Hello and welcome to my Capita Outerspace Living review.
In this review, I will take a look at the Outerspace Living as an all-mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Outerspace Living a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other all-mountain snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Capita Outerspace Living 2024
Price: $459
Style: All-Mountain
Flex Rating: Medium (5/10)
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium (5/10)
Rating Score: 84.3/100
Compared to other Men’s All-Mountain Boards
Out of the 37 men’s all-mountain snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Outerspace Living’ Specs
Check out the tables for the Outerspace Living’ specs and available sizes.
STYLE:
ALL-MOUNTAIN
PRICE:
$459
Ability Level:
flex:
feel:
DAMPNESS:
SMOOTH /SNAPPY:
Playful /aggressive:
Edge-hold:
camber profile:
HYBRID CAMBER
HYBRID Camber - Capita's "Resort V3" profile.
SHAPE:
setback stance:
setback 12.5mm (0.5")
BASE:
SintRUDED | Capita's "Superdrive™ FX Base" in between sintered and extruded.
weight:
Felt LIGHT
Camber Height:
5mm
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
150 | 242 | 100-150 | 45-68 |
152 | 243 | 110-160 | 50-72 |
154 | 248 | 120-180 | 54-81 |
156 | 251 | 130-190 | 59-86 |
158 | 253 | 140-200 | 63-90 |
160 | 256 | 150-210+ | 68-95+ |
155W | 260 | 125-185 | 57-84 |
157W | 262 | 135-195 | 61-88 |
159W | 264 | 145-210 | 66-95 |
161W | 266 | 155-225+ | 70-102+ |
Who is the Outerspace Living Most Suited To?
The ideal rider for the Outerspace Living is either
a. the casual groomer rider that wants an easy going board that they can get on on day 1 of the season and feel familiar and confident on it right away. Or;
b. A higher end beginner/low intermediate rider who wants a board they can progress on and will stay with them for a good while through their progression. It's a really versatile board too, so it's really good for progressing in any area, be it in powder, groomers or park.
Not for the absolute beginner, IMO, but higher end beginners, who are bordering intermediate, should be fine with this board.
Outerspace Living DetailS
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Outerspace Living is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Capita Outerspace Living 2024, 156cm (251mm waist width)
Date: March 21, 2023
Conditions
Mostly cloudy with some blue patches and the sun poking through occasionally. But bright and good visibility throughout the day (with some low cloud rolling in just as I was finishing up).
Temp 1°C (34°F) in the morning and warmed up to 3°C (37°F) in the afternoon. Wind was gentle at 5kph (3mph).
24hr snow: 0cm (0")
48hr snow: 0cm (0")
7 day snow: 5cm (2")
On groomer: Soft packed bordering on slushy to start and got progressively more slushy. Bumpy and rutty in places.
Off groomer: Not great but doable. Slushy for the most part - but it's better than ice!
Setup
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 555mm (22″)
Stance Setback: Setback 12.5mm (0.5")
Width at Front Insert: 261mm (10.28")
Width at Back Insert: 262mm (10.32")
Rider Height: 6'0"
Rider Weight: 180lbs
Rider Boot Size: US9.5 Adidas Response ADV
Bindings Used: Burton Malavita M
Weight: 2840grams (6lbs 4oz)
Weight per cm: 18.21 grams/cm
Average Weight per cm: 18.71 grams/cm*
*based on a sample size of around 250 models that I’ve weighed in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024 models. So a little lighter than normal on scales and felt lighter than normal on snow too.
Powder
No powder to test in on the day but based on specs and the feel in slush, it should be decent without being high-end in terms of powder performance. There's a bit of tip/tail rocker and a small setback, which both help.
Carving
It's OK for moderately slow carves, but doesn't handle high speed, aggressive carves as well.
Turning
Ease of Turning/Slashing: Really easy to initiate turns on and to slash around.
Maneuverability at slow speeds: It's pretty quick edge-to-edge. Not lightning, but still really nimble.
Catchiness: I didn't find it at all catchy.
Speed
When you start to get up to moderately high speed, you start to feel the chatter in this board. It gets chattery and a bit wobbly feeling. It's OK up to certain speeds, but not a bomber.
Uneven Terrain
Crud/Chunder: Feels everything. It's not a very damp board - and it's lightness doesn't help when it comes to smashing through chop, but it is easy to make corrections, when you get thrown off your line.
Trees/Bumps: Nice and easy to maneuver and quick edge-to-edge.
Jumps
Good and nothing to really complain about, but nothing overly exciting.
Pop: Really easy to access the pop that it does have, but not a huge amount of total pop.
Approach: Not great in terms of stability for bigger jumps, when you need more speed. But definitely stable enough for small to medium jumps and it's nice and easy to make adjustments and speed check, when you need to.
Landing: Good and forgiving for smaller jumps but not a stomper and lacks some stability on bigger jumps.
Side-hits: Really fun. Nimble and easy pop.
Small jumps/Big jumps: Best for small to medium jumps.
Switch
Transitions are nice and easy and un-catchy and feels pretty similar in either direction.
Spins
Easy pop and decent for setting up and landing switch. Not a lot of total pop and not as suitable for bigger tricks. Being light does help too.
Jibbing
Good for when you're doing lower speed setups and felt OK on features. Not ideal but something that I felt confident enough taking on jibs, noting that this is the weakest area of my riding.
Butters
Nice and easy to butter and can lock in presses nicely. Tip and tail feel very similar to press.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 6/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 6/10 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 3.0 | 6/10 |
TREES/BUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.3/100 |
While the Outerspace Living didn't rank in the top 10, for the all-mountain boards that we've tested, it's still a really decent board - and rates really well in terms of value-for-money. It's more than $80 cheaper than the average board in this category and still rates higher than the average score.
Whilst it may not blow you away with its performance, it's a really solid option that has no major weaknesses across all factors.
It's a more playful/casual feeling, easy-to-ride board vs being an aggressive, high speed burly board.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the Outerspace Living, 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 all-mountain snowboard options, or if you want to compare how the Outerspace Living compares to other all-mountain snowboards, then check out the next link.
Hello and welcome to my Capita Outerspace Living review.
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Outerspace Living is capable of.
Hello and welcome to my Capita Outerspace Living review.
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Outerspace Living is capable of.
There was one thing struck me immediately with this board – and that was how light it was. This is super light and is super easy to spin and is great for ollies – and it’s always nice by the end of the day on the lifts when the board is this light!
Hello and welcome to my Capita Outerspace Living review.
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Outerspace Living is capable of.
Hello,
love your work!
I am 175cm tall, 65kg (143 lb).
I ride with 15/15 and I wear 11 US Burtons – (I wear 9,5US sneakers (42,5 EU)).
What size board would you recommend?
And do you think I should get boots that fit me better in a smaller size? Because these are 1.5 size bigger than my street shoes?
Thanks,
Hi Mr. G
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I really think your best bet is to get boots in a smaller size. If you’re in US9.5 sneakers, then you really should be in snowboard boots somewhere between US9 and US10. Did you feel you had to go 11s in the Burtons, because the smaller sizes felt too tight? Or did you not try others on before getting them? The reason I ask is because sometimes people end up going to longer boots, because they are also wider. So, if you have wide feet, it could be the case that going with a wide-specific boot would allow you to get in a smaller size. It could also be the case that Burton boots just don’t match well with your feet/ankles and another brand might fit better in a smaller size.
The reason I think it’s important that you get smaller boots first, is that with your current boot size, you would have to go wide for this board and for most board, IMO. But with your foot size (and ultimately it’s your feet more than your boots that are applying the leverage to the edges), you would, IMO, be better off going with a regular width board.
If you did get into a size between US9 and US10, then I would go with the 154. This is definitely too narrow for 11s though, IMO. If you don’t change boots or if you can’t seem to fit anything smaller than a 10.5, then the 155W would be the best option.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi,
thank you so much for your suggestion.
Do you recommend any specific boots?
And if I got it right, snow boots should be about 0,5 size bigger than your regular street shoes?
Hi Nate,
Just one more question. I just saw that I have a chance to get Yes Typo a bit cheaper than OSL. If I manage to fit in US10 boots, what size Typo should I get? And if I don’t fit in US10, then what size Typo?
Thanks again,
Hi Mr. G
I think ideally the 152 in the Typo but the 155 is doable. If you’re more of a low-end intermediate or high-end beginner, then I’d be more inclined to go 152. If you’re more solid intermediate to advanced, I think you’ll be fine with the 155. If you don’t fit in a 10, then you’d have to go to the 156W, but I think that’s getting pretty big overall for your specs.
In terms of boots, I would be looking at something with around a 5/10 to 6/10 flex to match either of those boards. For the OSL you could go as stiff as 7/10 flex, but at your weight, I think you’d find that too stiff, so I wouldn’t go more than 6/10 flex in this case. Some good options in those flex ranges at the links below.
>>Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
Flex is, IMO, the second most important aspect. The most important being fit. Which of course depends on the person. Ideally you would try on in store (if you can’t find anywhere with the particular model you want to get, trying on something in the same brand is a good proxy. Not perfect but usually boots from the same brand fit similarly. If you can try on, see our sizing and fit guide below, so you know what to feel for when you try on:
>>How to Size Snowboard Boots
If you can’t try on in store, the guide below covers some things that are typical for different brands, depending on your feet.
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
If you can’t try on in store, and have the means, it can be a good idea to buy more than 1 pair and go with the one that fits the best and then return the pair you don’t want. But first make sure the return policy of the store is going to work for this, before you do it.
In terms of sizing, it’s not always the case that they will be 0.5 size bigger than your street shoes. That’s often the case, in my experience, but can fall in the range of 0.5 size smaller, the same as your street shoes or 0.5 larger. Depends on the brand, foot shape, how you fit your street shoes, etc. There are lots of variables and everyone is different. Which is why getting them on your feet is key to getting a good fit.
Hello!
Thanks for the review.
I’m struggling between the capita osl and the pathfinder camber version.
I’m an intermediate riding mostly groomers but only 5-10 days a year (unfortunately). I have no problem riding red slopes however I still need some work on my turns since I mostly skid.
Which board do you think would suit me best since I want to eventually transition to camber boards?
Additionally do you think the nidecker supermatics would be a good fit for this board?
Also can you advise me on which board to go for? I’m 1.84, 85 kgs and thinking of the 160.
Thanks!
Hi SS
Thanks for your message.
With the Pathfinder Camber being more camber dominant (still not quite full camber, but really close), I can see the argument to go with that, to transition more easily into full camber boards, given that’s where you’re wanting to go. And the Pathfinder is a pretty easy going ride for a camber board (fairly soft flexing), so it is a nice introduction to camber.
The OSL is still camber under and between the feet, so you’ll still get a camber feel and you’ll get something a bit stiffer, so it’s not a bad option either, but if you’re really looking to go camber, I would probably be leaning Pathfinder Camber. However, if you wanted to go Supermatic, I think they’re too stiff for the Pathfinder camber (too stiff a binding for a softer board and it can make the board feel twitchy). So if you were set on the Supermatics I would go with the OSL as it’s a better match to them. The Supermatics are still on the stiffer side for the OSL, but just in range, IMO.
Size-wise, I think the 160 would be a good bet for the OSL or even the 158 is in range too. But if you could also let me know your boot size to confirm. For the Pathfinder, the longest regular width size is 157, so that’s the one to go with, unless you have bigger feet. But I wouldn’t go wide unless you actually needed to. With the Pathfinder 157 it is wider than a typical regular width board, so sizing down to the 157 may make sense anyway, but that would depend on your boot size.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate.
Thanks a lot for the detailed reply!
Boot size is mondo 28.
Also based on the above, any other boards you would recommend?
Thanks again!
Hi SS
With your boot size, the sizes mentioned in previous reply would be a good bet, IMO (160 or 158 OSL or 157 Pathfinder Camber).
Some other potentials as intermediate suitable camber dominant boards, you could look at:
– Jones Tweaker
– Burton Process
– Arbor Element Camber
– Arbor Shiloh Camber
– Lib Tech Off Ramp (which was called the Box Knife prior to the 2024 model) – technically has rocker between the feet, but it’s very subtle)
– Lib Tech TRS (same deal as Off Ramp, in terms of the camber)
– GNU RC C3
Note that I have these in order of what would I think would be the easiest to ride to the most difficult.
Hi Nate.
Thanks again!
One last question. Where would the pathfinder and osl rank on the above list?
Also thoughts on the lib tech terrain wrecker?
Thanks you!
Hi SS
In terms of ease to ride, I would put the Pathfinder at the front of the list, before the Tweaker. I would out the OSL just after the Process.
The Terrain Wrecker is a great intermediate board, IMO, but it’s not ovely camber dominant. You definitely notice the rocker more than you do on GNU/Lib Tech’s C3 models. I wouldn’t say it’s a predominantly rocker feeling, but it doesn’t feel camber dominant either. There’s quite a big difference between their C2X camber and their C3.
Hello, i bought a capita outerspace 157W, i am 175cm and 85 kg, wear 10.5 US boots from DC(mondo 28.5). Do you think i should have bought a regular wide or is this ok? I didn’t want it to be longer because i have shorter legs than average, i have a narrow stance on the board. Thank you!
Hi Silviu
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t go as far to say the 157W is too wide for you. And the 156 is probably a little too narrow, depending on certain factors. The 158 would be more doable width-wise, with 10.5s. Personally, I would go regular width with 10.5s on the 158, but I would be riding with +15/-15 binding angles most likely. If you ride with straighter binding angles (e.g. 0-6 degrees), then it would be pushing it width-wise on the 158. The 156 probably a little narrow anyway. Doable, depending on how deep you like to carve. With something like +15/-15 angles and a not-too-aggressive carving style, I think you’d be fine on the 156 (and the 158). You could afford slightly straighter binding angles on the 158, but again, you wouldn’t want to have a super aggressive carving style if you did. The 157W is on the wide side for 10.5s (IMO) but nothing ultra wide or anything. And, if you’re carving fairly deep and/or with quite straight binding angles, then I think the 157W would be your best bet.
Hope this helps
I recently bought the capita outerspace living 158. However, I have the gut feeling I may have made a mistake.
I am 174 cm, and currently at 85 kg. So I am within the weight range of the board. However, I wear a size 44 (EU) shoe. I have the a burton step on binding/shoes. Have I bought a board that is in fact too narrow? I get the feeling I should have gotten the wide version, like the 157W for example.
Curious to know your thoughts on this. I have already used the board, so I can’t exactly return it. I am a beginner so… I may simply have to live with it for now and get a more advance board later down the road once I get into carving.
I really got the outerspace because I wanted a one board fits all solution that would last….
Hi Maylon
Thanks for your message. An EU44 Burton is I think a US11 (sorry need to translate it to get my head around it). If that’s the case, then I think it is a bit on the narrow side. It could cause some boot drag issues down the line, when you’re getting deeper in your carves. As a beginner, I don’t think you should have any issues with it. And having Burton boots, which are low profile, is in your favor, so I think you’d need to be carving fairly deep in softer snow for it to become an issue, but ideally I think you’d want to go wider. It might be okay, even down the line. It really depends on how your style develops. If you get into deep carving later, then going wider is probably going to be a good idea/necessary.
Hope this helps
Hello,
I consider myself a beginner / intermediate person, but I have a problem with choosing the right snowboard and its size.
I am athletic build, height 5’9”, weight 200-205 Lbs right now, shoe size 10.5. I’m considering at the moment:
Capita Outerspace Living 160
Yes Typo 158
Which one will suit me better because of the size?
Maybe I should consider a wider version due to shoe size? Does the wide version not hinder further progress in any way?
Hi Michael
Thanks for your message.
In terms of wider size hindering progression, I think it can, IF the board is too wide for your feet. If it’s too wide for your feet, then it requires more effort to apply pressure to the edges of the board. When it requires more physical effort, that often leads to crude technique as your body is having to try too hard physically just to apply enough pressure. In your case, with 10.5s, you’re on the cuff of regular or wide and it really depends on the board.
In this case for the Typo, the regular width is borederline too narrow. I think you’d get away with the 158 to start with, but if you start to get quite deep in your carving, it could cause boot drag issues. So the safer bet would be to go wide. The wide versions of the Typo aren’t super wide at the inserts, so won’t be too wide for your feet, IMO.
The OSL 160 is wider and should be all good for 10.5s in the regular width. And the wide sizes a bit too wide.
In terms of length, I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 160/161. But as a beginner/intermediate it makes sense to go a little shorter. That said, if you are strong/athletic, then you don’t need to size down too much, if at all. So I would go 160 if OSL and 159W if Typo.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you for such a comprehensive answer. It seems to me that in this case I will be tempted by the Capita OSL 160.
You’re very welcome Michael. Hope whatever you decide to go with treats you well and that you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
I am a beginner rider, only went snowboarding 5 times last season, and i’d like to get my own gear for the upcoming season (i skied for 10+ years when i was younger so i’d like to think i can progress faster than a complete newbie, i hope at least)
I am 5’10”, 165 lbs, size 11.5 US boots.
The board i was looking for is basically a do it all board, true twin since i like to ride switch (i plan on riding mostly groomers but still want something playful to mess around with), forgiving enough to fit the needs of a beginner yet a board i can progress on and i that won’t outgrow too quickly (i do not want to buy another board in the future). i have to say though i can only ride roughly 10 times a year
The three boards that caught my attention are the Yes Basic (156W), Capita OSL (155W) and Amplid ticket twin (155, but it’s wider than the basic at the inserts, so i should be fine with my boot size)
I am slightly leaning towards the Basic since i noticed it has the same specs (profile, shape and flex) of the OSL plus the underbite technology which seems a cool feature to have (i mean, just i case i needed it). I’ve also read both your reviews on the Basic and OSL and i had the feeling you liked more the OSL, am i wrong? If not, there is a reason why i should get the OSL over the Basic?
I also recently came across the Amplid ticket twin which i immediately liked for the design, it features a mellow camber with early rise (which i guess it s camrock basically) and a medium flex, but didn’t find any thorough review so i don’t know if it can be considered a beginner friendly board. I was wondering if you had more info on that by any chance.
Thanks for your time, i really appreciate it!
Best regards
Hi Thomas
Thanks for your message.
I don’t know much about Amplid, so can’t say anything from experience, so couldn’t say how it feels to ride, but in theory, based on specs, it looks like it could work as a high-end beginner/low intermediate board. Not super beginner friendly, but it doesn’t sound like its overly stiff or anything (they rate it 5/10 flex) and doesn’t sound like the camber is too aggressive or anything.
I think the Basic will be an easier board to progress on than the OSL and it’s better in icy conditions, if you see them a lot. Otherwise, both boards would work well for what you’re describing. The OSL would be the steeper learning curve, IMO, but otherwise a good option for what you’re lookin for. You could also consider the YES Typo, which is similar to the Basic, but just a little stiffer and a little less rocker in the profile and comes with a little better base. Like the OSL it would be a bit of a steeper learning curve, but is something you’d be less likely to outgrow versus the Basic. It’s not strictly a true twin, because it has a small setback stance, but it’s still good for riding switch. Not quite as good as the Basic, but very close.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
First of all thank you for the work you put on this, it really helps me!
i completely agree with you about the Amplid, it looks like a board i can manage somehow, but buying it sight unseen might be a little too risky mostly if we consider i am far from being an expert rider, let’s say i do not want to get some nasty surprises.
I already considered the Typo as well and it really seems a good match, even though i am not a fan of that setback stance since i plan on riding switch a lot Need to understand if that is a trade off i could live with.
Please correct me if i got this wrong, could we say the OSL is somehow comparable with the Typo in terms of performances and ability level they require? (maybe also the amplid could sit right here based on specs). I’m asking because i might have the chance to demo the OSL and in this way understand if the Typo is too much board for me or not.
Speaking of the Basic, do you think it s a board i’ll outgrow in the short term? Or is it suitable as an all-mtn/freestyle board for an intermediate (and maybe up) level rider?
