team up in a quiver.
The Flight Attendant would be a better compliment (more different) to the Process Flying V – more freeride focused, stiffer, and better edge-hold and stability, IMO. Not the best for smaller jumps, but certainly doable. Is something that I would only recommend if you’re quite an advanced rider though. If you are more intermediate, then might not be the best option.
If you are more intermediate, and for something a little better for smaller jumps, then I think the Trick Pilot might be the best bet, in the Burton lineup. It would give you a bit more stiffness in flex, bit more camber and a bit more edge-hold/stability vs the Process Flying V, but be a little easier to manage than the Flight Attendant – and be better for smaller jumps too, IMO. It’s still a twin so that would be the same as the Process Flying V, but otherwise it’s quite different.
So, I would be weighing up between Trick Pilot and FA, depending on your level or riding and how easy you want smaller jumps to feel.
Of course, there are also other options outside of Burton too.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your review.
I currently ride a 2017 custom Flying V.
And i m thinking to get another that’s is more playful all mountain and most importantly better for icy conditions. Do you reckon a process pure pop camber is better for me? Or any other suggestions?
Hi RC
Thanks for your message.
I think the Process PurePop would be an improvement in icy conditions, compared to the Custom Flying V – that camber profile is a little better in those conditions, IMO. But there are better options for icy conditions, IMO, if you were willing to go outside of Burton. If you want to stay with a Burton boards, then that would be a good option, but if you were happy to look at other brands, I think the following would be great playful, all-mountain options, that are really good in hard/icy conditions:
~ YES Typo
~ Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
~ GNU Money
Hope this helps
Hi nate
Awesome review. Congrats!.
I am thinking on buying a progress cambas 162.
I am 1.85 cm tall, 12 size feet, and 98 kgs.
I tested it for a couple of days and it felt good, allowing rally fast turns. Although I could not really use it much for carving because of the snow conditions.
The truth is that i never go to the park, and don’t do freestyle, but I still believe the progress 162 cambas can be a good option.
Could you please let me know if I am guessing right?
In case it is, which boots would your recommend?. Burton photon boa I guess?
Thanks a lot.
Joan
Hi Joan
Thanks for your message.
I’m guessing you mean Process Camber? Rather than Progress Cambas?
I think the 162 would be a good length for you. With size 12 boots, I would go for the 162W.
If you are at at least an intermediate level, and if you liked the feel of it, then I think it would be a good option.
Boots-wise, I wouldn’t go as stiff as the Photon Boa for the Process. If you’re looking at Burton boots, then the Swath, Swath Boa, Ruler, Ruler Boa or Imperial would be your best options, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate,
Completely enjoyed your reviews. I am buying my first snowboard and still in the beginner phase. Been on the mountains only for 3 seasons now in Europe. Would you recommend this the Flying V as a first board, even though it ticks of most of the specs for beginners. I am able to turn, but i need to gain more confidence there. I’m 6’1 and weight 84 kgs approx. My foot size varies left and right between 11.5 and 12. I think based on all the reading the recommended board size would be 162W. Thanks in advance for any additional guidance.
Andrew
Hi Andrew
Thanks for your message.
I think this board would definitely work for you. I wouldn’t say it’s a beginner beginners board, but it’s a great option for those that have some time on snow under their belt, but are still in that beginner phase. A good high-end beginner and up board and one that will stick with you for a good while in terms of progression.
Size-wise, though, I would be leaning towards the 159W for you. You certainly need to go wide, but I feel like the 162W might feel just a bit big for you. I think the 162W would be a good size for you for this board if you were at an advanced level, but for now, I think the 159W would be a better size.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks Nate. Really appreciate it.
You’re very welcome Andrew. Hope you have an awesome season!
hi nate !
i bought the process flying v and now i have to chose the bindings. i have some doubts between the CARTEL , The GENESIS (my favortie until now) and the MALAVITA.
i am all mountain rider. like powder and carving. but i want start to do some freestyle jumps and things.
thats why i bought this board.
what of this 3 bindings, that i mentioned , do you reccommend.
i am 174cm tall and weight 75kg. the board is 155
Looking forward to your thoughts. Very much appreciated.
Hi Jose
Thanks for your message.
Those 3 bindings aren’t incredibly different, but there are some subtle differences. For the Process Flying V, I would say that the Genesis are the best choice. They are the most expensive too, but if you have the money to spend, then that’s what I would put on the Process Flying V. If you’re budget is smaller, then the Cartel’s are great value for money and would certainly work on the Process Flying V. If you’re more concerned with response rather than freestyle performance, then the Cartel’s are also preferable over the Malavitas. If freestyle performance is more important, then the Malavitas are a great choice, if you don’t want to quite spend as much as you would for the Genesis.
So yeah, I’d say Genesis first, but if you wanted to save some cash, then either the Cartel or the Malavita, depending on whether you value response or freestyle performance more.
Hope this helps
Great review!
I wish I would have found your website earlier, but I just bought a 159 Process (Camber version) with Malavita bindings. I came from a super old 158 Clash (10+ years). I am an on/off All Mountain rider, but went riding more regularly in the past few years, hence why I bought the new board.
I am 182cm tall got a size 10/10.5 (US) boot and got the Process with medium bindings. It fits snuggly (tried it with several boots in the shop, but didn’t have my own with me), but got a little bit worried after seeing on the website that the 159 Process is intended for L bindings. The guys in the shop were confident it will be fine, especially with the snug fit on the binding (I might get newer boots sometime which will most likely have a much smaller footprint than my old ones). You think it be better to put L bindings on the 159 Process?
That being said: Any suggestions for boots? Was looking at the Burton Ions, Photons or Concord but am a bit lost.
Sorry for all the questions, but my first ride with the board is coming up on Friday and wonder if I made a big mistake or just give it a shot.
Hi Andreas
Thanks for your message.
I think the Medium bindings will be fine on the 159 Process. If they fit your boot well, then that’s the main thing, IMO, and if you end up going with a new Burton boot, I don’t think you should have any issues there. I wear size 10s and prefer Burton bindings in medium. Yes, going with Large would give you a little more leverage in terms of getting the base plate closer to the edges of the board, but you can extend the toe ramp of the bindings as long as it can go, or close to, which you’ll likely want to do anyway, given that your on the higher end of the size range. Personally I would prefer to go on the Process 159 (which is the size I would ride that board too) with Medium Burton bindings.
As to whether that’s a good size, if you can let me know your weight, then I can give you a more informed opinion.
In terms of boots, I think it depends on what you’re looking for. If you want them to be stiffer, more supportive and more responsive, then the Ion and Photon are more suitable. But if you’re looking for a softer more forgiving flex, if you like to ride a bit of freestyle, if you want a bit more agility at slower speeds (i.e. ride slow more than fast) or if you consider yourself at a more intermediate than advanced level, then the Concord would be a better bet, IMO.
In terms of flex, I would rate the Ion 7/10, the Photon 8/10 and the Concord 5/10.
But if you want to check out more options check out the following:
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots 4/10 or 5/10 flex
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots 6/10 or 7/10 flex
>>My Top 5 Freeride Boots 8/10 and up flex
Hope this helps
Thanks so much Nate! Really appreciate (and sorry for the extra message via the contact form).
My weight is around 90kg (always a little more than less of course), which is also why I went with the 159 (and I prefer the green over the blue graphic).
Thanks also for the boot suggestion. Yeah, I do like them to be responsive when I need to bite into the icy patches riding down the mountain. Not going to do much freestyle except for a few jumps here and there, but no park stuff (gotta watch those old bones). However, I definitely do consider myself more of an intermediate rider than advanced.
Thanks to your links and the reviews on the site, the Adidas lineup caught my eye. I think the Response or Tactical might also be good.
Looking forward to your thoughts. Very much appreciated.
You’re very welcome Andreas.
Yeah, I think the 159 was a good call – the right size for you for that board, IMO.
Thanks again. Really appreciate your feedback. Gonna take it for a ride tomorrow, see how it performs with the old boots and maybe take a look at some new ones during the weekend.
Will let you know how it felt, but you definitely took away my concerns.
Sounds good. Let me know how you get on.
Hi Nate,
as promised, a quick reply after the first two days with the my new setup.
In short: I had a blast!
All your advice was spot on. The board feels great and the M bindings were the absolute right choice. I had to get used to it for the first few runs compared to my old board, but I immediately felt that this is going to work.
Extending the gas pedals to max got me the perfect size for the front side. I noticed on the first runs that I didn’t get the pressure as I was used to on the heel, but adjusting the highback on the Malavitas (rotation and bit of forward lean) worked like a charm. A bit of edge tuning might also do the trick though.
Ordered some Adidas Response and Acerra (they don’t sell the Tacticals here, only as super expensive import, but I wanted to try BOA anyways) and will try them on.
Thanks again for your advice!
Hi Andreas
Thanks for the follow up. Awesome to hear that the gear is going well for you!
Hey thanks for the review.
I’ve ordered this board in a 157W I’m US size 11s, Did you demo this regular or wide?
Hi Stephen
Thanks for your message. I demoed this in the regular width, but I wear 10s. The 157W is more appropriate for 11s, IMO – so I think you’ve gone with the right width in your case.
Thanks Nate, I’m having a bit of a hard time with widths. I have an Endeavour 155 board I ordered a few weeks back based on a recommendation from a shop. The board waist is 24.9cm, which worried me a little when I read your width guide…
However with my boots my overhang on that Endeavour is around 1.5cm – 2cm.. which sounds optimum, this is with my stance set at 15 -15, large union flites size 11 US boot. Adidas ZX500s which are perhaps a little small.
I’ve ordered this Burton Process 157W which has the 25.7cm width to see the difference between the two, If my maths is right I’ll lose around 0.4cm on my overhang at 15 -15. It’ll also allow me more play with the angle if I ever want to reduce it.
The tricky part is going to be deciding which one is right. I’m thinking the Process Flying V based on what I’ve read but hoping it won’t be super sluggish with the smaller overhang on the wider board.
Hi Stephen
Yeah with Adidas boots, they’re likely to have a smaller outersole – and with +15/-15 angles, you can certainly fit narrower. Conservatively, I would say Adidas 11s are more like 10.5s, but maybe even almost 10s. With 10.5s and +15/-15 angles going to 249mm at the waist is certainly a possibility and certainly with 10s and those angles. The 1.5 to 2cm overhang is absolutely fine – it is ideal to be somewhere around there. And given your boots and angles and I’m not too surprised there.
But in terms of feeling sluggish that’s going to come down to your feet – that’s ultimately what’s exerting pressure on the edges of the board. So, in boots with a typical outersole, you would likely have had at least an extra cm of overhang – but you’re feet would be the same. So, assuming your feet are 28.5cm-29cm (which is roughly what they would usually be in a size 11), then you should be fine on a 257mm waist. However, that said, you would also likely fit on the 252mm waist of the 157, so you could switch to that if you wanted to.
I don’t know Endevour boards well, but it may also be the case that the Endevour Live is cinched at the waist a bit, but it’s hard to say because I couldn’t find any info on the tip and tail width for it.
I would say the best thing to do, is to measure your foot across the inserts of the board (at a 15 degree angle), making sure to measure on the base of the board (not the top sheet) and see. If your feet are edge to edge, or even over the edges, then that’s ideal, assuming not too much boot overhang (which it sounds like isn’t an issue here). If your feet are too far inside the edges (like more than a 2mm on both heel and toe – so more than 4mm total) – then that starts to get too wide. If you have the boards with you to measure on, this is more what I would judge it on than boot overhang (assuming boot overhang isn’t excessive).
Hope this makes sense and helps
Wow! that is a great reply. Thanks so much, I’m waiting on the 157W. I’ll test what you’ve said and may take a look at the 157 regular. Again thank you for the comprehensive reply, great reviews and great advice!
You’re very welcome Stephen. Let me know how it goes with the 157W
Hi
I have had a custom x for about the last 10 (ish) years, but hired a process Flying V for a day and it was a revelation compared to my old board.
I am knocking on a bit now so leave the park tricks to the younger less brittle boarders. I love powder and fast carving slope riding, are there any other boards I should try do you think, before buying a new process?
Cheers
Craig
I
Hi Craig
The Custom X is a lot of board that’s for sure! So you probably appreciated the more easy going nature of the Process Flying V.
But I am wondering if going for something more in the middle might be a better option. The Process, to me, is more freestyle oriented – still all-mountain, but leaning more towards freestyle than freeride. And it sounds like freeride is more what you’re into.
