Hello and welcome to my Niche Story snowboard review.
In this review, I will take a look at the Story as an aggressive all-mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Story a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other aggressive all-mountain snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Niche Story 2023
Price: $599
Style: Aggressive All-Mountain
Flex Rating: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Rating Score: 84.2/100
Compared to other Men’s Aggressive All-Mountain Boards
Out of the 19 men’s aggressive all-mountain snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Story’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Story’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | Aggressive All-Mountain |
Price: | $599 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Chattery/Damp: |  |
Smooth/Snappy: |  |
Playful/Aggressive: |  |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | Hybrid Rocker - Niche's "Multi-Camber" |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Setback 20mm (0.75") |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | Felt normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
156 | 258 | not available | n/a |
159 | 262 | n/a | n/a |
162 | 265 | n/a | n/a |
165 | 268 | n/a | n/a |
Who is the Story Most Suited To?
The Story is for anyone who wants an all mountain board but with an aggressive flair to it. It excels best when its carving up groomers or being taken through moderate amounts of powder and even through the park to hit the jumps.
I would recommend the Niche story to anyone who's an upper intermediate to expert rider. It's too aggressive for beginners or newer intermediates.
The Story in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Story is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Niche Story 2022, 156cm (258mm waist width)
Date: March 25, 2022
Conditions
Sunny with clouds. More cloud than blue skies - high cloud. Unlimited visibility.
Temperature: 37°F (3°C)
24hr snow: 0" (0cm)
48hr snow: 0" (0cm)
7 day snow: 27" (69cm)
On groomer: Nicely groomed mid-soft pack. Some glints of slush to start with and then got slushier as the day went on.
Off groomer: A little icy and crunchy to start in spots but not too bad. Got progressively softer.
Set Up
Bindings angles: +12/-9
Stance width: 540mm (21.3″)
Stance Setback: 20mm (0.75")
Width at Inserts: 263mm (10.35") at front insert and 263mm (10.35") at back insert.
Tester: Fraser
Rider Height: 6'1"
Rider Weight: 180lbs
Rider Boot Size: US9.5 Adidas Tactical Lexicon ADV
Bindings Used: Fix Yale: M
Weight: 3040grams (6lbs 11oz)
Weight per cm: 19.49 grams/cm
Average Weight per cm: 18.59 grams/cm*
*based on a sample size of around 200 models that I’ve weighed in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023 models. The Niche Story is heavier than normal on the scales but felt normal on snow.
Powder
Unfortunately we had no powder to test in on the day but looking at the specs, the Story should be decent in powder, without being a high-end powder board.
The hybrid rocker will help give it some float in deeper snow, while the setback stance and directional shape will help sink the tail and keep your nose above the snow, making the board fairly capable in powder.
Carving
The Niche story is fairly aggressive and snappy but doesn't require a ton of effort, making it really enjoyable for both longer and shorter carves. Otherwise felt pretty good for edge-to-edge quickness and held an edge nicely when asked to.
Turning
Ease of Turning/Slashes: Takes some effort to turn/slash pretty but overall it felt comfortable for slashing turns.
Maneuverability at slow speeds: Decent at slower speeds. It never felt washy or catchy but definitely not as fast edge-to-edge at slower speeds.
Skidded: Not amazing for skidded turns as you can feel a bit out of control when in one and it can feel a bit catchy if you're not really on top of your edge.
Speed
The Story doesn't have endless speed but when you get some speed behind it, it does feel pretty damp and stable. I never noticed any chatter or wobble.
Uneven Terrain
Crud: At times the Story could get bucked around in heavy amounts of crud/chunder but it was maneuverable enough to correct. Otherwise handled normal amounts decently.
Bumps: Those extra contact points help you get around bumps/moguls faster but the board had a lot of pop, which sometimes made going through ditches or over bumps a little unpredictable at times.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Jumps
Quite enjoyable on most jumps.
Pop: It has a ton of pop, which at times could almost be overwhelming but once you got used to it and used it to your advantage, it felt great. Good amount easily accessible and then more when you wind it up.
Approach: Felt smooth and controllable on approaches. Made last second adjustments when needed but definitely preferred it on approaches that needed more speed.
Landing: I really enjoyed its stiffness for landings as I found it absorbed them nicely which made them pretty forgiving, especially if you landed to tail heavy.
Side-hits: Enjoyable on most side hits. You don't really have to use much of the pop because when I did I found myself overshooting the landing a bit. But otherwise feels stable and capable on most side hits.
Small jumps/Big Jumps: I have no preference as I really enjoyed it for both.
Switch
Considering its not a true twin and has a bit of a setback stance, it rode switch quite nicely, didn't get a catchy feeling in transition or once riding switch
Spins
Overall good not too difficult to spin around for 180s and 360s and like stated above has good pop. Landing/setting up switch also felt pretty good.
Butters
Not amazing for them as they require some effort but still capable - just really have to distribute your weight and lean into it to initiate them.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
SPEED | 4.0 | 20/25 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 16/20 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 3.5 | 7/10 |
TREES/BUMPS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.2/100 |
Overall, the Story performs well in most places on the mountain but is at its best when you ride it with speed, laying out deep long carves, or when your taking it out on a moderate powder day. You can also rely on it to be pretty capable on most jumps.
Its a go anywhere do anything board but prefers to be done so at an aggressive pace.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the Story, 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 aggressive all-mountain snowboard options, or if you want to compare how the Story compares to other aggressive all-mountain snowboards, then check out the next link.
Hello and welcome to my Niche Story snowboard review.
Hi Nate,
I was wondering if you could help me with picking the right size of this board. I am from Europe and NICHE STORY is quite hard to get here. Right now I was able to find one in 162 cm (20/21 season). I would say I am intermediate/advanced rider with aggressive style. I do love carving, bombing groomers and freeride.
From where I come from we experiance icy conditions a lot, so thats one of the main reasons I am aiming for NICHE board.
I am between 5´ 11 and 6 foot (181 cm to be exact) and I weigh 182 lbs (83 kg).
Since you rode story and do these amazing reviews and a lot more I would love to hear your opinion.
Thanks in advance and thank you for this site.
Ondřej
Hi Ondřej
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I think the Niche Story should work well.
Size-wise, I think the 159 is probably your best bet. 162 bordering on a bit too big, IMO. But if you could also let me know your boot size, that would be great. Boot size is important for sizing as well.
Niche boards are hard to find anywhere right now. I haven’t seen their 2022 models released in many places in North America either yet. I think they’re a bit behind, likely Covid-related, at a guess.
Hope this helps
Yes, they realeased their 21/22 boards few days back. Some info was on Niche’s instagram acc. Covid/shipping related problems…like you said.
Right, I forgot. My boot size is US 11. I want to really minimize the boot overhang for better carving. Thats why I have few doubts about the 159 option. But I am not sure if the difference in width will be more significant than in lenght.
I wrote the reply few hours back and for some reason it did not post, so I hope this one sticks. 😀
NICHE released most of their new boards this week. It has something to do with covid/shipping like you said. They wrote about it on their instagram acc.
And yes, I forgot to mention I have boot size US 11 (28.5 cm foot). I want to minimize the boot overhang to maxime the carving experience. But I am not sure which option will be more significiant in riding experience – longer and wider board in 162 or shorter and narrower in 159. Keeping in mind my preferences and build.
Thanks for the help.
Hi Ondřej
Thanks for the extra info (got your other message too, just needed to be moderated before being published).
With 11s, I get your concern about the 159 being too narrow. And I think, unfortunately it will be too narrow, particularly given that you’re looking to maximize carving. Looking at around 267mm at the inserts on the 159 and 270mm at the inserts on the 162. If you have low profile boots and +15/-15 binding angles or similar, then you might get away with the 159, if you’re not going to be full-on euro carving, but it’s borderline. With straighter binding angles, bulkier boots, and/or a desire to eurocarve, then I think the 159 would be pushing it.
Given your aggressive style, you might get away with 162 in terms of length. I think 159 is the better length for you though.
Yes, it is a damn shame NICHE does not produce 159W.
Anyway, that really helped, THANKS!
One last question.¨
When you try to compare GNU Banked Country 21/22 160W to Niche Story 162. (I read both of your reviews)
Do you think GNU in 160W would better suit my style and build?
Hi Ondřej
Yeah, I think the Banked Country would suit what you’re describing (“aggressive style. I do love carving, bombing groomers and freeride. From where I come from we experience icy conditions a lot”) well. And I think that would be a good size for your specs and your style of riding.
The Banked Country is a little bit stiffer than the Story, by my feel, but only by a little bit – and for your style, I think it should work really well.
Hi Nate,
Just ordered GNU banked country. It’s specs suits me better, like you said.
Thanks a LOT for all the help. Have a good one.
Ondřej
You’re very welcome Ondřej. Hope it treats you well and you like it as much as I did. 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!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your excellent site – it’s been an invaluable resource! I had a sizing question for the Story. I’m 6′, 190 lbs, size 12 boot: ride everything (and a lot of icy East Coast, which is why this seemed a good bet, in addition but to finding a good sale price), but not much freestyle now. Looking for something that can carve hard and charge, manage some powder days, but still playful enough for trees and off-piste hits, natural features, etc. I was wondering if a 159 or 162 would be a better fit for me. I know you mentioned that the sizing is deceptive because of the traction bumps on the waist, and I want to avoid any drag.
Also, if another board comes to mind that you think might be a better fit for me (and my feet size), I’d be curious to hear it: riding switch isn’t important to me, so I’m totally open to a slightly softer freeride board or stiffer all-mountain.
Thanks again!
Hi Evan
Thanks for your message.
Even the 162 might be pushing it as being a bit narrow. As you alluded to, the width at inserts isn’t as wide as you would think, based on the waist width. I would predict on the 162 it would be around 271mm at the inserts, which depending on your make/model of boots, would be roughly total of 6cm of overhang (3cm per foot). You’d get a bit of leeway if you ride with quite a bit of angle on both feet – and with low profile boots, that would certainly help, but I think it’s still pushing it. Length wise, for your specs/what you’re describing, it’s a tight call between 162 and 159 – I would be leaning to 159, but then you would be going even narrower. Not saying it’s undoable, but it would be pushing it, even in the 162.
Some other options worth looking into:
– GNU Antigravity 159W
– GNU Mullair 159W
– Lib Tech Dynamo 159W
– Lib Tech E-Jack Knife 159W
– Never Summer Heritage 159X
– YES Standard 159 (has a similar waist width as the 159 Story, but wider at the inserts – more like 275-276mm at inserts)
– YES Hybrid 161
– YES Pick Your Line 160W
Look more into detail on those to see if they fit what you like, but I think one of those would work well. I have a review for each of those on this site (sorry in a bit of hurry right now, so can’t link to them, but if you search you’ll find them).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
That is deeply helpful! Thanks again for your time, it’s much appreciated, and indeed, it sounds like the Story is a no-go. I read through your reviews of the boards you suggested, and for my style, the PYL and the Mullair are seeming great (and I read your extended comparison of them in comments below one of their reviews, so leaning a bit more towards the PYL). Do you think they would be wide enough for me at size 12 feet? Both the PYL (at 160W) and the Mullair (159W) are 26 cm waist width, which might be too narrow? Based on your advice page about width sizing, it seems like it might be problem. That said, for the Mullair, if I bump up to 161W, it goes to 26.2 and I remain dead center in their weight range.
If they do seem too narrow, I’d be interested in Hybrid, both 26.4. I don’t get to ride as much deep powder as I’d like, being based on the East, and I like to carve, so that’s why I’ve been more drawn to the PYL and Mullair. But if you think the Hybrid 161 would be a blast and hold its edge decently in East Coast ice and groomers, then maybe that’s the one.
Thanks again for your help and have a good one!
Hi Evan
Thanks for narrowing those down. Yeah, a closer look at those sizes and they’ll be pushing it – not overly wide for wide boards. If you were in a low profile boot and angles something like +15/-15, it could be possible, but still risky. In fact the width at inserts would be similar to the Story. 161W Mullair an option, but still only going to be about as wide as the 160W PYL at inserts.
The Hybrid is certainly wider, even more so than the waist width suggests – 277mm at back insert and 283mm at front insert. Should be no issues width-wise for sure. It’s still a good carver, IMO. It’s like a softer, wider PYL. But it’s not super soft by any means – I felt it at around 6/10 in terms of flex, maybe pushing 6.5/10. But yeah both 157 and 161 are wider at inserts vs the PYL 160W, with the 161 overall having more surface area than the 160W PYL and the 157 having slightly less overall surface area (YES only ones I know that publish surface area, which is nice – Never Summer used to, but don’t think they do anymore). Effective edge of the 157 Hybrid is about the same as PYL 160W and 161 has more effective edge, so certainly if you go 161, I don’t think you’d have any issues with laying some hard carves. I rode the 157 and really liked that (6’0″, 185lbs, size 10 boots at time of riding it). I wouldn’t ride the 161, but only because the combination of length and width makes it too big overall for me, but with 12s, it’s not too wide for you (I like to size down if I’m riding something too wide for my boots). I’d even like to try the 153, but I did really enjoy the 157. Hopefully that gives you something to go off for choosing size on the Hyrbid, if you decide to go for that one.
Thanks again, Nate – that’s really helpful! Seems like the PYL and Mullair are indeed not going to work for me. But thinking about the Hybrid, reading your reviews and others, and doing some more research has me thinking that actually, these new generations of more surfy freeride boards might be even a better fit for me. (Carving matters to me, but so does being able to weave into the trees, hit sidehits, search out powder, and still play on natural features, even if I’m not a park guy anymore, and it seems like these can still lay down a carve plenty well.) So the Hybrid may be the best bet: also interested in the Lib Tech BRD 161W, a board I know you haven’t ridden but which seems pretty similar. Either of those would probably be great for me.
One last question: I read through your binding reviews, which were really helpful. If you were going to get a set that would be a good match for a surfier freeride board with medium flex, like the Hybrid of BRD, what would your top pick?
Thanks again for all the amazing advice!
Hi Evan
Yeah like you said, I haven’t ridden the BRD, but likely it would belong to that surfy freeride category, looking at the specs.
In terms of bindings, I would still go at least 6/10 flex for those boards. And up to 7/10. So I think something from one of the following would be a really good fit:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
From the first list, probably between the Strata, Cartel and Lien AT. And then anything really from the second list. Note also that from the second list, I am currently in the process of updating it (the first list already updated for 2021), but all but the Genesis X (which doesn’t have a 2021 model), will be returning for the 2021 list.
For some reason, it wasn’t letting me thread my reply to your last comment. Just wanted to say thanks again, and great binding advice: I’ll be going for the Strata, I think. Have a good one and a great season riding!
Thanks Evan and you’re very welcome. If you think of at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get your setup on snow (and what you end up going with). Happy riding!
Hey Nate, I really dig your in depth reviews. I am currently trying to purchase my second snowboard to progress from intermediate to advanced. I want to be able to ride a little bit of everything with less of a focus on jibbing and more of a focus on speed and being able to progress my carves. I still would like a board that can hit jumps and float decent in powder. i am currently torn between the Niche Story, Jones Frontier, and the GNU riders choice. The Story and Frontier seem pretty similar to me, but I am a little wary of the aggressive magne-traction. I ride in the cascade concrete, but I don’t want a board that’s too grabby when the snow falls. I like what the riders choice has going on, but I don’t want to be stuck in the park. I’d be picking up the 162W Rider’s choice so the flex would be around 6.5 which is comparable to the two other boards mentioned. Thanks for your help!
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
In terms of being grabby in cascade concrete, I would only really be concerned about the Story. The Frontier is good in hard/icy conditions, but doesn’t have the same aggressive kind of magnetraction that the Story does. Both are quite different boards. The Story is a little stiffer, by my feel – around a 7/10 vs the 6.5/10 for the Frontier – so pretty close but different. They also have different camber profiles, are different in terms of effective edge in comparison to overall length, different in terms of width and the Story has some taper, which they Frontier doesn’t – and they both have quite a different feel when riding. They are relatively similar performance-wise, but they certainly aren’t the same board.
The Rider’s Choice, to me feels softer than what it’s rated as – I got more of a 5/10 feel from it (in the 157.5). The 162W will likely feel stiffer, but assuming that’s the size that best suits your weight, it won’t likely feel as stiff as 6.5/10, based on my experience with it, in the past. That said, doesn’t make it a bad choice. It is more freestyle oriented than the other 2, but you certainly wouldn’t be stuck in the park with it. However, I think the other 2 are a little better for carves, powder and speed. The Rider’s Choice is definitely the best for jumps out of the 3 though.
I think of those 3, from what you’re describing, the best choice would be the Frontier as it covers all the bases. The Story does too, it’s just whether or not you think you would get on with the Magnetraction or not.
Size-wise, the Frontier is something you can sometimes ride a little longer, depending on your specs. If you were looking at the 162W Rider’s Choice, then the 164W Frontier, might be the best bet – but if you can let me know your height, weight & boot size, I can give a more accurate opinion on sizing.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate, I am an intermediate rider (1.80m/75kg) and like to freeride but then a bit more aggresive. Which board with be the more suitable one in the Niche product range? I am doubting between Crux and Story. What do you think? Also in terms of size, would the 156 the best option here? Thanks you for helping out!
Hi Jonathan
Thanks for your message.
Further to my reply to your comment on the Crux review.
I think the Story could work for you, if you are more into freeride vs freestyle. Certainly going to give you more in terms of powder vs the Crux. The Story isn’t as aggressive, though it’s stiffer. But the camber profile not as aggressive as on the Crux – or something like the Maelstrom. But it does have that stiffer feel, so that does add to the aggression/how easy it is to ride. I would say you’d want to be a solid intermediate rider for either board.
Size-wise, I think the 156 would probably work best, but the 159 is an option. If you were going to size up to the 159 on either I would be more inclined to size up on the Story – just because there’s less effective edge vs overall length on the Story vs the Crux. But if you could also let me know your boot size that would also help for a sizing recommendation.
But yeah, if you’re wanting something for powder as well, then the Story is probably your best bet, or the Maelstrom, though that’s going a little more advanced again. If not too concerned about powder performance, then the Crux or Aether are your best bets.
Hope this helps
Thanks a lot for your swift reply and advice. My bootsize is 9.5, so therefore I am also leaning towards the 156, as I do not want a board that is too wide for me.
Hi Jonathan
The width on the Story is a little deceiving. Because there’s a traction bump right on the waist, the waist width makes it sound wider than it is. At the inserts the 156 Story is 263mm, which isn’t that much wider than it’s 258mm waist width (and in a good range for width for 9.5 boots, IMO). That said, if you go up to the 159, you’re looking at more like 267-268mm at the inserts, which is getting wide for 9.5s.
The Crux is different in that sense, with the 156 having a greater difference between waist and inserts (265mm at the inserts and 254mm at the waist). But again, going up to 159 would be getting quite a bit wide too – around 267-268mm at the inserts there.
So yeah, I would be leaning 156 for both for you, as well.
Thanks a lot for the advice! I will probably also have to upgrade binding wise. On my current board I have K2 Sonic, but for the Niche I was thinking of Union bindings. For instance the Strata or the Atlas. What is your opinion? And size wise, would a M suffice? Do you also have other recommendations for bindings that would go well with this board?
Hi Jonathan
Yeah, from the Sonic, upgrading would be a good idea, IMO.
For the Story, from Union, the Strata, Atlas and Falcor would be the most suitable. The Falcor perhaps the best match, in terms of flex. But the Atlas and Strata would definitely work too.
Size-wise, with 9.5s, I would go with M for sure. I wouldn’t go large Unions with 9.5s.
You could also check out the following for some other options:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
How would you compare this to the capita mercury? I use the mercury as my daily driver but looking for something that carves better. Saw the Niche Maelstrom as well but that might be similar to a flagship?
Hi Murtuza
I found the Story and Mercury to be equally good for carving. But I liked the Mercury for carving. Sometimes it depends on the rider too – you might prefer the Story on a carve, but personally I thought they were as good as each other. They both have a different feel overall, but on a carve I liked them equally.
To get a step up for carving, the Maelstrom is certainly a step up, IMO (I rate it 4.5/5 for carving). Whilst I would categorize it in the same category as the Flagship (Freeride), I wouldn’t say it was that similar to it in feel. But if you already have a Flagship, I wouldn’t get the both within the same quiver. They would be too similar for that IMO.
If you’re looking for something more all-mountain for better carving, I would look at the following:
>>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards
Or if you wanted to go more freestyle oriented, then:
>>Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hi Nate, thinking this might be the board for me but looking for a second opinion.
Looking to upgrade from my Rossi One Magtek to something a little more aggressive and carvy but need good edge hold for northeast conditions and needs to be nimble enough to work in the trees when conditions permit. I have a pow board so this would be my daily driver for northeast resort riding with friends and fam.
Me: 6’2″, 200 lbs, advanced rider. No more park but do like to pop off the odd roller and side hit.
Boards that I’ve been considering:
Niche Story, Gnu Mullair or Billy Goat, Yes Pick Your Line, Libtech EJack Knife but definitely open to other ideas.
Thanks!
Hi George
Thanks for your message.
Based on what you’re describing, I think that’s a good list of options – and all are more aggressive than the Rossi One, IMO. The least more aggressive would be the Story, but still a little more aggressive than the Rossi One. And they’re all good in hard/icy conditions, so it looks like you’ve done your research there for sure.
I would say that the Rossi One is a little more nimble at slow speeds vs the Story, but the Story isn’t far off. Doesn’t turn like a boat or anything when riding slower. It’s nice and quick edge-to-edge when riding a little faster. The PYL I found surprisingly agile at slower speeds – as good as the Rossi One and the Mullair and Billy Goat Similar in that sense. The Ejack Knife not quite as agile as the PYL/Mullair.
The Billy Goat is behind, in terms of powder vs the other options, but since you have a powder board already, that’s probably not a big deal.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thanks Nate, how much of a leap is it from the Rossi One to the PYL or Mullair? Would you recommend one over the other for icy conditions? Priorities are (in order): carving groomers, tight tree runs, stability at speed, and of course – excellent edge hold.
Thanks again.
Hi George
It’s a noticeable step up for sure, but it’s a step up I think you would be fine with as an advanced rider, looking for something more aggressive. They’re not like the stiffest, most aggressive boards going around or anything. They’re a nice step up, IMO.
In terms of edge hold in icy conditions, they’re both very close, IMO. I couldn’t pick which is better. If i had to say, maybe slightly towards the Mullair, but there’s very little in it, if anything, IMO.
For carving I would go just slightly with the Mullair. Again very little in it, and I loved carving on both of these boards, but just by a hair to the Mullair (I rate the Mullair 5/5 for carving and the PYL 4.5/5 for carving).
For stability at speed nothing in it, IMO.
PYL over the Mullair in powder. I know you didn’t mention powder, but if you’ve got powder in the trees, that’s a factor.
I would say very similar in terms of tight tree runs. Both I found surprisingly nimble at slower speeds for their flex. I would say however, that I preferred the PYL in uneven terrain vs the Mullair, so gotta take that into account for trees too, if there’s no powder, right.
Hope this gives you more to go off.
Hi Nate,
First, I’d like to thank you for your reviews. They have been very helpful for me while I’m searching for a new snowboard for this upcoming season.
Second, I was seriously looking to purchase the 2019 Niche Story, however, after looking at some of the comments I think the width might be an issue for me. I am 6’3 and 225lbs with a size 14 boot.
I was wondering if you had any recommendations for myself that would be appropriate for my size? The Niche Story seemed to be perfect because it was all-mountain and seemed to do everything I enjoy. I’m not a big freestyle snowboarder, more of an all-mountain/freeride snowboarder. I’m looking for something that would be more forgiving as I’m getting older, and thought the Niche Story was the perfect fit. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated if you get the chance.
Thanks!
Hi Dane
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, even though the Story sounds reasonably wide when looking at the waist width, it’s not that wide at the inserts. Too narrow for 14s, for sure, IMO.
The Nitro Team Gullwing is the first board in my head after reading your comments. It’s different to the Story for sure, but does have quite a few similities – like the Hybrid rocker profile, but still being quite stable feeling for a Hybrid Rocker. The Gullwing is slightly softer flexing, but still around 6/10, by my feel. Definitely forgiving enough, but without being overly soft/playful. Maybe not as freeride oriented as the Story (less directional) but still not overly freestyle focused either. And the wide sizes it comes in are decently wide, good for accommodating that 13+ boot range, IMO. I think the 165W would be a good size for your specs, and is likely to have a width around 282mm at the inserts. That’s in contrast to the Story 165, which is likely to be around 273mm at the inserts – so quite a significant difference.
Another really good option, and what I would term a freeride board, so even more freeride focused than the Story, is the Never Summer Westbound. It’s about the same level of stiffness as the Story and a super fun board and more forgiving than the average freeride board. Only thing would be sizing. There’s the 165X which would be a good length for you, IMO. The width at inserts would be around 278mm, so just a little narrower than the Team Gullwing and perhaps pushing it for 14s. That said, if you’ve had a narrower board than that before and been OK, then that’s definitely an option. The other option is the 160DF. The DF stands for drag free – so in other words really wide. The 160 has a 284mm waist width and likely around 294, 295mm at the inserts, depending on stance width. I would say that’s the safest bet width-wise, but whether you’ll find that 160 length too short is the only thing. Being that wide, sizing down just a touch, is probably fine, but sizing that much down, might be too much. Again, if you’re used to or prefer riding shorter boards, and you’re used to something around that 160 length, then it becomes an option.
Thank you, Nate! I appreciate the in-depth response. I think I’m leaning towards the Nitro Team Gullwing after reading your response/reading your reviews on it. Thanks again!
You’re very welcome Dane. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hey Nate,
Looking at the Niche story and it seems like it has a wide width. I’m 6’3″ 195 lbs and wear a 13 boot. Would the 162 be a good size in this board for me, or should I check something else out?
Thanks!
East coast riding, and typically hitting groomers, uneven snow, occasional icy conditions, and powder. Previous board was am 162W Ride Antic from I think 2010
Hi Jordan
Apart from the width, I think everything else about this board would work well from what you’re describing. However, what I’ve noticed with a lot of Niche boards, is that the width at the waist isn’t much narrower than the width at inserts. This is because there is usually a big magnetraction bump at the waist, which makes it sound wider than it is. For example I rode the 2020 Niche Story 156 last winter, which has a waist width of 258mm. The width at inserts was only 263mm (only 5mm wider than the waist, which is a small difference compared to the normal.
So, I would guess that the 162 would be around 270mm at the inserts (265mm waist) or maybe 271mm – given a wider stance width.
Estimating roughly a 34cm length for your boots (taking 31cm as the Mondo and adding 3cm – which is about average in terms of outersole length above the mondo), then you’re looking at close to 7cm overhang (with boots straight across board) – or 3.5cm per edge. That’s more than I would be comfortable with personally. A bit more leeway depending on binding angle, but it would still be pushing it, IMO. With a low profile boot, you’d have a better chance, but even then it’s pushing it a little. But if you wanted to measure your boot, you could a more accurate measurement. But based on the info, my opinion is that it’s not quite wide enough for your boots.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
I can confirm. My newly-imported Story 162 is 271mm at the inserts. In stance, my Salomon size 11 boots overhang 2.6 cm on both toe side and heel side, which is a lot more than I’d like. So the marketed waist width was misleading in my case. I may have to see what I can get at resale here in Japan lol
Hi Nick
Thanks for the confirmation on the 162 – good to know.
Hello,
I am needing some help choosing between two boards (and open to suggestions on other boards).
Me: 5′ 10″ 215 lbs athletic build (lifter) 10.5 shoe
Currently have
Rossignol Circuit Amptek Snowboard
Now IPO Bindings.
Thirty Two Lashed Double BOA boots.
I live on the east coast and board 6-8 weekends a year here. Snowshoe will be the most this year as we have the IKON pass.
Spending a week in Aspen next Feb. and spent a week in Summit County this past Feb boarding Abasin, Loveland, & Copper.
I am looking at the Niche Story, and the Never Surrender Proto 2
This will be my 4 year riding, and I am still very much a beginner – intermediate. On a good powder day I’ll run the blacks, but most of my riding is on the blue (as of last year). We did love the black tree runs at Abasin last year on a good powder day though.
Just started playing the park hitting smaller jumps, boxes, etc. Not sure I have the guts to try riding rails.
I do like riding semi-fast and working on carving hard. Still learning how to butter well, etc.
Any recommendations on which board? I already have a 159 Niche Story on the way, but can return it to REI without issue.
Thanks!!!
Hi Dallas
Thanks for your messages.
The Niche Story is a really good do-it-all kind of a board, so it’s got that covered for you. My only thing is whether it could be a touch stiff to be ideal, given high-end beginner/low end intermediate level, if I have that correct? Riding the 2020 Niche Story it feels a bit stiffer than I remember it, so will likely increase my flex rating to at least 6.5/10 and maybe 7/10, when I update this review. But that would be the only thing, otherwise sounds like it would suit your purposes very well.
The Never Summer PT2 would also work well for most of what you’re describing, but my biggest thing would be in powder. It’s not great in powder, so, if you’re OK with the flex of the Story, then that’s the one out of the two I would go with, since it sounds like you’ve really been getting into powder.
IF you wanted to check out some other options, I think the boards in the following list would be the best to look at, from what you’re describing:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Or if you were looking for something a little more beginner friendly (though most on that all-mountain list should be fine for intermediate level, but the next list better for high-end beginners):
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thank you! Sorry about the double post! I didn’t see it post the first time and thought I messed up.
You’re very welcome. And no worries!
Hello,
Wanted to know if you could give some advice on this board vs another board?
I am looking at the 159 Story.
I am 5′ 10″ 215lbs 10.5 shoe
Riding with NOW IPO bindings and ThiryTwo lashed Double Boa boots.
I am still very much a beginner/intermediate. This will be my 4th season boarding.
I live on the east coast and will board SnowShoe alot, but have a week planned at Snowmass in Feb of next year.
This past year we spent a week in Summit County and boarded Abasin, Loveland and Copper. At the end of the trip on powder days we were doing black tree runs and having a blast. Did some some park jumps and boxes too, and would like to progress there as well
Also really like going fast and carving. Looking for a board that can “do it all” but know it won’t be a master of any.
Would the 159 Story be good for this, or would the Never Surrender Proto II be better? (Of if you have any other suggestions).
Thanks!
Hi, i weight about 73 kg ( i am from Germany by the way 😁).
Would the 156 fit good for me?
And why is the story better in powder than the aether?
Ist it because of the setback and the flex? because the shapes are similiar i think.thanks and greets
Hi Matze
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, the 156 is likely the best option, but if you could also let me know your height, boot size, ability level and how you like to ride (freestyle? freeride? trees? a bit of everything? Aggressive? Playful? etc) – that would help to make a more accurate recommendation.
The Story looks to have a similar shape to the Aether at first glance, but they’re different in a few ways. The Story has a longer nose than tail and is also tapered (narrower tail than nose), whereas the Aether is more twin. Though it is now directional twin – so I will likely up it’s powder score to 3 when I review the scores for the 2020 models. I accidentally left this rating there from when it was true twin. But even saying that the Story is considerably more directional – and, like you say, has that setback stance too. All of that makes it a little better for powder. Of course if you like to ride switch in powder that changes – but the powder ratings are for one direction powder riding.
Hope this helps
Hi, first of all thanks for the answer.i am 1,85cm, boot size euro 44/us 10. I am an intermediate Level Rider. I like to ride smooth most of the time but Sometimes also little bit agressive.but not very much.i like to ride everything, but most of the time its gonna be Piste.but since last year i am more focussed on freeride or lets say fresh Powder besides piste.not that first Line Powder on a Virgin Mountain where no one was before if you know what i mean 😁.
So i am searching for a Board thats good for my Riding style and also has good edge hold in icy conditions.
Thats all for the Moment 😀.
Thanks
Hi Matze
It’s a tough call between the 156 and 159 but I would be slightly leaning towards the 156 for you still. At 185cm, the stance width can come into play, but the 560mm reference stance on the Story is the same for all 3 sizes, so I don’t think that’s really going to be an issue with going for the 156 – and I think it’s better suited for your weight and style. You could certainly get on with both sizes but I’m leaning towards the 156. But a few more things to help you make your decision.
1. The 156 will be more maneuverable at slower speeds, better in trees, better for freestyle and a little more playful, and feel a little softer flexing
2. The 159 will be a little better in powder, more stable at higher speeds and a little more suited to long arcing carves
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
Thanks for a great review! I’d say I’m in the intermediate advanced level and am eyeing another board. I was thinking maybe I’ll go with a directional powder board but I don’t want to feel restricted in enjoying only when there’s a dump. Then I came across the Niche Story, I haven’t found a place in town with the board so couldn’t check it out first hand but I was wondering what size you think would be best for someone 5’8″, 175 lbs. is the 159 too long or wide and does the 156 have a proper effective edge? Thanks
Hi Neil
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing/your specs, I would say the 156 is probably the best bet for you. But the 159 would offer a little more in terms of powder and stability at speed if they were your main concerns. The effective edge on the 156 is around average for that length board, for an all-mountain type board. I would personally say the 159 is a little long for you as a daily driver. If you were going to use it predominantly for powder and bombing, then it would be doable.
In terms of width, if you can let me know your boot size and I can give you an indication of width from my opinion.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am 5′ 10” and weigh around 130lbs. do you think I might be too light for this board or does it’s softness make up for it?
Best greetz
Nico
I got it wrong. I am more of 138lbs. ^^
Hi
I would still say the 156 is too long.
Hi Nico
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, unfortunately I reckon the 156 (the shortest size this comes in) is a bit too long for you. And it’s not that soft. In fact, I will probably be upping the flex on this to 6.5 or even 7, when I update the review for the 2020 model. I rode it again last weekend and it feels a little stiffer than 6/10. If there was a 153, I think that would be a good size for you (depending on ability level).
But if you are used to riding significantly stiffer boards, and are used to riding boards as long as 156 or longer, then let me know and I can reassess, but otherwise, I think the 156 will be too long for you.
Hope this helps
Nate,
Had been thinking about the NS West, but now considering the Niche because it seems it might be better at speed. Thoughts? Its ice worthiness isn’t as much of a concern for me because I mostly ride out west.
Hi Stephen.
Further to my reply to your other comment:
I would say that the Story and West are fairly similar when it comes to speed. Both are very good at speed, IMO, without being out and out bombers either.
And even though it’s a couple of mms wider at the waist, vs the 160X west, based on other Niche boards I’ve ridden, the 162 Story is likely actually a little narrower. They have a big magnetraction bump at the waist which makes the board sound wider than it is, just when looking at the waist width. But width at inserts, at a guess, would be a little narrower than the West 160X.
Hope this helps
I’m 145lbs and 5′ 6″. I know they do not offer any sizes under 156 for the niche story but would it possible for me to ride 156 story or would niche aether and niche theme be a better option?
Hi Dennis
I think the 156 is probably getting a bit long for you. If you’re an advanced rider, then I think you could certainly ride something up to around a 154 for this type of board – but ideally around 152, for your height and weight. Of course some of length sizing is down to personal preference, but I think generally 156 is going to feel long for you.
The other thing with the Story (and other Niche boards) is that it has a wider width than your average snowboard – so that extra width combined with that length, I think that’s a lot of board for your specs.
The Aether is the next closest thing to the Story in the Niche line, if you’re keen to go for a Niche board, then I think that would be your best bet – it’s going to be a bit of a different ride to the story though – a little softer flexing and more freestyle oriented all-round. You’d gain in terms of riding switch and jibbing but loose a bit in terms of powder.
If you went Aether, then the 153 would be your best option. It may still be slightly on the wide side depending on your boot size? but not as wide and not as long as the 156 Story, so you’re getting a better size there.
The Theme is a little more different from the Story than the Aether. If you did want to go with the Theme, then there’s a 152. There’s also a 149 – which would be a better size if you were more of a beginner or beginner bordering on intermediate rider.
Hope this helps