Lastly, i plan on buying the Ride Anthem boots (i tried on both the Anthem and the Burton Rulers but found the Ride way more comfortable and snug) and i thought to complete the set-up with some Union STR bindings (also considered the Flite pros and the Stratas, but open to other recommendations). Do you think this will pair up well either with the Basic or the OSL/Typo?
Thank you so much once again, your website and work is golden!
Hi Thomas
Firstly, the Anthem and STR would pair well with the OSL/Typo/Basic, IMO.
And just to note that the OSL now comes with a 0.5″ (12.5mm) setback. Like the Typo it’s otherwise twin but does now have a setback. This came in for the 2022 model, I believe. The 2021 and earlier models had a centered stance. For reference the Typo has a 0.2″ (5mm) setback. The 12.5mm setback on the OSL is pretty subtle in itself, but on the Typo it’s super subtle.
In terms of performance and ability level, I would say they are comparable. I wouldn’t say they feel exactly the same to ride, but they are comparable in that sense.
The Basic isn’t something I think you’d necessarily outgrow in the short term, but something you’d likely outgrow more quickly than the Typo. Should still be fine for intermediate riding, but as you get more advanced it would depend on what you were wanting to do. If you were wanting to bomb pretty fast or ride a lot of powder, then you might find it wanting.
Hi Nate,
First of all i wanted to thank you for all your support. After speaking with you i am now really considering to go straight up to the Typo despite it being initially a little more challenging than the Basic but hopefully more suited once i get past that beginner phase. Still keeping an eye on the Basic though, and maybe grab it if i find a better deal (i’ll just let the price make the decision since it seems i can’t actually go wrong with either)
There’s only one more thing that might be worth considering and that might change the overall feel and performance of the board, which is sizing, I am 5’10”, 165 lbs with size 11.5 US boots, so i guess the best fit for me would be 156W, on both boards. This might be overthinking it too much but i was wandering if the wide version would feel stiffer than the regular one, and so if it’s something i should consider when choosing between the two boards. In the Typo review you said you rode the 155 model at the weight of 185 lbs, and that the flex feel was medium bordering on medium soft (4.5), and that makes sense since on the Yes website the weight recommendation for the 155 model are 120-180 lbs so i guess it’s normal you felt it to be softer and maybe easier to ride as well?. Basically i am afraid that that won’t be the case for me since i plan on getting a wide model plus i am not on the higher range of the weight recommendations, so it’s likely that the flex feel of the board will be closer to the Yes flex scale (6).
Considering this would still the Typo be a good pick for me? Or i might be better off with something a little softer like the Basic (which maybe won’t feel too soft for me and my size)
I swear to God this will be the last question. Which bindings among these do you think will pair better with the Basic and which with the Typo and which one would you pick for the price?
– Union Flite Pro (145€)
– Union STR (170€)
– Burton Mission (200€). Heard pretty good thing on these
– Union Strata (225€)
I am so sorry to make you this overly annoying questions, but i hope you got my point.
Thank you so much once again Nate, really! I wish you a good season!
Hi Thomas
Definitely worth thinking about and you’re right that a board will feel softer or stiffer depending on the weight you put on it. Being wide might make it feel marginally stiffer, but in my experience, it doesn’t affect the flex too greatly. But yes, on the 156W you will likely feel it stiffer than I felt the 155. I don’t think you’d feel it as stiff as 6/10, but something like 5 to 5.5 would be my guess, in that size. I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 157. As a beginner I would size down from that – ideally a little more than to 156, but being the smallest size in wide sizes, it’s enough. So, I think 156W will work, but yeah it will make things feel a little stiffer than what I felt it at. The Basic I rode in the 158, so that will be closer – don’t think you’d feel it more than 4.5 on that one.
In terms of bindings, if you were to go Basic, then you could put the Flite Pro on it but it’s a little too soft for the Typo, IMO. The STR and Mission would work on either board. The Strata a touch stiff for the Basic, but would work well on the Typo.
Hey Nate,
I currently have an OSL and I absolutely love it however I am looking for something that is just a little more stable and won’t wash out. My local shop has recommended these boards: salomon assassin, burton custom (Flying V and camber), Trice Pro, and Yes Typo. Typically ride groomers, side hits and want to wonder in the trees. I’ll pair it with a new set of Cartels (not as stiff as the previous generations).
What’s your thoughts ?
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
I found the Assassin is a little better in terms of edge hold in hard/icy conditions, so I think you’d get some improvement there, but otherwise, they are quite similar boards to have in the same quiver. If you’re looking to replace the OSL, then this is a viable option, though if you wanted to step up to even more hard/icy edge hold and have a similar board, then the YES Typo would be the ticket.
The Custom Flying V, IMO, is going to wash out as much in those conditions as the OSL, so I probably wouldn’t go there. The Custom Camber, so long as your a solid intermediate rider, is a very good all round board. It’s stiffer than the OSL and being full camber, it’s a more aggressive board, but it does have better edge hold, in my experience. Only real downside is that it’s not as good in powder, but if that’s not an issue, then it’s a good bet, if you’re ready for a step up.
The T Rice Pro isn’t something that I’ve loved in terms of short sharp turns, so it’s not typically something I recommend in the trees, so that would be my biggest concern going with that one.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the feedback! Did you have any other recommendations of your own? I can always check out some other shops. They also mentioned a Protosynthesis.
Hey Mike
Can you just let me know if you’re looking for good powder performance or if it’s not a big factor for you. When you’re in the trees are you typically going in there when there’s powder or not. And if you do see powder is it typically deep or just a couple of inches?
hi Nate,
I have been reading through all the comments and was unable to find someone of my size😢.
I’m a beginner to intermediate rider and am able to link turns, however i would like to maybe go faster than i have been and to try out some side hits and have some free style fun on the mountain. Turns may still be skidded sometimes and that’s what’s putting me off the DOA. Want to use this board for everything basically.
I am 73kg and 181cm tall. Size 9 boots on the Vans, and will be getting the Cartels with this board, this will be my first board☺️
Sorry my question is what sized board would you recommend, 156 or 158? Thank you so much!
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
I would be leaning 156 for you for this board. I would put your “standard all-mountain size” at around 158, but as a high end beginner/early intermediate it’s a good idea to take off some length. And the 156 wouldn’t be wrong for you even as a more advanced rider, so the 156 is the way to go, IMO.
And for your level and how you describe your riding, I think the OSL should be a good choice.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
Super late reply but I have narrowed it down to the Typo and Assassin to replace my OSL. I love the OSL but want to try something new. I am really thrown off by the assassins flex rating (4/5) it seems to be more of a 5 just from the feel in the shop. How is the Typo and Assassins flex compared to OSL? I am just looking for a slight upgrade in hold on hard pack and something that is a tiny bit stiffer so it won’t get thrown around as much in chunk/chunder.
Cheers,
Mike
Hi Mike
IMO the flex of the Assassin at 4/5 is way overaggrated – in my experience anyway. The Assassin Pro they rate at 5/5, which is also crazy, IMO. I felt the Assassin at 5/10 and the assassin pro at 6.5/10. All be it that I rode them in slightly smaller sizes than what I would typically ride them on. But still the Assassin no more than 6/10 in a larger size and Assassin Pro would be lucky to be stiffer than 7/10, from what I experienced with them anyway.
So, IMO, the Assassin quite similar in flex to the OSL. The Typo I felt more at a 4.5/10 flex. Again I rode it slightly undersized, but I would still say no more than a 5 or at very most 5.5.
So both pretty close to OSL flex-wise, IMO.
Hi,
I am 5,10 and 70kgs (155lbs) and Us boot size 10
Would you recommend the 154 or 156
Mostly ride in Australia so not the best conditions
Thanks
Hi Ethan
Thanks for your message. I would go 156 for your specs, assuming you’re at least a solid intermediate rider. Note that the OSL, in my experience, isn’t amazing in icy conditions, if you get those a lot. It’s not terrible in them either, but it’s average.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for all the extensive research you’ve done. It’s been 15 years since I’ve bought a board and your reviews have been extremely helpful.
Quick question about the OSL. I’m an expert level rider who spends most of my time on double black technical tree runs or steep narrow chutes. I was recommended this board by a local shop because of it’s weight and how easy it is to maneuver at low speeds.
My concern is this. I currently ride a 15 year old Gnu riders choice and can not count the number of times magnatraction has saved me in tough situations where conditions go from moderate to steep and icy. I’m worried that the OSL will fall short in these conditions compared to my old board. Does the camber profile of the OSL make up for the lack of magnatraction or should I look elsewhere?
I’m also curious why you gave the Yes standard such a high edge hold rating when it does not have their underbite tech.
Thanks again!
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
The OSL isn’t as good in icy conditions as the Rider’s Choice, IMO. I haven’t ridden a 15 year old Rider’s Choice, but overall the OSL is average in icy conditions, IMO.
The Standard doesn’t have underbite, but it has mid-bite. In my experience riding mid-bite boards they’ve been just as good in icy conditions as boards with underbite.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
At first – thank you for the reviews, it so helpful for all snowboard comunity.
I choosing bindings for my new board – OSL 152cm and think about union strata size M (boot size US8, thirtytwo lashed). But the length of the baseplate on Strata is large enough and I’m not sure if it’s will be good on the board. Or probably will be OK? Angles +15 -15.
Thank you and have a good day
Hi Arty
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think it would be pushing it. Ideally you don’t want any binding overhang (boot overhang is both OK and wanted). The OSL 152 is around 254mm at the inserts with the Strata M’s footbed being around 262mm, which would mean some binding overhang. With +15/-15 binding angles, that would certainly help to reduce that overhang. And in my experiments it reduces boot overhang by about 10mm for a 15 degree angle. No guarantee it would give you that much, but if it did, then you might be OK. The baseplate of the Strata M is 242mm, so that wouldn’t be overhanging (and the footbed (which is longer than the baseplate) is higher up, so it gives you a bit more leeway there too), so you might get away with it, but no guarantees. You would be close to fitting into a Strata size S, which would be fine on the board. But no guarantees that it would work for your boots. So there’s some risk of binding overhang there. If you’re worried about it might have to look at other bindings, but might be able to get away with it with the M – and might be able to fit in an S, but I haven’t tried an 8 in an S, so I can’t say either way.
Hope this helps
Thank you, Nate!
What alternative to Strata you can recomende for OSL?
Hi Arty
Burton Malavita, Genesis or Cartel would all work. Flux DS. K2 Lien AT. New Union Ultra or Union Force (much shorter baseplates than the Strata).
Nate,
New Ultra’s look great on the paper (probably, characteristics similar as Strata’s), but with one strange thing – there is no canting. Are you tested it?
Hi Arty
Yeah I tested the Ultra in the winter. No canting on it, which I thought was strange too, when most of their bindings do. I do the eye test for canting when I get bindings before I look at specs, and it didn’t seem to me to have any canting and then the specs confirmed it. I would prefer it with canting, but otherwise really nice bindings. Great shock absorption and board feel and good response. Respond really nice and slower speeds but can still lean into a carve in them (not to the extent of a stiffer binding on a carve, but still decent on a carve). So yeah, if you can get past the lack of canting, then a really nice binding and they haven’t priced it too badly either.
Hi Nate!
Yesterday I tried Strata bindings in size S with my boots (US8). The boot protrudes evenly ~3 cm from the back to the front above the base. Is this OK or too much? Straps fix the boot without problems.
Hi Arty
That much overhang over the binding is all good. Sounds like a good fit to me.
Hello
I can not speak English properly, I’m sorry about that
I am a beginner and I am going to buy this snowboard, but I do not know if it is suitable for a beginner or not. My height is 186 cm and weight is 86 kg. Shoe size is 29 cm. What board size is suitable for me?
Is outerspace living suitable for me or not?
thanks
sorry
my height 182 cm
Hi kianoosh
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t call the Outerspace Living a pure beginner board or anything. I would say it’s good for a high-end beginner bordering on intermediate. So, if you’ve already got some of the fundamentals down – linking turns that kind of thing, then it would be suitable, IMO. But if your a complete beginner then it’s not as suitable.
Size-wise, I would be looking at the 157W for your specs as a beginner.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate, thinking of getting some Nitro boots for my Outerspace living with Union Strata bindings . Do you think that the Nitro Team (rated 8 for flex) boot would be OK for it or too stiff? They have the Nitro rivals, supposedly flex 6.
Hi Dimiter
Thanks for your message.
Don’t currently test Nitro boots, so can’t say how stiff they feel in reality, but assuming they’re a try 8/10 flex, it’s borderline too stiff for that setup. That said, if anything is going to be stiffer, I prefer it to be the boots – and I think you get away with it, but I would be more inclined to go with the 6/10 flex option for that setup.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your website! I spent a lot of time reading many articles and learning a lot about snowboarding and the gear.
I’m 5ft 8, 140lbs, slim athletic build. Boot size 9. I would consider myself high beginner/lower intermediate. I just bought my first set of gear.
I’m in Southern California riding Big Bear Mountain mainly and Mammoth, with an annual trip to Denver (Copperhead). I mainly like to cruise, and am trying to learn how to carve aggressively while riding switch. Currently I really enjoy just bombing down black diamonds. I demo’d the OSL using +18/-6 and it seems to handle Bear mountain pretty well with carves, turning, and bombing down blacks. Although at slower speeds on the main crowded slope, I kept catching an edge.
I decided to go with the 2022 Capita OSL 152mm. 2023 Union Strata (new acid green ones) bindings. Thirtytwo TM-2 Boots.
I was going to get the Yes Standard but was advised to stay away because of their durability longterm. Did I get the right setup for my level?
Hi Michael
Thanks for your message. IMO, the OSL is a very good board for that high-end beginner/low end intermediate looking to progress, so I think you made a good choice. And the 152 is a great length for you, IMO. The only concern size-wise, is the width, which is quite narrow on the 152. That said, with size 9 boots, you’ll probably be OK with it. And the Thirty Two TM-2 I have found to be quite low profile, so I think you get away with it width-wise with those binding angles. But I’d say it’s right on the limit as to how narrow you’d want to go.
The Strata is a good match bindings-wise, IMO.
I can’t comment on the long term durability of the Standard, as I don’t own one and have only ever tested it over shorter periods of time (though sometimes quite well used demo models, which seem to have held up quite well). I’ve had my YES Greats for a few years now and that’s held up well. Though to be fair, I’ve probably only done roughly 20 days on it as it’s not my main control board, which is what I ride most of the time. Also, the Standard might be a bit of a stretch for high beginner/low intermediate. Might get away with it, but a little more board than something like the OSL.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, I am an intermediate, 175cm 5’10 175-185lbs range throughout year because of weight training. I was looking at getting the osl in 156 or 158. I’m size 10.5 boot. 28.5 mondo.
I have very strong legs and also freestyle bmx which has given me accelerated skill and understanding of spins and what not. I prefer a non wide to keep maneuverabitlity as the goal is to learn 360’s, some jumps, and all mountain riding, side hits, etc.
I am trying to get burton rulers but they are pretty rare to comeby so I was considering Photons with speedlacing unless you don’t recommend them. Hopeful I get lucky and find a pair of rulers. Would most likely ride +15/-15 for clearence.
Which board size do you think would be appropriate that would stick with me as I advance my riding skill and get better in the park as well?
Should I reconsider an 155W or 157W version?
Also would like to note that I live in Northeast in case that changes anything because of climate but will be visiting the west as somepoint as well
Thank you,
Sergio
Hi Sergio
Thanks for your message.
If you don’t plan on riding super fast and want to keep a more playful, freestyle approach to the mountain, then I think the 156 is best in terms of length. For width, it’s borderline for 10.5s, but with +15/-15 angles and low profile boots, like Burton, I think you should get away with it. If you were going to be laying any eurocarves or that type of thing, then I would probably lean more to the 155W. Otherwise I think you get away with the 156.
If you do want to ride fast on top of everything else, then I would go 158. It’s still not going to be a size that will be too big to spin (though the 156 will be easier to spin), but it will be a bit more stable at speed. So you sacrifice a little in terms of freestyle, but gain in terms of stability at speed. And get a little more leeway in terms of width. I would say still that if you were going to be leaning heavy eurocarves, that 157W would be the better bet. Note also that the 158 will float a little better in powder.
My instinct says 156 (or 155W depending on your carving goals), based on what you’re describing and as an intermediate rider, but 158 wouldn’t be a wrong choice either.
In my experience the OSL isn’t amazing in icy conditions, which I understand you can get quite a bit in the Northeast, but it’s not terrible either.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi,
I was interested in this board. But unsure about which length I should go for? 156cm or 158cm?
I am 175cm height, approximately 80kg and US9.5 boot. I am a low to mid intermediate. I love riding all mountain. Groomers, through the trees, carving whenever I can (not often), more relaxed cruiser and using the mountains natural terrain for jumps (side hits).
Hi Tung
Thanks for your message.
Taking into account your specs, your level and how you like to ride, I would go 156. 158 isn’t wrong by any means, and a good fit for your specs. But being that you like to ride more relaxed, do some sidehits and trees and your at that lower to mid intermediate level, I think the 156 is spot on.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
This readup is awesome thankyou.
Any advice for sizing, I’m 80kg 174cm, size US 10 boots. High beginner/ intermediate. Preferring trees/powder riding, yet to look into learning park. Probably more of a playful rider than aggressive.
Thanks,
Jakob!
Hi Jakob
Thanks for your message.
Based on what you’re describing, I think the 156 would be just right. You could certainly ride up to the 158, if you were a more advanced rider and/or aggressive. But given your level and being more of a playful rider, the 156 should work really well, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi! Looking for sizing help.
190lb, size 11, +18 -6 binding angles.
Early intermediate (2nd year) looking for an easy going, playful ride. Occasionally charging, but mostly turning following my daughter. Never will enter the park. I have a powder board.
What are we thinking? 158 is where I’m leaning but not sure about width.
Hi Eric
Thanks for your message.
Can you also let me know your height (weight and boot size – and style and ability level are all more important than height, but I like to take everything into account – likely it won’t change based on your height, but I like to be thorough).
If you were to try to squeeze on to a regular width, then yeah I’d say 158 is the way to go, given what you’re describing. I think you could certainly go 160 if you were looking to ride differently, but given you’re looking for an easy going ride and don’t need it to be awesome in powder, the 158 is the better choice. The 156 would even be a possibility, if you wanted it really playful and were riding park too, but I think 158 should work the best. If you need to go wide, then the 157W.
In terms of going wide or not, probably should go wide. The 158 is around 264mm at the inserts, which is narrower than I’d typically recommend for 11s. You might get away with it, but only if you’re not planning on doing any deep carves and only if your boots are low profile. With a back binding angle of -6, I think you’d really need to be riding pretty casually with low profile boots. But if that’s the case, then you should get away with it. What boots are you in.
If not, then 157W. It’s around 273mm at the inserts, which isn’t too wide for 11s by any means, but should certainly be wide enough.
Hope this helps with your decision
This is super helpful. I do think I need to go wide.
I have a 162 mid wide Arbor Element and a Yes Hybrid 157; overhang on both look solid and waist would be similar to the wide OSLs
As for boots, I’ve amassed a collection of Nikes (I work there). So definitely not low profile.
I’m 5’10.
Sounds like 157w for playful, 159w for more stability/charging. But given I have the long arbor and the slightly volume shifted Yes, I’m leaning 157.
Hi Eric
Thanks for the extra info. And I agree. Given the rest of your quiver and the boots, I think the 157W makes the most sense.
Nate, just want to let you know I went with the 157w and got my first laps with it today. Absolutely perfect fit. Loved it.
Hi Eric
Thanks for the update. And awesome to hear you are loving it!
Hi Nate,
I hope this finds you well,
I am thinking of getting the OuterSpace Living.
I am an intermediate going to advanced rider, 185cm and 80KG.
What would be your recommended size considering this? 158 or 160?
Thanks tons,
Tony
Hi Tony
Thanks for your message.
Based purely on height/weight specs and given you’re bordering on advanced, I’d be leaning towards 160. But if you could also let me know a couple more things.
1. Boot size.
2. How you like to ride. Trees? Powder? Park? Side-hits? Agreessive rider or more playful? Speed? Hard carving?
I like to take these things into account for sizing as well.
Hope this helps
Dear Nate,
How do you compare Capita Outerspace Living vs Capita DOA
In my country, my size filtered, only 2019 OSL and 2021 DOA available
DOA price is %25 higher
My concern is, do I lose a lot if I go for 2019 OSL instead of 2021 DOA
I don’t jump jib ollie or pop. Therefore I believe 2019 OSL is ok to go and save budget
Hi Ismail
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, if you’re not jumping or really bombing, then I think the OSL is probably the better bet, particularly if you can get it for cheaper. The DOA is better for jumps/better pop and is better when riding faster. But the OSL is better in powder and overall a little more versatile. An easy going ride too.
The 2019 OSL is a little different to the 2021 and 2022 models. But no massive changes. The 2020 model was the same as the 2019 model.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate!
Went for OSL 159W and had a good season with it, thanks for the advice
I have concern with the size of my board ;
My first boots were US 11.5 (29.5cm) but they were big for my feet
Then I changed for US 10.5 (28.5cm) and feels a lot better
The question is, do you think my board is now too wide for me?
As I read your reviews, my boots are one of the lowest footprint in the market!
+/- 15deg
US 10.5 Burton SLX
L Union Flite Pro
159W OSL
187cm
85kgs
Hi Ismail
Thanks for the update and glad that it went well for you.
With 10.5s, you should be able to get on the regular width for a lot of boards, in the length range you would be riding. Some might still be too narrow, but for a lot you should be able to go regular width. Personally, I like to ride as narrow as I can get away with, so long as there isn’t any boot drag on carves. With Burton boots, you will likely get away with regular width on even more boards (most) in your length range.
Length-wise, I would put you on roughly a 161 as your “standard all-mountain” length, but you can certainly size down a little from that, if you prefer to ride casually and/or have more maneuverability and/or you’re closer to a beginner or lower intermediate rider. So something in that 159-161 range would be a good bet. You could go a little longer too, if you like to really bomb fast.
Hope this helps
Hi
thanks for the review. I own a 2019 OSL i put on it the union flite pro binding and it’s a great combination. Really great Board. I find just a bit difficult pressing and doing butter tricks, do you think the Ultrafear will be better or it’s the same feeling. I’m looking for a Board to start riding park and doing Butters trick. I’ve already made a park run with the OSL and it was good but i would ask you if you think the Ultrafear will be a better board to learn park
Thanks for the answer
Hi Riccardo
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, for learning park, the Ultrafear is a really good option, IMO. And yeah, really easy to press. I find the OSL fine for butters, but the Ultrafear is certainly even more buttery. For more details check out my Ultrafear review. Also check out the Capita Scott Steven’s Pro. Similar board but even better, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! I already wrote a comment but I can’t see it so now sure if there is some kind of delay or there was a problem so I’m writing you again 🙂
First of all, I’d like to appreciate all the work you are doing on your site! The information here is truly remarkable and your response to people’s questions is amazing!
I consider myself a high-beginner or low-intermediate level. I feel comfortable on most slopes (except very stip blacks). I would now like to push into doing some more freestyling and start working on riding switch. Until now I snowboarded for 3 seasons, riding around 7 days each. I rented equipment and now feel it’s time to buy my own for the first time. After doing the research I found the outerspace living to be a good fit for my needs.
I’m 169cm tall, weigh around 64kg, size 8-8.5. Would you suggest going for the 150 or the 152?
I’m also planning to buy Union bindings, do you any suggestions on any specific model and size? From what I’ve read, the Force or Strata size M might right.
Thanks a lot!
Hi Eyal
Thanks for your messages (I got both – they just need to be moderated before being published).
Yeah, unfortunately I don’t currently test Bataleon boards, so can’t really help there. I think the OSL will certainly work well for what you’re describing though. I would be leaning 150, but both the 150 and 152 would certainly work. But particularly if you’re going to be focusing more on freestyle, I would be leaning 150.
For bindings, the Force and Strata would certainly be a good match to the OSL – and the Contact Pro would certainly work too. However I wouldn’t go Strata as the baseplate is probably too long for that board (the baseplate on the Strata M is longer than on most bindings). The Force M and Contact Pro M would be a good fit for both board and boots though. If you want a more freestyle friendly binding, then I would go Contact Pro. If you’re looking for more response, then the Force.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thank you so much for your response! I ended up buying the 152 with the Force bindings.
Thanks again!
You’re very welcome Eyal. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get, once you’ve had a chance to get them out on snow. Happy riding!
I will!
Another small question, do you think the burton ruler boots are a good fit for my setup?
Hi Eyal
Yeah, I think they are a really good match flex-wise to the rest of your setup. Assuming they fit you well, I think they’re a good bet.
Hi Nate!
First of all, I would like to appreciate all the work you have done on this site! I’m in the process of buying my own equipment for the first time and all of the information here is absolutely amazing.
I consider myself a high beginner level or low intermediate – comfortable on the slopes but still struggling on powder and freestyling. My current aim is to progress in riding switch and freestyling on the slopes and a little bit of park.
After reading a lot, I feel that the outerspace living might be the right for me. I’m still struggling to choose between this or the Bataleon fun-kink, although I haven’t seen reviews on your site about Bataleon boards so I’m not sure if you can help me with that decision 🙂
I’m 169cm tall and weigh about 64kg. My foot size is 8. Should I go with the 150 or 152 board? I’m also planning on buying Union bindings for it, what model/size would you suggest?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Nate
I’ve been doing my research for my new board on your site but this really caught my attention. I’m 165lbs 5’5 currently running Burton Custom flying v 154. Im comfortable doing small to medium jumps and board slides (i prefer doing jumps). I board mostly in NY and Vermont and sometimes the mountain gets icy. I wanted to switch to OSL maybe 150-152, I feel like my custom is a little stiff to do butters and it feels long when i do 180s, basically wanted something a little more playful. And another thing is how well do you think it’ll do in conditions up here. Or should i hold onto the custom for the meantime.
Appreciate the content
Hi Leo
Thanks for your message.
I could definitely get behind you sizing down to either the 150 or 152 in the OSL, particularly if you want to focus on your freestyle game. But if you could let me know your boot size, just to confirm it’s appropriate and help determine if the 150 or 152 would be the better bet.
I wouldn’t say that the OSL is amazing in icy conditions, but I would say that it’s better than the Custom Flying V, in my experience. Keep the edges sharpened and I think you’d be fine on it, but I wouldn’t call it a naturally good in icy conditions board.
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate thanks for the reply! I definitely want to focus and improve more on freestyle. I currently have the old burton imprints3 size 8.5 with medium union strata +12/-12
Hi Leo
I think as a replacement for your Custom Flying V, the 152 is going to be a more all-round size for you, but still something that’s easier to butter and spin in comparison, IMO. But you could also go 150, if really wanted to maximize the likes of butters/spins.
One thing to consider is the width though. In those sizes the OSL gets quite narrow. You shouldn’t have any issues boots-wise. In fact I think you’ll appreciate the narrower width in terms of boots. The only issue might be the bindings. The Strata have quite a long baseplate in comparison to other medium bindings. So you might have a small amount of binding overhang (boot overhang, up to a certain amount is good, but not so much binding overhang). The top of the footbed on the M strata is around 26.2cm and the width of the 150 OSL at the inserts is around 25.3cm. The one saving grace might be that the actual baseplate (underside) is 24.2cm. So the underside will be inside the edges, and since the top of the footbed is higher up there is less risk of drag. So you might be fine, but just something to consider in terms of the width of the OSL in the 150 and 152 sizes.
Hi Nate just went to my local shop unfortunately the OSL got sold out. Now the owner is pushing me to get 148 Ride Twinpig or 151 Rome Agent. Would you recommend them over OSL or should i just wait for next year which I do not mind waiting? Thanks again really appreciate your time.
Hi Leo
I don’t test Rome boards currently, so I can’t say much about the Agent. From what I know of it, it’s a more aggressive ride than something like the OSL.
I haven’t ridden the Twinpig either, but based on other similar Ride boards and what I know of the Twinpig, I think it would probably work for what you’re describing. The only question would be sizing. It’s a really wide board, even in the 148 it’s quite wide for your foot size. It’s designed that way, and you are sizing down from what you’d typically ride, so that’s good. It’s just a question of whether you will like the wide board feel from it, even with that size down. And also whether sizing down to more like 146 would have worked better (if it existed) for this board. The 142 is too small though, IMO.
Good evening. Thank you for the great review. I am 5’7″ about 175. I am an athletic beginner. I normally ride once a year for about 3 or 4 days. This is my first board that I am buying. Typically ride groomers. My boot size is 11.5. I’m thinking about buying a 155W to fit my boot size and weight. Do you think this is a good fit and what bindings do you think I should get with this board? Right now I have Vans OG high standard boots. However, I am thinking about getting a pair of adidas tactical lexicon ADV or adidas samba ADV. Thank you in advanced for the help.
Hi JT
Thanks for your message.
As an athletic beginner, I think the OSL would be a good choice – and 155W is spot on size-wise, IMO.
Adidas Tactical ADV would work with the board. A little stiffer than I’d typically go for a beginner, but as an athletic beginner, I think you’ll likely be fine. The Samba subtly softer, if you wanted a slightly more forgiving option (Tactical ADV not super stiff by any means, but I’d say 6/10 versus 5/10 on the Samba).
For bindings, I’d look at something around that 5/10 or 6/10 flex too. Something from one of these in that flex range would be a good bet, IMO:
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thankful for the reviews and I’m also really impressed with how thoughtfully and insightfully you reply to everyone commenting for advice, so I thought I’d hit you up too. Hoping you can help me with a little dilemma where I’ve purchased an OSL but then found a Mercury in a sale and am wondering whether I’ve just bought a poor man’s Mercury when I could actually have afforded the real deal.
My favourite thing is to go fast, hit resort features and tear up sidecountry where available, but one thing that consoles me regarding my ownership of an OSL is that for the foreseeable future I’ll probably only be riding in Australia where there isn’t a whole lot of vertical or deep snow so I do end up messing around on the flat and in the park a bit and wanting a playful board that isn’t too aggressive. Can you affirm my situation–is there some merit to opting for the softer, less catchy OSL? Or should I sell this thing at all costs while it’s unmounted and get that Mercury? I’m an advanced rider and don’t want to miss out on fun times charging Australia’s finest steep crud, and the more I read the more it seems like that board is the perfect quiver killer for this kind of thing, and that it actually butters and rides park well to boot.
I guess I’m hoping to hear that the OSL will be able to charge steep stuff decently and actually bring something to the table when it comes time to buttering lazily around our many bunny slopes, but please don’t hesitate to lay the truth straight on me.
Thanks heaps!
Hi Joey
Thanks for your message.
I can feel your dilemma for sure!
I wouldn’t call the Mercury playful, so for buttering around and riding more lazy and in the park and riding more playfully, the OSL is the better bet, IMO. The Mercury can handle the park pretty well but, IMO, it’s better for bigger features more so than smaller more playful park riding. I wasn’t a big fan of it for boxes/rails etc – I would prefer the OSL for that. In terms of butterability, it butters pretty well considering how well it bombs, but I wouldn’t say it’s a super buttery board. I would say just above average for buttering (3/5). OSL better for buttering (4/5), IMO.
So for those things, the OSL will, I think, treat you better than the Mercury would…BUT… the Mercury is definitely a harder charger – for laying trenches and bombing at speed it is definitely a step above. And it’s a little better in powder too. The OSL isn’t bad in those areas, I wouldn’t say, but it is a step down from the Mercury.
For more details to compare, check out my Mercury Review
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
You’re a legend, Nate. Thank you 🙂
Thanks Man! And you’re very welcome.
Hi, Nate. I just bought a 2021 Capita OSL 155W and was looking for advice on what bindings I should try to get. I started snowboarding this year and have gotten confident enough to the point where I thought that the purchase would be worthwhile. I enjoy doing a little bit of everything on the mountain with a focus on eventually doing some stuff in the park. I would greatly appreciate your input. I’m also looking to potentially upgrade bootwise depending on how it feels while riding.
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 145 lbs
Boot Size: 10.5 -Burton Moto
Hi Zachary
Thanks for your message.
I would check out the following, and would be leaning towards something around 5/10 flex. Firstly, so that’s it a good match to the board whilst still being good for your ability, and for the riding your describing. Since you want to progress to riding in the park, I’d look for something with good board feel too. You could go to 6/10 flex too for the board, and it wouldn’t make too much difference to your style/ability, but ideally 5/10, IMO.
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Love your reviews and advice on equipment. It has giving me great insight on what to buy for my first gear.
I am certain that i want to get the Capita OSL but not sure about which size.
My stats:
Length: 6ft1 (186cm)
Weight: 176lbs (80kg)
shoe size: 10.5us? (44 eu size, 28cm mondo)
Planning to get the burton ruler at my boots which according to their chart i should get a size 10us. Probably also will order a size 10.5 and see which fits best.
I am still a beginner so would pick a board on the shorter side of the range for me so either 156 or the 157w.
Do you think the 156 will be too narrow for me? or should i play safe and get the 157w? I think the 155w might be too short for me and the 158 a bit too long for my skill and style. mainly ride all mountain but also small jumps at the park and would like to have playfull board.
I read in your review that the burton ruler has a slightly reduced footprint and a higher toe bevel. Would this be enough to avoid toe and heel drag if i would get the 156? I am not that of an agressive rider (yet).
i will set my both my bindings at either 12 or 15 by the way.
Hope to hear from you soon man!
P.S. should i get Union Force bindings or Burton Missions? Definitly size L right?
Cheers,
Wessel
Hi Wessel
Thanks for your message.
I think the 156 is going to be your best bet. And width-wise I think you should be fine on it. Certainly fine if you’re in 10s, but even with 10.5s, I think you get away with it, particularly with those binding angles and with the lower profile boots and particularly considering you’re not riding that aggressively. But even if you get a little more aggressive as you progress I think you get away with it given all the other factors.
In terms of bindings, I would probably go Force over Mission personally, but they would both certainly work with the OSL. The Mission are a little softer flexing overall, IMO, which might be more suitable to your level, but they’re subtly softer.
I would go M for the Mission regardless of if you end up in 10 or 10.5. And for the Force I would definitely go M with a 10. With a 10.5 you could go either – with a Burton 10.5, you should be all good in the M – and the M Force is likely to be a better match for the board. If you were to go 157W for the board, then I would say go L for both (because your boots will fit in both), but for for the 156, I would go M, certainly for the Force, as it has a longer baseplate.
Hope this helps
Hello,
I’m planning to buy an outerspace board and a pair of bindings.
I’m level intermediate-advanced, and I enjoy doing a little bit of everything (from off piste to snow park).
I weight 62kg and I’m 181cm tall. My boot size is a us 11 (Salomon boa). My feet is 27.8 cm long.
I’m doubting about what size I should get. I’m considering 154, 156 and 155 wide.
Thanks in advance,
Jorge
Hi Jorge
Thanks for your message.
I would go 155W for you. Strictly based height/weight, it would be more of a weigh up between 152 and 154 for me, but given your boot size, the 155W is the best bet. The 154, and even the 156 would be too narrow, IMO.
Hope this helps
Nate,
I am a beginner / intermediate rider starting to prepare for end of season deals and getting my own board. I am 6’2″ 220 lbs with a size 12 Burton moto boot. I am interested in the OSL but the largest size is 159W. Is the performance of this board going to be affected by my weight?
Come to think of it, I’m having trouble finding many all-mtn / freestyle boards above 160? Is this class of board generally going to run a few cm shorter than the standard 163-165 cm recommendation I see?
I appreciate any advice you can offer!
Hi John
Thanks for your message.
With freestyle and all-mountain-freestyle (to a lesser extent than freestyle), you do tend to ride them a little shorter, and so the max size tends to be smaller. Part of the reason is that they tend to have less size outside the contact points – i.e. shorter nose/tail.
For your specs as a beginner/intermediate, going for an all-mountain freestyle board, I think something around 160-162 would be appropriate, so the 159W isn’t too far off.
But yeah generally speaking if you’re riding something that’s small for your weight, the board will feel softer flexing and more playful than it would for someone with a lighter weight or than it would in a bigger size.
For some other all-mountain-freestyle options in that 160-163 size range, you could look at:
GNU Rider’s Choice 162W
Lib Tech Box Knife 160W
Never Summer Proto Synthesis 160X
Salomon Assassin 163W
A little above high-end beginner/low intermediate, but not way off. I’d say the Rider’s Choice would there would be the most beginner/intermediate appropriate.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Love your site here! Looking to purchase the outer space living but often hit icy conditions. This is for an intermediate rider (maybe a 6) mostly groomer but wants to progress in the park at the end of the day. Is there a board similar to the OSL that’s better suitable for icy conditions?
Hi Larry
Thanks for your message.
I would call the OSL an all-mountain-freestyle board, but it’s pretty close to “all-mountain” as well, so something from one of the following, would be your best bet, IMO:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
The ones labelled with “HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION” are the best in icy conditions, IMO, but there are others there that are still good and just a step down, like the Slash Brainstorm, Nitro Team Gullwing, Jones Mountain Twin, Salomon Assassin, Never Summer Proto Synthesis. If you want to be optimal in hard/icy conditions, then go with a “HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION: otherwise those are good too.
If you’re looking to keep things centered/twin, then the 2nd list there is the way to go.
As an intermediate level 6, I think you should be fine with a majority of the boards on those list. If you were looking for more like low intermediate, then the Typo, Brainstorm are the most easy going for low intermediate riding – and I would add the Never Summer Snowtrooper to that list. But I don’t think that would be a thing with level 6, though those boards are still an option for what you’re describing.
I know that’s a lot of options – let me know if you need any help narrowing them down. If you’re having trouble narrowing them down, sizing can sometimes help too – some boards there may be less than ideal sizing, depending on your needs. I would be happy to give a sizing opinion too, if needed.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the excellent work!
I’m looking to buy the Outerspace Living (2021) but not sure which size to go for (150 or 152)
I’d say I’m high level beginner to low level intermediate at the moment
167 cm
128 lbs
U.S. boot size 8 Ride Lasso
I got Burton Freestyle Re:Flex size M (-10 +10 )
I’m also thinking to pair this with some union bindings, what do you suggest? and what size would be better for me M or S?
Thank you!
Hi Johann
Thanks for your message.
I think the 150 is the best length for you – and also should be a really good width for your boots.
In terms of Union bindings, if you’re on a budget, the STR are a good match and really good value. If you want to step up the quality a little, then the Force or Strata would also be a good match with the OSL, IMO.
Size-wise for Union Bindings, with size 8 Rides, I would say probably M, but be careful with the Strata M as it has quite a long baseplate and may not fit that well on the OSL 150 – i.e. could be too long for the width of the board. You should be fine with the M Force and M STR though in that sense. I think you probably could get into an S, but I haven’t ever tried 8s in an S, so I couldn’t say for sure. But I have ridden 10.5s in M Union bindings without issues, which is 1/2 a size higher than they recommend for it. So my guess is that you would be fine in an S, but no guarantees.
Hope this helps
Hey man, I know there are a lot of similar comments but I’m buying my first board and would love an opinion on size. I’m 5’8, 145, size 9 boot. Intermediate rider. Live in southern california so a lot of park runs. Really trying to decide between the 152 or the 154? Thanks for the help
Hi Kaden
Thanks for your message.
Definitely see your debate as both sizes are certainly doable for you. Length-wise I would be leaning 152, particularly if you’re doing a lot of park runs. The only question then is width, with the 152 being quite a bit narrower.
I think if you ride with binding angles like +15/-15 that kind of thing – something with a decent amount of angle on the back foot, then I think you probably get away with the width on the 152. But it will also depend on how bulky your boots are (what’s the brand/model of your boots?) and how much you like to lean into a carve.
I think if you really like to lean hard into carves and have bulky boots, then it’s going to be too narrow. But with +15/-15 angles, lower profile boots, I think you would be fine.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, first of all thanks for the review it helped me a lot.
Im 5’9, weigh around 180 pounds and my boot size is 10 or 10.5 depending on the boot.
The outer space living will be my only board, so i will take it everywhere from park to powder. I do like to carve and go on edge quite hard so i do want to avoid toe drag at all costs. Technically 158 seems like the perfect size lengthwise, since i do spend 20-30 percent of my time in the park but im afraid that the width is too narrow (25.3 cm waist). Going up to 160 would probably solve my width problem, but isn’t great for freestyling or buttering i guess. Therefore I started thinking about the 157 wide. Do you think that’d be overkill width wise? I figured it might give me a bit of extra float and maybe even stabilize in higher speeds. If you could help me with the decision i’d really appreciate it; I’m probably overthinking a bit.
Thanks,
Haro
Sorry for commenting twice. For some reason I couldnt see the first one before so I thought it didnt work.
Hi Haro
Thanks for your messages. I got both, but they just go into moderation before being published.
I get your dilemma here for sure. I agree that around that 157, 158 is a good length for your specs and how you describe your riding. Personally I don’t like going wide unless I have to (size 10 boots), but some with 10s do like going wide – and 10.5s is certainly on the cuff. With 10s, I would be very comfortable with the 264mm width at inserts on the OSL 158, particularly with low profile boots and +15/-15 binding angles or similar. However with 10.5s it becomes less comfortable – particularly with different angles or non-low-profile boots, given that you want to really lean into your carves.
The 157W (roughly 273mm at inserts) isn’t ultra wide for 10.5s or anything definitely doable. I wouldn’t opt to go that wide personally but it’s certainly not crazy wide or anything. The 158 would certainly be more agile, but the 157W would give you a little more float in pow and a touch more stability – but if you’re on edge when charging, then that extra width won’t make any difference to stability, but if you’re flat basing at speed, then it would add a little – and make for a slightly more stable landing platform for jumps. And certainly no risk of boot drag, IMO. So, I think if you’re willing to take a bit of a hit on maneuverability, it could work for you for sure.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Im pretty sold on this after reading some reviews. Im 200lbs with a size 10 k2 maysis boot. Should I go 158 or 160? Bindings are ducked at 15-15 . Looking for a playful daily driver, Tahoe.
How can I find the old review where you compared the two sizes?
Hi Ed
Scroll to bottom of the review and there is a tab there that says “PAST REVIEWS OF THE OUTERSPACE LIVING” which should turn orange when you hover over it. Click on that and it will expand the past reviews for the OSL.
Thank you! Do you think 158 or 160 for 200lbs size 10 k2 maysis and I already have a pow board
Hi Ed
Thanks for your messages.
A tight call between those 2 sizes, IMO, given that you’re looking for a playful daily driver and already have a pow board. Without those things, I’d say definitely 160, but because of those things, the 158 becomes an option. I think it really depends on how playful you want it to be and how much stability at speed you want. If you feel you’re not really going to ride it too fast and can sacrifice a little in terms of stability at speed, then the 158 might be a good option and give you a little more agility, playfulness, butterability and jib-ability. But if you still want to be able to open it out and bomb to an extent, then the 160 might be the better bet. I’d say on the 158 you might want to drop the speed score down 3/5, just to put that into some perspective.
Width-wise, I think you should be fine on either with 10s at +15/-15
Hope this helps with your decision
Awesome thank you!
You’re very welcome Ed
Think I will go 160 just cause I want to use it daily at squaw/alpental
Hi Nate,
I’m debating on purchasing the OSL in either 154 or 156.
I’m 5’9″, 155lb, size 9 boot. I’m an intermediate rider trying to progress with 360 spins/butters and small/medium features but also don’t want to sacrifice all mountain carving ability. I’ve been using a 159 board for the last 4 seasons so I’d probably be fine on the 156, but the 154 might also help me get those spins around easier.
What would you recommend?
Hi Don
Thanks for your message.
Those are the definitely the 2 sizes I would consider for you, and I don’t think there’s a wrong choice there. Before you mentioned the 159, I was thinking 154 for your specs – and I think I’m still leaning that way. But given that you’re used to a 159, it makes it a tougher choice. Whether you’ll find it on the smaller side for carving/bombing. Purely on your specs, I would say go 154 – especially given that you want to be buttering doing 3s etc. But if you’re used to a 159, the 156 is going to feel easier for those things anyway. If you could let me know what board the 159 is, that would help. Like if it’s quite a stiff or technical board (I’m guessing it’s probably not as an intermediate), then going from a stiffer 159 down to a softer 154 might feel like too much, but might be doable if it’s a more mellow 159.
Hi Nate, thanks for the quick response! I really appreciate the feedback.
My 159 board is a 2015 Elan Inverse, a soft freestyle camber board that I got a decent deal on but didn’t realize that 159 might be a bit long for me to butter/spin. The OSL stood out to me due to the reverse camber in the nose and tail, so I was thinking it would also be easier to spin just from the profile difference alone. I was thinking a 156 would be a good trade off between maneuverability and edge hold, but if the 154 would be better overall for my specs then I’m sure I could learn to adapt to it as well. What do you think?
I just went to measure my board and apparently I was mistaken. The Elan board I have is actually 155, so size wise it’s right in the middle of the two.
Hi Don
In that case, I would go 154
Hi Nate,
Wanting to purchase the Outerspace Living. I am 5”7 at 150lbs with a size 8 boot. Really more focused on free riding right now with a little bit of jumps. Intermediate level rider, and unfortunately all that is available in my area is a size at 156cm, would that be a stretch? What size board would you recommend?
Thanks!
Hi Gabe
Thanks for your message.
I think the 156 is getting a bit big for you, given the combination of both the length and width. For the OSL I would be debating between 154 and 152 for you. And 152 would probably be the best fit, particularly for an intermediate level. But I think the 154 would certainly work too, especially given that you’re more freeride focused, so I think that would be a reasonable option too. The 156 is probably pushing it too big though, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate, I’m having some trouble deciding between the Capita Outerspace Living (156) and the Burton Process Flying V (155 or 157). Looking for an all mountain board that can rip around groomers pop and play around the resort hitting all those natural features. From what I can see these 2 boards are similar, any advise on this?
I’m 182cm , 155lb. size 9.5 boots. intermediate rider and I’m planning to put Burton Cartels on the board.
Cheers!
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
There are certainly some things about them that are similar but quite different in some ways too.
Probably the main difference is feel. The Process Flying V has a much looser feel vs a more stable feel on the Outerspace Living. There are certainly other differences, but that’s what I would weigh up first and foremost choosing between the 2. Do you think you’d prefer a looser/surfier feeling ride, or a more stable ride. Think of a scale from loose to stable to locked in. So the OSL isn’t locked in at all, but it’s not loose either.
Size-wise, for your specs and for what you’re describing, I think you’re in the right place looking at 156 for OSL and 155 or 157 for the Process Flying V. I’d be leaning towards 155 for the Process Flying V.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the reply Nate. If conditions were more firm packed snow than powder days what would you take as your day to day? I used to ride a custom flying V and enjoyed it alot but I’m sure I’d get used to the capita and it sounds like the the OSL could be a better board for firmer conditions.
Cheers.
Hi Ryan
Yeah I would take the OSL for firmer conditions over the Process Flying V. I would say neither are excellent for icy conditions, but the OSL fine for firm conditions and that little bit better for firm or hard/icy conditions than the Process Flying V, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Just finished my first season of snowboarding (thanks to covid-19) and I am planning to buy the Outerspace living as my first board. I am 6’2″ 180lbs and size 11 boot (K2). Currently split about 90/10 between free-ride and park. What size board would you recommend based on this profile? The rental I was given this year was 158W ( not sure on exact width). Do you also have a binding recommendation to pair with this board?
Thanks,
Brian
Hi Brian
Thanks for your message.
I would be weighing up between the 157W and 159W for you. There’s a chance you could squeeze on the 158, but it would be risky and with K2 boots not typically being particularly low profile, I personally wouldn’t risk going that narrow on 11s. I don’t think the 157W or 159W are going to feel super wide for 11s, so I think they’re a good bet. They are on the wider side of the range for 11s but still within range, IMO, and for that reason, I would be leaning towards the 157W, as you’re taking a little off in terms of length (and a small amount in terms of width) for that slightly wider platform.
In terms of bindings, I would be looking to pair it with something around a 5/10 or 6/10 flex. Given that you’ve just had 1 season, then probably lean more towards that 5/10 flex. You can check out the following for some great options in that flex range. If you don’t see anything there that you like, is available or suits your budget, let me know and I can give you some other options:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hello Nate.I want to ask u something…
I have a capita osl.I want to buy a edge tuner. Which angle should i buy? 90 89 88??? Plz answer me.
Hi Adem
I would say that probably a 90 degree is probably the way you want to go. By going to 89, 88 or that kind of thing you’re going to get a more aggressive ride. It will add to edge hold, but can make your ride feel more cathcy. Unless you really know that you want that more aggressive carving ride, and you’re happy to risk making it easier to catch an edge, then I probably wouldn’t go under that 90 degree angle.
I’m not an expert in this area, but I would refer to the following if you want to learn more details on this subject:
Snomie – Get More From Your Snowboard’s Edges – How To Bevel & Sharpen
Edge Beveling: What’s Your Angle?
Hi Nate,
I’m 5’8” 160 lbs and looking to get a OSL on sale. Generally high beginner-intermediate (90% all mountain/10% park) Wondering whether 154 or 156 is better for me.
Hi Rahul
Thanks for your message.
As a high-end beginner going on intermediate I think the best size for the OSL for you would be the 154. But if you could also let me know your boot size, to make sure that it would appropriate width-wise.
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for your great content. I ended up buying OSL for my first ever beginner snowboarding trip and I hope you can help me with some questions after 11 days of (admittedly beginner) riding.
1. I’m 184 cm/76 kg with Burton Ruler US11/UK10/29cm (wide) boots using Union Contact Pro L bindings. I chose the 158 due to concerns of the board width regarding my boot size. I’ve started from 15/-15 to 15/-6 to 15/0 and then back to 18/-18 so I’m still experimenting with my angles. Do you think there’s an OSL that’s more suitably sized for me in my case?
2. Do you think the reference stance width of this board is a little too wide? I felt my legs tiring out quickly after the first few days but then it got better after I reduced my stance width to the minimum allowed by the board.
Obviously I’m still trying to “grow” into the board and my above experiences may be just me still trying to get used to things. Hence I would appreciate your comments.
Oh and I do find the Contact Pros a bit too soft already lol.
Hi Phil
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of the bindings, I would say something a touch stiffer than the Contact Pros would be a better match with the OSL. Not a bad match, but to be ideal, a little stiffer would work better, IMO.
Size-wise, I think something around 155, 156 would be a better length for you. With 11s, the 156 is a bit too narrow. Even the 158 is borderline, particularly as you become more advanced and start getting higher on your edges. I think the 155W would have been the best size for you. A good length and good width, IMO.
I wouldn’t say that the reference stance width is too wide for the board. However, stance width is personal preference, so you won’t necessarily be the most comfortable on the reference stance. If you find that narrower stance more comfortable, then that’s all good.
One other thing to note, is that the OSL is a little stiffer than I would typically recommend for a beginner, so it will take more to get used to vs a softer, more beginner friendly option. So you’ve got to take that into account too.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I found some time to take some measurements on my angles and overhangs based on your article and these are what I’ve got:
Rear bindings at 0 / reference stance width:
Toe side:
– Boot overhang: 1.4 cm
– Angle: ~80°
Heel side:
– Boot overhang: 3.2 cm
– Angle: ~70°
Rear bindings at -15 / reference stance width:
Toe side:
– Boot overhang: 1.2 cm
– Angle: ~81°
Heel side:
– Boot overhang: 2.7 cm
– Angle: ~73°
Assuming my measurements were done correctly, do the readings suggest there will be minimal chances of encountering boot drag on my board?
One thing I noticed is the impact points are quite high up due to the shape of my Burton Rulers. In fact at the heel side, the impact point was actually on the heel cup of the Contact Pro instead of the boot.
Hi Phil
Yeah, I think you would be all good with those angles. No issues whatsoever there, IMO.
One other thing you could try, if it’s doable, is if you tried to even up the heel and toe overhang. If you haven’t already moved the heel cup forward as far as it can go, you could try moving the heel cup in (which you can do on Union bindings) to give you a bit more overhang on the toe and a little less on the heel. All good there – if you have more overhang on one or the other, it’s better to be on the heel, but if it’s possible to get your boots a little more centered, that’s worth a try.
Hi Nate,
I went ahead and moved the heel cup forward as much as it can go (position 0) and here are the new readings
Rear bindings at 0 / reference stance width:
Toe side:
– Boot overhang: 1.8 cm
– Angle: ~75°
Heel side:
– Boot overhang: 2.7 cm
– Angle: ~72°
Rear bindings at -15 / reference stance width:
Toe side:
– Boot overhang: 1.7 cm
– Angle: ~77°
Heel side:
– Boot overhang: 2.2 cm
– Angle: ~75°
So things are certainly more centered now though there’s a trade-off with a larger loss in toe-side angle vs a smaller gain heel-side. I guess it’s definitely more than adequate for me at my current level (just about entered Intermediate 5 after 11 days of riding, based on your described skill levels) and I hope this current setup will do it for me as I progress in the short/medium term.
Thanks so much for your wealth of information on this website of yours. It certainly helped me a lot, especially at such an early stage, in understanding and appreciating my equipment better.
You’re very welcome Phil.
That looks better to me. I would be very surprised if you had any issues with those angles.
Hi,
I want to buy OSL. I will be my first snowboard, after 5 years of renting.
I’m 174cm, 64kg, boot size US8, 90% All-Mtn, 10% Freestyle.
I want to try buttering and small jumps.
I’m choosing between 152 and 154 Capita OSL
But 152 looks a little bit narrow. Will it be a problem?
Thanks in advance
Hi Andrii
Thanks for your message.
I would go 152 for your specs and what you’re describing. The 154 isn’t completely out of reach either, particularly if you identify as an advanced rider. It’s a possibility but I think the 152 is a slightly better choice for your specs/what you’re describing.
The width should be good for 8s. It’s on the narrower side but I don’t think you should have any issues with 8s. But if you could also let me know the make, model and year of your boots and also your typical binding angles that would be great.
Hope this helps with your decision
HI, thanks for so quick response.
I plan to buy Salomon Lasso 2020. Will it suit this board?
I tried only +15/-6
Hi Andrii
I haven’t heard of a Salomon Lasso. I know of a Ride Lasso. Is that what you meant? Where I am there isn’t a Salomon Lasso, but sometimes in different countries, things can be named differently, but I can’t seem to find any info on a Salomon Lasso. If it is a ride Lasso, then I think you should be fine. They are low profile boots. If it’s a Salomon boot, then they aren’t typically low profile (although some of their new ones are now).
If it’s the Ride Lasso, then that’s a good match for the OSL, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Yes, it’s my mistake. I meant Ride Lasso.
What do you think about binding Flow Fuse 2020?
Just in case: 154 OSL won’t be too wide?
Thanks
Hi Andrii
I haven’t tested the Flow Fuse, so I can’t really say much about it, unfortunately.
In terms of going 154 OSL, it won’t be too wide. It’s on the wider end for 8s, but definitely doable.
Hi Nate,
I’m 68 kg, 180 cm high and size 8.5 boot. I’m an intermediate snowboarder and I’m looking for all mountain freestyle board (70/30 ride/butter small jump).
What size would you recommend?
Hi Barth
Thanks for your message.
I think the 154 would be right on for your specs/ability/how you ride. You could go 156 too, but I think in terms of the combination of length and width would be just bigger than ideal. The 152 too short, IMO. But the 154 I think is the sweet spot for you. Of course, if you’re used to riding considerably longer or shorter, take that into account, but based on what you’re describing, I’d definitely go 154.
Hope this helps with your decision
I am grateful for your quick response and help in choosing the right size. I ordered OSL 154. Thanks
You’re very welcome Barth. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new deck! 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
Hi Nate,
I’m 160 lbs, 5’7, boot 8.5, low – mid intermediate, 90% All-Mtn, 10% Freestyle.
I’ve been riding a Horrorscope 152 (my first board) but would like more of an all-mtn board. Would you recommend the Outer Space 154 or 156?
Thanks!
Hi Will
Thanks for your message. Apologies for the slow response – a bit behind after vacation.
I think the 154 would be the best bet for your specs, level and how you describe your riding. You could ride the 156, but I think the 154 is a slightly better length/width for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for your response!
As a progressing intermediate looking for an all mountain board (since my horrorscope can be my park), is there a large difference between the two sizes? I ask because there is a deal on the 156 vs 154.
Hi Will
I have found that 2cm isn’t a massive difference, but it’s still a noticeable one. It’s subtle but it’s certainly there. Like I said, the 156 is doable – but the 154 is more ideal, IMO. One advantage of going 156 is that you have a bigger difference size-wise in your quiver. The Horrorscope is already quite a different board though, so even going 154 gives you difference there. So yeah, ideally 154, but 156 is doable for you, IMO. If you want more detail on the differences between 2 sizes, I actually tested the 156 vs the 158 in a past review – if you scroll to the bottom of this review and click on the “past reviews of the OSL” tab, you can see my old review where I compare the 2 sizes. Towards the end of the “details” section there’s some notes on the 156 vs 158.
Hello Nate i want to ask u i have a rossignol hc2000 bindings but i want to buy a new one can u give me a lot of advice?Thx nate u are very good man.
Sorry..I have outerspace living 2019(black)
Hi Adem
For the OSL, I would look at something around the 5/10 to 6/10 flex range. Anything from the following would be a good match, IMO:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Just read couple of your reviews. Awesome stuff man. Thank you. Wanted to reach out for some advice. I currently ride lib tech box scratcher 154. Truly a freestyle skateboard feel board. Super playful which i love. Getting into this season i want to add another board and i was debating between the capitaa mercury and outer space living. Since i still want a fun board that i can play with, i decided to go with the outerspace living. I have a 10.5 burton swath boot. Do you thing the 156 will be ok ? Curving without toe or heel drag.
Hi Nz
Thanks for your message.
The Swatch Boa I measured was 2.8cm longer than the mondo – so for a 10.5, that would mean roughly 31.3cm overall boot length for the 10.5 Swath Boa. The 156 Outerspace Living is 25.9cm wide at the inserts. So, with completely flat binding angles, that would be a total overhang of 5.4cm (2.7cm per edge, with perfect boot centering). With more angle on your bindings, that overhang will be less. But it is on the edge for being too much overhang. If you really like to rail your carves, then it might be pushing it. If you’re not that aggressive on your carves, I think you get away with it. Burton boots also tend to have quite a bit of toe bevel vs the average, so that helps too. (the Swath I measured at 3.4cm off the ground vs an average of 2.5cm from all the boots I measured – though take this measurement with a grain of salt as it’s quite hard to measure but there is more bevel and that certainly helps).
I think if you’re quite an aggressive carver, then 155W (estimated 26.9 cm at the inserts) or 157W (estimated 27.1cm at the inserts) would be your better bets. And they aren’t overly wide for 10.5s – actually in a good range – so, even if you weren’t that aggressive a carver, those sizes would work, if you wanted to play it safe in terms of width. I typically like anything up to 265mm in width (with size 10 boots, so that’s around 270mm equivalent for 10.5s – assuming a consistent foot size correlation).
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. Appreciate your feedback. I’m more of a freestyle rider who always end up in the park for few laps. My binding ange is usually +- 15. AnyhowI was worried the 156 won’t be wide enough and might be giving me issues every now and then. I don’t think i would want to go with a wide board at the moment.
What are you thought of the mercury. I know it’s more aggressive board but i feel if i ride it on the 153 (25.3 width) or 155 then that should give me a better control and more leverage to a playful board.
Hi Nz
The Mercury is certainly a more aggressive board – and it’s less freestyle oriented – more of an all-mountain board. It’s not massively directional but there it is somewhat directional. But yeah, I would say that it’s less suitable given that you are predominantly a freestyle rider and that you’re still looking for something that’s playful. I mean you can play around a bit with the Mercury but not to the same extent, IMO. Sizing down to 153 would make it more playful than, say, going for the 155. However, you’re not looking at going much wider.
There isn’t that much difference between the inserts of the Mercury vs the Waist. The width at inserts of the 153 I would estimate to be around 259mm, 260mm. So really similar to the 156 OSL. Going to the 155 would give you a couple of mm more leeway, but then you’re also going to get something less playful. For the difference, and based on what you’re describing, I think the 156 OSL would be more suitable, if the reason for going Mercury is to get something wider without going wide, you’re not really gaining there.
Thank you! Have an awesome riding season man
You’re very welcome Nz. Hope you have an awesome season too!
hello nate I want to ask you something I bought a capita OSL 6 months ago. Do I need to apply wax on first use i have hot wax and liquid wax.thank you
Hi Adem
Thanks for your message.
It doesn’t hurt to. Then you know you’ve got a freshly waxed board. But sometimes you don’t need to until riding it a few days. Since the OSL doesn’t have a sintered base, it needs waxing less often, so I’d say it’s not absolutely necessary, but also check out the following for more on the topic.
>>Do I Need to Wax a New Snowboard
>>How Often Should I wax My Snowboard
Hope this helps
Thank u NATE…all the best
You’re very welcome Adem. Hope you have an awesome season!
Is osl sintered base?according to me osl have sintered base.
Hi Adem
OSL has a “sintruded” base, which is kind of in between extruded and sintered. The OSLs base has always felt faster to me than a purely extruded base, so I think it’s more than just marketing talk to call it “sintruded”. According to Capita you wax it as if it’s an extruded base, but it performs more like a sintered base. It’s supposed to be the best of both worlds. Now, I’m not sure it’s quite up to the standard of a sintered base, but, IMO, it’s certainly better than the average extruded base.
Hi , Nate,
Thanks a lot for the advice you provided here. Very informative and helpful.
I am a beginner, mostly all mountain and would like to buy OSL.
I am 178cm, 78 kg , boot size 10.5(44)
What board size will you suggest? Do I need wide size board? What is the difference of the riding feeling between standard and wide size board?
Waiting for your advice
Thanks
Edmond
Hi Edmond
Please refer to my answer on your other comment. I think that covers everything, but if you have any other questions or want more clarification, let me know
Hi Nate, how r u?
I will buy OSL this season. So i got few questions for you.
First of all, i can link the turns.
I ride DOA couple of days last season. But i catched the edges sometimes, i don’t know why? 🙂
1- this board less catchie for DOA right?
2- I want to do some groundtricks (butters, spins, switch etc.) also i want to ride powder. But i spend most of my time resort. İs this board right for me?
3-(last)
I’m 83 kg, 180cm and my foots is 11 (i think)
Can i buy 156 or 158?
Thank you 🙂
Hi Kubilay
Thanks for your message.
1. Yes the OSL is less catchy than the DOA. The OSL is less aggressive. The DOA is a little stiffer, and has flat sections towards the tip and tail but no real rocker to speak of. The OSL has a reasonable amount of rocker tip and tail, helping to make it less catchy.
2. The OSL is suitable for butters, spins and riding switch. I wouldn’t say it’s the most buttery board I’ve ridden, but still pretty good – 4/5 for butters. Really good riding switch, and certainly suitable for spins too. It’s decent in powder for an all-mountain freestyle board. It’s a good board for riding powder in both directions too. And if you’re mostly in the resort, then I think it would be enough in powder for you. It’s certainly better than the DOA in powder, IMO.
3. Length-wise, I think you could go either 156 or 158, but I would be leaning towards the 156 for you, for a couple of reasons. Firstly, if you’re more of a beginner/low intermediate rider, then that size would be more suitable, IMO. Secondly, if you are looking to be doing ground tricks, then shorter is better for that. If you have a boot size of US Men’s 11, then I would actually go with the 157W though. But if you can confirm your boot size that would really help. If your not sure, then measuring your foot length would be helpful (from heel to the tip of your longest toe).
Hope this helps
Thank you for answer Nate.
İ’m totally wrong my foot number. My foot is 26.2cm. (i think 8 for US number)
Ok then, I go to OSL 156 👍
So, what you think about OSL + Union Strata (or Union POW, same characteristic) combination?
Thank you again for guiding me!
Hi Kubilay
Yeah, for that foot size, definitely don’t go wide. And in terms of length, I think the 156 would be best. I agree there. The Strata would be a good match with the OSL, IMO.
Hi Nate,
I have a similar question
I am 178cm , 78 kg , boot 10.5 ( 44) just a beginner, looking for an easy all rounded board. And I really love the OSL.
Is it a good board to start with ? I am wondering whether I should buy standard or wide size board ? What is the size you will suggest?
Thanks a lot !
Edmond
Hi Edmond
Thanks for your messsage.
I wouldn’t say it was a beginner board, but it’s suitable for those who are high-end beginners bordering on intermediate, or already at a low intermediate level, looking to progress. If you are just starting out, then I think there are easy boards to get going on, like the following:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
But if you feel like you are bordering on that intermediate kind of level – if you’re not sure check this out – then the OSL would be suitable.
If you do go OSL, then I think the 156 or 155W is your best bet. As a beginner, anything from 154-156 would be good length for you, IMO.
Width-wise, the 156 is pushing it for 10.5s, IMO, but would probably be OK. It’s 259mm at the inserts (250mm waist width). If you were more advanced and riding relatively aggressively (getting high on the edge, low carves etc), then it would probably be risky in terms of being too narrow, but for right now, I don’t think you’d have any issues with it. The 155W is roughly 269mm at the inserts (260mm waist), which would be at the wider end of your range, but still in a good range for your boots. This would be the safer bet and if you think you’re going to progress relatively quickly and want to keep the board for a while, then this would be the way to go. You’ll get easier maneuverability on the narrower 156, but in terms of boot drag it’s more risky, if not for now, but down the line.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks a lot!
You are wonderful!
You’re very welcome Edmond. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate, East coast rider, 90 percent groomers 10 percent park. I prefer true twins with camber under foot. Like to ride switch, butter, spin, and jump small side hits. Looking at the osl but then the Ride Machete caught my eye. Any comment on the Machete? Thanks!
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message. I personally prefer the Outerspace Living. From what you’re describing, the Machete fits what you’re after, so not a bad option, but I just prefer the OSL vs it. Neither board is that great in icy conditions, which I’m guessing you get a fair bit over there. That would be my only concern. I mean keep the edges sharp and you should be fine, but if you’re concerned about edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, there might be some better options for you. Let me know what you’re thinking and I can suggest some alternatives. But between the OSL and Machete, I would personally go OSL.
Hi Nate!
Got a quick question this will be my third season and i would say higher intermediate to beginning advanced. My height is 173cm tall and weigh about 160lb. I was looking at a on sale 2019 scott stevens pro 157cm with union force bindings. I do all mountain with some park. Would you recommend it because i thought the length should be good for a little bit of powder. Mainly concerned about the size but everywhere chart i looked at recommend 156-160
Hi Louis
Thanks for your message.
The Scott Steven’s pro is very park/urban focused and not the best option as a mostly all-mountain with some park – if you were predominantly riding park, and did a lot of jibbing, then this would be highly recommendable. But for what you’re describing, I don’t think it’s the best choice. Not going to hold up that well to speed and carving. If you’re a really casual rider that’s not much into speed and don’t really do big carves, then it would be doable but otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it. Or if you were a beginner rider. Check out the following instead, which are more suited to mostly all-mountain with a bit of park:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Generally speaking size-wise, I would say around 155-157 for you. But for the Scott Steven’s Pro it’s something you ride a little shorter. There’s a fair bit of effective edge compared to overall length (not much in terms of tip/tail outside the contact points). It’s designed for park/urban riding, so designed to be ridden a little smaller. If you were going to get this board and have it mainly for park riding, then I’d say probably more like 153 for you, 155 max. 157 would be a good all-mountain length for you, but like I say it’s not that suited to all-mountain riding, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
Looking to pick up a 2020 Outerspace Living for this season. Can you recommend the best size for me?
• Ability: I would classify myself as a high beginner/very-low intermediate looking for a board to progress on. Can link turns but still have low confidence most of the time, ride at a slower speed and a lot of skidding.
• Riding Conditions: East Coast, Mid-Atlantic. 90% man-made snow with the occasional fresh 1-3″+. However, mostly granular, becoming progressively more hardpack/icy throughout the day.
• Specs: 5’7″, 155-160 lbs. Size 8.5 boot.
• Riding Style: Resort riding only. Groomers, but I have a desire to progress and eventually hit little side-hits and small jumps. No jibbing at this time.
I appreciate it, Nate. Thank you!
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
I think the 154 would be a good size for you. At a more advanced level you could go up to 156, but as a beginner/intermediate rider, it’s a good idea to go a little shorter. Also the 154 will be a better width for your boots. As a complete beginner, I would probably even say 152 for you, but 154 I think is a good balance between a size that will be good for years to come and that you can progress on, without being too long and being too hard to progress on and effecting your confidence. So yeah, if I was you I would go with the 154.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I want to buy the OSL.
I got Burton Ruler Boots 44,5 (11,5)
Ride +|- 15
185cm high
89 kg
Current Board
Nitro Team 2018 – 162
I want to buy a smaler Board, so i can turn better.
I Ride since 4 Seassons
Most on Mountin
Some parkjumps
Some butter
No fast speed
How smal can i go?
156? 158?
Thank you for your help.
Hi Andy
Thanks for your message.
I would be leaning towards the 158 in your case. It’s going to feel significantly smaller than the Team 162 – and will feel softer, easier to butter etc. Going to 156 is getting a bit too small for your specs, and even though you’re not looking to ride fast, might still feel a bit squirrelly. If you were just going to be using it for casual park riding, then the 156 might be OK, but as a do everything board, I’d go 158 for you.
In terms of width, with Burton boots 44.5 (which I think translates to US11 – but it can be confusing) – but assuming US11, I think you’ll be fine width-wise on the 158, given that you ride +/-15 angles, and have Burton (low profile) boots. And assuming you haven’t had any issues on your Team 162, then it shouldn’t be a problem. On the 156 it’s pushing it a little in terms of being too narrow. I know it’s not that much difference, but can make the difference. In any case, I think the 158 is the better length for you anyway.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you.
There was no problems with the wide on the Team.
My Bindungs are ROME D.O.D.
Yes it is US11
I will look 4 the 158
Thx 🙂
You’re very welcome Andy
Thanks for your answer
I think take the Osl, I always hesitate for the size, 152 can be quite fun, and in 154 more all montain. I’m thinking putting the union contact pro bindings (with +15/-15 angle) , with vans hi standard boots what do you think?
Hi Clément
The Contact Pros should work fine. Maybe just a touch on the soft side, if being really fussy, but overall a good match with the OSL – particularly if you went 152.
The Vans Hi Standard Pro would be a good match, IMO. The Hi-Standard OG are getting a bit too soft though, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hello I am looking for a new snowboard and I hesitate between the Outerspace Living and the doa, and betwen 152 anf 154
I’m 175cm and 68 kg and 26,5 size boots
I’m an intermediate snowboarder it’s for all montain,park, butter and a little jump
If you can help me
Hi Clément
Thanks for your message.
I would say the Outerspace Living. Both would work, but a few little things make me lean towards OSL for you.
It’s a little easier to butter and a little easier on jibs – and a little better in powder – if that’s something you get. Also I would say that it’s a slightly better option for an intermediate rider too.
The DOA has a little more pop and would be a better choice for bigger jumps. But for small to medium jumps the OSL is good.
So unless large jumps are a major part of your riding, I would be leaning towards OSL, overall.
Size-wise, I think the 154 would probably be your best bet, depending on how much time you spend in the park/riding freestyle. As an all-round size, I’d say go 154. But if you ride the park more than the mountain, then 152 might be better. The 152 is quite narrow – but if you’re riding with binding angles of +15/-15 or similar, then I think it would be fine for 26.5 boots. It would only be if you were riding with a very straight angle on your back binding, then it might be pushing it. But based on how you describe your riding I would be surprised if you were riding with a straight angle on your back foot.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate. Love your reviews. Keep up the good work! Need some help choosing a board size. Currently riding a K2 Standard 152 with K2 Formula bindings and size 10 K2 Darko boots. Binding angles 6 in the front and -6 in the back. I have Union Strata bindings waiting in the wings. I’m 5’8″ 142lbs. Outerspace Living 156 or 158?
Thanks
Eric
Hi Eric
Thanks for your message.
For your specs both the 156 and 158 are too long for you, IMO. Length-wise the 152 would be your best bet – assuming at least an intermediate level. If more beginner you could even ride the 150.
However, I think the 152 would be risky in terms of being too narrow for 10s.
If you’re really set on this board, then I think the 154 is probably your best bet – to be wide enough for your boots, and not majorly over-long for your height/weight.
Hope this helps
Thanks For the advice Nate. I will definitely let you know how it works out. I did see an earlier post where somone had the union strata’s and a OLS with an overhang with the foot bed. That shouldn’t be a problem right?
Eric
Hi Eric
Thanks for your message. I would predict the 154 OSL to be around 25.7cm wide at the reference stance – the Strata are quite long and the foot bed on the top is 25.8cm. Assuming you can get them fully centered on the board, there shouldn’t be too much overhang. There will certainly appear to be overhang as that width is measured at the based of the board (from metal edge to metal edge). On the topsheet of the board, it will be a little narrower than 25.7cm (but that’s fine as it’s the base width that we’re concerned with). So, the Strata, which are one of the longest mediums I’ve ridden, would be borderline on the 154. That said, the Strata are 24cm no the bottom of the footbed – and angle up, which give you a bit more leeway.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Thanks Nate! Can’t wait for next winter!
You’re very welcome Eric. Bring on next winter!
Hey Nate,
I’m 160lbs, 5ft 10 and size 9.5 boot. What size would you recommend?
I’d say I’m high level beginner to low level intermediate at the moment. I was thinking of a 156 so that it would float better in powder.
Cheers,Mark
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
I would be weighing up between the 154 and 156 for you. I think you’d be fine on both those sizes, but yeah if you’re looking for more float in powder, then the 156 would give a bit more for sure. A few more pros of each:
The 154 will be a little more maneuverable at slower speeds, better in trees and better for tricks etc.
The 156 will be a little more stable at speed, better for big carves, and float a little better in powder.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks. Thinking of getting this with Salomon Trigger bindings as they’re reduced in my local store. Have you got any experience of these? Seem to have some decent reviews elsewhere and similar flex to the OS Living.
Hi Mark
I haven’t gotten on any Triggers, so I couldn’t say first hand, but their specs seem to match well with the OSL and I’ve had a good experience on most Salomon bindings that I’ve ridden. So, again, I couldn’t say for sure with the Triggers specifically, but they seem to be a good match in theory.
Does this board suit for carving and uneven terrain ?
I found some comment said this board makes him toe drag when carving because the skinny
board type
Thanks
my boot size US 8.5~9
stance setting +9~12/0
board preference 152cm
drag problem ?
Thanks
Hi Wess
The OSL is decent for carving, but it’s not an out and out carving machine. But for an intermediate rider can lay down a good carve – and handles uneven terrain fine. And also, based on your previous comments of what you’re looking for, it’s got a good balance of carving, switch, butterability and jumping.
In terms of toe drag, that would depend on the size you go for and your boot size.
The OSL is narrower when you get down to the 150 and 152 sizes, so it’s something to think about since you prefer something around 152. And since you ride with a 0 degree angle on your back foot, that doesn’t give you a lot of leeway. In the 152 there would certainly be some risk of drag. With an 8.5, you would probably get away with it – particularly if you have a low profile boot. But with a longer boot it might still be risky. With a 9, it would be risky given your straight back foot.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much!
You are so kind and helpful
You’re very welcome Wess. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
thanks to your awsome website, i’m really close to pull the trigger for my first board.
I’m 35 yo and discovered the pleasure of the groomer this year. Never skied before and wanted to immediatly go to snowboard.
I took one lesson (2 hours) and then practiced for 4-5 days and i just felt in love with snowboarding.
According to your ” Beginner to expert system “, i guess i’m really advanced lvl 3 or lvl 4.
I will be riding on and off groomers, will not be riding any park and i wanna practice carving a lot, is the Capita OSL a good choice ? Any other options ?
For bindings i’m planning to buy Union STR 2019
My size : 178cm
Weight: 65kg
Foot size: 26.5 mondo
Would appreciate your opinion about sizing of the board too. Was about to go for 154 – 156
I know i’m asking a lot and sorry for my poor gammar and vocabulary, i’m a french rider ^^
Keep up the good work, this website is just way too great !
Hi Yannick
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, if you’re at that level 3/4, then the Outerspace Living would be a great choice, IMO – you could also check out – >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards – but the Outerspace Living is top of that list, so yeah a great option for you, IMO.
The STR is a good match to the Outerspace living and a good beginner bordering on intermediate level binding too. And the STRs are great value for money too, for what you get. So, another good choice, IMO.
Size-wise for the OSL, I would go for the 154 for your specs. I would actually be weighing up the 152 and 154 for you. The pros and cons:
The 152 would be an easier ride – more maneuverable at slower speeds and better for freestyle type riding. Depending on binding angles, and depending on the size of boots you end up with could potentially be a bit narrow though.
The 154 would be better for bigger carves, stability at speed and float in powder. A slightly steeper learning curve. But a very good width for your boots, IMO.
From what you’re describing, I would be leaning towards the 154, but you could also go 152. At this stage I wouldn’t go with the 156 for your specs/level.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you so much !
It’s damn helpful, just bought my first board with absolutely no doubt in mind thanks to you 😉
Took the Union STR Stone for the ” moon style ” ^^ !
I’m actually watching your boots review, i think i will go for Vans Hi-Standard OG , Burton Moto or Vans Infuse. Should i avoid one of these particulary or is it fine ?
Is there a boot which suit especially well with Capita OSL/Union STR combo ?
As i said in my previous message, i’m 26.5 mondo, don’t have really wide feet, not really thin neither.
Thanks again for your priceless help
Hi Yannick
The Infuse is maybe just a touch too stiff for your level/that setup. And the Hi-Standard and Moto a bit too soft flexing for that setup, IMO. They would work, but if you want an even better match, I would look at something with around a 5/10 flex, 6/10 flex the next best bet and then 4/10 flex. The Vans Aura Pro, Vans Hi-Standard Pro and Burton Swath or Burton Ruler would be great choices, IMO. You could also check out:
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
If you went Infuse, I would ride it without the tongue stiffeners.
For more on fit, by brand, check out:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, it’s now almost 4 years i started snowboarding and thanks to you i’m really enjoying my OSL boad and union str bindings !
I can only ride 1 week a year but i would say i’m now intermediate lvl 5-6. Finally took the 156 despite your advice cause i couldnt find the 154 when i bought it. If it was a little bit tough at beginning i’m really happy with it right now 🙂
I’m going to ride on first march week et as i’m thinking more and more to the snow i just wanted thank you again for your website and all your advice.
Greetings from France <3
Hi Yannick
Thanks for the update. Always great to get follow ups. Awesome to hear your setup is treating you well and that you’re loving the ride! Keep shredding!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the excellent work!
I’m looking to buy the Outerspace Living but not sure which size to go for.
I’m a lower intermediate rider
175 cm
155 lbs
U.S. boot size 11 in the Thirtytwo Lashed Premium
I’ve been looking at the 156 but would that be too narrow? Would the 155W or 157W be a better option?
Cheers!
Hi Jamie
Thanks for your message.
I would be looking at the 155W for you. I think it’s a good length for your specs and a good width for your boot size. Length-wise I would be looking at around 154, 155, maybe up to 156 for your specs/ability. But the 154 and 156 are likely too narrow, IMO. The 156 measures 259mm at the inserts, which for 11s is going to be really pushing it. I would estimate that the 155W would be around 269mm at the insets, which isn’t overly wide – a really good width for 11s, IMO. So I think that would be an ideal length/width for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks a lot Nate. Legend!
You’re very welcome Jamie. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for your review.
I am at intermediate level. Want an all mountain twin camber board but also want to do some freestyle tricks. I was wondering if you have any suggestions between Outerspace Living and Burton Process Camber. Thank you so much in advance!
Best,
Jack
I mostly go to resort slope, groomers. Thanks!
Hi Jack
Thanks for your message.
Some of the differences between the OSL and Process Camber.
1. The OSL has a hybrid camber shape with camber between and under the feet and rocker towards tip and tail. The new process cambers actually have purepop camber rather than traditional camber – which is essentially camber between and under the feet with flat sections towards tip and tail. Personally I find PurePop camber to have a slightly more catchy feel, if you get off your game, but is otherwise a nice poppy fun camber profile, but not the most forgiving of skidded turns. Not as much as traditional camber in that sense, but a little more than some other profiles. The OSL is a little more forgiving in that sense.
2. That rocker vs flat in the tip and tail, helps to make the OSL a little better in powder – but the Process does have a setback stance of 12.5mm, which kind of balances that out. But you could always set the OSL back for powder days – if you were going to be taking it off-groomer at all. The downside of that 12.5mm setback on the Process is that if you want to center it, it might not be possible depending on your bindings.
3. They probably feel about the same flex. The OSL is stiffer on paper, but in reality they both feel about the same on snow – maybe the Process mildly softer flexing.
There are other differences too, of course, but those are the main things I can think of.
Hope this helps with your decision and apologies for the late reply – have been doing a lot of board testing the last few days.
Thanks so much Nate! I will go with OSL. Cheers!
You’re very welcome Jack. Hope you enjoy your new board and have an awesome rest of your season!
Hi Nate,
Love your site, tx a lot for everything. It’s a real guidence in every aspect. I’am an intermediate rider. Not really carving maybe half 🙂 can ride trough the red slopes easily. Cant butter etc yet, hoping for next season with this toy. I am 1.82cm tall, 96kgs and 9.5 boot (43 eu)size. I had chance the rent this board last week, but it was 159w. It was really fun, only problem was when I do try to go flat on my board on slower sections of the mountain, my board isn’t going straight – its instead leading me to the left (my fron foot) suppose related to the stance? According to the chart have to ride 160. Would that be big difference? which one I should buy 159w or 160? Actually couldnt find 159w on the market but can 160. One mor thing about bindings, it was Union Flite, and felt every hard movement at the base, what binding should I have for softer ride? (sorry for bad grammer)
Cheers mate!
Hi Burak
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would go for the 160 for you. The 159W is too wide for your boot size, IMO.
With the Flite Pro, I think what you mean is that you felt a lot of deadspot underfoot, and the bindings didn’t flex well with the board. This is what I refer to as “board feel”. Some bindings have better or worse board feel, depending on a few factors with the base plate. I would check out the lists below, and pay attention to the “board feel” scores in the score breakdown and make sure to pick one that rates well there. Flex-wise for the Outerspace Living, I would go for something around 5/10 or 6/10 in terms of flex. You could get away with 4/10 flex too, if you would prefer a softer flexing binding.
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thanks for a nice review. I am looking for board after I learned on Salomon Sight. I am still advanced beginner but would like to have a light board that will complement the Sight, will be able to give me more speed but is still not too stiff. I will be riding groomers, will not be riding any park, but might have an occasional powder day. I am 95 kg and 183 cm tall and was thinking of 158 cm OL. The other option I considered was Yes Typo? Is there something I am missing? Other options? I am looking for a board to take my riding to the next level if that makes sense.
Hi Dimiter
Please refer to my reply from when you previously posted this question at the link below:
Top 5 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners Comment 8605
Hope this helps
Hello Nate,
After a decade of hardly riding at all I have gotten a few days on snow and am looking to get back off of rental boards. During the mid 90’s – mid 2000s the boards I owned were obviously full cambered ranging from 156 to 162 with a slant toward all mountain. I really wish I still had my Airwalk Scout, which was their top of the line widish freeride deck in 99. With that being said the rentals I have been riding are Burton V-Rocker and I have felt times when the the lifted edges have saved me from catching as my skill has fell back down to intermediate in middle age. So with all of that being said I am looking at 3 possible boards: the Outer Space Living in either 157W or 159W, a Lib Tech Attack Banana 159W or the Slash Brainstorm 159W. I am 185lbs with a size 12 boot so I know I could probably push out to the next longest size in all of those but I like to cut a little length on wide boards. My only concern would be overpowering the OSL flex at my weight. I sometimes ride +15/-15 but generally prefer a +15/-9 stance so back foot overhang can be an issue. I am shopping for reduced footprint boots from Burton, Adidas or Ride. I am riding east coast US, but hope to get a larger mountain Rocky MTNs trip in the next year. I don’t ride park anymore, but do look for side hits and popping off of rollers. What would you advise?
Hi Joe
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think you’d overpower the Outerspace Living – unless you are quite an aggressive rider, then you might. But weight wise I think you would be fine on either the 157W or 159W. I would probably be leaning towards the 159W, but if you’re more freestyle focused, then 157W is certainly doable. I’m 185lbs also and have ridden and liked both the 156 and 158. If I was going to go with one of those as my one and only board, I would ride the 158 for sure, but if it was part of a quiver and was using it predominantly for freestyle I would actually choose the 156. If it’s going to be your only board, then I would say go for the 159W. The only thing with that is that I didn’t personally find that it was amazing in icy conditions, which you might get a lot out East? That would be my only question mark.
The Brainstorm would be fine and I think the 159W is probably a good length, but it’s a narrower board, even in the wide sizes, so I think it could be pushing it too narrow, even with low profile boots. You might get away with it, but that would be my biggest concern with that one.
The Attack Banana should be fine width-wise and length-wise and it’s pretty good in hard/icy snow. Not quite as good as the Brainstorm in powder, but as good as the OSL, I would say. A looser feeling board that has quite a lot of rocker. So that would be my biggest concern, if you’re looking to get away from too much rocker in the profile. That’s my biggest concern with that one.
Are those 3 your only options?
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hey Nate,
Love your site. Sooo much good stuff here.
I am 5’9 and 190lbs, hoping to lose some weight to around 175 or so. I am intermediate and love boards that can initiate turns really fast. I am very much into carving and not so much into the park due to knee issues. I also enjoy the pow here and there.
I am in between two Capita boards; OSL and Mercury. I am leaning towards a 156 or 158 OSL. I am not sure if I am ready for the mercury as it is more unforgiving and possibly less suitable for a regular intermediate.
Would love to hear what you think.
Cheers,
Hi Emir
Thanks for your message.
I think the OSL is likely the best option. The Mercury isn’t super-unforgiving, and it’s not unattainable for an intermediate rider, but more like intermediate bordering on advanced. And depending on your boot size, might not be the fastest to initiate turns as you would like, if your boots are a little small for the appropriate length.
For the OSL, I would say go 156. It’s a doable length for you now, and assuming you drop to 175, then it’s even more appropriate. And going 156 over 158, will give you just that little bit more quickness for turn initiation. But if you could also let me know your boot size, so I can take that into account as well.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, it’s amazing how much time you dedicate to answer to all the people. I am a beginner snowboarder(have snowboarded 6 times) looking to buy my first board. I am 175 cm(5’9) weight 82kg but I am slowly dropping(I will stabilize at around 72kg) and I wear US 8.5 burton moto boots so I think their imprint is smaller. I am thinking of buying as my first snowboard the capita outerspace living at 156 size. I am learning to link my turns on blues and I mostly like groomers some powder and when I get better I would love to try ground tricks like buttering etc. And try to carve at higher speeds.That’s why I am thinking this board is suitable for me. Do you agree on the 156 size I think is very good for all mountain riding.
Hi Thanos Thanks for your message. The Outerspace Living works very well, IMO, as a high-end beginner going on intermediate board, so it’s probably just in your reach ability-wise. Size-wise, I think the 156 is a good option for you. If you were 72kg right now, as a beginner, then I would say go with 154. But as a more advanced rider at 72kg, the 156 works and the 156 works as a beginner at 82kg. But you could also ride the 156 at 82kg. So, if you drop to 72kg by the time you’re more advanced, then 156 will work well, IMO. If you are going to get to 72kg quite quickly, then I would consider the 154. Hope this helps with your decision
Nate thank you for your answer. For bindings i am thinking union forces(205euros),union stratas(229) and union contact pros(160). What bindings is the best for this board i am leaning towards forces cause i think they are almost the same with stratas. Lastly a lot of people recommend to me the yes basic how does it compare to this is there a big difference?
Hi Thanos
The Force are great bindings for the money. The Stratas have better board feel and slightly nicer ankle strap (IMO). They are also a little softer in the baseplate but have a stiffer highback than the Force (that’s not better or worse, but just different). I would go Force over Contact Pro too – just because the Contact Pros are borderline too soft for the Outerspace Living. They’re close, and definitely doable but if I had to choose I’d go Force.
I will compare the Basic and OSL in my reply to your other comment on the YES Basic review.
Hope this helps
Hello Nate,
I really appreciate what you are doing for a snowboard geeks – folks can find lots of interesting insights here.
Well, I read quite a lot about OSL and I am pretty much sure that this is what I am looking for. Still, I don’t have much expertise in snb equipment so I am open to any suggestions. I am 82 kg (with all snb gear it will be probably closer to 85 kg), 179 cm high, 9.5/10US boots size and I would describe my riding style as mostly all mountain – let’s say: 80% all mountain/20% playing around. I usually ride groomers, prepared resort slopes but I have to handle quite often uneven terrain (in a places that are close to me – number of people and preparation issues can change pistes to a quite serious battlefield in the afternoon – bumps, ice, etc.). Occasionally, I go off the piste. In terms of skills, I would say I am an intermediate rider. I’ve been riding on a traditional camber profile board so far (old Volkl Wall Pro with a dragon on the front, 156cm, quite stiff: 6/10 but who knows if it’s not even a little stiffer in a reality). Since my current board is a directional one, my bindings setup might have a bit straighter angle on the back than classic +15/-15 angles. I was considering a purchase of DOA but since I read that its profile is very similar to the traditional camber I started exploring OSL more. I like carving and technical rides (I am not a pro, though) but I’ve been putting more attention to my knees recently and I prefer the board that is more forgiving than my current traditional camber (which is nice on a perfect groomers but becomes painful in a hard terrain). Obviously, I still would like to have a fun turns but I can give up some aggressiveness for more responsiveness and more fun in all conditions.
Please let me know what you think at your convenience and most importantly – what is the size you can recommend for my specs, I am considering 158 and 156. Also, I would like to change boots this season so I appreciate any recommendations with regard to that. My current bindings are Flux Super Titans and I pretty like them so I am not going to replace them this year if not necessary. Sorry for this too long essay, hope it’s digestible
Thank you!
Hi Lukasz
Thanks for your message.
I think the OSL would work for what you’re describing. It’s a 5/10 flex (by my feel), so that, in addition to having the rocker sections, will certainly make it a more forgiving ride than your current one (based on specs, as I haven’t ridden any Volkl gear before). The Mercury would also be an option – if you were looking to stay directional. But it is a stiffer more aggressive rider. Still more forgiving in terms of camber profile, but not as forgiving as OSL, because of that extra flex.
Size-wise, I would say go 158, since you are using it 80% all-mountain. 156 is also doable for you, and if you were going to be riding more freestyle, then that’s probably what I would recommend. But since you’re riding mostly all-mountain, then 158 is the best bet for your specs, IMO.
In terms of boots, something with around a 5/10 or 6/10 flex would be a good match with the OSL, IMO. Check out the following for some good options:
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank You very much Nate for your helpful hints! There are only two sizes available in my local store:158 and 157W which makes my choice even easier. Thanks once again. Take care!
You’re very welcome Lukasz. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hey Nate,
Amazing article to read. Really got me interested in buying the Outerspace Living. I am just debating about the width of the board. I am 1.80cm tall, around 70kg’s and shoe size should be around 9.5/10. I’ve used a board where my feet stuck out a little to much and don’t want to invest in a new board where i’ll be having the same problem. Do you think i should be fine as an intermediate/advanced rider on a 156 or 158 regarding to width?
Hopefully you can spare some of your time to answer once again! Great job dude
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
It would depend on a couple of things.
1. The profile of your boots
2. Binding angles
I have ridden both the 156 and 158 in the past, with size 10 boots (Vans which are pretty low profile) and +15/-15 binding angles. With that setup I have never had any issues in terms of too much overhang and never experienced any boot drag. However, if you were to ride with boots with a longer outersole and a straigher back binding angle, then it might be pushing it close, especially on the 158. But I think in a majority of scenarios the 158 would be wide enough. For the 156 you would likely be fine so long as you ride with a reasonably angled back binding (with 10s). With 9.5s or if you get low profile 10s, you should be fine on the 156 with most binding angles.
Length-wise, I would be leaning towards 156 for your specs. So, if you can get on that width-wise, that would be good. Getting boots first would help to make a more firm choice.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thanks for your review.
I am an intermediate rider who wants a snowboard for my own. (I snowboard one week per year before but I am more close to the mountain this year.)
I am want to learn to do good carving, freestyle(180, 360, butter in park and slope) as well as improving my normal riding(fastest speed just 50km/h, no confident yet on high speed). I am 180 cm height, 68kg weight, and have a boot Deeluxe ID 6.1 size 42.5(eu)/USM 9.5.
I am thinking about DOA, OL or Salomon huck knife, and a binding, with budget around 600$.(OL and Salomon has some discount)
Thanks for the help
Tommy
Hi Tommy
Thanks for your message.
I think the OSL would be your best bet, based on what you’re describing. DOA and Huck Knife would certainly work but I think OSL is your best bet.
Size-wise, I would be weighing up between the 154 and 156, but leaning towards the 154. But both would work, IMO.
The 154 would be more maneuverable at slower speeds, better for tricks, spins and easier to butter.
The 156 would be better for wide long carves, stability at speed and float in powder.
In terms of bindings, check out the following, which would all be a good match with the OSL.
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Or you could look at something like the Union Force or Burton Mission if you want something a little cheaper.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for the suggestion.
I think I will go with OSL 154, although there is a 21% off for DOA in local shop. For binding, I am not sure if I should go with Union Force or Union Contact Pro.
I would prefer Contact Pro for lightweight and budget, but just worry if it is too soft to practice carving.
Best regards,
Mengchen
Hi Tommy
Both would work with the OSL, but I would be leaning towards the Force. I would say the Force is 6/10 flex, the Contact Pro 4/10 flex and the OSL 5/10 flex. And I would prefer to go a little stiffer with binding compared to board rather than softer.
The other option is the Strata, which I would also rate as 6/10 in terms of flex, but with better board feel and lighter than the Force (but also costs a bit more).
Hope this helps
Hi Tommy
I have just undergone a transfer of the website to a new host, and I get an email notification of the following of your reply. I think it somehow got lost in the transition, so I will answer it here and hopefully you will receive notification of this. Your reply was:
Hi Nate,
I took your advice and bought OSL 154 and Strata M.
When I try to set it up, I found the Binding is a little overhang the board.
I did some research and read your article “How Important is Snowboard Width Sizing and How Do I Get it Right?”.
I have foot, binding and boot overhang. But my most concern is the binding.
Binding: The strata have a stick ‘boat’ shape gas pedal. The bottom of the pedal is within the width of the board. But the top of the binding overhang the board about 5mm. It is a little hard to describe so I attach the photo link hope you can have a check.
I just hope the big binding footbed won’t eat snow when the edge went in some soft snow. I don’t know how big the impact will be for my riding. Not trying yet but thinking if 156 is better, or change my binding.
Boot and Foot: I have a 26cm foot length, while the board width at inserts is 25cm. So with a duck +15/-15 stance, I will stay within the max of foot overhang: 5mm each side, which I think is okay according to your other post, and the boot overhang is about <2.5cm each side. I am also to think have a smaller boot. According to the mondo table, I should wear US 9 instead of US 9.5(current boot). But it may be the story for next year if my current board and binding fit for riding.
Thanks a lot for your response!
Tommy
Google Drive Link to Pics
The Strata does have a notoriously long foot bed. Having it angle up from the bottom does help a bit though – having the longest part higher off the board, gives you more angle to work with. It’s really hard to tell from the pictures. In some it looks like it will be OK and in others it looks like it’s overhanging a lot.
From my measurements, I measured the Medium Strata as being 24cm long on the bottom of the baseplate and 25.8cm long on the top of the footbed. Which would lead to a bit of binding overhang at the inserts, if the width at inserts is 25cm. Ideally, you wouldn’t want any binding overhang. If it overhangs the edge on the top sheet just a little that’s OK, but if it’s overhanging the edge at the base, then that’s where you can start to get problems. Usually I wouldn’t worry about a medium binding on a board this size, but the Strata might be just a bit big (along with the quite narrow waist of the OSL 154). I didn’t pick that up, my apologies.
For reference, I measured the Union Force, Medium (with Gas Pedal all the way in) at 24.4cm on the top of the footbed (23.6cm on the underside of the baseplate). So you get a slightly shorter baseplate there, and would likely be a better fit. The Contact Pro Medium I measured at 24cm (gas pedal at it’s shortest) on the top of the footbed and 23.5cm on the underside of the baseplate.
But if you are able to exchange them, I would go Force over Contact Pro for the OSL, personally.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your reply.
I have measured the binding overhang is 0.5cm in each side, from top of the footbed. The base of the plate where touch the top sheet, as your measurement, is 24cm and not overhang the board. I think what you mean is “If it overhangs the edge on the top of the footbed just a little that’s OK”. As long as it is angled up to the top, I think it is kinda Riser Plates on the bottom and probably that’s how it was designed. I search a lot but I might be the first people who have this issue or bring this issue out, but I hope it is not an issue.
I put my boot and binding on the board and make it the carving angle on the carpet. It reaches about 63+ degree when the boot firstly touches the ground. So I think the binding is still fine with the narrow width board. The issue is the boot.
The picture took from underneath showing more overhang because that’s the boot(2.2 in toe and 2.8 in the heel).
I researched a lot and I hope I can ride them on Sunday without problems and I will report to you with some data.
Best regards,
Tommy
(btw I never receive any notification so I bookmark this page and come time to time 🙂
Hi Tommy
Thanks for the update.
I can understand how “overhanging the edge at the base” could sound confusing, I should have explained this better. By this I meant the metal edge that joins up at the base. Rather than the edge of the top sheet. Often people see the edge of the topsheet as the edge of the board. But when I talk about the edge, I mean the actual metal edge – which is always a little wider than the edge of the topsheet (it angles down from the edge of the top sheet to the metal edge. So I was just trying to clarify that overhanging the topsheet’s edge is OK. Because if it overhangs that by just a little bit, it is likely still narrower than the width of the metal edge. Hope this makes sense.
In any case, it sounds like the boot is the first point of contact, which is a good sign. If you’re going to be railing carves then 63 degrees might be pushing it on the toe edge. But is probably fine on the heel edge. Even on the toe edge that kind of angle is usually OK, if you’re not getting that low with your carves. If you want even more reading about this check out:
>>Picking the Best Width for a Snowboard
Hope this helps and look forward to hearing how you get on after you ride on Sunday
Thank you for the excellent review. I’ve been researching for purchase Capita OSL vs DOA vs Mercury. I’ve also been considering Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker or TRS. I’m 5’2″, weigh approximately 150 lbs, and wear a size 7 women’s ride boot. I mostly board Lake Tahoe groomed trails with some powder on powder days and trees. I’ve been boarding for 20 years off and on, and in my younger more aggressive days I hit the park and jumps, but after some bad spills and getting older, I rarely hit the park now. I can ride switch but not comfortably. I consider myself intermediate to advance but not expert rider. I have a chance to demo some boards. They have available DOA in size 148 or OSL in size 152. If I decide to purchase was looking to purchase size 150. Now that my kids are a little older I’m looking to get out boarding more and progress in all areas (including jumps) and this will be my first purchase in over 10 years. What are your recommendations for purchase and size? Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
Hi Paul
Thanks for your message.
From the Capita options, the Mercury is the best in powder, IMO, and might have been a good option, but I think the smallest size is getting a bit long and wide for your specs. The OSL is still pretty good in powder, and other-wise a good all-round option. The DOA’s biggest weakness is powder, and since you like to ride powder, I would go with the OSL over it. I like the size of the 150 OSL for you too – a good length and width. And whilst it’s not as good at speed or for carves as the Mercury (IMO), it’s still good – and it’s a little better for jumps (IMO) and better for switch too.
Certainly, if you have the chance to demo the DOA 148 and OSL 152, definitely worth doing to get a feel for them.
The Terrain Wrecker isn’t something I’ve had the chance to ride yet, but based on specs and what I’ve heard, would work for what you’re describing. The 151 would work length-wise too, but I think it would be too wide. And at that width plus on the higher end of length, it’s just getting on the bigger side, IMO.
The TRS in the 148N would be a great size for you, IMO. The only thing with the TRS is that it’s not amazing in powder either, but if you can live with that, then I think it would be a great option.
I would be weighing up between the OSL 150 and the TRS 148N.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
I’m 5’ll, 185 lbs, size 10 boots. I usually ride +15/-15 or +15/-12. I’m an intermediate rider that usually rides groomers, a little bit of powder, a little bit of trees, and trying to get into the park. Should I get the Capita DOA or Outerspace Living and in a 154 or 156?
Thanks for the help & reviews.
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
Both would certainly work for what you’re describing, but I would be leaning towards the OSL, just because it’s a little better in powder than the DOA. And it would also be easier for learning in the park. For your specs, I would go 156, for either board. I would actually be weighing up between 156 and 158 for the OSL for you. But I would lean towards the 156, largely because it will be better for learning in the park and also better in the trees.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thanks for all you do. I’m a progressing intermediate rider, 185lbs, 9.5 boots. I ride everything except park and back country but my preference is powder-hunting in the trees. I’m beginning to hit small drops and learning to ride switch . I also have some serious decision-making issues when it comes to buying things. I think I have it narrowed down to the OSL 158, the Yes Typo 158, and the Jones Mtn Twin 160. Which would you recommend? Would you suggest another? Thanks for your help!
Hi Shawn
Thanks for your message.
All 3 would certainly work for what you’re describing. The Mtn Twin is the best in powder in one direction, but the Typo and OSL better for riding switch, so if you were going to be riding switch in powder a bit, they might be more suitable. Also possibly a little quicker edge-to-edge – and certainly so, IMO, in the 158 sizes vs the 160 for Mtn Twin.
The Typo is a little setback, so the OSL best for riding switch. But I would say the Typo is potentially a little quicker edge-to-edge.
Size-wise, purely based on weight, those are good options. But if you could also let me know your height and I can weigh up all the factors, I can give you my opinion on size for those boards.
Hope his gives you more to go off
Hey Nate,
I’m 5″ 10″ I’ve also been considering the Jones Explorer in a 159 after another day of research. It seems to be a little less stiff and maybe more forgiving but probably less conducive to switch riding. Should I be concerned about the Mtn Twin being less forgiving because it’s a little stiffer or is that even an issue? It’s going to be fun seeing how much different any of these boards ride compared to my old K2!
Thanks!
Hi Shawn
I actually find the Explorer to be about the same stiffness as the Mountain Twin or maybe even slightly stiffer. That was my personal feel from them anyway. That as comparing the 157 Mountain Twin to the 159 Explorer. The Explorer is the kind of board you can ride a little longer, because there’s less effective edge compared to overall length.
For you I would actually go 157 for the Mountain Twin too, and 159 if you went Explorer. Explorer is a little harder to ride switch than the Mtn Twin, IMO, but still doable. Still 158 for Typo and OSL.
So Explorer an option too, but you do sacrifice in terms of riding switch, and not any softer than the Mtn Twin either, IMO. I would say the following flex for the boards in mention (by my feel, not what they are rated as):
Explorer: 6.5/10
Mtn Twin: 6/10
OSL: 5/10
Typo: 4.5/10
Hope this helps
Hello Nate I’m 5,7 weigh 150 and boot size 9 will the outer space living 152 be good for me. My stance is 12/12
Hi Fern
Thanks for your message.
I think the 152 and 154 would be good lengths for you, and I would be leaning towards the 152 for your specs.
Width-wise, the 152, with 12/12 angles, is on the cuff, but I think you could just squeeze on there. However, if you like to get quite low in your carves it might be pushing it, and the 154 would give you more leeway there – and would still be a good length for you.
It also depends on the brand/model of boots. Do you have your own boots? And if so, what boots are they? (some boots have a lower profile than others).
Hope this helps
Hello Nate!
I spend so much time on your site! I love it. All the content is so valuable and well explained. The questions and the answers provided make this site a real wonderful data knowledge.
However I try to find my lover board… but I cannot decide yet which one will make my heart bumping harder.
I ‘m riding for now more than10 years, 1 week each year in Alpes and always rent boards without knowing what I really got under my feet! Now, I really want to get mine!
Based on description, my level is right on the border between intermediate and advanced. I’m 186cm, 75kg 11 foot size. I spend my time on groomers but as soon I have the opportunity I go outside to jump, rotate (based on my level…), enjoy puff, crash :). I also go to park to perform small medium jumps. I also love carving, and try to be natural in switch.
Angles are usually set to -15 +15 degree.
I’ve choosen the outer space living, but I wondering which size will better suit me. The 157w or the 159w.
What will be your choice?
Thanks Nate
Hi Gabriel
Thanks for your message.
Based on your specs and ability and how you describe your riding, I would say go for the 157W. The 159W will be better for stability at speed and in powder, but I think you’ll appreciate the 157W for spins, jumps and general maneuverability. Also, the 159W is going to be quite wide for 11s (assuming you mean US11s). The 157W isn’t that much narrower but being a little narrower and being a little shorter, I think it would be a good balance of width and length for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate, loving all the detailed info and advice you provide on here. Very very helpful, I’ve turned quite a few to this site.
I’ve got a quick question in regards to this board and setup.
I’m a beginner in Denver , 3 days on mountain and progressing very fast and naturally from what I’ve been told. I’m getting to the point where I’m about ready to jump in with both feet. I’m 5’10” 190lbs (86kg , 178cm) wear a size US 10.5. Athletic build with very strong legs. I’m sure I’ll get a dozen or more rides this season (I have a season pass and live close)
I’m looking for a good do it all board that I can keep around for a long time and ride switch on. Groomers/freestyle/all mountain/park. Something I can still progress without much trouble. I like the looks, sound and price of the outer space living. Would this be an good fit for me? Originally was considering something more along the burton instigator lines but this really seemed to appeal to me and might allow me to do a bit more in the future.
I’m also thinking to pair this with union flight pro bindings. I’m currently torn on the boots, I really like the burton rulers but am afraid they may be a bit too stiff so maybe the moto’s would be a better fit?
Or maybe I should go with a completely different setup? Thanks for any help and advice, you’ve already been a great help!
I also have a hookup to get 30% from rei so I fully plan on using that lol!
Hi Jordan
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t ordinarily say that the Outerspace Living would be best for a beginner, but in your circumstances I think it would be a good option. It’s the kind of board, that is suitable for a high-end beginner, going on intermediate, but since you sound like you’re progressing quickly and since you are athletic and have strong legs, I think you could handle the extra stiffness of the Outerspace living. Usually I would say go medium-soft, but in your case I think you would be OK with the medium flex of this board.
In terms of bindings and boots. It’s a good idea to match the flex, at least close to the board. So, I would recommend something with a 4/10 or 5/10 flex for both boots and board. So, I think the Rulers would be fine and be a better match for the board. And for bindings, I would step up to the Contact Pro. Or go Union STR, for the Outerspace Living, to more closely match the flex.
It would be a slightly steeper learning curve with this setup, but in your case, I think you should be OK, based on what you’re describing and it will be a setup that you would be able to ride for years.
Size-wise, the 158 is probably the best size for you. And that should be wide enough for your boots assuming you ride with something like +15/-15 binding angles (which if you’re looking to learn to ride switch, then something like that is a good way to go). And assuming you go with Burton boots, that gives you a bit more leeway there too. You could also ride the 156, but it’s risking being a little too narrow. With Burton boots and +15/-15 angles, I’d say you would get away with the width on the 156, but it would be pushing it. So, I think the 158 is the better overall size for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the quick and informative reply Nate!
Yeah I am/was worried about it being just a bit on this stiff side for my experience level. But I was hoping that my situation might allow me to get away with just a bit of extra stiffeness without slowing my progression too much. I was thinking the 158 with the +15/-15 angle as well!
It sounds like I should be okay with the OTL, Rulers, and Union CPs. This setup does seem like it will do exactly what I’d want it to do for years to come, as long as I can get over my initial skill level. I’ll probably rent another time or two on a beginner board before moving to this setup. Hopefully I’ll be able to demo it somewhere, if that’s even an option.
If you have any other recommendations you think might cater a little better to me I’d love to hear them!
Thanks again Nate for taking all the time to help me and others out!
Hi Jordan
You’re very welcome. I think you would be good for that setup, but check out the following for some other options. This list I created very recently to cater to those that are high level beginners, bordering on intermediate riders, and also boards that could stick with you for longer than the average beginner board.
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
If you think of it at the time, I would be interested in hearing what you choose in the end. And if you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Hey Nate,
Just thought I’d touch base with you on my decision. I ended up getting the OTL in 158 and union contact pros. I haven’t gotten to ride it yet and will probably get boots this week. I’m still leaning towards the rulers but thought I’d ask if you had anything else you’d recommend in the 4/10 or 5/10 stiffened range. I do have a slightly wide foot. It’s right in between normal and wide so I can usually get away with a Normal boot that runs a little big, but if it’s a more narrow boot then I’d probably need to go wide.
Again thanks for all you do, a huge help! I’ll let you know how the setup does when I get out to keystone this week.
Hey Nate, just thought I’d let you know I ended up going with the 158 outer space living and union contact pros. I haven’t ridden it just yet nor have I gotten the boots.
I have a slightly wider foot, in between a D an EE width. So I generally need something a bit on the wider side. Is there anything you’d recommend? I tried the burton rulers but they were a bit tight on the fit. I loved the K2 Maysis but I’m afraid it’s quite a bit too stiff for me. Trying to keep it in the 4-6/10 stiffness range. Looked at A couple of the adidas models since I’ve heard they have a bigger fit like the k2’s but it’s hard to find them locally to try on. I also prefer a boa system but I’ll definitly forgo it for a boot that works best for me.
I’ll let you know how the setup works for me this week at keystone.
Thanks again for all your help!
Hi Jordan
Thanks for the update.
Yeah boots-wise, with wider feet, I would say:
Adidas – Wide
Burton – Mid-Wide
DC – Mid-Wide
K2 – Medium
Ride – Medium
Salomon – Narrow
Thirty Two – Mid-Wide
Vans – Medium
Check this out for more:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
I don’t have wide feet, so this is going by what others have said. So, I would have though Burton’s would be OK based on that, but if they don’t feel good, then another brand might be the way to go.
Maybe something like:
~ Thirty Two Lashed Double Boa (6/10 flex)
~ Thirty Two Zephyr (4/10 flex – not BOA though)
~ Thirty Two TM-Three (6/10 flex – also not BOA)
~ K2 Ender (5/10 flex) – I wouldn’t have thought K2 but if the Maysis fit well, then K2 might be a good fit for you
~ K2 Boundary (6/10 flex)
~ Burton Ruler Wide (but I don’t think the Ruler Boa comes in a wide)
~ Burton Swath Boa (5/10 flex – maybe fits a little different to Ruler?)
~ Adidas Response (6/10 flex)
Hope this gives you some options – look forward to hearing what you think after keystone
Hey Nate
Thanks for your reviews, it was very helpful!
I’m looking for a new board for me and i can’t choose between Capita DOA and Capita Outerspace living and board length either.
I’ve been riding on 158 cm rocker board and for the last two years i’ve been learning jibbing and jumping in the park. Also i love snowboarding in trees and in powder.
The both of these boards (DOA and Outerspace living) are all-mountain and i cannot choose the right one. I want to continue learning skills in the park, but i also want to be able to use by board in powder and in trees.
Also i’m not sure about my board length. I’ve never felt inconvenience from board length (158cm), but maybe i need something like 156cm to get better results in the park.
My weight is 72kg and the height is 184cm.
What would you recommend about the model of the board and board length?
Thanks, in advance
Hi Artem
Thanks for your message.
The Outerspace Living is better in powder, in my experience. So based on that, it might be the better option for you, given what you’re describing. The DOA is a more aggressive ride than the Outerspace Living. I wouldn’t call the Outerspace Living super playful, but it’s on the playful side. Certainly more playful than the DOA, IMO.
But yeah, overall from what you’re describing I would say go Outerspace Living.
Size-wise, both the 156 and 158 would work, but I would be leaning towards the 156 for you, for the Outerspace Living. It will be a better size for the park and for the trees. The only downside with going 156 over 158 is that the 158 would float a little better in powder, but I think overall the 156 is what I would be leaning towards. Same thing if you went with the DOA.
The other thing to consider though is width. What’s your boot size? Just want to make sure the 156 would be an appropriate width. Depending on boot size, it could be worth looking at the 155W or 157W.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you
The boot size is 9 US.
I think 156cm would be OK for me.
You’re very welcome Artem.
Yeah, with US 9, the 156 would be a good size, width-wise.
Hey Nate Hope you’re good dude
I see you rode this board with Burton Malavita.
What else would you recommend pairing up with this board? I’m thinking of the new Union Strava?
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
Yeah the Strata would be a good match for this board, IMO. Also something like the Burton Genesis, Burton Cartel, Flux DS or K2 Lien AT would work well. But yeah Strata would be all good, for sure.
Hope this helps
Man, you’re a legend thanks so much for your help
will you be reviewing the strata soon?
You’re very welcome Mark.
Yep, I’ve got the Strata on the list of reviews to be published – in fact looks like it’s due to be published this Thursday, if you can wait until then.
UPDATE: Here’s the Strata review, published now.
>>Union Strata Review
Hi Nate,
I left a comment last night but I’m not sure if it sent through correctly so I’ve typed it up again just in case I’d messed it up.
Firstly I’d just like to thank you for your amazingly helpful site! I only wish I’d found it sooner. Basically, I’ve caught myself in a bit of a sticky situation as although I put a lot of research into my next setup, the one area I neglected was board width.
I weigh 68-70kg (150-152lbs) and am 183cm (6’0) tall with a men’s US10.5-11 boot. I’ve purchased the Capita Outerspace Living in a size 154 which I thought would be great for me, except I neglected to realize that it is very narrow at a waist width of only 248mm. I ride a +15/-15 stance which I guess helps a bit, but at my boot size would I have significant drag issues on this board?
I’m also going to be buying some new boots and am looking at the 2019 Adidas Sambas in US10.5, would their reduced footprint be a noticeable help? I could maybe try to squeeze into a 10 but not sure if it would work. Looking forward to your response.
Hi Ash
Thanks for your message. I did get your other message too. Just have to go through moderation before they’re published.
I think that length is fine for you – I would say anything from 154 to 156 would be a good length for your specs for this board.
The width, like you suspect, is pushing it close. I couldn’t say for sure but you might get away with it, given that you are getting Adidas boots and have a +15-/-15 stance. Here’s a few things to consider.
1. I haven’t measured the Adidas Samba specifically, but I did measure the Tactical ADVs and they are the boots with the lowest profile of any I’ve measured. They were only 1.7cm longer on the outersole than the Mondo-sized foot that they were designed to fit. So for the 10.5 Samba, which is designed for a 28.5cm Mondo, the outersole would be 30.2cm, assuming it has the same degree of reduced footprint as the Tactical ADV (which I believe it does, but no guarantees as I haven’t measured it, specifically). My size 10 Vans Aura (designed for a 28cm Mondo) measure 30.5cm on the Outersole (and my Size 10 Vans Infuse measure 30.7cm) – and Vans have really good reduced footprint themselves these days. So Adidas 10.5s are like 10s really and even 9.5s compared some 10.5s from other brands.
2. The 156 Outerspace Living measures 259mm at the inserts (compared to a 250mm waist), which means that the 154 OSL is likely to measure around 257mm at the waist. So making assumptions about the Samba – even assuming let’s say that it’s 31cm on the outersole (310mm), then there would be a total overhang of 5.3cm (2.65cm heel and toe assuming even overhang), IF you were to have your boot straight across the board – which would be pushing it in terms of overhang. However, with +15/-15 angles, then I would say it would be fine based on those numbers being accurate.
The other thing is how deep you like to carve. If you like to get really high up on edge on your carves, then it will be cutting it closer, but if you’re a less aggressive rider, then I think the width should be fine, close to the minimum you would want.
If you feel like you’re a deep carver and wanted more room, then the 155W would likely be the best option.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the detailed and quick reply, glad to hear that I’ll hopefully be alright!
As for riding style I bought this board with the intention to work on my freestyle/park riding, although hopefully it’ll also do well around the mountain – am going to Japan so there will be a lot of powder around. I do enjoy carving but nothing too crazy aggressive. Won’t exactly be laying out eurocarves on this board.
You’re very welcome Ash. Have an awesome time in Japan!
Hey Nate,
First I’d just like to thank you for how amazingly helpful your site has been! I only wish I had found it sooner. Basically, I’ve caught myself in a bit of a sticky situation as although I spent a lot of time researching my next setup, the one area I neglected was board width.
I weigh roughly 68-69kg (150-152lbs), and am 183cm (6’0) tall with a men’s US10.5 to 11 boot. I ended up purchasing the Capita Outerspace Living in size 154, however neglected to realize that it has a very narrow waist width at only 248mm. I like a +15/-15 stance which helps but do you think I’m going to have significant issues with my boot size on this board?
I’ll be buying new boots for the upcoming season and am looking to get the 2019 Adidas Sambas which should hopefully help with their reduced footprint, looking forward to your input.
Hi Nate,
Appreciate you taking the time on this write up and answering all these questions!
I’m 178cm, 64kg, size 9.5US boots, ride mountain 70% and 30% park.
I’m looking to get a bit bigger and eventually end up around 72-77kg, which would you recommend between the 154 and 156?
Hi Andrew
Thanks for your message. Right now, I would say 154cm for sure. But if you were to put on around 10kg, then the 156 is probably the better option – though you could still ride the 154, even at 77kg – just that the 156 would be the slightly better size, then, IMO, given that you ride 70% mountain. But I feel the 156 is a bit long for you for this board at your current weight. It’s doable if you wanted to invest for your future self and you were going to be at that larger weight relatively soon. But if it’s going to be a gradual thing, then the 154 might be the better bet.
As long as you’re under 70kg, the 154 is the better size for you, IMO. Between 70kg and 72kg, it’s a bit of a coin toss between the 2 sizes and then above that the 156 is probably better, but even above that the 154 would still work. I like the 156, and I’m closer to 84kg (but also like the 158, which would be the size I would choose, if I was 70/30 Mountain/Park), so even at 77kg the 154 would be fine.
Hope this helps
Hi nate,
I have read plenty of reviews for beginner boards and always come back to this one. I’ve only done 8-10 days riding. Done some smaller jumps and park stuff. I’m 210lbs and 182cm. Whilst I was renting I was always riding 155cm and 156cm. Should I get the 154, 156 or 158?
Thanks!
Tom.
Hi Tom
Thanks for your message.
Usually I would recommend something between 158 and 160 for a someone with your specs and experience. But for the OSL I would say that you could go 156 or 158.
Just to make sure the width will be appropriate for your boot size, can you let me know your boot size?
Ah my boot size is us 11. I’m looking at plenty of other boards now. Since I am on the heavier side for my height should I go with something with a bit stiffer flex? There are plenty of boards I have been looking at these include: Burton custom Flying V, Burton process Flying V, Capita horrorscope, Capita outerspace living, Burton instigator, Salomon pulse, Salomon craft then the yes basic, Libre or typo. I understand this is a lot of boards but it’s hard to know what will suit me. I want something that I can hit the park with but also something that is easy to ride down groomed trails.
Hi Tom
Thanks for the extra info.
Yeah definitely for bigger riders, then notching up the flex a bit helps. The board will feel softer to you than someone who is lighter. Which is why I think the Outerspace Living is a good choice – it’s a medium flex, and usually I’d recommend more of a medium-soft flex for beginners.
So, IMO the Horrorscope, Instigator, Pulse and Basic are getting a bit on the soft side for you flex-wise.
The Process Flying V would be another good choice and the Custom Flying V could work too, though I think the Process Flying V is a better option for park riding and for ease of riding.
The Libre and Typo could work too, being just that little bit stiffer than the Basic, IMO.
In terms of boot size, with 11s, if you were to go for the Outerspace Living, then I think the 156 is probably too narrow. I think you could squeeze on the 158, if you ride with binding angles with a fairly angled back foot (e.g. +15/-15) – though I know you may not have settled on your preferred binding angles yet. If you’re going for the 2019 Outerspace Living it now comes in wide sizes – so if you ride with a straighter back foot and therefore need something wider, then the 157W would work well, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi mate,
Thanks so much for the reply, I’ve narrowed it down to 4 boards. The 2019 Rome mechanic which I can get for a really really good price $380au in 156 or 157w. The process Flying V $400au 157w. Salomon sight $450au 156 or 158w. Yes Libre $480au 156w. Which all happen to be in your top 15! Which of these do you think will suit me best or are they all very similar?
Thanks again!
Tom.
Thanks so much for the detailed reply nate. I’ve narrow it down to 3 boards now.
2017 The Burton process Flying V $400au (157W or 155)
2019 Rome mechanic $383au (157W or 156)
2019 Salomon sight $450au (158W or 156)
The mechanic has a rating of 6 for stiffness, would this be too stiff?
Hi Tom
If I was you, I would go 2017 Process Flying V 157W (the 155 would be too short and too narrow, IMO).
After that the Rome Mechanic 157W (which is softer than 6/10, IMO) and Sight 158W are still options, but I think you would be best off with the Process Flying V, based on everything you’ve described and your specs.
Hey Nate,
I just bought this board, based on your review and a bunch of research. I’m a beginner but progressing quickly. I found a great deal for a 156 so I went for it. Can you let me know if you think it’s the appropriate size?
I weigh 165lbs and am 170cm tall, size 8 boot.
Thanks,
Q
Hi Q
Thanks for your message.
I would have recommended the 154 for you, based on your specs, for this board. But the 156 is certainly not way too big for you. I just think the 154 would have been the best size. I would say that the 156 is appropriate but not ideal.
I thought as much… I’ll have to see how I go.
Thanks for the quick reply Nate, much appreciated!
Q
You’re very welcome!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your review which is very helpful.
I’m a beginner to intermediate player, 166cm, 156 lbs in size US8 boots. I am using a Burton Process (152) with Burton EST binding for 2 seasons.
I’m looking for an all mountain board for a bit of fun off and on piste. I can switch now and ride on both directions, and start practising some small freestyle tricks.
I am struggling in choosing between DOA and OSL and thinking of a shorter board (150). Do you think Union Altas (M) is a good match for those boards?
Please give me some advice.
Hi Fee
Thanks for your message.
To me it sounds like the OSL would be the better option for you. It is a better board for a beginner to intermediate rider – and its also a more playful ride. The DOA is more aggressive and it sounds like you’re looking for something a little more playful. Also the OSL will be easier for starting to learn freestyle tricks, IMO.
In terms of size, I think either the 150 or 152 would be a good size for you. But if you’re leaning towards learning more freestyle stuff, then the 150 would be easier for that. The 152 a little better for riding fast and in powder.
For bindings, I would look at either the Union Strata (new for 2019) or the Union Force for the OSL. The Atlas would also work, but I think the Strata or the Force would be slightly better matches. The Strata being the best for that board, IMO. And yeah size M for any Union binding for your boot size. You could also fit on a Small, but the Medium would be the best option, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
This is a really comprehensive review and useful for beginner like me. I’m planning to buy Outerspace living in a online store and would like to get advice from you as I’m struggling with the sizes.
I’m 171 cm, 135lbs in size, and I’m wearing US 8.5 DC Control boots and Flux DS M-size binding. Last season I rent a snowboard of 150cm. Knowing that Outerspace living is a narrow board, I’m wondering if 152cm one would fit my boot size?
Hi Keith
Thanks for your message.
I think the 150cm is going to be the best length for you for this board.
In terms of width, it is on he narrower side, but I think you should be fine with 8.5s, depending on your binding angles. If you ride with anything between 0 and 3 degrees on your back foot (i.e. quite a straight back foot, then I think the width is risky but any other binding angles, and I think you should be ok with DC 8.5s.
Same would apply if you went for the 152, but I think the 150 would be a better length for you.
Hope this helps
Hi nate.
I’m intermediate 183cm, 190 lbs in size us12 boots. Im thinking of the 2019 Capita OSL in the wide. I’m thinking 155 or 157 wide. I’m looking for an all mountain board for a bit of fun off and on piste. What would you suggest or have something else in mind? Thanks for your help!
Hi Ben
Thanks for your message.
Yeah sounds like from what you’re describing, that the OSL would fit the bill. Sounds like you’re looking for a fairly easy going but versatile board? I’d say that the OSL is on the freestyle end of the all-mountain scale but you can certainly take it off-piste when you want to.
Size-wise, I’d say that the 157W would be your best bet out of the 155W and 157W, assuming you’re at an intermediate level of riding. If you’re more advanced, then I’d say the 159W would be the better option (unless you have a personal preference for shorter boards, in which case you could still definitely ride the 157W).
There are lots of other options too, but I think the OSL would be a good option for you, based on that info (either 157W or 159W depending on ability/preference).
If you did want to check out some other options, check out the following:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Firstly, congratulations on your very professional, thoughtful and patient advise.
I am in the market for a new stick and would welcome your advice.
6 ft 10 US 192 lbs (with all gear)
Intermediate and better, minimal park, groomers, switch,crud and some pow/trees. Don’t do massive hits. Outerspace seems like a good fit (and price!) but I struggle for sizing sometimes. Like the idea of the 160 for float. Would I be right in thinking the 158 a little short/narrow?? Any other suggestions and sizes. Thanks in advance.
Hi Kel
Thanks for your message.
Sounds like you ride a bit of everything and the OSL is pretty versatile, so I think it would work well for what you’re describing.
In terms of size, you could definitely ride the 160, but the 158 is definitely an option too. I (6’0″, US 10s, 185lbs without gear) have ridden both the 156 and 158 of this board (2018 model) and the 156 again (2019 model) and I never had any issues with width on any of those, so I don’t think that would be an issue for you with 10s – though it would depend on binding angles. I rode them with +15/-15 (and with low profile boots). If you ride with quite a straight back foot (like 0-6 degrees) and have boots with a longer profile, then both the 156 and 158 might be pushing it, but otherwise, I’d say you’d be fine.
There would certainly be advantages of the 160 but I think the 158 would be a better balance for you overall.
~ The 160 would, like you say, float better in powder, and also be a little more stable at speed and for carves
~ The 158 would be a little more agile and a bit better for trees, IMO – and also easier to butter, press and spin
These differences would be subtle as there’s not a huge size difference here – but noticeable still.
In terms of other options, I think something that’s either All-Mountain-Freestyle (like what I’d consider the OSL) or All-Mountain would be your best bets, based on what you’re describing. You could check out the following for some ideas in those categories:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m considering buying this board but am unsure of what size to get. I weigh 130 lbs, am 5 ft 8 in tall, wear size 9.5 vans auras, and would consider myself an intermediate rider. Should I risk the narrow 150 cm board or should I consider the wider Yes Basic (149 cm)?
Hi George
Thanks for your message. And apologies for the slow response – I have been on vacation recently, and demoing lots of gear, so I’m running a bit behind on replying to comments at the moment.
That’s a tough one. I think you’re right on in terms of the lengths you’re looking at – something around 149, 150 would be a good length for you, IMO. But yeah the width on the 150 OSL is getting pretty narrow for 9.5s. You do have the fact that you have Vans boots, in your favor as they do have a nice small outersole profile. If you were to combine that with binding angles like +15/-15 or similar (i.e. a reasonable angle on the back binding) then I think you might just get away with it. But you’re certainly on the minimum there for 9.5s, IMO.
YES Basic 149 would certainly be the safer bet in that sense and I’d say you’d get on that width-wise, regardless of binding angles.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi, Nate
Thanks for the great review. I am a beginner on snowboarding. Considering the Outerspace Living as my first board.
I’m 174cm tall, weigh around 76~78 Kg and with boot size US10.
From the spec table, I thought 156 is okay for me. Do you have any suggestion?
Thank you~
Hi Roger
Thanks for your message.
As a beginner, I would say something around 153 to 155 would be the best size for you. So in the Outerspace Living’s case, I think the 154 would be the best bet. The only thing with going for the 154, is that you would need to make sure you stick to binding angles of +15/-15 or similar. If you ride with too straight a back foot, the 154 might be a bit narrow for your boots. The 156 would give you more binding angle options, but I think the 154 would be a better size for you, as a beginner.
Also, the OSL isn’t strictly a beginner board – more high-end beginner to intermediate (& up) but is certainly doable as a beginner board – but I would say stick to the 154 if you’re going to get it as your first board. Hope this helps – check out the following for more options if you’re still not decided, but if you’re decided on the OSL, I’d say 154.
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
Hope this helps
Hi, Nate
Thanks for your advice.
However, I am not a totally beginner, consider I am on high end beginner level now, I may choose 156 on OSL base on your suggestion.
However, if not considering my ability level now, is 158 more suitable for my weight / boot size if I want to use this board for longer time?
Thanks~
Hi Roger
In that case you could go 156. I would say for this particular board and your specs that 156 would also be a good length at a more advanced level. You could go 158 as well at that level, but I think the 156 would be the best size for you on balance, for both intermediate and advanced level.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for all your great content, it really helps me but at the same time makes my decisions very difficult ?
I’m 180cm tall, weigh 90Kg and have a size 12 burton boot.
I’m looking for a playful all mountain freestyle board.
I’m a intermediate rider, like to carve but at the same time like to butter and spin a little.
I’m looking at the NS ProtoType 2 (not to keen on the looks thou), the Jones mountain twin (worried this might be to stiff), Capita OS, Yes Typo, gnu Riders choice, Slash Brainstorm and maybe the Lib Tech Skate Banana although I’m not sure this will be stable enough for my carving.
I live in Asia and I can only get the JMT, the ProtoType 2 and Skate Banana in wide.
Any recommendations?
Thank you
Patrick
Hi Patrick
Thanks for your message.
With 12s you’ll definitely want to go for a wide, IMO, so that leaves it down to the MT, PT2 & Skate Banana.
I would say that the Skate Banana is probably not going to be up there for you in terms of carves, stability at speed, compared to the other 2, so I would be weighing up between the MT and the PT2. The MT is stiffer than the PT2, from my experience, but not overly stiff and you can still butter it. But that said, I think the PT2 is probably the best match for what your describing (if you can get past the looks).
If you went PT2, the 158X would be the best size for you for that board, and the style you’re describing, IMO.
For the MT, the 161W would be the best size, IMO.
You can go shorter with the PT2, as it’s got a longer effective edge (less nose and tail) than something like the Mountain Twin – which makes it better for spins than the MT too.
The 159 Standard would also be a good option too, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I can get a great deal on the Skate Banana and like how it looks. I do like to carve but won’t be going at any crazy speeds, do you think this will work? I really enjoy buttering and playing around on piste won’t be in the park to much thou.
If you think it will work, which size would be good here? On the Lib Tech website, they recommend the 156W although I was thinking of going for the 159W as it might be a little more stable?
If you don’t think it will be a good fit I will go for the PT2 but as mentioned I am not to keen on the looks, did you find the JMT considerably stiffer then the PT2?
Thank you very much for your time to reply
Hi Patrick
You can carve on the Skate Banana and it will certainly help if you’re not combining speed and carves. I just found the Skate Banana really preferred short sharp, quick turns to wide arcing carves. So not really for holding on to long carves, but you can carve but likely that you’ll want to get onto a new edge sooner than you would with a more wide carving board, if that makes sense.
Size-wise, I think the 159W would be the better bet for you. I imagine they recommend 156W because it’s more of a freestyle oriented board – and if you were going to be spending more time in the park, it would be a good size for that, but for what you’re describing the 159W would be your best bet, IMO. It should give you a bit more in terms of carving and stability.
The JMT is noticeably stiffer but not overly stiff. It’s stiffer between the feet, in my experience, than it is tip and tail – so you can still butter it. I would say 6/10, maybe pushing 6.5/10 for the JMT and 5/10 for the PT2.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Thank you so much Nate, this is very helpful.
You’re very welcome Patrick. Let me know what you end up going for.
Hi Nate
Great review and before I read this I was about to pull the trigger on the Jones Mountain Twin 157cm, but now i’m thinking this might be better suited.
I’m 6ft 190lbs and size 10UK boot. I’m a beginner / intermediate and only board a few weeks a year over winter in France. I was going for the Mountain Twin as it was something I could advance on over the years and is stable at speed. I mainly just do groomers, would like the option of a bit of powder and possibly eventually the park.
I’m now wondering about the outer space living in a 158cm as the length would give me the stability but it sounds more forgiving for someone who doesn’t want to catch an edge and will still help me progress over the years i have it.What do you think or should I just stick with the Jones?
PS I’ve also just read about the Salmon Assassin, would this be even more suited to me?
Thanks
Matt
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
I think the Outerspace Living would be suitable for you – though, the Mountain Twin would be better for those powder days. The 158 would work in terms of length for you, but my only concern would be the width. It’s probably fine if you ride with +15/-15 angles and have low profile boots (like Adidas, Burton, Vans or Ride) – but otherwise it’s probably pushing it to be too wide for UK10s. The 160 would be a safer bet, but even then, you’d want to have reasonable angles on your bindings. But I think the 160 would be too long for you at a beginner/intermediate level. The 2019 model is going to come to have wide models (155W, 157W & 159W) and I think the 157W could be an option, if you ride with a straighter back binding angle.
The Assassin too is a good option. Again, it would be the same debate as between the 158 and the 157W. Salomon boards tend to be narrower at the inserts, compared to the waist – so the 158 will likely be a little narrower at the inserts than the Outerspace Living 158. The 157W might be the best option there.
The Mountain Twin is something that I’ve never found to be catchy, but it is a little stiffer than the other options. But not by heaps. It has the advantage in powder over the other two as well. If you did go Mountain Twin, then 158W would be the safest bet, but you might get on the 157 as well, depending on your angles, and your boots reduced footprint or lack there of. In theory both the Outerspace Living and Assassin are slightly more suited to a beginner/intermediate level – but I have had people comment that they bought the Mountain Twin as beginners and loved it.
They would all be suitable, IMO – and the size would depend on those binding angles and your boots. One more thing – I would say this, performance in hard/icy conditions – Mountain Twin 4/5, Assassin 4/5, Outerspace Living 3.5/5 – just in case you get those kinds of conditions regularly, that might be another deciding factor.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I enjoy your thorough reviews.
I am an intermediate rider just learning switch and some small freestyle tricks. I rented a Salomon Craft and really enjoyed how easy the board was to ride and its playfulness. Sadly the rental shop would not sell me the Craft. The same shop does have an OSL for sale but not for rent, so I cannot try it out.
How would you compare the OSL to the Craft? Especially in Flex, im 150lbs and find most boards too stiff for me?
Expect the Best…
Hi Dale
Thanks for your message.
The Craft isn’t a board I’ve ridden, so I couldn’t say, first hand, how they compared. But Salomon rate the Craft as a “medium” flexing board. If this is accurate, then it’s likely to be very similar in terms of flex to the OSL, which I would say is right in the middle with a 5/10 flex.
What was the size of the Craft that you rode? The size will also make a difference. If you can let me know the size you rode, your height (I already have your weight) and your boot size, then I can recommend the best size, IMO, for the OSL for you, if you decided to go with it.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Definitely considering the outerspace living. I’m an intermediate rider who is torn between the 150 and 152. I currently ride the 2018 K2 Happy Hour 151 which is perfect in length. I’m 5’6″, 140lbs, size 10 boots and spend an even amount of my day riding on the mountain (glades, groomers, powder) and in the park.
I’m more oriented on taking on jumps than hitting the rails although I like to keep a balance of both (I started jibbing with my first board which was a 154). I’ve actually tried my friends DoA 150 and noticed that as playful as it was, I had to be more accurate with my landings. Because of that, I’m leaning more towards the 152. Would that be a safer bet? Thanks!
Hi Robin
Thanks for your message. Sorry for the late response – have been testing boards all weekend and today.
I think the 152 is your best bet for the Outerspace Living. For a couple of reasons. Firstly, the Outerspace Living is a narrower board – especially in the 150, 152 sizes. So going a little longer than the Happy Hour (which is wider) is a good bet, if that feels about right in terms of size for you. Also the Happy Hour 151 has an effective edge of 114.5cm whereas the Outerspace Living 152 has a 113cm effective edge – so that’s actually less than the 151 Happy Hour. If you went 150 on the Outerspace Living you’d be going down quite a bit, in terms of effective edge compared to the 151 Happy Hour. So, overall I would say that the 152 Outerspace Living will feel closer to the 151 Happy Hour, size-wise, than the 150.
The only thing is whether even the 152 Outerspace Living is too narrow for your boots. With 10s, I would usually say to only go as narrow as 247mm at the waist – and only then assuming you ride with a decent angle on your back binding (e.g. 12-15 degrees). The Happy Hour has a 247mm waist. The Outerspace Living 152 has a 243mm waist (285mm tip/tail vs 287mm tip/tail on the Happy Hour). Now I’m not 100% sure what the Outerspace Living will be at the inserts, but it’s pushing it a bit with 10s, I would say. It would also depend on the boots that you have. If you have relatively recent Adidas, Burton, Vans or Ride boots, then I would say you would get on the 152 Outerspace Living fine, so long as you ride with a decent angle on your back foot.
That would be my only concern – otherwise, I think the Outerspace Living 152 would be a great choice for you.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I appreciate all the insight, it’s totally helpful. The boots I have are the Nike Zoom Force 1 (a softer boot?) and set up with a 12 degree duck stance.
I realized I was neglecting board width as something to consider.
I was staying away from 154 because I started with the 2014 Happy Hour 154 which felt clunky at the time (I also had the Ride Revolt bindings, much heavier than the Rodeo which I use now) and couldn’t maneuver as well as I wanted but I guess I wasn’t as experienced as a rider yet. After comparing the specs between the Happy Hour 151 and Outerspace Living 152, going narrower is NOT what I want at this time. I’m actually considering keeping the 151 mainly for park days and looking at the Outerspace Living 154 for the rest of the mountain. It’s a bit more trim from the Happy Hour 154 and seems a bit closer to the 151 in terms of width.
From my gut, I did feel I was pushing it a bit with the 152 but I wanted to maintain the maneuverability and playfulness with a smaller board but something about the 154 just feels more right to me. I will give it a shot.
Hi Robin
Thanks for your reply.
Let me know how you go with the 154.