Comments

1. Brandon says

   April 20, 2021 at 9:04 am

   Hi Nate,

   First of all, thank you for all the great info and content! Super helpful! I am getting back into snowboarding again I am looking into an Arbor Shiloh for an all mountain daily driver. I need a board that I can cruise around with my kids and also something that I can use in most conditions. I see that they have both rocker and camber profiles and both have grip tech. It looks like both are rated to be good in powder? I am used to a camber board and like the edge hold, but don’t want to struggle on powder days. What would you recommend Rocker or Camber? I would say I am a intermediate to advanced rider. Not sure about the sizing. I am 5’7″ and 157lbs.

   Thank you!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 21, 2021 at 10:56 am

     Hi Brandon

     Thanks for your message.

     I prefer the camber version personally, and I think you will prefer it to, given that you’re used to camber. The Rocker will give you more float in powder, for sure, but I think overall I would go camber for you. The Rocker still has good edge hold for a rocker board, but just doesn’t have the same spring and pop as the camber version. Whilst the rocker version is an easier going more playful ride, the camber version is still nothing too technical or demanding and should be fine when riding with your kids, IMO. It’s not super stiff or anything (I would say 6/10, like the specs say, is pretty accurate).

     I wouldn’t say you’d struggle on powder days, but I wouldn’t say it’s more than average on a powder day. I wouldn’t call it good. If you were going to have powder days really regularly and more importantly if those powder days saw you in waist deep powder (or you know quite deep powder), then I think it would be something to consider. But if you’re typical powder day is more like a few inches, then I don’t think you’ll have any issues.

     Size-wise, it’s a tight call between the 153 and 156, based on height/weight. But if you could also let me know your boot size, that would help to decide between those 2 sizes.

     Reply

     • Brandon says

       April 28, 2021 at 10:46 am

       Thank you so much for your reply! I usually run about a size 9 1/2, or 10 in boots, but I am currently riding a pair of DC Munitys, which seem to run small, so I have a 10 1/2.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         April 29, 2021 at 12:36 pm

         Hi Brandon

         Thanks for the extra info. Yeah, I find DC boots tend to run small, so not surprised there. I think the 156 Shiloh is probably your best bet but it’s a close call. You’d be fine width-wise on the 153, IMO, but there would be more reason to go down to 153 if you had smaller boots. If you had size 8s, for example, then I would say 153 for sure, but with 10s/10.5s both options work still. 153 is certainly not out of range for you though and if you think you’d be more comfortable riding the shorter length, it’s definitely not wrong. Some pros and cons for each size:

         – Better float in powder and better stability at speed from the 156
         – Easier to maneuver at slower at speeds and easier for freestyle stuff and generally softer flex feel and a little mellower ride for the 153

         Reply

2. Mark says

   April 9, 2021 at 6:07 pm

   Hi Nate! I’m shopping a new board and I read a lot of your articles to help me finding the good one. I’m 5’8’’ and a half, 155lbs, my boot size are 11, I’m an advanced rider and more a freerider than a park adept. I’m looking for the burton flight attendant and I was checking the size chart. The good lenght should be the 156 but the waist widht is a little bit short for my boot size (248mm). So I was looking the 159W that is 260mm, but I’m concerned about the lenght. Is it too long? And the weight chart said that is for 150lbs and more. Am I too close to the limit?

   Thanks for your help and for your great work! All the informations tthat you publish on the web is really helpfull!

   Mark

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 11, 2021 at 2:56 pm

     Hi Mark

     Thanks for your message.

     Yeah, IMO, the 156 is going to be narrow and the 159W too big, unfortunately.

     I would look at the Hometown Hero which has a 156W which I think would be a really good size for you. It’s not the same board as the Flight Attendant, but is similar enough – and still certainly freeride oriented.

     Reply

     • Mark says

       April 13, 2021 at 10:06 am

       Thanks Nate for the feedback, I appreciate it! I looked for the hometown hero but couldn’t find it anywhere. So I checked other options like the custom 154W or but I’m not sure if it’s the good board for me (I’m more in freeriding). Do you konw if there is something pretty similar to the flight attendant or the hometown hero on the libtech side? Like the Jamie Lynn (156, waist width 159), the Dynamo (156, waist width 255 or W 265) or other models? If yes, wich one do you suggest?

       Thanks for your help!

       Reply

       • Nate says

         April 13, 2021 at 11:46 am

         Hi Mark

         Yeah, if you’re lookin for something freeride, then Custom not really that suitable, particularly if you’re looking for something that does well in powder.

         On the Lib Tech side, the Dynamo isn’t that similar, but it is what I would call freeride, but only just – but pretty close to all-mountain. Doable, but it’s quite different to the Flight Attendant – it’s softer flexing and has quite a different feel to it. Certainly doable if you’re OK with something softer and with rocker between the feet (all be it subtle rocker). If you did I would probably look at the 156W. Lib Tech boards tend to be narrower at the inserts than you expect from the waist width. The 156 is around 263mm at the inserts, which is just a little narrow for 11s, IMO. The 156W will be more like 273mm at the inserts, which is a better width for 11s, IMO.

         The Jamie Lynn isn’t a board I’ve ridden, so I couldn’t say from first hand experience, but on paper it looks closer to Flight Attendant. Still going to be quite different, but closer than the Dynamo, IMO. The 156 is likely to be a little wider than the 156 Dynamo, but could still be pushing it at the back insert. But might be doable. It’s hard to say without having actually measured the inserts on that board.

         The Ejack Knife and GNU Mullair would also be suitable but don’t have suitable sizes, IMO.

         From Burton you could look at the Deep Thinker 157W. It’s a little stiffer than the Flight Attendant, but if that’s not an issue, that’s definitely worth looking at.

         Or you could also look at some of Burton’s 3D options – the Show Stopper 154 would be a good option, IMO. It’s a wider board (without being ultra wide) and a fun ride.

         Of course there are other brand options too, but if you’re looking at those brands specifically.

         Reply

         • Mark says

           April 14, 2021 at 12:18 pm

           Thanks Nate for the recommendations! I’ve decided to order the Dynamo 156W finally. I didn’t want a board to stiff to and with some forgiveness for the hardest days. I just have one more questions for you and after, I’ll stop bothering you! Do have any suggestions of bindings that could be a great match with? There’s a deal on the Ride A8 and on the Burton Castel X. Do you think it could be a good fit or should I check for something else?

         • Nate says

           April 15, 2021 at 10:48 am

           Hi Mark

           I think those would both work with the Cartel X being the closer match. I would something around 6/10 to 7/10 in terms of flex for the Dynamo. I haven’t specifically tried the Ride A-8, but I have ridden the C-6 and I found that to 6/10 flex on them is pretty accurate. Assuming that translates into the A-8s, then they’re likely around that 8/10 flex that they state. The biggest thing with going a little too stiff with bindings on a board that’s softer, is that you can potentially get a bit of a twitchy feeling. Not sure that the A8s would be stiff enough for that, but there’s a potential. The A6 would be a closer match, IMO.

           Also check out the following for other options:

           >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

           >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

           I recently tried the 2022 Cartel X and they would be a good option, IMO – I found them to be a 7/10 flex. And will likely make the Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride list when I update it for 2022.

           Hope this helps

3. Kitz says

   March 30, 2021 at 8:45 am

   Salve,

   For the girlfriend, she is 157 cm (5’2) tall and weighs 50 kg (110lbs), already got the Burton Mint in size 6.5 US. Her skill level in between beginner and intermediate, closer to beginner. We are looking at the K2 Dreamsicle 138/Bright Lite 138 with the Union Juliet size S. The plan is that this combo will allow her to progress past beginner, well into intermediate-advanced territory over the next seasons. Do you agree with this combo and sizes ?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 30, 2021 at 11:32 am

     Hi Kitz

     Thanks for your message.

     I think that would be a really good setup for your girlfriend as something that will help her to progress quickly, but not grow out of it too soon. And the sizes for both board and bindings are spot on, IMO.

     Reply

     • Kitz says

       March 31, 2021 at 1:34 am

       Thank you, for your answer.
       I am 180 cm (5’11), 75 kg (165 lbs), and got the Burton Ruler Wide in size 10 US with a K2 Standard 158 (151 WW) and Union Flite Pro M. I am thinking to upgrade to the K2 Raygun, should I go for the 156 (247 WW) or the 157W (260 WW)? I also what to upgrade the binding to the Arbor Hemlock, do you find it to be a good match, what other all mountain bindings should I look into?

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 31, 2021 at 10:33 am

         Hi Kitz

         Yes the Hemlock would be a good match to the Raygun, IMO.

         Size-wise for the Raygun for your specs, length-wise, around that 156-157 is a good bet, IMO.

         Width-wise, I think you probably get away with the 156 with Burton Ruler 10s. And I think going 157W is getting too wide. In terms of the 156, it’s borderline being too narrow, but some things to consider:

         1. Binding angles. If you ride with something like +15/-15 or similar – anything with a reasonable amount of angle on the back foot that will give you more leeway (I say back foot just because the front foot is always on more of an angle or the same but never less of an angle). With a straighter back binding angle, that means higher risk of boot drag.

         2. How deep you carve. If you really like to get high on your edges and carve deep, then there’s more risk of boot drag.

         The Raygun/Hemlock is certainly a step up from the Standard/Flite Pro, but it’s a small step up, IMO. Depending on your ability level currently, you might be able to upgrade a little more. But if you feel like you want to take a small step up and are happy to do that, the Raygun/Hemlock works as a small step. But if you feel like you’re at an intermediate level, you could go a little more than that, if you wanted to.

         Reply

4. Corey says

   March 29, 2021 at 11:00 am

   Hello Nate,

   Thanks for putting these guidelines together and for all the advice for reference above. I’m a beginner but have picked up snowboarding pretty fast in the last couple times I’ve gone. I’d like to invest in a nice board that will be good for me for a the next couple seasons as I progress. I usually ride at resorts and would like to get into some jumps eventually.

   I am 6’0 185-190 lbs and wear a size 11.5. So far I’ve ridden a 155W and 157W rental in 11.5 boots and it felt pretty good but when I look at charts it’s kind of hard to tell what to go with at this point. I’m looking at the Salomon Sleepwalker 2021 and can’t decide between the 155W or the 158W. I also picked up some Union Flight Pro bindings in a seize large but don’t have boots yet. From my specs and this board what would you recommend?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 30, 2021 at 10:22 am

     Hi Corey

     Thanks for your message.

     It’s a tight call between those sizes for the Sleepwalker. Being a freestyle oriented board, I would be leaning 155W. That way, once you’ve progressed past it as your do everything/progression board, you could keep it as your freestyle deck and size up to a more all-mountain board. I think as an all-mountain board, the 158W is the better size for you, but being a freestyle oriented board, you can and probably should size-down (effective edge versus overall length of board is higher in a freestyle board – less board outside the contact points) – and as a beginner, even a fast progressing beginner, I think the 155W works better for this board. I would say probably 156-158 if you were looking at an all-mountain board, but for this I would go 155W.

     The Flite Pros should match well with the Sleepwalker, IMO and are great beginner bindings, so good choice there, IMO.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Corey says

       March 30, 2021 at 4:35 pm

       Thanks a lot Nate. I decided to go with the 155W. What do you think of the K2 Rosko Boa Boots?

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 31, 2021 at 10:05 am

         Hi Corey

         The Rosko Boa make very good beginner boots and would be a good flex match to the rest of your setup. They’re probably something you would want to upgrade from fairly quickly, as they might feel a bit soft after a while, but other than that I think they will work well with your setup for sure.

         Reply

5. Jonathan says

   March 23, 2021 at 8:08 am

   Hey Nate, so my height is 5’9 and I weigh 150. I was looking at getting the academy graduate board and was looking at the 150cm and 154cm. And I would say that my style is all mountain but eventually implement freestyle. Although I enjoy carving a lot also. Which size do you think I should go with?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 24, 2021 at 2:36 pm

     Hi Jonathan

     Thanks for your message.

     I would say go 154, as an all-mountain length for you, assuming at least a solid intermediate level of riding. If you were going to be riding it predominantly freestyle, then 150 would be an option, but for an all-mountain size, I’d go 154.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

6. Preet says

   March 17, 2021 at 4:55 pm

   Hey! I am just beginner i bought used burton board 160 w and my height 6 ft weight 65 kg .i have been Going on the mountain for like month and i am good with the heel edge but I couldn’t do any turns’s properly. My show size is 10.5 do you think it’s because of the board. Any suggestions you could give like what boots or board should i try as a beginner.

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 18, 2021 at 11:25 am

     Hi Preet

     Thanks for your message.

     In my opinion, the board is quite a bit too long for you – and probably too wide as well. With 10.5s you’re kind of in between wide and regular width and it would depend on the board and your boots which to go with – and if you do go wide, then sizing down a little in length is a good idea to compensate, when your on the cuff like that.

     But firstly, in terms of length, it’s too big for your weight. With your specs, I would be looking at more like 155, even at a more advanced level. As a beginner, you could even go to like 152. Length is more about weight (and ability and your style of riding) than it is about height. Height is a very old school way to look at sizing – and a lot of rental places still do it off height, which is annoying because a lot of people get the wrong idea on sizing. I guess because it’s a fast way to size.

     So yeah, unfortunately I think the size is well off, IMO, and going smaller is really going to help. I would look at the following, and go for something no longer than 155.

     >>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners

     Hope this helps

     Reply

7. Mike says

   March 14, 2021 at 9:07 pm

   Hi!

   I haven’t read though the years of comments, but has anyone brought up width? I”m 180 6-0 size 12.5 boot, bulky nitros. so looking at the DF boards from Never Summer. I ride all-mountain, pow, steeps, trees, zero park. Currently have 162W x 27 Nitro Team Exposure, Twin hybrid rocker. Considering west bound 157 or 160DF. Question is, does width play a factor in stability at speed? Does extra surface area matter when you are on edge railing turns on chunky snow? The benefit to riding a 157 x 28 would be great on steeps and tech terrain and trees, but would suffer on fast groomers, ice and uneven snow. Seems like a 160 would be the call for a one board quiver.. Thanks for any thoughts ?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 15, 2021 at 11:34 am

     Hi Mike

     Thanks for your message.

     Yeah width is super important, IMO. You can find the sister discussion to this post here.

     In terms of stability at speed, for the most part it’s about length rather than width (and other factors of course, like camber profile, flex etc, but between length and width it’s more down to the length). For the reason that you allude to – when you’re on edge, the width of the board does nothing essentially for stability at speed. When you’re flat basing yes, and when you’re in powder, for sure. But when you’re really bombing on hard pack, it’s a non-factor really – and as you know if you want control when bombing, you want to be on an edge, not flat basing.

     For your specs, the size you’re used to riding and how you like to ride I would be leaning 160DF. The 157DF would certainly give you more maneuverability for the likes of trees but overall, I think 160DF. You could also consider the 161X, if you felt that your boots would do OK on that. If you have bulky 12.5s and really like to rail your carves, it might be pushing it width-wise. In a low profile 12, you’d be all good, IMO, on the 161X, I would say.

     Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

     Reply

8. BRIAN J ANDERSON says

   March 8, 2021 at 5:33 pm

   Great article. I’m 5’10 190-195lb size 10.5-11 boot depending on brand. Just in the beginning stages of intermediate level. Will stick to the mountain more than park and would like to work through trees at some point. I really like the Never Summer Proto Synthesis. What length would you recommend? Thank you!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 10, 2021 at 11:01 am

     Hi Brian

     Not sure if you saw my other response on the Proto Synthesis review, but I have copy pasted that response below, in case you haven’t seen it yet.

     Hi Brian

     For your specs, I would go either 158 or 157X.

     It’s a tough one with that boot size, but I would say:

     – If you’re in relatively low profile 10.5s, with binding angles similar to +15/-15 (something with a decent angle on the back foot, doesn’t have to be as much as 15 degrees), then you should be OK with the 158.
     – If you’re in 11s OR if you have bulky 10.5s OR you have relatively low profile 10.5s and ride with a pretty straight back binding angle, then I would go 157X.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

9. Dan says

   March 1, 2021 at 9:02 pm

   I think your charts are probably spot on… I am 5’8 and I started with a thinner flexible light weight board around 154 or so… I could maneuver it awesome, but it was slow and I had a really hard time keeping up with friends.. I bought a stiffer Burton Balance 165, and boy is it fast… it will also drift through flat areas quickly where the old one would stall out and stick… but, it takes a lot of effort to throw it back and forth, and it is also much heavier and thicker than my first board. I wish I had the same board in a 158 now… you live and you learn, lol…

   Reply

10. Shelley says

    February 14, 2021 at 9:27 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks for sharing your knowledge with this fantastic info and so many thoughtful personalized suggestions too!

    I’m shopping for my first board; I’m a beginner and riding small groomers in the Midwest. Just beginning to link turns, slowly slowly. Looking at the 2021 DC Biddy and, after reading all you’ve shared, I’m wondering if the 140 or 144 would be a better fit? What do you think? I’m 5’4”-5’.5”, weigh about 120 max, women’s boot size 8. I’ve rented several times at 144-145 (because that’s what they gave me per my specs) and once at 140 but I was too new to really tell much difference specific to the board size given the different location and snow conditions that day.

    Also- Is the DC Biddy a good choice for me to start with? It appears to be fairly soft with a rocker base (from what I’ve found so far, it’s specs say medium flex but reviews say it’s softer). And does a more flexible board mean I should seek more flexible boots & bindings too? I’m not seeking speed or anything aggressive; right now I just want to learn safely and develop confidence and ease on piste. Does that sound boring, ha!? I’m a solo mom and my seven year old is also just beginning to snowboard (we’ve recently moved to a place where there are several small ski resorts around) so right now safety and a solid foundation are my priorities, and he’ll often be with me as we play and learn. I’m seeking the best setup to learn quickly with ease and gain confidence, both for my own enjoyment and also because I imagine it won’t be too long before I’m chasing him to keep up 😉

    Thanks so much for your suggestions!

    Shelley

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 16, 2021 at 4:14 pm

      Hi Shelley

      Thanks for your message. They definitely learn fast at that age, so I see where your coming from for sure!

      I don’t test many DC boards, so I don’t know for sure, but if the consensus is that it’s a little softer than medium, assuming that’s the case, then it looks, on paper like a good beginner option.

      Size-wise, it’s a tough call between those sizes. I think the 140 would be the quickest in terms of progression to learn on, if you’re a complete beginner. But if you’re more of a high-end beginner, then I might lean more towards the 144.

      And yeah, best to go with similar flexing boots and bindings. I would probably try to look for something 4/10 flex, rather than 3/10 or less, based on the board, but I think 4/10 flex would work, assuming the board is around that. Some options:

      >>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings

      >>My Top Women’s Beginner Boots

      I can give you other options for boards too, if you didn’t end up going with the Biddy, but it looks like a good option to me, assuming it’s a little softer than its 5/10 rating.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

11. Alan H. says

    February 13, 2021 at 5:55 pm

    Hey Nate I’m looking to buy a new snowboard I’m 5’3,135, & size 7.5 boots. I’m a beginner as well Ive been going to big bear and mountain high mostly

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 15, 2021 at 2:24 pm

      Hi Alan

      Thanks for your message.

      I would say something around 145-147 would be a good range to look at for your specs, as a beginner. Width-wise, around 235-243mm at the waist ideally. But would depend on specific boards. Some options for beginner boards to look at:

      >>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners

      Hope this helps

      Reply

12. Josiah Fisher says

    February 12, 2021 at 8:39 pm

    Hey Nate, I’m currently looking at getting a new board, I would say I’m a beginner to intermediate rider. I’m 5’11” and 170 lbs and wear a size 10.5 boot, would you say a 156 to 158 would be good for me? my style of riding is mostly carving and all around cruising and I’m looking at getting into jumps as well. One board I have been looking at is an Arbor westmark camber in the 157 midwide. Thanks

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 13, 2021 at 3:14 pm

      Hi Josiah

      Yeah size-wise, I would say 156-158 is a good range to look at.

      The Westmark Camber might be doable but I’d say it’s borderline in terms of high-end beginner bordering on intermediate level. Size-wise, 157MW is maybe the best size for that board, however the 156 is also a possibility. The 157 is what they call a mid-wide, but it’s as wide as most other brands wide boards in around that 157 length. And the Westmark is quite wide at the inserts versus the waist. I think the 156 is doable width-wise (264mm at the inserts) depending on the boot you ride (some are more low profile than others) and your binding angles. The 157MW is bordering on being too wide.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

13. Dan says

    February 12, 2021 at 3:22 pm

    Hey Nate,
    I’m looking for new general purpose board. I ride groomers, powder and trees. Currently I have two boards, an old Burton Process Rocker 157 with Missions and a Niche Story 159 with Cartels. The Burton doesn’t always have the best edge control (not bad), but it’s super easy to control and works in wide range on conditions including trees. The Niche is good board providing you’re at speed, and works in well on hard/icy conditions. I wouldn’t take it in trees, and you have to muscle the turns at slower speeds. It’s stiff the entire length.

    I am 5-10, 163-167 lbs, 10-10.5 boot and ride mostly in Utah. I consider myself intermediate. I’m considering a Burton Daily Driver that comes in a 155 and 159. I’m also considering going stepon but not sold. If I went stepon I’d consider either a Photon or Swath with their RE:Flex.

    What do you think? Thoughts about the board? 155 or 159?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 13, 2021 at 2:50 pm

      Hi Dan

      Thanks for your message.

      I haven’t ridden the Daily Driver yet, but I literally have one sitting next to me ready to take out. But won’t be getting it out until Tuesday.

      On paper, given what you’re describing, I think the Daily Driver would work. For your specs, particularly given you like to ride trees a lot, I would be leaning 155.

      My prediction is that it will be better than something like Process Rocker in terms of edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, but not to the same level as something like the Story.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Dan says

        February 15, 2021 at 8:29 am

        Thanks! I’ll look forward to your review of the Daily Drive

        Reply

      • Dan says

        March 1, 2021 at 1:46 pm

        Hey Nate, Did you have a chance to take the Daily Driver for some turns? If so, any initial thoughts?
        Thanks!
        Dan

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 2, 2021 at 12:08 pm

          Hi Dan

          Yes, I have taken the Daily Driver out! And I liked it. I rode the 155.

          I would say it’s around a 7/10 in terms of flex (bordering on 7.5). Not easy to butter/press and not super forgiving of skidded turns. You can get away with it to an extent but can punish you a little. It’s not super nimble at slow speeds, but it’s not bad either, particularly for its flex. Really nice on a carve and nice and stable at speed. It’s a more smooth feeling ride than a snappy one. Stomps landings on jumps and has a good bit of pop. Not super hard to access that pop, but you’ve got to put a little bit in, as is typical of stiffer boards. Fun in powder and smashes through crud well. Not amazing in trees, but not bad either. It’s got what I would call a semi-locked in feel and the edge-hold in hard/icy conditions certainly better than something like the Process Rocker, but nothing like the likes of the Niche Story.

          I’d say the 155 Daily Driver would be in between the Process Rocker 157 and Story 159 in terms of stiffness and feel, but closer to the Story for sure. I didn’t feel like I had to muscle turns at slow speeds on the Daily Driver, but overall it did prefer to be ridden fast versus slow. The Story in 159 for your specs is, IMO, quite a beast. In the 156 I think it would be more manageable at slower speeds for you. If you did go Daily Driver I would go with the 155. And that would give you a bit of balance between your current boards. Not going to be as easy to maneuver in trees as the Process Rocker, IMO, but should be easier than the 159 Story.

          If you ended up going Step On, I would go for Photon. It would be a good flex match for the Daily Driver, IMO. The Swath a little soft for it, I would say.

          Reply

          • Dan says

            March 4, 2021 at 8:03 am

            Nate – That is an incredibly helpful review, you’ve got me dialed-in and potentially saved me both some money and time. I will not pull the trigger on the Daily Driver without demo’ing first.
            Thanks again!

          • Nate says

            March 4, 2021 at 1:15 pm

            You’re very welcome Dan.

14. nick says

    February 9, 2021 at 10:42 pm

    hi nate, im 5’10, 135 pounds and wear a size 9 boot. I wanted to get the 2020 version of the CAPiTA Horrorscope and the only sizes that seem to be left for that model is a 149 and a 153. I was leaning more towards the 149 which has a weight range of 90-150 vs the 153 of 110-170. Do you think the 149 will be good for all around riding and not too squirly?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 10, 2021 at 1:41 pm

      Hi Nick

      Thanks for your message.

      I would say 149 would be a really good length for your specs for this board, if you were doing mostly freestyle. For all-round riding I would be looking more at 151 or 153. 151 probably ideal, but 153 certainly doable. Since you’re looking for all-round riding, I would be leaning to 153 over 149, but if there is a strong freestyle focus in your riding, then 149 would be a good size.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • nick says

        February 14, 2021 at 12:48 pm

        thanks for the response! after looking around, I was drawn to the Bataleon line up, in particular, the wallie and disaster. In my last comment, I didn’t mention that although I want a board that will be good for all mountain, and be able to ride some pow, I would say I will be riding park probably 60-70%. Would you still recommend 151 for the go to size compared to a 148?
        Much appreciated man, thanks.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 15, 2021 at 2:58 pm

          Hi Nick

          With 60-70% park, that’s a tough call. The 151 would certainly suit you better in pow and for stability at speed, but 148 would give you that lighter, easier to spin, easy to throw around, pop etc, easier to butter and jib with. I would say your all-mountain size is 152 give or take, and your purely park size 3-6cm smaller than that. So, it’s a really tough call. Since these boards aren’t that well suited to powder or speed (IMO, on paper, as I don’t test Bataleon gear currently), going to 151 would give you a little bit more in those areas, where these boards would be weakest at the slight sacrifice of how they go in the park. Also, if in the park, you’re hitting big jumps quite a bit, then 151 would give you a bit more stability for those. Just not quite as suited for more playful/creative jibbing/buttering stuff.

          Reply

          • nick says

            February 15, 2021 at 4:35 pm

            Ok sounds good, gives me something to think about. Thanks for your input and the info!

          • Nate says

            February 17, 2021 at 12:48 pm

            You’re very welcome Nick. Happy riding!

15. Vanessa says

    February 8, 2021 at 1:26 pm

    Hi!
    I’m looking at the K2 first lite as my first board. I’m a bit confused at what size would be the best for me. When I went to the store, the sales person only made me stand with the board and told me that the one that comes around my chin would be the right size. Reading this site and many others, that doesn’t seem totally accurate… I’m an absolute beginner, 5’3, 110 lbs, size 7 (women) boots. Just looking to get down the mountain, not doing any fancy tricks 😉 I’m hesitating between the 138 cm and 142 cm.
    Any help would be appreciated!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 9, 2021 at 3:47 pm

      Hi Vanessa

      Thanks for your message.

      That’s the old way to do it and the lazy way. Makes it very easy for sales people (or at rental stores) to quickly decide on sizing. And also I think there’s some stigma around asking for someone’s weight, that still makes people do it the old way. But height is the least important factor for sizing, IMO. Weight, boot size, ability and riding style way more important.

      For you, as a beginner, I would be leaning towards the 138. If you were a more advanced rider, I would say closer to 142 is better, but as a beginner it’s a good idea to take off 3-5cms, IMO. So, whilst the 142 wouldn’t be completely wrong for you, I would go 138.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Vanessa says

        February 10, 2021 at 2:50 pm

        It does, thank you! That’s what I was leaning toward, after doing a bit of research, but the salesman told me it was too short for me and that made me insecure about my choice and hold off the purchase.
        Thanks again!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 11, 2021 at 1:59 pm

          You’re very welcome Vanessa. Happy riding!

          Reply

16. Jess says

    February 8, 2021 at 8:57 am

    Shoot, I think I made a mistake in buying my new board this year 🙁 I had a GNU board 10+ years ago, my first board ever, I think it was men’s, it was rather stiff (I’m a woman) and it was a 147. Never felt right. Snowboard lengths back then were determined a bit different.

    I ended up buying a new board real fast this year and couldn’t easily find a size chart and the first site I went to still gave me about a 147 but having done several other size charts, I think I should have gotten a 144.

    I got a K2 Spellcaster women’s 147, camber twin medium flex 5/10. I ride on ski hills, hit the park (jumps/mounds only so far) sometimes, I’m an intermediate, do little pops here and there, ride at about a 20-30km/h speed max, finally understood carving with my new board. I think I should have gone with a 144. I’m between 5’3-5’4″, around 117lbs (no gear on). I finally found the K2 catalog and in there, the size chart is buried (not on their product page though).

    I think I should have gotten a 144 :\ Please tell me I didn’t f-up!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 8, 2021 at 1:08 pm

      Hi Jess

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah, IMO, 144 would have been the better size for you, based on specs – and on how you ride, ability and everything.

      But the one saving grace is that you’re used to that kind of length – and you’re used to it in a stiffer board by the sounds of it. So, even at the same size, but in a softer easier going board, it’s going to be better suited – and if you were riding a men’s board, then chances are that it was also too wide for you – so your 147 is probably overall smaller. So yeah, I think 144 would have been more ideal, but if you’re feeling comfortable on the 147, then I think you get away with it. If it was easy to exchange, then I’d look at getting the 144, but if not and you feel comfortable, it’s still sounds like a more suitable ride than you had previously.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jess says

        February 8, 2021 at 4:12 pm

        shoot, good to know for next time I suppose, the 144 was available too when I was purchasing but with COVID restrictions and stores being closed and all, I just got the 147 and didn’t think much of it. And it isn’t possible to return it or exchange it :\

        I’m also a size 8 boot (Nitro Crown TLS) if that makes any difference
        Is there any advantage to this longer board? Would I have truly felt much difference between the 144 and 147? Will it make it that much harder if and when I eventually progress to some more park tricks and or spins?

        There is also a lot of other specs I wasn’t aware of in choosing boards (effective length, the radius) – the 144 is still “better” given my riding style?

        So strange because I’m pretty sure back in the day when I purchased my first board yearssssss ago, choosing board lengths was very different. I recall 147 being actually on the short side and I still had that in the back of my mind.

        Thank you again! This site has been very helpful and detailed and I appreciate how you’ve gone through so many of these comments to help us all (Just wish I found this sooner >.<)

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 9, 2021 at 4:15 pm

          Hi Jess

          With 8s you are good on either the 144 or 147.

          I definitely notice a difference from 3cm. It’s not massive, but it’s definitely noticeable, IMO. The longer version will make it harder for butters, presses and spins. It’s on a relatively subtle level, but still definitely noticeable.

          Back in the day board length was based mainly on height, which is kind of strange, when you think about it. The board feels your weight on it, but it doesn’t feel your height. Sizing also depends largely on riding style. E.g. if you wanting to bomb most of the time and/or ride in deep powder, then going longer makes sense as it helps with stability at speed and float in powder – but typically at the detriment of maneuverability at slower speeds, butterability, etc.

          If you were mostly riding fast and in deep powder, and more big mountain, then 147 would be in range for sure and you’d then likely go for a freeride board too.

          But it’s also important to re-iterate that what you’re used to riding also plays a part. If you were coming in cold, I would say definitely go 144 or smaller, but given what you’re used to, that should also influence your decision – and since you’re used to riding longer, I think you’ll be fine on the 147. If you really struggle in the park, then later on you could try to pick up something cheap that’s shorter. In that case, I would probably go even shorter – like closer to 140, and use it as your dedicated park/freestyle board.

          Reply

      • Jess says

        February 8, 2021 at 4:27 pm

        the crappy thing is I just checked and I had actually written the snowboard shop on FB messenger with my weight and height and asked if the K2 spellcaster 147 was good for me, and they must have glossed over the 147 and just said yes it’s a great board and it’ll suit me

        Reply

17. Tom says

    January 31, 2021 at 6:26 pm

    Hey there,

    All the information here is great. I’ve been riding the same board since I’ve been in high school and it is time for an upgrade, but I’m a little lost when it comes to sizing. I am an intermediate to advanced rider who spends most of his time in the park or on groomed trails. Now I haven’t grown much taller since high school, but have grown a bit the other way. At 5’5″ and 160lb I am looking at a board between 148-152. I am worried that the lower end I may be a bit heavy for, but the higher end I may be a bit short for. I also ride most often in the northeast in less than ideal (icy) conditions. Any direction would be super helpful!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 1, 2021 at 12:49 pm

      Hi Tom

      Thanks for your message.

      Size-wise, I would be looking at at least 150 and up to 154, depending on how much time you spend in the park versus groomers and also how you like to ride the groomers. If you tend to like to bomb the groomers and lay down deep carves and in general ride quite aggressive, and don’t spend that much of your time in the park, then I would be erring on the longer end of that range. If you’re a little more casual or prefer to find natural features on the groomers (side-hits etc) and not straight line bomb it that often, and/or if you spend quite a bit of your time in the park, then I would err on the shorter end. You could even go as short as 148, then if you’re predominantly in the park and pretty casual/freestyle on the groomers.

      How you spend your time will also depend on the board you get too. If you’re more of the freestyle/playful type riding, even when on groomers, then I would be looking:

      >>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards

      If you like to ride a little faster/carvier on the groomers, then:

      >>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Tom says

        February 1, 2021 at 2:04 pm

        Thanks, Nate. That helps a lot.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 2, 2021 at 12:46 pm

          You’re very welcome Tom. Happy riding!

          Reply

      • Andres vega says

        February 8, 2021 at 11:07 am

        Hey Nate, I’m looking at the ride agenda but can’t decide on the length of either 152 or 155. I’m a beginner rider, 5’5 160lbs. And size 9 boot, looking to figure out which would be best for me.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 8, 2021 at 1:23 pm

          Hi Andres

          Thanks for your message.

          As a beginner I would go 152 for your specs. And if you keep the board in the long run, that will be a great size for you as a park/freestyle board. And if you don’t get into park/freestyle, it’s something you can sell if you decide to upgrade later.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

18. Alicia says

    January 31, 2021 at 1:11 pm

    Hi Nate!

    You are amazing for answering all these comments. I wanted to buy a board myself and needed some help. I am 5’7 around 150 lbs female. Was wondering what length to get and if you had recommendations of boards for around a beginner level 4. I usually go to Big Bear or Mammoth in California.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 1, 2021 at 12:02 pm

      Hi Alicia

      Thanks for your message.

      At a beginner level 4, I would say probably around 149-152, depending on the style of board you went for. If you don’t have any specific style of riding that you’re leaning towards or want to keep things versatile, then I would go either all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle. If you think you want to get more into freestyle/park riding, then a freestyle board would be a good option too. The following is a list I created for that high-end beginner to low intermediate:

      >>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards

      Hope this helps

      Reply

19. Jack says

    January 28, 2021 at 2:35 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks so much for the instruction and guidance!

    I am 5’10” and 155 lbs with size 7 men’s boots. I am looking for a powder (and probably sometimes all mountain) board and I found Arbor Clovis Women’s 152cm (24.2 waist width, 90-174lbs suggested weight) seems to be an ok fit. This is the longest size they have. My only concern is that the length of the board seems to a bit short. I usually ride on a 155cm Arbor Swoon Camber. Hope to know your thoughts! I would also appreciate if you have any other recommended powder boards for my boot size.

    Really appreciate your help.

    Best,
    Jack

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 29, 2021 at 5:17 pm

      Hi Jack

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the width on the Clovis would be great for your boot size, but the length is getting a bit small, particularly if you’re looking for powder float. I would try getting closer to that 154-157 range.

      I think the NS Lady West 156 and the Jones Women’s Flagship 155 would both be great options. Or you could also look at the Burton Family Tree Sensei 156. The Sensei is designed to be narrower.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jack says

        January 30, 2021 at 2:23 pm

        Thank you for your reply Nate! I did consider Jones Women’s Flagship. But after looking at your review, the 8/10 flex scares me a bit as I am an intermediate rider still. What do you think?

        Thanks again and have a great weekend.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 1, 2021 at 10:37 am

          Hi Jack

          I think in reality you’re probably going to feel it at around a 7/10 flex. Similar with the Lady West.

          Reply

20. Sean says

    January 25, 2021 at 8:56 am

    Hello Nate,
    Thank you for all the great information & tips. This page has been very resourceful. I began to snowboard in my much younger years and had over 15+ years off. I would consider myself somewhere in between an intermediate snowboarder. I just recently took my 15 y/o son up to the mountain for a weekend for his first time. He did great and loved it!. I am now interested in getting us some gear. I am 5’11”-190lbs-Size 11 and my son is 6’3″-190lbs-Size 11. We are both all mountain freestyle riders. What size boards would you recommend? Also do you have any recommendations for first time boards, boots & bindings? I’ve taken an eye to the Step On bindings. Thanks again for all the great help!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 25, 2021 at 3:16 pm

      Hi Sean

      Thanks for your message.

      Size-wise, for you, I’d look in that 156-159 range and for your son, similar. Maybe 157-159. He’s a little taller, and I do like to take height into account, but it’s the least important factor, and given that he’s less experienced (easier to go with a shorter board), I think it evens out to a similar length.

      In terms of the board, I think the following would be a good bet to look at:

      >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

      Given that you describe your style as all-mountain-freestyle, the Capita Outerspace Living, the YES Typo, NS Snowtrooper or Burton Process Flying V (the last 3 listed as all-mountain but you could also argue them to be classified as all-mountain-freestyle). If you encounter icy conditions quite often, the Typo and Snowtrooper would be my picks there.

      If you wanted to go a little more advanced, you could also check out:

      >>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

      But those would be a steeper learning curve.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

21. Johnny says

    January 22, 2021 at 7:43 am

    Hi Nate,
    Was hoping you can give me some expert advice on my first board purchase. I would consider myself and advanced beginner, 6’1″, 170 pounds, having a size 12 boot, with the goal of riding mostly groomed hard snow, occasional night time icy, in the Eastern US-not much powder. Not into too much freestyling, just keeping up with my kids on the trails. I found a couple of boards but was debating on the right size. I usually ride -15, 15 duck stance, and sometimes switch riding. I would rather have a one board quiver, a board that will help me progress and keep. What do you think about:

    Nitro Prime 158cm (256 waist width) flat camber w/rocker tails (new) directional twin, extruded base
    Nitro Prime 156W (268waist width)
    Nitro Prime 159W (270mm waist width)

    Fifth Element Grid 158W (261 ww), directional twin, flat camber w/rocker tails, extruded base
    Fifth Element Raven Supreme 155W, 158W, (width unknown) true twin, flat camber w/ rocker tails, extruded base

    others I’m considering:
    Public General 157 cm (251 waist width) flat camber w/ rocker tails (new) directional twin, sintered base
    Yes Libre 156W (256 waist width), hybrid camber (used) directional twin extruded base
    Rossignol OneMag (older model) 156cm (253 waist width) sintered base (used), intermediate/advanced

    I am leaning more on the Nitro and Fifth Element boards due to lower price and my lower experience level. The others are more expensive but have positive reviews and popularity. The Rosignol OneMag says advanced to expert, but had positive reviews for harder snow riding

    I just want a good board that I can enjoy and progress on without having to buy another any time soon.
    Your recommendation is highly appreciated.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 22, 2021 at 11:14 am

      Hi Johnny

      Thanks for your message.

      I don’t test Fifth Element or Public boards and really don’t know anything about them, so I can’t really comment there.

      The Nitro Prime is a very good option as a beginner board, IMO. It’s one that you might potentially feel like you grow out of quite quickly though, in terms of progression. That would be the only question mark on that one. Otherwise a great option.

      The Libre, IMO, is a great option for that high-end beginner to low intermediate rider that wants something to last a long time through their progression.

      The One LF (previously called the One Magtek, so I’m guessing it’s quite an old model) isn’t what I would consider Advanced to Expert personally, but also not really high-end beginner either. I would say Intermediate to Expert.

      Size-wise, I think something in the ranger 156-158 would be your best bet – and with 12s, I would go wide for sure.

      So if you went Nitro Prime, I would go 156W. 158 will likely be too narrow.

      The 156 Rossi One will also be too narrow, IMO.

      The 156W Libre would be my pick of those options for you (also good in hard/icy conditions).

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Johnny says

        January 23, 2021 at 9:27 am

        Thank you very much for taking time to help me out.
        If I went with the 156W instead of 158 in the Nitro, would it still be stable enough at speed when carving the hills?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 23, 2021 at 2:21 pm

          Hi Johnny

          Won’t be quite as stable at speed at least not when carving, but for your specs, I still think it will be enough. Note though that this board isn’t one that will be super stable at speed anyway. It’s just the reality of a softer flexing board. Typically makes the board easier to handle at slower speeds, but not as stable at high speeds. But up to certain speeds, it should be stable enough in the 156W versus 158.

          Reply

22. Matt Overholt says

    January 21, 2021 at 9:45 am

    Hi Nate,
    I’m a beginner snowboarder, 5’10, usually somewhere between 175-180 lbs. I’m looking at the K2 Standard board and I can’t decide the length I should go with. I’m leaning towards either the 152 or 155, but I was interested in your advice. I imagine that my future holds mainly just riding with hopefully learning a few basic tricks and jumps as I progress. Any advice would be appreciated.

    Thanks,
    Matt

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 21, 2021 at 11:42 am

      Hi Matt

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the 155 would be just right. The 152 a bit too short, even as a beginner. I would go 155. But just to make sure it’s an appropriate width, can you also let me know your boot size.

      Reply

      • Matt Overholt says

        January 21, 2021 at 12:10 pm

        Should have included that: boot size is size 9. Thanks for the quick response!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 22, 2021 at 10:54 am

          Thanks Matt. 155 would be a great width for 9s, so definitely 155, IMO.

          Reply

23. Maria says

    January 17, 2021 at 10:09 am

    Hey Nate,

    This was super informational! I’m a very beginner snowboarding but really looking to pick it up more frequently and improved. I’m 5’6’’ around 140-145lbs and I’m not really sure on my riding style yet. I’m looking to get the Nitro board (if I can find it online) but unsure of what the best length for me would be. Also looking to pair the board with the Union Rosa bindings. Thoughts? Any recs are welcome, or if you think another board or binding would be better, too!

    Thanks so much for all your help!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 18, 2021 at 3:54 pm

      Hi Maria

      Thanks for your message.

      If you’re referring to the Nitro Lectra, then that’s a great beginner choice, IMO as is the Union Rosa for beginner bindings.

      In terms of size, I would look at the range 144-147, so for the Lectra, the 146 would be a great option. If you can’t find the Lectra, also check out, for more options:

      >>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards

      The style of each board is labelled, so if you want all-mountain (which is a good way to go if you’re not sure of style yet – or all-mountain-freestyle) you can see which ones I would classify as being that.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

24. Pablo says

    January 8, 2021 at 3:40 pm

    Hi Nate,
    first of all big thank you for shedding some light on the marketing BS of snowboarding brands

    I hope I can ask you a quick opinion on the following matter. I tested today a (158 Wide) Burtom Custom Camber board that I really really liked. I (38M) am a 5’9″ (175cm) 160lbs (73Kg), so I’d be in the 154-157 range.

    The thing is that, due to my boot size, 11-12 US, the board setup would be a wide one. On this setup, there is only the 154W and 158W sizes, the latter being the one I tested. I want to buy the board and now I wonder whether I should get the smaller one?

    I am an beginner-intermediate rider, I do mostly groomed slopes with medium-hard/icy snow, I like some carving, none of park, but also would like to get into a bit of buttering tricks and small jumps (a la Ryan Knapton style). For the carving riding style I think the 158W would be better (more stable, more edging -plus is also the one I tried and loved-), but for the buttering part I think the 154W would be more approapiate?

    Any help much appreciated! Thanks!
    Pablo

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 9, 2021 at 2:29 pm

      Hi Pablo

      Thanks for your message.

      It’s certainly a tough call. For your specs and given that you’re at that beginner/intermediate level, I would be leaning 154W for you. But given that you’ve tested and liked the 158W, that does give reason to look at that. And yeah you’re certainly right that the 158W will be more stable and better for big carves and the 154W better/easier to butter and easier to pop with.

      Another thing to consider is the width. If you’re in 12s, then the 154W is potentially still too narrow for 12s, even though it’s a wide board. It’s not that wide. It would be a great width for 11s. But if you end up in 12s, then I think the 158W would be the better call, because the 154W could potentially cause some drag issues with 12s if you’re going to be really leaning into your carves.

      Purely on specs and how you describe your riding I would say 154W. But from your experience with the 158W and the width factor, there is certainly some argument to going 158W, too. I think if you end up in 11 boots, then I would still go 154W. But if you end up in 12s, then the 158W is probably the better option.

      Hope this helps