The following 10 boards are what we consider to be the best snowboards for intermediate riders for the 2023-2024 season.
These boards have been chosen as boards that are still not too difficult to ride, but at the same time offer a little more performance, for those that are high-end beginners or intermediate riders that are looking for a board that can stick with them for longer than a beginner board.
Each board is given a rating out of 100 for easier comparison.
Price has not been considered in the ratings.
Of the 43 different intermediate boards that I rated:
O.k. let’s get started with the top 10.
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BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #10
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #9
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #8
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #7
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #6
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #5
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #4
BEST BOARDS FOR INTERMEDIATE RIDERS #3
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #10
Board: YES Basic
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
Style of Board: Freestyle
Smart rating score: 86.1/100
Starting off the list at #10 we have the YES Basic. A great option as a strictly beginner deck but also works well as an intermediate-to-advanced board, if you're looking for something that's freestyle focused.
If you end up going in another direction for freeride or all-mountain riding, it's something you could keep as your dedicated park board - or simply as a mellow groomer cruiser.
Score Breakdown for the Basic
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 4/5 | 8/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 84.2/100 | 42.1/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.1/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #9
Board: BATALEON WHATEVER
- CA
Flex: Medium (4.5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain-freestyle
Smart rating score: 86.3/100
Next up we have Bataleon's Whatever.
The Whatever is a great option for those that want a catch-free ride, but still wants plenty of pop and something that can take a freestyle flavor to the whole mountain.
Score Breakdown for the whatever
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 3.5/5 | 7/10 |
Performance score as ALL-MOUNTAIN snowboard | 86.5/100 | 43.3/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.3/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #8
Board: Slash Brainstorm
- CA
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 86.3/100
In at #8, we have the Slash Brainstorm.
A great option for those who want just a bit more stiffness compared to most on this list. Still a mid-flex, but just a touch stiffer than most here. If you're quite an athletic rider, you might like that extra rigidity.
But it's not stiff by any means and it's not super technical to ride or anything. It's got very subtle camber between the feet and a really easy turning board.
So, if you think you want to step it up just a touch more with the flex, but still want something that's easy enough to turn and is otherwise a really high performance board, this could be a great option for you. It's one that is a a great all-mountain board in it's own right, not taking into account being good for an intermediate rider.
Score Breakdown for the Brainstorm
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4/5 | 16/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4/5 | 16/20 |
VERSATILITY | 5/5 | 10/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 88.6/100 | 44.3/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.3/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #7
Board: Jones Tweaker
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (4.5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain Freestyle
Smart rating score: 86.8/100
The Tweaker was new for 2023 and remains unchanged (apart from the graphic) for the 2024 model. It's Jones' first foray into a true twin board.
This all-mountain-freestyle deck is super fun and easy to turn with and is great for any aspiring freestyle to all-mountain freestyle riders out there. Despite being an all-camber profile, it's on the looser, more playful side, so if you like the sound of that, this board could work well for you.
Score Breakdown for the Tweaker
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5/5 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4/5 | 16/20 |
VERSATILITY | 3.5/5 | 7/10 |
Performance score as ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE snowboard | 87.6/100 | 43.8/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.8/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #6
Board: Burton Process Flying V
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 87.9/100
Our #6 pick is Burton's Process Flying V.
The Process Flying V is one of the more versatile boards going around for those that want a playful take on all-mountain riding.
Also, great for that next level for the progressing high-end beginner and intermediate rider.
Score Breakdown for the Process Flying V
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 5/5 | 10/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 83.7/100 | 41.9/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.9/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #5
Board: Never Summer Snowtrooper
- CA
Flex: Medium-Soft (4/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 88.2/100
Next up we have Never Summer's Snowtrooper.
The Snowtrooper is a very easy going and versatile ride that can take you anywhere/do a bit of everything.
Great for anyone who wants something that's a little more casual/surfy but that can still progress with them, anywhere and everywhere on the mountain.
Score Breakdown for the Snowtrooper
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 5/5 | 10/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 84.3/100 | 42.2/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.2/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #4
Board: Capita Outerspace Living
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 88.2/100
Coming in at #4, we have Capita's Outerspace Living.
One of the most versatile boards going around, this all-mountain deck has the performance you'll need once you're more advanced, whilst still being easy going enough not to stunt your progress now.
Score Breakdown for the Outerspace Living
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5/5 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4/5 | 16/20 |
VERSATILITY | 5/5 | 10/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 84.3/100 | 42.2/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.2/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #3
Board: YES Typo
- CA
Flex: Medium (4.5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 90.1/100.
At #3 we have the YES Typo.
The Typo is a souped-up version of the YES Basic (see #10 in this list).
You get a bit more stiffness and a bit more of a camber dominant profile and a faster base, with a small setback stance, giving you that little bit more performance and a board that's on the all-mtn freestyle end of all-mountain but a little more all-mountain oriented than the Basic.
But while it's a little stiffer and more performance driven than the Basic, it's still a really easy going ride, that will help build confidence.
Score Breakdown for the Typo
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5/5 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 4.5/5 | 9/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 86.1/100 | 43.1/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.1/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #2
Board: Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 90.3/100
Our penultimate board, at #2, is Lib Tech's Terrain Wrecker.
The Terrain Wrecker is a really easy to ride board, but one with very good performance, even for more advanced rider's who prefer a board that's not too stiff/demanding.
It's one of the most versatile boards going around, for those that like that one-board quiver and, importantly for this list, is something that's very doable for a lower intermediate rider.
Score Breakdown for the Terrain Wrecker
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5/5 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4/5 | 16/20 |
VERSATILITY | 5/5 | 10/10 |
Performance score as FREESTYLE snowboard | 88.6/100 | 44.3/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.3/100 |
INTERMEDIATE BOARD #1
Board: BATALEON GOLIATH
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Style of Board: All-Mountain
Smart rating score: 91.3/100
And finally, in at #1, we have Bataleon's Goliath snowboard.
The Goliath has that knack of being both catch-free but snappy, poppy and high performance. This is in part to do with the 3BT (curved base) in the base, coupled with a full camber profile.
The Goliath is a super versatile, go-anywhere, do-anything ride that will still be fun and relevant when you're more advanced, but is something that is easy going and confidence building for the here and now.
Score Breakdown for the GOLIATH
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
FLEX | 5/5 | 20/20 |
TURNING EASE | 4.5/5 | 18/20 |
VERSATILITY | 4.5/5 | 9/10 |
Performance score as ALL-MOUNTAIN snowboard | 88.6/100 | 44.3/50 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.3/100 |
Over To You
So there's my top 10 Intermediate boards for 2023-2024. Hopefully it helps those who are bordering beginner and intermediate to find a good deck that they won't outgrow too soon.
The scores above have been derived taking 3 factors that I see as important to a beginner friendly board, and giving 50% of the score to that. The other 50% of the score goes to how well that board performs in it's given category (i.e. all-mountain).
Check out the links under each board for more info, prices and availability.
Hi Nate,
My wife is still beginner level 3 for the longest time and never progressed past that. She can link turns in the basic manner but can’t do quick edge to edge. I’m hoping to be able to get her to level 4 or 5 (my secret wish).
She is in need of a new board now. She learned on a Roxy Eminence 2013 which was a hybrid rocker board (maybe a little too stiff for her). I got her a Jones Twin Sister last year but honest I think that board is too advanced for her and may be impeding her progression. I got a good deal on an Arbor Poparazzi Rocker version (not Camber) board, and I want to ask you if you think that board is appropriate for her level. Please keep in mind that her biggest fear in snowboarding (besides high speed) is getting off the lift. She still falls sometimes when getting off. I wonder if the Rocker version would be too loose for her when one footing off the chair. The other option is the Yes Womens Basic, but the cheapest I’ve found will still be over $100 more than the Poparazzi Rocker.
Could you let me know your opinions?
Hi Leo
Thanks for your message. Yeah, it will be a bit more of a challenge coming off the lift, in one sense, because it is a looser feeling board. It does have the advantage that she shouldn’t find it catchy at all. But that rocker does make for a looser lift exit experience. The Basic is easy to get off the lift with, has a more stable feel and a really good board for her level to progress on, IMO, but I get it that the price difference, in your case is quite a bit. She would get used to the looseness coming off the lift, but it may affect her confidence to begin with. The Poparazzi rocker isn’t as loose as some full rocker boards, because of the way Arbor’s rocker works, but there will still be an element of looseness coming off the lift. In terms of initiating turns and getting quicker edge-to-edge, I think it would really help her to progress in that sense. She should find it nice and easy to turn with.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you and I really appreciate your comments. It’s nice to know that the Poparazzi rocker isn’t as loose as a full rocker board. Based on your comments, I think I will keep the Poparazzi rocker for her because I can always help her a bit getting off the lift, by holding her waist until we are off the lift and slowly coming to a stop, which is what I’ve been doing. The rocker can then help her a lot in turning which will boost her confidence in a much bigger way.
I will still keep the Twin Sister so that when she gets better, she can get back to this cambered board and progress from there. Thank you again for the help!
Hi Nate,
Thanks again for your great advice. I found a Yes Basic for around $50 more than the Poparazzi Rocker but it’s only available in 149. My wife is around 140-145 lbs and boot size 8. I think the ideal size is 146 but do you think she can handle the 149 on the Basic?
Hi Leo
Can you also let me know your wife’s height. Weight and boot size are the most important for sizing (along with ability level and riding style) but I still like to take height into account to be as accurate as possible, as there is a leverage factor, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Thank you. My wife is 5’5” (165cm). Weight is actually 145lbs, and boot size is 8.
Hi Leo
I would put your wife’s “typical all-mountain length” at around 150cm, but that assumes a more advanced level. At the moment to make it easier to turn on, I would size down from that – and going to 149 is probably not enough. It’s doable, but I’d be more leaning towards the Poparazzi (ideally in 147, but the 144 would work too, particularly given that you have another board waiting in the wings for her) and help her off the lift until she gains confidence doing it.
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for all the help. I will keep the Poparazzi then and the size I ordered was indeed 147. Hopefully she can progress significantly this season and get back to the twin sister next year.
You’re very welcome Leo. Hope you both have a great season!
Hi Nate,
I’m sorry to have to bother you again, but I’m facing a tough decision now. I was actually able to find a Yes Basic 146 at a small local shop for only $280, and I also just received the Poparazzi 147 in the mail.
It seems that you prefer the Yes Basic in the previous conversation. Do you think I should just return the Poparazzi then?
Thanks,
Leo
Hi Leo
I would say the Basic would be more stable coming off the lift. And it’s an easy to ride board. So you could. I think the Poparazzi will work well, with a bit more challenge coming off the lift but if you wanted her to have an easier time coming off the lift, then you could return it and go Basic. However, if you do, make sure that it’s the YES Women’s Basic. Both the Men’s Basic and Women’s Basic come in 146s. But the men’s version is wider (247mm waist) and will be too wide for your wife, IMO. So just to make sure that you’re looking at the women’s version (with a 239mm waist width).
Hey Nate
after spending hours on your very helpful website I would appreciate your personal opinion if you dont mind.
I am 67kg, 183cm 27.5cm intermediate level 5
been renting variety of boards, mostly 154 (never under 153, 156 once good exp once horible) and enjoying all kinds of ride, slowly cruising, powder, fast, jumping etc. so I am looking for all mountain.
as far as I have seen lib TW got in my eye also that serrated edge seems great and maybe even better option bataleon thunderstorm, if you have something else in mind great.
considering price and your ratings I would choose burton mission and vans invado or even pay a bit more and have nidecker supermatic if they go with invado and are not to stiff for me and my options because feeling that friends skiers wait for me and straping in on go or sitting is something that I try to avoid.
Thanks in advance and greetings from snowy alps
Hi Miko
Thanks for your message.
The TW and Thunderstorm would work well for what you’re describing, IMO. If you do ride a lot of icy conditions, then the TW is a little better in terms of icy edge-hold, IMO, vs the Thunderstorm, so that could be a contributing factor for your decision. The Slash Brainstorm is one more option I’d throw in there, that I think would work well for you.
Size-wise, I would put your “typical all-mountain length” at around 155/156, but I think coming down a little from that is fine, particularly given your level and the experience you’ve had with different sizes. For the 3 boards mentioned, I would go with:
– TW: 154
– Thunderstorm: 154
– Brainstorm: 154
The Mission would work with any of those, IMO. The Supermatic would go with the Invado fine. In terms of matching those boards, I think the Supermatics are doable. They are the stiffest bindings I would put on those boards. However, they’re still in range. They are a little on the stiff side for your level, so I would be leaning Mission, but if you really wanted that quick entry, then the Supermatic are doable for you and that board/binding combo.
Hope this helps with your decision
So, I ordered vans Invado and chosen Union Strata instead of burton mission and now thinking what if I go with thunderstorm 156 would it be to big for me?
I’ve seen you have driven TS 156 and as you are same height and 30lbs heavier than me did it felt great or to small? ofcourse I can’t exclude your level of riding much more above yours, but would I stagnate or improve if I go with 156 and what would be my pros and cons of both of those sizes including all kind of boarding, sorry for bothering you but I want it to to last long for me.
thanks Nate
Hi Miko
The 156 felt great for me. The 158 though would probably be the better size overall. But I didn’t find the 156 too small. A little on the smaller side, but not too small. But I really enjoyed the 156.
For you, I would be leaning 154 still. That weight makes more of a difference than the height, IMO. And the 154 is a size that you could ride happily at a more advanced level. If you think you’re likely to put on weight over the next few years, then going 156 might be an idea – to future proof it. It will still be doable at 156 for you, but not as ideal as 154 for right now, IMO. I think you would progress quicker on the 154.
In terms of pros and cons, I would say the following:
– The 156 will float better in powder and give more stability at speed
– The 154 will be easier to initiate turns on, quicker edge-to-edge, easier to pop, butter, spin, ollie etc
I am ordering TS 154, whenever someone asks me advice I will continue to direct people to this website and also as I am in contact with Bathaleon promoted you if that means something to you,
nevertheless thank you so much!!
You’re very welcome Miko. Hope it treats you well.
Hi Nate, hoping you can recommend a board for me.
I’ve been snowboarding for 2 years. I went with your top picks and have been riding a Salomon Sight with Flite Pro bindings. I mostly ride in the Rockies and get out about 10-15 days a year. I don’t really venture into the park and prefer groomers, off piste, and some trees. Mostly stick to blues and blacks. I think I’m ready to get something a bit stiffer to progress. I’m thinking about the TW, MT, Typo, or Battalion. I’m 6′, 165 lbs., and wear a 9.5 boot.
Which do you think would work the best and in what size?
Also, will my Flite Pro bindings work with these boards or should I move up there as well? I just got a pair of Burton Photon Boots.
Thanks,
Tony
Hey Tony
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Typo would be the easiest step up, but given what you’re describing, I think you could go up a bit more – and also, you could go a little more directional, given it sounds like you don’t really ride switch or any freestyle, but correct me if I’m wrong. The TW and Goliath are the next easiest steps up, but I think you would be fine on the MT too, given what you’re describing. One of those 3 would work well, IMO. But the Goliath is the least directional, then MT, then TW.
Alternatively if you wanted to go a little more directional, depending on whether you have any aspirations for switch/freestyle in the future, you could also look at something like the GNU Hyper, Bataleon Cruiser, Jones Mind Expander or Capita Navigator.
Size-wise, I would be looking at, for the boards mentioned:
Goliath: 156
MT: 157
TW: 157
Hyper: 157
Cruiser: 154
ME: 154
Navigator: 158 (or 155 if you wanted to keep it more mellow)
Generally speaking I would put your “typical all-mountain length” at around 158.
In terms of bindings, the Flite Pro will work, but would be more optimal to have stiffer bindings on these boards, to drive them better. Something with a 6/10 flex would work well for all of those, IMO. You could go up to as stiff as a 7/10 flex and 5/10 flex would work fine too. The Photon are a good match to any of these boards, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Wondering if you could help recommend a few boards for me. I am 51 years old, have been riding for 7 years now would consider myself intermediate. I live in Boise Idaho, the mountain we go to has hard pack snow borderline icy at times often with a few days of powder. We like to go at night since the number of people I primarily ride the groomers and go to surf the mountain more than going for speed. I am 6’1″ 200 lbs.
Hi John
Thanks for your message.
I think something like the YES Typo or Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker would work really well for you. Or you could even step it up to the YES Standard, if you were more solid intermediate. But given that you’re more about surfing the mountain than going for speed I think the Typo or Terrain Wrecker would be really good bets. Or if you were happy to go more directional (if you’re not really riding switch), then something like the GNU Hyper could be a good bet (see top 10 mellow freeride) Size-wise, if you could also let me know your boot size, then I would be happy to give my sizing opinion.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the recommendation, sorry I forgot to list my boot size. I wear a size 10.5 and I recently purchased flow rear entry bindings, large.
Hi John
Thanks for the extra info.
I would put your “typical all-mountain length” at around 162. Given your style of riding being more mellow (if I’m understanding that right) rather than bombing down, and given your level, I would go for a range of 159-161. So, for the specific boards mentioned I would be looking at:
Typo: 161 (borderline too narrow for 10.5s, but I think you’d be fine, if you’re not ripping any deep carves or anything. If you’re worried about width the 159W is also an option)
Terrain Wrecker: 160
Hyper: 160
Great site! Thank you for the reviews and comments.
My son wants a new snowboard. He is 14 yo, 5’6″ and 135#. This will be his third season snowboarding after skiing for 3 years. He spends most of his time on terrain parks with his friends, with some downhills in between. We live in Michigan, so our “mountains” are pretty tame compared to out west. Based on your ranking score, he’s probably a skill level Intermediate 5 or 6.
His current board is a hand-me-down Ride Control 146 from a friend. What would be a good next step board to look at for him?
TY!
Hey Zed
Thanks for your message.
Given he spends most of his time in the park, I would say something like the YES Basic or one of the All-Mountain Freestyle options in this list (with the caveat re flex – see below). But given his level and the fact he’s mostly riding park, I would check out our Top 10 Freestyle snowboards list too.
From that list, I would only not consider the Evil Twin Plus, YES Jackpot and maybe not the Rome Agent, just because they’re a little stiffer than the rest and at his weight he may find them a bit stiff. They’re not stiff boards or anything, but given he’s in the park and at his weight, I’d be leaning towards the others.
Size-wise, I think he could step up to something around 149.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! (I just posted on the women’s intermediate comment board, but hoping for some advice on my boyfriend’s board as well!)
He’s looking to buy his first board, but is an intermediate rider mainly on groomed runs and looking to step up his riding! He’s 5’10, weighs 165 lbs, and wears men’s size 9 snowboard boots. We live in Ontario, Canada, so we face quite a bit of icy conditions. We’re currently looking at the Yes Typo 158 for him, but would appreciate your input on sizing and what you think overall! Other suggestions would also be super helpful! Thank you for all your help 🙂
Hi Jasmin
I think the Typo would be a great choice for your boyfriend. And 158 definitely works too. I would also consider the 155 though. I would put your boyfriends “typical all-mountain length” at around 157/158, so I think he’d be fine on the 158. As an intermediate rider he could size down a little – not as important as for a beginner, but the 155 is still a possibility. I think it depends on what he likes to do the most/what he’s looking to progress into. If he likes maneuverability at slower speeds over stability at high speeds, is planning on riding trees a lot, wants to get into learning some freestyle stuff, then I’d be leaning 155. If he’s more about developing his confidence at riding faster, and doing deeper more aggressive carving, then I’d be leaning 158.
Some other good options include (taking into account the icy conditions):
– Rossignol Resurgence
– Slash Brainstorm
– Never Summer Snowtrooper
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
A couple of slightly more advanced options he could consider include the YES Standard and Jones Mountain Twin, but if he’s a lower end intermediate, they might be a touch too advanced. I really like the Typo for him, for what you’re describing.
Hi Nate,
I would call myself an intermediate snowboarder. I like riding mostly blues, going fast, and sometimes off trail. I might hit the terrain park every now and then, or more in the future, but not too much. I have never owned a snowboard, boots, or bindings, as I have always rented when going on trips. Can you please help me out with finding the right styles of boards and such for me? Another thing I should add is that I will be boarding a lot more often because I am moving rather than going once a year.
Hey Zach
Thanks for your message. I would probably look for an all-mountain board at this point. Because you like to ride fast and because you’re going to be going quite regularly, I would look more at this list – >>our top 10 All Mountain snowboards – and look at something that has at least a 3.5/5 speed score. These are still intermediate friendly boards but are a bit of step up in performance than this list (and offer more options that are a little better at speed) – note that some from this list do make that list, but they don’t score as well at others when it comes to speed, so make sure you check the score breakdowns to make sure they’ve got what you want.
If you rarely see powder, then I would also check out >>our top All-Mountain-Freestyle snowboards.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m an intermediate in aus riding its carving / groomers with some speed mostly blues
Height is 5’9 and 154lb.
Learnt and still using the Ride Agenda since 2016/custom bindings (based on your advice back then) but its time to upgrade this year and progress in riding skill.
Been looking at the 2024 Nitro Team + 2024 Union stratas but concerned it will be a big step/hard to ride due to stiffness.
Do you feel this good setup and a decent step, something worth getting used to or dial it down with a different combination?
– Same board soft bindings
– different board – same bindings
Hey BY
Thanks for your message.
It will be a noticeable step up for sure, but I think it’s doable. The Team, in my experience isn’t super stiff – more like a 6/10 than a 7/10. You would also be switching to full camber at the same time. Given your style, I think the board would work. It would be about as big a step up as you’d want to take, IMO, but I think it should be doable, with the knowledge that you’ll likely need some time to adapt to it.
Sizing would important to get right (as it always is) – if you could let me know your boot size and the size of your Agenda, that would be really helpful in giving a sizing opinion.
I wouldn’t put your softer custom’s on it though. Softer bindings on a stiffer board tend to not have the response/powder to drive the board properly, so it would likely feel sluggish from edge-to-edge. The Strata’s are a good match, IMO, so they would be a good bet. There are definitely other options that would give you a step up from the Agenda but not as big a step, but I think it’s just at the end of the range I’d go to from the Agenda, as an intermediate rider.
Thanks Nate, For the confirmation
I’m on a 152 and planning to stick with same size and medium strata bindings for 10.5 boots which are softer thirty two double lashed boa
Let me know if you think I should swap something.
Thanks Nate,
I just got 23′ 10.5 Thirtytwo doublelash boa boots which are much softer than my last boots (Rome Infernos) but forced due to fitment. My agenda was 152 and planning the same for the Nitro with Med Stratas.
keen to hear your thoughts, on sticking with the plan or changing up something.
Thanks in advanced!
Hey BY
The 152 should be fine. Would be between the 152 and 155 but given you’re comfortable with a 152, I think it works and certainly within a good range for your specs, IMO. The only thing really is the width, it’s borderline too narrow. Depending on binding angles and how hard you like to carve, that would be my biggest concern size-wise.
The Lashed might be softer than your old boots, but I still found them mid-flexing and I think they match fine with the rest of the setup, so no issues there, IMO.
Hi Nate,
Im an intermediate rider hitting double blue runs and blues here in Australia.
Height is 5’7″ 175lb.
Using the TW 154cm, matched with Union Atlas’ and Burton Photons. I found quickly it was hard to initiate turns compared to my old Salomon Wildcard board i was riding.
Is my setup too stiff or board to big and did I overcommit on my new gear. Only had 3 days on the snow so far.
Hi Amz
Thanks for your message. Can you let me know a couple of extra bits of information.
1. what is your boot size?
2. What was the size of your Salomon Wildcard?
Thanks Nate,
My boot size is 8.5 and the wildcard was 150cm
Hi Amz
Thanks for the extra info. Given that you’re used to a 150 and in what looks like quite a soft board in the wildcard (don’t know much about the board except for he specs I looked up), the TW is a step up in that size. I’ve always found the TW pretty easy to ride but it’s certainly a step up from the Wildcard. But I think you’ve got the right size. I would put you roughly on around a 157 as your “typical all-mountain length” but with 8.5s, I would size down from that for most boards. With the TW I don’t think you should need to size down more than 3cm to the 154 though. I think it’s the best size but it isn’t too surprising you’re finding it harder to initiate turns on compared to the 150 Wildcard, looking at the size and how soft it looks to be. There’s a good chance you just need to get used to the TW. But it might also be that you end up with a preference for softer flexing boards, or shorter boards or maybe hybrid rocker isn’t for you.
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much mate for putting my mind at ease. Definitely hoping to get some more time on my TW this season coming up here in Australia in a few months.
My old Wild card will be retiring and will be replaced with the Bataleon Disaster 151cm. I’m keen to take both boards with me and try compare how I feel on the two of them. Definitely what a better feel for my TW as I do love it.
Thanks again.
You’re very welcome Amz. Hope you have a sick season down under!
Hey Nate! Between the Outerspace Living and Jones Tweaker, which one is more stable (stiffer)? Also curious if one is better for carving and powder. Thanks!
Hi Nick
Thanks for your message.
The OSL is a more stable feeling board and slightly stiffer too. I preferred the OSL for carving. Both very similar in terms of powder, IMO. The Tweaker overall a slightly looser feeling, slightly more playful option vs the OSL.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I am 53 y/o 5’8″ 170 lb . Started snowboarding 2 years ago with Salomon Sight board as per your advice. I am enjoying it very much finishing my second season. Now I feel that I am getting into intermediate territory (probably level 4-5 per your scale)and really want to get into carving.
What board would you recommend ?
Thank you
Michael
P.S
Currently my Sight is 155W , Burton step on Re:Flex bindings medium + Burton Ruler Step On boots 10.5
Hi Michael
Thanks for your message.
Given you are looking to get into carving, I think you could step up into something from:
>>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Pay attention to score breakdowns there to see what you think would suit you best. But given that you’re specifically looking to get into carving, I think going with something with 3.5/5 to 4/5 carving ability (typically anything above that comes with a stiffer board – and will likely be too challenging at this point). Size-wise, you may not have to go wide again, depending on the board. Would be happy to give specific sizing suggestions to individual boards, if you were able to narrow down to your top 2-3 options.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate ,
I want to stay with my boots and bindings as they are medium flex. I was asking about boards that you would recommend for me to start carving .
Thanks in advance
Michael
Hi Michael
My apologies, put the wrong link in there! Here is the link I meant to put in.
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
I think there are a few on there that should strike a good balance between good carving without being a board that’s stepping up too far. But I think you could step up to some of these above the likes of most in the intermediate list here, which aren’t as good as some in the list at the link above for carving. i.e. Terrain Wrecker/Typo, more of a 3/5 for carving, in my experience and some in the list I (this time correctly) linked to are better carvers, without being too much of a step up, like something stiffer might be. Also with medium boots/bindings, something too stiff wouldn’t match them as well either.
Hi Nate ,
Narrowed down to (no preference so far):
BURTON PROCESS FLYING V
LIB TECH TERRAIN WRECKER
Jones Mountain Twin
YES Standard
Not sure if flex level 6(last 2) is suitable to me.
Could you help with the right size for me 154, 156W or 157 ?
Hi Michael
I think you could get away with the Mountain Twin and Standard at a push. The Process Flying V and Terrain Wrecker would be the easier transitions, but if you wanted to step up to the slightly stiffer and more stable MT or Standard, I think it’s doable.
Size-wise, I would go:
– Process Flying V 157
– Terrain Wrecker 157
– Jones Mountain Twin 157
– YES Standard 156
Hi Nate ,
Just tried my new YES Standard 156 out in icy Est cost conditions. Feels great. Took time to get used to it but really happy with the board now.
Thank you again for your advice .
Hi Michael. Thanks for the update and awesome to hear you’re getting on with the board now!
Hi Nate,
First of all thank you!
Last year I asked you for guidance and I bought a Salomon sight 22 (155w) with union contact pro which I’m enjoying a lot!
Now point is … as per your level table I assume I’m 4-5 level ending beginner starting intermediate. I feel comfortable S turning most of times. Few of them still C but increasing speed. Usually blue and some red roads on resorts (Europe).
Now my question is about speed. I do not feel very comfortable when riding “fast”. Obviously because I’m not professional but could it be possible because that table is softer than I expected for going faster? Which feels me insecure.
Should I start thinking on medium table and bindings?
About me. 1.77cm, 81kg (should go down). When young I skate some years I think I moved forward easier thanks to this.
I took 1 snowboarding class + 7 or 8 alone with before equipment.
Regards,
David
Adding here I read about Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker 23 and thinking on updating to it on 157 size using same bindings (union contact pro L). Looks lovely one ! Haha
Boots are 11 US (thirty two double boa) low profile.
If so do you think I should go to 156W instead? Not sure if 156w will fit on my Towcar because of width max 30cm. Current Salomon sight 22 155w it’s just on the limit and it looks very similar to WT 157.
I’m on your hands. Should I stay quiet or buy new table? 🙂
Thanks,
David
Hi David
Thanks for your messages.
The 157 might be doable in the TW, but it’s borderline for your boots. If you’re not really carving deep and you have +15/-15 binding angles or similar, then you might get away with it, but it’s pushing it. Whilst the 157 TW isn’t much narrower than the Sight 155W, I think if you were going to upgrade, you’d want to get a board that’s going to give you a bit more room width-wise, to grow into deeper carves. Also, the TW is going to give you better stability at speed and I think it’s a board you would like at speed more than the Sight, for sure. But it’s a fairly subtle improvement, IMO. I would be inclined to ride the Sight for a little longer, hone your technique a little more and then upgrade to something a little better at speed, if you think speed is going to be a big part of your riding. If you did decide to go for the TW, I’d be leaning 156W.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks man I’ll continue with sight until I really feel I need a new one. I’ll go to snow 6-8 times this month probably I’ll learn more.
For curiosity, what would be evolution from sight in terms of all-mountain table? In a future I mean.
TW would be a good replacement or should I go for something different? One of the functionalities I considered very interesting was Magne-traction edges for hard/icy snow.
Thanks again!
Hi David
I think the TW would work as a good evolution, but if speed is something important to your riding, I would go for something a little better in speed. Something like the Jones Mountain Twin, YES Standard, Nitro Team Gullwing, Bataleon Goliath. That kinds of thing. Still not too going too advanced, but a little better in terms of stability at speed, in my experience. Or if you wanted magnetraction, then something like the GNU Rider’s Choice or GNU Essential Service would be worth looking into as well. The other boards I mentioned are still good in hard/icy conditions, particularly the YES Standard, IMO.
Nate, I am really enjoying your reviews.
I am looking to buy my first board.
After reading your ability article, I think I’m somewhere around an intermediate 5. I really enjoy cruising and finding the powder in the trees. I’m 6’ tall and about 225 and wear a size 13 shoe. What board and bindings would you recommend for me?
Hi Brynden
Thanks for your message.
I would be looking at something like:
– YES Typo 163W
– Slash Brainstorm 163W
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker 161W
– Capita Outerspace Living 161W
With the Brainstorm and TW a little better in powder than the other 2, IMO, so given you like finding powder, I’d be leaning towards one of them.
There are a bunch of other options, if you were wanting to take a bit more of a step up, but more suitable for intermediate 6, IMO, but I think those 4 would be really good options.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
fantastic website for every snowboarder!
Quick question,
i would consider myself a Intermediate Level 5. I ride maybe 7 days a year and mostly resort/all-mountain but i would love to explore more the park. I was thinking about getting my as my first board a GNU Money with UNION STR bindings but i’m not sure about the board size. I’m 150 lbs – 5.9 ft. size 10 boots (dc control) should i get the 152 or 156? I was thinking the 152 but i’m scared with my boots size i should go for the 156.
Thanks!!
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
I would put your standard all-mountain length” at around 155 but Given you’re looking to get more into park and given an intermediate 5 level, I would be leaning 152. In terms of width, I think you should be fine. I haven’t measured the Money but assuming it’s similar in width to other similar GNU boards, I’d say you’d be looking at around 261mm at the inserts – which I’m comfortable with with 10s. I do ride +15/-15 angles and that angle does give you leeway. But unless you’re riding like a really flat back binding angle (i.e. 0-6 degrees) and carving pretty deep, then I’d say you’d be fine.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
We had several conversations last year. How can I find those on here?
New question: what are your board recommendations for intermediate boarder seeking more stability going down blues and blacks (straight down and also fast carving) up to 35-40mph.
I currently will hit above 25mph (max speed so far 37mph) and will start to feel like my board is giving way. if i’m on flat ground i can ride out of it, but if i’m going down the mountain on a blue or black i often have to just completely stop, and start again.
. i know this is also due to my snowboarding form and confidence, but I also know some boards are way more stable than others.
Also, I use nidecker supermatic step-in bindings.
Final question, in addition to your recommendations, what would be your arbor recommendation for this rider?
Hi Derek
Thanks for your message.
Looks like our previous conversations were on this post here. If you go to that and search for your name you should be able to find those. Looks like it was around February/March last year.
Could you let me know the board and the length of board you’re currently riding – this will help to make a recommendation.
Hi Nate,
This is one of the best websites/blogs I’ve ever seen. The information you provide, the level of knowledge, and the connection with your audience are unbelievable!!
I know you have some affiliate links, but do have a link where I can send you a tip? I really want to support your work!!!
I’m a beginner level 3 based on your article. I’m 179cm, 72kg and my largest foot is 275mm.
I’ve just picked up a pair of Van Aura Pros (Size 10). These were easily the most comfortable boots I’ve tried. Now, it’s about finding a board and bindings.
I spent a few days last season on a rental (Salomon Wildcard 155) and another week last week on a rental (Salomon Huck Knife 162) and I had a much worse time last week because I think the Huck Knife was really not an appropriate board for me (I found out at the end of the week the board is for a rider much more advanced than me and 90kg+!!)
I’m now considering the following boards:
– Capita Pathfinder Rev 155
– Capita Outerspace Living 155
– Yes Basic 155 (or maybe 156W?)
– Yes Typo 155 (or maybe 156W?)
And bindings:
– Burton Genesis
– Burton Malavita
For now, I really want to enjoy the mountains and just have fun on all the groomer slopes. I would like to be good enough to enjoy all of the different runs in the resort. I’m not quite there yet, but all mountain would probably be my focus.
Last week I was in Grindelwald, Switzerland and it was icy every morning (not that fun especially on the Huck Knife!) but conditions were better in the afternoons after the sun had hit the slopes for a while.
So, with this in mind, I think the Yes Typo is probably the board I’m leaning towards based on conditions I’ve seen and my experience level. Based on my dimensions, I’m thinking 155 (due to my weight) or maybe 156W (due to my shoe size?).
Of course, I would love to get your opinion on the board and bindings for me.
I would also really like to understand the downside of the Yes boards. What am I giving up by choosing them over the other Capita boards?
It seems like boards with icy edge technology have no downside? Why don’t more manufactures use magne traction or underbite technology like Yes?
Hi Andrew
Thanks for your message.
Yeah Huck Knife too advanced for your level IMO and 162 way too big. I should be surprised they put you on that, but I’ve heard some shockers of what boards some rental places will put people on.
I agree that the Typo would be a really good bet for what you’re describing and would match the Aura Pros and either Genesis or Malavita’s well. For bindings I would be leaning Genesis for you – but they’re both good for that setup.
Size-wise, with 10s – and Aura Pros are fairly low profile too, I don’t think you need to go wide. And length-wise I think 155 is just right for you, so that’s what I would go with.
The other 3 on your list are also really good options, IMO. Given you think you’re heading more all-mountain, then the Typo over the Basic. And the OSL over the Pathfinder Rev. But yeah, in my experience the Typo/Basic are better in icy conditions than the OSL/Pathfinder, so if you do get icy conditions fairly regularly, then I’d be leaning Typo.
Thanks for considering a tip. Much appreciated. A couple of ways you can support the site. You can give a tip here or become a patron here.
Thanks Nate, you’re a legend!
I’ve sent you a tip and joined the Patreon. As I mentioned, this website is amazing, any question I have about snowboard gear and setup is all answered here!
I picked up the Typo and Genesis bindings last week and spent the weekend trying them out. And, I couldn’t be happier!! They felt fantastic. Board feel, flex and response felt just right for me and my skill level. 😊
I’m still a bit curious to know what the advantage is for not having a technology like magne traction or underbite. Is it simply cheaper to manufacture? Or do edges without wavy patterns perform better in certain conditions?
Thanks again!!
Hi Andrew
Big thanks for the tip and becoming a Patron. It really helps and is highly appreciated.
Awesome to hear that the setup is working well for you.
When something like magnetraction is quite aggressive – lots of waves and highly pronounced, then it can start to feel “grabby” in softer snow. But I’ve only noticed that when the edge tech is particularly pronounced. With most edge tech I’ve not had issues with grabbiness in softer snow, so I don’t really see the benefit in having nothing. Particularly as there aren’t a lot of riders that only ever see soft conditions or perfect corduroy.
Hey Nate! I’m looking for All Mountain/Freestyle Board to add next to my 152 Salomon Dancehaul. I want to start getting better in park, I REALLY wanted the Dicey but they have no Wide version of it. Is there something similar like that in that is medium flexish that I can learn and progress with? Hoping it to be pretty stable, playful and somewhat forgiving for a lower intermediate. Some of the ones I’ve been looking at are the Tweaker, Assassin, MTN Twin and DOA. Any other suggestions would be fantastic! thanks!
6’2 180lbs with size 12 Feet. Boots : Photons with Malavitas bindings.
Thanks!
Hi Nick
I would be leaning Tweaker or Assassin from those for what you’re describing and your level. I would add the Bataleon Whatever into the mix.
Also note that the Dicey is wider than it looks, just looking at the waist. E.g. I measured the 156 at 271mm at the inserts. Which is wider than the YES Typo 156W, which is more like 267mm at the inserts.
Thanks Nate, always appreciate the advice! I’m thinking of going with the Assassin since it’s on sale and I’m so familiar with the Dancehaul. Is this years Assassin stiffer than previous years?
Hi Nick
We didn’t retest the 2023 Assassin, so couldn’t say 100%, but as far as I know the Assassin is the same that it’s been for the last few models.
How’s it going Nate?
We spoke in 2020 under the Capita OSL comments section. To recap, I have an 2020 OSL 158 with Burton Ruler US11/UK10/29cm (wide) boots using Union Contact Pro L bindings. I’ve gained some weight so I’m now 184 cm/around 82kg (with all my gear on 🙂
I’ve done over 20 days of riding (unfortunately, my country doesn’t have snow during the pandemic) and would consider myself somewhere between Intermediate 5-6. Riding mainly groomers all the way to blacks (“but it’s not always pretty!”) and just starting to venture off-piste into the trees. My preference is leaning towards high speed carving but I’m still learning new stuff/tricks i.e. trying side slip jumps, starting to learn how to ride switch, and small jumps in the park (rare for now though).
That said, I have to confess I’ve never felt I’ve had 100% control of the board throughout my learning process. I mean I just don’t feel “as one” with the board.
Here are some issues I’ve had with my OSL:
1. The tail tends to get stuck when I’m doing some lazy turns / edge to edge in mellow slopes. It feels like my board is too long. I can overcome this by putting more weight to the front but I just can’t relax. This ends up quite dangerous for me along the cat trails at the end of a tiring day, and I have to be mindful of this as well when learning tricks.
2. Lack of manoeuvrability in tight spaces for e.g. among the trees, esp in uneven snow. Could be related to 1.
3. Chatters quite a bit when carving. Found it difficult to go faster when I wanted to.
Overall I’ve found it hard to relax when learning on this board. I mean I can ride comfortably now but all it takes is a momentary lapse of concentration and my butt will be on the snow 🙁
Do you think a change of board (and bindings) would help in my situation? Or is this down to my lack of experience, and I should persist with my current setup till I have total control of it?
If this is indeed a hardware issue, I’m prepared to trade-in my current board + bindings when I’m in Japan next month.
Thanks, as always.
Hi Phil
Good to hear from you again.
For what you’re feeling I think it would be a good idea to look at something like the Bataleon Goliath or Jones Mountain Twin. They have uplifted bases at the contact points which should help you to relax and lessen the chances of catching your tail. But at the same time they should feel stable enough at speed. You could look at the likes of the Bataleon whatever or Jones tweaked if you wanted things really easy but they wouldn’t give you as much stability at speed. At this stage I wouldn’t go stiffer/more aggressive than the Goliath or mt. Size-wise I think you’re good around the same length.
Because of your boot size, it’s probably safest to go wide but if you haven’t been having any drag issues on the 158 osl, then you might be ok. Particularly with something like the mt 157, which is quite wide for a regular width.
One more thing I should mention. Some capita boards come with a structured base, which can help with glide, particularly in powder but can also sometimes effect how easily a tail can slash. If you run your fingernail, in the heel to toe direction, across the base and you can feel a texture to it, rather than being smooth, then the first thing you could try is getting a base grind to remove that structure. I’ve heard from a couple of people who have had this issue with the capita doa and doing a base grind has made a big difference to how they can slash their tail. This might be the first thing to check.
Hope this helps
Thanks again for your inputs.
Jones MT is indeed one board I’m keen on, though if I do change my board I’m gonna play it safe and go wide (if you recall, a tiny part of my Union Contact Pro (L) footbed has already exceeded the edge at -15/15).
However, it’s not so easy to find wide sizes in Japan but I’ll try to find that elusive 159W recommended by Jones for my 11 boot size. There’s a MT “Far East Limited edition” offering a narrower stance by narrowing the position of the insert hole by 2 cm which I’m quite keen as well, but it only comes with max 157.
Regarding Goliath, is there any big difference between Plus and non-Plus versions? I’m seeing a 158W non-Plus version on sale and might go for this if I can’t get a MT wide.
Even if I fail to get a wide board, I should still be changing out my Contact Pros bindings so would greatly appreciate any recommended bindings for these boards.
Lastly, I ran my fingernail across the base – felt a vvvv slight, almost negligible texture but not sure if it’s just the wax.
Thanks as always.
To add, just found a Capita Mercury 158W available at my local shop. How would this compare in my situation vs the two boards (MT, Goliath) you’ve recommended?
Hi Phil
The Mercury is a more challenging ride than the MT and Goliath, IMO, so for what you’re describing, I think it’s less suitable.
I was thinking the non-plus Goliath actually. I think you’d be alright on the plus version too, but the non-plus version is supposed to be a little softer flexing (I haven’t ridden it to know by how much, but I think it’s pretty subtly so), so a little more mellow. You’d still be OK with the plus version, but I’d actually be leaning the non-plus version for what you’re describing.
In terms of bindings, I think something around the 5/10 to 6/10 flex range is a good way to go for either the Goliath, Goliath+ or MT. If Goliath+ or MT, then ideally 6/10, but 5/10 would still work fine. If you wanted to stick Union, then I’d look at either the Ultra or Strata or if you wanted to go with something without the mini-disc, then the Force would also be a good bet. From other brands there are plenty of options in that flex range. For some really good options check out the following:
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the awesome site! I have spend hours and hours checking out this site!
I am high 5 – low level 6 intermediate (switch on blues, trying to carve and doing some down-weighted turns, not that comfortable on blacks with icy patches). I have been riding a +12 years old Burton UNINC ( WILL WORK 4 PEACE) board for the last 10 years.
It is time for an upgrade and I am a bit undecided on what to get. Some of my options are:
-Yes Standard (not sure if I should go for an easier board)
-Yes Typo
-Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
-Jones Mountain Twin
-Nitro Team Gullwing
I’m a 30 years old male, 63kg (~140lbs), 1,7m (5 foot 7 inches)height and footsize EUR 42(9-9.5US). I’m more inclined towards the Terrain Wrecker due to my issues on icy patches on steep reds and blacks (groomers), but not sure if I am leaning too heavily on this ice issue. I usually go snowboarding in the Alps, which are near to where I live.
Most of my friends go on skis, so I would like a board on which I feel comfortable going fast, but with a bit of playfulness to go switch and do some natural jumps, ollies, and (maybe?) try butter on the blue slope when going on my own. I am not that interested in the park, perhaps I would go for half a day in the season…
For bindings I am looking at the Supermatic from Nidecker. They feel a bit pricey, but I really love the concept and reviews are quite good for someone around my level.
I would love to get your opinion! Thank you!
-Alex
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
In my experience the Standard and Typo are as good as the TW in icy conditions. The MT and Team Gullwing aren’t far off either, but not quite at the same level as the first 3. So I wouldn’t go TW solely on icy edge hold.
The Standard, MT and Gullwing are the better boards when it comes to stability at speed over the TW and Typo, in my experience. The TW and Typo are also the more playful options, so there’s a weigh up there. But that said, the Standard, MT and Gullwing aren’t without their playfulness, they’ve still got some playfulness for sure. As a level 5/6 I don’t think those 3 would be too much board for you either, assuming you size them right. The Typo and TW are slightly easier rides, but sounds like you’re at a level that you would be fine on the other 3. Typo and TW are easier to butter, but the other 3 aren’t super hard to butter or anything, in my experience.
Size-wise, I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around 152. For the boards you’re looking at, I would go:
-Yes Standard: 151 (though you could also go 149 for this one. Even though the 245 waist width sounds narrow, it’s still going to be around 257-260mm at the inserts (depending on stance width) – but I’d be leaning 151 anyway, but the 149 isn’t wrong either).
-Yes Typo: 152
-Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker: 152
-Jones Mountain Twin: 151
-Nitro Team Gullwing: 152 (could be borderline width-wise – would probably be OK, but pushing it in terms of potentially being too narrow)
Hope this helps with your decision
PS: Keep working on those down-unweighted turns – they’re a game changing in uneven terrain.
Hi Nate,
I went with the Standard 151 as you recommended and the first day felt fantastic! Thank you very much for the recommendation!
Butters feel easier than with my previous board, but still need to put more practice on them. Trying Ollies felt pretty good, and riding switch was definitely smoother (need to force myself more to practice)
The Nidecker Supermatic bindings are fantastic for all-mountain intermediate rider. I could ride almost directly from the chairlift down the slope without stopping… what joy!
Hey Alex.
Thanks for the update. And awesome to hear that you’re new setup is working well!
Hi Nate
By far the most informative and easy to understand review site out there, so thank you for that!
Wondering if you can help me – currently own a Yes Basic which I’m looking to upgrade. I’m stuck deciding between the Typo and the Terrain Wrecker. I’m 6’2″, 90kg and a size 11.5 (US) boot.
I’m the low end of intermediate, riding style is mainly on groomers but I do want a board that’s quite fun/playful as I want to progress on the freestyle side of things. Enjoy carving and linking turns at high speed, but by know means a bomber!
If there’s another board you want to throw into the mix then feel free – any recommendations on sizing for the preferred board would also be appreciated.
Thank you in advance for the help!
Chris
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
I’m going to state the obvious a little bit here but between those two, I think it depends on if you want to stick with a similar feel to your current board or if you want to try something a bit more different. The Typo is a souped up Basic essentially. It’s going to give you more performance for sure, but the overall personality of the board is similar. You won’t need much, if any, time to adapt to it. The Terrain Wrecker has a different feel – it’s got that rocker between the feet and that gives it that pivot point which makes it feel a little looser. Both boards are quite playful, but the TW has more of that looser feeling (not ultra loose, but looser) versus a more stable feeling on the Typo.
Size-wise, I’d be looking at the 161W for the TW and for the Typo it’s between the 159W and the 163W. Not sure what you’re Basic is but I’m assuming it’s one of those. Between the 2 sizes the 159W is going to be the more playful, freestyle focused option, that’s more maneuverable, but not as good in terms of stability at speed or float in powder as the 163W would be. I would put your “standard all-mountain” length at around 162, so the 163W is closer to that, but depends on whether you want to size down a little for more maneuverability and playfulness (noting that it’s already a maneuverable playful board).
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for the quick reply Nate – helped a lot! I’m going to switch it up and go for the TW in the 161W – live in Yorkshire so it feels the right thing to do with the board graphics. Appreciate the help 👍🏻
You’re very welcome Chris. Hope it treats you well and you have an awesome season!
Cheers Nate,
first of all thank you so much for all the information you put out there, your website is awesome!
I am a high beginner/low intermediate according to the guide and I am 6’2 weighing about 170. My shoe size is 10.5. I am looking for a board mostly for groomers that I can also use for powder days (just getting into it and need more practice to properly ride trees etc.) Not into park riding and I don’t think I will get into it any time soon. I was thinking either the 157 Lib Tech Terrain wrecker or the Cold brew. Would you think that makes sense or would you recommend something different?
Thank you,
Thore
Hi Thore
I think the Terrain Wrecker would be a great choice for what you’re describing. I haven’t tested the Cold Brew yet, so couldn’t say for sure, but based on specs, it looks like it would be mellow enough for your level. But yeah, for what you’re describing I think the TW would work really well. The Cold Brew probably, but having not tested it, couldn’t say for sure.
Size-wise, I think you’re bang on with the 157.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
Thanks a lot for the fast reply! I am now also throwing the Jones Frontier 159 in the mix as well. How does it conpare to the Terrain Wrecker. Would it be too Hard to maneuver for my level? Also I am planning on using the rome united Bindung and the Burton moto boots i got for my First board. Would the soft flex be an issue for the stiffer boards or can I use them?
Thanks again and Best regards,
Thore
Hi Thore
The Frontier might be doable, but it’s certainly a step up from the others. Also if you go with that boot/binding combo, I would stick with the TW. The Frontier, in my experience is a bit stiffer than the TW (5/10 flex on TW vs 6.5/10 flex on the Frontier) and the Moto/United wouldn’t pair great with the Frontier. They’re still on the soft side for the TW, but they’re doable and certainly a better match with the TW than the Frontier, IMO. I’ve had 4/10 flex bindings (which the United are rated at – though I haven’t tested them, so not sure in reality) on the TW and they’ve felt good with it, so I would be happy enough with that combo. I think ideally stiffer boots, but the Moto will work – and will certainly, IMO, work better with TW than with Frontier.
Hey Nate,
I have been riding for a good few years now on a K2 illusion, and would like to get something new. I’m am looking for something good for groomers and would like to get better with my butters. Not really a park guy More of just fun and cruising and carving. I have been looking at the burton process Flying V, but have never rode on a hybrid but am looking for some outside opinion. I’m 5’6 at 175lbs. And ride on a 152.
Hi Jake
Thanks for your message.
The Process Flying V is an easy to butter board and fun to cruise on, in good snow conditions – and for doing tricks etc. But it can feel quite loose. If that’s a feeling your going for, that’s not necessarily a bad thing but it would be a big change from traditional camber. Going with a Hybrid camber (where the camber is in between and under the feet) would be an easier hybrid profile to get used to (as opposed to the Hybrid Rocker, like the Process Flying V, which has rocker between the feet). But yeah, if you’re looking for a playful, looser, easy to pivot feel, then the Process Flying V could work. The Process (camber) could work as well, if you wanted a bit more of a stable feel. It’s still quite playful, but has that camber between the feet.
Size-wise, if you could also let me know your boot size.
Hi Nate,
I have been riding for almost 20 years now on a Rossi Scope. I figure I got my money’s worth and would like to explore a new board. 🙂
I do not spend much time in the park, but otherwise I am all over the mountain. I really enjoy a good tree run, moguls are fun, and fast blue cruisers when my kids are with me. I honestly couldn’t tell you if the Rossi I have is stiff or has a lot of flex because I’ve never been on anything else, if that makes sense. I’m curious what you would recommend for an advanced rider.
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
Taking into account that you like trees and moguls and don’t do much freestyle, but do some, and want at least a decent amount of stability at speed, by the sounds of it, I’d look at:
– Arbor Shiloh Camber (unless you want something really good in powder, which the Shiloh Camber lacks a little bit).
– Bataleon Thunderbolt
– Bataleon Goliath Plus
– Nitro Team Camber (like Shiloh not the best in powder, not sure if you need something that’s good in powder or not)
– Burton Custom Camber (ditto Team Camber)
– Jones Mountain Twin
– YES Standard
– Jones Mind Expander
– Capita Navigator
– Capita Kazu
– Lib Tech Ejack Knife
I would check those out. I know it’s a lot of options, but there are a lot of options for what you’re describing. There are reviews for all of those on this website, it you wanted to check them out. Happy to offer what I think would be the best sizing, if you were able to narrow down to 2-3 boards, would just need your height, weight and boot size. And also, since you’ve been riding the same board for so long, the size of your Rossi Scope.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, I’ve narrowed it down to either Jones, Capita, or Yes. Along my research path I also read about the Jones Flagship and Ultra Mtn Twin, and Capita Mega Merc I don’t do any buttering or jibbing and much rather spend time in the trees or bumps, or carving my way through the groomers. If powder is present, I enjoy that too although I’ve struggled with my present board. I don’t need to ride switch, as I only use that to get out of a jam. Based on the definitions on your website, I find the Aggressive All Mountain or Freeride styles most appealing.
My Rossignol Scope is a 162, and I am 5’10”, 170lbs, and foot size is 27cm.
I greatly appreciate your insight as I begin to focus on our shortlist. Thanks!
Dan
Hi Dan
Thanks for your message.
One thing that’s worth noting is that a lot of more aggressive boards can be hard work in the trees. For example the Mega Merc I found hard work in the trees, so that’s something I would be cautious with when looking at freeride/aggressive all-mountain. That said, I found the likes of the Jones Flagship and YES PYL to be good in trees. One caution with the PYL is that the ’23 model is a little mellower and a little easier to ride in trees than the ’22 model, so I would be leaning ’23 model, if you can with that one. The Flagship also got a lot better in trees, but that happened with the 2020 model, so you could look at a past season model of that, if you could find one in a 2020 or more recent. Ultra Mountain Twin is a little more work in trees, but not bad. But given you don’t ride switch, I’d be leaning Flagship if you went Jones.
From Capita, I would be leaning Kazu, based on your new comments. As I said, I found the Mega Merc to be quite taxing in the trees, but I found the Kazu good there.
From YES, as mentioned the PYL ’23 model, I think would be your best bet, based on what you’re describing.
Perfect, that is very helpful! I think my last question then is regarding the length and width. I mis-keyed in my earlier note and meant to say 28cm foot size, and I presently have an old Burton Moto boot, size 10. I will stick with a size 10 but am looking at stiffening a bit to the Photon BOA. Given that, would you recommend any particular lengths with these boards?
– Capita Kazu
– Jones Flagship (2020-2023)
– YES PYL (2023)
Thanks!
Hey Dan
I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at around a 158. But given that you’re used to a 162 and also that these are freeride boards, which you can ride a little longer, I would say:
– Capita Kazu 160 (but the 157 would certainly work if you wanted to keep it more nimble)
– Jones Flagship (2020-2023) – 161 (but the 158 would also work)
– YES PYL (2023) – 159
Hi Nate,
My son is turning 16. He has probably snow boarded about 20 times over the last couple years. I would call him beginner/intermediate. He just started two seasons ago. he is 5‘7“ approximately 145 pounds. Size 10.5 shoe.
We live in Connecticut so it’s not super deep powder, some icy spots. He goes onto the side park where you do tricks and turns once in a while. I want to get him a snowboard for his birthday next week but I have no idea what I’m doing!!!
If you have any suggestions whatsoever that would be amazing!!
Hi Kristen
Thanks for your message.
I think something all-mountain freestyle would be a good bet – or all-mountain bordering on all-mountain freestyle. And if it gets icy, then good edge-hold in those conditions is important.
I would look at either the YES Typo, Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker or Never Summer Snowtrooper. Size-wise, I’d put his “standard” length at around 152. As someone closer to the beginner end of the spectrum, I’d typically suggest to size down a bit from that, but given that your son is likely still growing, at least weight-wise, if not height-wise, then going a little long won’t hurt, so the board lasts a bit longer for him, so I’d go back up to around that 152 mark.
Assuming he is in 10.5 snowboards boots, then he’s on the cuff between wide and regular. It may be the case that he might need to go for a wide board in the future, but for now, he should be OK on the regular width. And it can be tricky to find wide boards in that ~152cm range. The 152 Typo is boarderline too narrow, but should be fine for now, particularly as a beginner/intermediate, he’s probably not getting really deep on his carves. Similar for the 152 Terrain Wrecker and Snowtrooper, but I think they’d still be the best sizes. If you were worried about width and worried that his feet have got some growing to do, then something like the GNU Money could work – and comes in a 150W. That or the GNU Headspace 152W, if you could find a 2021 model of it (the 2022 and 2023 models scrapped the 152W size unfortunately).
Hope this helps
Hey Nate! I am not sure what determines if you’re low intermediate or high level intermediate. I usually stick to blues and have tried powder runs before, not so much in between trees as I had a rental for my first full season. It was a 157W K2 (that’s all I know). I’m 5’11 and 177 pounds. Is a 157w okay? Should I go camber or rocker? And if I want something not so hard on my knees would that mean it has to not be so stiff? I mostly cruise on groomers and occasionally attempt side hits and small jumps or easy boxes.
Hi Omar
Thanks for your message.
I would say your probably lower intermediate based on what you’re describing, but you could also check out our skill level post to see if it gives you more clarity.
Unless you don’t really want to carve (carve as opposed to just slashing/skidding turns) and mostly want to ride powder and your not a beginner, then I think it’s worth having some camber in the profile. So something hybrid rocker or hybrid camber would be your best bet, IMO. Full camber can be catchy if you’re not used to it and your technique gets lazy.
Yeah, probably don’t go too stiff if you’re looking for something easier on your knees. But you don’t have to go super soft either. Another thing you could try for your knees is experimenting with binding angles and stance width. Try some different options and see what feels best. Having good shock absorbing bindings and boots will help too.
Size-wise, I think something in the 156-158 range is probably a good bet for you. Whether or not you need to go wide would depend on your boot size. If you could let me know your boot size, I can let you know if I think you should go wide or not.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I am looking to buy my first board. I am 6′, 180lbs, and wear a size 12US. In the past I have gone snowboarding 1-2 times a year and figured it was time to buy. I would say I am at a high beginner/low intermediate lever. I have looked through this list and the beginners list and have found a few boards that would fit my style, All-mountain, but not always in my size. I have seen a few 158W, would that be an issue for me? and or do you have any recommendations for a board?
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
I think 158W would be a really good size for what you’re describing. Anything in that 157W to 159W range would be a good bet, IMO.
I would be leaning towards this list, rather than the beginner list, if you’re high-end beginner bordering on low intermediate, just because it will give you something that will allow you to progress further without having to upgrade too soon.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Wanted to ask your recommendation on a fun, SLOW board. Likely no faster than 15-20mph.
Not sure if this is the right category to look at.
Quick background: successfully taught my wife to snowboard this season after about 10 days… and will continue next season + her niece/nephew.
But that entailed me riding with her, then behind her filming her form, correcting her lines etc. Will likely be the same next season. So slow carves, skids and a little switch.
I did that this year on a Yes Optimistic, Now Drive binding, Thraxis boots… a stiff setup… and not the most fun and comfy going at slow speeds, skidding behind them filming.
So I’m thinking of getting a softer, mid flex, twin/directional board? I’m not sure, I’m not a park guy, and have rode mid-stiff hard chargers for 15 years…
So just wanted to see if you have something to recommend for slow riding!
Thanks!
Hi Andy
Thanks for your message.
Some of the boards here would definitely be suitable for what you’re looking for, but there are lots of others too. Given that you’re not really doing park, something like the Dicey and Basic probably not the most suitable. And given that you want to go mid-flex the likes of the Snowtrooper and Process Flying V you might find a little too soft.
You could also check out:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Given that you want something pretty chill, I’d likely cross off the Niche Story and Capita Mercury, which are a little stiffer and more aggressive than others on that list.
You could also look at:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
But if you’re not doing that much freestyle stuff… but if you’re not really riding powder, these are really good groomer boards, even if you’re not really doing anything freestyle.
Hope this helps
Hey, im looking to get a intermediate board that is fun to carve on and do the odd small jump/trick
My weight is 63kg, 6ft and my boot size is a 12US. Do you have any recommendations for size and board??
Hi Cameron
Thanks for your message. Plenty of options for what you’re describing, but sizing narrows it down quite a bit – for your height/weight, ability and how you want to ride, I would be looking at something around 152-154. But with 12s you’ll want to go wide – in that length range, there aren’t a lot of wide options, so that narrows it down – I would recommend looking into the following:
– Burton Custom Flying V 154W – though not an awesome carver, particularly in hard conditions
– Burton Custom 154W – really nice carver, but a more aggressive board – if you’re a solid intermediate rider though, should work well
– Capita DOA 153W – again though, you’ll want to be solid intermediate – not super easy to ride if you’re more low intermediate
– Never Summer Proto Slinger 154X – more of a freestyle board, but good on a carve for a softer board – but more so for slower speed carves than high speed – a gem for jumps, side hits etc though.
You could do something like the Outerspace Living in the 155W or the GNU Rider’s Choice in 155W – but getting pretty big for your weight, IMO.
Hope this helps
Oh and one more I forgot to mention – the YES Greats 154 – it doesn’t sound wide by it’s waist width but is wider at the inserts than you’d think. This board is a great carver for a twin, so I think it would work well for you. The YES Standard (153) is another option. It’s a little more easy riding than the Greats, but not quite as good on a carve or for jumps, IMO.
Awesome. Thanks heaps Nate. Quick question what are your thoughts on the bataleon Goliath, would that board work for me??
Hi Cameron
I think the board would work for you, but I don’t think the sizing would. You’d have to go to 158W to get on a wide size, which is too big for your weight, IMO.
Hey Nate, hope you have enjoyed this season! I was wondering which of one these boards would be the most forgiving,light, catchfree, easy turning but still stable at medium/high speeds(especially on flat, narrow cat tracks with crud) looking for something all mountain, short smooth turns, and small to medium jumps. Medium flex, to my Genesis bindings. I’m 6’2 180Lbs size 13ft
Capita Living Outerspace
Yes Basic
Neversummer Storm Trooper
Burton Process or Custom Flying (stable even with the rocker in middle?)
Jones Mountain Twin
Solomon Assassin
Thank you!
Hi Nick
I think the best balance of all those things would be the Salomon Assassin and Capita OSL – and the MT would work too. Size-wise, I’d go:
MT – 159W
Assassin – 158W
OSL – 159W
Hope this helps
Thanks for the quick reply and advice! I did narrow it down to the Capita OSL and The Assassin. Which out of those two do you think is less catchy? From what I’ve read the Assassin is a bit stiffer. I’ve ridden the craft and it was a pretty easy board to learn on, but it felt a tiny unstable at certain speeds, would the assassin be similar but stiffer version of that? Thanks for the info, this site is super awesome.
Hi Nick
They’re both fairly similar in terms of catchiness, so I think you’re good there. Knowing that you liked the Craft, I would be leaning Assassin, as it’s a safer bet, given you have experience with something similar. The Assassin is similar to being to being a slightly stiffer version of Craft. Not exactly – there are some other differences, including edge bevel, but there are a lot of similarities too.
hi nate
i was just looking for some advice for a board that would be great on ice and also forgiving with catching edges.
i did a week in france then in austria on my 154 Bataleon Evil twin which is great when there is powder on the piste and can be playful and i never have to worry about catching an edge which is my main thing
but what i noticed is that when there hasnt been any fresh snow and the pistes are icy that its pretty difficult to control going over ice and knocks the confidence
i spoke to some guys on the mountain and they were impressed that i managed to get down some black runs that were icy on the board i had but i did say that chatters alot on the ice. and this was on a newly edged board.
they recommended lib tech due to the technology of their boards and how they handle the ice. Jones was also mentioned too.
would you recommend any other brands or boards specifically?
just for info
im 5’8, 70kg, 9.5 thirtytwo double boa boots, burton cartel bindings, 5 weeks experience, like to ride all mountain – looking to pick up more speed/carve/off piste
thanks again for your articles, helped me choose my bindings a couple of years back on your advice
Hi Richie
Thanks for your message.
In my experience, the best brands on icy snow (let’s call them tier 1 or 5/5 in icy conditions) are:
-GNU
-Lib Tech
-Niche
-Rossignol
-Yes
Note that not every board within those brands is as good as the next but those brands boards tend to be at least tier 2.
And the brands that are still really good, but not quite as good in icy snow (let’s call them tier 2 or 4/5):
– Arbor
– Jones
– Never Summer
– Slash
And other brands that have some boards in tier 2 but not necessary all in the line, but given that you’re looking for good icy conditions boards, sticking to those brands is a good bet.
Size-wise, something around 154 is a good bet too, IMO, so I don’t think size was the issue with your Evil Twin. I haven’t ridden the Evil Twin specifically but my experience with other softer, more park oriented Bataleon boards, is that they aren’t amazing in icy conditions.
Hope this helps
yo thanks for the quick and detailed response, much appreciated.
i’ll start my researching now based on those that you recommended.
last question sorry, of those 5 you mentioned for the better brands, which of those would be best for being catch free on edges when going across flats/traversing.
i had a pretty bad injury from a hire shop board when i caught an edge so im always on my toes with that sort of thing now. i know how to board but its always on my mind even though i do know the basics
thanks again 🙂
Hi Richie
Within those brands some will be more or less catchy than others, depending on the model, so I wouldn’t say there’s specific brands that are more or less catchy from those. As a general rule, more camber, given no uplift at contact points, will end up being more catchy. So for example from GNU/Lib Tech the C3 camber will feel more catchy than the other cambers (but even that I haven’t found super catchy or anything). Feel free to run any specific models by me and I can let you know how catchy or not I found them and if I haven’t ridden them, how catchy I feel they would be based on similar models by that particular brand.
yo nate
so this list is in order of what interests me so far from a couple of days researching off the brands you recommended.
Lib Tech Terrain wrecker (on your list here)
Jones Mind expander twin hybrid camber
Lib Tech T.Rice Orca
Gnu RCC3 (riders choice)
Jones mind expander rocker camber
i think the magne-traction tech sounds like something that is interesting me with the control on ice which is what im looking for.
just for further info i did get to try 2 guys i knows boards (both skate bananas of different years 2020/2021 i think) and even though the boards were 7cm + too big for me i didnt find a problem with catching the edge so maybe im over thinking that part too much.
again thanks for the response
Hi Richie
The Skate Banana is a really catch free board, so I’m not surprised, even when too long, that you didn’t find them catchy.
Of the boards none of them are really catchy, but of them, the Orca and RCC3 would be the most catchy. The Orca has a C2X which isn’t that catchy, but I did find it a little more catchy than other C2X models. The RC C3 has the C3, which as I said previously still isn’t super catchy or anything, but a little more so than other Lib Tech/GNU camber profiles. The Rider’s Choice (C2X model) is less catchy – like I didn’t find it catchy at all.
I think the rest of those would work well for what you’re looking for.
Hi, I ended up choosing Nidecker Merc 159W because of a good price, don’t know much about this brand of boards? Not sure if it’s right for me? Also, which retainer is better to choose? or have a better recommendation
1. Flux PR,
2. Union Flite Pro
3. Nidecker Muon-X
4. Union Force
Thanks!
Hi George.
I haven’t ridden the Nidecker board, but I did test a few Nidecker boards this season and based on them and the specs of the Merc, I think it should be fine. And the sizing looks like it should work well too.
For bindings, the Flite Pro will be too soft for the board, IMO.
I haven’t ridden the Flux PR or Nidecker Muon-X, but based on specs they would be suitable for the Merc.
The Union Force would work well for the Merc, IMO and are all round really good bindings. Nothing spectacular about them, but really solid and all round good bindings – and the flex should match the board well, IMO.
Hello, I found and bought the never summer snowtrooper 160x you recommended, returned the Nidecker merc.binding can I use Union Flite Pro?
thanks！
Hi George
You could use the Flite Pro on the Snowtrooper. Ideally you’d go a touch stiffer than the Flite Pro, IMO, but it’s certainly doable.
Hello, I’m learning snowboard this year, and now I can change blades to go green. I don’t like fast gliding, I like slow, easy and smooth gliding. I basically don’t go to the park for sliding, and occasionally flat flowers. I used the 2009 burton mayhem158 for beginners. I am 6.15 feet tall, weigh 170 lbs, snowshoes are us12. Want to buy my first board, I don’t know anything about snowboards, read your review, there are some beginner and intermediate boards listed, which one is best for me, or is there a better one ‘s recommendation (including size), thank you! My native language is not English, sorry!
1. yes typo
2. yes basic
3. slash brainstorm
4. jones mountain twin
5. gnu riders choice
6. never summer snowtrooper
7. Rossignol Circuit
8. Arbor Foundation
9. Lib Tech skate banana
10. capital doa
Hi George
Thanks for your message.
Given what you’re describing, I would be leaning Yes Basic, Never Summer Snowtrooper or Lib Tech Skate Banana.
Given you’re not a complete beginner by the sounds of it, the Circuit and Foundation might be boards you grow out of too quickly. The DOA is probably too advanced, IMO. The Brainstorm, Typo, Mountain Twin and Rider’s Choice are all doable and you could work with them I think, but I think the Basic, Snowtrooper or Skate Banana are your best bets. Note that the Skate Banana has quite a loose feel. If you like the idea of that, then it’s good choice – if not, then the other two would be better.
Size-wise, I think something in the 157-159 range is good for you – you’ll need to go wide with US12 boots.
Hope this helps
Thanks!!
Nate – this site is amazing – one of the best resources for Snowboarders.
That said I feel like I’m paralysed by choice.
I’m 37 and a low intermediate rider (a 5 according to your scale) returning after a bit of hiatus looking for my first board to progress from rentals. Stats are 185cm, 80kg and a size 11 boot (DC Mutiny).
I’m looking for something all-mountain-freestyle with a probably bit more of a focus on the freestyle, playful. I’m based in the UK so would actually do most of my riding at an indoor slope and would look to improve on the rails and small jumps there as well as butters etc.
Hoping to get a few trips a year in Europe where I would want then want to enjoy ripping around the resort so something that can carve at least a little (e.g. I just got back from a trip to Chamonix and at points had to deal with some pretty icy conditions.)
I’ve been looking at a couple of the Capita boards – Outerspace Living and the Pathfinder Reverse Camber but according to your reviews they might not hold up too well on the ice.
Other boards on the list are the Yes Typo/Basic or the GNU Headspace which all seem to offer something that might hold up better in the ice.
I assume with my foot size I would probably have to go with a wide board for most of these.
Also – am I over thinking the icy conditions thing? 😀
Thanks so much!
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
The Typo/Basic and Headspace would all be better in icy conditions, IMO. But you’d get away with the OSL – but if you did go that way, I’d get the edges sharpened more often to make sure it keeps decent grip. The Pathfinder Reverse is a softer looser board – I think it would be fine for your indoor endeavors, but may not hold up so well in icier conditions. The Pathfinder Camber would be a little better in those conditions – and is still pretty easy going.
The Headspace and Basic are more freestyle oriented, IMO – but you could use them as all-mountain-freestyle, but just don’t expect them to be super stable at speed if you’re looking to rip them pretty fast.
My instinct says Typo for you. It’s still a playful, easy going board, but it’s a little bit of a step up from the others and will handle the resorts better for when you’re looking to ride a little faster and for carving. But it’s still really buttery and suitable for jumps etc.
With 11s, you’ll need to go wide in most instances. With the likes of the Typo (and Basic), the wide sizes aren’t super wide, so they’re a really good option for 11s, IMO.
I would say 159W for the Typo (or Basic) would work really well as an all-round board. The 156W is doable though, if you wanted to keep things more playful/maneuverable.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks so much for your advice Nate.
I’ve picked up a Basic in 159w (got a great deal). I had a real dilemma between the 159w and 156w – but figured I’d appreciate the extra stability from the 159 when riding resorts and in less favourable conditions – just hoping I haven’t sacrificed too much manoeuvrability as I seem to be on the lighter end of their weight range for the 159w.
Bindings wise I’m trying to decide between the Union Strata or Contact Pro – I was leaning toward the Contact Pro to help retain the playfulness, but I also think it might be a little too Freestyle oriented when I hit the resort – what do you think?
As you can see my heart says freestyle but I know that this is my one-board setup at the moment so it needs to be a bit of a jack-of-all-trades and hoping that the Basic even at this length will still be good to learn/progress in freestyle.
Thanks again,
Matt
Hi Matt
I think the 159W should be fine – the weight recommendations on this board are on the higher end of what they probably should be, IMO. I’m a similar weight and would ride the 158 in this board (size 9.5 boots) – and that’s rated the same in terms of weight recommendations, so I wouldn’t be too worried about that.
I think the Contact Pro are the best match for the Basic, but the Strata work too – they’re the stiffest I would put on this board, but still in a range that should work fine, if you wanted to err a little stiffer on your bindings.
Added note:
I’m 6′, 185, size 10 boot and the following brands are available locally:
Burton
Jones
K2
Nicecker
Rossignol
Lib-Tech
Jones
Gnu
Hi Kurt
Thanks for your messages.
Those boards are certainly worlds apart and a big leap to go from the Clash to the E Jack Knife and there’s definitely some happy middle ground between those.
Anything on this list would be suitable (the all-mountain and all-mountain-freestyle options, given that you aren’t going to be doing tricks or anything) and there are many others too that would suit what you’re describing. Given the Brands you’ve got there, I would look at:
– Burton Process Flying V – or even Custom Flying V – just note that I don’t find the Flying V profile great in icy conditions, so if you get them a fair bit, then probably not the best options. The Process Flying V going to be less of a step up versus the Clash so I’d maybe leaning Custom Flying V, which is a little bit more of a step, but it’s way more easy going than the E Jack Knife still
– Jones Mountain Twin
– Rossignol Resurgence or Rossignol One
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker – note that this has a looser feel to the likes of the Mountain Twin and the Rossi options, but not quite as loose as the Flying V options – and not as loose as the Clash
– GNU Rider’s Choice – ditto Terrain Wrecker in terms of being slightly on the looser side
– Nidecker Sensor or Merc – I haven’t ridden these particular Nidecker boards, but looking at specs, I think they would work well for what you’re describing, based on their specs and other Nidecker boards I have tested. Just started testing Nidecker this season, so I haven’t done their lineup yet.
Size-wise, given that you’re not looking to ride too fast or aggressively I would err smaller – not so small that it affects your stability, but a little smaller. I would put you on roughly around a 160/161 as your “standard all-mountain” size, but I think something in that 157-159 range would work well. If you narrow down your options to 2 or 3, would be happy to look at sizing specific to those boards.
Hope this helps
Nate,
I started snowboarding about 6 years ago on a Burton Clash (rocker profile) in my late 40’s. I ride in the upper Midwest on groomed, man-made snow. I have minimal access to powder, will never be in the park, do jumps or tricks, or go fast. I just want to ride all the groomers in control, be able to carve competently, and pick my way down the hill at a reasonable pace.
Last year I moved to a Lib-Tech Ejack Knife (aggressive C3 camber). It’s now obvious the Clash was covering up some technique flaws that the new board punishes brutally. A lesson and lots of practice helped immensely, but I still get slammed occasionally if I lose focus for a second or am slightly off my game.
I’m in my mid 50’s and my body can’t handle that type of abuse. Any recommendations for something that will let me grow my skills, but not put me in the hospital for every bobble?
Thanks, and sorry for the long winded post!
Hello Nate,
This is my second year of snowboarding. I started with Salomon sight as your beginner recommendation and it worked out great. I am planning to pick up a new board now as I started riding switch, jibbing. I am really attracted towards jumps, jibbing, butter etc but I don’t want to leave carving off the table as well. Which of the top 3 would you recommend for me, they all look great to me.
Hi Ruturaj
Thanks for your message.
Each of the OSL, Terrain Wrecker and Typo would work for what you’re describing, for sure.
Between them, the Typo and Terrain Wrecker are the slightly easier to butter options. The Typo and OSL are a little better for riding switch, though the TW isn’t bad in that department by any means. The OSL and TW a little better for jumps, but not much in it. I don’t think there’s a wrong choice between them. Sizing might be one way to help decide. If you could let me know your height, weight and boot size, I can see if anything comes in a better size than the other.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Really appreciate all your reviews. I’m looking to upgrade from my Burton Instigator flat top to a more intermediate level board. I’m mainly just cruising blue groomers and maybe venturing off piste here and there but not really looking to get into much park/freestyle. My main wants are a board that is more stable/damp at higher speeds while still being able to maneuver at slower speeds and on cat tracks and least prone to catching an edge. The biggest need is a board that will perform better in hard snow/icy conditions where I feel that I really over power the Instigator and the tail washes out on me in steeper terrain that is icy. So I have narrowed in on three boards (because I can’t find a Typo or Terrain Wrecker anywhere) and those are either the NS Snowtrooper, Harpoon or the Jones Frontier. I’m really leaning towards the Jones Frontier because it checks off all the main needs but am a little hesitant because it is a little stiffer than the others and predominantly traditional camber, however a lot of reviewers tout this as a great intermediate board. The Harpoon really peaked my interest as a great intermediate option because it’s stable/damp at higher speeds, medium flex, has easy turn initiation and the ripsaw camber in the back will really help with holding and edge in the harder stuff, even though it is more geared towards riding in powder and the Snowtrooper seems to be the safest pick but I feel like it will perform the worst at higher speeds and with edge hold on the steeper icier runs which is my main concern. Given all that I’ve found a Frontier 156, a Harpoon 152 and a Snowtrooper 156. I’m 5’9, 150 and wear a size 9 boot. Of those three which do you feel would be my best option for my next board to help me continue my progression? Also I currently ride Contact Pros on my Instigator do you think those would be fine for the NS Harpoon and Snowtrooper both at a 5 flex? If I go with the Frontier do you think upgrading to the Strata would be better than the Contact Pros because it is a stiffer board?
Thanks! Adam
Hi Adam
Thanks for your message.
It’s true the Frontier is the stiffest of the 3, but not by as much, in my experience, as you’d think. I felt the Frontier at 6.5/10 flex, the Harpoon at 6/10 and the Snowtrooper at 4/10. So to me the Snowtrooper felt a little softer than it’s flex rating and the Harpoon stiffer than it’s rating.
I do agree that the Snowtrooper will be the least stable at speed.
And the Snowtrooper will be the easiest ride too. It’s certainly the most intermediate of the 3. The Frontier is certainly still intermediate, but it’s more solid intermediate – which is the same as I would say for the Harpoon. This list is predominantly aimed at those in the high-end beginner, bordering on low intermediate range. If you’re more solid intermediate, then that certainly broadens your options a lot and the likes of the Frontier and Harpoon are certainly options.
Assuming a relatively solid intermediate level, I would be leaning the Frontier in this case. Partly because it’s a little better in icy conditions, in my experience and partly because it turns a little easier. The Harpoon can be an easier turner, if you size it right, but even sizing down to the 152 it might feel quite big, because of the width, with size 9 feet. I would put your “standard all-mountain” size at around 155. Because of the width vs size 9s, I’d probably want to size it down a little more. Though 148 might be too much. The Frontier is a board you can ride a little longer – it rides quite small for it’s size – so going a little up to the 156 makes sense.
For those reason’s I would be leaning Frontier if you’re more solid intermediate.
If you’re more in that high beginner/low intermediate, then I would still be leaning Snowtrooper. It won’t be as good at speed as the Frontier, but it will be an easier ride to progress on – and is still going to give you a good boost in terms of edge hold in icy conditions and stability at speed versus the Instigator, IMO.
In terms of bindings, if you end up going Snowtrooper, then I would stick with the Contact Pros. If you were to go to either Harpoon or Frontier, then I’d go with a stiffer binding – the likes of the Strata would be a good option.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate that really helps! I would say I’m a solid level 4 edging into a level 5 so just getting to the intermediate realm but a few people I have spoke to have steered me away from the Snowtrooper stating it’s a total beginner board, too soft, wet noodle etc. However I agree with your opinion and think it’s time to part ways with the Instigator and move up to the Snowtrooper to help me get to that upper level intermediate level. Given my stats and riding style I’m thinking going with the 156 over the 154 would be best given I’m looking for more stability would you agree? Also I love my contact pros and they pair great with the Instigator but they feel pretty soft to me, would moving up to the strata be a little too overpowering for the Snowtrooper given it’s softer flex or would the strata offer that board more in terms of response and help with building my confidence in carving on steeper hard pack or icy conditions?
Hi Adam
The 156 is doable – it’s on the bigger side for you, but given what you’re after and that it’s a pretty easy going board (I wouldn’t call it a wet noodle though!) I think the 156 would work.
You could put the Strata on the Snowtrooper. IMO they’re the stiffest you’d want to put on it, but they’re still doable. It will help to make the board more “carvy”, IMO, but shouldn’t quite be to the point that they over power the board or make it too twitchy, but I certainly wouldn’t go any stiffer.
Hey Nate, my new Snowtrooper arrived today and it’s awesome, appreciate the insight! It is definitely stiffer than the Instigator and the perfect step up I was looking for. The Contact Pros might be a little too soft for this board in my opinion so I’m just gonna hang on to those in case I ever get a freestyle board (plus they are not making them anymore from what I read). So I’m thinking either the Cartels or the Flux DS as a slightly more responsive option for carving the groomers. Which of those two would pair best with the ST and be the least twitchy, most comfortable and have the better board feel?
Hi Adam
Thanks for the update and apologies for the slow response – has been a crazy few days!
Yeah, they aren’t doing the Contact Pros for their 22/23 lineup – which is a shame IMO, because I think they fill a good role for certain boards and styles.
Between the DS and Cartel, the DS are slightly softer, but the Cartel won’t be too stiff for the ST to cause it to be twitchy, IMO. Probably wouldn’t go stiffer than them, but they should be good.
They’re fairly similar in terms of board feel, from my experience. The DS doesn’t have anything obvious to help with board feel (like a mini-disc or re:flex baseplate or anything like that) but they still have really good board feel from my experience. I think a softer baseplate and a really thin footbed help there. Comfort-wise they are very similar too, IMO – with the biggest difference being shock absorption. That footbed helps with board feel but not with shock absorption, so the Cartel’s are better there. The DS take it for ankle support and even though they’re a softer binding, they have a little better response.
Hi Nate, Thanks a lot for you amazing blog post. I am an intermediate rider and been snowboarding for past 2 seasons and can see myself doing this for atleast 4-5 more years. I was renting burton ripcord/instigator with flat top all this while. I have started getting more confident on blues but my speed on steeper blues is still slow because I take wider turns. I wanted to buy a good board that would help me progress faster. I looked up a few things online and realized that burton’s purepop and flying V camber are better to avoid catching the edges as compared to pure camber. I was eyeing these 3 boards: process flying V, process camber, custom flying V. Given my ability level and the desire to grow into a better rider, which board would you recommend. Please suggest something outside of burton too. Maybe other brands which have boards similar to process flying V in stiffness, ride style.
Hi Aditya
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, purepop and flying v certainly less catchy than full camber – particularly Flying V.
If you’re a lower intermediate rider, then I would look at the Process Flying V from those options. If more solid intermediate, then the Process Camber or Custom Flying V would be the better choices, IMO. Between the Custom Flying V and Process Camber, the Custom Flying V will give you a looser ride that’s really fun in good conditions, but not as good when things get icy – it will be better in powder than the Process Camber as well. Both a similar flex, but I’d say 5/10 for Process camber and 5.5/10 for the Custom Flying V. The Process a little better for carving.
Outside of Burton, similar-ish to the Process Flying V – but certainly not the same, you could look at the Never Summer Snowtrooper, Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker. They’re certainly not the same, but do have a looser feel to them, with that rocker between the feet, like the Process Flying V.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks a lot Nate. I tried process and custom flying V. Process really helped me improved my ride. All the time on the slopes I was thanking the board and you. But yeah the snow conditions were good when I took out these boards. Will demo process camber next. Hopefully camber doesn’t kick my ass too much. I also posted a new comment on this post seeking advice for a complete setup. Looking forward to your response to that. Also Its amazing and surprising to me that you do this for free. Let me know If I could do anything to support this website. 🙂
Hi Aditya
Thanks for the update.
I have now answered your message on the other post.
You can contribute to the website here. Most certainly not expected, but very much appreciated. Also note that we do earn a small commission if you click on a link for a product and end up buying – so we do earn income from the site in that way too.
Hi Nate, love your site and great reviews!
I’m a newbie in the Snowboarding community, looking for some advice on the
best board for my riding style.
Height 5’9″ 145-150lbs
Size 9.5 Adidas Acerra Boa boots (I normally wear size 9 shoes)
My first time on the slopes was last December, I’ve been to the slopes 4
times now, I would rate as a 3 or 4 on your skill levels.
I did my first 3 days on my friend’s Atomic Polarity 149 with Arbor Cypress
bindings (and can relate to the ratchets being unfriendly), and the angles
were 0 for the right foot and +13-15 for the left foot, so I left them that
way.
My top speed on that board was 36mph, not to mention the board had not been
waxed or sharpened for a few seasons I’d guess (when riding on hard packed
groomers, even doing toeside turns it would slide to the outside edges of
the runs, zero edge hold) but I could ride on slopes with a very slight
angle and keep speed for a fair distance, not sure if this board had a
Sintered base?
I did find a good deal on a K2 Double Wide 155 (with very light wear, not
many scratches) at a pawn shop for $80 so I got it for my first board.;
must be an old model as it has 4×4 mounting pattern.
Also got it a base grind and wax-job from the local shop.
Picked up some used K2 Raider men’s 9 for $65 and used them for the last 2
runs, haven’t ridden the Adidas boots yet.
I liked the stiffness of the Cypress bindings, so I got some Flux XF
Mediums for my setup, based on your recommendations (and used your link to
purchase them, hope that helps out)
I did learn after I had been riding “regular” that I’m Goofy, so I mounted
them with the right foot about +18 degrees and the left around -8 or -11
(duck stance).
Learned the hard way I shouldn’t run the right one at +18 as my board
slipped out (while getting off the lift) and twisted my knee so I set the
right at +11° and left at -8 or -5°.
My K2 board has 1cm (at most) raise in the center but I think it’s a flat
camber board. Has amazing edge hold except I think it’s not too great on
ice. I did learn pretty quickly how to ride Goofy since I mostly rode
“switch” before I got my own board; I’m already getting pretty good at
S-turns and switch-ing during runs.
One thing I have noticed is my board seems to catch edges a little more
than the Atomic did, but this one definitely feels more stable at high
speeds and has better edge hold for sure.
My max speed on this was 42mph (on a groomed blue slope) but I would like
to go up to 50+ if possible.
I am working on learning jumps but this board doesn’t seem too forgiving at
doing approaches, (maybe the flat Camber is causing it?) as I caught an
edge just before the top of the roller, and had to ride over without any
airtime.
I haven’t done any park but may consider some pipe later on, for now I just
want to learn jumps and spins 180s 360s etc.
My priorities for my next board would be these, in order of importance.
1. Maximum Speed and glide-ability on almost flat runs
2. Traction on ice
3. Float in powder (for tree runs mostly) and the occasional Backcountry trip
4. Good for jumps and progressing on
I do have an interest in learning to do flips but if you recommend a softer
flex for that, I may pick one up later for mostly freestyle but for now I’m
not into jibs, pipes rails etc.
I am torn between the Niche Story, Yes Greats and Lib Rasman or T. Rice
boards. I’ve heard some hype on Lib’s boards having the best edge-hold for
icy conditions but don’t know if theirs are the best for high speeds or
gliding on flat areas.
If you have suggestions, I am not opposed to a directional board as long as
it’s good for my style.
If you have any sizing recommendations I would be glad to hear them,
especially if you think I would be better sizing down some for doing tree
runs without losing stability at high speeds.
Hi Jeff
Thanks for your message.
Apart from powder, I would be leaning Greats of those 3 for what you’re describing. It’s not terrible in powder or anything, but for when the powder gets deeper, it can be hard work on the back leg keeping the nose from diving. Really good in icy conditions, in my experience – as good as the better GNU/Lib Tech boards for icy conditions, in my experience – and better than their boards that aren’t top for icy conditions (I’ve found pretty much every one of their boards at least good in icy conditions, but some still better than others).
I really didn’t enjoy the Rasman or T.Rice in trees – found they really want to straight line and took quite a lot of effort and slow to react for shorter/sharper turns. Also not amazing for powder, but I’d say a little better than the Greats. Note also that the Rasman is returning with a 2023 model, but it’s changed quite a bit from it’s predecessor (quite a few changes) so I can’t comment on how that one rides having not ridden it yet – so this is in reference to the old Rasman, not the one that’s coming out for next season.
The Niche Story is going to give you speed, traction on ice and the best of those listed for powder. The biggest question mark around the Story is in terms of trying to learn jumps, 180s etc and also if it’s too much board. It can be a bit punishing of mistakes if your not on your game – would be more challenging to progress on. I mean all of these boards are a stretch for 4 days of riding, but particularly the Story and to a lesser extent the T.Rice Pro and Rasman – but even those would be pushing it. Even the Greats, but it would be the most suitable, IMO. The biggest downside is powder, but if you’re not going to be seeing particularly deep powder, then I think it would work well.
Size-wise, I would go 151 for the Greats. I would put your “standard all-mountain” size at around 154/155, but that assumes an advanced level – and also it assumes an ideal width. With the Greats being wider, it’s something I would size down for. You could even go 149 on that board, if you were using it more for freestyle predominantly. But given that speed is important, the 151 would be the better bet. The 154 getting on the big side though.
If you did want to go Story, the shortest is 156, which I think is getting a bit big, particularly for the flex of the board. You’d likely have awesome speed/stability at speed on it, but there wouldn’t be a lot of control and not fun at slower speeds and hard to progress on. If you were to go T Rice Pro probably 153, but 155 would be doable.
There are certainly other options, but from those I would be leaning Greats 151, if you can get past the powder thing.
Hope this helps
Hey whats up Nate!! Thanks for for ur commitment to helping other snowboarders succeed! With that being said i do need ur advice! Ive been snowboarding several times now and progressing! Im 5’7 and 200lbs size 9 boot. Here is my problem. I have 2 boards- a burton ripcord 154cm and a lib tech box knife i bought on accident not realizing i wanted a directional board. Whats funny is i love the box knife in everything BUT powder. The burton i am now selling. It is a little big and is not responsive like the box knife BUT it does a lot better in poweder. So new powder/ all mountain board im looking for and its narrowed down to a few, jaime lynn, terrain wrecker and the Yes typo. Would you agree with any of these for me being slightly beginner still (considering box knife is more intermediate to advanced)?? Really need advice even if u recommend another board! Thanks brotha!
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden the Jamie Lynn so couldn’t say for sure on that one, but based on it’s specs, it might be a little bit too advanced. The Box Knife has that same C3 camber, but the Jamie Lynn is stiffer by the looks – and also the C3 camber on the box knife is a little mellower with a little bit of early ride in the tip and tail. I don’t think the Jamie Lynn has the same. Between the Terrain Wrecker and Typo, I would be leaning Terrain Wrecker, mostly because it’s a little better in powder, IMO. Otherwise they are both very good for that high-end beginner/low intermediate looking to progress.
Size-wise I wouldn’t consider 154 too big for you. What size is your Box Knife? I would put you on around a 159 as your “standard all-mountain” size – but that assumes an advanced level. For beginner’s I would recommend taking off 3-5cm – and for a more freestyle oriented board like the Box Knife, you can ride it shorter too – but the Ripcord I wouldn’t ride shorter for you. I think the 157 in the Terrain Wrecker and the 155 in the Typo would be your best bets. You could even probably get away with the 158 in the Typo. That said, if you do find the 154 Ripcord on the bigger side, then depending on what size Box Knife you’re riding, then you could maybe size down to the 154 in the Terrain Wrecker, but typically I would go 157 for that one.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Hoping you can give me some advice here!
I’m 45 this year, but getting back into riding after pretty much a 20 year absence. I rode a lot in my 20’s- went maybe 30-50 times a year for a couple years until hernia injury kept me away for years. I recently went on a few day trips and feel like I haven’t lost too much (other than flexibility and courage).
I’m 5’9”, 170lbs, wear a size 10 boot. I rode my old Option Signature 157cm, and while it’s still fine, I hear new gear is much lighter so am looking to try it out.
Im looking for an all-mountain board. I mainly want to ride and carve and hit some lips and kickers nowadays, nothing fancy. I don’t really do park. I do like charging and some switch and would like to get better at butters. I consider myself intermediate, but I might be on the low end of intermediate, not sure. Here in SoCal the snow tends to be packed and icy, and often groomed.
The main board I was looking to get was the Nitro Team Gullwing 157, but wanted to know if I should more be looking at this intermediate list. Would something like the Yes Typo 155 or the LibTech Terrain Wrecker 157 be better suited?
Should I be looking for 157cm or would you recommend 155cm generally? Any other board recommendations would be awesome too.
I recently got a good deal on Union Stratas M, so I picked those up already. Looking to get ThirtyTwo TM-2’s or 3’s for new boots so a board that would go w those would be great. Thank so much for the help!
Hi Terry
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I think the Team Gullwing would be fine. My instinct is that your more of a solid intermediate rider and will likely fairly quickly move up, so I don’t think something like the Team Gullwing is out of reach. Given that you like to charge sometimes, I would be leaning Team Gullwing over TW or Typo just because, in my experience, it handles speed just a little better. Definitely other options that would be suitable, but if you’ve already got your eye on the Team Gullwing, it’s going to work well for what you’re describing, IMO.
Size-wise, I would be looking at around that 156-158 range, so I think 157 is all good. 155 could work, but given that you want to ride fast and don’t really do park, I would try to get in the 156-158 range. Going shorter would make butters easier, but overall as a good all-rounder size for your specs, I’d go 156-158.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you so much for the reply and advice. It was really helpful in narrowing down the size I should go with.
I was also looking at the Jones Mountain Twin 157 as another option, so you think this would fit my skill level and riding style? Are there any other boards you could recommend? (It’s actually difficult tracking down a Team Gullwing 157 so I’m considering others). Thanks!
Hi Terry
Yeah, I think the Mountain Twin 157 would definitely be suitable for what you’re describing. You could also check out this list for more suitable options – just check the specs and reviews of each to make sure you think it will be suitable – or if you’re not sure about a particular board in there, I’m happy to give my opinion on whether I think it would be suitable or not.
Thanks so much for always being willing to answer my questions and help out. I ended up going with a 2020 Jones Mountain Twin 157 that was in fantastic condition.
I actually got a few more days under my belt since I last wrote, and actually have been thinking of adding a Freestyle-leaning board to my quiver. My closest resort is a park mountain, and while I previously said I don’t really do park, I gained a lot of confidence back in those few days and am now leaning on trying to improve my park riding since Ill be going to that resort quite often with buddies from now on.
I wanted something that might be more fun and buttery, where I can just go slower and practice some side hits, jumps, and spins on. I thought about the Yes Greats since Id like a freestyle-leaning board, but at the same time one that’s not too noodly.
I know the Yes boards run short, so do you think I could ride a 151 for this? Or should I go 154? (5’9, 170lbs, size 10 boot). I’m definitely keeping my Mountain Twin for big mountain bomb days, and this 2nd board will be for days taking it slow and high at the park resort.
Hi Terry
Great that you were able to find a good deal on the Mountain Twin.
For the YES Greats, the 151 is certainly doable, if you wanted to make it easier for butters, spins etc. Would give you less for landing bigger jumps versus the 154, if you were looking to go bigger at any point, but if you plan on keeping things pretty mellow, I think it could work for sure – and should be nice and easy to spin. It will feel a little softer than I’ve rated it, if you go down to 151 – it will have a softer more playful feel and not be quite as good in terms of stability at speed, big carves and that kind of thing. If you were going Greats as your do-it-all board, then I’d say 154 for sure, but as part of a quiver, the 151 works.
Also note that the 2021 Mountain Twin changed quite a bit from the 2020, so the current review I have of the Mountain Twin represents the 2021 and 2022 models. It was still a great board in the 2020 model though, but was just a bit of a different feel. But I think should still work well for what you want it for, particularly if you have that more playful board in the quiver. You can check out my Mountain Twin review to see some of the differences – and if you scroll to the bottom there is a tab that if you click on it, it will show you my past reviews of the Mountain Twin.
Hey Nate,
thank you so much, your site is really, really awesome! I read so many reviews of things I will probably never buy, but I enjoyed every moment of it – thanks for the great work!
I also have a question regarding a new deck, could you point me in the right direction?
I am a 1.78m male, always somewhere betweeen 66-71 kg and have Burton Moto 10.5 Boots.
I used to shred regularly when I was in my teens, but haven’t been boarding since around 15 years. Last winter I went again and loved it, so I got a random used deck off of our equivalent of craigslist (some roughly 10 year old Ride Camber, couldn’t find the model)
I used to be quite decent (Off-piste and diamonds were no real problem) and performed a lot better than I had expected after my long hiatus, so I would definitly put myself in the intermediate bracket.
I want an all-round deck with some playfulness. As a challenge to myself I want to land a 360 again and also play around with rails and learn summer butter trick. But I will also be going side piste / dodging trees once I am a bit more confident again. I don’t need to go super fast, but I might also want to look for some powder every once in a while, as well – so basically I want everything 🙂
I used to skateboard a lot, so I think a all-mountain-freestyle would suit me best, but I think I would like a slightly softer flex – or at least no more than 5. I was also leaning towards 154-156 in terms of size.
I don’t have a mountain super near by, so I will probably not get more than 7-14 slope days per season.
I really liked your take on the process flying-v, but from what I read the shape can be really awful on icy patches or groomed slopes. How would you compare the camber process or even PurePop camber in terms of score to the flying v edition of the process? My fear is that as I am going to go on holiday for snowboarding, I have to take the slope as it comes and if it’s icy I would kind of waste a vacation with a flying v – at least according to shreddit…
To be honest I am really struggling with all the different cambers, I learnt on a classic camber, so I guess I should be fine with that, but I don’t want to mess this up, since this will probably be the only deck I will buy for the rest of my life time. This is probably really, really dumb, but the reason why I am leaning towards Burton, is the adjustable system for the bindings, but I think I might be overestimating its value.
Could you please point me in a direction of the Deck of my dreams, oh knowledgeable one? =)
Even if you don’t end up answering, thanks for everything!
Hi Joe
Thanks for your message.
Yeah Flying V isn’t great in icy conditions in my experience either. I think you would be fine on the Process Camber – it’s quite soft flexing which it sounds like you want. It’s purepop camber rather than full camber, but I think you should be fine on that given that you’ve been riding traditional camber. It’s not as good for powder as the Process Flying V, but will give you better edge hold in icy conditions and better for carving, better pop, better at speed, IMO. Not quite as playful as the Flying V version but still nice and playful. So, I think that’s definitely an option, if you’re not too concerned about performance for deep powder.
Some other options worth looking at:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
But if you wanted to go Burton then the Process could work, for sure.
If you did want a bit more powder performance, then something more all-mountain like – >>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards – but it’ll only make a real difference when the powder is quite deep – in shallower powder, you don’t notice the difference that much.
Size-wise, something around 154/155 would work. 156 doable, but given how you describe you want to ride, that would be the longest I would go for your specs.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Thank you so much for your reply. I actually went through the list and am somewhat leaning towards either the Yes Typo or the Capita Outer Space Living right now.
I think both would fit my needs perfectly, so I’ll see if I can get a deal on either of those.
Thanks for the other list, I actually went through it and think that the the proto synthesis and GNU Riders Choice also seem like solid options.
And once again, thanks for the great work!
You’re very welcome Joe. Happy searching! If you think of it at the time let me know what you go with and how you get on, once you get a chance to ride it.
Thanks for the great reviews, as always. I’m fairly new to snowboarding (ridden 5-6 times), mostly groomed blues in Lake Tahoe, but I’d like to hit some more small jumps and prefer a bit of playfulness vs just bombing and carving fast. I’m not a park guy though and prefer to hit the groomers and try to jump whatever I can along the way. Might try the small stuff at the park at some point. I’m 6 feet tall, 185 lbs, size 11.5 shoe size, in my 40’s. Debating between continuing to rent demo boards (mostly they do Burton Process, Flying V, Instigator, etc) until I figure my style out or do I step up and buy an Intermediate board, Yes Type, Yes Basic, SnowTrooper….what boards would you recommend for me (on/off this list) and what size should I be riding? Thx in advance!
I also should say that I’ll probably be snowboarding ~ 10 days per season. Just to give you context on how quickly or slowly I might be progressing. Thanks again and keep up the great site.
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
Personally I think buying is always a good idea – it gives you that consistent ride, that helps you to progress quicker because you’re not always adjusting to a different ride. If you could rent the same board in the same size every time, then you could keep going with the demos until you think you’ve got a better idea, but if you can’t I would definitely recommend buying. It’s always probably financially more viable if you’re doing around 10 days in your season.
For what you’re describing, I think the Typo, Snowtrooper, Terrain Wrecker, Outerspace Living, Rossi Resurgence, Process Flying V (if you’ve rented this before and liked it?) would all be good options. Could for sure do anything on this list really – though the Brainstorm and Wild Life are a little more directional than the others and the Basic and Dicey are more freestyle focused, and I think for what you’re describing, I’d be leaning the those. Size-wise, I’d look at the following:
– Typo: 156W
– Snowtrooper: 157X
– TW: 156W
– OSL: 157W
– Process Flying V: 157W
– Resurgence: 155W – getting a little on the small side though. 159W is doable, but on the big side for what you’re describing and your current level
To note, I think your pure “standard all-mountain” size is more around 160, but given the style you’re describing and as a new rider, I think sizing down a bit makes sense.
Hope this helps
I really appreciate. Your site and knowledge have been really needed by so many of us. Keep up the great work!
You’re very welcome Alex. Thanks for visiting the site – and happy riding!
One last question for you, Nate (if you have time) … Would Ride Algorythym be too much board for me? I noticed you don’t have any reviews for this board but wanted to ask you directly. Thanks again!
Hi Alex
I haven’t ridden the Algorhythm unfortunately, so I couldn’t say for sure. My experience with other similar Ride boards I would predict that it’s a little more challenging to ride than the list we were looking at. But it’s hard to say for sure.
Hello from Athens/Greece.. I am an old-school rider but i left the sport 8 years ago. I want to come back and feel confident again. My first board was a Nitro Hazard ‘ and my second a Burton deck 1996. Its time for a new one. 🙂 I want an all-mountain board,i am between Lib Wrecker and Process Flying V. Can you tell me your opinion and which size is better for me. ** I was between 152-156cm. I am 43 years old /1.76cm – 70Kg – 44,5 boots (10,5 US)
Thanx for your time.
Spiros.
Hi Spiros
Thanks for your message.
They are both playful boards on the looser side, but the Process Flying V is a little softer and overall more loose. So it depends on if you want to go more to the really loose/playful side of things (Process Flying V), or dial it back a bit to be a little more stable (Terrain Wrecker).
Size-wise, I would be looking at the 157 for the Terrain Wrecker. You could ride the 154 too, but I’d be leaning 157 for your specs, particularly with 10.5 boots. The 154 might be too narrow. The 156W would be bigger overall than the 157, when you take into account the width and length, so I would go 157.
For the Process Flying V, it’s a tough one. The 155 or 157 would be a good way to go length-wise, but both are pushing it in terms of width. If you have +15/-15 angles or similar, aren’t doing any really deep carves and have low profile boots, then I think you’d be fine, in which case, I’d be leaning 155, but you could certainly do 157. If not, then you’d need to go 157W. Which isn’t super wide, so it could definitely work, but it’s on the bigger side for you, when you take into account combination of length and width, but it’s still doable.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate. You’re feedback is well thought and so informative.
Looking for advice on a board. Learned just over a couple years ago with a lesson with son. Loved it and bought a Arbor Element Rocker board 153, really enjoyed it, felt so comfortable, and very confident. Only thing I didn’t love was getting off chairs with the washy feeling. Board was stolen near the end of last year; and after reading so much about rocker being a ‘beginner board’, purchased a 153 Arbor Element Camber. Can turn easily and make good turns on non-steep terrain, but having a ton of problems with heel side turns on steeper terrain, as well as washing out on my heel side. Was in keystone a week ago for a few days and also felt incredibly tired, and just lost confidence with riding. Considering going back to the Arbor element rocker board. Read a lot of positive review on the snowtrooper as well (and looks like an awesome company), but looks hard to find (152?). Ride mainly groomers in the upper Midwest, 5’8”, 160lbs, 50 years old, 9 boots. Want a board to do some carving but one that’s easy to turn and continues to build confidence and just enjoy. Looking at the ability levels, I’d say a strong 4, lighter 5. Probably not a lot off-piste, and not park. I’d say 8-12 times on the hill a year, with maybe a few days out west. Burton Cartel bindings with Ruler boa boots. Thoughts on these two boards, or others?
Hi RJ
Thanks for your message.
Given how you describe your riding and how you describe your experience with the Element Rocker and Element Camber, I think something like the Snowtrooper would work really well, if you can find one. 152 is doable for you, but I’d be leaning 154 for your specs. It’s going to be easier to turn, IMO, than the likes of the Element Camber, but not as loose coming off the lifts as the Element Rocker.
You could certainly go back to the Element Rocker, given that you seemed to have had a mostly positive experience with it – and just live with the less-than-ideal experience with getting off the lifts. You could also look at something like the Arbor Shiloh Rocker.
Other options that I think would work well for you include:
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker 154
– YES Typo – either 152 or 155 – 152 if you wanted to keep things nice and casual
– Rossignol Resurgence 153
– Ride Wildlife 154
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
your recommendations are just great. Thank you so much for all the work you’ve put into this platform so far. I’m really appreciating it.
I’m interested in buying a new snowboard as my riding level has advanced over the last two seasons. I’m still riding a Burton Instigator snowboard which is a great deck, but I feel like I need something new in order to progress further. I’d say I’m an intermediate rider (between 5 and 6) who is looking for a board that is still catch-free and easy to turn but also gives you stability and control when riding a bit faster. The Yes Typo looks great and I’ve got the feeling that the Camrock Shape and the stiffness are just perfect for me. However I#m just uncertain what board size I should go for: 158 or 159w?
Male
size: 6’0
weight: 190pounds
front angle: 18°
back angle: 8°
Would be great if you could give me your opinion…
Thx and greetings from Germany
Hi Sascha
Thanks for your message.
I agree that I think the Typo is a good step up for you and should fit what you’re describing well.
If you could let me know your boot size, I would be happy to suggest what I think is the best size for you.
US 11.5
Thank you so much.
Sorry, it‘s US 11. My new Vans Invado OG just arrived (Ordered 2 pairs 11.5 and 11) and I go with the smaller ones.
Thanks Sascha.
I would go with the 159W for the Typo. With 11s, you’ll need to go wide for this board, IMO. But it’s not a super wide board for a wide board, so it’s just right in terms of width for 11s (around 270mm at inserts on the 159W, which is perfect for 11s, IMO) and the length works well for your specs, your level and what you’re describing.
Dude, you‘ve saved my day. Thank you so much. This is, IMO, the most helpful and professsional platform when it comes to snowboard gear. Keep it going….
You’re very welcome Sascha. And thanks for the kind words and for using the website. Happy shredding!
Hey Nate,
Appreciate all of your awesome reviews. You do a great job of explaining things. I’ve been agonizing over choosing a new board. I guess you could say I’m an advanced beginner or low intermediate rider. I don’t really hit park much except for a few smaller jumps. I’ve started taking off through some trees when headed out west and like hitting some side jumps. I still get a little squirrely on blacks with really steep terrain. Mostly I’m just an all-mountain kind of rider. I have been riding an Arbor Element Black for the past 3 years with their parabolic rocker profile (158mw). This board really helped me progress a lot and got me much more comfortable with my overall control. With that said, I’m ready to move on to a new board and am really stuck between a few.. would appreciate your opinion on these for my ability level.
Never Summer Proto Synthesis
Never Summer Snow Trooper
Never Summer Proto Slinger
Burton Process Flying V
I’m really leaning towards the NS Proto Synthesis but am worried it might be a little too aggressive for my ability level. Also, I am 6’1 and 185lbs size 11 boot. All the sizing charts typically put me in like a 160 -161 midwide board. I feel like a slightly shorter board is a little easier to maneuver. Think there is any issues with me dropping down to like a 157x-158x on any of the above? Appreciate your feedback!
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
You’d have no issues riding the Proto Slinger, but it might get a little soft for you as a do-it-all board, especially as you progress. It’s an awesome deck, but it is more freestyle/park than all-mountain/do-it-all.
The Snow Trooper and Process Flying V are certainly easier boards to ride than the like of the Proto Synthesis – and a little more versatile, by virtue of being better in powder. However, when you mention “when headed out west” I take it that your on the East Coast? In which case, gotta mention that the Process Flying V isn’t great in icy conditions, in my experience.
The Proto Synthesis is something that I would consider a little above that low intermediate level, so it would be a bigger step. But given that you’ve been on the Element Rocker, which I wouldn’t consider a true beginner board, the step might not be too much of a leap, especially if you size smaller. Length-wise, I would put you at around 161 for your “standard all-mountain” length – which assumes an advanced level. So, going down to the 157X isn’t too crazy – for one, as a low intermediate rider, it can be a good idea to size down. Also, it’s the kind of board I’d typically ride a little shorter than your all-mountain size. And lastly, with 11s, you’re kind of just into wide territory, so sizing down for a board that’s on the wider side (I wouldn’t say it’s too wide, but it’s on the wider side of your range, so sizing down subtly doesn’t hurt). The combination of those things, make the 157X doable – and that would certainly mellow it out compared to going 160X.
The Snow Trooper is definitely a good option though, IMO, particularly if you think you’ll want to ride a bit of powder (PS will be OK in powder, but not as good when it gets relatively deep). Probably leaning more to the 160X for that one though.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks again for all of your help and for your great reviews. Love the website. I’m between a couple of boards and just wanted to get your opinion on board and size. I’m currently looking at the following boards for my riding style (freeride all mountain, no park) I am 5’6″ 145lbs and where an 8 boot. Mostly east coast riding.
Lib Tech Cold Brew 149 or 153
Lib Tech Dynamo 150
Yes Standard 151
Capita Outer Space Living 150
Also need binding recs, something soft and shock absorbing but with good responsiveness, considering burton cartel, cartel re: flex, and union force or STR
Thanks,
Keith
Hi Keith
Thanks for your message.
I’m assuming a low intermediate level, just because of where your posting, but correct me if I’m wrong. On that assumption, I’d be leaning either Cold Brew (haven’t ridden it but I’ve heard it’s a pretty easy going board – and based on specs will be more of a friendly ride than the Dynamo) or Outerspace Living. The Cold Brew is more directional and what I would consider more freeride oriented versus the OSL, but the OSL could certainly work for what you’re describing.
For the Cold Brew, I would be leaning 149 over 153. I’d say your “standard all-mountain” size is around 152, but with an 8 boot, the 153, when combining width and length is going to be on the bigger side. It’s doable, but I’d be leaning 149.
For the OSL, I would actually go up to the 152. The 150 (and 152) are quite narrow. A good width for your boots, IMO, but you wouldn’t need to size down at all for width in the case of the OSL. You could still ride the 150, but the 152 would be more comparable to the Cold Brew 149, IMO.
If you did go Standard, I would be leaning 149, just because it’s a wider board (with a 245mm waist on the 149, it doesn’t look that wide, but it’s wider than it looks at the inserts). The 151 is doable, but I’d be leaning 149 for the Standard – and again, that would be more comparable to the 152 OSL, IMO. Standard 149, still not quite as wide as the 149 Cold Brew, but combination of width and length, I’d be leaning 149 over 151.
For bindings, the STR might be a little soft (5/10 flex) for the Standard and Dynamo, but should work well with the Cold Brew (assumption, having not ridden it) and the OSL. The Force is a little stiffer than the STR, but it’s still mid-flex – 6/10 by my feel and would work with any of those boards, IMO. The Cartel also something around that 6/10 flex and would work with any, IMO. Note that only the Cartel Re:Flex will be compatible with these boards. The EST model can only be mounted on the Channel system.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Firstly thanks as always for your site, it is such a great resource for reading up on potential purchases. Also thanks for your help last year in choosing a pair of boots – you guided me towards the Vans Aura Pro and I have been very happy with them.
I am now looking at buying my first board, having rented up to this point. I live in central Europe with easy access to the mountains so I feel I am at the stage where owning a board becomes economically worthwhile.
Using your site and reading other comments I think I have narrowed down my choice to 4:
Jones Mountain Twin
Burton Process
Yes Typo
Yes The Greats
I would place myself at intermediate level 5, into level 6. This year I have really started working on my switch riding, as well as becoming more interested in trying to butter, and go for side hits. The resorts I have been to have not had parks, but if I visit one with jumps I would like to give them a go.
Mostly I ride groomers and like to have fun on them, with spins, butters and some easy carving.
I am 6ft1, and weigh 170, and my vans are a size EU42.
Of the boards I have listed, would you recommend any of them over any other? And which size would you recommend? I know I have fairly small feet for my size so would you go for a wide board or not worry about it?
Thanks so much in advance
Simon
PS, if you would recommend any other boards for my riding style, please suggest them! Thanks
Hi Simon
Thanks for your messages.
Firstly, with EU42 boots, definitely don’t go wide, IMO.
All of those boards are certainly suitable for what you’re describing, but here’s some things that might help to narrow it down.
Firstly, in terms of the easiest going, most playful to the most aggressive, I would say, in order of most playful to most aggressive:
– YES Typo
– Jones Mountain Twin
– Burton Process
– YES Greats
But don’t take that as the Greats being overly aggressive. It’s still got some playfulness to it. It’s right in between playful and aggressive.
In terms of butters, I would say easier to hardest:
– Typo – 4.5/5
– Greats/Mountain Twin – 4/5
– Process – 3.5/5
But again, the Process isn’t hard to butter or anything, just a little harder than the others, the Typo a little easier. I’ve put scores up there to give it reference.
The Greats is the best for switch, but nothing there is hard for riding switch or anything.
In terms of carving, they can all carve, and if you’re doing easy carves, rather than big high speed carves, then you should be good on any of them, but I would say carving in this order:
– Greats 4/5
– MT/Process/Typo 3.5/5
If you want to compare other factors, check out the reviews of each board – I have a review for each of those on the site.
Size-wise, for your specs and how you describe your riding, I would say:
– Greats: 154
– MT: 157
– Process: 157 or 159
– Typo: 158
Note the Greats is quite wide, that’s why I’ve sized it down. The MT is also on the wider side for your boots, so I’ve erred a little shorter going 157. 160 for the MT in terms of length would work for you, but being on the wider side for your boots, the 157 makes the most sense, IMO. Also taking into account your riding style. The Process you could go 159, as it’s a little narrower than the MT, but the 157 would still work, particularly for the style that you’re describing. For the Typo, the 155 is a little too small for you, IMO. And the 161 a little too big, so that’s a pretty easy choice to go 158.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks Nate – I did read this and plan on replying two days ago, but I got sucked into another rabbit hole of reviews and board types. There are just so many!
I think I am erring towards the Typo, with The Greats a very close second. I think these give me the best bet of being able to butter, ride switch and hit jumps, but not sacrifice the ability to ride on groomers to keep up with my skiing friends.
Your review of the Greats is just so positive it is hard to ignore!
But I am on the side of the Typo just as you say it is best for intermediates, and I think it will help me get better all over the mountain, and I can look at getting a new board in a few years as I improve. Would you agree?
What would your top 3 bindings be for the typo?
Thanks again
Hi Simon
I agree that the Typo will help you to get better all over the mountain quicker and it’s something that you shouldn’t grow out of too quickly.
For the Typo, my top 3 would be:
– Burton Genesis (or Malavita) and the Burton Mission would work too, if you wanted to save cash at the sacrifice of a little quality)
– Flux DS
– Union Strata – it’s at the stiffest end of the range I would ride with the Typo, but it’s still in range – and not super stiff or anything – 6/10 flex)
Hi Nate
Thanks for the advice.
I have found a good deal for a new 159 20/21 nitro team gullwing. How would this compare to the typo?
In your review you mention the 22 model is still quite playful, so will it meet the requirements I mentioned above? Thanks
Hi Simon
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say the Team Gullwing is quite as playful as the Typo is or quite as easy going. But it’s still certainly playful enough. I’d say it’s probably a touch more playful than the Greats – and similar in playfulness to the Mountain Twin. The 159 works size-wise too, IMO.
Hey Nate!
I am 6’1 210 and wear 11.5 to 12.
Riding style-
I like to carve, hit side jumps, hit kickers in the park. Show off my butter skills and I may tap a rail to give it a little love.
Things I don’t do-
I stick to blues mainly, I can ride the blacks comfortably, I just don’t enjoy them that much. You will never catch me bombing down the mountain unless happy hour is about to end. I really just like to chill, hit jumps, butter, and try to flow the best I can.
I have been leaning towards the Yes boards, specifically the Yes great. Do you think this board is wide enough for 11.5 boot?
Based on my riding style, is this the best option for me; or would you make another recommendation?
Also I prefer to be on the smaller size of the scale for my height, weight and shoe size.
Hi Dawson
Thanks for your message.
If you’re not hitting deep powder regularly, I think the Greats would work well for what you’re describing. It’s fine in powder that’s like 8-10″ or less, but once you hit deeper stuff, it’s pretty hard to keep the nose afloat. But yeah for everything you’re describing, it should work really well. What you’re describing is exactly how I use the Greats (one of the boards in my quiver).
It’s a wider board than it looks, so you should be good in 11.5s, in the 159. Even the 156 would likely be wide enough for 11.5s, depending on stance width and how low profile your boots are. But I think the 159 would be the best bet for you anyway. Typically I would say something around 163 as a “standard all-mountain” size for you, but the Greats is a board you can ride smaller and for your style you can go smaller and it sounds like your preference is smaller – so, given all of that I think 159 would work really well for you. If you really wanted to go even shorter the 156 is doable, but I would be leaning 159.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am an intermediate level 5 and have been riding an arbor rocker system for two seasons. I would like to step up to a more premium board and try a combination of rocker/camber. I like riding the groomers and powder days. What board would you recommend?
Hi Tyler
Thanks for your message.
Depending on whether you want hybrid camber (rocker towards tip and tail with camber between and under the feet) or hybrid rocker (rocker between the feet, then camber). Typically hybrid camber is a more stable feeling and hybrid rocker a little looser (but how loose depends on how much rocker there is). Hybrid rocker would feel more like Arbor rocker system than hybrid camber.
Some good intermediate hybrid camber options that are also decent in powder:
– Ride Wildlife
– Rossignol Resurgence
– Slash Brainstorm
– YES Typo
Or some Hybrid Rocker options:
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
– Never Summer Snowtrooper
– Burton Process Flying V (on the looser end of hybrid rocker)
As a level 5 Intermediate, you could also consider the likes of the YES Standard, Jones Mountain Twin, Rossignol One (all Hybrid Camber) or Nitro Team Gullwing (Hybrid Rocker).
Hope this helps
Hello Nate,
First of all thank you for your hard work.
I was reading through beginners one and also intermediate one and I believe I am on beginner 4 or just becoming an intermediate. My height is 5 feet 8.5 inches, weight is 151 lbs and shoe size is 8US. At first, I was looking into cheap beginners snowboard but rather just buy a intermediate one. I really enjoy riding snowboard but know nothing about gears and this will be my first snowboard. YES Typo is the one I am looking into right now. My ride style is making short turns or going down fast making turns type of rider. Will the Typo fits my style? On the website that you provide for the Typo, only 152cm size is available right now. Is that size okay for me?
Thank you Nate, hope you have blessed day!
James
Hi James
Thanks for your message.
I think the Typo would work well for what you’re describing. Size-wise, it’s between the 152 and 155. I think around 155 is a really good “standard all-mountain” size for you, if a relatively advanced rider. For beginners I would typically recommend taking off 3-5cm. As a higher end beginner, going on intermediate, I would say take off 1-3cms. Taking into account boot size as well, I think the 152 could work. Though it’s certainly not that wide, it is on the wider side for 8s, so taking off a little bit of length is probably a good idea, in this case. So, it’s between 152 and 155, but I would be leaning towards the 152.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you for the quick reply Nate!
Perfect, I’ll go with Yes Typo 152cm. Also one more questions regarding bindings and boots. I am looking at Burton Moto for the boots and Union Flite Pro for bindings. I know both are on beginners top 10 and medium-soft flex, however will it match Yes Typo? If it doesn’t which one should I look for?
Thank you very much Nate!
Again have a wonderful day.
James
Hi James
The Moto/Flite Pro combo would work on the Typo, but not what I would call an ideal match. Ideally I’d go with something in a flex range 4/10 to 6/10 for both boots and bindings. The Moto/Flite Pro just a little softer than that. But they would certainly work.
Thank you for your quick reply and time Nate!
The reason why I choose those were because I am little tight on a budget right now. However, if it doesn’t match well I’m willing to spend more and since I already bought Yes Typo, I really want to get boots and bindings that matches well with Typo.
I looked at all the ‘all-mountain,’ and ‘freestyle’ for bindings and boots. As you said on some other comments if a rider is lighter then he can go softer flex, so I was thinking 4-5 flex for both binding and boots.
So far for the bindings :
Flux DS or Burton Genesis for flex 5
Union Contact Pro for flex 4
For the boots :
Vans Hi-Standard Pro or Auro Pro for flex 5
Vans Hi-Standard OG or Aura OG for flex 4
What do you think Nate? Or should I go for flex 6? Like Adidas Tactical or Response?
Thank you for your time Nate!
Have a wonderful day!
James
Hi James
I think going 4 or 5 for flex makes sense, given your weight and still being a good match to the Typo. And you should be able to find cheaper options there, particularly with that 4/10 flex.
For bindings, given that you’re on a budget, the Contact Pro would work well. Or the DS. The Genesis are pricey and if you’re on a budget, you can cross those off, as the others will do the job.
For boots, I think the Hi-Standard Pro and Aura Pro would be the best match and likely last you a little longer, so even though they’re the costlier options, I’d be leaning that way. The OG versions would give you a little more stiffness than the Moto, for sure, so definitely doable and I think a better option from the Moto, in this case, but if you can stretch to the Pro versions, I’d be leaning that way.
I think 4/10 to 5/10 would actually be the better options at this stage, so no need to go to the stiffer 6/10 flex.
Hello Nate
First of all, thank you lots for your great researches, they’re AWSOME!!
I’m looking to get a new board for this season 21/22.
I’m 183cm tall and weight actually 105kg my goal is to come down again to 90kg in max 1 year. Normal shoes I wear shoe size EU 44,5 to 45.
I’ve been snowboarding for like 20 times already but my last time is like 4 years ago.
Till now I always rented boards and did not check the specs so far and was never happy about the feeling.
When I’m on the pist I like to go 40% of the time on the regular pist 30% off road/ deep snow 15% jumps and 15% twister and switching and playing around from goofy to regular and stuff.
Till now I just did once a Park and don’t think that I will do it lots.
What would you recommend me for a board and bindings? For the boots I think I will get the Burton Molto.
For the board:
I liked the Salmon sight very much but I’m not sure if I should go for an intermediate board just a bit insecure how much of my skills that’ve lost.
I also saw that the 162w one is thought for ppl up to 90kg my goal is it to keep the board as long as possible.
I’m totally open for any suggestions.
Thank you lots for all
Kind regards
AJ
Hi AJ
Thanks for your message.
If you’re going to go with the Burton Moto, then I would lean on the softer side for the board – as those boots are pretty soft. With a softer board, particularly for your height/weight specs, the biggest thing will be stability at speed. But sizing can help a lot with that.
I would say probably go a little stiffer in the boots and a little stiffer in the board – especially given you have a bit of experience under your belt already. At least 4/10 flex and up to 5/10 flex.
But if you did go Moto, then the Sight would be a really good match, IMO. And size-wise, I think the 162W would be your best bet. At your current specs, I think something around 164 as an advanced rider, but taking off those couple of cms as a high-end beginner (assumption) is a good idea – and then it should work out well – as you increase your ability you could go longer, but as you lose weight you could go shorter – and should align pretty well, I think with that being a good size for now, based on ability and a good size in the future for a lighter, but more able snowboarder.
If you were happy with that, then I think the Sight will be a good match for the Moto, but if you did want to go a little stiffer, let me know and I’ll be happy to offer some suggestions. Sizing may differ a little depending on the board, but will be in that ballpark.
Hope that helps
Thank you for you fast respond Nate.
What for boots and board would you recommend me instead of the moto boots and the sight board?
KR
AJ
Hi AJ
If you decided to go with a slightly stiffer boot, then I would look at the K2 Raider, Ride Rook, Ride Anthem, Vans Hi-Standard OG (all 4/10 flex) or if you wanted to go 5/10 flex, then the Salomon Launch, Vans Aura Pro (or Hi-Standard Pro), Burton Ruler, Ride Triad. Other options in that 5/10 range too, just not including anything with too big a price tag.
If you were to go with a 4/10 or 5/10 flex boot, then I’d look at (have included the style of board below – given how you describe your riding, the all-mountain options are what I would be looking at):
– Nitro Prime (all-mountain)
– YES Basic (freestyle)
– Arbor Formula Rocker (all-mountain-freestyle)
– K2 Raygun (all-mountain)
– Slash Happy Place (freestyle)
– Never Summer Snowtrooper (all-mountain)
– Burton Process Flying V (all-mountain)
– YES Dicey (freestyle)
All of these would be fine whether you had a 4/10 or 5/10 flex boot.
The following I would only go for, if you were to get a 5/10 flex boot.
– YES Typo (all-mountain)
– Capita Outerspace Living (all-mountain)
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker (all-mountain)
– Ride Wild-Life (all-mountain)
– Arbor Element Rocker (all-mountain-freestyle)
Thank you lots Nate.
I just orderd the Nitro Prime i found a set with the stixx pepper bindings and got the k2 Raider boots an everything also was in discount 🙂
They should arrive in 2-3 workdays 🙂
I will let you know how it felt, already excited to test it next weekend in Lenzerheide at Switzerland.
You’re very welcome AJ. Hope the setup treats you well. Look forward to hearing what you think.
Hi Nate,
I currently have a Neversummer Snowtrooper. It was my first board. I have now ridden about 30 days over 2 seasons. I am 5 “10 and 170lbs. For some reason I don’t love the NS Snowtrooper. It feels a little stiff/damp to me. Which is strange as I know it is a low flex board.
I rented a custom flying V once and found it to be more fun/playful. I am now considering changing it up and have considered a few options below. I live on the West Coast so I am mostly in Park City, Snowbird or Colorado. I am hesitant only because I have the Snowtrooper which is on the list and know I don’t love it. I don’t hate it, just seems stiffer/damper which is bizarre considering I rented the Custom and felt it wasn’t stiff. Mostly go down groomers and sometimes powder.
What would you suggest?
– Burton Custom Flying V
– Burton Process Flying V
– CAPITA Outerspace Living
– YES Typo
– NS Proto Slinger
Hi Jordan
Thanks for your message.
Can you let me know the size of your Snowtrooper. And also the size of the Custom Flying V you rented, if you remember. And if you could also let me know your boot size. Bigger boards will feel stiffer. E.g. if I rode the Snowtrooper in the 154 versus the 159, the 159 would feel stiffer to me than the 154. Also, I find boards that are too wide for me, feel stiffer than they should. So if I ride a really wide board (without sizing down), it feels stiffer/deader to me. Just wanting to establish if it was size that might have affected it i.e. if the Custom Flying V you rode was a reasonable amount smaller, it may have accounted for it.
The Flying V is a very playful camber profile too, which can lead to an overall more forgiving ride, even in a stiffer board. That said, the Snowtrooper has a pretty forgiving camber profile too – even if not as loose/playful as the Flying V.
By my feel, the only board in that list that I felt softer than the Snowtrooper was the Proto Slinger. If you were to find that board stiff, then I wouldn’t know what to say! That said, the Outerspace Living, Process Flying V and Typo are all very close to the Snowtrooper in flex (by my feel) and for something like the Process Flying V, I wouldn’t be surprised if you felt it overall more playful, given how close I found them in flex feel, and adding Flying V to the mix. I am a little surprised you found the Custom Flying softer flexing though. It’s still certainly not something that I would consider stiff, by any means, but stiffer than the others in that list. But again, not by much (I felt the Custom Flying V at 5.5/10, versus 5/10 for OSL, 4.5/10 for Typo and Process Flying V, versus 3.5/10 for Proto Slinger, versus 4/10 for snowtrooper). So none of them way different to the others. Note also that the Custom Flying V to me, felt softer than the Camber version.
One last thing is that heavier boards can sometimes feel stiffer too. That’s going to be the same for everyone, but I believe it’s more exaggerated for lighter riders than heavier riders. You’re neither, and you’re a similar weight to me. So that may not explain it, but it’s something else to consider.
If you liked the Custom Flying V, then that’s certainly an option. Nothing beats personal experience. Or if you found that playful/softer and you liked that feeling and wanted to exaggerate it even further, then the Process Flying V is another level of playful versus the Custom Flying V.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Super Helpful! So I am 5 ft 10″ with a size 10 boot and 170lbs. The Snowtrooper I own is 157cm and the Custom Flying V was 154cm.
Your point is a good one and that is why I was so perplexed. As I also rented even stiffer boards and I was expecting the Snowtrooper to feel more playful and it just didn’t for me. Perhaps that is size?
Curious what you suggest. If I did go either CAPITA Outerspace, Custom Flying V or Process Flying V perhaps the size change is more the issue. I think I would be more likely to buy something different now as I doubt I would buy the same in a different size
Hi Jordan
Yeah, I’d say the size had something to do with it. Just to clarify to be totally certain, you have the 157X. The Snowtrooper regular widths are 152, 154, 156, 159 and the wide versions are 157X, 160X and 164X. If it’s the 157X versus the 154 (non-wide) Custom X Flying V, then I think sizing is the biggest issue. That combination of width and length, with your specs and size 10s, will make it feel stiffer than it should. I think the 156 would be the better size for you, in the Snowtrooper, I think you’ve gone too wide. And the 157X versus the 154 Regular Custom Flying V would be quite a bit different. If it’s 154 Custom Flying V versus 156 Snowtrooper, then I’d say there’s more than just size at play, because that would certainly make a difference, but not as big a difference.
I would say in the Custom Flying V that the 156 is probably your best size, but the 154 isn’t out of range, and knowing that you liked it that would be an option. But yeah, generally based on your specs and how you describe your riding, I think something around 154-156 is a good size for you.
But yeah I agree to go with something different, rather than buying the same thing in a different size. Even though (assuming it’s the 157X you have) I think you’d like the Snowtrooper more in the 156 or 154, given that you don’t love it, it’s worth trying something different.
Hi Nate, greetings from across the pond in Europe.
Your posts are great, and I’ve been studying them for the past months, which have gotten me over the learning curve of snowboarding – coming from the world of surfing. You should write a book!!
I’m looking to invest in a solid, utilitarian, one-board-quiver that will likely be my snowboarding tool for many years and therefore, am interested in your insight.
Tending to favour groomers and light pow, having snowboarded a few times at Sir Sam’s in Canada, Monarch Mountain in Colorado, and the Alps in Switzerland. In terms of riding style, looking for a mellow chill vibe, enjoying the ride down (not bombing it), with some fun in between e.g. butter, switch. I ride goofy. Have always rented/borrowed boards and therefore, paid no attention to specs as it was either use the one available or go home.
Height: 176 cm
Weight: 95 kg (210 lbs)
Boot size: 44 EU (Nidecker Ranger Boot 2021; The footprint of the sole measures 32 cm). It has a 5/10 stiffness rating.
Bindings: yet to own a pair!
Snowboards I’ve narrowed down to (waist size in brackets):
– 2021 Capita Outerspace Living; 158 (253) or 159W (264)
– 2021 Ride Wildlife; 157 (252) or 158W (263)
– 2020 YES. X Globe Not so Basic; 158 (253)
Your top 10 lists have helped a lot. What do you think? Of course, open to other suggestions. There are some great deals at the moment on the above boards, which accounting for promotions, are now all between 250-300 EUR.
Best wishes,
Ieronymos
Hi Ieronymos
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden the YES X Globe, but I think the other two would work well for what you’re describing. The Outerspace Living a little better for switch – and a more even feel between the nose and tail, in terms of butters.
With a 32cm outer sole length, I think going wide is your best bet. Probably a bit too much overhang. You’d possibly get away with the regular width, but only if you were riding with quite a bit of angle on the back binding (e.g. +15/-15) and weren’t getting too deep in your carves. A lower profile EU44 could possibly get on the narrower widths easier, but with a 32cm outersole, it’s pushing it unless you were riding those angles and not getting too deep in carves.
Length-wise, I think somewhere in that 158-160, taking into account specs and how you like to ride, so for the OSL, I’d say 159W should work well and for the Wild Life 158W.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate!
I’m looking to get my first decent board. I’m on the early side of intermediate skill level so I’m hoping to get a board that will last me a while. I’m located in the Midwest and usually end up at a resort in NY for most of my trips out. I’m 5’ 11” and 210 pounds, (though I’m actively working to get to around 190-200 pounds) with a size 12 boot.
I was expecting to be looking in the 158-161 size range and a wide board. Any suggestions? The options seem a little slim on the budget side of things.
Thank you very much, love your reviews!
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
Taking everything into consideration, and working off the assumption of 200lbs, I think the following would work well for you (that aren’t too expensive):
– Arbor Element Camber 160MW (the mid-wides from Arbor are pretty much wide’s for most brands, and I think you’d be fine width-wise on it – the 161W would definitely work too, if you wanted a bit more leeway width-wise, but if you wanted to go a little smaller, the 160MW would work, IMO)
– Arbor Element Camber 161W
– Arbor Shiloh Camber 160MW or 161W
– Arbor Shiloh Rocker – but I think you’re probably better off with the camber model, particularly if you’re not seeing much powder and riding on hard pack a lot. Arbor’s camber is more forgiving than a traditional camber
– Capita Outerspace Living 159W – not as good in hard/icy conditions as the Arbor options above, but otherwise a good option, if you want to keep things more twin than directional
– GNU T2B 161W – if you wanted to go a little more directional
– Jones Frontier 161W – again a little more directional
– Jones Mountain Twin 159W
– Lib Tech Cold Brew 158W – but borderline too short (more directional option)
– Ride Wildlife 161W – not as good in hard/icy conditions though
– Rossignol Templar 159W
– Slash Brainstorm 159W
– YES Typo 159W
There’s certainly other option too, but I tried to stay under 500.
Hope this helps
Thank you very much for so many options!
I really appreciate you taking the time to help.
I’ve found your reviews to be the most informational, so your advice is very much appreciated!
One last question, if you dont mind. I’ve been riding with an old pair of Flow bindings and find I really appreciate the ability to slide into the bindings from the heel side. Seems easier to me than straps. Do you have any experience with Flow bindings? I didn’t see any reviews on your site for any models.
Thank you again!
Hi Chris
I don’t currently test flow bindings. I have ridden a pair, but it was one of their lower end models and it was like 6-7 years ago. On paper, without having any experience with them, but based on flex ratings, I would say the Fuse would be the best match to most of these boards
Hi Nate, thank you so much. I just got a superb deal on the Lib Tech Dynamo for 260€. I could‘t resist. Thanks for your help.
You’re very welcome Rafael. Hope the Dynamo treats you well. I think it should work well for what you’re describing.
Hi Nate,
I would appreciate your advice. I‘m an intermediate rider (85kg) and looking for a new deck. I‘m kind of torn between die Yes Basic and the Salomon First Call. I already tried the Basic and liked it but I‘m not sure if there is something better out there for me. After some research the First Call seems to fit as well. So could the Rossignol Jibsaw.
What is your opinion on those three?
I don‘t do any park, mostly all mountain/groomers and some pow.
Thanks Nate
Hi Rafael
Thanks for your message.
Assuming your at least an intermediate level, I think the First Call is probably going to be the best option of the 3, given tat you don’t ride park. It’s better in pow than the others. If you were more a beginner or more park focused, then I’d say YES Basic. Jibsaw also more freestyle oriented, but kind of in between.
For the First Call sizing can be interesting though. If you could let me know your height and boot size (you already gave me your weight), and I give you a sizing opinion on that if you wanted one.
Hope this helps
Thanks a lot. Yes that helps.
I‘m 178 cm, Boot size 9. Maybe slightly above intermediate level. That is really hard to tell where advanced level starts….
I was thinking about the size 157 as an all mountain board. ???
Hi Rafael
You should be all good with the First Call if you’re intermediate bordering on advanced (if you’re still not sure this might help).
I think the 157 would work for your specs. It’s on the wide side for your boots, but at 157 it’s also a little shorter than your ideal all-mountain size, so I think it balances out well. The First Call has some unique specs, in that the 157 is actually narrower than the 151 (typically as boards get longer they get wider also). If the 157 was as wide or wider than the 151, then it would probably be overall too big. But in this case, I think the size should work really well for you.
Cool thanks. Did you have a chance to ride the First Call? And is there another board you would recommend for the stage between intermediate and advance?
Hi Rafael
I haven’t ridden the First Call. Some good options for your level, if you want to look at similar boards (freeride boards, but not overly stiff), I would check out:
>>Top 10 Surfy (mellow) Freeride Snowboards
Pay attention to the score breakdowns to see what you think might suit you best. That’s quite an eclectic list, with some being more powder specialist.
Or you could also look at:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
If you wanted something that’s more “two ender”. Still good in powder, but less powder focused.
Hey Nate,
I don’t know which board to get, a beginner or intermediate. I can go down all beginner runs and some blue runs. I can turn on both edges but my heel to toe I am less confident. My goal is to get better at making quick turns and eventually carving rather than skidding. In short and narrow runs I am alright but still learning to check my speed. I was looking at the Salomon Sight and the Salomon Assassin for my progression. Which board would be best? I’m also open to any suggestions if you think a different board would better suit me. I am 5’6 170lbs. I am looking in the 151-153 range. Do you think that is too short? Let me know what you think. Thanks in advance for any info and advice.
Hi Paul
Thanks for your message.
The Salomon Sight would give you the easier progression, IMO, and help you to advance quicker. It is something you would want to upgrade from down the line (how soon would depend on how quickly you developed). The Assassin isn’t way off, but it’s borderline a step too far, if you’re not confidently changing edges both ways yet. Hard to say for sure, but there is a risk it’s a little in the “slightly too advanced for your level” territory.
Size-wise, for either, I would say go 153, but if you could also let me know your boot size, that would help to give a more accurate sizing opinion.
If you were open to different options, then most on this list would work, but if it’s between those two, I would be leaning Sight, because I think that would ultimately make your progression faster, but everyone has a different appetite in terms of how willing they are to upgrade within a couple of seasons.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for your help. My boot size is 8.5. Should I go 151 or better to stay at 153?
Ps. Disregard other email. I just filled out another post form because I didn’t see it.
Hi Paul
I would stay at 153 for the Sight. The Sight is quite narrow so shouldn’t be too wide for your boots. If you were to go Assassin, there’s some argument you could go 150, but I think I would still go 153. 150 is getting pretty short for your specs. The 150 would mellow the Assassin out and make it more doable, but if you were to get the Assassin for the reason of having something to last longer through your progression, then it would kind of defeat the purpose getting it shorter, because you would want to upgrade size-wise once you became more advanced anyway. I would be leaning 153 Sight.
Nate,
Thanks for all your help and advice. Your site is awesome! I just saw that you reviewed the Ride Agent, and I was wondering if the Agent would be better or if either board would be good. Which one would you recommend and which bindings would be good?
Hi Paul
The Ride Agenda is a more freestyle focused board. It’s a really good beginner option if you think you’ll get into riding the park, or if you just want something that you can learn basic technique on and then either keep as your park board or sell once you upgrade to a more advanced all-mountain board. So it’s a good option for progression, IMO, but it depends on whether you want something that’s more all-mountain from the start or if you’re happy to have something like that to get you started and then later to use to work on your park skills or sell.
Hi Nate,
I cannot reply on the thread anymore, but wanted to give a final view from my side 🙂
I agree with you, Lib Tech – Dynamo looks perfect for my requirements I would say.
And yeah, Mountain Twin and Mercury are not on the list, but I would try to find them somewhere else…
On the other hand, I think I will invest in 2 years in the 2nd deck which will be more powder-oriented, and I was thinking maybe I should go with something more forgiving/more playful now – and in that case, what would you suggest?
As per my understanding below ones should do the job:
– Jones Mountain Twin
– Yes Typo
– Capita Outer space living
This was the last comment, I promise 🙂 And thanks a lot for your time, you already helped me a lot!
Cheers man!
Hi Dalibor
Yes those 3 would all be more forgiving options and great options for a low intermediate level to progress into an advanced level. I would say that the Mountain Twin is probably the most advanced of the 3, but certainly in the range for your level, I would say. The Mountain Twin would offer the best stability at speed, followed very closely by the OSL, then the Typo. Since it sounds like you’re riding quite fast speeds, I would be weighing up between the Mountain Twin and OSL at this point.
Nate,
I just received my Yes Typo 158 and couldn’t be more stoked! It came surprisingly fast and more importantly before an upcoming ski trip on Sunday. However, I don’t have boots or bindings yet. I was planning on doing another demo board before it arrived, but now I’m wondering if I should test it out this weekend… Unfortunately it will probably be my last ski day of the winter, so I’m curious if you thought it would be a better idea to just leave it at home (which I’m leaning towards), safe and sound in its factory plastic, and just ride a board from the demo center (they have plenty of OSLs hehe) and not mess with the brand new one one time before it goes into hibernation for 8 long months!
Also, now that I have the board, what style of boot and board makes the most sense for the 158 Typo? Are there different brands/types that are better suited for this board, or is it more about ability level and what you are trying to do? I’m 6’1.5”, 185ish lbs, and size US 10.5 shoe (last few times the 9.5 boot rental fit like a glove, but I suspect they might have been very broken in) and ride primarily on north east hardpack/ice (unfortunately!). Ability wise I’d say I’m between 4 and 5, leaning towards 5. I think after another day or two I would be solidly into the 5 range. I lean more towards all-mountain, having speed and stability, but also envision going down the terrain park section without worrying too much and would like to learn some butter tricks, all some of the same reasons I chose (hopefully correctly) the Typo. Can you think of good boot and/or binding recommendations for all that being said, but also go well with the Typo?
Really appreciate all that you do, your site has helped tremendously in my real first season of riding. I’m officially obsessed.
Thanks and sorry for the long comment!
Kevin
Hi Kevin
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say there’s any particular brand, when it comes to bindings with the Typo, but definitely a good idea to match to the board, particularly in terms of flex (a binding that’s too soft for a board won’t drive it hard enough – and one that’s too stiff can make the board feel twitchy). But also matching to what you’re trying to do and your ability is important too. Fortunately, those things line up most of the time, if you’ve chosen the right board. In this case, something with around a 5/10 flex, and up to 6/10 flex would be your best bet, IMO. Which should match well to your ability, the board and what you’re trying to do with your style. Weight/strength also comes into it. So, if you’re a lighter rider, then erring softer is usually a good idea and erring a little stiffer if you’re heavier/stronger physically. Again this usually aligns fine, given you’ve chosen the right board. And again, in your case these all matches up and a 5/10 to 6/10 flex, should be a really good match all round. Long story short, I think something from the following would work really well:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
There are other options too, but that’s a good start there.
For boots, it’s a pretty similar process. So again, something in that 5/10 to 6/10 range. I like to err slightly stiffer with boots. Then it’s a matter of something with a good fit for your feet (everyone’s feet are different) and getting that size right. If you’re a 10.5 shoe, then likely you’ll be either a 10 or 10.5 in snowboard boots, depending on the brand. Always a good idea to try on first of course. Some things to look out for for proper fit in the first link below, then some specific things by brand in the next link:
>>How to Size Snowboard Boots
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
And some good boot options for your situation:
>>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
Oh and in terms of riding your Typo this year. It’s up to you. If you do, just make sure to do a summer wax (i.e. wax it but don’t scrape the wax off, to keep the base from drying out – I do it every year for all my boards) before storing it – and if you can try to store it in an area that’s humidity controlled (not too humid and not too dry), to keep it in the best condition. Unless you’re thinking of returning it, I think I’d ride it. But if you’re considering the OSL and want to demo it before you make a decision on the board, then take the OSL and see what you think.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much, Nate. Very helpful. I think I’m leaning towards the Burton Genesis for the bindings. I usually have foot pain popping up nearly every time I ride, and these bindings seem to have some comfort- features. Question – will Burton boots fit better with their bindings or am I ok with other brands? I think I like the Vans Infuse and Adidas Tactive ATV to hopefully reduce some possible overhang with my sized foot (most likely will choose a 10 boot).
Hi Kevin
Yeah, I think the Genesis would be a great choice. A good match to the board, your ability and if you’re looking for extra comfort, the Genesis is really comfortable, IMO.
You can definitely ride other boots in there. Yes, Burton’s bindings are made with Burton boots in mind first, but they accommodate all boot brands well, IMO. I ride the Burton Malavita as my control bindings for when I’m testing boards and boots – and they accommodate all the boot brands I test well. Burton boots are low profile as well, so in terms of reducing overhang, they are a good option – but you’re certainly not restricted to just looking at Burton.
Thanks so much man. I’m going to try on as many pairs of boots as possible since the foot pain thing is a pretty limiting factor for me when I ride. Thanks again, all the best.
Hi Kevin
Really solid idea. No such thing as trying on too many options, IMO.
Hi Nate.
I love all the work you put into this. It makes for great reading. I’m 5’9” 180 lbs. I’m back on the slopes this year after a 10 years of little to no riding. With that said I bought an Arbor Element rocker 157 to get back into the swing of things. As it’s a very forgiving board.
I consider myself a mid-intermediate rider who just likes to ride. No park, no jumps/jibs , no switch. I like groomers and the pow.
I’m looking for a board to help me take the next step in carving. Maybe something a little stiffer? A board with stability at higher speed. Possibly a directional board?
I’m on groomers 80% of the time but would still prefer a board that will do well in the pow. Thanks in advance for your reply. I look forward to reading your suggestions.
Hi Ed
Thanks for your message.
Possibly a little stiffer, but I think the main thing if you’re looking to work on improving your carving is getting some camber in the profile. Doesn’t have to be all-camber, but more camber than rocker if you’re a solid intermediate rider looking to carve. And yeah, if you’re also looking for pow and don’t ride switch or freestyle, then directional is a great idea, IMO.
I would look at the following:
>>Top 10 Surfy (mellow) Freeride Snowboards
That’s an eclectic list and some are better at carving than others there, so pay attention to the score breakdowns. If you did want to go stiffer than that and a little more advanced, you could also look at:
>> My Top 10 Freeride Snowboards
Or if you wanted to go a little less directional, but still not twin:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
But I think from what you’re describing, something from that first list – or something like the Jones Frontier
Hope this helps
Thank you. This definitely helps.
You’re very welcome Ed.
Hi Nate,
Really enjoy reading all of your reviews- they are very informative and easy to read ! Thank you for this.
I was wondering if you could help me narrow down which board would be suited for my style of riding and level.
I am so blessed with having access to the Canadian Rockies ( Banff , Canada) – this year there’s been lots of powder, soft packed snow days as well.
I am on the borderline of beginner to intermediate, attempting baby kickers, want to play around with buttering, and harness resort riding to a better level and progress to some back country riding in the future. I have been using my brothers hand me down board ( Forum board – not sure what type of board it is) but I’ve noticed when i borrowed my friends YES Emoticon board – it was unisex or womens- it made a huge difference in my riding, i felt faster and it was definitely lighter, easy to carve and felt effortless.
I am about 5 ft 2, weigh about 135-138 pounds, size 7.5 -8 shoes.
What board would you recommend? I was looking at a few of these ones that i read off your reviews that i liked :
1. Capita Birds of a Feather ( friend said she might be willing to part with it if I like it)
2. Capita paradise
3. Rossignol Frenemy
4. YES Hello
5. Never Summer Infiiniti
( Burton has the step on system that looks cool- any thoughts on that? )
I dont know anything about boot brands, or bindings so any insight would be great.
Thanks in advance! Looking forward to hearing back from you 🙂
Hi Melissa
Thanks for your message.
Everything from that list would be suitable except the Birds of a Feather, IMO, just because the Birds of a Feather is a little above the level you’re describing. I think you’d be better off one of the other 4. But if you had a chance to try it and really liked it, then it could be a possibility. I would probably be leaning YES Hello, given that you liked the Emoticon. It’s certainly not the same board as the Emoticon, but boards within a brand often have some common personality traits.
I haven’t tested Step-Ons yet (one thing that’s eluded me since they came out), but hoping to get some shortly to try out. I’ve heard good things, but can’t say from experience yet. If you did go Step On, I think the Limelight step ons would be the best bet for your setup and your level.
Size-wise, I would be looking at something between 143 and 146
Check out the following for boot and binding options. I would be looking at around a 4/10 to 6/10 flex for boots and bindings, depending on the board you went with.
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
This what you are doing is really amazing! Such a lot of detailed reviews and comparisons… And not to mention all that advises and replies to all questions…really inspirational!
Hope you will find some time to review my case 🙂
I am 184 cm (6 feet), 84 kg (185 lbs) with boot size US 11 (290 cm). I would say I am an intermediate rider, probably on the begging of the intermediate scale. So far I was riding rented boards and now I want to buy a good board and bindings.
I don’t have trouble riding any kind of pistes, I am at 50-60% riding switch but still practice.
I have also started hitting some jumps and carving a bit more aggressive and deeper. I do a bit of buttering. If we talk about powder I am crazy about it but unfortunately, I can do it maybe 30% of the time. There are snow parks around me.
Snow conditions are mixed in general – sunny with perfect groomers, then it often turns to icy conditions, in the afternoons it’s bumpy very often and from time to time there are conditions for chasing powder as well.
I have watched tons of reviews, yours and others, did comparisons but I think I overextended it and got lost, so I would really appreciate hearing your advice.
I have Burton ruler boots (speed lace) and as per my understanding, I should go for Union Force, Strata, or maybe Falcor?
When we are on the snowboard I am not sure anymore which one can do it the best for me.
Could you please be so kind and propose me 3-4 snowboards?
I think I can easily find Salomon, Burton, Nitro, GNU, Yes, Jones. LibTech is usually too expensive for me.
Thank you!
Hi Dalibor
Thanks for your message.
Given that it sounds like you’re looking to do a wide variety of things, I think an all-mountain board makes sense. So, I would look at something (from the brands you mention) like:
– YES Typo
– Jones Mountain Twin
– Burton Process Flying V or Custom Flying V (still good as an intermediate board) – though not so good in icy conditions, in my experience
– Nitro Team Gullwing
– Nitro Cinema (I haven’t ridden this one, but on paper it looks like a very good low intermediate option)
– Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker (if it’s not out of your price range)
What bindings you go with will depend partly on the board you choose, but the Force or Strata would be the best options for what you’re describing. The Falcor a little stiffer.
Size-wise, I would be looking at that 157-160 range.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thank you for your thoughts, I really appreciate it.
I’ve searched a little bit and these are the boards that are available in my size and I can afford:
Very good price:
– Yes Basic
– Capita DOA
– Capita Outer Space Living (I see this one is 2nd on your list)
– Rome Agent
Good price:
– Nitro Team / Team Exposure
– LibTech TRS HP, Swiss Knife, Cold Brew, Skate Banana
Could you please help to narrow the selection? 🙂
All of the above listed are available in a Wide version which I think I should go for since my boot is US 11, do you agree?
Thanks a lot! Can’t wait to see your thought and order my first board 🙂
Hi Dalibor
From your very good price list, I would be leaning Outerspace Living, since you like to ride powder, and it’s the best of those options in powder, IMO. I don’t know the Rome Agent from experience, but based on specs, I would say that the OSL is better in powder.
From the Good Price list, the Cold Brew and Swiss Knife the better powder options. The Swiss Knife probably a little too much board for intermediate. Cold Brew an option. The TRS would be suitable, but not that great for powder.
The Team camber is a little more aggressive than the Gullwing version and not as good in powder. Doable, but might just be that bit past low-intermediate. Fine for solid intermediate, IMO, but it’s borderline, but doable. But still not amazing in powder, IMO.
Yeah with 11s, most of the time the wide version will be most appropriate. If you narrow down to a couple of options, I would be happy to look at the sizings and see which is most appropriate, but yeah most of the time with 11s, wide is the best bet.
Hi Nate,
I’ve spent 10 days in the mountain in meantime and I think I improved my riding a lot compared to the last season (I’ve done a lot of leg workouts last months to prepare for it and it paid off).
Let me summarize what board I am searching now:
– good for carving progression (I am trying to push it to my limits),
– stable at higher speeds (I maxed out to 90km/h on the black run), – good for powder (if there is the powder I am out there)
– and if it’s ok for riding switch and little of butters in the meantime it would be awesome, but it’s not the must…
If I get it right, Capita Outerspace Living and Mercury should meet above, but I think Mercury is still for more Advanced riders, right?
Besides them, do you think Yes Typo and Jones Mountain Twin are ok as well?
This is a filtered/narrowed list of the ones I can easily order and that match my price range so I would really appreciate it if you can check it as well and suggest the 2-3 boards from it [link removed]?
My boot is 11, so I would also like to know if you think I need a Wide version of the suggested ones.
Thanks a lot Nate!
Hi Dalibor
From those options for what you’re describing, I would be looking at:
– Lib Tech Dynamo 159W
– GNU Mullair 159W (if you think you’ve really progressed. This is a more advanced board, but meets everything really well except the butters/switch)
– GNU Antigravity 159W
– Capita Outerspace Living 159W (though not as good for powder as the other 3.
The Mullair is the most stable at speed and best carver of those 4. The OSL is the most intermediate friendly and the best for riding switch and butters. The other 2 in between. For what you’re describing, I would probably be leaning either Lib Tech Dynamo, if you want something that’s a little easier to ride or Mullair, if you want to really maximize speed and carving, but with a steeper learning curve.
The Typo is probably a little too playful for what you’re describing and maybe the OSL too? The Mountain Twin would work I think, but I didn’t see it on the list there. The Mercury too would work. It’s a little more advanced but no more than something like the Mullair. But I didn’t see the Mercury on the list either.
In most cases going wide with 11s is recommended and for these options I would go wide for all of them with 11s.
Hi Nate,
I just discovered your site and I can’t stop to read, so many useful advices.
I would say I have a pretty decent level, I did one full season in USA 6 years ago, 4-5 times per week during 3 months and at the end of season i didn’t have any trouble for ride any kind of pistes maybe I couldn’t go really fast in black ones and I had to stop but nothing really important also I was staring to jump and I was feeling pretty confident.
After that I went to the mountain couples of time in my country (Chile) but not really often but that changed last year when I moved to France and I was very happy when I knew that the parents of my girlfriend had an apartment just in front of a bottom lift chair in a station in the alpes (Yes, lucky me) because the emotion to know that i will back to the mountains and because I was a bit in the rush I got a equipment without really think if these would match with my kind of ride.
I got the GNU money 2020 (1.52) with union Flite and vans encore boots, My first rides were ok, i had some trouble at the beginning but at the end of the day I could remember mostly of the moves and after of the season (2020) I think I got my level back where I leave it few years ago.
Unfortunately this season doesn’t start yet (because the covid) and look very complicated also there is some chances that never start. However, the apartment still there and the snow too, so I climbed the mountain already 5-6 times and I enjoyed some rides, yes, 1 per time but better than nothing and also the only good point, mountain was just for me and the snow was awesome, thanks to this I realised what kind of ride I like, I would say I like to carve all around, ride moguls, and ride next to the pistes where there are some pow (or more snow), but also try to get any chance for jump, spin and play around but nothing really complex at least for the moment. I also practice surf and surfskate and I think my style is pretty much same, carver and some basic tricks.
About my equipment I can say Im very happy with the boots are really comfortable, the board feel good, its very easy to ride, turn and Im very satisfied with the flex, I think the only bad point is when I put into some pow this one float but sometimes is a bit hard keep the nose up even If I set up the bindings closer to the tail, but all the rest is pretty ok and also I think is very hard to know the real sensations because after climb 3 hrs my legs were a bit tired and doesn’t feel in his best shape. Bindings are ok, they are conformable but maybe a bit soft but I didn’t try many of them so I can’t compare.
Well after this long intro I would like some advices for my next purchases, I know is pretty soon for change and Im pretty sure I didn’t get the best of this combo but just in case as the season is compromited and I think there will have some good offers, maybe I can change some parts of my equipment for continue improving.
I will appreciate any kind of advice.
Im 5’65 and 155lbs and my size of boots is 10.
Thanks again!
Hi Felipo
Thanks for your message.
Hope your season gets going at some point. I have heard from others in France who are also frustrated that nothing has opened yet. Sounds like you have a great setup with having the apartment at the bottom of a lift – hopefully for you that lift starts running soon. But good effort doing the hikes.
I think you would benefit from stiffer bindings for sure and in terms of the board, for your style, something with a little more powder performance would be a good idea, IMO. Since you also like to do jumps, spins etc, I think something all-mountain would be a good bet.
Something all-mountain from this list or from here:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Size-wise, I think you’re pretty good with your current 152 and I would be looking in that 151-154 range for your specs. If you narrow down to a few boards, I would be happy to give specific sizing recs for each board.
For bindings, I would go up to something around a 5/10 to 7/10 flex. If you decide to change the board, then I would choose the board first, then decide on the bindings, which will depend on the board you get. If you stick with the Money, then I would look at something 5/10 or 6/10 in terms of flex. Some options in the links below:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
First at all thanks very much for the answer, it has been very helpful and match pretty much with I was thinking.
After a fast read of your top 10, I decided have a deeper look among the more playful boards instead of agressives, considering that I think I’m a decent rider but far away to be too agressive yet, I have preferred stay on the playful side but at same time I’d like something that give me better sensations in pow, allow me carve a little bit better, ride on uneven terrain and play around. So after read the reviews I think the next boards could match with me. (I hope I did well)
Burton custom flying V 154
Yes Typo 152-155?
Slash Brainstorm 154
Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker 154
Dinosaurs also caught my attention but I couldn’t find any store who commercialise it here.
I put the size that I consider could work good on me, I have decided go to the longer side of my range and give a bit more of volume for go better in pow but hoping that this 2cm extra of my actual board don’t penalise the playful side. I think shouldn’t make a big difference but if you think different I’d be happy to read ur opinion.
