My Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards

Comments

1. Kynan Fletcher says

   May 30, 2016 at 12:21 pm

   Hi Nate,

   I’m really tearing my hair between the top 2, an ATV or The Standard, I’ve looked into a lot of freeriding boards such as the Yes PYL and even some medium flex boards like the Ride Helix. I’m looking for a board that will be able to hold its own in steep icy and hard snow conditions as well as being playful enough to hop off the occasional kicker or maybe even pipe. I tend to put a lot of power into riding and carve mostly groomers and the odd patches of choppy pow. I am also not that tall/heavy at 5’6″ and 65Kgs, I know that the 2016 Standard has changed a lot since the 2015 but it still seems like you get a lot more tech in the ATV than The Standard even though it’s considerably less expensive. What do you think are the main differences between the top two and what would you possibly recommend for a slightly lighter rider? Also would a 158cm be manageable or would it have to be a 156cm board? Also would I be able to adventure a little with these boards too or would the ATV/Standard just be too aggressive for choppy uneven pow?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     May 30, 2016 at 3:24 pm

     Hey Kynan

     Thanks for visiting. There’s very little between the top 2 (hence I scored them the same). When I demoed the 2017 versions recently I did slightly prefer the ATV – but still not a lot in it (and different conditions on different days can affect this too). And you’re probably looking at the 2016 models.

     I felt the Standard is slightly better (but not by much in powder) and part of that is down to small rocker sections at tip and tail. It’s technically a hybrid rocker camber as opposed to the ATV’s full camber – but really the Standard only has a moderate and short section of rocker.

     The ATV is just that better at speed and with carving. And to me these are two of the really important factors in an aggressive board.

     Both boards will definitely serve your need for hitting the occasional kicker and for riding the pipe.

     Neither will be great in powder but you could still take them out into the backcountry. But if you’re going to be doing that a lot then a freeride deck would be a better option – or even something like the Slash Brainstorm, Jones Flagship or Niche Story.

     I don’t think wither would necessarily be better or worse for a lighter rider.

     In terms of size I would definitely say go for the 156cm over the 158cm. I’d even say the 154cm might be your best bet but certainly 156 over the 158. 158cm would be too long for you in my opinion.

     Hope this helps.

     Reply

2. Dab says

   December 19, 2016 at 2:55 pm

   Ive been riding the custom x for about 10 yrs now (25yr veteran rider). I love going olympic style fast mostly groomers icy east , natural hips jumps etc.. im the guy whos all dressed in black and has his hands tied behind his back leaning forward and just bombing it super super quick tiny itsy edge to edge .. now what would be the next level deck for a guy like me

   1. Slash ATV/Aurora ? Or same lines of the CX

   2. Jones carbon flagship
   3. Amplid UNW8, in which i was leaning towards the most if not just get another x if theres not anything lighter faster quicker edge to edge and can handle chunder better ice better..

   Any recommendations will be awesome !!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     December 20, 2016 at 9:32 am

     Hey Dab

     I’m not really familiar with Amplid but I can give you my opinion on the rest.

     I’d say they’re all of equal ability when it comes to hard/icy conditions. So you’ll get in those conditions what you get out of the Custom X roughly speaking – which is pretty good.

     Judging by the fact that it sounds like you are typically in hard/icy conditions on the groomers a lot I would say the Carbon Flagship would be the least suitable – it’s still good at carving but sacrifices a little bit of carving ability to be better in the powder. The others are better for carving but not as good powder-wise.

     In term of speed from edge-to-edge, the Custom X and the ATV would be the fastest, IMO. So I’d say the ATV and the Custom X are your best bets. With the Custom X probably a bit better for powder and the ATV better with jumps and for riding switch if you ever do that kind of thing.

     I hope this helps with your decision.

     Reply

3. Lance says

   January 14, 2017 at 6:43 pm

   Hello! I found deals on the 2016 Slash ATV. Looks like a great board. I cant decide between a 158 or 161. I currently have a k2 Zep 2007 161 (still rockin this awesome thing) and i love it, but its been put through the wringer. I bought a Burton Flight attendant (162) to replace it last season, but i am not thrilled with it. Its too much freeride and not enough an aggressive mtn charger which won’t flinch on anything. Any recommendations for an ATV 158 vs 161 or am i overthinking this? I’m 180lb, 5’10. I ride pretty agressively and am looking for a nimble ride which can handle it all. Thanks!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     January 15, 2017 at 2:35 pm

     Hi Lance

     If I was you I would go for the 158cm with your specs. For a freeride board I think 161cm would be ok – and it would still be ok for the ATV – but I would personally prefer the 158 (I’m 6’0″, 185lbs). But I do tend to like boards that I’m at the top end of the weight recommendations for. So said another way, I like my boards a little bit shorter than what I would term my “standard size” – though it also depends on the type of board.

     For me, my “standard size” for an all-mountain board is 160cm to 161cm but I prefer around 158cm to 159cm for an all-mountain board. For a freeride board I would go as long as 161 and for a freestyle board I’d go as short as 155cm.

     For you I would put your standard “all-mountain” size at 159cm. In which case the 158cm is pretty close. But if you prefer to go slightly longer then the 161cm definitely isn’t out of range.

     The other reason I say 158cm is that you mention the word nimble.

     The 158cm will feel more nimble/maneuverable and be a bit quicker edge-to-edge.

     The 161cm will have better float in powder & more stability at speed.

     So it’s really a weigh up between which you want more – quicker maneuverability or more stability at speed (of course that’s not to say that the 161 won’t be maneuverable and that the 158 won’t be stable at speed – this is just relative to each other).

     Hope this novel has given you more info to go off!

     Reply

     • Lance says

       January 15, 2017 at 5:45 pm

       Wow! This is very helpful. Thank you so much for your reply and keep on shredding and reporting on gear! There is so much gear out there these days and it takes someone who can actually ride and test the gear out get a re-liable source of info. Thank you.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         January 16, 2017 at 11:56 am

         Hi Lance

         You’re very welcome. Glad I could help. Hope you have an awesome season!

         Reply

4. Josh says

   February 1, 2017 at 7:52 pm

   My trusted Burton Triumph has finally asked to be hung up. I’m considering both the Custom X and Flight Attendant as a replacement. Most of my time is spent off the groomers finding hops and enjoying the mountain…No parks, but I do love the last stretch home on the chopped up groomer. Any preferences?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 2, 2017 at 2:04 pm

     Hey Josh

     I would say Flight Attendant for you. The main reason I say that is that I found it better on choppy groomers. Also, it’s better in powder and if you’re off the groomers a lot, then I’m guessing you ride in powder a reasonable amount.

     The Flight Attendant is equal on most things with the Custom X but better in powder and better on choppy snow. The Custom does have a bit better edge-hold in hard/icy conditions. That would be the only thing it has over the Flight Attendant (IMO). I rate both boards highly but if you’re going to be in powder a bit, then Flight Attendant. If you’re going to be in hard/icy conditions a lot and not that much powder, then I’d go Custom X, instead.

     Hope this helps.

     Reply

5. Justin says

   January 20, 2018 at 5:11 pm

   Just checking to see if this post will go up

   Reply

   • Nate says

     January 20, 2018 at 8:43 pm

     Hi Justin

     It’s up – but all comments are moderated, so are checked before being published on site. I have answered your other comment in the other post – Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards – let me know if you didn’t get the response and I can copy over what I wrote there.

     Reply

6. Ben says

   February 1, 2018 at 9:12 am

   Hi Nate!

   Thanks for the info. Im quite a heavy rider (230 pounds). Plus I like to Ride rocks, trees, street and all mountain/park. What would be a Tough agressive board to your opinion.

   Thanks have a good winter!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 1, 2018 at 11:00 am

     Hi Ben

     I can’t really comment on what’s a tough board. I don’t typically get to ride anything long enough to test durability – but you’re looking for aggressive then I’d say the top 3 on this list – but also based on what you’re describing, I would also check out the list at the link below. They might be even more suited to your style.

     ~ Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

     Hope this helps

     Reply

7. Leif says

   February 1, 2018 at 1:13 pm

   Nate,

   I just stumbled across your site and am really enjoying your reviews and insights. Quick stats: 5’10”, 175lbs, size 10 Salomon Malamutes, Burton CO2 bindings, been riding for 20+ years.

   I’m looking at retiring my 2011 NS Heritage (158) at the end of this season, and am hoping to grab a new board when they go on sale. That board has been really fun and works well for my riding style. I think I’ve narrowed my choices down to a NS West or a Jones Explorer (159s), but am open to suggestions. I’m looking for any additional advice you could give that you haven’t already covered in your (very detailed) reviews. I’m on the west coast, and ride Mammoth for the most part, but make trips out to CO, UT, etc every other year or so. I pretty much ride everything except park, but prefer steep and deep (who doesn’t) and trees, and am always down to pack my snowshoes and hike. I also ride switch groomers a bunch when I’m cruising with the wife, so my board needs to be at least competent switch. Last thing, I have no cartilage left in my lead knee, so a damp board that helps eliminate some chunder is a definite plus.

   Thanks in advance.