If you’re keen to stick with Burton, then the other option might be:
~ Burton Custom Flying V: You still get the Flying V shape, but it’s just that little bit stiffer and little bit better for carving and speed than the Process. But still a good bit softer and way more forgiving than the Custom X
~ Burton Flight Attendant: This is a freeride board. It will be stiffer than the Process and the Custom, but still not quite as stiff as the Custom X. It doesn’t have the Flying V profile, but it does have rocker in the nose – which does make it a little more forgiving and also helps with float in powder (not as easy going as the Process or Custom but more so than the Custom X). This board is quite specialized towards speed, carving and powder – which it sounds like is how you most like to ride. You can read more about it in my review at the link below, if you’d like:
>>Burton Flight Attendant Review
Of course the other option is the Burton Custom X Flying V. Basically the Custom X but with a Flying V profile in place of the Camber. This makes it a very different feeling board. You can check out my review on that too at the link below:
>>Burton Custom X Flying V Review
In saying all of that, if you liked the Process Flying V, then that’s still def an option too (and is the cheapest option).
One more thing – if you know what the size of the Process Flying V you rode was, would you be able to let me know that and the size of your Custom X.
And, finally, if you wanted to look outside of Burton, there are other options too. Check out the next link to get an idea of some good all-mountain options.
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, I’m a Intermedium snowboarder ( I think…), I’ll buy a board this winter. I already have a lot of fun carving in the slopes and last year just started with some small jumps on the park. I’d like to keep doing both things, and improving. I have a great deal for a second hand Burton parkitect, just the right length for my weight. I’m just a bit afraid that the parkitect may be too much a park board for me, and leaks a bit riding the rest of the mountain. So a started looking a the process that seem more versatile, but would be MUCH more expensive for me. I’d be greatful for your expert advice!
Thanks
Cheers
Zé Elias
Hi Jose
The Parkitect is (was) what I would call an all-mountain-freestyle board, and a pretty good one too. The biggest weakness for riding the mountain would be for riding powder. It’s certainly stronger for jumps, jibs, riding switch etc, than it is for carving/speed – but it can handle the rest of the mountain.
I guess my biggest concern with the Parkitect would be that it’s a traditional camber profile. Some people of course, prefer this, but it’s a profile that can make it easy to catch an edge, if you get off your game. If you’re used to riding a board with a lot of camber, then you shouldn’t have any problems – but if your not used to a full cambered board, then it could take some getting used to. Otherwise, I think it would be fine for your purposes.
The Process Flying V is certainly a bit more versatile and definitely not catchy at all.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Thanks for the review. I am deciding between the 2018 process flying v and 2018 process off-axis. Will probably come down to personal preference but do you have any thoughts between the two?
Thanks
Hi Adrian
Yeah definitely down to personal preference, like you say – and somewhat down to ability level too. The two boards actually have some reasonably significant differences.
The camber profile for starters – the process Flying V has a very easy going hybrid rocker profile, whereas the Off Axis has Burton’s Pure Pop Camber, which is a more camber dominant profile, that’s a bit more aggressive in feel.
Also, whilst they both have a twin shape, the Flying V is setback 12.5mm, where the Off Axis has a centered stance. The Off Axis is also an asymmetrical twin (so having a +15/-15 stance is best).
The Off Axis is more designed as a park board whereas the Flying V is more of an all-mountain board – all be it on the playful end of all-mountain riding, with a freestyle-ish focus – but the Off Axis is more specifically for freestyle/park.
The Flying V you could ride as a beginner or above, whereas the Off Axis, you would want to be at least at an intermediate level.
But if you’re intermediate and up, the decision really comes down to whether you are predominantly park oriented (then go with Off Axis) or want a board that is a bit of a do-it-all kind of board (then go Flying V)
Hope this helps with your decision.
Just want to point out that this board is true twin instead of directional twin
Hi Daniel
Thanks for your input. True, it is technically a true twin but I still consider it a directional twin because the reference stance is a setback stance. If you were to center on the board, i.e. different from the recommended stance on the board, then it would become a true twin. But I guess it depends on your definition of true twin. The overall shape and flex of the board is twin though, you are right.
And I should probably mention the reason why I put directional twin in the review – thanks for pointing that out for me.
I just noticed that I did mention something in the “switch” section – but I’ll make it more obvious in the specs table.
Hi Nate,
My height is 5′ 10″ , weigh 170 and boot size 10. What size would you recommend?
Hi Artem
If you’re more of a beginner, early intermediate rider, then I’d go with the 157cm. If you’re more high level intermediate or above, then I think the 159cm would be the best size for you. Both would be fine width-wise for size 10s. But also if you prefer a little bit shorter usually then the 157cm is still an option even if you’re more advanced – but I think the 159cm would be the better choice otherwise.
Hope this helps.
Hey nate,
I just got the 17 burton process flying v and was wondering which bindings would go best for it. I was thinking either the cartel or Genesis but not sure yet. What would be the best in your opinion?
Hi Tanner
Both the Cartels and Genesis are great bindings (and both would work well with the Process Flying V). I prefer the Genesis just that little bit more, I find they are a little bit more flexible but manage the same responsiveness as the Cartels and are maybe just slightly more comfortable. But the Cartel’s are cheaper.
If money isn’t a big problem, then I would go Genesis but if you want to save some cash and still get really good bindings then Cartel.
Hi Nate,
I am looking into buying a Burton Process Flying V 2015-2016. I am 5 foot 10 and weigh 190. What size would you recommend?
Hi Rupert
If your boot size is size 11.0 or under then I’d say the 159cm would be the best size for you. If your boot size is 11.5 to 12.5, then the 159W would be a better option.
But the 162 (or 162W) are also options.
The advantages of going longer are that you’ll have more stability at speed and better float in powder – and overall a bit better for carving.
The advantages of going shorter are that the board will be more maneuverable/more nimble and will be better for spins/tricks. And all round just a bit more easy going.
I’d say if you are an intermediate rider, then the 159cm would be better and if you are advanced/expert, then it would depend on your preferences – if you ride a lot in powder and if you like to ride fast and carve a lot and don’t do a lot of freestyle type stuff, then 162. If you want to be able to do some of the more freestyle stuff as well as other stuff, then 159cm.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
First of all thanks for a very detailed review. I am about to learn some butters (never even attempted one) but also spend some time all over the mountain. Initially I was going for a Burton Descendant which is a camber profile. I was told I’d be limited to them butters as it is quite a soft board and will lack an edge hold while carving. I’m not talking about great down hill speed although would like to push it a bit. Would I be able to do butters with ease on Process Flying V or will I struggle? Which of these two would you recommend? Worth mentioning that I am still a beginner when it comes to tricks and spend most of the year at indoor slope – twice a year on the mountain.
Thanks
Hi Bart
I think that the Process Flying V would be your better bet. I would say this is more versatile than the Descendant – the Descendant is more freestyle focused – and yeah it does lack a bit in the carving stakes.
I found this board was pretty easy to butter. Not the easiest I’ve ridden – but pretty easy and if you want easier you’ll have to sacrifice on some other aspects. So I think all-round this would work for you and I’d go with it over the Descendant.
Thanks a lot for a rapid reply. I’ll give it a go, if I struggle I’ll just push myself until I get it right 😉
Regards
You’re very welcome Bart. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hello, first of all, big thumbs up for ur website, really appreciate the effort!
I am trying to decide between Burton Process Flying V 2015 and Rome Factory Rocker 2016. My current board is a traditional camber and pretty stiff so I want to have something more playfull as well.
Thank you very much for your reply.
Hi Jay
I would class the Process Flying V as an all-mountain/do-it-all kind of board – but definitely on the playful side of all-mtn boards. It’s got a medium bordering on medium-soft flex, IMO. Probably a 4.5/10. It has a directional twin shape and a small setback (12.5mm).
The Factory Rocker is more of a freestyle oriented deck but can be used over the whole mountain. I would say it’s a bit softer than the Flying V – medium soft, probably a 4/10, so not too much softer. It’s a true twin shape with a centered stance.
I think the Factory Rocker would probably be more of a contrast to your current board – though both boards would be quite different – and both definitely more playful than a stiff camber board.
trying to decide between the process flying v and skate banana do you have any advice leaning either way i do have 2 other burton boards the custom an the name dropper love the custom want something a little more playfull
Hi Ryan
Those are two quite different boards. Both will definitely be more playful than the Custom though.
I would classify the Process Flying V as a playful all mountain board and the Skate Banana as a freestyle board – all be it one that can ride the rest of the mountain ok.
The Flying V is a directional twin, setback 12.5mm and is a hybrid rocker (it has both camber and rocker in the profile) though more rocker than camber. The Skate Banana is a true twin, centered board with an all rocker profile.
The Skate Banana will be better for riding switch and hitting jibs.
The Flying V will be better in powder and for carving, just. Both about the same for jumps.
The Flying V is a little stiffer than the Skate Banana but not by that much.
Both boards would be somewhere in between the name dropper and the custom in terms of the custom being a very jib oriented park board and the custom being a more aggressive all mountain board. The Flying V would be probably more exactly in the middle with the Skate Banana closer to the Name Dropper than it would be to the Custom – if that makes sense?