About the prices, by the moment the flying V is the most expensive, TW and the slash are pretty much same price and the typo is around 50€ cheaper. As I’m not in the rush I can wait for see if the prices get down, but anyway if you consider that some of them would match better with me then the price wouldn’t be a problem.
Relative to the bindings, I think Union force or Union Strata should be good up grade than my actual, there isn’t a big difference of price between them (20€) so if these ones match with the boards above.. which one you consider better? and also these bindings would match with the Money?
Thanks again fo all the helps!
Hi Felipo
I think that’s a good list and good sizing-wise. I think the only one I would cross off would be the Typo – and the only reason is because you’re looking for extra powder performance and I don’t think the Typo would be that much noticeably better in powder.
Any of the other 3 would work well, IMO, and going to 154 on whichever one you choose, should work fine for you, IMO.
In terms of bindings, both the Strata and the Force would be good matches with an of those boards, IMO and would work fine with the Money too. Overall I prefer the Strata personally, but there are pros and cons. The Strata has better board feel, IMO and a little more spring to them. The Force are more adjustable. There are other things too, but overall both are good options, but I would personally go Strata, just because I like the feel of them a little more.
Thanks Nate!
I think I’ll take the Strata soon and then at the end of the season I think I’ll go for the Slash or TW, I think I slightly prefer the TW cos the flex and pop, look like is a little bit more playful and also the graphic just sick! but anyway both look really great.
Thanks for all the helps I gonna back to write when I have some news.
Felipo
You’re very welcome Felipo. Look forward to hearing from you.
Hey, I appreciate all the insight. I have had three knee surgeries and just got back riding this year…my son is 6 and will probably be better than me by the end of the season. I am intermediate rider and just working with him. I ride a 2005 K2 Instinct that is super aggressive. I would like an all mountain board that is forgiving and can show him some fun stuff but still carve a steep run. I like the NS ProtoSX, but not sure where to start?
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Hi Jason
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Proto Synthesis would certainly be more forgiving than your old K2 Instinct. It’s not what I would call an ultra-playful forgiving board, but one that sits right in between playful and aggressive. If you wanted to go more playful, then the Snowtrooper is a great option from NS, but you do loose a little in terms of carving. The Slash Brainstorm, YES Typo, Rossi Templar all fit the bill too as easier going all-mountain boards. But I would also check out the following for options:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Some are less forgiving than others in there, but happy to answer any questions on those boards, if you narrow them down to a few options.
Hey looking for some advice on choosing a board. I am deciding between the Process FV, Process Camber, Custom FV, Jones Mountain Twin, Capita Mercury, and the Bataleon Goliath after only riding Burton LTR’s up until now. I’m 5 foot 9, 173 pounds, size 10-10.5 boot in 157-159 size boards. I mainly ride resorts in Colorado and Utah 10 days a year and have for the past 4 years. I just like to go down the mountain at a good speed, nothing dangerous, and make S turns. I wouldn’t say I carve cause i’ve seen how low people who claim to carve get and that’s not where I’m at yet. I do skidded turns and S’s. I don’t know how hard it is to catch an edge having only used beginner boards and I haven’t caught an edge in a since my early days but I hear it’s more likely with cambers which are less forgiving. I do have a little trouble flat lining down blues and blacks but I’m thinking it’s either the chatter beneath an LTR or it’s just I’m not good yet lol could honestly be either.
With that in mind, I’m concerned about the camber versions of the custom and process cause I’m not sure if suddenly I’ll start catching edges. It’s the reason I’m considering the FV versions and the Goliath. The Capita seems like it might be a level above my skill but I’m not 100% sure and was hoping you could cast some light on the analysis. I’d also like to know which board profile handles flats better? Thanks for your videos!
Hi Jelly
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, the Mercury is probably going to be a step too far, IMO, so I would firstly cross that off.
Between the Process FV and Camber, going from LTR boards, I think the Flying V will be an easier and more enjoyable transition. And I think from what you’re describing, it will be more suited to your level. The Process Camber isn’t full camber (it’s Burton’s “PurePop” camber, which is a little more forgiving) but even so, it’s not as easy going as the Flying V version and can be a little catchy for skidded turns.
I don’t test Bataleon boards, so I’m not sure how catchy or uncatchy they tend to feel with that 3BT. It’s probably OK, but I haven’t ridden anything Bataleon, so I couldn’t say for sure.
Custom FV is a bit of step up from the Process FV, but still nothing too crazy. Very easy going camber profile, same as on the Process FV of course, but a little stiffer. I think it would be doable and would give you a little more stability at speed versus the Process FV.
Mountain Twin I think is doable for what you’re describing. Certainly a big step up from the LTR but I think it’s doable, if it’s 2021 model. Earlier models were less forgiving, but I think the 2021 model would be fine for you.
In terms of straight lining it down blues and blacks, you would be getting more stability from something with more camber – and with stiffer flex – but you’ve got to weigh that up between having something that’s too much board to handle and getting those advantages. Versus the LTR boards, you should get more stability from any of these boards (haven’t ever been on a Burton LTR, but I assume it’s soft flexing and a very easy going camber and everything else – designed to learn on, not to go fast on).
So I would say either Process FV, if you want the easiest most comfortable transition from the LTR. Custom Flying V if you want a slightly bigger step and Mountain Twin if you want a slightly bigger step again. The Goliath potentially but I’m not sure. Mercury a step too far, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I asked you for your recommendations last year and the year before and just wanted to say thank you so much for what you do! I first got the boots (32 lashed) & bindings (Union trilogy) you recommended 2 years ago and then was able to pick up the Capita Paradise board at the end of that season (on a great sale). Now that I can finally go in and ride and try the new set-up, I had to tell you that I am LOVING riding so much more than I ever have.
It feels so much easier to steer/carve my board after I took your advice and went shorter. I can’t believe I have been struggling so long riding a 148 when I could have sized down to 143-145. It has definitely been a very playful start to the season. Thank you! Anyway, I just wanted to pop by and say thanks a bunch and I hope you are well!
Also, I wanted to ask you, how do you judge when it is time to get new snowboard boots? I am starting to pack out my boots (~2.5 seasons of use now) but I am thinking if I add some extra J bars I could lessen the heel lift & maybe getting new liners might make it seem not as broken in?
**sorry not liners but insoles… maybe new insoles would make the boot not seem as packed?
Hi Shannon
Awesome to hear you’re having a great start to the season and glad to hear your gear is treating you well.
If your boots are otherwise in good condition, then yeah, you could certainly try adding in jbars and new footbeds. New liners would also certainly help. Trying to remember if 32 boots came with heel hold kits a couple of season’s back. They do now, which would be helpful, but not sure if they did then – but you can certainly get jbars to put in there.
I wouldn’t say there’s any set time to change boots, it really depends. I have found I can have some boots for over 100 days and by that point they’re getting pretty soft but still good. Other boots I’ve had for much less and they’ve broken down on me, so I had to change them.
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for your amazing support and willingness to share your expertise!
Like others, I have gone through a lot of your posts and comments and have come up with a decent idea of what I want. Most of the shops are sold out of a lot of the brands so the last course is ordering online. For that , wanted to make sure I am making the right decision ! Here are some details and I am wondering if you can please help validate my understanding
Skill level: Early Intermediate (Started 3 winters ago and can do Blues and occasional black in Colorado)
Riding conditions: mostly icy (Midwest) but occasionally powder (CO one week every year), All mountain preference – don’t foresee doing terrain parks at all. Plan to ride every week this winter
Height and weight: 5’10 and 195lb, shoe size 10
Best fit per your recommendations to others:
Yes Typo and Never Summer Snow trooper – 159 board length. Leaning towards Typo since it is cheaper!
Hope I put down the right info. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Hi Nik
Thanks for your message.
You’ve made my job easy for this one! I think you’re spot on with those selections for what you’re describing with the Typo 158 and Snowtrooper 159. There isn’t a wrong choice between those 2, IMO, for what you’re describing, so if money is a factor, then the Typo is a good bet – also the Typo is a little better in icy conditions. The Snowtrooper still decent there, but I would say Typo a little better, in my experience.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much. Appreciate you taking out time to answer all questions individually. Have already recommended a few beginner friends of mine to your website to get reliable information!
You’re very welcome Nik – and thanks for the recommendations!
Hi Nate,
Right now I’m looking for a new board and hopefully you can help me taking a decision. I’m 5’7, 195 lbs and currently I’m riding a K2 Standard 151, which might be a bit short for my weight.
I think I’m at a low/mid intermediate level, mostly ride groomers, once in a while do some park features but not very often to be honest. I’m trying to get better at carving (right now I feel that with the K2 is hard to carve, but it might also be a lack of technique, I’ll try to take a couple more lessons soon) and I’m also trying to go faster and when I try to do that with the Standard, it doesn’t feel stable at all…
So I’m looking for a board that’s decent for carving, a board that feels stable at higher speeds and something that has a good edge hold in hard snow/icy conditions.
I have a list of boards that I’m looking at:
Niche Story
Rossignol One LF
Nitro Team Camber
Yes Standard
Yes Greats
Jones Mountain Twin
Capita Outerspace Living.
The main candidate right now is the Yes Greats, I really like what it offers and how it looks, but I would like to hear what you think about that board for someone like me. If not, maybe you can help me narrow down the list or if you have any other suggestion, your help would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Oscar
Thanks for your message.
Yeah 151 too short for you, IMO – and the Standard, though a great beginner board, not so good for once you’re starting to progress and ride faster and start carving properly.
Sizewise, I would say anything in the range 155-157 would be a good range to look at.
Your list has some really suitable options for what you’re describing in it. I would probably cross off the Story, just because it’s a little higher ability level, IMO – probably want to be a more high-end intermediate for that one. Might be doable but when there are so many other options, not necessary to take that chance.
Everything else there is going to give you a good step up from the Standard – and with the size increase, you’re going to notice some real difference in terms of stability at speed and for carving.
I think with the Greats you want to be a solid intermediate rider – like mid-level intermediate, rather than low level. So if you feel confident that you’re there, then I think it’s a good option. It’s only real weakness is in powder (where it’s certainly not terrible, but it’s average). If you only ride powder occasionally it would be fine, but if you’re riding a lot of powder, particularly deeper powder, then I would go with something more powder friendly.
I can give you some specific sizing opinions on those boards if you narrow down the list to 2-3 options and if you can also let me know your boot size.
Thank you so much for your response. Based on what you told me, I think I narrowed down the list to 3 options:
Rossignol One LF
Yes Standard
Yes Greats
I think those 3 are the best ones for hard snow/icy conditions and usually those are the conditions when I ride (you can correct me if I’m wrong).
For the Greats, I don’t really ride powder very often, maybe 2-3 times per season, that’s why I have it on my list.
Right now I’m looking at a decent deal for the Rossi One LF from last year (19-20) and I wanted to ask you if there’s a big difference from last year’s model to the one for this year. If there’s not a big difference I might consider getting the one from last year.
And if you can give me your opinion for sizing on the 3 boards I mentioned, that’ll be great.
Again, thanks for the help!
Hi Oscar
Yeah, I would say those are best 3 options in icy conditions, assuming crossing off the Niche Story, which is also really good in ice. The Team and Mountain Twin still pretty good in icy conditions, but those 3 the best of that list, IMO.
The One LF hasn’t changed in years, so the 19-20 would be essentially the same as the 20-21, apart from the graphic. Assuming you can get the right size, going last year versus this year makes sense.
Size-wise, if you could just let me know your boot size, so I can give a more accurate opinion.
Hi Nate,
Again, thanks for your comments. Per your suggestion, I crossed off the Niche Story. Right now my boots are Burton Photon Step on Wide Size 8, and if I end up getting the One LF, it’ll probably be a 156. I wanna see what you think about that.
Hi Oscar
Yeah, I think the 156 Rossi One LF would be a good option. It’s a sizing down a little in terms of length, but with size 8s, I think it’s a good size for you.
For the Greats, I would say 154 and for the Standard probably 153, but 156 would be doable too, just getting on the wide side. I think 154 Greats or 156 Rossi One.
Sorry for bothering again.
Right now (and because they’re available locally), I’m leaning more towards the Yes Standard or the Jones Mountain Twin. Out of the two, which one do you think would work better for me? And for the Jones what do you think would be a good size?
Thanks again.
Hi Oscar
For the Mountain Twin, I would be debating between the 157 and 154. Between the 2 sizes, it depends on what you want to optimize. If you want more stability at speed and float in powder, with some sacrifice in terms of maneuverability at slow speeds, then 157 definitely works for your height/weight, but it’s going to be quite wide for your boots. The 154 is still on the wide side for your boots, but sizing down that length will make it better for quicker edge-to-edge transitions. I would be leaning 154, but if you think you want to optimize stability more, then 157 is definitely doable, for sure.
Kind of the same debate between the 153 and 156 Standard, except that I think the 156 Standard is too wide altogether and probably wouldn’t go there with 8s.
I think I would be leaning Mountain Twin – both are really good boards, but I just think the sizing on the Mountain Twin works better for you.
Per your recommendation I went with the Jones Mountain Twin 154 (I love the graphics on it) and I definitely like how it feels. I already rode it twice and I can feel already that I can do things I wasn’t able to do before; going faster and carving are actual things that I can get better on now that I have a more capable board. I’m loving it so far, thanks again!!!
Hi Oscar
Thanks for your update. And awesome to hear that the board is treating you well so far. Happy riding!
Hey Nate!
I’m pretty new to boarding, I’ve been about 6 days total (5 of which are this season) and I’m really getting into it. I got a pass for the first time this year and will probably be going once to twice a week this season hopefully. I’m based in Colorado, and I’ve been borrowing a friend’s old K2 raygun 156 cm but looking to get my own board! I’d say I’m an upper level beginner maybe, I feel quite confident with turns and hitting blues and I’ve hit a couple black runs by accident (oops!). I’m 6’2″ and about 175 lbs with 11 US boot size, I’ve been looking at a lot of the boards on your beginner/intermediate lists and having a tough time narrowing stuff down. Any recommendations on what board I should get/the size would be really appreciated!
Thanks,
Mathieu
Hi Mathieu
Thanks for your message.
If you’re not quite sure how you’re going to ride yet, then I would look at something all-mountain, as it gives you the most versatility. That should narrow it down a bit. If you’re feeling confident in your riding so far and you’re going to be riding a lot this season – like if you end up getting say 25-40 days in, then I think going with something from this list, rather than the beginner one, makes sense. So, I would be looking at something like:
– Ride Wildlife
– Rossi Templar
– Slash Brainstorm
– Burton Process Flying V
– Never Summer Snowtrooper
– YES Typo
If you don’t think you’ll be riding powder that much and want to focus more on the park, then you could one of the more freestyle options, but otherwise, that’s what I’d look at. I know that doesn’t completely narrow it down, but all would be good options, IMO.
Size-wise, I think 156-158 would be a good range to look at for your specs/level. With size 11s you’re on the cuff between regular and wide. In some cases you’ll get away with a regular width, but more often that not going wide makes more sense with 11s. Right now, you’ll probably have no issues with riding a regular width board, but once you progress and start getting into carving (which is a little different from regular turns) and really leaning into your carves, you might run into issues with a regular width board, depending on a few different things. If you can narrow down your list to 2-3 options, I would be happy to give specific sizing advice depending on the board.
Hope this helps
Awesome,
Thanks so much Nate! I’ll get back to you when I end up choosing a board but I think I’m really deciding between the Typo, Templar, and Wildlife. Looks like the Typo and Templar have a 156W and the Wildlife has a 158W. I think I’m leaning most towards the Typo but I’m sure couldn’t go wrong with any of these 3. Really appreciate your help/advice!
Best,
Mathieu
Hey Nate,
I’ve actually just found a flying V 157cm Wide in stock at REI and I think I’m almost for sure getting this one, seems like a dope board. Do you think that would be a good size for the V? Thanks again Nate!! Really appreciate all you do to help people get into the sport
Best,
Mathieu
Hi Mathieu
I think that’s a really good size for you and think it will work well for what you’re describing. Happy riding!
Hello Nate!!
I am in the market for a new snowboard and was really hoping you could help me narrow it down a little. I currently ride a Rossignol Circuit 155, which I knew was rather small for me as I’m 5’9″ and 235lbs and only started riding in February 2020. I’ve scoured you’re sight multiple times and have a fairly extensive list built already but the more I look the longer the list gets lol. I would say that I’m progressing super quickly and feel like I’m at the intermediate level, which feels strange to say. I would like to get a board that would be good to progress with further but have no interest in running in the park. Powder, groomers, trees and eventually freeriding is where I see myself wanting to play and have fun. Also don’t want to have multiple boards, so a 1 board quiver would be my comfort level, and I’m willing to spend extra if that’s what it takes. Any help you might be able to offer would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Hi Brad
Thanks for your message.
Since it sounds like your leaning more towards freeriding, I would go with an all-mountain board or a very easy going freeride board.
The Ride Wildlife is kind of in between all-mountain and freeride, so I think that would be a good next step up from the Circuit.
The Rossi Templar would also certainly work – or if you wanted to go one step further, you could also look at the Rossi One LF.
The Slash Brainstorm is another solid choice too.
There are a lot of boards that would fit what you’re describing, so I can understand why that list got long!
Another couple of options, that are more freeride oriented, but easy going enough for an intermediate level are the GNU Hyperkyarve and Capita Navigator.
I could add in more options, but don’t want to make the list too long. But yeah, if you’re fairly confident of an intermediate level and wanted to go more directional than an all-mountain board – like if you really have no interest in riding switch or freestyle, then something like the Hyperkyarve and Navigator could work. Or one of the all-mountain options there.
Size-wise, as an advanced level rider at an all-mountain size, I would say around 162, 163, but as a more intermediate level and given you want to ride trees, I think something around 159-161 would be a good range to look at.
Hope this helps
Thank you very much. That really helps
You’re very welcome Brad. Happy riding!
Thank you for the great advice Nate. I just picked up a GNU Hyper Kyarve 160. Looking forward to trying it out this weekend at my local hill before I head out to the mountain after Christmas
Hi Brad
Nice one! If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on.
Hey Nate,
My name is Gonzalo. I have a question for you. Last year I had a bad accident which resulted in me cracking my board and I am looking for a new one. I would prefer an all-around board. My sizes are a is a 158cm and 10.5 US. I decided to go all out and get the new burton step-on as I deal with my children a lot who are skiers and having to stop and lock my back leg in is quite a hassle with them. Do you have a recommendation on what to ride on for this upcoming season? I ride all-around and enjoy downhill rides carving and flying down. I live in aspen colorado and ride at Snowmass/buttermilk ( if you are familiar with those areas) It is only icy in the mornings and maybe some rough patches here and there but besides that, it’s very easy going. I only ride blues, reds, and greens and the occasional park. Can you help me out?
Hi Gonzalo
Thanks for your message.
Something all-mountain from this list could work well or you could also check out:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
From what you’re describing I think an all-mountain board is a good way to go. To try to narrow it down a bit further:
– Would you consider yourself low intermediate, solid intermediate or advanced?
– How aggressively do you like to ride. Do you like to really bomb and carve hard or are you more casual/playful or something in between?
– When you say your size is 158cm – you mean that’s your preferred board size? If so, all good we can look at around that size. But if you meant that’s your height and also looking for a sizing opinion, can you also let me know your weight (which is important for sizing).
Hey Nate,
This will be my 3rd season so I am finally looking for my new board. I am 180cm, 78kg with 44 EU 32 Lashed Double BOA from 2019. Most of the time I am riding at resort so looking for do it all snowboard (to try everything – park, freeride, allmtn). I am trying to carve, learning to switch and some buttering. I wanted to buy Burton Process Flying V but sometimes in resorts they are hard snow / icy conditions and I am afraid that board would not perform. What board would you recommend? What are the best binding to go with Burton Process ? Union Strata / Burton Mission / Burton Cartel / Union Force?
Hi Maciek
Thanks for your message.
Yeah the biggest downside of the Process Flying V is the edge hold in icy conditions. Otherwise, I think it would suit your purposes well, I think. But yeah, if you ride in hard/icy conditions regularly, then that’s the biggest downside of it.
I think the Never Summer Snowtrooper, YES Typo and Rossignol Templar would all be great choices. And the Slash Brainstorm would work well too – just not quite as natural for riding switch, but still pretty good for riding switch.
Size-wise, depending on the board, I think something between 156 and 158 would work well for your specs, how you’re describing your riding and ability level. Depending on the particular board.
In terms of bindings, it would depend on the board. For the Process, all the options you mention would be suitable, though I would probably be leaning towards Burton Mission, just because of a slightly better flex-match. But you would get a little more quality out of the other 3.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thanks for the answer! My biggest issue is that I can not find any shop with YES/Never Summer boards. I will check this Rossi board! I was in shop yesterday and they also said I could think about Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker / Jones Snowboards Mountain Twin (this is your 2nd place on all mtn boards). Biggest questions is if I will be able to ride them with my skill level. Lib Tech got this magna traction which would help me on icy conditions and I am reading very good reviews about this Jones boards. What do you think? This board selection is really confusing. I am still leaning towards Burton Process. Is this edge hold really that bad on icy conditions?
Hi Maciek
If you’re looking at the 2021 Mountain Twin, I think that would be doable. They’ve made some changes and it’s a more easy going ride than it was in past models. 2020 and earlier and it might be a little above your skill level.
I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker yet (have one lined up for this winter to try, but haven’t got on it yet), but on paper, I think it would certainly work for what you’re describing. Hard to say what it’s like to ride in terms of skill level, but if it rides like other similar boards from Lib Tech, it’s potentially a little above the skill level, but might be OK. Hard to say for sure, having not ridden it.
For the Process Flying V, if you were to regular get the edges sharpened, you might get away with it. But it’s not a board I’ve ever liked in hard/icy conditions. And it’s whether you want to have to get it sharpened that often or not?
Hey Nate!
Out of the Terrain Wrecker 2021 / Mountain twin 2021 / Burton Process flying V which one would you pick?
From what I see Terrain Wrecker have very similar hybrid build to Burton Process. Rocker in the middle and camber on the foots. So should this boards be similar to each other? Biggest difference is that Terrain got this magna traction which could help me a lot. Shame I can not copy Burton graphic on Lib tech board.
There comes the mountain twin which have very good reviews…
and last is Burton which seems that the best for my skill level but could be very bad on icy conditions which happenes…
Hi Maciek
I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker yet (actually have one now to test now, finally! (it’s a board I’ve been trying to test for a couple of years now) But waiting for slightly better snow conditions/more terrain to be open before testing it) – but I wouldn’t say that it’s similar to the Process Flying V, just based on other similar Lib Tech/GNU boards that have the C2X profile. C2X profile has a good bit more camber than the Flying V, IMO, and the Flying V is also different in that it has rocker between the feet, camber underfoot and then rockers again out towards the tip and tail – as opposed to C2X which has rocker between the feet and then camber under the feet and out to tip and tail – there are no extra rocker sections before the contact points. But yes, IMO, the Terrain Wrecker should be a good bit better in hard/icy conditions.
The Mountain Twin 2021 model is more easy going than its predecessors, so it’s certainly intermediate friendly. I wouldn’t say its quite friendly enough to be a beginner board, but low-intermediate should be OK.
Hey Nate!
Thanks for all your comments. After all I reserched in Internet I will try to get Jones Mountain Twin 159W. If I can’t get it I will try for Burton Process 157W.
I’ve been in 2-3 shops and they really don’t recommend libtech/gnu boards due to their weak baseplate.
Got great offer for Malavitas 2020 (-45% from regular price).
Will size L be good? I am now using Lashed 44 EU but 32 seems to be a little bit not true to size. For sneakers I mostly wear 43. I have wide feet that’s why I went a little bit over my size for more comfort but still nice heel hold. I am just afraid if I change boots L binding will be too big.
Do you think Malavitas will fit this 2 boards well or should I aim for Cartels 2021? Tried so hyped Union Strata but toe strap is not for me. Burton fit, comfort wise is just much more better than Unions.
Hi Maciek
I haven’t had any issues with Mervin (GNU/Lib Tech) boards before. But I haven’t owned one, just demoed them, so I couldn’t say how they go over the long term. But I have been doing this for a number of years and I’ve never heard anyone else mention that. Not even sure what they mean about baseplate? That’s not a term you would commonly associate with a snowboard (there are baseplates on bindings though). Or do they mean the base? Even so, I haven’t heard of Mervin having weak bases, particularly not their sintered bases.
Anyway, in terms of Burton bindings, the L should be a good fit for EU44, which is a US10.5 in 32 boots, if I’m not mistaken. Assuming that translation they will be fine. If you end up in a 43 (assuming a translation to US10 – sorry my brain works in US sizes!) you should be fine in the L still. Any smaller than that you’d want medium, but should still be fine in a US10 in the L Burton Malavita.
The Malavita would certainly work with both the Mountain Twin and the Process, IMO.
Hi Nate,
As all others have said, this post and website has been immensely helpful to navigate snowboarding terminology and decision-making. After spending an increasingly embarrassing amount of time on research, the Yes Typo is by far my #1 choice. I rode in SoCal about a dozen times as my first season (I fell in love), and I’m looking for an early intermediate board that won’t stunt my growth if I ride a lot this one.
My challenge is a lot of these websites have the Typo’s 155cm model at a 120-160lb weight range. I’m 5’9.5″, 165lbs, 8.5 – 9 boot and a 9.5-10 shoe. All of the calculators suggest 156cm or 157cm given my specs. I mostly intend to ride Big Bear and Summit, with a Tahoe trip planned in February with an optimistic future at Whistler and other locations. My friends and I are casual carvers, not intending to hit jumps in the immediate future, but would like to be able to link turns at good speeds down the mountain.
Should I bite on the 155cm Typo? Or the 158cm? I can also concede into getting a more appropriately matched 156cm Capita OL, but Big Bear felt kind of icy until the sun cooled off late afternoon. Your comments about the OL and guides I have read state that is the OL’s weakness.
I have not yet purchased boots and bindings, but will defer to your guides on both as stated in other posts depending on what board I pull the trigger on. Any advice would be great. Sizing is by far my biggest anxiety with a purchase right now.
Hi Jake
Thanks for your message.
I think the 155 Typo would be the best size for you. You certainly could ride the 158, but I would be leaning towards the 155. I’d put you on about a 156/157 for your specs, at an advanced level. 155 isn’t far off that and given an intermediate level, I think it’s spot on at 155. Also, I have the 155 at 120-180lbs in my review of it, which I got directly from YES’s website. Maybe the site you looked at that said 120-160 was a typo (pun intended)!
But yeah long story short, I think the 155 would be a really good size for you for the Typo.
Hope this helps with your decision and let me know if you need someone to bounce ideas off for bindings/boots choices.
Hey Nate, loving your reviews so hoping you can help me with what I feels a pretty big decision.
I’ve been riding quite a few years now, I’m no expert for sure! I’ve progressed through a couple boards, I still ride my Bataleon Riot (155) from years back and I switched it to a Bataleon The Jam (159) with Rome Katana Bindings and Northwave Legend Boots around 4 seasons ago.
I’m looking for a new intermediate set up something with a medium flex that rides well centred. Bindings and boot options would be good also! I’m conscious that Bataleon boards can ride very different from other boards so I’m in a bit of a dilemma.
Yes Typo / Burton Process / Endeavor Ranger??? HELP!
Hi DaveyR
Thanks for your message.
I don’t currently test Bataleon boards, so can’t give any insight into how they feel versus other brands.
If you can give me a few more specifics on how you’ll be using the board that would be great, to help narrow down the best options – i.e. how do you like to ride – do you just cruise the groomers, like to do ollies, jumps, spins, jibs, butters etc? Do you ride in the trees? Will you want it ride powder OK? Do you often ride in hard/icy conditions? A lot of uneven terrain or predominantly pretty smooth groomers? Are you looking to ride it more aggressively or more playfully, or somewhere in between? Just a bit more info would make it easier to narrow down your options.
Hey Nate
Thanks for the reply I mainly cruise groomers, I don’t ride too aggressive and prefer the board to be a little more playful so I can butter and ride switch. I ride most conditions but less so when it’s icy. I’m also 5’9” and about 175lbs.
Hi DaveyR
Thanks for the extra info.
The Typo would be a solid choice for what you’re describing, as would the Ranger – though it’s a bit more freestyle focused. But that said, it’s not something you have to do freestyle stuff on necessarily and it’s good for riding switch and buttering. The Process is a little more aggressive in the camber version (even though it’s not full camber, purepop camber is still a little more aggressive). The Process Flying V is very playful – not great in icy conditions, but if you’re not in them much it’s an option.
Size-wise:
Typo: 155 and 158 are both options. The 155 will be more playful, more buttery etc. But it’s already a pretty playful board so the 158 would definitely work too and still be playful.
Ranger: 156 or 158
Process Flying V: 155 or 157
This is all assuming you don’t need a wide board. If you can also let me know your boot size, just to make sure.
Of course there are other options too, but those would certainly work for what you’re describing.
For bindings, I would look to match any of these boards with bindings with around a 4/10 to 5/10 flex. Something from one of the following would work well, IMO.
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Boots, same kind of thing. You could ride up to 6/10 in boots in terms of flex and as soft as 4/10 if you prefer softer boots. Some options:
>>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
And fit is of course important and each brand tends to fit a little different. Trying on in person is the best option, but if that’s not possible (and it’s harder to do these days!), check out the following, to get some ideas of fit from different brands:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Hope this helps
This is all great for me to try narrow things down. I have a uk 9 boot size but I’m currently living in Canada and this will be the first set up I have bought here.
Hi DaveyR
With UK9 (typically equivalent of US10) you shouldn’t need to go wide. If you’re really concerned about the width, then try to go with a low profile boots, just to make sure, but yeah, you should be good on those options with UK9s.
I’m a UK size 9 I’ve recently moved to Canada so the new set up will be mainly used out west.
I think I’m going to pair the board choice with some cartels. Boots well that’s still a bit off but comfort is the over riding factor for me.
Hi DaveyR
Further to my previous reply.
The Cartel’s certainly work for any of those boards, IMO. For boots, in terms of comfort a lot of that comes down to fit for your particular foot, but some boots are objectively more comfortable. You can check out the score breakdowns on my boot reviews to check for comfort and other factors. For fit, which plays a key role in comfort, trying on is ideal, but second to that check out the link I sent in a previous reply
Hey Nate, just wanted to complement you on your super informative site for all levels of snowboarders, although admittedly a bit overwhelming for someone like me that’s not too familiar with all the terminology. But I wanted to thank you for helping me realize the reasons behind some of the issues I’ve experienced whenever I rent boards (I’ve never owned one). I’ve always been given board length recommendations based on my height, and never even heard anything about waist width, which I suspect is behind a lot of the issues I referred to.
My body specs are: 5’11”, 175lbs, size 9 boots (skinny ankles/calves). I’m almost always being steered to board lengths of 158+, but have found that turning on these longer boards is usually difficult, so I end up trading in for shorter boards (153-156). The shorter boards are easier to turn, but seem a lot slower.
I came across your site as I started doing research to purchase my own board finally in hopes of getting some consistency to improve my skill level. I consider myself an intermediate skill level in general, which I am basing on my ability to ride the blue runs (mostly without issue) and easier black diamond runs. However, I definitely run into trouble with the steeper slopes.
What I’m trying to pinpoint is that balance between maneuverability and speed based on my body specs, and have zeroed in on the CAPITA Outerspace Living based on your various reviews, waist width, and my style of riding (which I think is all-mountain generally speaking). Wondering if you would agree with this assessment and whether you’d recommend the 156 or 158 (will I still potentially have the turning issues with the 158) or a different board entirely? Also wondering if the Union Strata or Falcor bindings are a better fit for this board (or any board that would suit me)? Lastly, would you agree that the Vans Infuse is a good choice for skinny ankles/calves or is there a better option for that body type?
Sorry for the long winded background and resulting questions, and thank you for any advice you can provide in advance.
Hi Johnny
Thanks for your message.
For the OSL, for your specs and how you describing your riding/ability, the 156 would be your best size, IMO. It’s a good length/width combo for your specs, IMO. The 158 is doable too for you, and I think even in the 158 you’ll likely to find it easier to turn than rental boards, which are often quite heavy and cumbersome (not always depending on where you get it, but often). But yeah, I think the 156 would be the best bet.
In terms of bindings, the Strata would be the better match to the OSL, IMO. It’s a good flex match. The Falcor is a little stiffer. It would still work on the OSL, but the Strata would be better, IMO, and also better for your ability level too.
In terms of boots, the Infuse/vans boots in general are pretty good for skinny ankles/carves, IMO, but I would be leaning towards the Vans Invado Pro or Aura Pro, if you were to go Vans. Salomon, K2 & Ride are also worth trying. For more on fit by brand, check out:
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Hope this helps
Yes, definitely helps a lot. One question that comes to mind from reading your response is, as one’s skill level improves (generally speaking), do people naturally gravitate towards longer and stiffer boards (for freeride/all mountain styles) assuming it falls within their body specs and ability range?
Hi Johnny
Yeah, if you’re looking at that more freeride/all-mountain style – if you’re looking to gain a little more stability at speed and laying some harder, faster carves, then going stiffer/longer can certainly help there. Has to be tempered with what you give up in terms of agility, so it depends on if you like to ride trees a lot, or moguls etc. Or if you’re riding the park, then you would want to not go too long either. Also depends on how big your mountain is. If it’s pretty small and you’re not really able to get too much speed for too long, then you’ve got to consider that in terms of going too long or stiff too. And yeah definitely how long/stiff you go, depends on physical specs and strength too. But yeah generally as you progress going a bit longer and stiffer is typical.
Nate I can’t find my previous comment or your response. Is there any easy way to do that?
Hi Jeremy
Reply is on the top 10 all-mountain post, where you left your original comment – >>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
Oh just saw that you found it there – I will reply there
Hi Nate,
I’m stuck in a limbo on three boards and would really appreciate your professional and experienced advices:
1) 157cm, 2021 Capita Mercury (Pre-Ordered on impulse – graphic looks sick heeeeee, no option to cancel order) – $805
2) 157cm, 2020 Jones Mountain Twin (On hand, won as a free gift) – $Free
3) 155cm, 2021 YES Typo (Thinking of buying, have not bought it) $620 – 680
I know I might have jumped the gun and got too excited and hooked onto snowboarding that I bought boards that may be too advanced for me, please don’t bash me for it as I know I might have screwed up thus seeking for advice here so as to not waste any money further
Stats about me: 170-177lbs, 5’8″/9″
Experience Level: Approximately 10 days of riding under belt – I can now link turns in both directions on green (beginner) and intermediate (blue/red) slopes. Have attempted Blacks, but mostly ‘C’ turns on them. My turns are mostly skidded “S” shape turns. I’m from Australia and did okay on Blue/Red equivalent-Intermediate runs except for flat cat tracks where i kept catching an edge. (ICY GROUNDS :/)
Board used previously AND SOLD: Bought a second hand YES Basic (2011-2013 model) for a dirt cheap price instead of using rentals.
Days Planned to ride yearly: On average 7-14 days / year
Would like to seek for advice on the feasibility and/or practicality on the above mentioned three boards, with the following questions:
1) Is the YES Typo more forgiving board among the three mentioned above with the 2mm raise nose and tail rocker? As the Flex people reviewed actually feels like 4-5/10 instead of YES Rated at 6.10.
2) Are there a lot of overlap between these three boards?
3) Should I then purchase the YES Typo for better progression on board before moving to either the Mercury or Mountain Twin?
4a) If I should purchase the YES Typo, what size would be best? the 155 or 158?
4b) If I should NOT purchase the YES Typo, is it because of the overlap? And which board would be more forgiving to learn on and which to sell (Mercury or MT)?
I’m not sure if the Mountain Twin can “replace” the Typo as the ‘better choice’ board for me as I understand from reading some other forums and reviews that the 2020 Mountain Twin is not as stiff as Jones rated it to be 7/10 and feels more 5-6/10 instead. And the Typo I read that it feels like 4.5/10 instead of YES rating it as 6/10.
I’m in a dilemma now, whether to:
1) Sell the Mountain Twin or the Mercury and buy the Typo?
Or
2) sell both the Mountain Twin and Mercury and buy the Typo, as the Typo is at this very moment the best choice for me… (BTW, I’ve sold away the 2011-2013 YES Basic Already, I found it lost its profile shape etc alr…)
Thank you in advance!
Hi Louis
Thanks for your message.
1) Yes the Typo is the most forgiving board of the 3 you mentioned. And my feel for the Typo is a 4.5/10. YES’s flex ratings are typically overstated, IMO.
2). There’s a bit of overlap. They are similar-ish boards in terms of being the kind of thing you get as a one-board quiver. But they are different enough in feel. The Typo is a more playful feel, and is bordering on being more “all-mountain-freestyle”. The Mercury is a more aggressive ride and requires more technical skill to ride and a bit more “muscle”. The Mountain Twin is in between.
3) I think your best/fastest progression would be on the Typo
4a) If you get the Typo, I would go 155, particularly if you were going to keep one of the Mercury or Mountain Twin. You could ride the 158 with your specs, and at a more advanced level, I think it would be a good size for you, depending on how you ride, but for a faster progression, the 155 would be the better choice, IMO. If you were going to sell both the Mercury and MT and wanted to keep the Typo long term, and you weren’t that freestyle focused, then I would lean towards the 158.
4b) Between the Mercury and Mountain Twin, the Mountain Twin would be the more forgiving/easier to learn on. If it was the 2021 model MT, then even more so – the 2021 model has had a couple of changes which make it a little more forgiving/easier to ride, but even the 2020 model will be easier/more forgiving than the Mercury, IMO.
The MT feels like a 6/10 to me, definitely not a 7/10 as Jones rates it, at least not the feel I got from it. The Merucry feels just a little stiffer at 6.5/10, by my feel.
If you feel like your riding will become quite aggressive in the future. If you have an idea that you’re going to like, above all else, speed, hard carves etc, then I would probably sell the MT, get the Typo for now, and then progress onto the Mercury when you’re ready.
If you feel like your riding will be a little more playful/casual or a little more freestyle focused, then selling the Mercury would make the most sense. You could even sell the Mercury and MT and go with the Typo for now and think about your next board later.
But yeah, for right now I don’t think going with the Mercury right away would be the best move. So I would either go Mountain Twin or Typo for now. Preferably Typo, but Mountain Twin at a stretch.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate
About 3 years ago you recommended the Rossi Circuit to me. I had just started snowboarding and this recommendation really changed my life. The flex on the board made it really easy for me to pick up the basics and after 3 seasons I’m a lot more confident. So first off thank you!
One of the things you did mention about the Circuit was that it was only good for beginners. I’ve graduated from doing greens to doing easy-medium blues and as I’ve tried to do steeper slopes I’ve struggled with the Circuit. I think part of the problem is my technique but I wonder if it has something to do with how much flex the board has as well.
So, I wanted to get your thoughts on whether it would be worth upgrading or sticking it out until I had mastered all the blues.
Thanks a lot!
Abhi
Hi Abhi
Thanks for your message.
Certainly part of it could be technique and it’s definitely worth investing in a lesson if you can, to try to get your technique smoother. But the board will also have something to do with it. The Circuit is a very good beginner board, but it is limited to a certain point along your progression – and one of those things is stability at speed. Softer boards like the Circuit aren’t as stable at speed.
One thing you can try, if you can’t or don’t want to get a lesson, is to focus on riding across the slope rather than straight down it. This will allow you to be more in control.
But yeah certainly you will want to upgrade at some point, whether that’s now or if you want to hold off for one more season (might depend on how often you ride). But I would move up to a slightly stiffer/more advanced board at some stage, for sure.
Hope this helps
Thanks for your quick response Nate! Appreciate the tips. Are there any slightly stiffer boards you could recommend?
Hi Abhi
If you’re looking at sticking with something versatile, then going with an all-mountain board again would be a good way to go, IMO. So something like the Ride Wildlife, Rossignol Templar, YES Typo, Slash Brainstorm would all be good options, IMO.
Thanks Nate! I’ll take a look at those
You’re very welcome Abhi. Happy riding!
Hey Nate,
I just wanted to thank you for recognizing what an unsung hero the Rossi Templar is. I sincerely believe it is one of the best transition boards for that upper level beginner looking to broaden their abilities. I’m on the east coast, so we have a fair amount of “firm” snow to contend with and the Templar did very well without getting twitchy. Aside from being a directional board, it is one of my most recommended boards. (NS FunSlinger is my current favorite)
Thanks again, and think snow 😉
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, like you say, a really good transition board, particularly in hard/icy conditions. The Funslinger is a sick board for sure! The new Proto Slinger (which is replacing the Funslinger) is also awesome!
Hey Nate,
Really doesn’t help that the two boards I’m leaning towards rank as 1 and 2 on this list haha!
Although I think I’m leaning towards the typo purely because I prefer the 2021 graphic over the outterspace.
For the Typo, what size would you recommend? My shoe size is 9 and I weigh 83-85kg. I guess it’s between the 155 and 158.
Also any binding recommendations would be awesome!
Cheers
Hey Jono,
Yeah not a lot of help to separate them for sure! But both definitely great intermediate boards, IMO, so can’t make a bad choice between them.
For the Typo, I would go with the 158 for your specs. Best size for your specs for length, IMO, and the width is good for 9s too.
For bindings for the Typo, I would be looking at anything with around a 5/10 flex – which is also a good bet for an intermediate rider too. Ideal around 5, but 6 all good too. I would check out the following for some good options in that flex range:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
But let me know if you want further options outside those lists.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Those are both awesome lists thanks for those and the quick response! After having a read of each of those as well as googling prices/availability near me I’m starting to narrow down to something along the lines of (in no particular order):
Arbor Hemlock (too soft?)
Burton Cartel (too stiff?)
Rome Crux
Or if I should look to stretch the budget a little bit and look towards:
Burton Malavita
Flux DS
Tough trying to find that 5 flex without breaking the bank. I guess if you had to go a 4/10 or 6/10 flex which would you suggest? Riding style wise I’m looking for all mountain with buttering, jumping off of natural features as well as trying my hand on the occasion of a park lap to mix things up!
Cheers bud!
Hi Jono
I would say Hemlock a little too soft. I would probably lean more towards 6/10 to match with the typo vs 4/10, but that said, going softer can be nice for the likes of hitting boxes/rails etc in the park and can make things easier for learning smaller jumps. But if I had to choose, I’d say to lean more towards that 6/10 vs 4/10.
So that said, I would be leaning more towards Cartel vs Hemlock.
I don’t currently test Rome gear, so I couldn’t really say about the Crux. Looks like they rate it 7/10 flex, but I don’t find the flex ratings always match with the flex feel – but not sure with Rome, unfortunately.
Hey Nate, just an update:
After lots more reading today I think I’m tossing up between Union Contact Pro and the Burton Genesis. I’ve ruled out the Flux DS because of the shock absorption.
I’d probably grab the genesis but my one concern if the RE: Flex mounting system, I’m not sure if I’ll be able to get a centered stance with the 5mm setback on the Typo… or if I would even notice it? Guess demo’s I’ve ridden have always been centered! Keen to hear your thoughts.
Cheer
Hi Jono
I wouldn’t be too concerned about getting that perfect centering on the Typo. It’s been designed with a 5mm setback, so that’s where I would ride it. And a 5mm setback is super subtle. I don’t think you would really notice it. I’d say the only time you’d notice it is in powder. Otherwise, it’s really subtle so, I would just ride it with the setback stance it’s designed with, personally.
I think the Contact Pro would work, but it’s just on that softer side, IMO. Definitely doable but I would probably lean more towards the stiffer side of 5/10, rather than softer side (as per my other reply). I’d probably weigh up between the Strata and the Genesis personally, based on what you’re describing, but certainly I understand that cost comes into it too. The Union Force is another option, but since you want to have good butterability, that’s where I would lean more to the Strata over the Force (similar flex).
Hey Nate!
Thanks for all your tips and patience! Ended up pulling the trigger on the Union Stratas. Looking forward to them coming, learning how to setup bindings and then hitting the slopes in a couple of weeks when things open up!
Thanks again!
Cheers
You’re very welcome Jono. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate. I’m a big fan and truly appreciate all you do for the snowboarding community. Have a question for you, if you don’t mind. I’m an intermediate rider level 5-6, my current board is a Burton Custom camber. I love it but now I’m thinking about adding a new board to the family. What I miss on the Custom is more flex which would allow me to try new tricks, I am also trying to evolve with butters but I am having a hard time with the Custom. So I’m thinking about a park oriented board but that could also perform well in the mountain. After some research I’m thinking about the new Burton Kilroy 3D – which would allow me to stay within the Burton family and the EST system – or the Ride TwinPig. Would love to hear your thoughts. All the best and thank you !
Hi Joe
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden the Kilroy 3D or the TwinPig but I imagine both would be more buttery/softer than the Custom, based on specs. I rode the Kilroy Process 2019 (which is now the Kilroy Twin) which I didn’t find to be overly buttery, but the Kilroy 3D is supposed to be softer and more buttery. But can’t give any first hand experience on those boards, unfortunately.
You could check out the following for some other options (check the score breakdowns for how I found them for different factors):
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I just found this site and it has been so helpful! I have a 14 year old son that just started high school and has joined the ski/board club. They will be going to our local resort every Friday night throughout the winter so I thought it might be time for him to get his own board/equipment. I would call him an advanced beginner to intermediate. We did the kids mountain club at one of our local slopes and his card went to level 6 and he has all the boxes checked. We were lucky and the last 3 times he went, he was the only kid signed up so he basically had a private instructor to himself the entire day. He was going down single black diamonds all day!
He will probably want to start spending time in the park but also ride trails (piste?). So, I’m considering the Yes Libre board but I’m still not sure on size. Would the 154 work for him? Also based on his specs (5′ 10″/men’s size 11 shoe/~145-150 lbs) do you think he would need a wide or mid-wide board? Seems like those are harder to find. Thanks for any advice you can offer…your lists are super helpful!
Kristin
Hi Kristin
Thanks for your message.
Based on what you’re describing, I think something like the YES Libre would be a great option.
Length-wise, I think the 154 would be your sons best option. Width-wise, it’s a little tricky. With size 11s, it often means going wide, but not always. It often depends on the particular board. In the case of the Libre, it is wider than looks, if you’re just looking at waist width. It’s wider at the inserts (where the feet ultimately go) than average compared to the waist width. I rode the 158, which is 252mm at the waist but 266mm at the inserts. The 154 is likely to be around 263mm at the inserts. That’s on the narrow side for 11s. A little narrower than I would usually recommend for 11s. If he was on the 158, then I think he would probably get away with it. I know it doesn’t sound like much difference but it can make all the difference between boot drag or not. And even on the 158, it’s on the narrower side. I think even on the 154 he’d probably get away with it for a while, but once he starts riding higher on the edges, if he’s not already, that’s when you can run into problems.
The 156W would be a safer bet. And assuming he’s still growing, it’s something that could stay with him for a good while longer. It will be a slightly steeper learning curve, but doable.
The Burton Custom Flying V comes in a 154W, though that might be out of the price range.
The Lib Tech Skate Banana (more freestyle/park oriented than the Libre/Custom Flying V) comes in a 153W. A little cheaper than the Custom Flying V but still a good bit more than the Libre, which is a great price.
The GNU Money comes in a 154W and is really reasonably priced (might even be cheaper than the Libre), so that’s worth looking at too.
Those are the only ones I can think of at the moment that come in a wider size with that shorter length. Certainly not saying not to go Libre though, just wanted to give you some other suitable options. I don’t think there’s an ideal size for the Libre for right now, but I do think the 156W will become a really good size for him fairly soon.
Hope that helps with your decision (and hopefully wasn’t too much info!)
Thanks so much Nate! This helps me a LOT and gives me more options to consider. I appreciate all the technical info as I am a ‘research then buy’ kind of person. Thanks again!!
You’re very welcome Kristin.
Research then buy, is a good way to be!
Hi Nate,
My 19 year old son would like to start snowboarding when we move to Utah this winter. Although he is a beginner, he is very athletic and every sport he tries he picks up very quickly. As a result I was thinking of going with one of your more intermediate recommendation so it will last a bit longer. Would you be able to help me with sizing?. He is 5’10”, between 155-160 and wears a size 12 US. Thanks for your help!
Hi Christyne
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise for those specs, as a beginner, I would usually say around 153 to 155 (up to 158 as a more advanced rider). But since I’m guessing your son is likely to add some weight in the coming years? And since it sounds like he’s likely to progress quickly and is athletic, then the higher end of that is probably a good idea. I wouldn’t go too long, as you don’t necessarily want to make things too difficult, but all things considered, something in the 155-157 range might be sensible.
With a US12, going for a wide board is highly recommended. 260mm in terms of waist width at the least.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much Nate!!
You’re very welcome Christyne. Thanks for visiting the site and I hope your son has a great time in his first season this winter!
Dear Nate,
Thank you for the super useful list! Would be great if I can get some advice from you. I am an advanced beginner moving towards intermediate. I live in norther China where ski resorts mostly have artificial snow (can get hard and icy every now and then), but I also travel to Hokkaido for powder once a year. I am getting my first board and am pretty set on getting the OSL given it’s reasonable price, versatility as an all mountain freestyle, medium flex and hybrid camber profile. Then I noticed your comments on it not being so good on icy snow and powder. At my current level, I don’t do much park stuff and mostly stick to the groomers/tree line to improve my riding. Would you still recommend getting the OSL?
Regarding size, I am 5’7″, 60kg and a size 9.5 boot, so I believe a 152 would suffice? Recommendation on bindings would also be great. Thanks again!
Hi Ivan
Thanks for your message.
If you’re in hard/icy conditions a lot, then you might want to pick something else. But if it’s only every now and then, I wouldn’t be too worried. You can do certain things as well to help with edge hold in icy conditions. a. make sure you keep your edges sharpened and 2. try widening your stance on icy days – I find a wider stance can help when it’s really icy.
Length-wise, I would say the 150 is the best bet for you specs. The only thing would be the width (on either the 152 or 150, which are both similar widths). With 9.5s it’s pushing it being too narrow. If you ride with +15/-15 binding angles or similar, then I think you’ll probably fine – but with a straighter back foot it might be risking boot drag – unless you have low profile boots.
Check out the following for some great binding options that would match well with the OSL.
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
If those are out of your price range, also consider the Union Force or Burton Mission, which are a bit cheaper but still high quality. Or if you wanted to go really cheap the Union STR are still good bindings but really reasonably priced.
Hope this helps with your decision
Dear Nate,
Thank you for the quick reply and advice! We have icy conditions only every now and then, seems like the OSL is still a good option then. I have a pair of Thirty-Two STW BOA US size 9.5 boots, don’t know if that helps with the 150/152 being too narrow.
And also thanks for the top 5 bindings list. I’ve heard a lot of good stuff about the Union Strata, so will probably give it a try.
Cheers,
Ivan
Hi Ivan
I have found 32 boots to be pretty much in the middle when it comes to being low profile. That is, they’re not super low profile but they don’t have a long profile either. You’ll probably get away with it, so long as you don’t ride with too straight a back foot.
Only thing with the Strata is that they have a long footbed and with 9.5s you’d need to go medium. I measured the medium footbed at 25.8cm. With the 150 OSL likely being around 25.1cm at the inserts, my concern would be that there would be a bit too much binding overhang. You might get away with it, but that would be my only concern with going Strata. I would say you’d be fine with most mediums, but this is one of the longest mediums that I’ve measured.
Hi Nate,
Got it. One last question, do you think upsizing to 154 is another option? Thanks
Regards,
Ivan
Hi Ivan
IMO, the 154 is a little too long for you. I would go 150 over 152 even. You could stretch to 152, but 154 is getting a little too long to be ideal for your specs, IMO.
Hi Nate. Very interesting ranking! Can I take advantage of your knowledge? I am an intermediate rider (doing easy blacks in Canada/US, looking forward to more difficult tracks). I do not plan to do freestlyling, just riding the commercial mountain resorts like Breck, Whistler, Park City, Snowmass, Vail… I am 1.70m (that’s like 5’7 I think) and around 60kg (133lbs), boot size 9.5 – 10.0 US. I snowboard about 5-7 days a year, and I am planning to buy the Burton Step-Up Bindings with the Photon Boots for next season because I hate the strapping on process. Do you recommend one of the boards you list here for me or one form another of your lists? I sometimes struggle with my edges and end up on the floor after catching, especially when I am at the bottom of the mountain / icy conditions.
Thanks a lot!
Hi Jonathan
Thanks for your message.
I would say, based on what you’re describing that an all-mountain board would suit you best.
If you’re a solid intermediate rider, then you could look at something from this list, like the Rossignol Templar or Never Summer Snowtrooper or YES Typo. But you could also look at the following.
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
You can check out which ones in that list that are best for icy conditions (they are tagged as “Hard/Icy”). But some that aren’t tagged with