Hello and welcome to my 
Jones Mountain Twin Review.
In this review I will take a look at the Mountain Twin as an all mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Mountain Twin a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other all mountain snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Jones Mountain Twin 2019
Price: $499 (USD recommended retail)
Style: All-Mountain
Flex Rating: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Flex Feel: Medium (6/10)
Rating Score: 89.0/100
Compared to other Men’s All Mountain Boards
Out of the 35 men’s all mountain snowboards that I rated:
- The average score was 80.4/100
- The highest score was 92.7/100
- The lowest score was 64.0/100
- The average price was $481 (USD)
- The Mountain Twin ranked 3rd out of 35
Overview of the Mountain Twin’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Mountain Twin’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | All Mountain |
Price: | $499 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Medium-Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Setback 20mm |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | Normal |
Sizing
Length (cm) | 151 | 154 | 157 | 160 | 162 |
Waist Width (mm) | 248 | 250 | 253 | 256 | 256 |
Rec Rider Weight (lb) | 110-160 | 120-170 | 130-180 | 150-200 | 160-210 |
Rec Rider Weight (kg) | 49-73 | 54-77 | 59-82 | 67-91 | 73-95 |
Length (cm) | 155W | 158W | 161W | 164W | 167W |
Waist Width (mm) | 258 | 258 | 260 | 262 | 268 |
Rec Rider Weight (lb) | 130-180 | 140-190 | 150-200 | 170-220+ | 170-220+ |
Rec Rider Weight (kg) | 59-82 | 64-86 | 67-91 | 77-100+ | 77-100+ |
Who is the Mountain Twin Most Suited To?
Anyone who wants just one snowboard but they want to be able to do a bit of everything on it and ride it anywhere on the mountain. This is the definition of an all mountain snowboard and the Mountain Twin does this better than any other board that I’ve ridden.
So if you want to ride powder, hard pack, soft pack, open bowls, narrow chutes and if you want to ride at speed, carve, jump, jib, ride switch and even ride in the pipe – then the Mountain has you covered.
It’s not going to be the boss at all of those things – as one board can’t be the boss at everything. But it will be above average at most things and that’s something that few boards can achieve. So if you only want to have one board but you’re the kind of rider that wants to do everything and go everywhere, then this is going to be the best at that, in my opinion.
Not the ideal beginner board – but great for anyone intermediate and above.
The Mountain Twin in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Mountain Twin is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Jones Mountain Twin 2019, 157cm (253 mm waist width)
Date: Sunday April 15th, 2018
Conditions: There was a little bit of fresh snow in the morning but just a few centimeters. There was still some left over fresh snow from the previous couple of days but not as much there as there was the day before.
Quite cold in the morning, especially for April, but warmed up in the afternoon as the sun came out.
Visibility was variable in the morning for the first couple of laps but cleared out pretty quickly with the sun coming out late morning.
There were a couple of harder spots but mostly pretty soft/medium all round.
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 600mm (23.6“)
Stance Setback: 20mm
Width at Inserts: 265mm front binding, 266mm back binding – quite wide at the inserts compared to the waist
The Mountain Twin is rated as 7/10 in terms of flex but to me it felt more like it was a 6/10 for flex. All brands have a different way of rating this but to me it was a 6/10 or maybe pushing 6.5/10.
Powder
The Mountain Twin points and shoots like a boss over powder. It floats really well and I felt really confident just going for it over slush and powder. No fear of sinking the nose at all – which made the Mountain Twin super fun in the conditions I had.
It has a 20mm setback stance, just a little bit more nose than tail and has rocker in the profile toward the tip and tail – all of which helps with that powder float.
Carving and Turning
You can hold a really good carve on the Mountain Twin. And it’s got good edge hold too – on the hard spots that I encountered, it felt really stable with good edge grip with little fear of washing out.
Was also pretty fast edge-to-edge and going through narrow chutes and through trees it felt responsive.
Easy to skid a turn on, when you need to. Not easy like a beginner board but certainly easy for a mid-flexing board.
Speed
The Mountain Twin and it glided well on flats and uphills, no problem.
Also it felt stable at speed, which is really where the speed rating is most important. It’s very stable feeling overall and with minimal chatter.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Uneven Terrain
Like everything with this board, it was pretty good over the bumpy stuff. It was really consistent over all types of terrain.
Jumps
This board is fun for jumps. It feels stable on landings and has decent pop for ollying over rollers and popping off lips.
The board has camber between the feet which extends out beyond the inserts – then it has rocker at the tip and tail. That camber underfoot really helps with the pop and for stability on landings.
I wouldn’t say it’s the most snappy/poppy board that I’ve ridden, but it’s definitely got some pop there, and it’s easily accessible pop – i.e. you don’t have to put too much into it to get the pop out.
Switch
The Mountain Twin is a directional twin shape – with a slightly longer nose than tail – and the stance is set back 20cm along the effective edge.
In spite of this, it still felt relatively easy to ride switch and was easy to transition in and out of switch. It doesn’t feel like a true twin with a centered stance – but you can definitely ride it backwards comfortably.
Jibbing/Buttering
It’s not a jibbing master by any means – but you can take it through the occasional lap through the park and hit some jibs with it. It won’t perform like a board made for jibbing but you can do it if that’s something you like to do from time to time.
It doesn’t butter super-easy but you can butter with it for sure.
Pipe
I didn’t take it into a pipe but it’s got enough stiffness and good enough edge hold to be really decent in the pipe – and the shape, whilst not perfect for the pipe, is definitely doable for the pipe too.
Changes from 2018 Model
The 2019 Model is essentially the same board as the 2018 model as far as I can tell, apart from the new graphic. There is one new size for the 2019 model – the 167W.
Changes from 2017 Model
The core of the 2018 model has been changed and this is supposed to increase torsional response between the feet. It also uses a new ECO-Plastic topsheet in place of the film topsheets they used for the 2017 model.
The 2017 model saw a new core introduced – which was designed to add more pop. That same core was kept for the 2018 model but with a bit of tweak for the torsional flex (as mentioned above).
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Powder | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Carving/Turning | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Speed | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Uneven Terrain | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Switch | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jumps | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.0/100 |
This board can do everything! It’s billed to do so and it lives up to that billing.
Great float in powder, good stability at speed, carved well, held an edge well, was good over bumps, was easy to ride switch (despite the 20mm setback) and was nice and maneuverable.
Was good down narrow chutes, through trees, in wide open terrain it was fun to let it carve. It was nice over jumps both for the approach, good pop and stable on landings. Was pretty good with jibs and spins too. There was nothing this board couldn’t do. Had heaps of fun on this board.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you’re interested in the Mountain Twin, check out the links below for more info, current prices and options for where to buy.
If you want to check out other men’s all-mountain snowboard options or see how the Mountain Twin compared to other all-mountain decks, check out the link below.
Nate
A very helpful review!
I’m in the market for a Mtn Twin but am struggling to choose between the 160 and 162. I am just over 6foot , 85kg (without snow gear / boots).
I mainly ride groomers – definitely no park / pipe etc – I’m too old for all that!
I’d appreciate any thoughts you have.
Simon
Hi Simon
I think either one would be suitable. If you were going to be doing a lot of backcountry riding/riding in a lot of deep powder, then I’d say definitely the 162.
Since you mostly ride groomers it’s a bit of a toss up between the 2.
The 162 will give you a little bit more in terms of speed and stability at speed and better float in powder.
The 160 will be slightly easier to turn and maneuver and just all round be a little bit more easy going.
These differences will be fairly subtle because there isn’t a huge difference in the lengths – but they will be noticeable.
I have similar specs to you (6″0 and 82kg) and personally I preferred the 157 – but that for me was perfect because I liked taking it into the park and generally doing some freestyle type stuff on the groomers to. For you I would say that the 157 is too short because you don’t want to ride the park at all so you’ll want the benefits of the longer size.
It’s just a weight up between the 160 and the 162. If you lie to ride fast and think you’ll be seeing a reasonable amount of powder then go 162. If you prefer your ride a bit more easy going and don’t foresee too many powder days, then go 160.
Hope this helps.
That’s great! Thanks Nate – I really appreciate you taking the time.
Simon
Nate,
Sorry – another question has just occurred to me!
Would a 160cm ultra mountain twin give a bit of extra stability at high speed but still give me the better manoeuvrability of the shorter board length?
Simon
Hi Simon
I haven’t ridden the Ultra Mountain Twin but in theory and from what I’ve heard you do get a touch more stability at speed, more spring out of turns and a bit quicker from edge to edge. So I’d say most likely you would be getting that extra stability but without sacrificing on the maneuverability.
Like I say, I haven’t ridden the Ultra version so I don’t know by how much this would be the case and you’d have to weigh up if it’s worth the jump in price.
Nate – thank you again.!
S
Hey, how big of a difference is this board from its 2016 version? Is it notably better?
Hey Ben
There’s not too much difference between the 2016 and 2017 versions. They’ve made some tweaks but nothing major. If you can get the 2016 version for cheaper I think it’s worth going for. The 2017 might be that slight bit improved but hard to say without riding them one after the other. I don’t think it would be that noticeable the difference. So if you want to save some cash, no reason why you couldn’t get the 2016 model.
Yeah, that’s exactly what I was planning to do. Could you recommend a size? I am 172lb, 5’9, and have a size 11U.S.(yes, big) boot. I also definitely prefer hitting the backcountry and pow. Oh and I’m still but a youngster and will need some growing space.
I more than appreciate the help, thanks!
You’re very welcome. I’d say go with the 158W. It’s one of the wide versions but it’s more of a mid-wide and would be ideal for your boot size.
The length 158 is possible a little longer than I’d normally recommend for you but will give you some room to grow into it and it’s not too far above what I’d recommend. Also having it a bit longer will help when you’re in the pow.
Hi, I am an intermediate rider, 5’6 and about 175-180 lbs when loaded with gear. I mostly ride east coast all mountain and enjoy the trees/powder when we get those days. What size would you recommend I go with in the Mountain Twin, also worth mentioning is I am a size 9 boot…I know, I am good eater;-)
Hi Mario
I think the 157 would be the best size for you. If you were more on the freestyle side of all-mountain riding then the 154 but I’d say you should go with the 157. The width on that will be fine for a size 9 boot too.
Hey Nate!
Another soul looking into picking up a mountain twin. Looking for your opinion! I mainly love to carve & charge on groomers, while searching out fresh when I can. I’ve got a 25.6cm foot in an 8.5 boot. I’ve been looking at the 157 JMT, but I wasn’t sure about the measurements at the inserts being right with my feet, what do you think?
Hi Blake
I’d say it’s bordering on being too wide for your feet – but if we can get a balance between length and width, then if it’s a little bit shorter than your ideal length, then a be a little wide isn’t too big a deal. But I’d really have to know your height/weight to recommend the right length. It might be the case that the 154 is a better choice – but depending on your specs, the 157 could work.
Hi Nate,
what bindings would you suggest for this board, I have Burton Mission 2008 but I don’t know if I can mount them on it. do you know?
Best regards
Hi Marco
If you have the EST version of the Mission 2008 they won’t fit but if you have the non-EST version then they should fit no problem. If you’re not sure what type they are send me a pic of a birds eye view of the bindings and the disc and I can let you know what version you have.
I think the Burton Missions will work well with this board. If the bindings you have are still in good condition and don’t need replacing then they will work fine with the Mountain Twin.
Hi nate, I doubled checked and my mission 2008 bindings are not the EST version, they fit on the mountain twin. Since I am very intrested on freeride and powder I have read that it is possibile to set back bindings, would you be so kind to tell me how? if I attach the right bind as set back (I suppose I must use the last four holes) should I attach the left bind on the last 4 holes as well? Do you have any suggestion on this matter?
Hi Marco
Yes you can set your bindings back – but the Mountain Twin already has a 20mm (3/4″) setback. So if you setup your bindings in the reference stance (the middle holes) on the mountain twin you will already be setback.
If you did want to setback further, then both bindings should move back – unless you wanted to narrow your stance. But to keep the same stance width, then you should move both bindings back the same amount. If you did want to move them back further than the setback that’s built in, you don’t necessarily have to set them back as far as they go either – you could just move them back a little bit.
If you want to learn more about your stance setup check out the article below.
~ Snowboard Stance Setup
What binding would you recommend for this board? I’m looking for abother complete setup and am 99% on this board. I’m a size 10 boot and currently catching my toes/heels that chase significant drag in powder. What setup would you recommend to mitigate this issue? Any and all advice greatly appreciated!
Hi Brian
I’d recommend anything from the list at the following link for bindings for the Mountain Twin:
>>My Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Depending on the size you end up getting, I don’t forsee any problems with heel and toe drag on the mountain twin with size 10s. My assumption is that you are referring to US size 10s.
If you can let me know your height and weight (or the size you were thinking of) I can recommend a size for you and also suggest whether or not the width should be an issue. Also if you can let me know the board you are riding at the moment and/or the width of it that would be good to.
With a size 10 (which is what I have) I wouldn’t go wide. Personally I don’t like the feel of wide boards. My only thought is that your current board is too narrow.
One thing you can definitely do, if you are also getting new boots, is to go for low profile boots. If you haven’t heard of them before, it basically means that the outersole is smaller than it would be on a regular profile boot. Typically speaking Adidas, Burton and Ride produce the lowest profile boots. You can check out my Top 12 Low Profile Boots post at the link below too (warning though that I am yet to update this for the 2016-17 season at time of writing but it’s on my long list of things to do!).
>>Top 12 Low Profile Boots
Hope this helps. Let me know if you want a size recommendation or if you have already decided on a size and I can more accurately predict if you should encounter any toe/heel drag issues. Also if you could let me know your current board that would be great too.
Hi Nate,
thank you for your review, I am in between the slash brainstorm and the mountain twin. I am a intermediate rider, just started going in POW and some easy free styling like buttering, small jumps etc… I want to progress into the park but nothing to crazy.
I am 5’9, 180 lbs, have a size 12 Burton Invader (very comfortable but not sure if they are good for me???) and the 2016 Burton Cartels.
Which board and sizing would you recommend for me?
Thank you
btw I am open for any suggestions on boots bindings and board. Just want to get a good set up for me.
Hi Patrick
The Brainstorm and the Mountain Twin are quite similar rides in terms of performance and feel – not the same but quite similar and both would be suitable for what you are describing. I think to decide between them, the best idea is to decide which one has the size that is best for you.
If you were to go Brainstorm I’d say the 159W is the most suitable size.
If you were to go Mountain Twin I’d say that the 158W would be the most suitable size.
The Mountain Twin 158W has a 258mm waist width and the Brain Storm 159W has a 259mm waist width. The Mountain Twin 158W has a slightly deeper side cut, so the width at the inserts is going to be about the same on both boards. Both boards have the same effective edge (1180mm) so in terms of feel, they probably feel similar in length. Though I’d say that the 158 would be the slightly better length for you overall.
So even with sizing it’s pretty tough to pick between the 2 of them!
Both will be on the narrow side in terms of width for size 12s but you should be fine if you stick to boots with a low profile (Adidas, Burton and Ride are the best brands for low profile boots). I’d say only just the Mountain Twin over the Brainstorm but you really can’t go wrong with either.
In terms of your bindings, the Cartels are a great match for either board and you can definitely stick with those bindings.
In terms of boots – the Invaders are probably a little bit too soft flexing to be ideal. They are a medium-soft and you really would want more of a medium flex.
You can check out the two lists below for some boot options. The 1st list is labelled freestyle but they’re also good for all mountain riding – and good for intermediate riding. The 2nd list I’d almost say are all-mountain-freeride. A bit more advanced and more for hard charging and less so for park riding unless you’re wanting to hit the really big features. So i’d say the boots in the first list are good options for you. Like I say, Burton Ride or Adidas probably your best bet to get low profile boots.
So the Burton AMB or the Adidas ZX500 are probably your best bets and the AMBs would be the safest bet for you if you already know that Burton boots fit well and are comfortable for you. Other Burton options of a similar ilk would be the Burton Imperial and Burton Almighty.
~ My Top 5 Freestyle/All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
~ My Top 5 All-Mountain/Freeride Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
that is very helpful information. I actually was hoping you would recommend the mountain twin… I love the graphics:) I will go ahead and order the 158W and cant’t wait to test it.
I’m still not sure about the boots but that gives me a good starting point. I guess the best would be to actually find a store and try them on. Its just tough as I love in Hong Kong and don’t really have much choice to try snowboard boots.
Thank you very much, I appreciate you taking your time.
Hi Patrick
Glad that I could help!
Yeah, it’s always best to try boots on in person if you can but it’s not always possible. If you are buying online try to find somewhere that has a return policy that allows you to return if the boots don’t fit properly. You can also check out my snowboard boot fit post if you’d like – a lot of it is for trying on in-person but should also help for when you try on the boots if you get them sent, to know if you need to return them or not, and might help with choosing your size before buying.
~ How to size snowboard boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for all of your helpful reviews.
I’m looking for an all-mountain freestyle board to replace my 2011 Ride Machete. I’ve narrowed it down to the Jones Mountain Twin and the Never Summer Proto Type Two.
My only concern with the Jones is it will be to stiff for my liking because the Machete is a litter to stiff for me (6/10). I also have the NS Evo as my park board so I’m looking for something a tad stiffer and more stable I can use everywhere. I like to hit natural features and want something playful for when I’m riding with my wife but stable enough I can charge with my buddies.
Any thoughts between the two or any other recommendations?
Hi Jon
I’d say that the Proto Type Two would be a great option for what you’re describing. I’d say that the Mountain Twin is slightly softer flexing than the Machete but not by much. The Proto Type Two is softer again from the Mountain Twin but still a little stiffer than the evo. I’d say Mountain Twin 6/10, Proto Type Two 5/10 and evo 4/10 in terms of flex.
The Proto Type Two will also give you more stability than the evo and is definitely something that you can play around with but can also charge when you want to – so to me this sounds ideal for what you’re after.
You can also check out my review of the Proto Type Two if you haven’t already. See link below.
~ Never Summer Proto Type Two Review
Thanks for your response. I was leaning more towards the Proto but I found a deal on the Twin so I’m torn. Does the Twin’s slightly stiffer profile make it harder to butter and play around on, or is it still descent for that type of riding?
Hi Jon
I find that the Mountain Twin is pretty easy to play around with. It’s a good all rounder. But not quite as good for that as the Proto is, IMO. I would say that the Mountain Twin is neither on the playful side nor the aggressive side – it’s in the middle.
Gotcha. Have you ridden the Capita Outerspace Living? I’ve read that it’s similar to the Mountain Twin but a little softer and maybe a little more playful. Reviews state it has a ton of pop which I like.
Hi Jon
I haven’t ridden the Outerspace Living, but I think that would definitely be an option for what you’re describing based on the specs and what I’ve read. Capita is one of that brands that I’ve never gone wrong with. All of their boards that I have written I’ve always really enjoyed.
I just read your review on the Capita DOA and now I’m considering that. Do you think that would be a better choice than the Outerspace Living?
I guess my biggest issue is deciding on what type of board profile I want. I currently have a never summer so I know how they ride and that’s why I’m drawn to the Proto. I haven’t ridden a Rocker/camber/rocker profile so that’s what draws me towards Capita and Jones. Do you have a preference between the two camber profiles and do you think the Proto is worth the extra money?
Sorry to keep going back and forth on you. I appreciate all of your insight.
Hi Jon.
The DOA is practically a traditional camber profile, with just a slight bit of rocker and flat areas towards the tip and tail. It’s technically a hybrid camber (rocker/camber/rocker) but it’s pretty close to being full camber. The DOA is a more aggressive ride than the Outerspace Living which would be a more playful ride in comparison.
I don’t have a personal preference between the two profiles. They both have a different kind of feeling but I like both. Also depending on the amount of camber and the amount of rocker gives a different feel – so one hybrid camber profile can have a different feel to a board with a different ratio-ed hybrid camber profile, if that makes sense.
If you’re budget is low, then something like the Outerspace Living is great value for money. You would get something extra for the Proto Type Two, IMO but you are paying a good bit more for it.
If you feel like you would like something that is more aggressive with more camber, like the DOA, then that is amazing value for money in my opinion.
Hope this gives you more to go on.
Nice review. What binding do you think pairs well with this board? Specifically for quick turn initiation through trees and good stability in backbowls and fast groomers? I hit small jumps now and then, but no park stuff. From your pick a binding section, it sounds like I want either an all-mtn binding on the stiff side, or free ride on the softer side (maybe 7 or 8 stiffness). I’ve been considering Flux XF, Rome Targa, and Union T-Rice. I don’t think you’ve reviewed those last 2, any thoughts? The ride el-hefe looks good too, and although they are kind of pricey, I would consider them if you thought they were a really good match for my riding style description.
Thanks,
Ryan
Hi Ryan
I’ve actually now created an “All-Mountain-Freeride” bindings post. This is a top 5 of those bindings that are medium-stiff in flex, which sounds like what you are after. Check out the link below for that list.
~ My Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Snowboards
You’ll see that the T-Rices are in that list.
In general I think this board is versatile enough that it would go well with any Medium or Medium-Stiff bindings. I think for what you’re describing, the El Hefe would work or anything in that link above.
Thanks for the reply. That’s a good list and the type of binding I was referring to. Since you rate the TRice highly, sounds like those are a good fit. I read some of your other comments where you thought something like the Burton Cartel is a better overall fit for this board. Do you think the TRice will give me significantly better edge turning and more stability in backbowls/trees/steep groomers vs the Cartel, or is the Cartel good enough in those areas while being a better overall fit for this board?
Hi Ryan
I think the Cartel is a good fit for this board, but the T Rice would also work well. The Cartel is a good flex match. The T Rice is a little stiffer than the Cartel and it will provide a little bit more response than the Cartels would – but they’re still butterable.
I think they would make the turning from edge to edge a little quicker than the Cartels – but with that extra stiffness there’s also less forgiveness, so you’d want to be an advanced to expert rider. For an intermediate rider the Cartels would work better. But it sounds like you are on the more advanced end so I think the T Rice would be a good pick for you.
I decided to go with the Outerspace Living. One last question and I’ll stop bugging you. I’m trying to decide between the Union Forces or Contact Pros to go with this. Which do you suggest unless you have a better option in mind?
