Hello and welcome to my Burton Skeleton Key review.
In this review, I will take a look at the Skeleton Key as a surfy-freeride snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Skeleton Key a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other surfy-freeride snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Burton Skeleton Key
Price: $519
Style: Surfy Freeride
Flex Rating: Medium
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating Score: 90.0/100
Compared to other Men’s Surfy Freeride Boards.
* note that the "surfy freeride" category is a new category here at Snowboarding Profiles - and represents freeride boards that are in that softer flex range - 6.5/10 or less. They're not necessarily "surfy" feeling boards as such - but "slightly softer flexing freeride" just didn't have the same ring as a category name!"
Out of the 28 men’s freeride snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Skeleton Key’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Skeleton Keys specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | Surfy Freeride |
Price: | $519 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Medium-Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | Directional Hybrid Camber Camber to tail and rocker in the nose |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Setback 50mm |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | Normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
150 | 252 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
154 | 256 | 120-180 | 54-82 |
158 | 258 | 150-200 | 68-91 |
162 | 262 | 180-260+ | 82-118+ |
Who is the Skeleton Key Most Suited To?
The Skeleton Key is great for anyone looking for a softer flexing freeride board. Someone who wants to carve, hit powder whenever they can and might like popping some rollers, ollies or lips.
Not for someone who likes to ride switch or do 180s, but not a lot of freeride boards are.
Not for a beginner at all. It's not overly stiff, but still too stiff for a beginner - and there's a a lot of camber there, so even someone who is just identifying as intermediate might struggle a little too. Solid intermediate and up, IMO.
The Skeleton Key in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Skeleton Key is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Burton Skeleton Key 2020, 158cm (258mm waist width)
Date: March 9, 2019
Conditions: Sunny with some clouds and perfect visibility.
Snow was well groomed and soft on top on groomers and soft but quite tracked off groomer (but there had been quite recent snowfall and still some untouched pockets).
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 560mm (22″)
Stance Setback: Setback 50mm
Width at Inserts: 268mm (10.55") at front insert and 268mm (10.55")*
*unusual for a board this directional to have identical back and front insert widths, but in this case the setback seems to cancel out the taper. Taper usually makes the back insert narrower than the front insert, but setback means that the back insert is on a wider part of the board as it's closer to the wide points, but in this case those 2 things seem to cancel out.
Rider Height: 6'0"
Rider Weight: 185lbs
Rider Boot Size: US10 Vans Aura
Bindings Used: Burton Malavita M
Powder
The Skeleton Key provides really effortless float in powder. It was an enjoyable board to hit the powder on for sure, and I'm sure would perform well in deeper powder too.
And it was no surprise that this was the case, given the rocker in the nose, the long wide nose vs the narrower, shorter tail and a good amount of setback along the effective edge too.
There was 59cm from the center of the front binding to the end of the nose and 42cm from the center of the back binding to the end of the tail - so you're a good bit back on this board, and you really felt that in the powder.
It's just that little bit wider too, so it's really set up to ride powder.
Carving & Turning
Carving: A great little carver. It's got plenty of camber and spring out of turns and just really fun to carve on. S turns are fun too. It's not so unforgiving that you can't ride it a little more casual too, when you feeling it.
Maneuverability at slow speeds: It's not super agile, but it's not a tank at slower speeds either. Having that softer flex for a typical freeride board helps to make it more agile at slower speeds.
Skidded Turns: Doable, but not ideal.
Speed
I was surprised at how stable the Skeleton Key felt after opening it out. When riding it slower it felt like it had quite a bit of flex to it, which usually makes a board feel a little wobbly when riding fast. But it surprised me. Not the bomber that stiffer boards can be, but still really good.
Uneven Terrain
Handled uneven terrain really well. Forgiving enough in crud and going over bumpy terrain and nimble enough to go around bumps. The personality of this board adapts well to both slower, trickier terrain and faster terrain where you can open out.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Jumps
Not bad for jumps. Not something I'd be doing too many spins on, but for straight air it's not bad.
Pop: The pop isn't epic. It's not like what you get out the Paramount of anything like that, but it's decent enough. Decent spring off the tail.
Approach: Nice and stable for approaches to larger jumps. Not ideal for smaller jumps or trickier side hits, but not bad either.
Landing: Nice and solid on a landing, but forgiving enough too.
Side-hits: OK on side-hits. Not for doing 1's off sidehits, IMO, and not like super nimble for trickier approaches, but poppy enough and not bad overall. But certainly good for straight air over rollers, lips etc.
Small jumps/Big Jumps: Slightly more suited to medium to large jumps vs smaller jumps/hits.
Switch
Felt weird to ride switch and looking at the specs it's no surprise.
Spins
Not really one for spins, IMO. Just didn't feel like a natural spinner - and taking off and landing switch wasn't great.
Jibbing
Not one for jibbing really. Doable if you really want to, but limited for jibs.
Butters
It's got some flex in the tip and tail, but not really one for buttering and the tip and tail flex feels different, so it's just a bit weird to butter on.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 4.5 | 27/30 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 16/20 |
TURNING | 4.0 | 16/20 |
CARVING | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
SWITCH | 1.5 | 1.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90/100 |
Overall, the Skeleton Key is a fun ride - nice and carvy with all that camber, but handles powder and uneven terrain really well too and isn't bad for jumps/ollies either.
It's a great option for those looking for a softer flexing freeride board and one that's a little lower cost than most freeride boards.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the Skeleton Key, or if you are ready to buy, or if you just want to research prices and availability, check out the links below.
If you want to check out some other surfy freeride snowboard options, or if you want to compare how the Skeleton Key compares to other surfy freeride snowboards, then check out the next link.
Hi Nate, thank you for your time and excellent review. I just got a skeleton key 162. I am 6’1” 190lbs. I normally ride a Solomon assassin 159. I went for the bigger size for the skeleton key thinking it would be good for downhill speeds as my Solomon can be a little choppy. Would you recommend the 162 for my size, it does seem MUCH bigger than what I normally ride.
Hi Zachary
Thanks for your message.
Can you let me know your boot size? I don’t think it’s over the top in terms of length for your specs – but it will depend on boot size. As the Skeleton Key is a little wider than normal, it might be that it’s a little big overall in terms of length and width.
Hi Nate,
After an awesome weekend in Park City, I’ve finally decided to pull the trigger on buying a board. I know I’m well overdue and have probably stunted my progression by waiting this long. I really want to grab a Burton SK, but worry that it might be too advanced/technical of a board for me. I’ve spent a couple weeks total on the slopes in the last couple years and would consider myself a solid 5 on your rating scale, while edging toward a 6. I can take blues and easier blacks at pretty good speeds, and have started experimenting with double blacks and off piste runs with friends, though heavily wooded runs still freak me out a bit.
I plan on picking up an epic pass and spending a bunch of time on the slopes next winter, so I guess my question is, is this board something I can ease into after a couple days of boarding? If not, what board would you recommend for someone of my skill level? I am primarily interested in free ride, with no real inclination to ride switch or spend time at the terrain park. I would also be willing to get an all mountain as long as it can still handle some speed and off trial runs well enough. My measurements are 175lbs, 6′, with a size 10.5 boot. Thanks for your help!
Hi Jordan
Thanks for your message.
At a solid 5, bordering on 6 level, I think you should be good on the Skeleton Key, assuming your technique is decent (some people take on blacks/black diamonds but still aren’t necessarily riding with good technique). Would take some adjustment if you’ve just been renting to this point, but I think you should be fine from what you’re describing. The SK does have a fairly camber dominant profile, so it’s relatively technical in that sense, but it’s not overly stiff, so that makes it a lot more forgiving than a stiff camber dominant board is.
Size-wise, I think the 158 would be just right for you.
Hope this helps
Hey, hey,
Thanks for all the detailed reviews.
Curious to know a direct comparison between SK and Navigator. Both in 58. I read a comment on another Navigator review that they felt it was crazy soft. Like a 3/10. You felt it was stiffer then SK?
Thanks again
Hi Shred Nerd
Thanks for your message.
Not sure how anyone could get 3/10 from the Navigator, unless a. they are used to much stiffer boards and in comparison they felt that or b. they were way above the weight recommendations for the particular size they rode. Between the Navigator and SK, I would say the difference is very subtle. Looking back at my notes I was debating between 5.5 and 6 for flex for the SK and between 6 and 6.5 for the Navigator. Either way, no where near a 3/10 from the feel I got.
Hope this helps
Thank you.
Yeah. I’m not sure what that person was talking about. Maybe the previous flat version? Idk. They cray.
Any other direct comparison notes between the two? Is navigator a bit looser? I had an SK 54 for a bit last year as my resort pow board, but I sold it. Float was great, but the tail felt too short and too soft for my liking. Curious what a 58 would be like. I have a 54 Big Gulp that’s fun but the EE is pretty short so it just feels small and lacks confidence. It’s a bummer they don’t make it in a 57. I don’t know how the short/fat boards ever feel good landing. Haha. Anyway, it’s tough to see boards due to covid so I’m trying to base things off reference points I have (ie skeleton key) to find the perfect resort pow board. Navigator shape is dope and specs look good on paper.
Much appreciated. Your site is a great help!
Take care.
Hi Shred Nerd
Yeah I would say that the Navigator is a little looser feeling – a little surfier feeling. But it’s certainly not ultra loose. On a scale of loose to locked-in, I’d say it’s in the middle. The SK just slightly to the locked-in side, but pretty close to the middle as well.
I’d say the SK is better on a carve, but for quicker turns, like when you’re weaving through trees and that kind of thing, the Navigator is a bit quicker edge to edge I found. Both pretty similar in terms of stability at speed and in powder. I have a Navigator review, if you want to check out more details.
Hi Nate,
Really great reviews on this website! They are very informative and helpful.
I’ve been eyeing the SK for a while now, planning to buy it this year summer for next winter season. I was wondering if I should go for the 154 or 158? My height is 174cm and weight is 67kgs. Also, I identify my skill level as a high Intermediate 5 so I’m also wondering if this is suitable for my skill level as well. Basically, I want to focus more on being able to carve and ride in powder and free riding in general. I’m also open to other board recommendations too.
My current bindings are the Burton Step Ons with the Burton Ruler Step On boots.
Thanks!
Hi Kevin
Thanks for your message.
If you’re a high intermediate, then I think you would be fine on this board – and I think it’s a very good option for your skill level for freeriding – without having to go to a really stiff, technical freeride board. The Ruler setup is a good match to this board too, IMO.
Size-wise, I would go 154 for your specs for sure. 158 too long for you, IMO. But if you could also let me know your boot size, just to make sure that size will be suitable.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for your reply and the size recommendation!
It’s good to know that I don’t need a separate setup for this board so that’s great.
My boot size is mondo 250/US 7.
Hi Kevin
Thanks for the extra info. I would actually be debating between the 150 and 154 for you for this board, with that boot size and your height/weight specs. You could definitely ride the 150 in this board, IMO. However, the 154 is still suitable as well. You would get a more nimble ride, better edge-to-edge at slow speeds and all round a little more playful with the 150. The 154 would give you more on big high speed carves, more stability at speed and better float in powder. I think both sizes would work, just depends on what you’d want to maximize from those things.
Hey im 200 pound and was wondering whether or not the 162 or 158 would be better im 6 feet and have 11 size boots
Hi Garu
Close call, IMO.
Width would be OK on the 158 in some scenarios. If you ride with a straight back binding angle (like 0 degrees to 3 degrees), have bulkier boots (i.e. not low profile) and really like to lean into your carves, then I think it would be too narrow. If you have a couple of those things different (i.e. low profile boots and more angle on your back binding), then I think you’d be fine. If that makes sense.
In terms of length, each would have pros and cons:
– The 158 would be a little more playful, softer flexing feeling, and easier to maneuver at slower speeds.
– The 162 would give you more stability at faster speeds, feel stiffer, and provide better float in powder. And generally better for big arcing high speed carves.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey man!
Looking at the SK as my one board quiver. On the east coast and mostly like to carve, do trees, and pow when I can get it.
Size 9 boots. 5’11 and 160 pounds. Think I should go for the 150 or 154? For reference I’ve tried an Orca 153 and felt it was a bit wide for me, wanted something more carveable/turny. Any suggestions? Also open to other boards you think might be better. Thanks man!
Also, would union forces be a solid binding choice? I’ve got Burton Photon boots on the stiffish side
Hi Robin
Thanks for your message.
The Orca is a really wide board and I think the 150 is probably the more appropriate size for the Orca for your specs. But yeah, it’s certainly not a sharp turner. It prefers longer, more drawn out lines, from my experience.
The SK is certainly more turny than the Orca, and nowhere near as wide (e.g. the SK 158 I tested was 268mm at the inserts compared to 276mm/275mm at the inserts on the 153 Orca).
I think the 154 is probably the best size for you for the SK. It’s still on the wide size for 9s, IMO (around 266mm at the inserts), but 154 is sizing down a little in length compared to a standard all-mountain length, so that shorter length compensates for that wider width. Versus the 153 Orca, the 154 SK will feel a lot more maneuverable. It’s softer flexing and considerably narrower.
If you wanted to maximize trees, then 150 is certainly not out of your range, but it would be quite a big size down and you wouldn’t get as much out of it in powder and for big carves. I think the 154 is the best option as a good balance between everything, as you one board quiver.
The Force, IMO, would be a good match for the SK/Photon setup.
Hope this helps
Thanks that helps a bunch!!!
Was also looking at the GNU gremlin, do you think that might be a better option with the magnetraction as I’m on the east coast with plenty of hard snow?
Or do you think that’s too similar to the orca and I might prefer the more maneuverable SK.
Anyway thanks so much for the reply man! Helps a bunch
Hi Robin
I haven’t ridden the Gremlin, so I couldn’t say for sure how maneuverable it feels in comparison. On paper, I think it would be more so than the Orca though. If going 152, which is the size I would go for the Gremlin for you, it’s overall narrower than the Orca and it also looks to be a good bit softer flexing, which increases maneuverability, particularly at slower speeds too. So, I think it would be more appropriate for what you’re describing versus the Orca, but couldn’t say for sure how it feels to ride, having not ridden it yet. Going to try to get my hands on one this season (but that doesn’t help you now!).
Hey man – got the 154 SK on your recommendation and just wanted to say thank you!
This thing is soooo much fun!!!! Loving the board so far and appreciate the advice
Hi Robin
Thanks for the update and you’re very welcome. Awesome to hear that the SK is treating you well! Happy riding!
Hey Nate!
I’m considering grabbing a SK 158 and was wondering about sizing. I wear a size 8 boot and am worried it might be a bit too wide. I can’t go much shorter as I’m about 195 lbs.
Also, I currently ride a 2017 Slash Brainstorm 157 and love it. I’m looking for something a little surfier in the pow that can lay down some nice carves as well. The SK seems to fit this, but will it be that much of a difference?
Thanks for your time!
-David
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
I think it would certainly give you a little more in powder and can certainly lay down some nice carves on this board, but it is certainly wide for 8s and you might feel it a bit when riding groomers or trees (if you ride trees). In powder I think it would work well, but you might find a lack of agility when not in powder.
There are certainly other options you could go with, if you decided not to go with SK. I would be happy to offer some suggestions that might work. Are you looking Burton exclusively or open to anything? Also, just because I like to take everything into account, if you can let me know your height as well.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Thanks for the reply. I’m 5’7” and really open to anything. Through all my shopping I’ve been having trouble finding a board that supports my shoe size and weight. Super down for any suggestions you have!
Hi David
I would look into:
– Burton Family Tree Sensei – would be a great width, IMO, and I think the 156 would work well – or even if you wanted to try going longer, the 161 would even work – I would say it’s the narrowest 161 in existence (I could be wrong but I don’t know of others). So if you ever wanted to try riding something longer, I think that would work. Or if you wanted to stick to a shorter size, the 156 would work too.
– Skeleton Key in a 154. You’re outside Burton’s weight range, but given that even in the 154 it would be wide for your boots, I think sizing down to this would work. You would essentially be riding a short wide board
– Hometown Hero 156 – similar in width to your 157 Brainstorm at the inserts. I think this would certainly work.
– Lib Tech Ejack Knife 157 – this is a narrower board too. Waist is 253mm but actually a little narrower at the inserts than the Brainstorm 157
– GNU Mullair 155 – even narrower than the Ejack Knife (both waist and at inserts). I would predict this to be around 254mm at the back insert. It’s a stiffer board, but if you were to ride it in the 155 that would mellow out the flex. I’m guessing you’re not looking for anything too stiff, given you were looking at the SK?
– YES PYL 156 – also quite narrow. Around 256mm at back insert – like the Mullair, it’s a bit stiffer than something like the SK but sizing to the 156 would mellow that out a bit
– GNU Hyperkyarve 157 – quite a surfy feel. Maybe less in terms of carving than the others here, but very surfy in powder.
Hope that gives you some options to check out
Hi Nate,
I’m currently looking at buying the SK 154 or the Flight Attendant 156. I’m 5’8, 170 pounds and size 10.5 US boot. I’d say I’m a solid level 6 intermediate – level 7, judging based on your snowboard level article.
Looking for a board that can excel on groomers and off piste (tree runs). I’m leaning towards the SK 154 right now, but would like to know your opinion on which board. I’m buying board, bindings, and boots this year from Burton because I get a good deal with them.
On Burton’s site, they have the SK 154 as being best paired with Large bindings. If I get the Genesis X bindings in a medium instead of Large, would it have a noticeable effect? Or should I just go with the Larges?
And one last question, would the 256 mm waist width of the SK be too large for size 10.5 boots? As in would they be on the inside of the board on the toe and heel edge?
PS. Do you know where the SK is made? Is it China or Austria?
Thanks for everything you do, it’s immensely helpful.
Eric
Hi Eric
Thanks for your message.
As I said in another reply on the Flight Attendant review (not sure if you got it or not), I would be leaning towards the 154 SK for you. I think it suits what you’re describing well – and size-wise, I think it works well. In terms of width, definitely not too wide for 10.5s, IMO. Actually just right. The 156 FA is pushing it being too narrow for your boots. The 154 Skeleton Key just right, IMO.
I’m not entirely sure where it’s made, but I think it’s China – and judging by the price, I would say it’s China.
Great, detailed review. Thank you! I just bought a 2020 Mystery Skeleton Key XX 154 (2nd) from the giant retailer in Germany. I have a 2017 Mystery Custom 158 (2nd) that is my favorite board. I have a quiver of Burtons going back to 2000…I’m an old Freerider so I don’t hesitate to get one more.
Hi W
Thanks for your message.
Would love to hear what you think of the Mystery Skeleton Key, once you get it out on snow.
Hi Nate!
I had a couple of questions about the Skeleton Key. I was gonna pick one up for this season but I was having a couple of sizing issues. I am an experienced rider, I am 6’1″, wear a size 13 boot, and weigh 160 so I am a little light for the 162 but my boots are a little big for the 158 or 156. Just wanted to get your opinion on what size I should go with.
Hi Simon
Thanks for your message.
I can see your dilemma. Length-wise, I think you’re better on the 158, but think it would definitely be too narrow for 13s. That said, even the 162 might be too narrow. Ideally I would be looking at something 157W-159W. Don’t think there’s really an ideal size for this board. You could possibly check out the YES Hybrid, which is a similar-ish board, but wider.
Or if you wanted to stay Burton or looking for other options, let me know, and I can look deeper into some more suitable options.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the response! I currently get a pretty good deal on burton and arbor snowboards so I was looking to try and stay with one of them. Recommendations would be awesome! I currently ride the Ride Twinpig in a 154 so I was looking for something more all-mountain, something that can carve and maybe hit some powder or tree hits. Another board I noticed was the deep thinker, do you think I would fit in like the 157W? Or will that not be a good fit either? if so do you think it would ride similar to the SK. Open to any and all suggestions thanks! I know it’s sort of a weird size so there might not be many perfect fits but just wanted to get your input on a good board that would check my boxes.
Hi Simon
I think the Flight Attendant or Hometown Hero would be closer equivalents to the Skeleton Key, than the Deep Thinker. I found the Deep Thinker stiffer, and it’s less directional.
For the Flight Attendant I think the 159W could work, though for 13s, it’s still pushing it in terms of width. The 160W Hometown Hero though, I think would be the best fit and a closer board than the Deep Thinker. Also the Deep Thinker 157W wouldn’t give you much more width than the 159W Flight Attendant, which I think would be a better match.
Thanks so much for all the info, it was very helpful! I will definitely look into those!
You’re very welcome Simon. Happy riding!
Hello,
Hello! Another question for you if you don’t mind. I can grab the skeleton key cheap and was wondering if it would be a good compliment/companion to the Yes PYL? Or, if they are too similar and would be redundant to own both? If not, is there a fun surfy/pow board that would pair with the PYL.
Thanks! Pete
Hi Pete
The PYL and Skeleton Key definitely aren’t the same board, but they’re relatively similar in terms of what you’d want to do on them and even if you’re wanting 2 separate freeride boards – a more precise one and a more surfy/playful one, both the Skeleton Key and PYL are both on the more precise side of things. The Skeleton Key is a little more playful, just being a little softer, but it’s still pretty camber dominant and not what I’d call overly “surfy”.
I don’t think you’d feel like you’d have two of the same board or anything – you’ll definitely feel a difference between both, but whether they’re too close to have in the same quiver, maybe? I probably wouldn’t pair them in the same quiver.
I would likely go with something like one of the Capita Powder Displacement series boards or the Jones Mind Expander or GNU Hyperkyarve or something like that.
Hope this helps with your decision
This is great, really helps narrow down my decision. And I went for the PYL on your recommendation, can’t wait to try it out! All the best.
You’re very welcome Pete. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get the PYL out on snow. Always interested to hear other’s insights/opinions. Happy riding!
Hey Nate! Thanks for the great review and video. I’m also stuck between the 154 and 158, though I know I’m probably overthinking it. I’m 5’11”, ~150lbs, 10.5boot. I’ve been riding a 12 year old Rome Crail 156cm and am excited to upgrade. I was generally frustrated with the speeds I could get on that board, though not sure if that was a length issue or just the board. I primarily like charging/carving groomers, and riding through the trees. I ride on the west coast so we get a decent amount of powder every now and then. I’d like something that gives me a good amount of speed and stability, but isn’t so large I won’t be able to whip through the trees. Would appreciate your advice!
Hi Nick
Thanks for your message.
A tough call, and definitely see why you’re stuck on this one. Typically for your specs, for the Skeleton Key, I would say 154. But given that you’re looking to get more stability at speed, the 158 is certainly worth considering. I don’t have any experience on the Rome Crail, but looking at the specs, it looks like it should be pretty decent at speed, so I’m not sure the Skeleton Key in a smaller size would give you more. That said, given it’s 12 year’s old, it’s probably softened up a fair bit.
The Skeleton Key, IMO, will likely give better in float in pow for sure, even in the 154 vs the 156 Crail, for a number of reasons like being wider – having a good bit of rocker in the tip, the taper and the directional shape in general, but for speed, it’s maybe just a little better, but like I say, hard to say having not ridden the Crail, and the age difference between the boards.
Biggest downside of going 158, is for the trees, like you mention. For trees, I would definitely say 154.
Personally I found the Skeleton Key good at speed, but it’s not an out and out bomber – never going to be with a mid flex, but still really good. Whether or not it’s going to be an improvement vs the Crail is hard to say though.
I’d still be leaning towards 154 for you, but the biggest question mark would be over the speed thing.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate – could use some advice. I’m 5′ 11″, 160 lbs, with 10 boot. I’m torn between getting a 154 or 158 SK. I demo’d the 158 and was totally in love with it on the groomers I used it on. I didn’t get a chance to use it on the trees but could see myself manuvering the 154 more. I wanted to ask you, all things considered what size would you go with?
Additionally, what bindings and what size bindings do you think would go best with this? I really want a fantastic set up, something which can do “everything”, particularly good at ripping / bombing mountains, and comfortable an trust worthy. I heard the genesis X, but curious to what you have to say.
Lastly, I”m wondering if there’s a Lib Tech Travis Rice board which I should consider instead of the SK – The primary reason being I live on the east coast and go to a lot of VT mountains with Ice. I know LT can really hold edges with the magne traction, but wanted your advice on this again. Again looking for a really fantastic beyond average all mountain set up. Thanks!
Hi RJ
Thanks for your message.
I would be leaning towards the 154 for you. The only thing that makes me hesitate is that you rode the 158 and loved it. But based on specs, I would be leaning towards the 154, particularly if you do plan to spend a reasonable amount of time in the trees. That’s going just that little bit shorter than what I’d say for a “standard size” for you. But I think sizing down just a little on the SK makes sense, with it being a little wider. That said, it’s not super wide, but I still think the 154 is probably best, but the 158 would certainly work.
In terms of bindings – the Genesis X would certainly work. Any good quality binding with a flex of around 6/10 or 7/10 would be the way to go. Anything in that flex range from the following would work well, IMO, with the SK:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
If you’re wanting something that will drive the board harder and more aggressive, then the second list there is the way to go. If you want something a little more forgiving, then the first list. Since you mention something for “ripping/bombing” then I’d probably say something from the second list, which includes the Genesis X.
Yeah certainly the Lib Tech options better edge hold in icy conditions, IMO. In terms of the Travis Rice series, I’d say that the closest equivalents would be the T Rice Orca and T Rice Goldmember. But neither is that close an equivalent.
The Orca is the more similar shape – with a similar taper. But it’s stiffer than the SK and wider. I would say if you went there, you’d go 153 at most. It’s a good bit wider than the SK.
The Goldmember isn’t a board I’ve ridden, but just looking at the specs, it looks to be a similar flex to the SK. However, there’s no taper and a much more subtle setback. Less directional all round – I would say it’s more of an all-mountain board than a freeride board. Even though the waist width on it is about the same as the SK, I would say it’s narrower at the inserts (based on other similar Lib Tech boards which tend to not have too much difference between the width at inserts vs width at the waist). So I think the 157 would work well for the Goldmember.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Great reviews!! I’m an intermediate rider and looking for a new board. I want a board that I can handle, but also gives me motivation to ride better.
I don’t ride park or even switch so I want a directional board that is great for all mountain, whether it’s groomed, powder, trees and most often uneven terrain.
Do you think this would be the right board for me? Based on your reviews, I’m also considering never summer west bond, Capita Mercury and Yes hybrid. I’ve heard Ride Algorithm is also great. Which one (or others) would you recommend for me?
Cheers.
Hi Stanley
Thanks for your message.
I’d say the only thing with the Skeleton Key is whether the camber is too technical. It’s certainly a friendly enough flex for an intermediate rider, but it does have camber all the way to the tail – with rocker just in the nose. Which is why I’ve labelled it as a solid intermediate rider and up kind of board. If you do consider yourself a solid intermediate rider, then I think this would work for you, assuming there’s a suitable size.
The West Bound is kind of the other way around in some sense, in that it’s a little stiffer than the Skeleton Key but has a more friendly camber profile. Again, it’s something that I would consider a solid intermediate and up board. It’s got a fairly forgiving camber profile, but a slightly less forgiving flex vs something like the Skeleton Key, but again if you’re a solid intermediate rider, then it should be fine – and a good option for what you’re describing.
The Hybrid is a good option for what you’re describing too, and I would say is fine for intermediate riders. Sizing is limited, so you would want to make sure there’s a suitable size for you.
The Mercury would certainly work for what you’re describing – another one that I would say you’d want to be solid intermediate, but if so, then all good. It is less directional though and given that you’re not riding any switch or park, I would take advantage of the benefits of the more directional rides. I haven’t ridden the Algorhythm yet but from the looks of it, it’s more similar to the Mercury than the others – in being more subtly directional.
I think the Skeleton Key, West Bound and Hybrid are all good options for what you’re describing, assuming you’re a solid intermediate rider, rather than a more low intermediate rider. If you’re not sure – check out my skill level post – if you identify more as a level 6, then I think you’re good to go on any of those options. If you identify more as a level 5, then I think the Hybrid is still doable (given an appropriate size) or you could also look at something like the Lib Tech Cold Brew.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thanks so much for the suggestions and it definitely helped me to narrow down my choices.
I researched more about those board and found that the Hybrid could be little slow edge to edge on slower speed and the skeleton might be very damp for uneven terrain.
The never summer really seems to be a good choice for me. The only thing that I wasn’t sure is that it’s a rocker dominant board (although you should always be on one edge), do you feel it was stable when you were riding straight?
I also found that burton had two new models, the hometown hero and the one hitter. Very similar board, hero is stiffer and has more set back stance. What do you think of those?
I’m 6’2, 187lb, US10/US9.5. Burton website suggests the 156 board, I was also thinking 157 for West Bond. Do you think that’s the right size for me?
Hi Stanley
Even though there is a substantial rocker zone on the West Bound, it doesn’t feel overly rocker dominant. There’s a good bit of camber in the tail, and you definitely feel that. You do feel that rocker between the feet, but it’s still stable riding it straight – or at least I found. Some people don’t like that feeling of rocker between their feet, but I do. But I do ride a lot of different profiles and I’m very used to them all, but I wouldn’t say it’s overly loose feeling though.
I found the Hybrid to be pretty good edge-to-edge at slow speeds. It’s a wider board, so it’s something I would size down from your normal size for. But I found even going 157 – which is longer than I would normally go for a board that wide – that it wasn’t too bad. For your specs, I would certainly go 157, with that width being wide for your boots. Ideally you might go even slightly shorter than that at that width, but I didn’t find it too slow edge-to-edge at slow speeds (6’0″, 185lbs, size 10 boots). It wasn’t ultra snappy edge-to-edge either, but I wouldn’t describe it as slow.
I haven’t ridden the One Hitter, but I did ride the Hometown Hero. I liked it but I preferred the Skeleton Key overall. I found the Skeleton Key a little better in uneven terrain and for caving and speed. The Hometown hero feels a little stiffer, but only by a very small margin, from my feel. I would say Skeleton Key 5.5/10 and Hometown Hero 6/10, so not a long way different. The Hometown Hero is a little easier for riding switch, having a twin flex and slightly less setback (though it does have a greater taper, but only subtly). Even though Burton describes the hometown hero as “intermediate, expert” and the Skeleton Key “expert”, I would say that the Skeleton Key is more intermediate friendly, particularly if you’re not really going to be riding switch.
Size-wise, for the West Bound, I would say probably 160 is the best size for your specs, at an intermediate level. If you think you prefer shorter boards, the 157 isn’t crazy short for you or anything, but I think the 160 would be the slightly better fit.
For the Skeleton Key, I think the 158 would be most appropriate for you.
For the Hometown Hero, I would say it’s between the 156 and 160. The 156 might be the better option for you as an intermediate rider on a more advanced board like that. And it would be a better width for you too.
Thanks to your advice I’ve made my decision to go with 158 Burton SK and pair it with Cartel reflex bindings!
Burton suggested size L bindings for 158 but the cartel M is good for US8-11, the L is for 10+. I’m a size 10 so right in the middle. Do you think I should just get the size M bindings?
Hi Stanley
Awesome that you’ve chosen your new deck!
For Cartel’s with size 10s, you could go either for sure. For the board, the L would give you a little more in terms of leverage on the board, with a slightly longer base plate, so that’s one argument to go L. I typically ride Ms for Burton bindings with my size 10 Vans Aura and I like that fit best, but Large work too. Also the Aura are pretty low profile. What brand is your boots? Depending on the brand it might be better to go L for the boots – in which case, I would go L, since it’s also probably better for the board.
I’m currently riding the 157 skeleton key
When I’m out west I love getting into the trees. Finding a hike or just ripping the resort.
I do like popping off natural terrain.
I’m not a park or pipe guy
Kicking the season off in the northeast where I live, I feel the skeleton key is lacking the pop for ollies and natural features.
I’m interested in the Capita Mercury to be my daily driver to just get more pop. Is it at all similar to the skeleton or am I making a drastic change that is going to limit my overall big mtn experiences and tree runs at breck or big sky?
Hi Phil
Thanks for your message.
The Mercury is different enough. It’s a less directional ride. Less setback, no taper, and although it does have a slightly longer nose than tail, it’s not to the same extent as the Skeleton Key. The Mercury isn’t a twin, but it’s closer to a twin than the Skeleton Key. Practically speaking you would loose some powder performance for sure. Though the Mercury certainly isn’t terrible in powder. It is as good at speed though, IMO. It’s a little stiffer – so whilst it’s not as directional, it’s still got that extra stability from the stiffness. Mercury, IMO, is a little better for jumps and better for riding switch, certainly.
So it’s still something you can do big mountain with, but just not quite as suitable, IMO – particularly when it comes to powder. Certainly a different feel – more of a double ender feel, but not something you can’t ride hard.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision