Hello and welcome to my Never Summer West Bound snowboard review.
In this review, I will take a look at the West Bound as a freeride snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the West Bound a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other freeride snowboards.
NOTE: The 2021 model was the last model of the Westbound.
Overall Rating
Board: Never Summer West Bound 2020
Price: $599
Style: Freeride
Flex Rating: Mid-firm
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Rating Score: 90.2/100
Compared to other Men’s Freeride Boards
Out of the 36 men’s freeride snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the West Bound’s Specs
Check out the tables for the West Bound’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | Freeride |
Price: | $599 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Medium-Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Setback ~20mm |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | Normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
153 | 251 | not available | n/a |
155 | 253 | n/a | n/a |
157 | 255 | n/a | n/a |
160 | 257 | n/a | n/a |
163 | 259 | n/a | n/a |
158X | 264 | n/a | n/a |
161X | 265 | n/a | n/a |
165X | 267 | n/a | n/a |
168X | 269 | n/a | n/a |
157DF | 280 | n/a | n/a |
160DF | 284 | n/a | n/a |
166DF | 285 | n/a | n/a |
*DF = Drag Free
Note, the 166DF is a new size for the 2021 model.
Who is the West Bound Most Suited To?
The West Bound is great for anyone looking for a freeride board that doesn't feel too locked in or overly stiff or aggressive.
Anyone who cares mostly about carving groomers, riding at speed and finding powder whenever it's available, but to not have a board that they feel like they have to put their all into, every time, all day. You can get a little lazy on it, when you want.
Whilst it's on the easier going side for a freeride board, it's far from beginner friendly. But good for a solid intermediate (or up) rider, who's looking for a freeride board.
The West Bound in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the West Bound is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Never Summer West Bound 2020, 157cm (255mm waist width)
Date: March 2, 2019
Conditions:
Bright blue skies. Groomers hard but not icy. A little cruddy in places.
Some light fresh off-groomer.
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 575mm (22.6″)
Stance Setback: Setback ~20mm (not sure what the actual setback on effective edge is but setback on the overall length of the board by 41mm - the nose is longer than the tail, but not sure by how much, so just guessing by around 20mm)
Width at Inserts: 265mm (10.43") at front insert and 264mm (10.39")
Rider Height: 6'0"
Rider Weight: 185lbs
Rider Boot Size: US10 Vans Aura
Bindings Used: Burton Malavita M
Powder
Wasn't waist deep or anything on the day, but there were still some fresh pockets around that I was able to find - and the Westbound felt awesome in there. And based on the specs and that feeling, this board is well equipped to deal with powder - even of the deeper variety.
Carving & Turning
Carving: Felt so smooth on a carve. Whilst this board isn't labelled as being super damp by Never Summer it felt pretty damp - and just smooth is the best way to describe how it carves.
Maneuverability at slow speeds: Actually really good for a board that carves this well and for the flex it has. You can definitely still ride this board slow.
Skidded Turns: You can get away with skids to an extent. Not a catchy board by any means. Not beginner easy to skid either though.
Speed
Felt really stable at speed. And rode fast in general. Felt very comfortable riding this board fast. I did have a pretty smooth groomer to open it out on, but man was it fun to bomb.
Uneven Terrain
Pretty good in uneven terrain. Didn't have a lot of crud to contend with at the time I rode it, which was weird given it was a busy Saturday, but I managed to find a part of the resort that just doesn't get that much traffic to do my testing. But it's certainly nimble enough to weave through bumpy areas and damp enough to absorb a decent amount of chatter.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Jumps
It's OK for jumps without being a jump monster.
Pop: Good amount of pop, without being an epic popper. If you load it up you can get more out of it, but there is some easily accessible pop too.
Approach: Nice and stable for approach to larger jumps, and nimble enough for trickier approaches.
Landing: Nice and stable on landings, without being a stomper.
Side-hits: Nimble enough and decent enough in terms of pop to be pretty good for side-hits.
Small jumps/Big Jumps: Probably more suited to big jumps given it's flex, but can do smaller jumps too
Switch
Not really one made for riding switch. But it's not the weirdest riding switch either. Doable.
Spins
Again not what it's made for, but you can spin it of course. Just not the best for landing taking off switch. Not super hard to get the spin around on it, but not super-easy either.
Butters
You can actually butter this board. It's not super-easy but for a freeride board it's easier than you'd think.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
CARVING | 4.5 | 18/20 |
TURNING | 4.5 | 9/10 |
POWDER | 4.5 | 18/20 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 16/20 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
JUMPS | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SWITCH | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.2/100 |
Overall, the West Bound was a super fun ride, especially for carving up the groomers, hitting powder and generally bombing at pace.
But at the same time you could get more casual on this board and it didn't feel like you were trying to steer a tank - and you can skid turns on it reasonably well too.
I was disappointed when I learned Never Summer were getting rid of the West and that the West Bound wasn't going to be a direct replacement for it (different in a quite a number of ways), but even though it's very much not the same as the West, it's an awesome board in it's own right. I still think there's a place in their line for the West, but the West Bound definitely has a place too!
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the West Bound, 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 freeride snowboard options, or if you want to compare how the West Bound compares to other freeride snowboards, then check out the next link.
Hi Nate
I recently bought a 2021 West Bound sized 157cm and am looking forward to trying it soon. For bombing the groomer runs and hard carving, what stance angle would you recommend? Does aggressive forward angles for both feet work for this board with this fusion rocker profile? I have another board, which is full camber (Korua Cafe Racer), and am hoping to practise carving on both boards. Will the fusion rocker profile of the WB require a different set of skills to master for carving, and could that hamper my learning curve on Korua CR?
Hey Sam
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think a forward stance makes sense if your focus is on carving. Also listen to what your body likes. We’re all anatomically a little difference and what our particular physical characteristics prefer can differ, so there’s not really like a “this is your best angles” but I would experiment based on looking to use a more forward stance, as opposed to a duck stance.
Certainly I find you have to make adjustments to ride different profiles and fusion rocker profile is quite a different feeling to a trad camber profile. But I think they can exist together. It will take a little adjustment each time you change boards, but over time you will get quicker and quicker at adjusting. Because I ride so many boards each season, swapping between profiles, it usually only takes a couple of turns to get a feel for how a board likes to be ridden. It might take you a little longer, but once you’re familiar with how each board likes to be ridden, you should be good.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great info here, really invaluable for those of us that are picky about what we ride.
Regarding the West Bound, I’m trying to decide between a 157 and 160. I already have a powder board (Mind Expander) for deep days, so this would be for the other 80% of the time… i.e. high-speed groomers, PNW chunder, dust on crust, squirrely tree runs, etc.
I’m 5’10”, 180 pounds, size 10 Burton Boa’s. Do you think there’d be any issue with toe/heel drag, and/or chatter at high speeds with the 157? For maneuverability in the tight spaces we have here in the Pacific NW, I tend to like slightly shorter decks when it doesn’t mean a significant reduction in performance. Thanks!
Hi Jake
Thanks for your message.
I rode the 157 (was 185lbs when I rode it) and I found it was very stable at speed. I did have well groomed groomers that day, but all round the 157 felt good at speed to me. Goes without saying that the 160 would be more stable, but I found the 157 stable enough.
You shouldn’t have any issues with boot drag on the 157. The back insert is 264mm and I’ve never had any issues with that with 10s, even less low profile than a Burton 10 would be. Note that I do typically ride with a +15/-15 duck stance. But I’d still be pretty confident with the width of this one, even if I rode with zero angle on the back binding.
You’re certainly going to get a bit more maneuverability with the 157 versus 160 – and I think, given that you won’t be using it on powder days, that I’d be leaning to the 157. 160 is certainly a size within your range, for sure, and if it was your one board quiver, including powder, I might be more inclined to go 160, but I would be leaning 157 in this case.
Hope this helps with your decision
You’re the man! And I actually do ride 17+ front and 0 back, so thanks for making that point. Keep up the good work.
You’re very welcome Jake. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you go with and how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the awesome review. I’m looking to replace my Pick Your Line in 160W that started to delaminate after around 20 days worth of wear. (Anyone have this issue with PYL?)
I tried out westbound in 161X. I loved it but I’m considering getting the board in 165X. Do you think that is too much of a board? I’m 6’1 200 pounds with size 12.5 boots for reference. I enjoy doing everything on the mountain. Charging, carving, tree runs, jumping, etc. I’m mostly looking to up my free riding game. Thanks in advance for your reply!
Asher
Hi Asher
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t had any issues with my YES Greats delaminating, but haven’t ever had the PYL long enough to know.
For Westbound I would probably stick to 161X, for a couple of reasons. Firstly, since you’ve ridden it and know you like it. 4cm can make a big difference. Secondly, because I think it’s a better match to your specs. 165X isn’t undoable, if you were going to be predominantly in open terrain powder, bombing, bowls etc. But since you’re going to be riding trees, jumping etc, I think 161X is the better match.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, hoping you can help me dial in the best size for me on the west bound deck. I am 5’8, 165, size 9.5 boot. Intermediate to advanced rider who is looking to use this board for powder days with a mix of cruzing bowls and trees. I have a set of union atlas I will be using. I’m debating between 155 and 157 and hoping to get your recommendation. Thx!
Also for reference, I ride a Solomon assassin 153 as my everyday/all mnt board.
Hi Mychal
Thanks for your message.
155 and 157 are the sizes I would be debating between for you as well, and I don’t think there’s a wrong size, but I would be leaning towards 155 for your specs and how you describe your riding. The 157 would give you a bigger difference with your existing board, and I think if you were going to be predominantly using it for open terrain powder, bowls and bombing, then there’d be more of an argument for 157, but given that you also want to ride trees with it, I would be leaning 155.
Hope this helps
Great, thanks! Really appreciate the input Nate. Have a good one
No worries Mychal. Happy riding!
Hey Nate, one more thing I wanted to run by you. I think I am leaning 157, as I need a bigger mnt board that can handle powder and bowls…vs excelling in the trees (my assassin does well there). My question is, with a more free ride focused board I will prob ride it with a bit more narrow stance 19.5-20 inches. Do you think that stance would still be within the boards sweet spot/recommended stance?
Hi Mychal
With the Stance on the West Bound I probably wouldn’t move too far off reference, just because of how the camber sits on the West Bound, particularly at the back foot. If you move that back foot too far to the center of the board, then you’re kinda getting off the camber and more onto the rocker, which will cause you to lose some of the spring. I think you could certainly narrow the stance from where I rode it, but I would probably try not to go too much narrower than 21″ – and as little movement from the back binding.
Note that if you were to move the front binding more to the center than you move the back binding, then that will create more setback. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, depending on what you want. So, I think the only way I would do more than 40mm (1.5″) of narrowing is if you were to move the front binding 40mm back and the back binding 20mm (3/4″) forward. I wouldn’t personally move the back binding any further forward than that, just so it’s not moving too far off that camber section. That would mean an additional 20mm of setback. If that extra setback is OK for you (and the Westbound isn’t super setback to begin with, so it’s probably fine), then that would give you a stance of 515mm (20.3″). I think that’s as much as I would do, and I would do it so that back binding is no more than 20mm forward.
Sorry, one more question in addition to the stance question. Do you know if last years west bound board would ride the same as the 2021? Any new improvements this year? Found last years model for ~400$. Thx again!
Hi Mychal
As far as I know the 2020 West Bound is identical to the 2021 model, apart from the graphic.
Super helpful Nate. I appreciate you talking through the details. Makes it a lot easier to pull the trigger on a new board. I ordered up the 157 today and gonna hit steamboat with it next week. Cheers!
You’re very welcome Mychal. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on at Steamboat with the new deck.
Hey Nate,
In the market for a new some free ride boards. I currently have the Mind Expander 166 which is my powder board. I also have the Yes Greats 159 which is freestyle board all mountain board. I own but don’t ride anymore as much anymore the Never Summer West 164x which you recommended and I was very appreciate off 3 years ago. I want a freeride board that is nimble yet fast and stable. I also like a very damp ride that will get me through uneven terrain easily and limit the chatter.
I’m looking buying the Never Summer West bound, the PYL and the Jones Flagship. I’ve read your other reviews on these boards. Can’t make up my mind so I’m getting all three! What size would you recommend for this.
For my specs, I weigh 230lbs, 6’0 and wear a size 11.5 on Addias tactical ADVs. My stance angle are 15/-15 for all mountain switch riding and I ride 21/-9 for freeride boards. My stance width is pretty wide, for example I maxed out my stance width on my 166 mind expander on mini disc (falcor) and my yes greats 159 on standards disc (atlas)
I know Never Summer has no weight restrictions so ideally I would like to ride something that will allow me to take advantage of that. So maybe something shorter?
1. I’m thinking 158x or 161x (or longer if you recommend) for the west bound.
2. Based on weight recs 164w and 165 for PYL (not sure if the added width takes away from the overall quality of the ride) but can I get away with a 160w or maybe a 162 if the width at the inserts allow?
3. For the Jones flagship I don’t have a board bag big enough to fit 169w or a 172 which is recommended based on weight but not sure you would recommend a shorter flagship based on my specs or if need to invest in a new board bag.
This is a lengthy question and I truly appreciate your time in helping with this.
-Rasheed
Hi Rasheed
Thanks for your message.
Will depend a little I think whether you plan to keep all 3 of these? Or are you going to see which you like the most and keep that. I think if you plan on having all 3, then it would make sense to vary the sizes between them, so that you have something shorter and something longer, depending on the conditions you end up in.
If you are going to keep just 1, then I would go:
1. West Bound 161X. This is sizing down a little for your specs, but definitely doable if you want to ride something shorter. I think for this board 158X is getting too small for you though.
2. I think 164W would work best in this case. I think you would be fine width-wise, given that your in Tactical ADVs and that you’ll be riding on a wider stance. So, if you really wanted to get a shorter ride, then that’s certainly an option that could accommodate you width-wise. The 165 would probably be doable width-wise too, if you were looking to go longer but narrower. The 162 is probably pushing it though – risking being too narrow there.
3. Despite the weight recommendations, I would say that the 169W or 172 is too big (unless you are going to be using all 3 of these, in which case, having something longer in there might make sense). I would be looking at either 162W or 165W. Probably leaning 165W, but 162W certainly doable.
If you did plan to keep and ride all 3, then I would probably go 161X West Bound, 164W PYL and 167 Flagship. 169W Flagship is getting really wide and long, so it’s going to feel super big, IMO. The 172 is almost more doable, because it will be ultra long, but without that extra width.
Hope this helps
Yes it does! Thanks so much! I decided to purchase the 164W PYL first which I ordered yesterday. I will pair it up with the falcor.
The 161x west bound is sold out/back order. I did find last years version at a discount so might go with that if there are no changes.
I’ve heard the flagship might be a tougher ride so I plan on demo-ing the board before purchase.
Thanks again!
-Rasheed
You’re very welcome Rasheed.
Last year’s West Bound is pretty much the same board with a different graphic as far as I can tell, so if you can get last years in a size you want, then you’re basically getting the same board.
I was able to get this year’s 161 x west bound through the link above on evo but I had to search for the west bound x as the link takes you the regular version of the west bound. I also and pulled the trigger on the Jones Flagship 167 as well using your backcountry link on that page’s review. Looking forward to riding all these boards! Will update you later in the season about my experience riding them.
-Rasheed
Hi Rasheed
Thanks for the update – and I really appreciate the use of the links. Look forward to hearing about your experience once you’ve had a chance to test them out.
Hey Nate,
I am looking at this board as my jump into freeride boards. My wilder days are behind me, so Im looking to stay lower to the ground with my main focus on carving and cruising runs. Im 5ft 10, 200pds, and a size 10 boot. Should I be looking at a 157 or a 160? Or maybe something else.
Thanks!
Hi Scott
Thanks for your message.
I think this would work well for what you’re describing. Size-wise, I would go for the 160 for you. It’s spot on in terms of size for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Awesome, thanks Nate. I can’t wait to cruise the day away on this thing.
You’re very welcome Scott. Happy riding!
Hi Nate
Thank you for your great reviews, and I’m truly impressed with the time you take answering all the questions (and very unbiased).
You have helped me before in selecting board and bindings, thank you very much by the way.
I’m 6’1″, 180lbs, size 9,5 boots (US)
I currently ride the 156 NS Funslinger with Malavita bindings and Salomon Launch Boa SJ boots.
Just ordered a 157 West Bound to add a stiffer board to my line up. It took me a lot of thinking to decide between the 157 and the 160 (same as between the 156 and 159 FS before).
I decided to go with the shorter board again because my son skies in and out of the trees all the time and, I want to have the nimbleness to follow him.
I’m an intermediate/high intermediate rider. I ride the whole mountain (following my 10yo son mostly, who skies). I’m not really a park rider by choice but spend some decent time there because of my son. 🙂 Park and trees is what I see most of to be honest.
Carving groomers and searching the odd pow is where I mostly enjoy being.
The Funslinger is serving me really well and will not be replaced, just want the addition of more carving speed and pow versatility.
The addition of the West Bound I hope will give me more enjoyment in the places that I want to ride, but still will manage well where my son goes.
I have two questions that I hope you can give me some guidance on.
Bindings for the WB.
I’ve been wanting to try a pair of Union bindings and have narrowed it down to the Falcor and Atlas (could consider the Force as well).
Which of these bindings would you say is best the match for me on the West Bound?
Boots for the board and binding setup.
I love the Salomon Launch, the fit is great, they are comfortable, warm and great heal hold.
I’m concerned that they might be too soft for the WB.
If you think the Launch could work with the setup, I would try that first.
In other case I have been looking at two other boots (I’ve tried traditional lacing and speed lace boots, like the Boa best).
Adidas Response 3MC ADV – Probably will be too wide for my feet
Salomon Dialogue Focus Boa – I expect that they would fit like the Launch
Do you think the Launch would work for me on the WB?
Would the Dialogue or the Response be a good/better match?
Or should I go stiffer?
Thank you for your time and patience with all questions.
Hi Peter
Thanks for your message.
Firstly I think you made a made a good choice for the board and the sizing, given all the info you provided.
In terms of bindings for the WB, I would personally put the Falcor on it, but the Atlas would certainly work. I just feel like I got a bit more energy/response from the Falcor. But Atlas definitely a match for the WB too, IMO.
In terms of boots, you could certainly try the Launch to start with to see how they go with the WB. Certainly if they’re boots that fit you well and you like them, it’s worth trying them, before you get a second pair. Ideally, something a little stiffer would work better. The Dialogue Boa and Response Boa are both stiffer than the Launch, but not by massive amounts – I’d say Launch around a 4.5/10, maybe 5/10 and the Response/Dialogue more like a 6/10. Ideally with the WB, I would go 7/10 or even 8/10, particularly as you’re looking for better carving/speed. And also, if you’re going to get a second pair of boots, I think it makes sense to have the boots more different. If it was me, I would try the Launch, and if you feel like you need more, then I would go for something a little stiffer personally.
In terms of width, personally I haven’t found wide boots feel too wide. I have a regular width foot and don’t really ever find boots too wide. I think the other way around it doesn’t work (i.e. if you’ve got wide feet, they don’t work in narrow boots) but in my experience having regular width feet, going wide doesn’t seem to affect things. If you have a narrow foot, then that might be a different story though. A wide boot then might feel too wide.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you Nate
Swift and professional response, as always.
Good point on the boot flex, I agree that I should go stiffer if I get one more pair.
I’ll try on 7 and 8 flex boots when I go to NM over Thanksgiving, see if I can find anything that fits me well.
Until I get a second pair, I’ll make do with the Launch.
The Falcor was my favorite pick of binding, I will go with them.
I’ll add a few comments on the Atlas vs Falcor for the next reader.
The Atlas has all possible adjustability (heal cup, high back rotation, gas pedal extension, gas pedal stiffness adjustment, tool less high back adjustment, and more).
Some people will need these to get it dialed in.
The Falcor does not have: high back rotation, gas pedal extension, gas pedal stiffness adjustment and not even tool less high back lean.
Personally I like the simplicity of things, “set it and forget it” someone has said in a Falcor review.
I will try the Falcor first, if I can get them and my boot dialed in then that will be the setup.
If not, I’ll bite the bullet and exchange for the Atlas.
Hi Peter
Thanks for the comments on the Falcor vs Atlas – and spot on in terms of the adjustability differences. And sounds like you’ve got a good plan in place there. Happy riding!
Hey Nate,
Love your reviews, very detailed. I’m about 6’1 but very light ~160. I have L mission bindings with a 10.5 burton boot. Would I have no issues carving and clipping my toes/heel on a 155 or should I bump up to a 157 or 158W? I’m kind of torn because my current board is 160 and I’m looking for something shorter but shorter boards are usually not wide enough.
Hi Andriy
Thanks for your message.
It’s borderline on the 155, but could be doable, depending on a couple of things. Having Burton boots certainly helps, as they’re pretty low profile. But it will also depend on your back binding angle and how deep you like to carve.
The width at inserts on the 155 is roughly 262mm (or 26.2cm) on the back insert. A typical Burton 10.5 boot is around 31cm long. That would give you total overhang of roughly 4.8cm on the back foot. That’s with a 0 degree angle on your back foot. That’s already doable, if you don’t carve that aggressively, and even more so if you can get a little more of that overhang on the heel versus toe. E.g. if you could set it up to be like 2.2 on the toe and 2.6 on the heel or something like that. Probably pushing it if you like to carve deep – like eurocarve.
With a bit of angle on your back foot, that gives you a bit more leeway too. Also if you were to ride it with a wider than reference stance, which is possible at your height, depending on your preference, that would give you a bit more leeway too. Going to the 157 would also give you a little more leeway too. I think the 157 would work for your specs. The 155 would too, depending on how short you wanted to go – and depending on how you want your ride. The 155 would give more easy maneuverability at slower speeds, better for trees, and better for freestyle stuff, if you were going to be doing any. The 157 would give you more float in powder and better stability at speed, and better for big carves.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hey Nate,
Awesome review on the board. I’m leaning pretty heavily on getting on of these. I was wondering what size you’d recommend for someone who’s 6’2″, 185lbs, size 12US boots. I’m a intermediate to high intermediate rider and I ride mostly powder when there is some. My other board is 163W, not sure if I should be sizing it up or down?
Thanks,
Carlos
Hi Carlos
Thanks for your message.
Not taking into account your other board, I would say go 161X for your specs/ability. If you prefer your boards a little longer, then 165X is a possibility too, but I would say 161X. If you can let me know the make/model of your other board, I can get an idea of it’s overall size, including effective edge, which I can take into account.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Awesome review. I’m totally sold on this board. But, I am having an issue with picking the right size. I am 5’11, 165 lbs. I would say that I ride 65% of the time groomers with speed while rest of the time I’d venture out to find power. Boot size is 12. What do you think?
Thanks
Elan
Hi Elan
Thanks for the message.
Length-wise, I would be looking at something around 157-160 for your specs and how you describe your riding.
With size 12 boots, I would highly recommend going wide. So the 158X would be spot on for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I just received the West Bound as a birthday gift and looking to ensure the sizing is correct and also looking for a new boot/binding combo to pair with this board. From what i’ve read so far, the board is perfect for my needs but going to have to wait until next season starts to give it a go!
Regarding sizing, I am 5’8″, 175lbs. Wear a size 9.5 shoe. I currently have the 153, but can exchange to change the size if necessary. Is this a good fit?
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message. Awesome gift!
Ideally I would go longer for you. I would be weighing up between the 155 and 157 for your specs. The 153 is a bit short for you, IMO. If you were going to be predominantly riding in the trees and not too worried about stability at speed, then you would certainly be fine on the 153, but otherwise, I would go longer.
Between the 155 and 157, it would depend on your preferences. Some general things:
– The 157 would give you more stability at speed and better float in powder, at the expense of a little bit of maneuverability at slow speeds
– The 155 will maneuver more easily at slow speeds, be better for doing anything freestyle, if you were going to be using this board for anything like that – butters, jibs, side-hits etc
Hope that can give you more to go off for choosing the right length.
In terms of boots/bindings, I would be looking at something mid-stiff, to match the board. Anything around 7/10, in terms of flex would be a good match, IMO. You can check out some options at the following:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Nate,
Thanks for the informative website – lots of good information here!
I am looking to upgrade from a Bataleon Enemy 161 that I have been riding for about 10-11 years now. It has been a good board but its time for an upgrade. These days I am looking for something more stable at high speeds with the ability to make deep carves on hard packed/icy groomers as well as be able to hit the trees/side country when the snow is right. I no longer venture into the park but will play around on the occasional natural feature if conditional are right. I have been snowboarding for nearly 25 years and would consider myself advanced/expert primarily riding the icy East coast with occasional trips West.
I am 6′ 1″ 200lbs and currently use size 13 Vans Encore boots of equal vintage that fit well but I am looking to upgrade these as they are showing their age and I have always felt there was too much overhang on the Enemy. My shoes are usually a 12.5 so I may try to downsize if possible.
Looking at freeride options the West Bound looks like it might fit the bill but I was hoping for advice on sizing as I have not been able to demo one locally. The 160DF seems interesting but I am not sure if the 165X or 161X would be a better option.
Alternately, the Burton FA and the YES PYL look to be solid boards with decent size options – would you recommend any of these other the other?
The NS East also sounds intriguing but that falls in a bit of a different category.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Jared
Thanks for your message.
I don’t test Bataleon boards, so I’m not familiar with the Enemy, but from what I can tell it looks like it was a regular width board in the 161. With 13s, I would be tempted to lean towards the DF size, but if your 161 is regular width, and you haven’t had any issues with drag, then maybe going to just wide is the best bet – it would be a massive difference to go as wide as the 160DF. Also, if you do get into 12s for your next boots, that makes the wide vs the DF even more appealing. I would look at Adidas boots for 2 reasons. Firstly, I find (and most people I talk to) that I can get into an Adidas boot that’s 1/2 size down from most other boots. E.g. I’m usually a 10 in boots, but wear a 9.5 in Adidas boots. So you’d probably get into a 12 I’d say. Secondly they are really low profile, so getting into a 12 is like getting into an 11 for most other boot brands. So it’s a double win. If you can get that kind of boot, then you would definitely not need to go DF.
Length-wise, I would say, generally speaking that something around 163 is a good bet. So that’s kind of in between the 161X and 165X. I would say go 165X if you want to prioritize speed, carving and groomers. If you think you want more in terms of trees, sidehits, then go down to the 161X. Also, if you tend to ride a smaller mountain, that can make a smaller board more appealing too.
Certainly the FA and PYL are good options too. I would be leaning PYL, just because it’s better in icy conditions, IMO, and since you’re riding that a lot. 164W is probably your best bet there. But if you wanted to go shorter the 160W is doable. But it’s probably pushing not being wide enough for 13s, but certainly OK if you got into 12s – particularly low profile 12s.
The FA I’d go 162W.
I haven’t ridden the East, so I can’t say much there. It is designed for East Coast riding, so it’s got that going for it. It does look very stiff. That might be something you want, but if you don’t things too stiff, then that’s something to consider there.
Between the 3, I would say that the FA & PYL are probably going to have a more similar feel to the Bataleon Enemy, just because of the camber profile. The West Bound will likely feel the most different to it. So, if you’re looking to go quite different, then the West Bound might be the way to go. If you’re looking to keep things more similar (but certainly far from the same), then the FA & PYL are perhaps more appealing.
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate,
First off – Thank you for the detailed response!
After a bit more research combined with your input I decided to pull the trigger on a PYL 164W. I am sure the other options are also great boards but the characteristics seemed to fit my style the best. Additionally I liked the 164W size option the best out of all the offerings.
For boots I decided to go with the Adidas Acerra 3ST ADV size 12 and will just have to try them and see if they fit but if they are closer to a 12.5 I think they will be good.
For the remainder of this season I plan to swap over my old bindings and see how I like them with the new setup – these are 2016 Flow NX2-GT Fusion which can be pretty responsive if they are setup correctly. Lately I have been having issues with the rear binding adjustments changing while on the lift so I may look to get into something different for next season.
Do you have a specific binding recommendation for the PYL paired with the Adidas Acerra 3ST if I decide to make a change?
Again – Thank you for the assistance and the great reviews on this site!
Hi Jared
Thanks for the update – and awesome that you have your new boots and board sorted! Always exciting.
In terms of bindings for that setup, I would be looking at something probably 7/10 to 9/10 in terms of flex. I would check out the following for some great options in that flex range.
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
Hey Nate,
Thanks for all the great reviews. I just upgraded from some old Flow bindings to the new Falcors and am torn between a few freeride decks. I am trying to decide between a NS West Bound, Yes Pick Your Line, and a Burton Flight Attendant. I demoed the FA and absolutely loved the ride out in Northstar, however, I have been leaning towards the West Bound because I’ve just always wanted to add a NS to my quiver and the reviews are great. My concern is the rocker between the feet on the West Bound and if I will enjoy it as much as the hybrid camber on the FA. I haven’t got the chance to ride the PYL but it seems very similar to the FA. I mainly ride in Colorado and Tahoe, bowls and trees are where I call home, but I will hit groomers often too. Never any park riding for me. What would you recommend?
Hi Ethan
Thanks for your message.
There’s not a bad choice between those boards! All awesome freeride decks, IMO! But I would be leaning towards the FA, just because you’ve ridden it and know you like it. If it turns out you don’t like the feel of the Hybrid Rocker on the West Bound, then that’s a risk. Going with a board you already know you like is a safer bet for sure. Personally, I don’t have a preference between hybrid rocker and hybrid camber. I enjoy both – but I ride a lot of both, so I’m very used to them. The PYL, having a similar camber profile, also an option, for sure. I certainly wouldn’t say they’re the same board, but if you liked the FA, I would say you would like the PYL too. PYL is my favorite Freeride board, and given it’s similar profile, I don’t think you could go wrong there. But FA would be your safest bet, having experienced and enjoyed it before.
Hope this helps
I am digging this board, but am torn between the Union Strata or Falcor bindings. I would say that I am an advancing intermediate. Would the Falcor’s be too tough for me?
Hi Landon
Thanks for your message.
IMO the Falcor are the best match to the West Bound, between the Strata and Falcor. But the Strata are certainly doable. It’s hard to say if the Falcors will be too tough for you – they do have some forgiveness to them. They’re not ultra stiff or anything. I would say they are good for a solid intermediate rider and up, so I’d say you should be fine, but no guarantees. If you could also let me know your height, weight and the size of your West Bound. A rider’s weight can also influence how stiff a binding will feel to them.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the reply. I am right between 5’6 and 5’7 and weigh 150 pounds. I am debating between the 153 and 155. My current set up is the Rossignol One Magtek 153 with Burton Cartel bindings.
P.S. our of curiosity for the weight charts. Are they taking into account a standard amount of gear that one wears? Boots, jackets, pants, back packs do add around 5-10 pounds.
Hi Landon
Thanks for the extra info. From the brands that I’ve spoken to about the weight recommendations, they say that it’s for general weight, without gear. They don’t take gear into account with the weight recommendations. Just to make it easier. I can’t clarify that’s how all the brands do it, but for the couple that I’ve spoken to, that’s their take.
So, I would be leaning towards the 153 for you. Given your weight, I think the Strata would be a good match, Similar flex to the Cartel’s. But the West Bound a little stiffer than the Rossi One. You could certainly still go Falcor, but they are going to feel stiffer than the Cartel and Strata, so would take some getting used to. They’re a good match for the West Bounce for sure, it’s just whether they would feel too stiff for you. Strata would give youa similar flex to what you’re used to. Still a slightly different feel overall to the Cartel, but similar in terms of flex.
Hi Nate,
Got the board. Thanks a lot for your feedback. I got the board, but there are no reference points for the bindings. Also, if I screw them right in the middle of the 6 screws, it’s around 21.5 inches in width. I want to ride at 20 inches and need to move only one of the bindings in by 1 screw. Would you move the back or front binding to accomplish this. Also, am I correct to assume the middle of the sets are the reference points?
Thanks in advance.
Landon
Hi Landon
Yeah Never Summer never show reference points. It’s a little annoying. Reference should be the holes surrounding the 3rd hole in from the center. So the 2nd and 4th holes from the center of the board, if that makes sense. That’s typically what it is, when there are 6 holes.
In order to narrow your stance, if you just want to do it by 1 hole, I would probably move the front binding back one hole. That way you would be increasing your set back a little bit. Never Summer also don’t give a setback in their specs, which is also annoying, so I’m not sure what the setback is on the effective edge, but I think it’s roughly 20mm (3/4″), so it’s not a huge setback. If you bring the back binding forward one, you might even end up centered on effective edge. Given that this board is designed to be setback, I would personally prefer to increase the setback a little, rather than going the other way.
Jumping on this Mr. Nate. Let’s say 6’2 280lbs rider on a 166DF size 13-14 boot. What binding would you recommend ? I do have a set of old t.rice bindings from 2015 maybe 16. Idk if I should stick to
Those or go new.
Hi Andrew
Yeah, I think the old T Rice would be a good match. You’d get better straps on a newer model for sure – and probably a little lighter, but in terms of response/flex match, the Union T Rice would be a good match for this board, IMO. You could potentially go a little stiffer too, if you wanted, for your specs, but I would try out the T Rice and see how you get on.
Hope this helps
Thank you, Nate. I appreciate the reply and the review.
You’re very welcome Andrew. Happy riding!
Hey Nate, love your reviews. I’m considering the West Bound, but not sure what size. I’m 5′ 10″, 175 lbs, size 11 US (32 Lashed). It’s between the 160 (my preference) and the 158x. Do you think I’ll have any problems with toe drag on the 160?
thanks.
Mike
Hi Mike
Thanks for your messages.
I would probably go 158X for you. The 160 would be pushing it in terms of width with US11 32 Lashed, IMO. You might get away with it, but there’s certainly some risk there. The 158X isn’t too wide for 11s, IMO, and I think that length is actually better for your specs. If you really wanted to go narrower/longer, I think you would get away with the 160, if you didn’t ride that aggressive, but if you’re railing your carves quite hard, then there’s certainly boot drag risk there, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
First off, I love this board. Your review of it is spot on! I ended up going with the 160, which worked out well for me. I did adjust my binding angles a little and moved the heel cup back a little. No toe drag! For my style of riding – groomers, carving, powder, and no park – this board delivers!
Hi Mike
Thanks for the followup. Always great to get feedback and others insights on gear. Awesome that you’re loving your new deck and that the 160 is working well for you!
Hi Nate, love your reviews. Thinking about buying a West Bound 160. I’m 5’10, 175 lbs., Size 11 Thirty-Two Lashed. You think I’ll have any issues with toe drag?
Thanks.
Mike
Hey Nate,
I ride this last weekend for 3 days in Keystone and we got dumped on pretty good all weekend long! This board is an absolute blast to ride! I’ve ridden and owned a Shaper Twin, Proto HD, Proto Type two and a 25. I live the West Bound over all those boards! It’s so effortless to turn yet provides confidence when bombing. I was worried about the ass end washing out like the Shaper Twin did to me but nope, no worries there. I took the PT2 and 25 for comparison and can say I’ll be selling my Type Two. It’s a great board but I don’t ride switch nor park and prefer how the WB rode better. The ripsaw profile of the PT2 I’d describe as “grabby” in comparison to the WB. The 25 was much stiffer and just a bomber, not as fun as the WB. Maybe grab a swift for a dedicated Pow deck in case it gets waist deep but the West Bound is amazing! So happy with it!
Hey Mike
Awesome that you’re digging your WB! A sweet board alright – and a very apt description you’ve given for it.
Hey Nate, what bindings would you pair with the WB? How stiff? Something like the Union Atlas, Atlas FC, Cartel X, Genesis?
Hi Mike
Thanks for your message.
I would go with something around 7/10 to 8/10 flex. So the Atlas could definitely work. The Atlas FC maybe a little stiff, but doable. The Cartel X would be a good match, IMO. The Genesis a little too soft. Also check out:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
Hope this helps