Hi Jon
It’s a tough call between them. I’d say that the Force’s have a bit more response – a bit quicker from edge to edge and have a medium flex bordering on medium stiff. The Contact Pros will have better board feel and be better for buttering. They have a medium-soft flex. The Outerspace Living has a medium flex.
I’d personally go with the Contact Pros but it really depends on what you value more – that board feel or response.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate. I appreciate all of your help.
Hey Nate,
Great review, new to actual snowboard set up and bought the Jones Mountain Twin after demo’ing it for severa says with some Union Force Bindings. Excuse my ignorance, how do I know which side of the board is the nose and which is the tail since there is a setback built into the board. (I’m a regular stance)
Hi Sean
That’s a fair question – and you want to get it right, particularly when there’s a setback on the board.
I actually wrote a post about this which you can check out at the link below.
~ How to Tell Nose From Tail On a Snowboard
Hope this will answer your question
Hey Nate,
Buying my first board and I am strongly considering the jones mountain twin. I live in the northeast to give you a reference on snow conditions and will rarely go off groomers. I have read your posts about beginner boards, and even though this is a much stiffer board and sintered base it is a camrock profile… I am 6’1″ 210lb with a 10.5 boot. Would I be ok buying a size smaller based on weight recommendations? That way it will have more flex and i wont have to worry about buying a new board anytime soon? I am willing to sacrifice quickness of learning for a board I can still learn on but also have for years to come.
thanks! Mark
Hi Mark
Although the Mountain Twin isn’t ideal for beginners it’s also not a bad first board. You could definitely get boards much more difficult to learn on.
And also, like you say, if you’re over the weight recommendations it will feel softer than it’s stated flex. It would be a steeper, possibly slower learning curve than some other boards that are ideal to learn on but it sounds like you’re willing to sacrifice that.
I think the best size for you as a beginner on this board would be the 160. This will also be a size that you can stick with for a good while. The other option would be the 161W (which isn’t actually too much wider than the 160 regular width – though I still think the width on the 160 would be better).
Hi Nate, Awesome review
Im an mid level intermediate rider 5ft 11 inches tall and 76 kg. I really like the jones mountain twin. Boots are a US 10.
Two things mate, first, what would be a good size for me? I was thinking 157. I ride mainly on groomers trying to improve my carving but after a while i want to try a bit of everything esp pow and some buttering. Bit too old for the park now!
Second. Is this board only for advanced riders? Or can an intermediate progress on it? Iv only ever been on rentals and this will be my first board. I can link turns easily on most slopes but am only just learning to carve properly using the sidecut instead of skid turning. Would this be a good board to progress on? My second choice is the yes typo.
Id appreaciate your views mate.
Thanks
Hi Ishan
I think this board would be the perfect next step for you. Definitely not advanced only. This is a great board to progress through that intermediate level up into advanced level.
YES Typo would do a similar job but the Mountain Twin will do a better job in powder.
In terms of sizing, I’d say that the 157 would be the best size for you based on height/weight, ability and your style. It’s also a great width for your boot size.
Thanks Nate. Much appreciated. Now i just need to find a good deal on a mountain twin!!!!!
You’re very welcome Ishan – hope you find a good deal!
Hi.
Think ur content is great and really informative. Have utilised it many times.
Desperately need some advise.
I’m in need of a new board, my 2011 lib tech trs is broken. Been looking at 3 boards mainly and can’t decide and hoped u might be able to advise. I’m 6ft, about 80kg, and had been riding a 157. I’m now thinking more 159 or 160 in either jones mountain twin, ultra mountain twin or explorer. I ride resort most of the time but will occassionally ride park (not good tho). I take on powder when poss and occassionally ride switch. Like to jump a bit but mostly just cruising about. I’d say I was intermediate to advanced but now I’m older (43) I’m not so interested in bombing around and really pushing it, more into just riding around messing about, hitting wee natural jumps, buttering etc but when pow is around I will go for it. My first choice of board is either the ultra mountain or explorer. The ultra tho I’m concerned it’s too aggressive and stiff more my more mellow riding style but would be good for when I want to ride harder, and the explorer I’m concerned won’t ride switch too good or won’t be quite as aggressive when I want to hit the steep pow. Any advise is welcome. Thanks.
Stu.
Hi Stuart
I actually think that the Mountain Twin (non-ultra) might be your better bet. Just that it’s a bit more playful in general than the Ultra and it’s going to perform a little better riding switch – the Explorer has a camber profile that’s a bit setback and won’t feel as natural riding switch – you can definitely do it but I think the Mountain Twin would be better.
I think all round the Mountain Twin would be the best balance for you. I think the Ultra might be a bit too aggressive for what you’re describing, particularly if you were to size up to the 160cm. I think if you were to go to 160cm, then the Mountain Twin will work best – and you’ll get the same performance in the powder. You’ll definitely notice a step in powder performance on the Mountain Twin compared to the TRS – even if you didn’t size up, the Mountain Twin is more suited for powder than the TRS.
So, in short, I think the Mountain Twin will be a more easy going ride for when you’re on the groomers – but it will handle the powder as well as the Ultra and the Explorer and will be the best of the 3 in park, IMO, for when you do go in there – though it won’t be as good as the TRS 157cm in the park – so there will be a trade off there – but you’ll definitely get an increase in powder and speed performance with the Mountain Twin compared to the TRS.
One more thing – can let me know your boot size? – just to make sure that the 158W isn’t the better size for you.
Hope this helps
Hi.
Thanks so much for taking time to reply and help me out.
My boot size is uk 10.
I had considered the 158w as when I do the foot placement thing u suggest on my old board my toes and heel overhangs about 1cm on my trs. (I think its waist width is 253mm). When my boots are on board there is a bit of overhang and sometimes get a bit of toe and heel drag.
So u suggest the mountain twin. It has the same flex rating as the ultra though so would it not be just as stiff, and the explorer is that bit softer and so imagine more forgiving and playful. The explorer also won a good wood award this yr unlike either of the mountain twins so that too makes me lean towards it (but then it’s only one review). Would the mountain twin be OK for buttering as I’m hoping to improve that side of things. I also have looked at slash brainstorm but unfortunately can’t find it in stock anywhere here in UK. If there were any other boards u thought might fit what I’m after as I said before very open to suggestions. Thanks once again.
Hi Stuart
I know the Mountain Twin has a flex rating of a 7/10 but to me that would be overstating it. It’s more of a medium flex. I would say 6/10. I’d say Explorer 5/10, Mountain Twin 6/10 and Ultra Mountain Twin 7/10 – IMO.
For UK 10s I would suggest the 158W if you were to go with the Mountain Twin. It’s only actually slightly wider than the 160 regular – but it would be a safer bet width-wise. Also, I think it would be easier to butter with in the slightly shorter size. In terms of buttering, it’s reasonably easy to butter. Obviously there are some boards out there that are more made for that and would be easier – but as far as a do-it-all board goes, the Mountain Twin is pretty easy.
That’s all of course not to say that the explorer would be a bad choice – it is a good board. I just think on balance, for you, I’d go Mountain Twin. One other thing, is that the Explorer is a little quicker edge-to-edge than the Mountain Twin – if that’s a thing.
Yeah Brainstorm was very popular everywhere this year so it’s sold out pretty much everywhere I know.
If you want to check out some other options and haven’t already, check out the link below.
~ My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hi.
Thanks once again for advise. Think I should go with ur recommendation of jones mountain twin, my only prob now is the only 158w I can find is £100 more expensive than 160 so leaning towards it due to costs. Would I notice a big difference in size going from 157 to 160. Obviously it would run faster but spins and buttering would be harder. Would it be noticeably harder. I can find an ultra 158w at a good price but do u feel it wouldn’t really suit what I’m after. Also have found a yes typo at a good price in 158 but its upper weight limit is 80kg. God such tough decisions. Any last advise.
Thanks again. Stu
Hi Stuart
I think you would notice the difference going up to the 160 – and you pretty much hit the key differences – better for speed but so much for spins and buttering – it would also float better in powder. Also I find longer boards harder for riding switch.
I actually think that the YES Typo could be a good option for you based on what you’re describing you want (and I wouldn’t worry about being at the upper limit for the 158 – I generally take those recommendations into account a little bit but they aren’t the be all and end all – for example, I would go for the 158 in the Typo and I’m roughly 82-84kg and 6″0), It’s a pretty easy going board and good for riding switch, butters etc but would give you a little bit more in terms of speed and powder over the TRS. Not as much as the Mountain Twin but it’s more on the softer flexing, more easy going side than the Mountain Twin. It’s what I’d say is an all-mountain board that has freestyle tendencies – without actually being an all-mountain-freestyle board (like the TRS) – if that makes sense.
So it would fall, in terms of style and feel, somewhere in between the TRS and the Mountain Twin.
The 158 Typo has a 253mm waist. That’s going to be cutting it tight for being too narrow – especially if you say that you’re getting some drag on your TRS. The other option would be the 159W if that was available.
That’s not to say that the 160 Mountain Twin is too long. But it’s just that it will perform better as some aspects and not as well at others than if you went 158W.
Hope this gives you something more to go off
Hi sorry found yes typo 159w at really good price (£150 cheaper than mountain twin 158w) just concerned it’s too wide 261mm at waist as compared to 256 for 160 mountain twin or 258 for 158w mountain twin. I’m sure I’m over thinking all this. Thanks. Stu
Hey Stu
It’s a good idea to get your gear right for you so I wouldn’t say you’re over thinking it. But in saying that, I don’t think that the Typo 159W will be too wide for you at the 261mm waist width. I think that width would suit you fine.
God I think I’m turning into a pain in the neck. I was checking my trs today with my cartel medium bindings and salomon dialogue boots (they r actually UK 9). There was a 3.5 cms overhang on to and heel. I had read that those boots have one of the largest footprints. So I think in the end a wide board is necessary, so am prob going with 159w typo. Does that sound sensible to u. Thanks once again for taking time to help. I really appreciate it. And ur site too has soo much useful info. Have recommended it to.numerous pals. Stu
Hi Stu
Sorry I missed this comment before. As per my last comment, I think the 159W Typo would be a great choice for you.
Thanks for the recommendations. Appreciate it!
Hi.
Right this is the last set of questions I promise.
Managed to find a real good price on jones mountain twin 157. Have been measuring my foot and used your guide and feel that at a UK size 9 I should be OK with a regular width board. My trs has about a 2cms over hang and according to ur info that should be OK. Your info says that 253 waist is the upper limit for size 9 shoe (u.s. 9.5) so I’m thinking I should be OK. The last question is a 157 board shouldn’t be too small for me. As I’ve said my trs is the same its just I’m a bit heavier than I was when I got it. How would flex be on this length board. Prob more flexible and so more buttery and playful. Thanks again for taking the time to help a neurotic purchaser. Stu
Hi Stuart
I completely understand the need to get the right gear.
Typically speaking I would say that the UK9.0 would be fine on a 253mm waisted board. But in your case I was concerned that you were getting drag on your TRS. Are you sure it’s UK9.0 – earlier you said UK10.0 – just want to make sure.
Anyway, if you are confident that the width will be fine on the 157, then that will be fine. And yeah, you’re on the money in terms of flex there. You would be on the upper end of the weight recommendations which will make the board flex more than if you were on the lower end or if you went for a longer board. So the flex will probably feel slightly softer – and that will make it more buttery and playful like you say.
Hi,
I am a uk 9 (foot measures 28cms). Think my prob is the dialogue boots have a huge footprint so make the overhang bigger than on reg size 9 boots.
I have eventually found a 158w mountain twin at a reasonable price so am stuck between that and typo 159w. The Jones will be stiffer and so more responsive but prob not as forgiving at lower speeds and not as easy buttering. I’m also slightly concerned I’m right at the top and maybe over the suggested weight limit. The typo I’m concerned it might be too wide (261 waist) and that it might be too soft. That’s great for buttering and messing around at low speed but not so good if I’m wanting to ride more aggressively. My instinct is to go with the Jones, would u agree. All the research I’ve been doing lately though suggests I should be buying a 160 board but I’m not sure I want one that big especially for spins etc. God with all ur advise I should be paying u. Haha. Thanks.
Stuart
Hi Stuart
Yeah – the Dialogues are known for their big footprint unfortunately.
My instinct is saying Mountain Twin too and my instinct is also saying 158W rather than 160. I think that it will give you the best balance of what you’re looking for. 160 would definitely not be a bad choice and would likely be the better size if you didn’t want to spin and butter but I think overall the Mountain Twin at 158W would be the best balance I think.
Hi.
Great, thanks for all the advise and will let u know how I get on with the board. I really appreciate u taking the time to help. Thanks.
Stuart.
Hi Stuart
You’re very welcome. Look forward to hearing how you get on.
Hey Nate!
I’m 6’4 and carry around 194 lbs.
I wear US 10s meaning i’m borderline between the wider boards and the standard ones according to Jones sizing guide.
I own the k2 maysis boots and are really struggling to chose between the ultra mnt twin 161w and the 160/162(depending on more pow vs more park).
What’s your take?
Thanks a lot!
F
Hi Francesco
Don’t go wide. I have US 10s and you definitely don’t need to go wide. I’ve never had any trouble with anything over 249mm waist – but I find when the waist starts getting out to that 260mm mark that the board really starts to feel heavy and slow from edge-to-edge.
So I’d say definitely 160 or 162 and, like you say, the difference is going to be whether you want something a little more freestyle oriented or more freeride oriented. Typically speaking (and the differences will be subtle) the shorter length will be easier for spins, a little bit more maneuverable, and easier for riding switch and the longer length will have better float in powder and be more stable at speed – but these differences will of course be reasonably subtle.
But yeah with a 256mm waist width, they are going to be a good width and the 260mm waist width on the 161W is going to be too wide for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Nate that was more than helpful, it actually got me all the way to the shop ready to get the 162!
But I then realized that I had mistaken UK 10 with US 10, and that my K2 Maysis are actually US 11… I know..:)
Do you think this tips the balance towards the 161W?
Thanks so much!!
Puravida,
F
Ah, in that case you are on that borderline point.
I think you would still squeeze onto the regular widths in this case – but you would be cutting it tighter – and the 260mm waist on the 161W would certainly be suitable and probably the safer bet. I still wouldn’t say completely no to the 160 or 162 but the 161W will be playing it safer – and it will mean you wouldn’t have to choose between the 160 and 162 anymore :-).
Also if you were leaning towards the 162, then the 161W will have a similar surface area to that because of the increase in width – so, on balance, I think the 161W is the better choice now.
It’s all done and tested man you are a legend thanks!
Just to give back a little i’ll tell you that I took the board out for a ride and it truly is hard to believe.
I was used to more ‘dedicated’ boards and I felt disoriented at first, this board does not suggest any specific use for itself.
But it didn’t took me long to understand that this was because I had nothing less than pure freedom strapped to my feet.
I do still have a wish for next here:
Jeremy, how about just a slightly more extended camber?
But this is because I love speed, It would draw back the board’s user-friendliness a little, so yea, that’s me being selfish:)
Puravida!
Hey Francesco
Thanks for letting me know your experience. You’re not the first to ask for more camber – but yeah then it would change the character of it for sure.
Hi Nate,
Reading ur advise to Francesco above has now got me worried I’ve bought a wide board when not necessary. It’s too late now I guess. As I said before my dialogues have a huge footprint and on my trs with its 253 waist I did have more over hang than u recommend in ur buying advise, so felet on order to have optimum foot positioning the wide was best. I guess we will just have to wait and see. Would the 5mm waist increase and subsequent overall increase in width make a significant difference.
Stu
Ps sure u thought that was the end of hearing from me. Haha.
Hi Stuart
It will make a difference but not make or break. And the 158W has a 258mm waist – so it’s more of a mid-wide than a wide. The 161W has a 260mm waist.
I ride size 10s and one of my current boards has a 258mm waist – and it’s fine. But I do find if I go any wider than that, that I start to really feel it. There just seems to be a point just beyond that that starts to feel sluggish.
In your case I was concerned about the large footprint and the 158W is really a compromise between being too narrow and being too wide. I think you’ll be fine on that width. You might have been fine on the 253mm too – but it would have been cutting it fine and I was concerned with the issues that you had on your TRS.
Hi.
I tend to agree with u. I don’t think it’s gonna be that much wider that it will make a significant difference plus as u said to Francesco the added overall width will help with float in pow especially with me only going for a 158. I’m sure I’m over thinking all this, I mean I’m not expert rider anyway, I simply want to cruise about the hill having fun. Cheers once again. Stu
Hi.
Well board has arrived and looking great. Glad I went for the 158w I think as my toes and heels just and no more go over edge so I think it’s a good fit size wise. I does look a bit fatter than my trs but that’s to be expected. My question is the board has a 60cms reference stance with a 2cms set back. If I was wanting to center the stance I had read it was a good idea to leave the rear binding where it is and just move the front one forward. My prob is if I do that it will make my stance width huge. Can I just center it with say a 60cm stance width. Will that affect how the board rides seeing as it is a directional twin. Thanks again. Stu.
Hey Stuart
Awesome that your new board has arrived! Love that feeling! And sounds like a great fit width-wise.
I haven’t ridden the Mountain Twin centered but from what I hear it is one of those boards that you can ride centered without noticing anything unwanted. But I can see where you’re coming from that you don’t want to go to a 62cm stance width.
I am the same height as you at 6’0″ and I really prefer a 58cm stance width usually – though it does depend on the board I am riding – sometimes it’s more suitable to go wider or narrower than that. But I’ve never gone as wide as 62cm. But that’s not to say that you can’t do it or that it wouldn’t feel comfortable – but I can definitely see your reservations there.
The other thing that confuses me about the advice that you’ve read about moving your front foot forward is that the specs sheet I have in front of me (from Jones) says reference stance for the 158W is 60cm and centered reference stance is 58cm. That suggests to me that you would actually move the back foot towards the center, right?
In its 60cm setback stance you would have 48cm between the tail of the board and the center of the back binding and 50cm between the nose of the board and the center of the front binding. By moving the front binding forward 2cm you would then have 48cm at each end and 62cm between the bindings. If you move the back binding one spot towards the center that should give you 50cm between the center of the back binding to the tail and 50cm between the front binding and the nose of the board with a 58cm stance.
I think that the stance width that you are more comfortable with would be the best option when centering on this board. But either way – to make a long story short! – I think you should experiment. Try it out both ways and see which you feel most comfortable with – that will be the surest way to know.
Let me know how you get on
Hi Nate,
So I was in between the 154 and 157cm mountain twin. I’m 5’8″ and 140 lbs. I wear 10.5 Burton ambush boots but I heard they do a pretty good job sizing down the outside of the boot. I don’t really have a preference in riding style, more of just a little bit of everything on the mountain but not tons in the park though I do like hitting kickers. Could you give me a recommendation of what would best suit me?
thanks!
Hi Edgar
Thanks for your message. Based on your height/weight, the weight recommendations from Jones and do everything style, I think the 154cm would be the best size for you. And I think the waist width of 250mm on that size will be good for your boot size too since you have reduced outersole tech (Burton are good for that).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks, that was actually super helpful. Unfortunately I can only find the board in a 157 now. Do you think I would be oversizing it if I decided to buy it in a 157? I’m bummed I can’t find it smaller but I don’t know if it would be that big of a difference going up in size. Thanks!
Hi Edgar
Unfortunately I do think the 154cm would be a much better fit for you. I just think you would enjoy that length more than the 157cm.
3cms doesn’t sound like much but can make a noticeable difference. You do get some advantages for going longer (better float in powder, more stability at speed) but I think the disadvantages (slower edge-to-edge, feeling stiffer than the flex rating, less nimble, harder for spins, more catchy) in your case would outweigh that.
I don’t think you’d hate the 157cm but I think that you would like the 154cm a good bit more.
Hi sir thanks for all the great info. I recently purchased the mountain twin 158 wide. I am torn in if bought the right size. I am 5’10, 180 lbs, and have a 10.5 size addidas adv boot. Is this a good size for me or would the 157 be better? I can easily return if neeed.
Hi Nick
I think the 158W (258mm waist) is a good size for you. Since you have Adidas boots (and especially if they’re 2017 Adidas boots – great reduced footprint) then I think you could get on the 157cm (253mm) no problem. But the 258mm isn’t too wide for you. If you want to really optimize that leverage on the edges for edge-to-edge speed, then the 157cm will be better for that. The 157 will feel more nimble because it’s narrower and slightly shorter.
But the 158W will have the advantage of being more stable at speed and with more stability on landings and will have slightly better float in powder due to more surface area.
I think both sizes would be suitable so your decision will have to weigh up which of those things are more important to you.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much! Another thing I forgot to mention is my new union Danny kass bindings cover the entire width of the 158w so if I went to a 157 they would definitely over lap. Would this be an issue? I’ve never had bindings that are this big
You’re welcome Nick.
Hmmm in that case then I would lean more towards the 158W. Preferably you don’t want any binding overhang. Boot overhang is fine as long as it’s not excessive (and actually a good thing – if your boots weren’t overhanging at all your feet would be too far inside the edges of the snowboard and you’d have lost leverage) but binding overhang is preferable to avoid. A tiny bit would be ok – and you definitely do want your bindings to be as close to the edge as possible without going over – that will help to maximize your leverage too.
Have you contracted the toe ramp to it’s shortest position? If so, then it might pay to stick with the 158W. If it can go in a bit still then you might get them on the 157 without overhang.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great review and interesting reading the comments above. I am looking at getting the mountain twin and have recently bought Burton Cartel bindings and Burton AMB boots. (Hoping these will be good reading your reviews)
I wanted a new all mountain board as we tend to do it all. We like playing on the runs jumping off of kickers and love the pow, I have a little go in the parks but mainly pow and groomed runs mucking about as we go.
My last board was a Ride mountain 159 wide, I am 6ft 2, 190 pounds and boot size us13.
I was going to get the 161w as needed the extra width for the boots, but measuring it against the Ride it measures 2.5cm longer (assume the ride had more lift at the nose and tail? ) As I like playing around I am thinking should I maybe go for the 158w instead?
I am used to my old 159 board and thinking if the 161 will be noticeably longer or should it be ok? Sorry for so many questions but want to get it right before I take to the slopes
So do you think I should go for 158w or stick with the 161w and would I notice the extra legnth?
Cheers pal
Tim
Hi Tim
Thanks for your message.
I think the 161W would be the best size for you. You will notice that length when compared to the Mountain Twin 158W but I don’t think you’ll notice it compared to the 159 Ride Mountain. The main reason for this is that the Ride Mountain was a seriously wide board. I’m not actually that familiar with it but doing some quick research it looks like the 159 Ride Mountain has a 273mm waist width. The fact that the 161W is going to be considerably narrower at 260mm waist width, will make it feel considerably more nimble.
Also it looks like the Ride Mountain was more of a freeride board as opposed to an all-mountain board – so the Mountain Twin will feel more playful generally speaking. This is based on the limited info I could find on the Ride Mountain. Assuming it is more of a freeride board that would also explain why it might have more nose lift – perhaps not more tail lift but the nose may certainly have been lifted more if it’s a freeride board.
So I don’t think it will feel noticeably longer – just because that narrowness will negate that. The only thing might be with spins – but again, I suspect that the Mountain Twin is generally speaking easier to spin than the Ride Mountain.
The only thing that concerns me is if the 161W isn’t wide enough. Because you have Burton boots (which have good outersole reduction), you can certainly get away with going narrower. Burton size 13s are probably like some boots are as a size 12. Even so 260mm would be the narrowest I would go for in terms of width. I think you’ll get away with it – but it’s cutting it fine, no guarantees. It sounds like you have access to the board in a local shop? (based on how you mentioned you measured it against the Ride Mountain) – if so then checking the width in person might help to determine if it’s going to be wide enough. You can check out the post below to get an idea on checking the width.
>>Snowboard Width Sizing
But I definitely concur with the board choice – it’s a great board for do-it-all, which it sounds like you do – consistent across conditions and across styles.
Hope this helps
Note: This is all based on what I found about the Ride Mountain having a 273mm waist width. If you want to measure this yourself to be sure you should measure at the narrowest point of the board and measure on the base of the board, as opposed to the top sheet (where the width is narrower – waist widths are measured on the underside).
Hi Nate
Thanks very much for your comments, very useful, I have the 161w and all set up so think I will get away with it.
Appreciate the feedback and quick response
Very kind of you
Best wishes
Tim
You’re very welcome Tim.
Hope your new board goes well – would be great to hear how it goes once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hey nate. Alittle above the beginner side and was looking at the twin mountain. I want a board that I can have for the next 5-6 years. Live on the east coast so mostly resort riding except once a year. Have a pair of 10.5us thirty two lashed and burton mission bindings. I’m 5’11 and around and bounce up and down between 205 to 215. It’s a toss up between the 160 and the 162. What would be your recommendation.
Thanks Nik
Hi Nik
I think that the 160 would be the best size for you. I think it is the best balance for your height/weight and ability level and for where you ride most of the time. The width on that board should be just right for your boots too.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
great website and it’s incredible how you keep up with people’s questions here! The comment sections have already helped me a lot so far but still I’d love to ask one question for my personal setup.
I’m 184cm/6ft but only 72kg/160lbs (without gear). I’m an all mountain playful type of rider, I love those powder runs in between groomers and through the trees, little kickers, going switch on piste or practicing some carving one day and some buttering the next. Not a lot of either park or back country, but you never know.
It seems like the Mountain Twin could be the right board for me and I could get a nice deal on a 155 wide from 2016. I thought it might match my weight and overall preferences, but would you rather recommend the 158 wide? (I rode a Yes Basic 159 wide last season and it felt a bit too long/heavy – but then again I’m a skateboarder so snowboards always tend to feel bulky to me.)
Now, I guess the critical part for both the 155w and the 158w would be boot size – I’m wearing 2016 Nitro Anthem boots in US12.5/MP30.5 and both boards seem to be just 25.8cm wide at the waist so I don’t expect them to differ much around the inserts? Does the boot size rule them out altogether or do you think I could make it work? My stance is a typical +/-15 and my bindings are Union Contacts.
Hi Felix
I think that the 155W certainly isn’t a bad length for you – and I think you could go for that over the 158W – especially if you found the 159W of the YES Basic too long. But I would be concerned that the width would be too narrow for your boots unfortunately. The fact that you have a +15/-15 stance is in your favor because neither of your bindings are too straight across the board – but I still think you would be pushing it.
Another option – for a similar board and also something that would suit your riding style would be the Never Summer West – there is a 157W which has a 261mm waist. I think something between 262mm and 268mm would be best. But I think that 261mm you should get away with with +15/-15 angles (and also that’s the width on the YES Basic 159W – so if you didn’t have any drag issues on that, that would also be a good indicator).
But of course, you have the deal on the Mountain Twin – you might get away with it but I think you’d be cutting it pretty tight – especially when you’re really up on edge.
Hope this gives you more to go off and helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
thanks for the great reply! I had a look at the Never Summer West – the size looks good but it’s a hybrid rocker and I tried that once on a Nitro Blacklight and didn’t fancy it too much. It may be a whole different feeling on the West but those also seem very expensive, at least in Europe.
But I got my hands on that 2016 Mountain Twin 155w in the meantime – I can still return it so I very carefully mounted my bindings and boots with the shrink wrap still on, just to get a better idea of the toe and heel overhang. It looks like I could get down to around 2.7 cm on both toe and heel side. My bindings have sort of a fat gas pedal and EVA padding, and the shoes are curved around the heel, so maybe I could get away with it..? Or would this prevent anything that remotely resembles a carve?
I made a bit of an effort and uploaded four or five pictures with measurements and angles, if you want to have a quick look and let me know your thoughts, that would be super cool. Here’s the link: View Pics
If there’s any way I can contribute in return, let me know… this site has been really helpful so far!
Hey Felix
Thanks for the images. That makes it really helpful.
There’s certainly more overhang than is ideal – but the bevel on the boots and the gas pedal certainly help.
Something that’s a little bit more advanced than I haven’t included in my width post (because typically people don’t have these measurements – is using this angulation guide:
Angulation Guide
You could also watch this video:
Snowboard Width Video
If you’re someone who really gets up on their edges and gets really low on a carve, then a 70 degree angle would be something you’d probably want to look at. If you were to get your bindings back a bit so that the overhang was more even toe and heel (and I even like to have slightly more heel than toe overhang if I’m cutting it close, because usually you can’t get as low on that heel edge) then you could get that toe side angle closer to 70 degrees. It would take the heel side angle under 60 degrees though, which wouldn’t be ideal.
In your case I don’t think I would want the heel side overhanging more than the toe side – just because the fat gas pedal is helping with that toe side angle and you don’t want that angle to go too far down on the heel. But based on looking at the pictures you could get away with going a little bit further back on the heel edge but only so far so that it would be even 2.7cm each side. You might get away with this width, depending on how low you carve, but it’s your call.
If you are happy with 65 degree angle at tow and 60 degree angle at heel, then I think it will be fine. But if you think you’ll want that extra angle if you think you’ll be really up on those edges, then you might need something a little bit wider.
If I was able to use those pics you put up and put up a post related to it on the site, that would be an awesome contribution. I’d really appreciate that.
Hey Nate,
thanks for the reply! Of course, if you want to use any of the pictures for a post, go ahead – I’ve added some more, see below.
I tried to further tweak and center the stance, so I’m now at around 2.7 cm overhang for both toe and heel. One issue with my measurements from yesterday was that I measured the angle starting from the top corner of the board rather than its actual bottom edge. I didn’t find a better way to do it with that triangle, so today I made paper cut outs with different angles and repeated the whole process. Here’s a second album with pictures: View Pics
So this more centered overhang gives me angles of approximately 64 degrees on toe side and 63 degrees on heel side according to the new measurement (I may shave off some of that outersole profile once the boot is out of warranty).
Good point about having a little more angle on the toe vs the heel side though – I think the same goes for me, I don’t get as low into a carve on the heel. I could probably shift the result to 67° toe / 60° heel or so if I wanted a little more “legroom” for the toes, but I think reaching 70° on either side could mean making too much of a sacrifice on the other. That being said, I’ve just learned carving wider turns a while back and probably won’t go crazy low on those edges any time soon.
=> So for now, I think I’m leaning towards keeping the board. Besides my main issue discussed above, below is my train of thought, I hope that there isn’t too much nonsense in there 🙂 Maybe there are some counter arguments that I didn’t think of.
– Going with the 155w over the 158w could make buttering the board a little easier (something I was a slightly sceptical about given its 7/10 stiffness rating)
– I’m still well within the weight range for the 155w after putting on boots, helmet, backpack etc (around 77kg/170lbs with gear, board is recommend for 59-82kg)
– I don’t know how the length affects carves though (radius? stability? initiation?)
– Stance width (58cm centered / 60cm reference) seems to match with my height (184cm)
– Going for a shorter board (and one that’s somewhat narrow, admittedly) keeps the board’s weight in check (by the way, this one weighs in at around 3240g/7.14lbs)
– Float in powder should still be fine given it’s a mid-wide and has great reviews for pow.
– The fact it’s somewhat narrow for my feet could at least have the advantage of making it feel faster edge-to-edge (but I’m just guessing here).
– I like the graphics and the company seems worth supporting.
– I got it for a good price and it’s already in my hands.
Cheers,
Felix
Hey Felix
Thanks for letting me use those images. Nice work on the new images – good thinking with using the paper cutouts!
I think I’m also leaning towards leaning towards keeping it too.
I think that even up of the bindings and the new measurements look like you should be ok. I also agree that going as far as 70 degrees on the front would sacrifice too much on the back. You could go a little bit more back to heel edge and, like you say get something like 66 to 67 on the toe – but I wouldn’t go anymore than that.
If you’re not someone who’s going to be going crazy on any euro carves anytime soon, then I think those degrees should be fine.
In my opinion:
– The 155W will be easier to butter than the 158W
– You are definitely fine weight-wise on the 155W
– I slightly prefer a longer board for carving but there’s a weigh up for other pros/cons of the sizes
– Stance width should be fine. I’m 183cm and like a 580mm stance but when I ride Jones boards I tend to go with reference stance which is usually 600mm for the sizes I ride and I like that stance on Jones boards
– Yeah the shorter board will be slightly lighter – probably not a huge difference and not something I would base my decision on – but a small plus there
– I think the float in powder will be absolutely fine for your weight – the 158W would have more float, there’s just more surface area there but the 155W will have suitable float
– The narrowness will allow you to get really good leverage on the edges which helps with edge-to-edge speed. Though that leverage ultimately comes from the feet and I don’t know that there would be much advantage for the feet going over the edges than they do going right to the edge. But you will certainly be getting maximum leverage I would say – so you’ll be getting it as fast as it can get to
Hope this helps and let me know what you go with.
Hey Nate,
thanks again for the fast answer, I finally decided to keep the board and unwrapped it today – looks gorgeous! Can’t wait to try it out but I’ll probably have to wait until next season. Maybe I can catch a ride to Austria over Easter or so, but it’s more likely I’ll have to take a look at your “storing the board for the summer” post next…
By the way, given it’s a board from last season, would you recommend having it waxed before I use it or can I still rely on the factory treatment?
Ah, and one thing I forgot to mention, that angles table from the Donek website was pretty helpful for me, so I’d say that’s a good resource! You may be right that it could overcomplicate the matter if you add it to your board width article – but maybe in a “further reading” section or so..?
Do you have an article on board/core construction by the way? I started wondering because this 2016 Mountain Twin has what seems like a semi-transparent top sheet graphic and underneath you can see the laminated wood of the board’s core shine through – but shouldn’t there be layers of fibreglass and stuff in between core and top sheet that would obstruct the view? Here’s a good detail picture: Jones Mountain Twin Pic
Cheers,
Felix
Thanks Felix. Yeah I think I might include that in the “further reading” section of that post. I might even write a new “advanced width sizing” post and refer to it from there.
Check out my post below on whether or not you need to wax a new board. Sometimes yeah, sometimes not necessary.
>>Should I Wax a New Snowboard
I haven’t written an article on core construction yet but it’s something on the list to investigate and write a post on. I imagine that it’s either that the fibreglass between the topsheet and the woodcore is see through or they in some way have a wood grain veneer on the fibreglass. If yo ulook at the flagship the whole top sheet is that wood grain look. I know the Mountain Twin has the Triax Fiberglass over the core but not sure if it’s see through or what the story is there.
Hey Nate…I am an advanced intermediate/expert rider. I do most of my riding in the backcountry riding pow. I am 6′-0″ and 175lbs and I wear a size 11US Northwave Decade SL boot.
I am considering purchasing the 2017 162cm Jones Ultra Mountain Twin and wanted your opinion vs getting a 161W.
Hi Bill
I think either one would work for you. I’m not that familiar with Northwave boots so I’m not sure what their outersole length is like – whether they are low profile at all – but I think the 256mm waist would be enough for you on the 162cm in terms of width, unless the Northwave boots have a massive outersole. The extra width of the 161W would give you a bit more surface area for powder – though the 162 is slightly longer so that surface area wouldn’t be too far different.
If it was me and I had size 11s and I was riding mostly pow on it, then I’d probably say 161W because you probably will be getting a bit of extra surface area overall. I don’t like my board to be too wide but I would be happy with the 260mm on the 161W if I had size 11s. If I was riding it more on groomers, then the narrower 162 would probably be my choice. But for you I would go for the 161W. But like I say you fit in that space where both would actually work for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate
I m 1,76 m 78 kg and wear 12 in boots . I can buy a Jones Mountain Twin 2016 158w on sale. I ride in Argentina, powder , groomers , piste and out of piste, sometimes icy .I ve got 45 years in good shape for sports and I m a good intermediate rider.I ve buy these year malavita reflex )my other board is a process camber and my boots are ruler, with 50 60 days of use15 days each year. .what do you think these board could fit me , because I read excellent reviews of it.First I was thinking in buy a Burton Custom Camber but speaking with a friend he told me this board is excellent.Thans
Hi Nate
I write again because I don t know if I post it correctly.
I m from Argentina , 1.75 m 78 kg , 12 of boots ,good intermediate level , rides between 15 to 20 days each year ( more than 10 years ), I am 47 years old in good sport shape .Now I m riding a Process camber with malavitas and ruler boots ( about 50 days of use) .
But I ve got the oportunity of buy a jones mountain twin 158w in a sale at a really good price , As I read in all the reviwes these is an awesome board.What I usually ride is powder , groomers , piste , out of piste and practically no park or pipe.
I wonder if these board will suit me ,Thanks again
Hi Diego
Thanks for your message.
I think that size would be just right for you. If you said you liked to ride the park a lot, then I’d say go smaller but from what you describe, I think this will be the perfect length for you.
It’s also a good all round board that should suit you well, in terms of riding powder and on the groomers – and is also suitable for an intermediate level.
My only concern would be the width, which is bordering on being too narrow. However, since you have Burton Rulers (which have good reduced footprint tech) I think you should be ok with the width.
Just to clarify a couple of things to give you a more accurate answer:
1. This is based on US size 12. If it’s in a different sizing let me know.
2. What is the length of the Process Camber you are riding? What you are used to can also influence sizing choice.
Hope this answers your questions
Thanks Nate the process is 154 but I felt it a bit short , my last board was a custom restricted ,the one with fruits , and I felt it 156 and more confortable , and the one before was a custom camber wide 158 or 157 , I don t remenber well.
My boots are 12 us .What do you think about malavita reflex with the jones mountain twin .
Again thens for your time and answers
Hi Diego
Thanks for your response. I think that the 158W Mountain Twin should be fine. It’s a bit longer than the 154 Process and 156 Custom. But if the 154 feels too short then longer is good – and also, the Mountain Twin has rocker in the profile whereas the Process is full camber – so the Mountain Twin will have a shorter feel on snow than a camber board – so I think the 158 in the Mouintain Twin should be a good size.
The Malavitas should work well with the Mountain Twin assuming they are re:flex as the EST model won’t fit on them…. oh just saw that you said reflex – so should be all good!
Thanks a lot Nate !!!!!
You’re very welcome!
Hi Nate,
Do you think I could fit on a 160 with size 11.5 boots?
I am 185lbs and 6′ so I thought that would be a good size for me.
Thanks!
Hi Jarod
I think the 160 would be a little bit too narrow for 11.5s. I wouldn’t risk it. But I think the 161W would be the ideal size for you, both in terms of length and width.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking into buying the ultra mountain twin. You think the 157wide would be wide enough for my 12 boots? (board doesn’t seem be very wide, looking at the specs. More like midwide)
I weigh 148 lbs (67kg) and am 6.13 feet tall (187) cm, so don’t really want to go to the 161 wide, given my wieght.
Best,
Ruben
Hi Ruben
Yeah, unfortunately they aren’t overly wide. 158W (258mm waist) probably too narrow for size 12s – although you’d probably get away with it if you have low profile boots. Do you own boots? If so, what brand/year are they?
I agree that going to 161 would be going a bit long for your specs.
I think you’ll be ok on the 158W if you have low profile boots – but if not then I wouldn’t risk it.
Thanks for the quick response. I own my own boots: Nitro Anthem TLS (2010-2011). Not too sure if they are low profile boots. And no budget for new shoes + new board unfortunately.
Nitro Anthem at evo
Thanks for the quick response! I own a pair of Nitro Anthem TLS (2010). Not too sure if this is a low profile boot?
They look pretty big in real life 🙂
Hey Ruben
I’m not that familiar with Nitro boots but from what I’ve heard they aren’t the lowest profile. Not the biggest outersole either, but 2010/11 model probably does have quite a big outersole. So yeah, unfortunately I probably wouldn’t risk the 258mm waist on 12s of those boots.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for very inormative reviews!
Choosing between 2 #3 boards from your top.
The choice is both the model and size.
1. Jones Mountain twin 161w
2. Slash Brainstorm 163w
I like to ride everywhere from pists to powder and am just curious whether 161w Jones will be drowning in pow or slash will be uncontrollable on speed by my weight.
I am 6 ft 3, 192 lbs (192 cm, 87 kg) with 12 US (30 cm) feet.
Any advice?
Hi Vlad
I think you’d get away with the 161W Mountain Twin. But I think the 163W Brainstorm is the better size for you. Otherwise, these boards are reasonably similar and I think the choice is really down to the better size – which I think is the 163W Brainstorm.
Either will work but that would be my choice.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the reply! I was not sure how your commenting system works so I posted same stuff in multple articles, sorry for that.
I’ve seen you advising 161w for guys of comparable weight, so thast’s why I was anxious that Slash will be worse in agility,carving & hardpack.
My ideal world was to get a new mountain twin 161w & a used 163w flagship from 2012 for ~$220 for powder, but I think it would not be worth as Slash will be universal.
Hi Vlad
I think if you were going to have a 163W Flagship, then the 161W would be a better size for the Mountain Twin – but if you’re just going to have one board i.e. the Brainstorm, then 163W is the best size for you.
Also, how do you think, would stiffness of 32 Lashed Boa be enough for Slash?
I have them available locally for a killer price of $130, whilst other considerable options are twice as much (K2 Maysis $275, 32 Binary Boa $265)
Can stiffer bindings compensate a softer boot?
Hi Vlad
I guess you could say that a stiffer binding can somewhat compensate for a softer boot – but not entirely. You will get a stiffer feel from a mid-stiff binding paired with a mid flexing boot than you would from a mid flex binding and a mid flex binding – but it still won’t feel the same as a mid-stiff boot and mid-stiff binding – if that makes sense.
And I certainly wouldn’t go with a super stiff binding to try and bring the overall stiffness up – If you were going to go with a mid-stiff binding, mid-flex board and a mid-flexing boot, I think that can work for sure – but I wouldn’t pair mid-stiff board and boots with a super-stiff binding, if that makes sense?
I would consider the Lashed Boa on the softer side of medium – but not really soft enough to be medium soft – I’d say they’re around 4.5/10 for stiffness (if 1 was the softest and 10 the stiffest). I’d say that the Brainstorm is around a 5.5/10 in terms of flex.
I think ideally, your boots would be slightly stiffer, but since they’re not too far off they would work – and for $130 that’s a great price. Also, I assume those are the Lashed Boas from 2017 which means they only have a single Boa. The 2018 models have been upgraded to a double Boa. That double boa would just give you that bit more in terms of being able to independently tighten the upper and lower sections separately for a more customized fit – and I do find that often double boas are better for heel hold. But $130 for those boots is still a really good price, so if price is really important, then they’re not a bad option but not the ideal option either.
Hope this helps
Hi again Nate,
Wow, thank you for such wide replies.
Probably will stick to brainstorm, hope will not be too long.
BTW, Jones on their website states that 161w is for 11.5 size Max – is that true?
As per bindings & boots, I look at Nitro Team – everyone says they’re midstiff.
With them
With them I think now of binary boa, are they on stiffer side than lashed boa?
Oh, one more thing – I how is brainstorm’s sidecut bump (I could not feel it on 163w BTW) compared to mountain twin’s magnatraction in terms of grip? You rode them both so It’d be a really valuable insight.
Hi Vlad
Even though the Brainstorm doesn’t have magne-traction I found it’s edge-hold in hard conditions to be as good as the Mountain Twin’s.
can this sidecut bump be absent on wide version? Cause I could never detect it.
Hi Vlad
The Brainstorm has a “progressive sidecut” so there are variable sidecuts along the way – but it’s very subtle changes. It’s not like magne-traction that actually have noticeable bumps along the sidecut. The wide version isn’t different in that respect to the regular width versions. It’s just that you don’t notice the changes in sidecut radius – whether on the wide or regular widths.
You’re very welcome Vlad.
I would say that you could squeeze onto the 161W with 12s but it would depend on binding angles, stance width, the profile of your boots etc. So, I can see why Jones would have 11.5 as the max.
I don’t demo Nitro gear, so I couldn’t say for sure, but the Teams are certainly rated mid-stiff.
I would say that the Binary Boas are slightly stiffer than the Lashed – not by heaps. But yeah by a little bit – maybe more like 5/10.
Aha, I see.
I currently ride Burton AMB 2012, all websites say that they’re also medium stiff, but in practice Lashed Boa & Binary Boa feel much stiffer.
Have you tried K2 maysis btw?
Hi Vlad
I’m not sure about 2012 AMBs – but I would say that last season’s AMBs were medium flex (and most websites I look at think the same) – a similar flex to the Binary Boa, I would say. But boots soften up overtime – so if you’ve had the AMBs since 2012, they will now be a lot softer than they were when they were new. So it’s no surprise that they feel softer than a new pair of Binary Boas.
K2 Maysis definitely mid-stiff – 7/10 for stiffness, I would say.
Thank you for all your replies!
Never thought I’d get much more useful info on gear from internet comments than from local gear shops:)
BTW, just curious, do you know whether weight recommendations in snowboard specs mean rider’s weight with gear (boots, jacket, abs backpack) or without?
Hi Vlad
You’re very welcome.
The weight recommendations are typically for your weight without gear on. That way it’s easier to determine where you fit (so that you don’t have to weight yourself with all your gear on).
Thanks again, makes sense.
By the way, have you ever tested Northwave or Deeluxe boots? Northwave Decade and Deeluxe Deemon seem to be nice miid-stiff boots while not being pricey.
Hi Vlad
Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to test anything from Northwave or Deeluxe
Hi there Nate,
I’m 6.1, 178lbs (no gear) and US12. I’m intermediate, and mainly ride groomers and some off-piste between the slopes. I need good edge-hold on ice since that’s what I frequently encounter where I board in Switzerland.
Do you recommend the Mountain Twin 161W or the 164W considering my boot size? I prefer a slightly mellower ride to an overly aggressive one. How does the MT compare to the Brainstorm and Explorer in that department?
Thx!
Is the 2018 version is stiffer than the 2017 and will be less playfull/easy to butter and switch (less freestyle abilities) and tend more to the powder freeride than both freestyle and freeride?
Hi Avi
I’d say that if the 2018 version is stiffer it’s stiffer in terms of it’s torsional flex and probably most of that more towards the center of the board – and shouldn’t effect it’s butterability. I would say, generally speaking that this board is probably slightly on the freeride side of things – but only just – it’s still something that you can ride freestyle on – and something that’s a great board in terms of being able to do a bit of everything well.
Hi Nate!
First of all: Great reviews! Really helps people who might not know everything about snowboarding, a lot.
I read a bunch of your reviews and I have ended up between two boards I would like. The Capita DOA and the Jones Mountain twin.
I have been snowboarding 3 times, and think it’s time for me to get my own board.
All my friends are skiing, and mostly on the piste, sometimes off. This means that I probably won’t spend a lot of time in the park, but I would still like a board where I can enjoy natural jumps, butters, and basic tricks. Just a board that I can progress my skills on, and still keeping up with my skiing friends.
Now to my question: Which of those 2 boards do you think would be most suitable for me? (I do all the black pistes without too much trouble)
All the best, Fabian
Hi Fabian
I think the Mountain Twin would definitely be your best option in this case. You can definitely still do jumps and ride freestyle but it’s going to be more versatile all round than the DOA and suit your needs better, IMO. Also, the DOA is a relatively aggressive/unforgiving ride and I think the Mountain Twin would be more suitable for your skill level.
Hope this helps and if you’d like my opinion on the best size for you, if you can let me know your height, weight and boot size, I would be happy to give you my size opinion
Hi Nate.
I’m a big bloke, 6’4″ or 6’5″ and around 100kg. Despite that I’ve been managing to do well with rental boards, but Im at the point where I really want my own set up tailored for me. I’ve been looking at an all mountain board, I’m not huge into parks though I don’t mind trying the occasional rails, but I prefer to find natural jumps and just cruise around buttering and every now and again going for a bit of a charge. I do want to take advantage of powder days when they are on, though, and I’m strongly considering a helitour on my next trip.
So far I’ve got 32 lashed (crab grab) boots in a size 14 (US) and paired them with Burton mission bindings. Large feet obviously reduced my options for boot choice, and I’ll obviously need a wide board. I guess I have a few questions;
1. Due to my size I’ve eyed off the 164w mountain twin as a top pick. I’m just wondering whether the leverage that my weight/height produces can affect the how stiff the board feels when I’m actually riding it? For example, if I’m looking for a 6/10 stiffness feel, would I instead look for a 7/10 rated stiffness and expect my weight/height to change how it feels during a ride?
2. I’ve heard the 2018 model is slightly stiffer than the 2017, and I’m wondering if you have any thoughts on how that affects the ‘playfulness’ of the board. The official statement is that it’s torsional stiffness but certain reviews have said it feels stiffer overall than the 2017, and I dont really have a chance to demo the board before I buy it.
3. Any general advice regarding board selection with a size 14 boot would be fantastic, even if it’s just an ‘avoid these features/style’ list?
4. If you don’t think the mountain twin would suit someone of my size, do you have any other suggestions?
I know it’s a lot of questions in a single comment, and even if youanswer just one of them I’d be really appreciative.
Cheers,
Raphael
Hi Raphael
Thanks for your message.
1. Yeah more weight on a board will make it feel softer. I don’t think it would be too much the case with the 164W Mountain Twin (MT) since it is rated for up to 100kg+ but to some extent it might feel a little softer. If you were way over the weight recommendations, then it would likely have a more significant affect on flex, but in this case I don’t think it would be majorly – at most, change the feel to a 5.
2. Yeah the extra stiffness is torsionally and is typically felt between the feet. I don’t think this affects the playfullness too much – the tip and tail are the same as far as I can tell – and that’s mostly what would affect things like butters.
3. For size 14s, it’s a tough one, because there aren’t a huge amount of options out there. IMO, the 164W MT will still be too narrow for 14s. There’s just going to be a lot of overhang there. I mean if you don’t do any like deep carving you might get away with it, but for size 14s, something with at least a 270mm waist is probably a safer option – and even then, I think you’re best to stick to binding angles like +15/-15. In terms of length, I think something around that 167 mark is a good option assuming you’re an advanced rider. If you’d consider yourself more intermediate, then going around 164, 165 is a good idea. And also, since you do like to ride a little more playful, then something a little shorter won’t hurt – just not too much shorter because you still want some powder performance. So 164-167 depending on ability/preference, IMO.
4. Some options that would work for you, based on specs (these aren’t boards I’ve tried as they’re too wide for me to test, but they’re all-mountain and are made for bigger guys – especially in terms of bigger boots):
~ Lib Tech Skunk Ape: 165W (268mm waist) – still pushing it with being a little narrow, but should be ok so long as you’re not someone who does really deep carves and with binding angles with a reasonable angle on the back foot.
~ Nitro Magnum: 163W (270mm waist) or 167W (272mm waist)
~ Batalleon Stallion: 164W (268mm waist) or 167W (275mm waist)
Hope this helps and gives you some more options.
Great information, really appreciate your suggestions. The stallion was also on my short-list since it was designed with wide in mind. Maybe I’ll take a closer look at it.
Thanks again.
You’re very welcome Raphael
Hi Nate!
I m, 1.77 m 76-78 kg (5,8; 168-172), 11 boots (11US Ion), intermediate level
I ride piste and out of piste, groomers, powder, freeride, no park or pipe
Could you give me a recommendation of what would best suit me?
MOUNTAIN TWIN 155W or ultra MOUNTAIN TWIN 168W?
thanks!
Hi Sergy
Thanks for your message.
The 158W would be the best size for you, IMO. You might even get on the 157 if you have binding angles like +15/-15 (i.e. a reasonable angle on the back binding) and that would be a good size too – and with angles like that and with Burton boots (lower profile than the average boot), I’d say you’d be ok. But otherwise the 158W – and you could still definitely ride that, even with +15/-15 angles, but just that you would be pushing the 157 being too narrow on anything with a straighter back binding angle, if that makes sense. I think definitely the 158W over the 155W for you (I’m assuming the 168W was a typo and you meant 158W).
Hope this helps
Thanks Nat, it was very helpfull! Оf course the 168W was a typo and I meant 158W!
I bought 158w (I have binding angles near -6/+21)!
How do you think: may i use it for backcountry or freeride tours or is it better to buy specialized freerideboard for this purpose (for example flagship оr RossiXV)?
Hi Sergy
Yeah for backcountry tours good to have something more designed for that kind of thing (like a freeride board as you mentioned) – you could ride the Mountain Twin out there for sure, but you would get more out of a board that’s more designed for that kind of thing.
Hi Nate,
Great review, I’ve bought it last week (2018 model) but I’ve noticed HUGE discolorations on day one use of this board. 2 very dark lines have developed in the centre of the board, top to tail. They’re totally ruining the artwork! I don’t think this is normal as have used countless boards before without any issues. Have you or anyone else had this too?
Thanks!
George
Hi George
I haven’t noticed this with the Mountain Twin. The demo I rode didn’t have this issue – and it had already been ridden a few days by the time I got on it – so I agree, I don’t think is normal. I’ve also never experienced this with any other board. I would contact Jones about this – and see what they say.
Thanks Nate!
I’ve uploaded 2 pics of it here. Wish I’d taken a photo before I used it but they weren’t there before. Strange…..
View Pics
Hi George
That is very strange. I mean there are some subtle lines that run up that graphic but they don’t look like that. And as you say, they weren’t there when you first board the board. Very strange. I would be interested to hear what Jones say about it.
No answer from Jones? Saw these lines too…
Hey Nate..
Ive been riding for over 20 years although i only ride a week or 2 per year nowdays in French Alps, also started going to the indoor snow domes in the U.K with my kids who have just learnt to snowboard…my freestyle abilities are sketchy and dont spend too much time in the park on big kickers anymore only small ones.
I still love to butter and ride switch at speed on the groomers.. also still love to pop off natural hits and tweak it out.
My problem is this.. i have been riding a 2004 Custom X 164 for the last 10 years.. i want something more playful and forgiving for buttering, ollies etc for when i am cruising with the kids down mellow green runs or when indoors at home in the snow dome, but still need to be stable at high speed when i am hitting steep stuff going really fast when i get some downtime with my skier mates in the afternoons! Also hitting the powder if we get a dump.
How stiff is my old Custom X compared to todays “stiff” boards?
It was always poor in the powder but awsome when carving at full speed and had loads of pop! I even manage to butter on it but unless going fast when buttering it will put u on your face!
Like i say i do want something more forgiving and playful..i definitely want some rocker in the tips..I really like the sound of the Mountain twin or lib tech TRS , but will they be too soft for me? Do i need the ultra mountain twin or maybe the Aviator, or are they just as stiff as my old Custom X ???
I have my eye on a mountain twin 162
TRS 162 or…. Jones Aviator 160 wide/Ultra mountain twin 161.
Or do i need something else?
I am 6.4
Weight 82kg
Size uk 11/us 12 never rode a wide board in the past and never had issues wi toe drag..the old custom x measures 253 at the waist.
Also..boards seem to shorter now. Im surprised im looking at boards less than 164 but there doesnt seem to be many out there..we used to go by height but seems to be down to weight nowdays?
Your advice would be really apreciated..please help cos its doing my head in:)
Dan.
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
Starting with size, yeah more about weight than height these days – but height still comes into it, IMO – mainly because of stance widths. I’d say something around 163, 164 would be a good length for you, assuming an advanced level, which it sounds like you are. However, going a little shorter isn’t a bad idea, if you’re looking for something more playful. But as you still want stability at speed, then I wouldn’t go too much shorter. And since you’re used to 164, then that comes into it as well. If you’ve been riding that a long time, then going too much shorter would be a big adjustment.
In terms of width, I would certainly usually recommend a wide for US12s, but if you’re comfortable sticking with a regular width and if you’ve had no issues on the 164 Custom X, then that shouldn’t be a problem.
I’m not sure about the stiffness of 2004 Custom X, I don’t have any experience with that particular board (before my time demoing gear). But I have heard that boards were typically stiffer back then, and since the Custom X of recent times is still rather stiff (at least compared to a lot of other boards), then I imagine the 2004 Custom X is really up there in terms of stiffness.
With the boards you’ve mentioned these are what I would consider their flex feel:
>>Custom X (current): 9/10
>>Jones Ultra Mountain Twin: 8/10, but maybe even closer to 9/10 – in the 2019 model, earlier models not quite as stiff
>>Mountain Twin: 6/10 – 2019 model maybe closer to 6.5/10
>>Aviator: 7/10 (review coming)
>>TRS: 5/10
I’ve linked to the reviews for each above as well if you want to check out more details.
The TRS certainly the softest and going to be the most playful/freestyle oriented there. And the least stable at speed, IMO.
The Ultra Mountain Twin not going to be much softer than what you have. Quite stiff (or at least the 2019 model is – the 2019 model is the first time I’ve ridden it).
I think the Aviator and the Mountain Twin are going to be the best options for you, from what you’re describing. And between those, I think Mountain Twin. The Aviator is a little more aggressive in terms of the camber profile and a little stiffer – so it would be less of a difference to what you currently have (though still certainly more playful and not as stiff, but less of a difference than the Mountain Twin would be). Which would mean an easier adjustment. But the Mountain Twin is a very versatile board and is going to be better in powder than the Aviator, IMO. And still holds up well at speed. It’s going to certainly feel a lot softer and more playful than what you’re currently riding, but it’s not super soft/super playful in the scheme of things – it’s still something that leans towards the freeride side of “do-it-all” in my experience – so it can handle carving, speed, powder etc well – but you can also butter on it, good for jumps, riding switch etc too. But isn’t too soft/playful for you, which I think it sounds like you’re trying to avoid.
Given that you want to stick to regular width, I would say the 162 would be the best size for you for the Mountain Twin.
For the other boards, these are the sizes I would go with, if you were to choose one of them:
>>UMT: 162
>>TRS: 162
>>Aviator: 162 or 164
The other thing if you wanted to go as playful as the TRS (which on the scale of things still isn’t a noodle or anything – there are much more loose/playful boards out there – but is the most playful of the boards you mentioned) but kept your Custom X for charging days. But it sounds like you want one board, that can do multiple things in the same day?
Anyway, hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Love the reviews and really appreciate all the information you have posted.
I have recently looked at the 2019 JMT and is seriously considering purchasing one. I stand about 173cm and weight about 67kg without gear and about 73-75kg with gear (as I usually carry a backpack). Im a US 10 on a Burton Moto as well.
Given that, what size board would you recommend for the JMT? I don’t do park and is mainly using it for riding both on groomed and the occasional powder if there is.
Also, I’m looking to purchase the Burton Genesis 2018 as well. Would M be a right fit for me?
Cheers Nate.
Hi Derrick
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of the Genesis, the M would be the best size for you with Moto 10s, IMO.
Length for you for the JMT, I would be weighing up between the 154 and the 157. Ordinarily for your specs, I would say go with the 154, for sure. But since you ride with a bit of extra weight and since you don’t ride any park, then the 157 comes into play. The 154 is still an option but the 157 might be the better choice. If you’re an advanced rider then I would say go with the 157. If you more at an intermediate level then the 154 might be better.
Also to consider:
~ The 157 will be more stable at speed, better on long arcing carves and better in powder.
~ The 154 will be more maneuverable at slower speeds, and better for more freestyle aspects (though it sounds like that’s not your thing). Better in trees too, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the great information Nate. What would you consider intermediate or advanced level? I generally ride regular and very rarely (because I can’t) go into switch. I’m comfortable going down blue runs and can carve pretty well on blue runs. Black diamonds are fine for me, just that I find myself slowing down a lot.
And just for added information, I own a GNU Carbon Credit 2014 in a 153W and a Burton Cartels in L because I used to ride on a bigger shoe. Based off that, which would you recommend if I’m looking for a final end game board?
Hi Derrick
Based on your description I would say your a solid to high-end intermediate rider.
I think the Mountain Twin is going to be a really good board for you, the only thing is going to be the size. If you’re thinking this is the last board you’ll ever buy kind of thing and you want something that’s going to be stable at speed and float well in powder, and you don’t think you’ll really get into riding park or freestyle, then I think the 157 is the best bet. But otherwise I think you’ll enjoy the 154 more right now – and it will be better if you want to start trying some freestyle stuff at any point.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi nate, i am thinking about the 167w. i like to freeride and don’t ride park. i am 6’2″, 265 lbs and size 12 boot. would the 167w be able to handle my size? coming from a traditional camber board, i have been nervous about how these newer boards will ride. also, how would you compare this wide board to others like: lib tech skunk ape? or anything else that may work for me. i’m open to suggestions. thanks
Hi Aaron
Thanks for your message.
I think the 167W would be a good size for you. I think it would be able to handle your size. However, if you don’t ride any park and you’re a relatively advanced level rider, then you might also want to consider a freeride board. Check out the following for some options:
>> My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards
But if you’re more of an intermediate level rider, then something like the Mountain Twin or other “all-mountain” boards would work best. Some other options are below:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Hybrid camber profiles, like on the Mountain Twin definitely feel different to traditional camber, and there’s always an adjustment period, but once you get used to it, I think you’ll enjoy it – especially if you like to ride powder. If you don’t see powder that much/don’t ride it, then an aggressive all-mountain might be more your thing:
>>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards
Moving from traditional camber to a hybrid option, the easiest transition would be hybrid camber (camber between and under the feet, with rocker towards tip and tail) – like the Mountain Twin has. Going hybrid rocker is a bigger change as you have rocker between the feet, which makes for a more different feel compared to traditional camber.
With size 12 boots, I don’t think you need to look at wide specific boards, like the Skunk Ape. You’ll need to go wide for sure, but you don’t need to go ultra wide. The following is my take on width sizing:
>>Snowboard Width Sizing
Hope this all makes sense, and helps with your decision.
I am an advanced level rider. i like riding switch, carving, getting a little air and love riding powder. i just gave up on park, cause i’m getting older and prefer not to get hurt. i have always ridden full camber, but i am game to try something different. my main focus right now is eliminating the toe, heel drag i have. that alone will make carving more fun. thanks for the suggestions.
You’re very welcome Aaron.
Hopefully you find something in there that will be a good match. Let me know if you’re getting closer and want to discuss further. Since you like riding switch, then something like the Mountain Twin (as opposed to a freeride board) might be a good option. You could also look at the Ultra Mountain Twin (though it doesn’t come in a 167W)
Hey Nate,
Trying to decide between the 160 and 162 mountain twin. Im 5’10 and about 225-230. Size 10 boot. Ice coast rider whos looking for a daily driver that can handle park laps, charging, powder if we get it, and trees. What are your thoughts between the two sizes? Thanks.
Hi Tyler
Good question. I would say for your specs, for an all-mountain size, generally something around a 162 would be a good bet, assuming you’re at a relatively advanced level of riding. However, given that you also want it for the trees and for the park, the 160 would definitely work for you too.
Generally speaking I would say, to a subtle but still noticeable level, that:
1. The 162 will float better in powder
2. The 162 will be more stable at speed
3. The 162 will be better for open wide arcing carves
4. The 160 will be better in trees
5. The 160 will be better in the park.
Also note, that the 162 Mountain Twin has the same tip and tail length as the 160. So that extra 2cm is all in the effective edge, so that will make it more noticeable.
So, in short, both would work but it depends on what you want to sacrifice a little bit of.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Most of my riding is done in PA so pretty small resorts without alot of wide open runs. Get to Vermont a few times a year and love hitting the steep runs. Would like to get out west next year. Do you think the 160 would be the better bet since most of my riding is small Pa mountains? Just want something that can handle the steeper stuff too when I get out there. Thanks for the insight. Currently riding a 2015 trs 159, and also have a k2 simple pleasures 156 waiting to get on the mountain.
Hi Tyler
Given that you ride small resorts mostly, then that does lean things more towards 160, IMO.
Do you plan on keeping the TRS? If so, then you could use that as your park board, the Simple Pleasures as your trees/surfy powder board (if you have days where you choose to do mostly those things) and have the Mountain Twin as your everything else/daily driver and to use for the bigger resorts when you get to them. If so, then the 162 might be the better bet. Won’t be as good in the park, trees, slower shorter runs etc but still use-able in there.
If you were planning on getting rid of the TRS, then maybe the 160 would be the better option overall.
Thanks for helping me think it all through man! I will be keeping the TRS so the 162 might be the best option. My body can’t handle a lot of park anymore as I get older, so I’m trying to lean away from that. I’m sure the 162 will handle mellow park laps like some jumps with grabs and simple 50/50 and board slides if I need it to. Thanks again for the words of wisdom!
You’re very welcome Tyler. Hope you have an awesome season this winter!
Hey Nate,
Excellent review, thanks.
Ive just bought the 155w 2018 twin, wasnt sure between the 157 or 155w, my specs are,
Height 6’0.
Weight 160lbs/72kg with no gear on.
Boots 9.5uk
Stance front +15, back -9 setback.
Riding style, originally wanted to buy the flagship for powdays but decided on the twin because everyday I ride will involve groomers at least 30-40% of the day.
Powder, not really a point and shoot guy, i like to huck off and hit natural features, lots of 180’s and switch landings and a lot of tight trees. I also like to practice my bigger rotations etc on pow days sometimes because of the forgiving landings, hence the twin choice.
Groomers, also no specific style but do like to play around, side hits etc, like to gun it as well and race down sometimes with some carving.
Park, i have a 152 ride kink for park days but if I was to bring in the jones it wouldnt be anything extreme, small/medium kickers, not much rails and maybe the odd box, again, if i plan a park day ill bring the park setup. Mainly bought the Jones for the off piste/pow days.
Just wondering was the 155w a better choice over the 157, i tend to prefer a smaller board in general which is why i chose the 155w, just got it last week so can swap it for the 157 if you think that would be better.
Thanks
Hi Ronan
Thanks for your message.
Both sizes would be appropriate (I think you’d just fit on the 157 width-wise with 10.5s and +15/-9 angles) but I’m leaning towards 155W.
You do get that extra effective edge on the 157, which would be good for carving and stability at speed, but by what you’re describing as your style, I think the benefits of the 155W would be more pertinent for you.
The 155W would be great for trees, side-hits etc. Would also give you a slightly more stable landing platform for any natural features, 180s etc – and better in terms of 180s in general (I prefer shorter boards for spins personally anyway). Even though I don’t know the exact surface area measurements, I suspect the 155W would have a little more surface area overall – though it’s not ultra-wide so probably only by a little bit. But that would also make it a little more floaty or at least the equal of the 157 in terms of float.
So, both would certainly work, but I would be leaning towards the 155W – also, then you definitely won’t have any width issues – and since it’s not super wide, it shouldn’t be too wide either. But if you bomb/carve more than I’m thinking, then there’s an argument to go 157, but based on what you’re describing, I think the 155W would be the slightly better choice.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision