Hello and welcome to my Rossignol One Magtek review.
In this review, I will take a look at the One Magtek (now called One LF) as an all-mountain snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the One LF a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other all-mountain snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: Rossignol One LF
Price: $499 (USD recommended retail)
Style: All-Mountain
Flex Rating: Medium-Stiff (7/10) – according to Rossignol
Flex Feel on Snow: Medium (6/10)
Rating Score: 87.8/100
Compared to other Men’s All-Mountain Boards
Out of the 35 men’s all-mountain snowboards that I rated:
- The average score was 80.4/100
- The highest score was 92.7/100
- The lowest score was 64.0/100
- The average price was $481 (USD)
- The One LF ranked 6th out of 35
Overview of the One Mag’s Specs
Check out the tables for the One Mag’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
| Style | All-Mountain | Flex | Medium (6 out of 10) |
| Ability Level | Intermediate to Expert | Feel | Stable |
| Weight | Normal bordering on heavy | Turn Initiation | Medium-Fast |
| Camber Profile | Hybrid Camber | Shape | Directional Twin |
| Stance Setback | 12.5mm (0.5") | Edge-hold | Icy snow |
| Price | $499 (USD) | Base | Sintered (7500) |
Sizing
| Size (Length) | 153 | 156 | 157W | 159 | 161W | 165W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waist Width (mm) | 250 | 252 | 264 | 254 | 266 | 268 |
| Weight Range (lbs) | 120-165 | 130-175 | 130-180 | 140-200 | 150-210 | 175+ |
| Weight Range (kgs) | 55-75 | 60-80 | 60-82 | 65-90 | 70-95 | 80+ |
Who is the One Mag Most Suited to?
The One Magtek is best suited to anyone looking for a one-quiver board. It can ride the park, the backcountry and the groomers and you can ride how you want to wherever it is you’re riding.
I would say it’s leaning more towards the freeride side of things than freestyle but you can definitely still take it in the park (better for jump line that jib line).
If you ride in hard and icy conditions, this board will be your hero!
Not a beginner board but definitely fine for an intermediate rider that has their basic turns mastered. A great board to get after you’re past the beginner stage and want a board that will stay with for as long as you want it.
Ideal Rider: Someone who rides in hard/icy conditions a lot, wants one board to do everything and is intermediate or up.
The One Mag in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the One Magtek is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: Rossignol One Magtek 2018, 159cm (254mm waist width)
Date: April 9, 2017 (initially – then various other dates as I now own this board)
Conditions: Mix of sun and cloud. 100% visibility all day. Snow was perfect for demoing – soft packed most places some powder to be found and some harder spots too. Not slushy which is rare this time of year. Quite cold too, especially first thing in the morning. PLUS various conditions.
Bindings: Flux DS 2016 + various other bindings as I use this board to demo bindings on.
Bindings angles: +15/-15 + other
Flex
Rossignol rate this as a 7/10 but they tend to rate stiffer than what their boards are in reality (in my opinion).
The One Magtek feels more like a 6 at most – maybe more like 5.5/10. It’s softer on the tip and tail, so buttering is easy but stiffer between the feet.
Powder
The float in powder is awesome – when it comes to powder this board almost feels like a freeride board – all be it a bit softer flexing/more forgiving.
It’s got rocker tip and tail and a bit of setback (12.5mm) so those things certainly help with that float, but it just feels even better than those stats would suggest.
Carving & Turning
This board is like the perfect mix of being able to lay into a carve but also be forgiving enough that you can still skid turns when you need to, when you’re getting lazy or if that’s the level you’re at.
Definitely the right mix for an all mountain board – it’s forgiving and easy enough to ride but you can also get a good carve going.
Speed
This board is pretty fast and feels really damp. Very little chatter at speed and feels very stable. A very smooth ride.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Uneven Terrain
Feels really damp going through chunder and generally handles bumpy and uneven terrain really well.
Jumps
This board is fun to jump on. Not the poppiest board that I’ve ridden – but it’s great for landings, including landing switch and was great for the approach – whether for jumps in the park or natural hits on the rest of the mountain.
Because it’s not the poppiest and it’s a little heavier than the average board, it doesn’t make it the springiest/snappiest going around.
Switch
With a 12.5mm setback and a not true-twin shape, it’s never going to be ideal riding switch, but it’s definitely something you ride switch and land switch on and once you get used to it you should be able to do it almost as well as you can on a centered true twin.
Jibbing
It doesn’t make the jib-line a no-go zone. I feel comfortable enough hitting jibs on it, but it’s not ideal. It’s certainly not terrifying approaching jibs on it – but this is probably the weakest point of this board.
Pipe
It’s great in hard/icy conditions, it’s fast and it’s going to be a pretty fun board in the pipe for those that ride the pipe.
Changes from the 2018 Model
As far as I can tell the 2019 model is the same as the 2018 (and 2017 and 2016) – only the graphic has changed.
Changes from the 2017 Model
This is the same board, essentially as the 2017 model. Only the graphic has changed. I think it’s still the same since the 2016 model even (they made a few upgrades between the 2015 and 2016 models). When you’ve got a winning formula, stick with it until you can find a way to improve it.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| Powder: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Carving: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Speed: | 4.0 | 12/15 |
| Uneven Terrain: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Switch: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Jumps: | 3.0 | 6/10 |
| Jibbing: | 3.0 | 6/10 |
| Pipe: | 4.0 | 8/10 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 87.8/100 |
This is one smooth ride – feels very smooth and very damp. But it’s still pretty fast edge to edge. It may not be as lively/poppy as some others but it’s just so nice and smooth to ride. Just felt effortless and very little chatter, even when really getting it up to speed or in chunder.
And you can definitely still take it through the park. It can definitely be used for that.
The float in powder was awesome and man, how it rides in hard and icy conditions! It just gave me so much confidence to just ride like I would in nice soft conditions. It just gripped so well and felt so right on hard and icy snow.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you want to learn more about the One Magtek, are ready to buy or want to research current prices and size availability, check out the links below.
If you want to check out other all-mountain options or want to compare the One Mag to other all-mountain boards, check out the next link.
Hi Nate,
What would be a good size for this board for all around riding? 153cm or 156cm? I weigh 150-155lbs with size 9 boots. Thanks.
Hi AB
Thanks for your message. So I can give a more accurate recommendation, can you also let me know your height and your rough ability level.
Hi, I’m like that last guy weighs 155 lbs and 5’7″ tall, shoe size 9″, would also like to know whether I should get the 153cm or 156cm for this board. Keep in mind I’ve already got a Never Summer West 156cm for all mountain/freeride purpose, and I’m considering the Rossignol One Magtek as a all mountain/freestyle board, in that regard is it recommended to for with the shorter 153m? Thanks!
Hi Steve
Yeah since you already the 156 West, I’d definitely go for the 153cm for this if you’re using as alll-mountain-freestyle.
However, since you already have the all-mountain board, if I was you I would go for an all-mountain freestyle snowboard (I would consider the One Mag as a board in the same category as the west). Check out the link below if you want to get an idea of some great all-mountain-freestyle decks.
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
But yeah, definitely 153cm if you do go for the One Mag.
Thank you for getting back to me sir. I am about 5′-8″ and high intermediate. I don’t venture into the park but I prefer the freestyle side of things when riding (180’s, 360’s, working on improving switch riding at the moment). Currently I’m on 154cm YES Greats, Proto HD, and Brainstorm. Thanks again.
Hi AB
I think the 156cm would be a good choice for you. If it was going to be your only board, then I think that maybe the 153cm – just because you like spins and that can certainly be easier with a little shorter length – but assuming you’ll be keeping at least one of your 154s, then the 156 would be a different length and I think a good length for you for an all mountain ride.
It will be more difficult for spins but it will be better for speed, better for carves and float better in powder than the 153.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks. I will consider the 156. I will be taking this to Japan in January so I hope this can perform in the powdwr as well. Thanks for your help.
You’re very welcome. I found the Rossi One to be very good in powder, so should definitely be fun in Japan!
HI Nate,
awesome website, really! Very professional! 2 lengths of the 2017 versionare on sale: 153 or 157W.
I weight 160-165 lbs, are 5.10 inches tall and wear boot size 9 (27,00 cm measured).
My preferred style is carving, but I don’t deny to improve my freestyle and powder skills, and it seems that in between – 156 or 159 – is nothing left around Europe, where I’m from (Italy – East Alps).
Is there a chance that one of those 2 available lengths could fit me, considering that I would use just this board? Many thanks in advance for replying.
Hi Claudio
Unfortunately neither of those sizes would be ideal for you. I would say that either the 156 or 159 would work best. 159 would be the better choice, if you were thinking mostly carving, powder, speed. But if you wanted a bit more of an all-round ride and include more freestyle, then the 156. Also if you are a more advanced rider, then I’d be leaning more towards the 159 but if you’re more of an intermediate rider then the 156.
But the 153 is too short for you in my opinion. And the 157W would be too wide for your boot size. Sorry I don’t have a more positive answer but I don’t think it’s worth getting a board that’s not going to be a good fit size-wise. Otherwise, this board sounds like it would suit what you’re looking for – but it’s important to get it in an appropriate size and unfortunately neither of those two sizes are, IMO.
Dear Nate,
thank you very much for your comprehensive reply. In the meantime I’ve found a 156 size of the
Rossignol One Magtek I was looking for (never say never!!) and since I’m more an intermediate than an expert rider, I’m quite sure this is the right board to enhance my performances. Bindings would be K2 Lien AT. What do you think about my it?
Hi Claudio
I think that sounds perfect. I’d go for the 156. And the Lien ATs will work well with that board. The ATs are unique in that they have pods that you can place in the footbed that stiffen and soften the flex of the bindings slightly. I would start out with the softer pods with those. But overall that sounds like a great setup and I think the 156 is a good size for you.
HI Nate,
thanks a lot for your suggestions. I appreciate it very much and I’ll go for it.
So, until next time, dear Nate, and many greetings from the beautiful Dolomites.
Thanks Claudio and you’re very welcome! Hope you enjoy your new board and the upcoming season!
Dear Nate,
unfortunately, the Rossignol ONE 156 Magtek isn’t available anymore. May I consider the Salomon Man’s Board 159 as an alternative? I already know that this choice is an aggressive AM, but considering the options of carving and speed, I would take the available 159 with the K2 Lien AT bindings.
Hi Claudio
My concern is that the Man’s Board could be a little aggressive for you. Looking back on your previous comments – for your height/weight and as an intermediate level rider, then 159 would the longest I would put you on I think – but since the Man’s Board is quite aggressive and relatively stiff, I think you would have a reasonably hard time riding that length for that particular board. Particularly for improving your freestyle skills, I think it would be very tricky and probably not that fun. You’d probably get used to it for carving but I think you’d struggle with anything freestyle on that board.
I know it’s hard when there isn’t that much available but I want to give you my honest opinion. I would be happy to assess the other options that you have, if you were able to give me a short list – but I think this particular board ins’t right for you.
Hi Nate,
thanks for your sincere opinion, I really appreciate it, The alternative boards I took into consideration are Jones “Explorer” 2018 cm 157 and Yes “The Standard” 2018 cm 153 or 157, both with K2 “Lien AT” bindings, but not for this Winterseason, probably, since there are still too expensive for my pocket and 2017 models aren’t available anymore.
The immediate option would be Rossignol “AV Magtek” 2017 cm 159 or 163, with Salomon Quantum bindings. This board would suit my hard Carving skllls and give me the opportunity to improve in Powder. Second choice; Jones “Pick your line” 2017 159 cm.
What do you think about it?
Hi Nate,
OK, got it. My options are JONES Mountain Twin 157 with K2 Lien AT bindings or Rossignol XV 159 or 163 with Salomon Quantum bindings.
I know that the Rossignol is a freeride board, without park features, but it must be great on powder and carving. Probably the Mountain Twin is more all mountain and would do it very well on icy groomers and powder too. Right?
Hi Claudio
Yeah the XV is a freeride board and probably more advanced. I think I like the 157cm Mountain Twin would be a great option for you based on everything. And it’s the most similar to the Rossignol One that we discussed in earlier comments.
The YES Standard is also a good option. For the 2018 model however, I don’t think there’s really a good size option for you. For the 2017 model, the 156cm would have been a great size for you. But the 2018 156cm is a bit wider and probably a bit too wide for your boots. The 153 has a better width but it’s getting a bit shorter.
The Explorer is also an option for you and the 156cm would be the best size for that board.
The XV is actually really good in icy conditions but I just think it’s a bit too advanced and too stiff for you at this stage. I would be worried that it would be a difficult board for you to control and therefore not be that much fun for you.
The Mountain Twin is a really good all-rounder that can ride well in the powder and carve well, but it can still butter and ride the park.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
thank you very much for the comprehensive and precious response given. It definitely helps! I will follow your advice and choose among the boards you recommended.
You’re very welcome. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate,
I am looking at last year’s One Magtek vs the new 2018 One LF Magtek. Not sure if buying the discounted last years model is worth saving $150. Is there Really that much difference to make up for the cost? Also: i am 6′ 185lbs size 10-10.5 foot size (Not sure what my boots are). Would the 159cm standard, not wide be a good fit? I do some POW but mostly groomers in sometimes icy conditions. Thanks!
Marv
Hi Marv
I would get last years if you can get it in your size. When I demoed the 2018 One, the Rossi rep said that it’s exactly the same board as the 2017 model – just with a slightly different name (Rossignol One LF vs Rossignol One Magtek) and a different graphic.
It does look like they might have changed the base from a 4400 sintered to a 7500 sintered base – but I think it’s highly unlikely you’d notice any difference there. You might notice the difference between an extruded and sintered but in this case it’s very minor and unlikely you’d notice it at all. I don’t even know what the difference is.
The 159 would be a great size for you in my opinion. I am pretty much the same specs as you and the 159 is my size of choice for the One. The only thing would be if you ended up in 10.5 boots and if you have binding angles with a very straight back foot – then you might be pushing it on the regular width. But If you get in a 10, any binding angles should be fine and if you get in a 10.5, then as long as you have some angle on that back foot (i.e. not like 0 degrees, or 3 degrees or something), then you will also be good on the regular. If you do have quite a straight back foot and end up in 10.5s you’d probably still get away with it, but it would be riskier.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I don’t think there’s anyone in any sport giving such detailed advice as yours. Thanks for that.
Found a 2016 One Magtek 157W and a 159cm. Trying to decide which is the best fit for me.
I am 5’11;
boots size 11.5;
about 185 lbs dressed up with boots, jacket and helmet.
Intermediate rider, sold my previous board 6 years ago, so a bit out of practice. Been kitesurfing these years(in wide Freestyle boards). I will mostly in icy East Coast conditions. Might ride in powder once or twice this year. No plans to hit the pipes or any tricks. Just plain free ride and occasional ollies. Probably some snowkiteboarding too, which really doesn’t require much of the board.
Thank very much!
Jay
Hi Jay
Thanks for the message.
I think the 157W is going to be the best size there for you. The 159 is going to be a bit risky in terms of being a bit too narrow for 11.5s. 159 would be a good length for you, but the extra width in the 157W will make up for dropping those couple of cms. Also, as an intermediate rider, taking off a couple of cms in length doesn’t hurt either.
Rossi One definitely a good choice for icy conditions, in my experience.
Snowkiteboarding sounds epic! Can’t give any advice there, unfortunately! But sounds awesome.
Thanks very much! Should I be concerned about my weight, considering the size chart says the 157w is up to 180lbs?
I hope you get to try snowboarding soon. I’m sure you will like it and that it will be easy for you!
Hi Jay
I wouldn’t worry about the weight recommendations too much – Rossignol, I find especially tend to be on the light side. Also, weight recommendations are for your weight without gear, so I’d say without gear you’d be pretty close to that 180 anyway.
Hey Nate, great thorough review.
I am a hair under 6’1″ and 185 lbs, size 11 boots. Do you think I can get by on the 159 or do I need to look for the 161w (seems harder to find)?
I am an intermediate older (50+) rider who likes to carve groomers, no parks, no jumps. I’ve been riding an ancient 2007 Burton Air 165 and ready to modernize. It was down to the One or the Jones Explorer (figured the Flagship was a bit out of my league).
Because I used to use a carving board/hardboot comb, I’ve kept my stance 45 degrees front and 15 degrees rear. I’d like to go more perpendicular, but can angle if you think necessary to keep toes from catching.
Any advice is welcome. Thanks again!
Kip
Hi Keith
Thanks for your message.
I think it would be tight getting on the 159, but doable. Usually I would say that (with back foot at 15 degrees) that you could go down to as narrow 254mm waist width. But if you really like to get up on your edges and do deep carves, then I would try to add at least 2mm there. So, I guess it depends on how aggressively you like to carve. If it’s not too aggressive, then I’d say you should be fine on the 159 – otherwise, the 161W would be necessary.
In terms of binding angles, I would definitely recommend bringing that front foot around a bit. Since you’re used to 45 degrees, maybe try bring it around to something like 24 degrees, rather than something like 15 degrees. But I would bring it around a little bit anyway. If you do decide to go for the 159, I wouldn’t change the back foot though – as the board is likely too narrow for 11s on anything but a 15 degree rear binding angle. If you were on the 161W, you could have your back foot as straight as you wanted.
Hope this helps
meant 22.5 degree front foot angle obviously (not 45!) Thanks
Hi Kip
I did think 45 was quit extreme! But some racers do ride with that angle.
In that case, you could try coming around to a +15/-15 duck – or you could stick with a bit more of an angle on the front foot – 21 degrees maybe – if that felt more comfortable. Like I said on my last post, if you go for the 159, I wouldn’t straighten the back foot at all, but if you go for the 161W, then you could do anything you wanted with your back foot. Just note that the 161W would be quite wide for 11s, if you do stick with a 15 degree angle on the back foot.
Hi Nate,
Also to say great site and reviews :), thanks for it.
Double check – I am thinking about One LF 159cm where I am 6.1in (184 cm), 180-185lb (90-92kg) and boot size 10.5. Based on what you previously wrote that should match but just to check what do you think 🙂
Btw. I am advanced rider looking to improve :).
Thx and regards from Germany,
Oliver
Btw. Second option is Yes Typo so I am between one of those two. Any preference?
Hi Oliver
I have the 159 Rossi One and I feel it’s just right for me. I’m 6″0, 185lbs and size 10, so pretty similar specs, so I think the 159 would work well for you too. You could go a little bit longer than that if you wanted to but for the One you’d have to go to a wide or go to 165, so I think the 159 is definitely the best option.
But just to double check your boot size – are they US10.5 or UK10.5 – if they’re US10.5 you should be fine on the 159 width-wise. If you have quite a flat back foot (i.e. 0 degrees or 3 degrees) then you might be pushing it to squeeze on there but should still be ok. If by 10.5 you mean UK10.5, then you will be better off going for the 161W.
Hope this helps
Oh yeah and the Typo.
The Typo is a little softer, less setback and just a little bit more freestyle oriented than the Rossi One. So, if you do a lot of riding switch, jumps, park but also want something that can do ok for carving, speed and powder, then the Typo is a great option. If you want more speed, carving and powder performance then the Rossi One. The One can still play in the park and can definitely still hit jumps and you can still ride switch on it – but the Typo is just more geared towards that than the One.
If you went Typo, then I’d say either 158 or 161. But if you have UK10.5 boots, then I would go with the 159W.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
you are really fast, thx.
I have US 10.5 Burton Photon Boa so looks like Rosssi One 159.
Btw. Did you have any exposure to Head Instinct I.Kers? I saw it somewhere but there are not a lot of tests around.
Thanks a lot for reply and your site,
Oliver
You’re very welcome Oliver.
Yeah, I think the 159 is going to be the best size for you in that case.
I don’t test Head snowboards, so I can’t really help you there unfortunately.
I have been considering this board after finding a great price on it- $200 in my size. The main concern is it doesn’t sound like it performs too well on jumps compared to what I am used to. Just wondering if you had any suggestions – I am moving from a 2007 Ride Dose so just about anything would be an upgrade I would imagine.
I was previously looking at the Yes Typo, the NS Proto Two, and Capita DOA, but at the price point and availability in the season I thought the Rossignol might be a good board to try out.
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I’d say the one downside of the One (which I currently own myself) is that it lacks a little in terms of pop. It’s not dead in terms of pop, you can generate a bit, but it’s not super poppy. And I think a big reason for that is that the camber sections that run between the feet end just at the inserts – it’s like half way under your inserts the rocker starts. I think there’d be a bit more pop in there if that camber just extended to just outside the inserts. But otherwise it’s not bad for jumps – it’s the pop that is the main thing that brings it down for jumps for me – but that said, I ride it through the park over jumps all the time and hit side hits, rollers, ollies etc on it all the time – it’s not like it’s un-enjoyable for that – and in terms of approach and landing it’s fine – just that it’s not supper poppy.
That price is amazing for that board, and really the pop is the biggest downside I’ve noticed with it.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
really nice website you have going on here!
I wanna replace my 11 year old Nitro Magnum and the One LF currently sits in the pole postion to do just that (for many winters i was a poor student who couldn’t afford too much trips into mountains ;P).
I’m 6’1″, 165lbs and have size 11 boots (Nitro Venture TLS) + Burton Cartel bindings (L).
I mostly ride groomers in the beautiful Alps and would like to step up my carving game.
I read your advice for Keith from above and think in the end it comes down to the 159 or the 161W?
My binding angles are +15/-9. Do you think i can get away with the -9 on the 159?
The two other boards I’m considering are the Niche Aether and the Yes Standard, although the Standard seems to be pretty much sold out here in Europe. Do you think it would be worth it to wait for next year’s model? It was the board I was considering at first and overall it was reviewed really well.
Keep up the good work!
Greetings from Germany
Daniel
Hi Daniel
Thanks for your message. I definitely know the poor student struggling to get into the mountains scenario – was definitely there for a while!
I think you’d be pushing it with a back angle of 9 degrees with 11s on the 159, especially given that you are looking to step up your carving. I think you’d get away with it with a -15 back binding angle but I wouldn’t go any straighter than that will 11s, unless you had low profile boots – I don’t know Nitro boots well, so I’m not sure what they’re profile is like. That’s not to say that you couldn’t get away with the 159, but I think it would be a definite risk and you’d be pushing it in terms of overhang, IMO.
The 161W is quite wide for 11s – it’s doable though, and since you’re -9 and not -15 it makes it more doable. Maybe not ideal. It’s probably the better length for you than the 157W, although, I do think you could get away with the 157W too. I ride the 159 and I like that size – and I have a few pounds on you (I’m 185lbs, 6’0″) so I think the 157W is doable for you as a lighter guy. And then you’re getting something a little narrower. So that could be an option too – but yeah, I think the 159 would be pushing it for you in terms of risking being too narrow.
The Niche Aether 159 would be a good size for you in my opinion, both length and width. And a good option, IMO. It’s got a centered stance (the One has a bit of a setback) but that’s fine if you are going to be mostly on the groomers.
The Standard is one of those boards that’s wider than the waist width suggests and it’s the kind of board that I would size down for. I would say the 156 would be the best size for you for the Standard, if you were to wait for that.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
just wanted to let you know I bought the One LF 161W! Rode it two weekends ago in really foggy conditions, but already had a lot of fun. Rode it yesterday, had really nice weather and man it’s an amazing board. I already feel like I ride on another level. I feel much more confident when riding at higher speeds due to the unreal edge control. LOVE IT! Also it’s so much lighter than my old Nitro, compared to that it feels like I’m strapped onto a cloud 😀
Thank you so much for your advice 🙂
You’re very welcome Daniel.
Love receiving messages like this! Awesome that you’re loving your new board. Hope you enjoy the rest of your season!
Just went ahead and purchased a One LF 159cm. Do you have any recommendations for bindings? Size 10.5, looking to spend around 200 max. Thanks!
Hi Alex
Something from one of the following lists would work well for the One LF.
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
Now, you won’t find any of those for under $200 in a current season model. But if you can find something in a past season model, you should be able to find some for under $200. Most likely something like the Burton Cartel, Flux DS, K2 Lien At and Flux TT (actually this retails at $200 for latest season). Some other options to look at are the Union Force and Salomon Alibi – they retail at a little over $200 but if you can find a past season model, then you should be able to get one of those for less than $200. The Burton Missions are also an option – again you’d have to look at past season model to go under $200 but should be something available hopefully.
In terms of sizing for 10.5s, it will depend on the brand as to which size is best. Check out the following for the different sizings for the different brands.
>>Snowboard Binding Sizing
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
New to snowboarding but absolutely love it. Great website, I’ve got a lot out of all your reviews. Very keen on the Rossignol One LF and keen to get your advise on sizing. 153 or 156? I’m 145-155 pounds and 5’8.5″. Size 9.5 US shoe.
Like I said I’m fairy new, but seem to have progressed fairly quickly. I have surfed all my life and skated through my misspent youth, so snowboarding felt natural from the get go. I’ve spent a week in Japan where I was set up on a rental Burton LTR 155W. Had a few lessons on my first few days and progressed to a level 5 rider if that helps.
Going back to Japan next season but also plan to also use the board in Australia and NZ where conditions can generally be a bit icier (from my experience skiing there as a kid).
Am I one the right track with the Rossignol One in 153 or 156?
Thanks Nate!
Cheers
Hi Will
Thanks for your message.
I think the Rossi One sounds like a good choice based on what you’re describing. It’s good in hard/icy conditions but also good for riding in powder. A good balance for the conditions you’re going to be riding. And a versatile board all-round.
In terms of size, it’s a tough call. I would be leaning towards the 153 for you, if you were a complete beginner and it’s still an option now. But the 156 is an option too, given your progression. I think something around 155 would be your advanced level size for this kind of board. So whether you wanted to go straight to your advanced size or go with an easier going size to progress more quickly on.
The 156 will be better in powder for Japan – and will have a more similar surface area for powder as the 155W you were on. I wouldn’t have put you on a 155W for your specs, as a beginner (for starters I wouldn’t have had you on a wide board) but it sounds like you managed it fine, so that’s the other thing to consider whether 156 would be ok. But keep in mind that the Rossi One is a more advanced board and stiffer than the Burton LTR. That said, it’s still certainly an intermediate friendly board.
So yeah, it’s a tough call. I think ideally you’d get on the 153 to start with and then upgrade, but that’s obviously not financially the best option. You’ve given me a tough one here!
Pros and cons – the 156 will float better in powder, be more stable at speed and better for big carves. The 153 will be better for learning switch, more agile at slower speeds, better in the trees, and better for thing like butters and on jibs. If you think you’ll lean freestyle at all, then that would give more ticks towards the 153.
Hope this gives you more info to go off.
G’day Nate,
Thanks for your detailed reply, I really appreciate it. I’m leaning more towards the 153. I understand it will have a different feel to the Burton LTR I was on and will likely take a slight adjustment. I don’t want to bite off more than I can chew and potentially delay progression by getting the 156 just because it will be better down the track.
Thanks again mate.
Will.
You’re very welcome Will.
I think that’s be a good approach to take. Let me know how you get a chance to ride it (if you remember by the time your season rolls around!)
Hi Nate,
Great review! Deciding on a new all-mountain freestyle board. 5’6″ 150-155 pounds. Low intermediate level. I used to ride a 156 2010 burton custom but thought it was too long and too stiff for me (I could barely butter on it and it was difficult to make quick turns on). I was looking for a shorter/softer board this time around since I like to ride off piste, make quick turns, and freestyle a bit (although I’m still learning how to land small jumps and small rails atm).
I was looking at boards in the 150/151 range (yes typo/greats, salomon assassin, slash brainstorm), but found a great deal for a rossi one lf with rossi cuda bindings. Unfortunately it’s a 153 (and it seems that’s the smallest they get). Do you think I should get it or should I go for the 150/151? Looking for a noticeable change after downsizing my board.
Another option is a cheap 150 endeavor ktv I found, but it’s flat camber. Would it be ok for all-mountain freestyle?
Thanks,
Bryan
Hi Bryan
Thanks for your message.
I would say that 154 is the longest you’d want to go for an all-mountain board like this – and as an intermediate rider, it’s a good idea to go just a little shorter if you can. So, the 153 One would work for you – and it’s also going to be much more easy going than a 2010 Custom (assuming it’s the traditional camber version). 156 is pretty long for you, IMO, and even just that length is going to feel stiffer too. The Rossi One is rated a 7/10 in terms of flex by Rossi, but definitely not that stiff, IMO. It’s 6/10 at most, and a pretty easy going ride. Likely to feel a lot more agile and easy to ride than your 2010 Custom 156, IMO.
That said, ideally, especially given that you’re looking to up your freestyle game, something around that 150/151 mark would be better.
If you wanted to get the deal and go for the Rossi One 153, it wouldn’t be a bad choice at all, and I think it’s something you’d enjoy riding, but maybe just not ideal.
I don’t currently test Endevour boards, so I can’t say too much about the KTV. It looks like the latest KTV has a hyrbid camber profile, but I’m guessing you’re looking at a past season, and that looks like it was flat. Some people really like flat, and I’ve ridden one flat board that had plenty of pop, but generally, I like the spring of camber in there somewhere. That’s not to say that you wouldn’t like it, but if you haven’t ridden flat before and aren’t sure, then that would be a risk. I do like flat for jibs though.
Brainstorm is more like Rossi One – i.e an all-mountain board – but you could go down to 151 with that.
The Typo is kind of in between all-mountain and all-mountain-freestyle. Another good option, though – and you could go 149 or 152. It’s a little softer flexing too, in my experience.
The Greats is one of the best all-mountain-freestyle boards I’ve ridden (and I just rode the 2019 version the other day, and it’s still awesome!). It comes in a 152. If you were going to go for the 2019 model, just note that it has changed a bit as it now has mid-bite (cinched waist – so the width at the inserts is wider). The current model though is a more regular shape in terms of width.
Salomon Assassin another good choice as an all-mountain-freestyle deck and there’s a 150.
If also want a good range to look at in terms of width, I’d be happy to give my opinion. I’d just need your boot size.
Hope this gives you more info for your decision
Thank you this helped tremendously! Right now I’m only leaning towards the rossi one since I could get the board + cuda bindings for a good deal right now ($350). Your reply has definitely eased my mind should I go this route, which I think I will.
I also found a good deal on the brainstorm but that graphic was ugly (flowers don’t do it for me). And I heard greats things about the typo, great, and assassin but they were all out of my price range. I was also looking into the yes basic but I saw that it was for beginners and was almost too soft.
As for boots size, I wear a 8.5/9 so I believe width shouldn’t be too much of an issue. However, is there a boot you would recommend for all mountain freestyle? I was looking at the adidas tactical adv since you reviewed it so highly, but it seems to be sold out in my size everywhere. And BOAs don’t really do it for me since I did have a bad experience with the single BOA I had.
Hi Bryan
I’d say something off one of the following lists would work well as an all-mountain-freestyle boot – probably anything around 5/10, 6/10 in terms of flex – they would also match the Rossi One. I wouldn’t go any softer than that, and would go stiffer than 7/10.
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Hope this gives you some options.
Oh yeah and you should be good with the Rossi One and a majority of the boards in that 150, 151 range, with that boot size.
Hi. Just a question on sizing.
I’m 6′ about 185lbs and wear Size 10 boots. I found a 156 on sale for a good price but thinking it might be a tad small. Since I usually ride icy conditions with rare powder days. Would the 156 be a board I could use. I ride 15/-15 normally.
I’m mostly a relaxed rider that does natural terrain jumps but nothing fancy. I’m probably more likely to be more playful on the mountain then a straight bomber since we don’t really have too many big mountains in Australia. Would the One mag be ok for that or should I be looking at something like the jibsaw more?
Thanks
Hey Ish
Thanks for your message.
I own the Rossi One 159 (2018 model) and I’m pretty much exactly the same specs as you (6′, 185lb, size 10s). I like the 159 for that board for me. But I see quite a lot of powder days and do spend some time bombing, but I also enjoy slowing it up and playing around. Definitely something you can still do on the One. And since you’re not going to see that much powder and aren’t planning on bombing too much, I think the 156 will work. There are other boards that I prefer in a 156 or 157 – so I don’t think it’s a size that’s too short for you, given what you’re describing.
The Jibsaw would also work. It’s more freestyle oriented (what I would call an all-mountain-freestyle board) but its also a little more aggressive in terms of camber profile (more camber). A similar flex to the One LF, but I’d say that the LF is a more easy going ride. The Jibsaw a little more poppy though.
Hope this helps and enjoy the season down under!
Hello!,
Another sizing question.
I am 5’11 and 150lb with size 10s. I am a beginner/intermediate snowboarder. I am starting to try to carve and I went religiously all weekend to the mountain last year. I generally just go down groomers and play around.
What size should I get?
Thanks!
Hi Maxime
Thanks for your message.
Generally speaking I would say something around 154, 155 would be a good length for your specs, ability and riding style.
Specifically for the Rossi One LF, it’s between the 153 and 156. Some things to consider:
1. The 153 should still be OK width-wise for size 10s. But if you ride with quite a straight angle on your back foot, then it might be pushing it too narrow (e.g. binding angles like +18/-3) but if you ride with a decent angle on your back foot (e.g. if you’re riding something like +15/-15), then it should be fine. The 156 would be the safer bet width-wise and should be fine for most binding angles.
2. The 156 is going to give more float in powder, more stability at speed.
3. The 153 will be more playful/forgiving and more maneuverable at slower speeds. Better for trees and better for freestyle if you start to get into that. It would be the more casual playful length for you. Though this board isn’t an aggressive board anyway, but in the smaller size will be even more playful.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hello and thanks for all the great information.
Would K2 Formulas match up well with the One LF?
Hi DD
Yeah I think the Formulas would be a good match for the Rossi One LF. They are a good flex match. Whilst I wouldn’t write home about the K2 Formula, they are a decent binding for the price and would certainly match with the One LF
Thanks Nate, appreciate the information.
You’re very welcome DD. Hope you have a great season!
Hi Nate, I am looking at this board as a daily driver (I already have a dedicated pow board). I am 5 11 190lbs with 10.5 boots. Trying to choose between Rossi One mag 159 and Jones Mountain Twin 157. Which one do you think is more fun to carve, butter, blast side hits and cruise groomers? Basically which one has a funner sidecut/dynamic overall feel? Thanks for all your info, great site!
Hi ShrED
Thanks for your message.
I would say that both are equally as good for carving but overall the Mountain Twin has a slightly more dynamic feel, and certainly so in the 157 MT vs the 159 One. The One LF has a slightly smoother/more damp feel. Both are just as easy to butter as each other too – not super easy to butter but can certainly butter with them. The Mountain Twin is a little nicer for jumps and has a bit more pop.
Not huge differences but noticeable, IMO.
Size-wise, I think the 157 could work for you in the Mountain Twin, particularly considering you already have a dedicated powder board. Otherwise I might say go longer. The 159 is a good size for you too, IMO, if you went with the One.
Width-wise they should both be fine for 10.5s too. Only thing would be if you ride with a really straight back binding angle and have quite a long profile boot. Otherwise, should be fine on both width-wise.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi ShrED,
I’m 6’2”, 195lbs, wearing a 10.5 Rome Libertine boot, and am looking at the Rossi One MagTek as a potential upgrade/replacement for the Never Summer Premier T5 I’ve been riding for years. I’ve enjoyed the Premier, but it’s 168cm and I’m looking for something a bit more turny and forgiving, so I can relax and enjoy a bit more of the mountain. I’d say I’m advanced, riding in powder when available, and pretty much everything else when it’s not, frequently heading into the trees and off the sides of runs looking for some fun. Also cruising the groomers and hard pack depending on conditions. Given all that, do you thing the One is an appropriate board for me, and if so, what size would you recommend between the 159 and the 161w? I usually ride with my back boot pretty much at 0 degrees, but am open to tweaking that a bit. Also wondering the ups and downs of the wide board are from a performance perspective. Thanks for any advice you can offer, and Happy Holidays!
I sent in a comment and mistakenly started it with “Hi ShrED” and it should have been to “Nate”. I apologize for the error.
Thanks
Hi John
All good!
I don’t know much about the NS Premier T5, but from what I’ve seen the Rossignol One is probably on the more playful side than it – and certainly sizing down, you’ll get something that’s definitely more forgiving.
It’s not going to be in powder what a freeride board is – and you’ll certainly loose some powder performance by sizing down, but otherwise, the One is really good in powder for an all-mountain board, in my experience.
Also in terms of bombing, you’re going to drop a little in terms of stability at speed, just by sizing down (effective edge on the Premier 168 looks like it was 132cm!), but that’s usually the price to pay for getting something more turny and forgiving. But the Rossi One has a decent effective edge at the lengths that you’re looking at (122cm) and I’ve found that it handles speed pretty well. Not an absolute bomber but can handle enough speed for most occasions I’ve found.
In trees, I think you’re not going to know yourself sizing down to one of those lengths, and with the Rossignol being more forgiving at slower speeds (I suspect) anyway, I think you’ll really enjoy it.
The One is also really good on hard pack/icy conditions, in my experience.
You’re going to sacrifice something in terms of when you’re straight line bombing it, for sure, but from what you’re describing, I think you’ll gain in the areas you’re looking for. Overall, I think the One would suit your purposes well.
In terms of size. With a back binding angle of 0, it would be risking it on the 159. I don’t deal with Rome boots, so I’m not sure what their outersole profile is like – whether it’s reduced much or not – if is is, then I would be more confident to say that you’d probably be OK. It’s hard to say for sure, but I think you’d be very close to being OK on it anyway, but there is some risk that it would be too narrow.
In terms of performance on a wider board. I find when a board gets too wide, that it typically slows down edge to edge speed and makes it more difficult physically to apply pressure to the edges, so the board becomes more of an effort to turn. There are advantages of course, like a wider landing platform – and zero risk of any kind of boot drag. I personally don’t like most boards that are wider than around 265mm at the insert (which could be anywhere between 252 and 259 and the waist depending on the board). I ride 10s, not 10.5s though. There are some exceptions to that, but the Rossi isn’t one of them for me. The 161W is around 280mm at the back insert (my brother owns the Rossi One in that size) and the 159 is 265mm at the back insert.
I would say that getting on the 159 in terms of width is preferable. Though I think the 161W would be a better length for you, but might be getting a bit too wide.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate, thanks for the great feedback. I attempted to purchase The One in a previous year model, 161W, but it ended up not being in stock. Now considering other options and taking a look at the Nitro Team.
What do you think about this option compared to the Rossignol? Do you know if this board has changed much in the last 3 years?
I’m once again stuck on the question of size….looking at 162 standard, or 159 wide, or 162 wide. The specs I’ve seen online don’t show a weight difference between the standard and wide versions of this board, which doesn’t make sense, so I was hoping you might be able to weigh in on the matter.
Thanks again for your time, and the advice, much appreciated!
John
Hi John
The 2019 Nitro Team (Gullwing version) is the only Nitro board I’ve tested to date (hoping to try more in the future). I haven’t ridden the camber version. But here’s my review on the Team Gullwing:
>>Nitro Team Gullwing Review
Length-wise, I think around 162 would be a good length. I feel like the 162W would be too wide in this board though. The 159 is 262mm wide at the rear insert, which is likely to translate to roughly 264mm at the rear insert of the 162. The 162W is likely to be more like 280mm at the rear insert – so similar to the 161W One LF.
So like with the Rossi One – the debate is if the 262 would be too narrow and if the 262W might be a bit too wide. Though I would be more confident that you would get on the 162 standard width, with a bit more angle on the back foot.
Hope this helps
Hi experts, I got a 156, I’m 5 6″ 163lbs. 9.5us, and a solid beginner. I like that this board does not catch, but I feel the speed is too much for me. I had stellar runs but also a lot of lack of control. Also, the 153 may have been better. I rode a 149 soft rental board v rocker just fine. Should I keep this for the big resort, powder days, where I have room to turn. or should I sell it and go back to the rental? an extruded base. shorter board? I own an old “rental.’ The local places I go are icy hardpack, a few times a year I hit good snow. I thought this would be the solution, but now I have my doubts. Maybe if I give it more time I can slow this puppy down.
Hi Frank
Thanks for your message.
As a beginner, even a high-end beginner, I think the 156 is a bit long for you. I would say something between 150 and 153 would be a better size for you as a beginner. As an advanced rider, something around 155, 156 would be fine, but at your stage, the 153 for this board would have been a better choice – but preferably a more beginner oriented board too. The One LF is fine for Intermediate and up, but not ideal (though doable) at a beginner level. Ceratainly at that length and this board, I’m not too surprised that it feels too fast. Ideally something softer and shorter.
I would keep this for big resort/powder days, as you say – and can also become your daily driver once you become a more advanced rider, but I would add in something better to progress on, in the mean time.
Check out the following for some options:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Possibly the second list is a good option for you, if you’re at the higher end of beginner, and something you could keep as a second, more playful option, or sell once you graduate to the One LF full time. Though if you want something super easy to progress on and then sell, the first list has some great options for that.
Hope this gives you some ideas and helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Let me start by complimenting you on the awesome website – there’s a lot of very useful info and as a snowboard newbie I learned a ton!
I started snowboarding last year and I am loving it so far – I finally decided to stop pouring money into rentals and invest into a board of my own. I spent the last few days reading various guides on how to chose an all-mountain snowboard and I came up with the following list:
Yes. Typo
Slash Brainstorm
Jones Mountain Twin
Jones Explorer
Burton Custom Flying V
CAPiTA Defenders of Awesome
Never Summer West
Rossignol ONE LF
I was wondering if you could help me chose – doesn’t necessarily have to be one of the above. A little bit about myself – I have around 10+ days on groomed trails, can do blue runs comfortably (even though my S shape turns are not as crisp as I would like and my self-preservation instinct makes me slow-down when riding at higher speed). I am looking for a board to progress on for the forthcoming few years – from what I’ve gathered buying a beginner board is not a great idea if you plan on riding a lot and progressing quickly. Measurements:
weight: 84 kg = 187.4 lbs
height: 187 cm = 6’1”
shoe size: 45EU = 10.5UK = 11US
What would be a good board size – I am thinking of going for a wider board because of the shoe size – what do you think? Thanks a lot in advance!
Hi Miro
Thanks for your message.
In my experience, it’s worse to go for a board that’s too advanced, that’s too much of a beginner board. If you’re a beginner board, the fastest way to progress is on a beginner board, IMO. On a more advanced board you tend to get down the mountain whichever way you can to survive and that can develop poor technique. So, I don’t necessarily agree that riding a beginner board isn’t a good idea. However, whilst a beginner board will help you to progress quickly to a certain level, you will only progress so far, which is why upgrading at some point is usually necessary. That said, if you’re to a certain point in your riding already, then going with a more intermediate level of board, is certainly a good idea, that way you can ride a board that’s still not too advanced but can still help you to progress further than a beginner board can. So, IMO, a beginner board will be the quickest for progressing for a beginner, but will be limited in how far you can go on it. I prefer people to get a beginner board first and let that take them as far as they can go and then get a more intermediate board, before going with a more advanced board. However, I understand that that’s not always doable financially. But going for a really advanced board is worse than going with something too beginner, IMO.
But… and I know that was a long winded way to get to my point…. most of the boards you have listed should be suitable as the kind of board that will work as an intermediate board that will have a slightly steeper learning curve to a beginner board, but won’t be so far ahead and shouldn’t cause poor technique, but will be able to take you to a more advanced level, than a beginner board ultimately good.
Phew…. hope that makes sense.
Anyway, I would personally cross off the DOA, as it’s a little more aggressive and the Explorer too. The rest of what you have there would, IMO, be a good balance of easy progression and long progression.
You could also check out the following, which is a list I made for those wanting something still beginner friendly but able to progress you a little further.
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Length-wise, I would look at something around 159, 160, for your specs/ability. Width-wise, for most boards, I would say that wide is the best idea with 45EU boots.
For the boards you mention, I would say go for:
Yes. Typo – 159W (think this is a great option and a really good size)
Slash Brainstorm – 159W
Jones Mountain Twin – 158W or 161W – I would be leaning towards 158W, as it would be an easier learning curve, IMO.
Burton Custom Flying V – 158W
Never Summer West – 160X
Rossignol ONE LF – 161W
I would be leaning towards the 159W Typo or 159W Brainstorm or one of the all-mountain options from that intermediate list.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I hope you can help me out as well. I can’t decide between the Rossi One 157W and the 159.
I’m 6″0, 163lbs and wear Vans US size 11. The thing is I was a bit surprised that my boots were US size 11, which is EUR 44,5, while all my normal shoes are just EUR 43. So I think the Vans boots just run big.
Anyway I measured the boots and they are about 31,5cm. Combined with my specs, what do you think is the better board for me, the 157W or the 159? I am an intermediate level boarder.
Thanks for your help.
Conrad
Hi Conrad
Thanks for your message.
I have found that different brands of boots fit different people differently. It’s a weird phenomena, really. I wear US10 for most snowboard boots, and for shoes and it’s the same for me with Vans boots. But everyone is different. I’ve found some people with the same length foot, don’t always fit in the same size boot too, so it really depends with boots.
Anyway, length-wise, I think the 157W is probably the best length for you, based on what you’re describing and the width would certainly work too.
You could ride a 159 though. The width on that would be borderline too narrow though. If you ride with +15-15 bindings angles or similar (i.e. with a relatively angled back binding), then I think you would get away with it, but anything else and it would be pushing it being too narrow. Width at inserts on the 159 is 265mm on the back insert (I have measured this one) and that’s the size I ride (with US10s). I ride with +15-15 and there is plenty of width there for me, but with 11s you would be pushing it, though I think you would get away with it if they were your angles.
With any other angles, I would go with the 157W – and since I think that’s a better length anyway, I think that’s an option even if you ride with +15-15. I estimate the width at inserts on the 157W to be around 275mm. I also have Vans, and my 10s are 30.3cm long. So with your boots being roughly 1cm longer and the width at the inserts on the 157W being roughly 1cm wider, you would be riding roughly the equivalent of what I ride with the 159, width-wise.
So, long story short, I would say go 157W.
Hope this helps