   Leif

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 2, 2018 at 10:23 am

     Hi Leif

     Thanks for your message.

     I think you’re bang on in terms of those boards for how you ride and 159 is the size I would recommend for both for you as well. Though the Explorer does ride a little shorter, so that’s something you could consider going to the 162 for, but the 159 would work as well.

     In terms of dampness, I wouldn’t say that either were considerably damp – but they’re also not chattery either. They’re somewhere in the middle, IMO. Another option – also in the 159 – is the Rossignol One. I found this to be a little damper than you’re average all-mountain board and otherwise suits your needs.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

8. Don says

   March 24, 2018 at 8:47 pm

   Hi Nate
   I’m an ex competitive surfer with 40yrs experience in the water, so I totally realize board selection is a personal thing (I’m sure you’ll agree). Reason I’m saying this is that I have my eye on the T.Rice pro as a all round pow/groomer/all mountain charger, yet it’s not on the list and judging from product reviews elsewhere, it’s the bees knees of all mountain boards. I read a review of the board on another website where one person said he sold his whole quiver except for his Custom X and uses the Pro almost exclusively.
   Apologies if you’ve already reviewed/included the T.Rice Pro elsewhere on the site.

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 26, 2018 at 1:14 pm

     Hi Don

     Yeah – board selection is a personal thing. But one reason it’s not in this list is that I categorize it as an aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle board.

     And the main reason it didn’t make that list for me, is just that I found it a lot of effort to get turns going quickly on it. Edge-to-edge was a bit of an effort to get going quickly and it felt a bit heavy on snow to me. Now, like you say it’s an individual thing and I have heard others rave about it. Overall, I enjoyed the ride but that was the one thing that held it back for me. But I think I would have preferred the 155 (I rode the 157) – and even though I would normally go 157, 158 for this type of board, the T Rice Pro is a little wider, and I think the 155 would have been a better size for me on balance – and that would make it feel lighter/quicker edge-to-edge. Others might also be more athletic than me in terms of leg/core strength, power to weight ratio, that kind of thing, which makes a difference too.

     You can read more in my review of the T Rice Pro at the link below if you’d like:

     >>Lib Tech T Rice Pro Review

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Don says

       March 26, 2018 at 2:19 pm

       Thanks Nate. Yip, I’ve heard it’s not the easiest board to ride. You’re super fortunate to ride all these boards and make comparisons. Problem for people like me is I do 3 weeks in Europe once a year and there’s very few to no demo’s. Would be magic to try various boards like you do, not so much to assist in making the right purchase, but to get the most out of snowboarding. Gonna read your T Rice pro review, thanks again.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 27, 2018 at 9:34 am

         You’re very welcome Don.

         Would be interested to hear what you end up going with.

         Reply

9. Per-Chr. says

   April 3, 2018 at 12:09 pm

   Hi Nate,
   Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge here! I’ve learned a lot from your reviews and comments.

   I’m picking up my ‘old’ hobby after several years with small kids and would like to renew my gear. I’m 47 years, 6’2″ (188 cm) tall, 180 lbs (81 kg). I would regard my self as an advanced snowboard rider, but out of shape now after many years with family life.

   My current board is a Salomon 550 freeride board from 2000, 164 cm long. It’s still really good, but chatter a bit at high speeds. I would really like a board for speed, carving, the occational small jumps on the side of the tracks, and the occational powder. No half pipe or park here. Oftentimes the conditions will be icy snow. I was torn between all-mountain and aggressive all-mountain boards, also looking into freeride boards. I considered the Rossignol One, but that would leave with a wide board (shoe size US 10/10.5), so now I’m not sure anymore.

   What would your suggestions for me be?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 4, 2018 at 10:16 am

     Hi Per-Chr

     Thanks for your message.

     Firstly, in terms of length, I think something around 161, 162 would be a good length for you. You could still go for something up to 164 if you wanted, but you could down size a little as well.

     For the Rossi One, the longest non-wide is 159 unfortunately. That certainly wouldn’t be excessively small for you by any means, but on the small side, especially if you’re used to a 164. Width-wise, assuming you got into 10s for your boots, you would fit on the Rossignol One – and even with 10.5s you might be ok, depending on binding angles. If you ride with angles like +15/-15 or something with a reasonable angle on the back foot, then even 10.5s would be fine on something like the One 159. But I’m guessing you’d prefer to go longer than that.

     I think something like the Jones Explorer 162 would be a good option – it’s kind of in between an all-mountain and aggressive all-mountain. In hard/icy conditions it’s good but not as good as something like the Rossi One (I’d say 4/5 in hard conditions, compared to 5/5 for Rossi One).

     The Slash ATV 161, GNU Billy Goat 162 would also be good options – and again I’d say 4/5 in terms of hard/icy conditions – but more aggressive than the Explorer.

     And of course if you wanted to stick with Salomon – the Man’s Board 162 (which I would also say 4/5 in hard/icy conditions).

     Going more all-mountain, the Mountain Twin, Never Summer West and Slash Brainstorm would all work too – just a little softer flexing/more playful in terms of both flex and camber profiles.

     For Freeride, the YES PYL would be a great choice – great in hard/icy conditions too. Better than most freeride boards for side-hits as well, in my experience. The Rossignol XV is great in those conditions and another good option. The Never Summer Chairman and Jones Flaghip are also good in hard/icy, IMO (4/5) but not quite as good as YES PYL and Rossi XV.

     Hope this gives you more info to go off and let me know if you want to know more to narrow your options down

     Reply

     • Per-Chr. says

       April 6, 2018 at 5:37 am

       Thanks a lot Nate! Yes you’re guessing right, – I prefer going longer than 159 so the Rossi One is off my list. My reason for bying a new board is that I want to ride faster and enjoy carving (and quick edge to edge turning, – not switching) more than I feel mye current board allows me. But it’s really hard to estimate what I’ll get as I only have one reference (the Salamon 550) with no specs about stiffness etc. I know it has a 4000 sintered base and is a high end directional board, and that it’s described as “easy, quick, responsive, snappy, suited for light, technical finesse riders”. I still enjoy the board, but it lags behind in the speed/carving department, so my dream board would be a stick that blended the qualities of my Salomon whith better stability and speed capabilities. Do you still think Jones Explorer tics the boxes for me? As I understand, it will be forgiving at lower speeds (compared to the Flagship among others), which is a good thing for me as I also will be cruising alongside my kids some of the time.

       I also find myself being drawn to the Yes PYL. This is the side of me that wants to ride alone in my own (fast) pace, to press and charge hard. On the other hand, I don’t want a dedicated bomber either.

       Thanks again for helping me narrow my options down further.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         April 6, 2018 at 9:29 am

         Hi Per-Chr.

         In my experience, the Explorer is one of those boards that can ride aggressively but is also something that’s more forgiving at slower speeds. Not to the point that a soft beginner board or freestyle type board is, but more so than others with similar flex and camber.

         I would say that the PYL is quicker edge-to-edge than the Explorer but the Explorer isn’t bad in that department, it’s just that the PYL is really up there as one of the quickest responding boards I’ve ridden. It’s really nimble (compared to other boards of its type, it was the best I rode going through tight trees) given it’s flex and for a stiffer freeride board, it’s something that’s not too tricky when riding slower – not as forgiving at slower speeds as the Explorer but not too far off either.

         Reply

         • Per-Chr. says

           April 7, 2018 at 8:36 am

           Thanks again! I know you haven’t reviewed it, but how does the Yes Optimistic fit in here? I have trouble finding PYL and Explorer around here, but have a chance to pick up an Optimistic 2019 157 demo for half of full price.

         • Nate says

           April 9, 2018 at 5:42 pm

           Hi Per-Chr

           The Optimistic is certainly quite aggressive and is quick edge to edge. It’s stiffer than the PYL but it’s something you ride shorter than you normally would. It’s a short/wide (so wider but shorter than normal). Something that I really like for the trees. So yeah, given that you’re used to a 164, and I’d say 161, 162 is a good way to go, for the Optimistic, the 157 would be a good way to go.

10. george says

    October 6, 2018 at 1:53 pm

    Hi Nate,
    Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge here! I’ve learned a lot from your reviews and comments.
    I am about to by a board that can ride switch , send it side ways and take my freestyle out of the slope (doing stuff on back country) . Also, i am intermediate to advanced rider. I am more to Jones Ultra Mountain Twin, am i see the rigth board ?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 7, 2018 at 11:33 am

      Hi George

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah, the Ultra Mountain Twin would work for that for sure, IMO. Also the Jones Explorer and Capita Mercury (UMT if you want something stiffer and the Explorer and Mercury for slightly less stiff options).

      Or you could look at something like the Capita Kazu Kokubo – not as competent at switch (but close) and better in powder – and designed to be freestyle in backcountry.

      Not the only options of course, but all options that would work for that purpose, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

11. Robert says

    November 2, 2018 at 9:57 am

    Hi Nate,

    Great review and great feedback. I think it is getting rare to see reviewer answering people’s question so diligently.
    Currently, I am looking for a board for daily uses, mostly carving and small jump, no park.
    I live on the east coast, so I need something to deal with the ice pack here.
    I am choosing between Yes PYL, Yes Optimistic and Jones Flagship. I am an intermediate rider trying to perfect my carving skills. Which one would you recommend or what are your thoughts?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 2, 2018 at 1:00 pm

      Hi Robert

      Out of those 3, I would choose the PYL. The main reasons are that:

      1. I think it’s the best for jumps out of the 3
      2. It’s the most suited to an intermediate level out of the 3
      3. It’s the best in icy conditions out of the 3

      In saying that, it’s still at the upper end for an intermediate level. But the Flagship and partcularly the Optimistic are less suitable for intermediate. I would say that the PYL is appropriate for a high-end intermediate rider who is bordering on advanced. For the other two I would suggest being already at an advanced level.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

12. Abel says

    November 3, 2018 at 8:41 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Very good review, indeed. I already have a Salomon Super 8 for the powder days and was tempted by the Capita Supernova for carving/charging down on icy groomers. Unfortunately, for 18/19 Capita has not released Supernova and the 17/18 model is a rare find here in Europe. What board would you recommend if I were looking for the characteristics of the Supernova? Thanks,

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 5, 2018 at 11:30 am

      Hi Abel

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah, no Supernova for 18/19.

      I would say that the ATV and Custom X would be close equivalents. Certainly not exactly, but they have similar flex and camber profiles. In terms of sidecut & effective edge, the Custom X is more similar than the ATV, which has a tighter side-cut and less effective edge (compared to overall length). So yeah, I would say one of those 2, would be the closest equivalent at the moment.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

13. Andrej says

    November 22, 2018 at 11:06 pm

    Hi Nate,
    i read a lot of information from this site. Your work is awesome.
    I have little problem in these days.
    I bought Burton Custom X – ver. 2018 for 400 EUR few week ago. I think its perfect price for new one.
    Today (black friday) i see that one shop has good action for Yes Standard and Jones Mountain Twin 2019 both for 400 EUR. I was looking for these two but one of our shop had good price for Burton.
    Im from Europe. My height is 173cm and weight 85kg. Im advanced snowboarder ridiging for 10 years. Usually i ride slope and a little of powder in High Tatras or Alps. Slope is sometimes icy.
    I would like to know your opinion on these 3 snowboard, which one is good for me but i already bought Burton – i always can sell it 🙂
    Thanks for your opinion.
    Good luck

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 23, 2018 at 4:19 pm

      Hi Andrej

      Thanks for your message.

      I would say that the YES Standard would be the best of the 3 in terms of hard/icy conditions. But the Custom X is one of the better Burton boards in hard conditions, IMO. And the Mountain Twin is decent too. If you like the idea of a quite stiff camber dominant board, that is going to be great for hard charging, riding fast and carving and decent in powder, but not really that good for slowing down and playing around with, then I would stick with the Custom X.

      But if you’re more looking for an all-rounder that can do a bit of everything. And that you can slow down and ride casually when you feel for it, then the Standard and Mountain Twin are going to be better options.

      Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

      Reply

14. Maciej says

    December 9, 2018 at 3:04 am

    Hi Nate,

    I’m glad that I found this article. It helped me a lot in choosing the right snowboard.
    I bought Jones Explorer. Now I’m trying to find right bindings that will fit it.
    I’m considering between Union Strata and Union Falcor (again thanks to your other reviews).
    Union Strata has similar flex but maybe according to my inclinations towards carving and freeride I should choose Union Falcor.
    To be honest I will be riding mostly on groomers this season but still will be trying to do some freeriding (which I haven’t been doing before). Still I’ll be trying to carve more aggressively. Maybe I need more responsive bindings or maybe Strata is enough for me.
    I would be extremely grateful for your opinion.

    Neverthless, you’re doing great job – you’re site is a great source of snowboard knowledge for me. Keep on going 🙂

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 9, 2018 at 12:36 pm

      Hi Maciej

      Thanks for your message.

      Both the Strata and the Falcor would work for sure. The Falcor is more responsive and stiffer but still has great board feel. The Strata is still got really good response but just a little more forgiving/surfy. The Falcor certainly the more aggressive option. So, from what you’re describing, both would work but leaning towards the Falcor.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

15. Jeremy Yaple says

    December 11, 2018 at 7:50 pm

    Hi Nate,
    I’m currently riding a 2015 Rossi XV Magtek 163. I’m 43 175lbs 5’9” been riding 18 years, skiing 38. I use Salomon SLX 10s and Flow NX2-GT bindings. My favorite thing to on the mountain is carve and play on groomers. Last year, as I’ve gotten even deeper into the carves, toe and heel drag, and even full boot out, has become an issue. I’ve been looking for something wider than the XV. Don’t get me wrong, for east coast riding, the XV has been great and so can Force good carves with it, but I need something better.
    I’ve ridden the CustomX plenty of times. Great carves but still not very wide. Also sucks switch or butters. In your lineup, I’m leaning towards the PYL. I have to ask: what do you think about Donek boards? I follow Ryan Knapton and he seems to swear by his custom setup.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 12, 2018 at 2:15 pm

      Hi Jeremy

      Thanks for your message.

      From what you’re describing, I think the PYL would work really well for you. If you’re looking for extra width, then the 160W is probably the best bet – and I think that’s a good length for your specs too. You would have to get used to less effective edge, compared to the 163 XV, but otherwise I think that size would suit you well, given that you’re having boot drag issues. And I would be surprised if that wasn’t wide enough to counter those issues.

      The other thing, is to go for a more low profile boot, which would give you more leeway. I haven’t heard of the Salomon SLX, but Salomon boots in general tend to have a longer outersole than the average boot. If you looked at something from Adidas, Vans, Burton or Ride, that would give you a bit more leeway – and might even work with your current board, depending on the what the outersole of the SLX is like. But if you want to keep the boots the same, I imagine the 160W PYL should still be wide enough – and a board that sounds like it would suit your purposes well.

      I haven’t had any experience with Donek boards – but the idea of a custom setup is one I like. To get things just right for your specs. But I can’t comment on the quality of Donek boards, or which one might suit you best.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

16. Jeremy Yaple says

    December 12, 2018 at 4:34 pm

    Thanks so much for the quick reply Nate!
    The SLX are actually pretty compact compared to any other Salomon boot. I also have a pair of DriverXs I use on real ice days(we get plenty on the ice coast:(
    The PYL is a 260 waist width which still provides quite a bit of overhang. I’m pretty entranced by a super wide board now because deep carves are what I’ve been working of for years and bootout and toe and heel drag have always been my nemesis; I’ve never had an issue getting edge to edge super fast on anything. Donek spec’d me at a 157 and a 285 waist width. I’m going to head out to Colorado and demo a board the first week of January and will report back then. I’m also hoping to find a PYL to demo, or something similar, while there.
    Thanks again for all you do. This site is the wiki of Snowboarding!
    Cheers,
    Jeremy

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 14, 2018 at 11:29 am

      Hey Jeremy

      You’re very welcome.

      Yeah would be awesome to hear how you go on the Donek. That sounds really wide, so I’m very interested to hear what you think.

      Reply

17. Stefan says

    January 7, 2019 at 1:06 pm

    Hi Nate,

    writing from germany and very glad I found your page.

    Been on a Bataleon Goliath and Gnu Zoid the last years and looking for a new set-up after selling them.

    I’m 6’4 and 189 lbs and I am mainly riding groomers (90%) and powder (10%). No Park. I am snowboarding since 16 years and would rate me as an high-end intermediate to advanced rider.

    As most of my friends are skiing I am looking for a an aggressive all-mountain board, which I can charge but one that isn’t too exhausting. I have good offers for the Jones Explorer 161w, the Jones Mountain Twin 161w and 164w and the Ultra Mountain Twin 161w and 164w.

    As the 2019 UMT seems to be stiffer (9/10) than the last years models and we often have very slushy snow on spring afternoons I have some doubts, if it might be too stiff and catchy for me.

    Would you say, that the Explorer might be the best or a good option regarding quick edge to edge, stability at high speed and forgivingness?

    Another question: I own a pair of Photon Boas and looking for matching and responding bindings for one of the boards above.

    Have been thinking about the Burton Cartel, Genesis X and Now Drive. Which one would you recommend?

    Thanks in advance and greetings from bavaria!

    Stefan

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 9, 2019 at 1:07 pm

      Hi Stefan

      Thanks for your message.

      Based on what you’re describing, I think the Explorer would be your best option. The Mountain Twin would also work, but I would be leaning towards the Explorer. The Ultra Mountain Twin is quite a stiff board now, and might be more fatiguing than you are wanting it to be. So, I would go for the Explorer.

      Size-wise, I think the 164W would be the best size for you for the Explorer. If you were to go UMT, then the 161W might be the better option as that would negate some of the stiff-ness. And the Mountain Twin would be a weight up between 161W and 164W. But the Explorer is something that is better ridden a little longer (due to less effective edge compared to overall length), so I would prefer to see you on the 164W for that model. The 161W would certainly be doable for you, so it’s still an option.

      The 161W Explorer would be a more forgiving ride and more maneuverable at slower speeds but won’t be as stable at speed or float as well in powder as the 164W.

      In terms of bindings, I would take a look at the following, which would be a good match for the Explorer, IMO.

      >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

      But the Cartel’s would still certainly work for it too (the Genesis X are on that list). I don’t test NOW bindings currently, so I couldn’t say with those, but the flex rating, assuming it’s accurate would be fine.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Stefan says

        January 9, 2019 at 2:15 pm

        Thank you very, very much!

        Unfortunately my local dealer only can get me the Explorer 161w, the 164w is sold out.

        The Mountain Twin would be available in 161w and 164w.

        So, in this case, would you recommend to go with the shorter 161w Explorer or switch to the MT (161w or 164w).

        Thanks in advance!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 11, 2019 at 12:20 pm

          Hi Stefan

          I would go with the Mountain Twin in the 161W or 164W vs the Explorer in the 161W for you.

          Between the 161W Mountain Twin and the 164W Mountain Twin, it’s a tight call, but I would be leaning towards 161W, but both would work. The main reason I would be leaning towards 161W is that you’re on groomers 90% of the time. If you were in powder/backcountry more often, then the 164W would become more appealing.

          Reply

          • Stefan says

            January 15, 2019 at 3:17 pm

            Thank you so much!

            One last question:

            Yesterday I went to the shop to order the MT 161w and got told, that my local dealer got some new Jones Flagships in several lengths.

            Would this be a better option than the Mountain Twin, as it should be less stiff than last years Flagships and I won’t be in the park?

            Thanks!

          • Nate says

            January 16, 2019 at 1:17 pm

            Hi Stefan

            The Flagship is still quite a stiff board – as stiff as previous years by my feel (and according to Jones’ specs). They’ve made the core a little lighter but as far as I know it’s not any softer. When they changed factories (which I think was between 2016 and 2017) it became a little more forgiving. But the 2019 model vs 2018 model hasn’t softened, in my experience. It’s very similar in terms of stiffness to the Ultra Mountain Twin.

            So, apart from that stiffness, it would certainly be suitable for you, but since it sounds like you don’t want something too stiff, then that would be the one thing.

18. Todd says

    January 8, 2019 at 3:28 pm

    Nate

    Need a bit of advice on a new board. I am 51 years young and currently riding my trusty Arbor 163w Round House, full chamber , width waist is 262, machine. I groom and powder ride when I can, around 10 to 15x time a year. No pipe, moguls, or parks. I am an advanced rider, 6 ft, 205lb with size 12 burtons. I have been looking at and arbor, custom wide, or lib Tec trs hp or hot knife.

    Your thoughts and insights would be very helpful

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 10, 2019 at 10:40 am

      Hi Todd

      Thanks for your message.

      If you’re looking to stay full camber and aggressive, then the Brian Iguchi Camber or Coda Camber would be good Arbor options.

      The Hot Knife is basically also all camber (some very subtle rocker between the feet). It’s softer flexing than something like the Arbor boards mentioned above. The TRS has more rocker in the profile, so a looser, more playful feel. The Hot Knife isn’t great in powder, IMO, but neither are the Coda Camber or TRS, compared to other boards. The Iguchi Camber a little better but still not great – but if you don’t see powder that much, should be fine.

      Powder-wise

      Iguchi – 3/5
      TRS – 2.5/5
      Coda Camber – 2/5
      Hot Knife – 2/5

      Size-wise, sticking with something around that 161 – 163 range is a good idea, IMO. But

      For some other options, check out:

      >> My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards

      Or if you were wanting to check out something a little more forgiving/playful, check out:

      >>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards

      Hope this helps

      Reply

19. Ray says

    January 25, 2019 at 8:01 am

    Hi Nate,

    I’m struggling a bit choosing the right snowboard as I usually spend half of the time on manmade snow (hard / icy / groomers or chopped groomers), and half of the time on backcountry / powder as in Niseko. No Park but sometime tube.

    I read lots of your reviews, which are super helpful! It seems to me Yes PYL and Burton Flight Attendant are better than Burton Custom X / Yes Standard in such conditions. But I’m open to others as well. Which is your top pick? And for your top pick, what length should I choose? (My height 5’8, weight 150lbs, shoe size 9.5)

    Your thoughts and insights would be very helpful!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 25, 2019 at 11:46 am

      Hi Ray

      Thanks for your message.

      Given that need something that’s good in icy conditions and good in powder, I would go for the PYL. The Standard would also work, but the PYL is better in powder. The Flight Attendant is better in powder, but not as good in hard/icy conditions (not bad, but not as good as Standard/PYL, IMO).

      For the PYL, the 156 would be the best size for you, IMO. And a really good size for you for that board, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

20. Jason says

    February 4, 2019 at 9:38 am

    Hey, Nate. Thanks for all this awesome feedback. I’m an old fat guy now but been a snowboarder for over 20 years. I wouldnt call myself and expert by any means but i’d feel comfortable saying i’m a hardcore veteran at being intermediate. Live in Midwest which means i ride 90% of my season on groomers/choppy groomers and i stay away from jumps and the park. I do one trip a year to Salt Lake. I’m currently riding a Jones Explorer with the burton step ons and love it. My question to you. Is it a benefit to have multiple boards? For someone like me that rides midwest and doesn’t have a lot of condition variance other than fresh groomed and chop is there any benefit other than having one board to bomb and another to carve? And maybe just wanting another toy? lol

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 5, 2019 at 10:27 am

      Hi Jason

      Thanks for your message.

      Hardcore veteran at being intermediate

      – love it!

      Never any harm in having more boards! But seriously, probably not that necessary if you’re not using them for hugely different purposes. In saying that, there’s nothing stopping you from getting another board, if you just want another toy, of course. And to get a different feeling board, but yeah, not a huge amount of benefit from it, IMO.

      Reply

21. GIANNI says

    February 8, 2019 at 1:13 pm

    Hi Nate, I’m a medium level rider who likes carving very much. I was looking for a very fast and extreme board to improve my carving technique, when I came across your review. I liked so much your description of the Slash Atv that I decided to buy it. I’ve tried it on the Etna volcano in Sicily, and I’m really impressed about the lack of speed limits of this board, thanks to its stiffness. It’s really a beast. It knows only one speed: the maximum. And what about carving? It really slash the snow. I’m very happy of it. Thank you very much for your precious advices.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 9, 2019 at 1:53 pm

      Hi Gianni

      Thanks for your message.

      You’re very welcome and glad I could help you find your board – and awesome that you’re digging the ATV! A fun board for sure.

      Reply

22. Jon says

    March 14, 2019 at 3:33 pm

    Hi Nate

    Really informative site. Like most people am contacting you as am in a bit of a purchasing dilemma!

    I am a good intermediate to advanced rider, I used to ride a Burton Custom with Cartel bindings (2006 model), but have been renting recently after wearing it out.

    I was planning on just buying another Custom and Cartels, but then started reading some reviews which seem to imply that the Custom has fallen behind some of the competition a bit recently.

    From your categories, my priorities are Carving,Speed,Powder and uneven terrain (ski friends keep dragging me into moguls!). I don’t really do park and do some occasional jumps off terrain and a little bit of switch which I want to improve.

    I am 6’2 and 75kgs (probably 80 with gear on). I am wearing Flow Talon boots (size US 11).

    Reading from your site, sounds like my options still are
    1. A Burton Custom
    2. Yes Standard (though seems harder to source in the UK)
    3. Jones Mountain Twin
    4. Jones Explorer.

    What do you think would be best for me?

    I really like the cartel bindings from previously, so almost certainly would buy the reflex version of those, would you recommend large?

    Many thanks

    Jon

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 15, 2019 at 9:53 am

      Hi Jon

      Thanks for your message.

      I think those are really good options based on what you’re describing. You could look at something a little more freeride if you wanted, but since you want to improve on your switch I think going all-mountain is a good call.

      Personally I don’t find the Custom (or anything that’s all camber really) that good in powder. It’s doable, but if you’re in powder a lot, then you might appreciate something like the Standard, Mountain Twin or Explorer vs the Custom. But if you’re not in powder that much, or if you’re happy with how the Custom goes in powder, then otherwise, the Custom still certainly an option.

      The Standard is pretty hard to source anyway at the moment. It’s a board that tends to sell out before the end of the season.

      Size-wise, I would say the following:

      – Custom: 158 or 158W
      – Mountain Twin: 157 or 158W
      – Explorer: 159 or 161W (this is a board that is best ridden a bit longer)
      – Standard: 156 (this is a board that is best ridden a bit shorter – depending on boot size – but with 11s, at your specs, the 156 would be the best bet)

      But….

      What you’re used to also comes into the sizes as well. If you’re used to something considerably longer or shorter, then take that into account as well.

      As for width, with 11s you’re kind of on the cuff. If you ride with +15/-15 angles or similar, then you might be able to get on the regular width options. Also, if you’re used to riding regular width and you’ve never encountered any issues, then that’s something else to take into account.

      So, if you can let me know the size of your old Custom – and what you’ve been renting, that would be helpful and maybe we need to adjust those sizes.

      For Cartels, with Flow 11s, I would go for Large.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply