Hello and welcome to my Never Summer Proto Slinger review.
In this review, I will take a look at the Proto Slinger as a freestyle snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Proto Slinger a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other freestyle snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Never Summer Proto Slinger
Price: $619
Style: Freestyle
Flex Rating: Medium-Soft (4/10)
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium-Soft (3.5/10)
Rating Score: 91.3/100
Compared to other Men’s Freestyle Boards
Out of the 36 men’s freestyle snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Proto Slinger’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Proto Slinger’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | Freestyle |
Price: | $619 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | Hybrid Rocker Never Summer's "Shock Wave Rocker Camber" |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Centered |
Base: | Durasurf Sintered 4501 |
Weight: | Feels Normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
149 | 247 | n/a | n/a |
153 | 250 | n/a | n/a |
156 | 253 | n/a | n/a |
154X | 258 | n/a | n/a |
157X | 262 | n/a | n/a |
* The 2024 model drops the 160X. 2023 model had the same sizes as 2022. The 2022 model dropped the 146, 151 & 159 sizes that the 2021 model had.
Who is the Proto Slinger Suited To?
The Proto Slinger is a great option for those looking for a freestyle oriented deck to hit the park on, but that can also do pretty well on the rest of the mountain, particularly if you're using the mountain like a park. It's soft and buttery but also has a good dose of camber, which helps with carving.
Not great for powder and not quite for a beginner, just because of all that camber, but low intermediate and up should be good on this board.
The Proto Slinger in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Proto Slinger is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Never Summer Proto Slinger 2021, 156cm (253mm waist width)
Date: February 29, 2020
Conditions: Cloudy with some blue sky and sun at times. Perfect visibility.
Quite cold at -4°C (24.8°F) and was supposed to be -11°C (12.2°F) with wind chill, but didn't feel as cold as that.
20cm (8") of fresh snow overnight, so plenty of fresh to test in. Conditions were awesome on and off groomer.
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 545mm (21.5″)
Stance Setback: Centered
Width at Inserts: 263mm (10.35")
Rider Height: 6'0"
Rider Weight: 175lbs
Rider Boot Size: US10 Salomon Lo-Fi
Bindings Used: Burton Malavita M
Weight: 2800grams (6lbs 3oz)
Weight per cm: 17.95 grams/cm
Average Weight per cm: 18.36 grams/cm*
*based on a small sample size of around 80 models that I’ve weighed in 2019, 2020 & 2021 models. The Proto Slinger a little lighter than average. Feels about normal on snow.
Note: The Proto Slinger replaces the Funslinger. The Proto Slinger is quite similar to the old Funslinger. The only real change is the new "Shock Wave Rocker Camber" camber profile, which adds more camber. Otherwise it's very similar to the old Funslinger.
Powder
Had a bit to test in. Though not super deep, it was moderate. Any board is fun in powder, IMO, and the Proto Slinger is no exception. But I could feel from the brief time I had it in there that if it was deeper and you were in it for a longer period of time, then keeping the nose floating would become quite a back leg burning effort. But in 20cm (8") for brief amounts of time, was fine.
It's true twin and centered and whilst it has a little rocker in the profile, it's not a whole lot, so not really designed for powder.
Carving & Turning
Carving: Fun board for short sharp carves. Certainly not worlds better than the old Funslinger for carving, but just that little bit more carvy, with that extra camber. Not as suited to big, long carves, but fun for short sharp ones.
Turning: General turning is really fun on this board. It feels snappy and it's easy to initiate turns on.
Maneuverability at Slow Speeds: Really easy to maneuver at slow speeds. Quick and easy edge to edge transition, without having to put much effort in.
Skidded Turns: Given all that camber, it's surprisingly forgiving of skidded turns. Not like a beginner board with lots of rocker, but still pretty forgiving of them.
Speed
Given it's flex, being a centered twin and all that, it's never going to be a bomber, but it can handle a fair bit of speed well enough.
Uneven Terrain
Nice and maneuverable for slow speed weaving through bumps and going over top of bumps is good. Not a crud crusher - you get bounced around a bit in it, but not terrible either.
Jumps
So much fun for jumps! Great pop and so easy to access, and just everything about this board for jumps. The only reason I didn't give it 5/5 is that it's not quite as suited to really large jumps, in terms of speed of approach you need and stability of landing, but for small to medium jumps and side hits, it would be hard to think of a board I preferred more than this one.
Pop: Great pop and so easy to access. Effortless and snappy pop.
Approach: It's not an ultra stable feel for larger jumps, but it's stable enough for those approaches to most size jumps and has great maneuverability for trickier approaches.
Landing: A great balance of solid and forgiving.
Side-hits: Perfection. So maneuverable for trickier approaches and great pop that's super easy to access. Landing and setting up switch is awesome too.
Small jumps/Big Jumps: Best suited to small to medium jumps, IMO, but can handle larger jumps too.
Switch
As good as it gets, IMO.
Spins
Pretty much perfect for spins. The only reason, again, that this didn't get 5/5, is that it's not as suited to large tricks. But for anything else - you know for those of use mere mortals that typically don't send it massive - it's amazing. Easy to get the spin around, great for setting up and landing switch and great/effortless pop.
Jibbing
Great for jibs. Felt confident hitting them. The setup is great, the pop on and off great and felt good on the jib too.
Butters
Super buttery. I wondered if it would become less butterable with the new "Shock Wave" camber profile, but it's still super easy and fun to butter with.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
JIBBING | 4.0 | 16/20 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
BUTTERING | 5.0 | 10/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 3/5 |
CARVING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.3/100 |
Like buttering, jumps, sidehits, jibs, treating the mountain like a park, when not in the park - and just like a springy, snappy, playful yet explosive ride, in general? Then the Proto Slinger is a board you should get excited about. One of those boards that I just felt buzzed from after unstrapping. This one might have to be added to the quiver this year!
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the Proto Slinger, or if you are ready to buy, or if you just want to research prices and availability, check out the links below.
If you want to check out some other freestyle snowboard options, or if you want to compare how the Proto Slinger compares to other freestyle snowboards, then check out the next link.
Hey Nate. I’m 5’7” and about 65-66kg and wondering about the right size for the 24 proto slinger. Would you recommend 149 or 153? Have one other board, Salomon Sight 151.
Thanks for your help!
Hi Aaron
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, I would put your “typical all-mountain length” at around 153cm. So the 153 is definitely a possibility if this is something you want as your only board – assuming that your boot size is a good fit (i.e. if it was a bit wide for your boots, then sizing down would make sense).
But if you were going to use the Proto Slinger predominantly for freestyle riding, then I would go 149, I think it’s the better freestyle size for you.
If you could let me know your boot size as well, to confirm.
Hope this helps
I’m a size 9! There’s a chance I’ll keep the Salomon around for a few more seasons.
Hey Aaron
Yeah, I would be leaning 149 then, if it’s going to be your predominantly freestyle board, then I think that’s going to be the better size. The 153 isn’t like huge for you or anything like that, but I would be leaning 149 in this case, for this particular board.
Hey Nate,
I have been wanting to try this board for a while.
Not sure if I should get the 157x or 160w.
I have bigger boards for bombing and carving and want to use this for side hits and small jumps. Not a rail guy at all.
I’m 5’11,240lbs with size 11 boots.
I own a 156w Twinpig but felt it was too big so hesitant to just grab the 160x blindly.
What do u think?
Thanks!!!
Hey Randall
Thanks for your message.
Whilst I think the 157X is a big size down for you, I think it will work, given that you’ve already got other boards and this is going to be more specialized to side hits and small jumps. The 157X is going to feel noticeably smaller than the Twinpig 156W, IMO, as it’s not nearly as wide as that and softer flexing, in my experience. So, the 157X will feel small and soft flexing for you, IMO, but it sounds like that’s what you’re looking for in this board, so I would be leaning 157X over 160X, if it was me. The 160X wouldn’t be the wrong size for you, by any means, but given what you’re looking to use it for, I’d err smaller, if it was me.
Hope this helps
It does!
Thanks so much Nate!
I was thinking the same but I really needed to hear it from someone who has actually ridden the board!
Regards,
Randall
You’re very welcome Randall. Thanks for visiting
Hello Nate
I am 6feet, 200lbs, size 9 vans aura OG boot. What size should I buy for park / all mluntain (60/40).
Thank you very much.
Hi Eric
Thanks for your message.
If they still had it I would go 159 for your specs and how you’re wanting to use it. If you can find a 2022 (or earlier) model in the 159, that’s what I’d go with. Otherwise, I think the 157X is probably the next best, though preferably I wouldn’t go wide with your boot size. The 156 would be doable, but would be something I would recommend more if it was purely going to be your park/freestyle board. If you don’t really ride fast at all the 156 would be doable. But if you need some stability at speed, you’ll likely find it a little shaky in that size, when you get up to moderately fast speeds.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
My 17 year old son is currently riding a Salomon 450 159 (yeah, that old because it used to be mine) and I think it’s time I finally upgraded him. He demoed a 2017 Proto Funslinger in Vail a couple of seasons ago and really liked it. Do you think a 2023 Proto Slinger 157W with Union Stratas would be a good set-up for him (and that he can grow into some).
He’s getting more into Freestyle riding (so obviously that 800lb super stiff Salomon ain’t going to work) but this would also be his daily rider so would need to be decent all mountain and all conditions. He’s intermediate/advanced and has done black diamond runs at big resorts but is not a bomber or fly down the mountain. He’s 5’11.5″ tall, but only 145lb (ah, to be young and thin again), size 11 boots. I know the Proto Synthesis is an option with Union Stratas but would the Slinger 157W? Again, trying to get something that will be ok as he grows (though he won’t get much taller just heavier as we all do).
Thanks.
Hey EON
Thanks for your message.
Given that he’s not bombing, I think the Proto Slinger would be fine for all-mountain stuff – and really good for his freestyle leanings. So I think it’s a good option – and at his weight, he’s not going to find it as soft as I did, particularly if he goes 157W. I found the 156 around a 3.5/10 flex but he’s likely to find the 157W more like 5/10 at a guess.
In terms of sizing, it is a little on the big side for him, IMO, but I definitely get wanting him to be able to grow into it. I would put his “standard all-mountain length” currently at around 155. With a more freestyle style and this kind of board, ideally for right now, I’d put him on a 153, if there was a wide version. So I think with the 157W it’s going to be better for all-mountain and as he grows into it, it will suit more for freestyle. He’ll still be able to ride it freestyle, don’t get me wrong, and given he’s used to a stiff 159, then he’s likely to find it noticeably easier to ride freestyle, even to start with. Given the sizing, I would look at the Slinger over the Synthesis.
Hope this helps
Hi nate,
Definitely adding this board to my quiver! I’ve been looking for a softer board since I love doing flat/ground tricks and for hitting the park. I’m just not sure what size i should get. I’m 5’6/167cm, 173lbs/78kg. , boot size is 9. Thanks in advance!
Hi Joseph
Thanks for your message.
I would go 153 for what you’re describing. If it was the only board in your quiver and you wanted to still be able to ride it faster at times, then I might be leaning 156, but as part of your quiver for the things you want to do, I’d go 153 for sure.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
This website is amazing. Such a great resource for snowboard gear. Keep up the great work!
I’m hoping to add the Protoslinger to my quiver. I would use this primarily as an all mountain freestyle board. I’m an intermediate rider and would like to use this for side hits, butters, and generally something fun to ride without being too aggressive.
I’m wondering what size you would recommend (like most people in the comment section!). I’m 6’0, 165 lbs, size 11 boots, and ride 15/-15. I realize that this board isn’t built for deep carves but I still worry about boot drag. As a result I’m thinking either the 154X versus the 157X. Any thoughts?
Also, I really like Flux bindings. Would you pair this board with the Flux DS or TW? I feel like everything else in the Flux lineup is either too soft or too stiff.
Thanks in advance!
Trev
Hi Trev
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, even without doing big carves on it, I would go a wide size for this with 11s. Unless you thought you were never really going to get on edge at all – but this board can carve decently for how soft it is, so you want that option – and the 154X and 157X are actually really good width for 11s, IMO – not too wide at all, so I think your best bet is to go with the wides.
In your case I would be erring towards the 154X. If this was going to be your one and only board and you were wanting to sometimes ride it fast, then I’d be leaning more towards the 157X. But as part of a quiver, as your playful ride, I think the 154X would work well. That doesn’t make the 157X a wrong choice, but I’d be erring shorter.
For bindings, I agree that the TW and DS are your best bets. The TW is a more pure flex match to the Slinger, but the DS certainly aren’t too stiff for it or anything. If you wanted to really err even more playful, then TW. If you wanted to get a bit more power/drive, then the DS.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Thanks so much for your thoughtful reply. Its super helpful. You’re absolutely right; I think a wide NS board is best and given that I’m adding it to my quiver, the 154X is a great choice. I have other longer more aggressive rides if I want something to go faster and/or carve with. Hopefully there’s no boot drag with the 154X but I think I should be fine.
I think I’ll probably pair the board with the TW because I am setting this up as a more fun and playful ride. I guess the only other potential option is the Flux EM. It’s rated as a 2.5/5 stiffness compared to the TW which is 2/5. The high back looks a bit undersized compared to the TW but I would imagine they’re otherwise pretty similar. Your review on the 2022 Flux lineup was super helpful but I don’t think you had a chance to ride the EMs. Anyways, I think the TWs might be the way to go regardless.
Thanks again!!! Great advice as always!!
All the best,
Trev
Hi Trev
Yeah, I haven’t ridden the EMs, but I would be leaning TW – from what I know of the EMs, the TW is a better binding. The TW is essentially the Flux DSL renamed.
Awesome! Board and bindings have been ordered and I’m looking forward to trying them out.
Thanks for all of your help!!
Trev
You’re very welcome Trev. If you think of it at the time let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get them out on snow. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
first of all i want to say, it is so great what you are doing here. Such a good help for us all.
I am from germany and i hope my englisch is good enough . I try my very best :-)))
I am about 6´16 (188cm) and 187lbs (85Kg).
I have new Adidas Response Boots with a overall length 31,8 cm.
Actually i ride the NS Proto Type 2 in 159x.
I am happy with this board, but i wish it would be a little more softer and flexible .
So i am gonna look for the Proto Slinger and your review sounds very good for this.
I want to use it as playfull fun allmountainboard for butters, groundtricks, sidehits, small/medium jumps, spinns and 180´s/360´s. Little carving and speed passages sometimes.
Do you think the size 157x could be the right for me. Or is it too small ? Is the waist ok for my boots ?
And what Binding would you recommend me for this ?
Kind regards from Cologne Germany 🙂
Julian
Hi Julian
Thanks for your message. And your English is all good!
Given what you want to use it for, I think the 157X works. I would put you closer to 161/162 as your “standard all-mountain” size, but given what you’ll be using it for, sizing down makes sense. And this board is very good for what you want to use it for as well, so I think it’s a good choice.
Width-wise, the 157X should work well. I don’t think you’ll have any boot drag issues and it’s not too wide or anything. Just right, IMO.
I would go with something in the 4/10 to 5/10 flex range, in terms of bindings on the Proto Slinger. Something from the following:
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
Hope this helps
This is trully dumb how good this board actually is, crazy good feel on your foots, very playfull, great while switching, she is locking down every tricks on rails.
I’am just a bit sad After only three days the top sheet has already a few scars so i’ll see how it goes in the long run but overall i’am very happy with this board.
Thanks for your reviews.
Hi Manu
It’s a sick board right! Sorry to hear about your top sheet issues. Hope they don’t get any worse. I own the Proto Slinger, though it’s not my main board – but have done about 9-10 days on it now and top sheet is holding up pretty well. There is one blemish on it though.
Hey Nate, hoping to get your take on getting the proto slinger board as a mountain play board to butter, ride switch, side hits, etc. Don’t spend much time in the park but wanting something bit softer to dabble with. I ride the westbound (157) most days, probably would ride the slinger 30-40% of time. Thoughts if this would be the right board? Also thoughts on right size? I’m 5’8 170, 9.5 boot..considering the 153.
Hi Mychal
Thanks for your message.
I think the Proto Slinger would be a good compliment to the westbound for the things you’re describing. So long as you’re not looking to really bomb on it (I assume you’d use your westbound for bombing days), I think it will work well.
Size-wise, I think sizing down to the 153 is a good idea, to give you that extra playfulness and even more difference to your westbound. The 156 would certainly work as well, though.
Hope this helps with your decision
Excellent! Yah I am ok with taking a small hit on the edge hold at speed. The board just sounds like so much fun that I am gonna have to pull the trigger. Really appreciate your thoughts here Nate!
You’re very welcome Mychal. Hope it treats you well. Happy riding!
Hey Nate, I just recently picked up a proto slinger with some contact pros. I’m having some foot pain in my outer feet and I’m thinking it’s due to the not having center footbeds. What are some options you think would match well if I decide to ditch the contact pros?
Thanks James
Hi James
Thanks for your message.
If you wanted to go a little stiffer but still stick with Union, I’d look at the Strata. The Strata has a canted footbed. It’s the stiffest binding I’d put on the Slinger personally, but still would work, if you were OK with something around 6/10 flex. The Burton Malavita is another option, if you were OK with going stiffer. I ride my Slinger with Malavitas and I find they work really well – 5.5/10 flex. If you wanted to stick with a softer flex, then I’d look at the Hemlock (4/10 flex). I believe they have canted footbeds, though couldn’t find anywhere to confirm it. But my notes note canting. They also have the adjustable heel cup – so if that’s something you didn’t want to lose, if you were to go away from Union, that’s a good alternative. Finally, if you want something around that 4/10 flex, the K2 Line Up has canting in the footbed, so they should be a good alternative, if you’re looking for canting.
Hope this helps
Hello Nate !
I need help in choosing a board
I am 5’11 in and 163-165 lbs. Shoes size 10 US ride lasso.
I currently only ride all mountain style but would like to learn freestyle and am looking for the right board for me . I chose the proto slinger and now the question is which size is right for me 153 or 156 . I currently ride a Yes basic 155 with an effective edge of 117.5. I also had a proto type two 157 but sold it because it was too long for me. Bindings flux tt .
Thanks Nate !
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
Given that you found the 157 Proto Type Two (PT2) too long and that you want to use this board to focus on freestyle stuff, then I’d say go 153. If you were using it mostly all-mountain I’d say 156. But given how you felt about the 157 PT2 and given that you want to learn freestyle, I would go 153.
Flux TT are potentially a little stiff for the Proto Slinger – and if you’re learning freestyle, but give them a go. Ideally something a little softer to match the Proto Slinger and the Style you’re looking to learn.
Hope this helps
Awesome reviews. You helped me buy my last board and had a question on this one. I have a Salomon Assassin Pro 158W, I’m 6’1” tall, 180 lbs, and 11.5 boot. I use the Assassin Pro for aggressive all mountain with some park but want a more park dedicated board and I think this is it. What are your thoughts on 154W vs 157W for me? I’m leaning towards the 154W but worried about boots. Advanced rider looking to improve on jumps/rails in the park.
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
I think this will be a great compliment to the Assassin Pro as your dedicated park board. Given that it’s going to be your dedicated park board I would also be leaning 154W. In terms of the width, you’d be looking at around 268mm at the inserts. This is on the narrower side for 11.5s, but it’s not undoable, depending on a couple of things.
Firstly, if you’re riding with +15/-15 angles or similar, which is recommended on an asym board anyway. Then that will help you to go narrower, versus a straighter back binding angle.
Secondly, if you have low profile boots, that helps too.
And finally, if you’re going to be solely using this for riding the park and aren’t going to be doing any seriously deep/high speed carves on it, then I reckon it should be wide enough, assuming one of the first two things are in your favor.
Hope this helps
Very helpful. Gonna go with the 154W and see how it fits. You’re the man. Thanks Nate.
You’re very welcome Chris. Hope it works well for you. If you think of it at the time let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow. Happy riding!
Hey Nate,
I’m looking for a softer and more playful board for freestyle and the park and I’m eyeing both this Never Summer Proto Slinger and the Burton Kilroy Twin – what are your thoughts comparing between the two? Also, I’m looking at the 145 for the Burton while Never Summer suggested a 153 for my dimensions (foot size 7, weight 130 lbs, height 5’7 – I was personally leaning towards the 149), any thoughts on the sizing as well?
Thanks!
Hi Derek
Thanks for your message.
Firstly in terms of sizing: A bit crazy that they recommended the 153 for you for this board, IMO. I wouldn’t even go that long for an all-mountain board for your specs. Maybe for a dedicated big mountain/powder board. But for the Proto Slinger, as your freestyle/park deck, I would say 146, if they still made that size (but unfortunately, they dropped it for the 2022 model). If you can find a 2021 146 (which might be tricky), that would be ideal, IMO, but failing that the 149 is your best bet for sure.
For the Kilroy Twin, I would also be looking at the 145 for you. I think an all-mountain size around 150 is a good bit (assuming advanced and assuming a good width for your boots) but as your dedicated freestyle/park deck, I like the 145 for you.
Between the Kilroy Twin and Proto Slinger (assuming a size for size comparison), I would say:
– Slinger easier to butter, but Kilroy Twin not hard or anything
– Both equally good for jumps and spins, IMO – both nice and poppy – and that pop is nice and easy to access
– If I had to make a call I’d say Slinger just over the Kilroy Twin for jibbing, but not heaps in it
Taking sizing options into account, I would be leaning Kilroy Twin, in this case.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks a lot for the input! I was definitely leaning towards the Slinger but agree that given the sizing options, the Kilroy in 145 might be better for me. Hopefully the Kilroy isn’t that much harder to press and butter on because I was always envious of people who press like their boards were made of cardboard – I’ve been blaming the board but maybe it’s just my weak legs haha. Guess I could save $100 to go towards a multi-board bag!
Thanks for the detailed response! I was definitely leaning towards the Proto Slinger on paper but, like you said, taking into account the sizes available I might have to go with the Kilroy. I went down your list and found that the Slash Happy and Niche Wraith sound like they fit my bill and they also have the size I’m looking for, any additional comparison comments? I’d also add that I’d value ease of buttering because I’ve always been envious of people who look like they’re riding on cardboard and I’ve been blaming my weak presses on my board (but maybe it’s my weak legs haha). Sorry for asking so much – really sounds like I can’t go wrong with any of those boards!
Also
Hi Derek
Yeah, I’d agree that any of these boards in the right size, you should be good with. But yeah, if you want that super buttery feel, then something like the Happy Place (146) or Niche Wraith (145) should be a little easier to butter than the Kilroy Twin. Size comes into buttering too. Shorter boards tend to be easier to butter. So going 149 in the Slinger, even though more buttery all round, that longer size will decrease that butterability a little bit. Hard to say for sure, but might come more even buttering-wise.
Hey, Enjoyed both your reviews on the Proto synthesis and Proto slinger. I have a proto synthesis and really do like it but wishing it was just a bit softer. I am also thinking maybe the issue is the size is a bit too big…but it does feel pretty ok.
I am 5’ 9”, 165, size 11.5 burton ruler boots (have smaller footprint)
Single board… all mountain’ish, like to butter, park some, powder on occasions.. but mostly groomed runs.
The proto synthesis is 158 regular… haven’t had any toe drag issues. Would it be worth going to a 154x in the Proto synthesis?
If I was to go with a proto slinger.. would it make sense to do a 157x since the effective edge is shorter than Proto synthesis?
Trying to weigh my loss in carving control vs. added flex that I wan
Thanks for your feedback. Spending WAY too much time mulling this over…
Hi Nathan
Thanks for your message.
Yeah I would say 158 is just a little big (which will also make the flex feel stiffer). I think for an all-mountain board, around 157 would be a good bet, assuming a relatively advanced level. So 158 in that sense isn’t that far off and probably good for other boards. But for this board, I would err a little shorter (with the amount of effective edge versus overall length – as you mentioned). So I think 155 or 154X would be the better size for you for this board. With your boot size, I probably wouldn’t go 155. Since you haven’t had any drag issues on the 158, it’s doable, given it’s very close in width to the 158, but I would be leaning 154X if you were to stick with the Synthesis. The 154X would also feel softer to you, than the 158, so you would gain some more flex there just by resizing.
The Proto Slinger is a good bit softer (I felt it at 3.5/10 and the Synthesis at 5.5/10) – so you would definitely be getting that softer deal. The Slinger is still a good carver at slower speeds, it’s just when you open it out for higher speed carves is when you notice the biggest drop in performance versus the Synthesis. But it is, IMO, a good bit better for butters and park (particularly if you’re not sending it on anything massive).
Size-wise for the Proto Slinger, I would typically say go 154X, if you were using it predominantly as a freestyle deck, but since you would be using it as your do-it-all board, I think 157X works. It would likely feel a little stiffer than the 3.5/10 that I felt it at, at that size with your weight, but still softer than the 154X Proto Synthesis will. And like you say, going 157X you won’t be dropping as much effective edge – but you would drop some, which sounds like a good thing, if you’re finding the 158 Synthesis too big.
Hope that all makes sense, and helps with your decision
Hi Nate, I really like the review and bought this board. I am looking for the binding, any recommendations? My board size is 146, my boot is Burton Ruler BOA 7.5 . I might buy a new boot with size 8.0. I am going to take this board as an all-mountain board, maybe 30%-40% on the park. Thank you
Hi Jack
Thanks for your message.
First binding that comes to mind for this board is the Union Contact Pro. I think that would be a really good match. If you wanted to go a little stiffer in your binding, then the Burton Malavita or Flux DS (or DSW) would also match really well, IMO. You could also check out the following, if you wanted more options:
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi
Wonder if I can ask for your opinion.
I am trying to find a board that is an upgrade for my 152 k2 www.
I also have a 156 k2 turbo dream.
This board sounds ideal for what I want which is a fun playful board that I can use as a fun all mountain board with mostly butters, switch and side hits. The www starts to struggle when things get fast or hard packed…
And I thought I could keep the turbo dream for powder days etc.
Wonder how you would compare this against the peacemaker as it seems to be cheaper in the UK.
And what sizing would be best. I like the size of the 152 www for quick turning.
I’m 5ft 8 and about 70kg
Size 10UK boots.
Many thanks for such a great resource.
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
Between this and the Peacemaker, I would say that the Peacemaker feels a little softer flexing overall. It’s super soft in the middle of the board and the tip and tail stiffen up a bit on it. But overall, I’d say a 3/10 flex. So only very subtly softer, but by a little bit.
Prefer the Proto Slinger overall for jumps and sidehits. Both are very good for that, so you wouldn’t be making a bad call on either in that sense, but the Proto Slinger just has a bit more pop and the pop is just as easy to extract (very little effort to load it up). Both are really buttery. If I had to choose the easiest to butter, it’s probably the Peacemaker, but there’s really nothing in it. For switch, I’m partial to asym boards for riding switch and I would side with the Proto Slinger there, but again, both are very good for riding switch, so there’s very little in it.
The Peacemaker a little better for powder, but if you were keeping the Turbo Dream for powder days, then that wouldn’t be a factor.
For carving, I preferred the Proto Slinger. There’s a bit more camber in there and that just gives it a better carve. Both are really good in hard pack conditions, in my experience.
Not sure if you hit rails/boxes, but both are pretty similar for that too.
Size-wise, I’d typically say to go wide for UK10s, but if you’ve never had any issues with boot drag on the 152 WWW or 156 Turbo Dream, and if you don’t tend to do aggressive carves, then you’re probably OK sticking regular width.
Given your specs, how you describe your riding style, and that you already have the 156 Turbo Dream for powder days, I would be leaning 151, but 153 would work too.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for the detailed reply that was really helpful and made me think that the peacekeeper wasn’t too far behind the proto slinger based on how I ride.
I managed to find a 40% discount off the 2020 peacekeeper so have gone with that, as the better price, combined with the much more appealing graphics were the deciding factors.
Sadly won’t get to ride it until next season though, but look forward to taking it out of storage to look at it on a regular basis until then! 😀
You’re very welcome David and glad it helped in making your decision. Bummer that you won’t be able to take it out until next season, but when the time comes, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!
Hey Nate, I love the site. Thank you. I am picking up on this thread since my question was related.
I am trying to decide between the Never Summer Protoslinger and Peacemaker.
As far as i can tell the main differences are that the Protoslinger as more camber, is slightly less flexible and is an asymmetric twin. From your review, it sounds like the extra camber and slight less flex make it stronger than the Peacemaker on carves and speed – and give it an overall more advanced ride (relative to the peacemaker). I also noted that you said the peacemaker could get wobbly at greater speeds (but not sure how much this will impact me per below). Do I have this right?
About me:
I am very solid intermediate – and am spending time on butters, small jumps, riding switch – etc – basically some intermediate level stuff. I ride the whole mountain and like to carve – but I don’t care that much about going super fast – and don’t spend much time on steeper blacks.
I get out about 10 days a year (wish it was 50!). This will be the first board I purchase.
Also I am 5’3” male about 143lbs. So think 149CM is right – but pls confirm.
What I want: Looking to continue to have fun and improve on riding the mountain like a park (but probably not spend that much time in the park itself) – at the stronger intermediate level.
All else held equal – i probably bias toward the easier ride (the peacemaker) and greater flex – but my radar was up a bit about your comments about being wobbly (But really not sure I would notice this – with my rider profile). But your review on the Protoslinger is really great —- but not sure if I the extra camber would feel like too much.
Thanks a ton for your thoughts/recommendation.
Thx..aaron
Hi Aaron
Thanks for your message.
I think you’ve described the differences there well. The only other thing I would add is that the Peacemaker is better in powder – for 2 reasons a. it has a little more rocker and b. it has “blower stance” inserts which allow you to set back further on powder days.
As a solid intermediate rider and what you’re describing, I would be leaning Proto Slinger. Neither are bombers at speed, but the Proto Slinger is a little better and a little better for carves – and just gives you a bit more in terms of pop etc. And whilst I would agree that it’s slightly more advanced compared to the Peacemaker, it’s still a very friendly ride and you shouldn’t have any difficulties with it. The Peacemaker wouldn’t be a wrong choice, so if you decided to go with that, it would be fine, but I would be leaning Proto Slinger.
Whichever one you go with, I think 149 is going to be the best size for you. But if you could also let me know your boot size, which is also important for sizing, I can confirm that.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate! Thanks a ton. For some reason, I can’t respond to your response below so posting here.
After looking more at your site – I am a level 5 – and will take some time to progress toward my goal – level 6 (will probably max out in this range) – I am sure both are ok as you mentioned – but with this extra information and goal in mind – I wanted to see if that changes your recommendation.
My gut is that the greater rocker and flex in Peacemaker is probably the better bet for me as I work towards building confidence and progressing to level 6.
QQ on speed in your reviews: For example, I saw you said the peacemaker felt wobbly at speed – but I was trying to understand what speed means relative to my level/speed – hopefully, that makes sense.
RE boot size: I am boot size 7 – I just bought new Burton photon step-ins. would these work well on either board?
Thanks a TON!. Best..Aaron
Hi Aaron
Thanks for the extra info.
In terms of the Peacemaker being wobbly at speed. It’s fine up to a certain amount of speed, but starts to get wobbly beyond that. Without knowing how fast you’re riding it’s hard to say if it would be an issue or not. But it’s fine for moderate speeds. I’d have no issues with you going Peacemaker and if that’s what your guts telling you, I think it would work.
Given your boot size, I’d definitely say 149.
The Photon are stiffer than I’d typically suggest for a board like the Peacemaker, but if anything in your lineup is going to be stiffer then the boots are it. i.e. I’d sooner go stiffer boots/bindings with a softer board, than I’d go softer boots/binding with a stiffer board. Ideally softer bindings for that board, but yeah, better than the other way around. Stiffer bindings on a softer board can make a board a little “twitchy”, so that’d be the only thing to think about.
Hi Nate!
Love your reviews. This particular review was a huge part of why I ordered this board. I’m super stoked.
Question about sizing, I’m 5’9″, 145-150ish, size 8 boot. I ordered the 153 to have a more All-Mountain experience. I’m currently rocking an older version of the Burton Custom X at 152.
What are your thoughts? On paper do you think the 153 will work for me or should I seriously consider switching down to 151 or 149?
Any thoughts are greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Reid
Hi Reid
Thanks for your message.
I think 153 would be a really good size for your height/weight, as an all-mountain size. But it is quite wide for your boots. For that reason, I would consider sizing down to the 151.
The older Custom X 152 is probably a good bit narrower (244mm waist, if it’s a 2013-2017 model) than the 153 Proto Slinger. It’s also a lot stiffer, so I don’t think you’d have any issues riding the 153 – and I think the length is good. My only thing would be the width and with it being on the wide side for your boot-size, there’s an argument that you could size down a bit.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate
Love the reviews here. I’m 5’7, 148lbs (weight fluctuates between 145-155), Size 7 men’s boots. I’d say I’m a high end intermediate all mountain rider, but I want to get into doing more tricks and park stuff as well. I actually already ordered the proto slinger in a 151cm and was wondering if you think I went with the right size. Or should I return it and go for the 149cm?
Thanks
Hi Aaron
Thanks for your message.
I think 151, purely on length, is spot on for your specs for this board, given you want to ride the park but still want to ride the mountain. 153 more of your all-mountain-length.
However, due to your boot size and the width of the board, I think sizing down a little bit would make sense – and 149 is still a good freestyle length for you and makes more sense when looking at the length and width as a whole, IMO. So length-ise, I think you’re OK, but ideally I think the 149cm would be the better overall size.
Hope this helps
Sweet, thanks for the reply!
You’re very welcome Aaron. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
I am thinking about purchasing this board but I am not sure what size to get. I like to ride a little bit on the smaller size so I can maneuver in the park a little bit easier. I am 5’11” 180 pounds and I have a size 11 ThirtyTwo boots. The dilemma that I am facing right now is if I should get a wide snowboard or not. I am looking at either the 154X or the 156 regular. If I get the 154X I know that I wont experience toe drag but I do not really want to deal with the extra weight if I do not have to. What I am really wondering is if I get the 156 regular board will I be fine with size 11 boots or will I experience too much toe or heel drag. Ideally I want the regular sized board but if I have to I will get the wide sized board.
Hi Robert
Thanks for your message.
I think the 156 is probably pushing it width-wise. You might get away with it, but it’s not something I would ride if I had 11s. The 154X isn’t that wide. In fact it’s a really good width for 11s, IMO. And going down that little bit in length, I don’t think you’ll have any issues with weight or maneuverability on the 154X, with your specs. At around 268mm at the inserts, the 154X isn’t that much wider than some regular width boards in a slightly longer size. And is what I could consider a nice middle ground for that 10.5, 11 boot. So yeah, I would go 154X, but I wouldn’t be too worried about the width as it’s not a particularly wide, wide board.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the great reviews! I’m looking at getting a new setup this year, and curious if the protoslinger would be a good fit. I’m 5’8, 155lbs, wear size 8 boots. Been riding an old 155 sierra reverse crew (2010 Burton Custom V Rocker) with flow five’s for last decade. I mainly ride out of bounds in the NW; playing in the trees in search of patches of powder ( greens feel like icy death traps). Never really charging down the groomers, or hitting jumps. Looking for a fun ride that’s gonna be responsive with slow technical maneuvers in trees, and good switch. Demo’d Funslinger and Dipstick in past and enjoyed the feel of NS boards. Do you think Protoslinger in 153 would be a good fit, or aim more for something like the protosynthesis? Been considering getting the protoslinger, then may be a stiffer all mountain board down the line.
Thanks,
Josh
Hi Josh
Thanks for your message.
Purely for getting in the trees/powder, I would probably look at a more directional option, but then you mentioned you wanted something good switch. In which case, I think this could work. It is a very agile board at slow speeds, so it certainly ticks that box – and for something that’s good switch but also works in trees, I think it’s certainly an option. And the fact that you’ve ridden and liked the funslinger is also another tick (the Proto Slinger not the same but still very similar to the Funslinger – just a slightly souped up Funslinger). Not something that’s going to be an effortless floater in deep powder, but otherwise, I think it works.
The Proto Synthesis would be an option, but it’s not as maneuverable at slower speeds as the Proto Slinger, IMO.
Size-wise, I think the 153 would be on the money for your specs and how you describe your riding.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
I currently have DOA and I am looking at changing board as my DOA has seen some good use. My DOA is a 154. A bit wider would have been better.
im am 171lb (78kg) 5ft7 ((173cm) with boot size 10.5 Adidas tactical ADV, Burton Genesis bindings (15=15)
Would a 154x work for me ?
Thank you
Hi Ted
Thanks for your message.
I think the 154X Proto Slinger would be a great size for you. Presuming you’re riding quite a bit of freestyle. I think it’s a great width for your boot size, being wide enough but not too wide – and a great freestyle length too.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Thank you for your reply.
This will be my main board. I spend about 40% of the time in the park but like to go for side hits while I am riding the mountain. I am looking at trying something a bit more playful then my current DOA.
It seems that the Proto Slinger offers good amount of flex while still not being terrible at all mountain.
My current genesis would do ok on this board? Or would you go for something on the softer side to get the most out of the board ?
Thank you
Ted
Hi Ted
Yeah, if you’re looking to go more playful but still want something decent on the mountain, then I think this ticks those boxes for sure. It’s certainly going to feel a good bit softer than the DOA. But yeah I think you’ll be fine on that size, so long as you’re not expecting it go Mach 5 without a wobble. It’s a good carver for it’s flex and its even not bad at speed for how soft it is, but still don’t expect a bomber or anything.
Genesis would be a good match on this board, IMO. You could afford to go softer as well on this board, but don’t have too. I think the Genesis would be a good match. I tested this on Burton Malavitas and had a blast. Ended up buying one and actually just took it out today! On the Malavitas, so yeah I think Genesis will be all good.
Great !
Thank you Nate
Enjoy the season and let’s hope it does not end early due to the covid
Regards from Switzerland
You’re very welcome Ted. Yeah, fingers crossed for sure!
Hi Nate
What size would you recommend for 6`’0 and 73kg (160lbs) , my bootsize 10UK/10,5US Adidas Samba, +15,-15 binding angles, union contact pro M, should I go for 153 or 156 on proto slinger?? I am looking for a board to play and learn tricks.
Hi Kamil
Thanks for your message.
Most likely the 156. If it was going to be your dedicated park board and you wanted it super playful/agile and weren’t doing any big jumps – like just smaller jumps – and weren’t worried about stability at speed or anything like that, then the 153 would certainly be an option too. You could also look at the 154X. With Samba US10.5, I think you should fit fine on either the 153 or 156 regular – so you certainly don’t have to go wider. But if you wanted a little more of a landing platform, but in a shorter board than 156, then that’s an option too.
Hope this helps with your decision
I forgot to mention in my previous message that my ride warpis is a 154 and my bindings are union atlas L!
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
Yeah I think 157X is what I would say for, for this board too. When I rode the Warpig, I found the 154 to feel more like a 160, so I think the 157X Proto Slinger is still going to feel smaller than that. It’s certainly sizing down a bit from your all-mountain size, IMO. There is a chance you’d get on the 156, but it would be pushing it width-wise. If you have low profile 11s and aren’t planning on carving too hard when riding the Proto Slinger, then I think 156 is doable. You could also potentially even go 154X, if you wanted something super short/soft and playful, but I think that’s getting a bit too small for your specs. I would be leaning towards 156 or 157X for you, depending on whether or not you think you could squeeze onto the 156.
For reference, I loved the 156 and bought it – 6’0″, 175lbs, size 10 boots. If I was to get it as my do-it-all, I’d likely go for the 159, but it’s my new freestyle board.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thanks a lot! So no wide (x) version for you? Before my Ride Warpig i was always against a wide version, but after the Warpig i like the idea. Also a lot of the snowshops recommend getting a wide version..
Hi Mike
With 11s I would say wide 80% of the time. If I had 11s, I would seriously consider going wide on the Proto Slinger, but not with 10s. If I had really low profile 11s, rode with +15/-15 angles and wasn’t planning on doing any real aggressive carves with the board, I would consider the 156, but even in that case would seriously consider the 157X. But with 10s (or 9.5s depending on the brand), I wouldn’t go wide, unless I was going with a specific short/wide board, like the Warpig or if I was sizing down. 156 for a dedicated freestyle board for me isn’t what I would consider sizing down. I would look at the 154X potentially, if I wanted something a little wider. But you’ve got a little size on me both in terms of height/weight and boot size, so I would err towards 157X for you.
Hi Nate, just reading you kind and helpfull advice regarding board sizing.. I’m in a bit of a pickle, i am a bit taller and heavier than Chip. My bootsize is 11 (44 in eu), im 190cm so thats 6ft3inch and my weight is 85 kg (185-190lbs). I already have a stiff board for carving, a powder board and something in between (the ride warpig). I’m leaning towards the 157X, what is your advice for the NS Proto Slinger?
Thanks Nate, hope you are doing well!
Hi Nate,
Great review. What size would you recommend for 165-170#, 6’0″, size 11 Tactical ADVs and +12, -12 binding angles? I’m high intermediate or barely advanced. Generally like to charge hard and carve, but want to slow it down a little and do ground tricks on this board.
Thanks in advance!
Chip
Hi Chip
Thanks for your message.
The answer would depend on whether you have another board or not. Just want to clarify whether you have another board you like to charge hard and carve on and would be using the Slinger mostly for your ground tricks.
If this would be your only board, then you’d probably want to go a little longer and maybe even wider – something like the 157X or even 159. It’s a great carver for how soft it is, and for how soft it is, it handles speed pretty well, but certainly still not a bomber. Very freestyle oriented. Going a little longer and/or wider would help with your charging and carving, but it’s still a board that’s going to be somewhat limited for that side of things.
Assuming you have another board for carve hard/bomb, then I think 156 or even 154X would be good options. With Tactical ADV 11s, you would be unlikely to have any issues with the 156 width-wise, particularly if it’s a board you wouldn’t be doing any hard carves on. But if you wanted to go a little shorter and get a bit more of a wider platform, then the 154X would certainly be in your wheelhouse too.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thanks, Nate.
I should have clarified: I have other boards. This one would be my softest board and I’d use it for tricks (butters, spins off rollers, a little jibbing, maybe little jumps). While I generally like charging and laying it over, I know this board isn’t great at that. I’m ok with losing some of that, but don’t want to give up too much. Considering all that, would you lean towards 156 or 154w for me? Would you please explain thought process between the two?
Thanks again.
Chip
Hi Chip
Apologies for the slow response. Currently on vacation.
It’s a tight call between the 154X and 156 for you, but I think I would be leaning towards 154X for you.
Even though your Tactical ADV 11s would likely work for a regular width if you’re not going to be laying it over too much, with Adidas 11s, your feet would also not be too small for the 154X – with your foot size, I would say that both would be equally as maneuverable with the 154X being a little shorter and your feet likely still reaching the edges of the board.
And going a little shorter can help with swing weight for spins, make buttering easier (though in this case it’s super butterable anyway, so prob not a heap of difference there). And going that little bit wider will give you a bit more room to lay it over a little when you feel for it, and an overall bigger surface area for a bigger landing platform.
I think you would get on with both sizes well, and there’s not much in it, but I would be leaning 154X for you.