Below we have carefully selected our Top 5 Women's All-Mountain Freestyle snowboards for 2022-2023.
As is tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com the each board has been given a rating out of 100.
Of the 24 different all-mountain-freestyle boards rated:
OK so here’s the top 5!
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5
Board: Niche Nightshade
- CA
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 87.6/100
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
Starting off the list at #5, we have the Niche Nightshade.
The Nightshade is the most aggressive in this list (along with the Talent Scout at #2), and if I had a separate women's aggressive all-mountain-freestyle list that's where I would put this board. It's mostly camber, but just a little more forgiving than traditional camber.
But more importantly this board rips! It's awesome for carving and at speed, but then when you hit the jump line in the park or natural hits, it's even better there.
Not really one for powder and less suitable for jibbing than some others on this list, but apart from that it's a versatile and explosive, aggressive all-mountain-freestyle deck.
Check out the video below for more on the Nightshade
Score Breakdown for the Nightshade
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TREES/BUMPS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.6/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #4
Board: Lib Tech No.43
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 88.2/100
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
In at #4 we have the Lib Tech No.43.
The No.43 is a great freestyle/park board, but also does well on the rest of the mountain - like a good all-mountain-freestyle board should.
A particularly good option if you often ride in hard/icy conditions and great if you like to also ride the pipe.
Check out the video below for more on the Lib Tech No.43
Score Breakdown for the No.43
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 6/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TREES/BUMPS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.2/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #3
Board: Never Summer Women’s Proto Synthesis
- CA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 88.8/100
At #3, we have the Women’s Proto Synthesis by Never Summer.
Ever so slightly on the aggressive side of the playful/aggressive scale - but very close to right in the middle, the Proto Synthesis thrives when carving and can even bomb pretty well.
But when you get to side hits and jumps in the park, it really comes into its own, whether you want to just straight air it or throw down some rotations.
Just a really good all-round resort board that can treat the mountain like a park or treat the mountain like a mountain.
Check out the video below for more on the Proto Synthesis
Score Breakdown for the Women's Proto Synthesis
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TREES/BUMPS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.8/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #2
Board: Burton Talent Scout
- CA
- UK/EU
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 89.3/100
Coming at #2, we have Burton's Talent Scout.
The most aggressive on this list, the Talent Scout features a traditional camber profile. But because it's not overly stiff, it's not quite as demanding as other more aggressive boards. It gives it enough forgiveness that it's not too fatiguing a ride.
But when you want to rip carves or bomb down the slope, it's got you covered.
And this thing is a beast when it comes to jumps and side-hits. Poppy, explosive super stable on approach and stomps landings.
Check out the video below for more on the Talent Scout
Score Breakdown for the Talent Scout
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 5.0 | 20/20 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERS | 3.0 | 6/10 |
JIBBING | 2.0 | 2/5 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TREES/BUMPS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.3/100 |
WOMEN'S ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #1
Board: GNU Ladies Choice
- CA
- UK
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 91.0/100
- HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
And finally, in the #1 spot, we have the GNU Ladies Choice.
With the Proto Synthesis not retaining the asymmetry that it's predecessor (the Proto Type Two) had, the Ladies Choice is now the only board on this list to feature asymmetry, which can really help you to lock in those heel side carves/turns - and makes switch riding feel really natural.
A great option for more advanced park riders or intermediate and up all-mountain-freestyle riders. This board excels for jumps, spins and riding switch, but outside of that it's consistent across all categories for a nice versatile and super fun ride.
Check out the video below for more on the GNU Ladies Choice
Score Breakdown for the Ladies Choice
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
TURNS/SLASHING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
CRUD/CHUNDER | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TREES/BUMPS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
POWDER | 3.0 | 3/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.0/100 |
Over to You
Thanks for reading and I hope this list has help you to choose the perfect all-mountain freestyle snowboard for you.
As you can see above each board on the list is has different strengths and weaknesses, so hopefully one of them suits your style perfectly. Check out the links under each board for more info and for their current price.
Hi Nate!
Love these articles. I’m currently on a Dream Weaver and am absolutely loving it. This season I’m progressing into all mountain freestyle and am finding the Jones board to be too stiff. I’d love to be able to treat the whole mountain like a park with ground tricks, butters, and side hits.
I’m looking at the Capita paradise and Niche Minx. Which would you recommend?
5’4”
135 lb
Size 7
Hi Hannah
Thanks for your message.
Both should give you a more freestyle feel vs the Dream Weaver and both should feel softer, flex-wise. I would be leaning towards the Minx, because I think it’s the better compliment. It offers a bigger contrast and would make the better partner to your Dream Weaver, IMO.
Size-wise, I would be leaning towards the 143. I would put your “typical all-mountain length” closer to 147, but with a more freestyle leaning board like the Minx I would size down. And makes sense to size shorter than your more all-mountain freeride board in the Dream Weaver. Not sure what size Dream Weaver you have, but just based on specs and what you want to do with the board, I’d be leaning 143. If you’re riding a 142 Dream Weaver and you want your all-mountain-freestyle board to be really playful (at the sacrifice of stability at speed), then the 140 is also possible.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate! Such great info. Would love your input on what you think might be a good 2nd board for me!
I’m 5’2 and 140#, I’d say an intermediate 5/6. I currently ride a Korua Cafe Racer 144, with small Burton Step-On bindings w/DC Lotus Step-On boots size 5.
I enjoy cruising groomers, blues and blue blacks, working on progressing my carving ability and speed. I don’t go very fast, 25mph has been my max. I’d like to get faster, but my feat gets the best of me. I think my Cafe Racer is great for powder and working on carving, but I think I also may need a twin in my quiver. I would like to get more playful and try buttering, switch, a couple little hops here and there, and side hits. Maybe some tree runs. Also want to get more comfortable with getting to speed, and with steeper runs. I mostly ride Mammoth every month or so, a day trip to Bear every now and then, and usually try for at least 1 out of state trip per season. This year was Winter Park, last year was Banff.
Open to anything, but Libtech, Gnu, or Roxy preferred!
Thanks so much and can’t wait to see your recs and hear your feedback!
Also looking at the Nitro Optisym in either 138 or 142. Would this be a good fit? I’m reading that it’s good for progressing carves and butters!
Hi Sandy
Thanks for your message.
I think the Optisym could work for what you’re describing. I would be leaning 142, since you still want to be able to improve riding at speed, so you’ll still want that stability at speed. I would put your “typical all-mountain length” at around 147 for your height/weight specs. However, because of your boot size, I’d be looking more in the 141-144 range.
From Lib/GNU, I think the Lib Tech No.43 143, Lib Tech Ryme 141 or 144, GNU Ladies Choice or Pro Choice 142.5 would all be good bets. And I’d throw in the YES Rival 144 in there too (or you could go 140 if you wanted to err shorter).
Hope this helps
Hey Nate!
Thanks so much for creating this website and writing reviews—it’s genuinely really helpful. I was wondering if you could help and give me some advice as it’s currently the end of the season (sale!!) and I’d like to upgrade my board.
I’d say I’m an intermediate-advanced rider. I’m currently riding the Rossignol Frenemy 147cm, and I love it. However, I’ve started getting into park lately, and I’m looking for a board that can pop a bit more and ride better in the park. I ride switch a lot, and I still want to be able to carve on the mountain, though. Since I’m from Ontario, stability is a must, but there’s no powder, so there’s nothing to worry about that.
I’m 5’3, 110 lbs, and my boots are size 7. I’ve been doing some research, and I really like the Ride Saturday from what I’ve seen, but I don’t know if it’ll hold up well in the icy conditions of Ontario. What are your thoughts?
I’m also considering some of the boards below:
GNU Gloss
GNU Ladies Choice
Capita paradise
Capita Birds Of A Feather
LibTech No.43
If you have any sizing or other board recommendations, please let me know. Also, should I go for a stiffer or softer binding?
Thank you so much!
Hi Elaine
Thanks for your message.
My experience of Ride boards to date is that they’re not bad in icy conditions, but not amazing either. Same would apply to the Paradise & Bird’s of a Feather.
The Gloss is something that’s not going to be great for you for the carving side of things, so that’s what I’d be most weary of on that one – and also not overly stable feeling.
The Ladies Choice and No.43 would both work well for what you’re describing, IMO.
Given you’re not concerned about powder performance, you could also add the GNU Pro Choice to that list. The Niche Nightshade would also be a good bit as a good icy conditions board that’s freestyle leaning but still good on a carve. The Talent Scout and Proto Synthesis also fit that bill. Though not quite as good in icy conditions as the Pro Choice/Nightshade, still decent in those conditions. These 4 are all a little more on the aggressive side, particularly the Talent Scout and Nightshade, but if you’re a competent rider they are worth a look. A bit more challenging for boxes/rails, if you were going to be doing those.
The YES Rival is another that comes to mind that’s really good in icy conditions and would tick all your boxes, IMO.
But one important thing – and will be partially the reason that you find the Frenemy lacking in pop (though it’s not a super poppy board to start with either), is sizing. IMO the 147 Frenemy is too big for your specs. I would put your “standard all-mountain length” at more like 142. Given you’re riding more park, you could even look to size down a bit from that. However, given you’re used to a 147 and given you still want good stability, something around 142 is probably a good bet. In any case I would size down a little from your current 147.
In terms of bindings, I would be looking at something mid-flexing. Something in that 5/10 to 6/10 range would be a good match to all the boards we’ve looked at (if you were going to go Gloss you might want to go softer than 6 though, but I don’t think that board is as suitable as the others). And a good match to the style you’re looking at. Going too stiff would not only not match the boards as well (could make them feel twitchy) but also make it harder for some of the more park/freestyle stuff you’re looking to do. Too soft and you’re not going to be able to drive those boards properly and will affect your carving and stability. Some good options in that 5/10 to 6/10 flex range below:
>>Our Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’ve been reading a lot of your reviews and responses to others and I’d really appreciate your advice! Thank you in advance 🙂
I’m 5’4 130lbs size 6 boots
I’ve been riding a 145cm 5150 Amethyst (2008 camber board) for a loooooong time and I’m finally ready to replace it.
I would call myself an intermediate rider. I mostly ride groomers in Ontario. I tend to bomb hills and carve 70% of the time. The other 30% I like to hit side features, moguls, and the odd box/jumps (nothing crazy but I would like to start learning some tricks). Lately the freestyle riding has been grabbing more of my attention but can’t lose sight of the fact that I need stability due to where I am riding and the conditions. There is no powder to be found here so that’s not important for my board.
I’ve been doing a lot of research and thought I finally narrowed my search down to the Salomon rumble fish 148 or the Nitro Fate 147, but then my step dad told me he thinks those boards are too advanced for me. So now I’m back to my original list but am open to other suggestions and sizes as I know my feet are quite small for my weight and that’s not something I had thought of.
Oh I should mention I want to stick with camber or camber hybrid (rocker only at nose and tail. None between the feet).
Capita paradise
CAPiTA birds of a feather
Yes Hello
Jones Twin sister
K2 Lime Lite
Salomon Pillow Talk
Thank you so much for your time!
Hi Kristian
Thanks for your message.
I think the Pillow Talk would be fine for you to ride, but given the freestyle element you want in your board, I think it’s too directional/freeride for what you’re describing, so that’s, IMO, an easy one to cross off the list.
The K2 Lime Lite would certainly be suitable for the freestyle stuff your trying to do, but would lack the stability you’re seeking for bombing/carving.
The other 4 on your list are suitable, IMO, but with the Hello and Twin Sister being better in hard/icy conditions, IMO. Given your in Ontario, I’m guessing you get icy conditions fairly often?
Between the Twin Sister and Hello – the Twin Sister will give you more stability at speed and the Hello will be easier for progressing with freestyle – but the Twin Sister can certainly be used for park/freestyle and the Hello isn’t terrible at speed. Another option you could add is the Salomon Gypsy.
Size-wise, I would put you roughly on 146 as your “standard all-mountain” size which assumes a relatively advanced level. With your boot size, going a little shorter than that is a good idea.
For the boards discussed, I would be looking at:
– Twin Sister: 143 (it’s wide for your boot size, but sizing down a bit to 143, makes that a good size for your specs overall, IMO)
– Hello: 146 is the shortest size this comes in, so the only option – because it’s also wide for your boots, IMO, it’s on the bigger side for you, but doable
– Salomon Gypsy: 143 (again on the wider side for your boot size, so sizing down a little makes sense, IMO)
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
LOVE your posts! Your thoughtful reviews and responses are SO APPRECIATED! Awesome site. Thank you for being a resource to us all.
I’m hoping you could give me your opinion as I’ve been revisiting this site and, like everyone, I’m caught in an indecisive pickle.
5’6″-5’7″ 150-160lb female, size 9 Ride Hera boots, 25Y/O looking to buy my second-ever new board+binding set up.
I exclusively ride in New England (ice coast) and I learned about 4-5 years ago. I’m just looking to cruise down in a resort/groomer setting and keep up with my friends. I’d say I’m an advanced beginner and IDT I’ll ever make it to the park. I’ve gone about 10-20 days per year. Since I learned late in life I lack confidence. My goals are to work on confidence at higher speeds and start practicing switch so I’ll be an all-around better rider.
I currently ride a size 149 Burton Deja Vu Flying V and IMO it’s heavy and squirly on ice. Because of this I’m looking for a camber or hybrid camber since that will be the opposite of the current profile I have. Also, despite my height and weight I once had an instructor say 149 looked big on me (you wouldn’t guess my weight by looking at me–I’m pretty fit).
I’m about to pull the trigger on the 2022 Capita Paradise based on the reviews–what do you think?
Should I open my search to flat top or rocker to flat profiles? And, do you also think I could go up or down in size, or stick to 149 since I’m familiar with that size?
I feel like the deja vu flying v was such a specific type of board, I’m afraid of the learning curve with a new style. Thank you in advance for any help you may be able to give!
Hi Susie
I think at this stage, given your goals and what you’re describing, that a bit of camber in there is a good idea – and it will also help with edge hold in hard/icy conditions. The Flying V profile, in my experience is very loose feeling in hard/icy conditions, so I’m not surprised you were feeling that.
In terms of size, I think you could go up to something more like 151/152, if you were a more advanced rider. However, as an advanced beginner, I would take some size off that, so sticking to around 149 is a good idea, IMO. Given that your fit, only helps you to ride a bigger board, so I don’t think sizing down makes sense, but I also think that you don’t need to go any bigger.
The Paradise is certainly an option – in the 149, IMO – and the width of that should be fine. Really good board for your level. It’s going to be better in icy conditions than the Deja Vu Flying V, IMO, but there are other options that are better in ice, if you were open to something else. The Paradise is also really light – and it sounds like you’re looking for something lighter?
Some other options, I’d look at include:
– YES Hello 149 (again really good for your level and progressing from where you are, but better in icy conditions, IMO)
– YES Emoticon 149 (ditto the Hello, just in a little more freestyle oriented package and a little softer flexing. You don’t have to ride park with it, but you can – the Hello more all-mountain so probably better suited, but this is still an option and also a rather light board)
– Rossignol Airis, Salomon Gypsy and Salomon Wonder would all work too, IMO
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
I have kinda the same question as Nora. I’m looking for all mountain board, true twin ( I ride in switch). And I can’t decide what length I should choose. I’m 5’2, 150-160 lbs and boot size 7 I guess (37 European).
I was thinking about Gnu Gloss, but I found it 144 only – is it too short for me? I consider myself to be a high end beginner:) I had Ride Rapture before.
Other option is Capita Paradise, but I can’t decide 145 or 147?
And what you can say about Santa Cruz Gleam Dot?
Or maybe you’ll recommend other boards, the only thing is I can’t spend too much on the gear at the moment, so I’m looking for the perfect match and a good price:)
Thank you!
Hi Maryna
Thanks for your message.
I think the 144 is just that little bit too short. Not too far off, but ideally a little bigger. I’d say 146/147 as a high end beginner. The Paradise (147 would be your best bet, IM) would be a good option.
I’ve never tested Santa Cruz snowboards and don’t know much about them. A quick look at the specs, it looks like it would be suitable, but can’t say for sure.
The YES Emoticon (146) would also be a good option – and not too expensive, especially if you can find it in a past season model.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much Nate!
Have a great season!🤘
Thank you Nate, I wanted to ask another question. I’ve found K2 Contour boots. As I understood they are from past seasons. Do you think it’s a good idea to buy them or better check smth from season 21/22?
I thought about Vans Luna Ventana Pro, DC LOTUS BOA. Or VANS MARY RAND FERRA PRO.
And about bindings, I’ve found such options:
Burton Lexa EST 2020,
Flux GS 2021
or maybe K2 Hue.
Which do you think are going to be a good combo?:)
Hi Maryna
Definitely no problem going with past season boots – and you can often find a good deal. So long as the boots are a good match for your riding style, fit you well and are a good match for the board, then it’s a good way to go. But the K2 Contour is quite a stiff boot and wouldn’t match the boards you’re looking at, IMO – and too stiff for your level as well, IMO. If you can find a softer flexing boot in past season, then go for it. I would be looking at something around 4/10 to 6/10 flex, depending on the board you went with. So the Lotus, Luna Ventana Pro and Ferra Pro (which was essentially replaced by the Luna Ventana Pro) should all work fine.
For bindings, the Flux GS and K2 Hue would be good bets for the boards you’re looking at, IMO. The Lexa EST won’t be compatible for the boards you’re looking at. If you can find the Lexa in the “Re:Flex” version, then it will work. Burton have two versions of bindings – “EST” and “Re:Flex”. Their EST bindings are only compatible with boards that use the Channel mounting system (which is pretty much just Burton and Endeavor). Their Re:Flex bindings mount to basically every snowboard. But yeah, unless you’re getting a board with the Channel, you won’t want to go for an EST binding.
Hi Nate – i need your opinion. I consider myself an advanced boarder who loves to do the trees and moguls. I mostly do black or double black. I am not a terrain park fan. I have had the Ride Rapture board for many years and have loved it. My current board cracked so I purchased the Capita blended radial true twin flex 5. I hard a time getting the Board to respond. I see you ranked the rapture as a beginner board. What other board would you recommend for me based on my riding style?
Hi Louise
Thanks for your message.
So it sounds like you have the Birds of a Feather (BOAF). Could you let me know the size of your BOAF? And also the size that your Rapture was. Sizing can play a big part too, but it’s not likely to be fully that.
A softer board like the Rapture is often easier to get to respond, particularly at slower speeds, but there are of course other factors as well.
Given that you’re doing a lot of trees and moguls, then I wouldn’t go too for anything too stiff, but around 5/10 to 6/10 flex should still be OK, depending on your weight. BOAF, in my opinion and from Jade who tested it, is more like 6/10, rather than 5/10, in reality. Things other than flex and size certainly affect how easily the board responds.
Also, if you’re not really riding switch or doing anything freestyle, then you don’t need to, and probably shouldn’t go for a twin – unless you have a preference for that twin feel. But if you can clarify if no park also means no freestyle/switch riding, that would be great. We could definitely look at more directional boards that might be suitable.
Also for sizing and deciding on an appropriate flex, I would be happy to give my opinion on that, because that’s also really important, particularly when you’re talking about wanting quick edge-to-edge response in tress and moguls. I would just need your height, weight and boot size.
So yeah, if you could provide that extra info, I can find what I think would be the best choices for you.
To recap, if you can provide:
– BOAF and Rapture size
– Whether you doing any freestyle (e.g. side hits, butter tricks etc) or switch outside the terrain park
– Height, weight and boot size specs
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate.
I’m an advanced-expert rider with 30 years’ experience looking for an all mountain board. I ride mostly free ride, but like the option of doing some freestyle (though rarely in the park since getting older). I’m looking for something that carves well, is fast edge to edge, feels stable bombing at high speeds and can handle quick turns through moguls and trees. But I also ride with my 2 kids who are beginner skiers, so I’d like a board that can Handle going slow and being playful when I’m hanging on blue cruiser trails with them.
I ride on the east coast, so edge hold in ice is a must . If the board can do powder too, great, but not essential. I don’t ride switch often but like to have the option for landing or setting up a jump.
I’m looking at the Hel Yes, the NS proto synthesis, the GNU ladies choice, the Jones dream catcher. Any favorites among those or other suggestions? Size recommendations?
I’m 5’3, 115 lbs size 8 women’s boot.
Lastly my current board is a 2003 k2 Luna 139- stances were narrower back then (and boards were hella short). I want something longer but dont want my stance to get crazy wide, as my legs are really short.
Thanks,
Sarah
Hi Sarah
Thanks for your message.
They would all do the job for what you’re asking but I would be leaning either Hel Yes or Dream Catcher, just because they do give you that better powder performance. Not as good for switch (the Hel Yes a little better in that respect than the Dream Catcher) but still work for riding/setting up/landing switch. The Ladies Choice, IMO, is the most playful of the 4 and the best for freestyle stuff, but not as good in terms of bombing at higher speeds. Proto Synthesis and Dream Catcher not quite as good in icy conditions as the Hel Yes and Ladies Choice, IMO, but still not bad – like 4/5 instead of 5/5 kind of thing. So, I think you’d be OK on any of them in terms of hard/icy conditions.
Between the Hel Yes and the Dream Catcher – the Dream Catcher is a little more directional, so it’s more all-mountain bordering on freeride. The Hel Yes is kind of right in the middle between freeride and freestyle.
None of them are so demanding that it would make cruising slow a chore either.
Size-wise, I’d be looking at around 143 for your specs and what you’re describing. Unfortunately the Hel Yes’ smallest size is 146 (wish they’d make a 142 or 143 or something for that board!). For the other options, I’d be looking at:
– DC: 145 – this is a board that rides short for it’s size, so you can go a little longer with it. 142 is an option, but the 145 is really the equivalent of a typical 142/143
– PS: 142
– Ladies Choice: 142.5
The other option I’d throw out there is the Jones Mountain Twin. Also a very good match for what you’re describing, IMO – the 143 would be a great size for you as well, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Im looking for a new all mountain snowbord and bindings for myself and cant make up my mind which ones to get. I had an old Raven snowboard for 5 years but as I want to advance I was looking at GNU / Lib Tech, Capita (maybe other brands?). I would say I am on intermediate level. Want to train jibbing once in a while and also want a snowboard which perform nice in icy conditions in my country. Probably, most of the time i spend on piste and twice a year visit mountains where love to spend time in powder.
I know thats probably a lot to ask from one snowboard but maybe there is a choice of one solid board which will perform good everywhere. Im 173 cm, weight 53 kg, boot size 39.
Thank you in advance!
Hi Nora
Thanks for your message.
I think the following will suit what you’re describing. Taking into account icy conditions and a board that is going to be versatile and suitable to an intermediate level:
– YES Hello 146
– GNU Ladies Choice (not quite as good in powder, but decent and ticks all the other boxes) 145.5
– GNU Velvet (dito Ladies Choice, in terms of powder)
– Lib Tech No.43 143 (though even less in terms of powder as the above)
– Lib Tech Cortado 145 (good for powder, but less for jibbing than others in this list, IMO)
– Arbor Swoon Rocker 144
– Jones Dream Catcher 145 (though less so for jibbing)
– Jones Twin Sister 143 or 146
– Never Summer Infinity 145
– Rossignol Frenemy 144
– Salomon Wonder 144
– Capita Paradise 145 (though not as good in icy conditions, IMO)
Some there not from the brands you mentioned, but just in case you have access to any of those brands as well.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thank you so much!!! That will help a lot!
You’re very welcome Nora. Hope you have an awesome season!
Hi Nate.
Amazing how much you are helping us. Thank you.
Today, reading many of your articles I have begun to learn all the styles of handling, shapes of the tables, measurements, etc.
I am a Man. I’m 1.70 meters. weight 50 Kgs. Standing size 43 EU = 10 US.
Beginner / Intermediate level. Down red tracks with some drops. turn, brake nailing sides and make some 180º turn at low speed.
I handle myself “well” with the SkateBoard, Street Style, little Ollies and little else.
Skiing/Snowboarding approximately 2-5 days a year. And grateful because everything costs a lot of money.
So far I have only used rental boards at the foot of the track, which I do not know absolutely what sizes (surely 1’60 m) wide (surely >26 cms that my foot measures) shapes (surely totally flat) type of fixings, etc.
Handling these boards has always seemed to me to carry a ship too heavy between my feet.
I have my own SnowBoard boots for years, unknown brand and model.
I was still wondering if it’s worth buying my first snowboard. But now seeing that there can be so much difference between a board “to my measure” and shapes, I have convinced myself that if I really want to evolve in my handling on the SnowBoard, Buying my own board is the step I need.
My driving style is, pretends to be. … First, about Red Tracks, learn to Carvear well and Brake skidding when required. Next, make butters. + small jumps. Driving through bumpy terrain, ….
If I manage to learn this well, I will be more than satisfied.
My next step would be. Or FreeStyle, but I doubt very much that on rails, pits, etc.
Or FreeRide but more with FreeStyle ideas.
I like to enjoy mastering my board, turns, 180, 360, butters, jumps etc.
I’m not particularly attracted to speed or a board stuck to the ground.
Type of snow. The most accustomed, on red tracks in Andorra. = Hard snow ?.
Although of course the most pleasant thing is the soft snow.
Studying I have begun to draw my conclusions, I hope they are correct, I do not know.
Size, ( 1’70 meters – 15% height according to weight – 5 cms height per beginner level and driving style ) = 142 approx.
What do you think?
Flexibility, Low. 2 or 3 out of 10. But most tables are Medium, 5/10 approx.
Forms. Nose – Camber – Rocker in the center – Camber – Tail. = Hybrid Rocker.
To have handling and flexibility of movements at the same time as a little stability.
I am left in doubt if it would be more successful for me,
Forms. Nose – Rocker – Camber in the center – Rocker – Tail. = Hybrid Camber.
What do you think?
Although I am a man, I was starting to opt for the GNU Ladies Choice chart.
Then two doubts appear to me and that’s when I decide to go and consult you.
Although I am a man, I was starting to opt for the GNU Ladies Choice chart.
Then two doubts appear to me and that’s when I decide to go and consult you.
1. GNU Ladies Choice 2021 0 2022, Height of 142 cms, have a waist width of 23 cms approx and a width of Nose and Tail of 27 cm approx.
My foot is already 26 cms. 0 Size 43.
Although I choose the same board with a length of 155 cm (I think too long for me), it is still narrow in width.
2. The boards for All-Mountain Man + FreeStyle that I have been looking for, do not have sizes less than 1.51 cms long. That’s why I started getting to know and searched on boards for girls.
Maybe you know how to recommend something more suitable for me.
3. GNU Ladies Choice 2021 is,
Nose – Camber – Rocker in the center – Camber – Tail. = Hybrid Rocker.
Symmetrical in Nose and Tail.
GNU Ladies Choice 2022 is,
Nose – Camber – Rocker in the center – Camber – Tail. = Hybrid Rocker.
Asymmetrical in Nose and Tail.
Asymmetrical in the right-left curvatures.
Asymmetrical in Canber. The front Camber is softer versus the rear camber is more radical.
GNU explains that these asymmetries help facilitate turns and help to operate Switch (= Switch).
But I try and I can’t imagine because these asymmetries can help me.
Is it the force that the driver applies with the front leg versus the rear leg and/or the force, grip, balance, etc. that the driver applies when turning to one side or the other ???.
If the table is asymmetrical, depending on whether I am Goofy or REGULAR, should I be able to buy the table with the symmetry on one side or the other ????. In my mind I imagine it as Yes, it should.
In my mind I prefer a symmetrical table.
Maybe you can explain it to me better.
I hope to better understand all these doubts after your answers. Thanks a lot.
Hi Julio
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think the translation was perfect, but I think I understand most of what you’re saying.
Size-wise, as a high-end beginner/low intermediate, I think around 142-144 is a good size range to look at. But like you suspect the width is going to be tricky with size 10 boots at those lengths. So you may have to compromise and go a little bigger. The Ladies Choice is going to be too narrow for your boots, IMO.
One thing worth mentioning is that if you have 26cm feet, then your boots are probably too big for you. With feet of that length, you should be able to at least get into a US9, if not an 8 or 8.5, and that would open up more options for you.
Based on your current boots, I think the following would work for you.
– Capita Pathfinder Reverse 145 (246mm waist width) – or if you could find a past season’s Capita Horrorscope 145 (the Pathfinder Reverse is basically just a new name for the Horrorscope). It’s still borderline narrow, but I think you get away with the width as a beginner. And then if you do end up getting smaller boots in the future, this would be a good width
– Niche Wraith 145 (246mm waist)
– Ride Twinpig 142 (250mm waist) – not really a beginner board, though. It would be pushing it level-wise, but might be doable. The size is great for you though, IMO.
– Rossignol District 146 (246mm waist)
– Rossignol Sawblade 145 (253mm waist)
– YES Basic 146 (247mm waist)
– Salomon Pillow Talk 145 (246mm waist) – like the Twinpig above, not a beginner board as such, but size should work, and not something that’s too far of a stretch for a beginner.
Hope this gives you some options that are available to you.
–
Hola Nate.
Increible lo mucho que nos estás ayudando. Gracias.
Hoy, leyendo muchos de tus articulos he empezado a aprender todos los estilos de manejo, formas de las tablas, medidas, etc.
Soy Hombre. mido 1’70 metros. peso 50 Kgs. Talla de pie 43 EU = 10 US.
Nivel Principiante / intermedio. Bajo por pistas rojas con algunas caídas. giro, freno clavando laterales y realizo algun giro 180º a poca velocidad.
Me manejo “bien” con el SkateBoard, Street Style, pequeños Ollies y poco más.
Esquío/SnowBoard aproximadamente 2-5 días al año. Y agradecido porque todo cuesta mucho dinero.
Hasta ahora sólo he usado tablas de alquiler a pie de pista, que desconozco absolutamente que tallas ( seguramente 1’60 m) ancho (seguramente >26 cms que mide mi pie) formas (seguramente totalmente planas) tipo de fijaciones, etc.
Manejar éstas tablas siempre me ha parecido llevar un buque demasiado pesado entre mis pies.
Tengo mis propias botas de SnowBoard hace años, Marca y modelo
Todavía me estaba planteando si me merece la pena comprar mi primera tabla de snowboard. Pero ahora viendo que tanta diferencia puede haber entre una tabla “a mi medida” y formas, me he convencido de que si quiero realmente evolucionar en mi manejo sobre el SnowBoard, Comprar mi propia tabla es el paso que necesito.
Mi estilo de manejo es, pretende ser. … Primero, sobre Pistas rojas, aprender a Carvear bien y Frenar derrapando cuando se requiera. Seguidamente, hacer mantequillas. + pequeños saltos. Manejarme por terrenos bacheados, ….
Si consigo aprender bien ésto ya estaré más que satisfecho.
Mi siguiente paso sería. O bien FreeStyle, pero dudo mucho que sobre raíles, boxes, etc.
O bien FreeRide pero más con ideas de FreeStyle.
Me gusta disfrutar de dominar mi tabla, giros, 180, 360, mantequillas, saltos etc.
no me atrae especialmente la velocidad ni una tabla clavada al suelo.
Tipo de nieve. Lo más acostumbrado, sobre pistas rojas en Andorra. = ¿ Nieve dura ?.
Aunque claro que lo más agradable es la nieve blanda.
Estudiando he empezado a sacar mis conclusiones, espero que acertadas, no lo sé.
Talla, ( 1’70 metros – 15 % de altura según peso – 5 cms de altura por nivel principiante y estilo de conducción ) = 142 aprox.
¿Tú que opinas?.
Flexibilidad, Baja. 2 o 3 sobre 10. Pero la mayoría de tablas son Media, 5/10 aprox.
Formas. Nariz – Camber – Rocker en el centro – Camber – Cola. = Rockero Híbrido.
Para tener manejo y flexibilidad de movimientos a la par que un poco de estabilidad.
Me queda en duda si sería más acertado para mi,
Formas. Nariz – Roquero – Camber en el centro – Roquero – Cola. = Camber Híbrido.
¿Tú que opinas?.
Aunque soy hombre, estaba empezando a decantarme por la tabla GNU Ladies Choice.
Entonces me aparecen dos dudas y es cuando decido acudir a consultarte a ti.
1. GNU Ladies Choice 2021 0 2022, Alto de 142 cms, tienen un ancho de cintura de 23 cms aprox y un ancho de Nariz y Cola de 27 cms aprox.
Mi pié ya mide 26 cms. 0 Talla 43.
Aunque escoja la misma tabla con largo 155 cms ( opino que demasiado larga para mi ), sigue siendo estrecha en ancho.
2. Las tablas para Hombre Todo-Montaña + FreeStyle que he estado buscando, no disponen de tallas inferiores a 1’51 cms de largo. Es por eso que empecé a conocer y busqué en tablas para chicas.
Quizás tú me sepas recomendar algo más adecuado para mi.
3. GNU Ladies Choice 2021 es,
Nariz – Camber – Rocker en el centro – Camber – Cola. = Rockero Híbrido.
Simetrica en Nariz y Cola.
GNU Ladies Choice 2022 es,
Nariz – Camber – Rocker en el centro – Camber – Cola. = Rockero Híbrido.
Asimetrica en Nariz y Cola.
Asimétrica en las curvaturas derecha-izquierda.
Asimétrica en Camber. El Camber delantero es más suave versus el camber trasero es más radical.
GNU explica que éstas asimetrias ayudan a facilitar los giros y ayudan a manejar Interruptor (= Switch).
Pero yo lo intento y no logro imaginar porque éstas asimetrías me pueden ayudar.
¿ se trata de la fuerza que el conductor aplica con la pierna delantera versus la trasera y/o de la fuerza, agarre, equilibrio, etc que el conductor aplica al girar hacia un lado u otro ???.
Si la tabla es asimétrica, según yo sea Goofy o REGULAR, ¿debería de poder comprar la tabla con la simetría en un lado u otro ????. En mi mente me lo imagino como que Sí, debería.
En mi mente prefiero una tabla simétrica.
Quizás tú me lo puedas explicar mejor.
Espero entender mejor todas éstas dudas después de tus respuestas. Muchas gracias.
Hey Nate!
I am a beginner for snowboarding, and plan to buy my first board, I’m 165cm, 57kg with boot size US 5.5-6.0. I have read through all your reviews, and really like GNU ladies choice, I like all-mountain and freestyle, with a little bit of power riding. I will ride 80% of time on grooming trails in the East coast with my family members, and sometimes trees. I always thought that I should choose the board around 145-147, Could you give me some advice on size of the board, ladies choice?
Many thanks!
Hi Elsa
Thanks for your message.
For your specs and what you’re describing, I would be looking at the 142.5 for the Ladies Choice. I think that’s the best size for you for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, as a beginner, sizing down is a good idea.
Secondly, the Ladies Choice (and likely most boards) is wide for your boots in the 145.5 and the combination of the length and width make it overall on the big side for you, IMO. I would say around 146 in terms of length, if you were an advanced rider with a foot size more suitable to that width of board. But as a beginner and with your foot size, the 142.5 is much more appropriate, IMO. Even as a more advanced rider, I’d say 142.5, because of that width. Even the 142.5 will be on the wider side, but not as wide – and sizing down the length a little compensates for it being on the wider side.
As a side note, I wouldn’t consider the Ladies Choice a purely beginner board. But if you are a high end beginner, bordering on intermediate, then I think you should be OK with it.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for your help!
I did not read your beginner skill level advices in the website before, I had read it today, and I think that I was too optimized about my skills in my last message, I thought that I will be able to grow my skills quickly to adapt into the ladies choice, but I was wrong before.
My situation is that I am a beginner 1, and had only learned snowboarding 1 days in the last year, I need to register a snowboarding lesson to learn and practice my skills this season along with my kids, and I could generally go to snowboarding 5-10 days per year. In this case, I can only practice and grow my skills in a few days per season. Plus, I normally ride in Ontario, Canada, maybe 1-2 days in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec every year, the snow condition here is generally groomed, but sometimes hard snow with a lot of ice.
Due to these reasons, I have read your top 10 beginner, Top 10 All-Mountain/Freestyle, and Top 10 intermediate board reviews again today, I re-think about my new board, and really want to select a suitable skill board. I need a board to learn and with some potentials to grow my skills into a intermediate level, and then I will change to a ladies choice kind of board later, hope I can learn quickly. I have selected several board options below, and would really want to ask your advices, and if you could also recommend other options and board size which you might think better for me. For binding, I am thinking to buy union binding, Milan or Julian. I am 165cm, 126 lbs, boot size US 5.5-6 for Burton, in fact I have not bought the boot yet.
Here are the board I selected: (I like GNU and Lib tech, hear their meg traction make easier to turn and on ice)
– GNU Chromatic
– GNU B-Nice
– Lib Tech Glider BTX (like the graphic)
– CAPiTA Space Metal Fantasy (like the graphic)
– Nitro Lectra
Thank you so much for your advice and help, I look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Elsa
Hi Elsa
Thanks for the update. A good way to go, IMO.
Magnetraction certainly helps in icy conditions. Not the only boards that help in those conditions (and there are other factors other than edge tech which can help too). But the GNU/Lib Tech options you’ve listed are good choices, IMO, as beginner boards that are also good in hard/icy conditions.
Space Metal Fantasy not as good in hard/icy conditions. Lectra not amazing either, but in between, I would say.
Of those options the Glider is the most advanced, but still beginner/intermediate friendly.
Size-wise, I’d be looking at:
– GNU Chromatic: 143
– GNU B-Nice: 142
– Lib Tech Glider BTX: 143
– CAPiTA Space Metal Fantasy: 143
– Nitro Lectra:142
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your advice, you made my purchasing of the board way easier than my time consuming search!
From the above board list, I am debating on choose one of them, can you give me a ranking for the selection based on my situation now? I am leaning to Lib Tech Glider and GNU Chromatic. BTW, do you think GNU Velvet works for me? The Asym technologies seems make the slow speed turning easier and forgiven.
Given the board have similar flex, could you recommend a appropriated binding that could work with the board better?
Many thanks,
Elsa
Hi Elsa
The Velvet could work, IMO. It’s a little stiffer than the others, but still a little softer than the Ladies Choice. And it’s got a more mellow camber profile than the Ladies Choice, but a little more camber than the other Lib Tech/GNU options in the list above. So, in terms of skill level, it’s kind of in between those in the list above and the Ladies Choice. In order of most advanced to least, of all the boards we’ve discussed, I would say:
– Ladies Choice
– Velvet
– Glider
– Space Metal Fantasy
– Lectra/Chromatic/B-Nice
So, I think if you want the easiest possible ride to start, then Lectra, Chomatic, B-Nice, or Space Metal Fantasy are the way to go. If you want something that’s just a little bit more advanced, but still beginner friendly, then the Glider or Velvet, with the Velvet being the more advanced of those two.
In terms of bindings, I would say something with around a 4/10 flex would be a good bet to match anything there. If you were to go with one of the softer options, then you could go a little softer, to like a 3/10 flex. For the Velvet, you could go up to a 5/10 flex, but for your level and specs, I would still stick to 4/10, even if you went Velvet.
Some good options in the following:
>>Top Women’s Beginner Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
Second list is labelled “freestyle” but they are fine to be used for any type of riding, if they’re an appropriate match for a board.
Hello Nate,
I’m kind of lost in choosing my first snowboard for my level, style, budget & local groomer condition (often icy), so I would really appreciate your opinion.
I’m almost intermediate – beginning to make small jumps, ollies&nollies, stuff like that; I really enjoy riding switch and tend to catch speed, but not too aggressive; I’d also like to try powder. I can ride like a week a year (in winter), and where I am from, I haven’t seen any parks – only (icy) groomers with natural bumps.
I’m 169cm, 49-50kg, normally 7 US shoe size, but my Salomon Scarlet boots are actually size 9.
First of all, I would like your opinion on which snowboards would best fit all these conditions. Personally, I’m leaning towards Gnu Ladies Choice (only 145.5cm available) or Gloss, although I’m not sure which length.
If you also have bindings in mind that would match, that would be great.
Thank you!
Hi Andrada
Thanks for your message.
Given how you describe your riding, the regular icy conditions and your ability level, I think the Ladies Choice would be a really good option. Good on icy conditions, decent at powder, without sacrificing switch ability and great for ollies, jumps etc.
Size-wise though, I think the 145.5 is too big for your specs. The 142.5 would be a really good size for you, IMO. The only concern there is the width, given that you’ve ended up in 9s. But if you’re typically a 7, then it’s a really good width for your feet. But having to go so long in boots, makes it a bit narrow for your boots. In terms of feet, you don’t want them too far inside the edges (ultimately they are what applies pressure to the edges), but you also don’t want your boots too far over the edge (so they don’t drag in the snow, when your carving).
Having to go to a 9, when you’re normally a 7 tells me that either the boots are too big for you – or that those particular boots (or Salomon in general) don’t fit your feet/ankles/calves well, so you’ve had to go that big to compensate for that bad fit.
Ideally, you’d get new boots, that are 8s or less, but I understand if you already have boots that you wouldn’t want to buy more. But also to note that ideally you wouldn’t have boots as soft flexing as the Scarlet on the Ladies Choice – so changing boots also makes sense for that reason (to get more appropriately flexing boots). But definitely get if you didn’t want to get new boots yet.
Rather than going to 145.5 in the Ladies Choice, which I think is too big for you, I’d look at a different board that’s shorter that that but a little wider. If you do change boots though and can get in a smaller size, then I think that board, in the 142.5, is a great option.
If you’re not keen to change your boots, I can recommend some suitable options if you’d like that are a little wider, but in a good length range. Then once you’ve settled on a board, we can look at bindings that would be a good match.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’m looking for some advice for buying my first snowboard ready for when the season begins. Although this will be my first snowboard, I would say I am more of an upper beginner / intermediate rider, I did a full season last year and got out on the snow roughly 3x per week.
My local resort is Whistler, I haven’t ridden Whistler before I’ve heard we get a lot of powder. I’m looking for a good, all mountain board – something which is fun and playful for side hits/jibbing and maybe some park, but also good for some powdery tree runs off the groomers. I’m only 5″2 weighing around 49kg and not an aggressive rider, most boards I have demo’d have been around 140.
I will be investing in a Splitboard next season for backcountry, so really looking for something that’s fun for resort riding but will also work in some more powdery runs just off the mountain. I currently wear the Vans Encore Pro in a size 5.5, but looking to change to the Ferra Pro this year for the hybrid lace/boa system.
Any advice would be much appreciated, thank you!
Hi Danie
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I think somewhere in that 138-140 range is a good length for you. For width, with 5.5s, I would try to look for something narrower than the average board. Some boards that are 140 will be too big, IMO, if they are also quite wide for your boots. I’d try to go no more than a 232mm waist width.
Something from this list could work, as long as your not needing something super in terms of powder performance. But given you want some powder performance, then looking at something like the Ladies Choice or Paradise is probably a good idea. And I would also check out >>My Top 6 Women’s All-Mountain Snowboards . Since you’re not looking for anything too aggressive, some of those would be out. Also, not sure that any will have suitable sizes, taking into account the waist width.
Taking all that into consideration, I would be looking at the following:
– GNU Ladies Choice 139.5 (226mm waist width)
– GNU Gloss 140 (233mm waist) (or even the 136 if you wanted something even more easy going)
– Arbor Poparazzi Rocker 138 (231mm waist)
My front runner would be the Ladies Choice. I think it’s the best size for your specs and fits what your describing. It’s also not the cheapest board, so if that’s a big factor for you, then my second choice would be the Poparazzi Rocker, then the Gloss.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for your advice, this is super helpful!
Interesting hearing your thoughts on the waist width, something I hadn’t even considered. I have been looking at both the Gloss and Ladies Choice, leaning towards the Gloss. Is there any reason why I should go rocker or rocker/camber hybrid over straight camber? Also, the Ladies Choice has an asymmetrical nose and tip which isn’t something I’ve seen before, do you know how this would change the performance and effectiveness of riding switch?
Thank you!
Hi Danie
Without going too much into it, essentially width at the inserts (which isn’t typically published, which is why usually we refer to the waist width) you don’t want to be so narrow that you risk boot drag but not so wide that your feet are way inside the edges of the board. With your feet way inside the edges of the board, it’s more effort to exert leverage on the edges, making initiating a turn more difficult. So, ideally you want to get your feet (talking feet because they are essentially where the leverage is coming from) as close to the edges of the board – or even slightly over the edges of the board – without your boots overhanging too much, to avoid boot drag (noting that some overhang is fine – and actually actually a good thing, because it means that your feet are closer to the edges, but just don’t want so much that it’s causing boot drag). In your case, with 5.5 boots you shouldn’t have any issue with any women’s board in terms of boot drag, so going as narrow as you can find is a good bet. That was the short version, I promise!
I typically recommend going for something that’s either hybrid camber (rocker/camber/rocker), hybrid rocker (camber, rocker, camber), or flat to rocker (rocker/flat/rocker) as a beginner or intermediate rider. Straight camber can be very unforgiving of errors. I like all-camber boards, but they can be catchy if you’re technique is a little off.
I find that asymmetry makes riding switch easier. I’m not sure of the reason why, but I really like asym boards for riding switch. Asym twin, to me, is as good as it gets for riding switch. It’s a subtle difference versus a true twin, which is also great for riding switch, but I prefer it. That said, true twin boards are typically very good for riding switch. Of course you’ve got to take into account how easy the board is to ride in your natural direction as well. A board that’s more difficult to ride in your natural direction will be more difficult to ride switch, even if it is a true twin or asym twin. You shouldn’t have any difficulties with either the Gloss or Ladies Choice in that respect though. Between the two, the Gloss is the easier to ride board.
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for explaining! This all makes a lot of sense and is really helpful, not something I’d even thought about either so really good to know.
Looking more into it, I think the Gnu Ladies Choice seems like the best option. I was also looking at the Jones Twin Sister, but I’m not sure if this will be suitable with the slightly wider waist width.
Are there any particular bindings (brands/types) you would recommend for this type of riding/level?
Thanks again!
Danie
Hi Danie
Yeah Twin Sister is a little too wide, IMO, for your specs. You can size down sometimes to try to compensate for a wider width, but for the Twin Sister, there isn’t a size to size down to.
For the Ladies Choice, I would say something around 5/10 or 6/10 in terms of flex of bindings is a good way to go or at a stretch you could get away with 4/10. For your specs, I wouldn’t go stiffer than 5/10. It’s a good idea, IMO, to get something that matches the board well and then the second consideration is your specs. A rule of thumb is for heavier riders to err on the stiffer flex side and lighter riders to err softer – just because heavier riders naturally apply more pressure to the bindings. So for you, I’d be looking at 4/10 or 5/10 flex. Also for your level I wouldn’t go too stiff either, but you should be good in that range for your level.
Given that you like to do side hits, jibs etc, I would look for a binding that provides good board feel and has decent shock absorption too. Check out the following lists and you can find scores for individual factors like shock absorption and board feel in the score breakdowns.
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hi I am intermediate rider looking to buy my first snowboard. I am 5’ tall, 117 lbs and my boot size is 6.5. I always ride groomers. Hard/ icy conditions. I want a board that is easy to turn. Great on edge to edge. I just want to buy a perfect board for me. Please help.
Hi Joy
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I would look at something between 138-141 for your specs and how you describe your riding.
Given how you describe your riding an all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle board would be perfect, IMO.
Lots of options for what you’re describing, but here are some that I think would work really well:
– Arbor Poporazzi Rocker or Camber 138 or 141 (the rocker version will give you a slightly easier ride, the camber version more pop and better edge hold)
– GNU Chromatic 140
– GNU Gloss 140
– GNU Velvet 139
– GNU Ladies Choice 139.5
– Never Summer Women’s Proto Synthesis 139
– Salomon Rumble Fish 140
From those options the Ladies Choice and Proto Synthesis are the most advanced options and take slightly more effort to ride well, but still definitely doable for intermediate level. The Chromatic is more on the beginner side of things. In order of easiest to ride to hardest, I would say:
– GNU Chromatic
– Arbor Poporazzi Rocker
– GNU Gloss
– GNU Velvet
– Arbor Poporazzi Camber
– Salomon Rumble Fish
– GNU Ladies Choice
– Never Summer Women’s Proto Synthesis
But this is already taking into account that you want an easy turner, so none of them are like super hard to turn on or anything. All good in hard/icy condition and a good length and width for your specs, IMO.
Hope this helps
I am giving you a virtual hug right now. I love you Nate. Thanks. You just made me so happy .
You’re very welcome Joy. Thanks for the virtual hug and the kind words!
Hi Nate. Me again. I bought the GNU Ladies Choice 139.5. Please, I still need your help on bindings and boots. I am buying bindings and boots as soon as I get your response. I rely on you. Thank you so much.
Hi Joy
Great choice, hope it treats you well.
For bindings and boots, I would look at something around that 5/10 flex level for that board and up to 6/10. I would check out the following options:
>>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
Let me know if you have any questions about those or need any help narrowing down.
Hi Nate! This article was very helpful, I would have some questions if you would be so kind to give me some guidance. I am intermediate rider, 165 cm and 56 kg (EU Boots size 37). I have been looking into buying a new snowboard, deciding between Ladies Choice, Dream Catcher and Equalizer and some similar options (all mountain/freeride, mid flex, looking at good stability, carving and good edge hold.). My questions is which board would you recommend? I saw you recommended Paradise, is it better than Equalizer? Which size of the boards would you recommend for me? I am also considering buying Burton Step On bindings and boots – would you recommend those at all and also with the mentioned boards.
Hi Pat
Thanks for your message.
If you’re looking at all mountain/freeride, then I would be looking at Equalizer over the Paradise. Paradise more for all-mountain freestyle – and I would say the same for the Ladies Choice. So between those I would be weighing up between the Dream Catcher and Equalizer, given an all-mountain/freeride style.
Size-wise, I would be looking at the 146 for the Equalizer and either 145 or 148 for the Dream Catcher. Probably leaning towards 148, as it’s the kind of board that feels short for its length – so you can ride it in a longer size. But if you’re more of an intermediate rider, then you could still go 145 if you wanted to go a little shorter.
I haven’t tested any step ons yet, but I’ve heard mostly good things. I think all 3 (Limelight, Ritual LTD and Felix) would work for those boards, but I would be leaning Felix, as I think it’s the best flex match for those boards and the best option if you’re doing more freesride than freestyle.
Hope this helps
Thank you, Nate, it definitely helps! 🙂 I am still deciding – I am in no rush as it is currently almost impossible to get some snow time in Europe due to COVID. If I may add, I am looking for a board that would allow me to go faster and as mentioned, would hold well in icy conditions. I am in a group mostly surrounded by skiers and they are often faster. On the current board, I was not feeling comfortable to go faster and was not feeling good stability and confidence on steeper/black slopes – I found it hard to hold well in turns and I believe a better board would help me improve and be faster. Currently, where I am looking to buy, they only have 148 Dream Cather so if I will go with this one, I will probably buy 148. Is there any difference between those two boards that I should keep in mind? Based on that, does any other board comes to your mind? I will probably go with Felix Step On Boots, thanks for this explanation!
Hi Pat
Given that you’re looking to go faster, then I think the 148 would be the most appropriate size for the Dream Catcher.
Differences, I would say, IMO:
– Dream Catcher a little stiffer (6/10 flex versus 5/10 on the Equalizer) but they’re both medium
– Dream Catcher subtly more stable at speed
– Equalizer a little better for jumps
– Dream Catcher a little better in terms of edgehold
If you were going to look at GNU, then I would look at the GNU Klassy as another option.
Hi Nate! Asking for the future. What bindings can you reccomend for the Gnu Ladies choice? Burton Lexa/Escapade, Flux Gs/Gx or maybe Flux Gu will work? Or it’s better to get Bent Metal Stylist?
Thanks a lot!
Hi Elena
Lexa and Escapade would both work. The GS would also be a great choice. The GX a little too stiff for it, IMO. The GU too soft. I don’t test Bent Metal bindings currently, but on paper, the Stylist looks like it would be a good match to the Ladies Choice.
Hi Nate! Thanks a lot 🙂
And what other bindings can you reccomend? And what about Now Brigada? Very interesting to try skate tech.
Hi Elena
I think NOW Brigada would work too. Not a massive fan of NOW bindings myself. Mostly because I find they don’t have a lot of butterability and I like to feel the board’s flex more. And I’m not a big fan of their straps. But what they do do very well is shock absorption. The best in the industry there – and are good in terms of response as well.
Some other options that I think would work well with the Ladies choice:
– Salomon Mirage
– Union Trilogy
– Union Legacy
– K2 Hue
Hi Nate,
Thanks for all this great information! I’m looking into the GNU ladies choice but am a little unsure on the height I should choose since it’s been so long since I’ve bought a board. I’m an advanced rider, 5’7, 128 lbs, size 8/8.5 shoe and like a mix of riding around the mountain and park. I generally prefer my boards a little shorter but I was reading that the ladies choice is already a slightly shorter board.
Any recommendations on height?
Appreciate the help!
Hi Kiera
Thanks for your message.
For this board, based on your specs and what you’re descibing, I would go with the 145.5. I think that would be a really good size for you for this particular board.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Hope you are getting in some turns this season! I have a question about the Never Summer Proto Synthesis. On their website it doesn’t list the weight ranges for each board size. I’m 5’2, 128 lbs, size 7 boot. Would you recommend a 142 or 145? I normally ride groomers. Upper intermediate.
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for your message. I have had a few days getting some turns in so far, and loving it! Hope you’re getting out there too.
Never Summer doesn’t provide weight recommendations unfortunately. But weight recommendations from brands are only somewhat useful as they only take weight into account (and also because weight ranges tend to be quite wide). Whilst weight is an important factor, I like to take into account ability level, riding style and height as well.
Based purely on your specs, I would say probably 142 for this particular board. But if you could also let me know your rough ability level and how you like to ride. i.e. stick to groomers, ride trees, jumps, park, sidehits, aggressive or more playful or in between, bombing fast etc, that would also help.
Strong intermediate. Comfortable on all blue runs and easier blacks. Primarily ride on groomers and and little off piste if the conditions are right.
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for the extra info. I would go 142. You could certainly ride up to a 145,146 depending on the board, but for this particular board, which rides a little longer (not much length in the way of tip/tail outside the contact points), I think the 142 would be your best bet.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking into the Arbor Swoon camber, Solomon Rumble Fish, and GBU B-Pro C2 or C3. I’m a 165 cm, 56 kg. I like to ride all mountain freestyle, and I’m between a level 7 and 8 for sure. Can do spins, hit boxes and rails, and very comfortable on small and medium jumps. Looking to progress in jumps and pipe, really nail 360s. Prefer camber over rocker because of that. I currently have the Ride Saturday from when I started boarding. So it has way more flex then what I’m looking at. I’m worried about such a jump in flex because I do enjoy how playful my Saturday is, and I feel like all three boards are pretty stiff, but I know to progress the way I want to progress I have to go more stiff, and I don’t do too many butters or rails anyway.
I was wondering what your opinion was on these three boards, as I’ve pretty much researched everything I can. Any info would be super helpful. Thank you!
Hi Kim
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t worry about those being too much stiffer than the Saturday. They will feel stiffer, particularly to begin with versus a well used Saturday, but they’re not massively stiff boards or anything.
They would certainly all work for what you’re describing, and it seems like you’ve done your research well. If you’re looking at the B-Pro C2, you must be looking a while back – I don’t think it’s been C2 for like 5 or more years now. The C3 version has also now been discontinued but that was only last year, so you might be able to find one of those. If not and that’s the direction you were headed then the GNU Pro Choice (C3) or Ladies Choice (C2X) or the Lib Tech No.43 would be the closest equivalents.
If I had to make a call, I would be leaning Rumble Fish or Pro Choice/B-Pro (if you wanted more camber with the C3) or Ladies Choice/No.43 (if you would prefer a little more rocker). All these options have a little more camber than the Saturday. For Pipe I’d be inclined to go a little more aggressive, in which case Pro-Choice/B Pro would be the preference.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi mate,
My girlfriend is a beginner – intermediate rider with about 20-25 days on the mountain and is looking at getting into park. She’s progressing rather quickly and is interested in the ladies choice but we are unsure of what size to go for. She’s 163cm, 64-65kgs with size 8US feet. We are in whistler and at the moment the ladies choice will be her quiver of 1 board for the next 6 months to 1 year. Would the 145.5 or 148.5 be the better choice if the riding was split into say 40% groomers, 35% park, 25% powder? Also would we need to
Upgrade her bindings if she has the Union rosas atm? Would the juliet or milan be a better pairing? Thanks very much for your advice, always helpful
Hi Jaydon
Thanks for your message.
Those are the 2 sizes I would be debating between too for your girlfriend, but I would be leaning towards the 145.5 for a couple of reasons – a. as she’s beginner/intermediate b. because I think it’s the slightly better option taking weight/height and boot size into account and c. because she’ll be seeing a fair bit of park time.
In terms of bindings, ideally something a little stiffer than the Rosa’s to drive the Ladies Choice. The Juliet would be the best flex-match, IMO. But the Milan’s are slightly nicer bindings overall. Both would definitely work and be an improvement over the Rosa’s. I would be just leaning towards the Milan, but the Juliet would do a good job too, if you wanted to save some cash.
Hope this helps with your decision
Cool! thanks very much For you help Nate, always appreciated
You’re very welcome Jaydon. Hope you’re both having awesome seasons!
Hi Nate,
I need your advice on the GNU Ladies Choice. I’m going to Whistler in March and plan on renting the Ladies Choice for a day and need your advice on size. I normally ride between a 143-145 and I am an intermediate rider (groomers mostly but will venture out ungroomed terrain in powder). I’m 5’2, 124 lbs, and I wear a 6.5 boot. I currently ride a Dream Catcher 145. What do you recommend in terms of sizing on the Ladies Choice? Would a 145 suit me?
Hi Jen
Thanks for your message.
I would go 142 for the Ladies Choice for you (which is technically actually a 142.5). It’s the kind of board you can ride a little shorter. The Dream Catcher on the other hand is something you can ride a little longer. So, I would say to go at the shorter end of your range for the Ladies Choice and the longer end of your range for the Dream Catcher. You could certainly ride the 145.5, but I think the 142.5 would be the better option.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks again Nate, top site, very helpful & detailed, have a great season
You’re very welcome Phil. Hope you and family have an awesome season!
Hey Nate, great work as usual
Just wandering, daughter needs a new board, she’s an advanced intermediate & progressing & has been riding Torah Bright’s C2 board 146, for the last couple of seasons, she loves the board ( flex & playfulness ) but has grown a bit & is starting to boot out with her now size US10 boots, any suggestions on an all mountain freestyle board for her (14yrs, 166 cm, almost 50 kgs)
Also my partner, who is intermediate, also US10 could do with an upgrade from her Ride Rapture 151 ( 5’7″ & 64kg ) she’s been riding for a few seasons now & become a bit stagnant, pretty sure she could do with a next level board, again for all mountain freestyle, any suggestions on boards & sizes for them ?
Cheers Phil
Hi Phil
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, size-wise, I don’t think I would go any longer than 146 for your daughters specs. Usually I would say around 143-145, but since she’s used to 146, then around that is fine. But yeah, even if she’s still growing, I wouldn’t go too much longer than 146. But it does sound like she needs something wider. Mervin (Roxy, GNU, Lib Tech) boards do tend to be not much wider at the inserts than they are at the waist. So, the Torah Bright is 239mm at the waist, but probably isn’t much more than 244, 245mm at the inserts. The challenge is finding something that’s wide enough without going too long. One option that springs to mind is the Endeavor BOD. It’s a unisex board (which has men’s and women’s sizes) and whilst it didn’t make this list, it wasn’t far off. It has a 146 with a 246mm waist width – and likely to be around 255mm at the inserts (based on measuring the 156 at the inserts). Which should be plenty wide enough, I would imagine, without being too wide and without going too long. If you really wanted to go longer it does come in a 149 too.
Note that the BOD uses Burton’s channel system – so depending on her bindings, she may have to get a compatible disc to be able to use the channel system on it. Also, because the board is camber between the feet, with some subtle rocker tip and tail, it will feel quite different to the Torah Bright – which is rocker between the feet and camber underfoot and towards tip and tail. Not going to be as playful as the Torah Bright for sure. Not overly aggressive either, but not super playful.
Another more playful option would be the Burton Yeasayer Flying V in the 144. It has a 242mm waist, and most likely based on other Burton boards, would be likely around 251mm to 254mm at the inserts, which should be enough. It’s softer flexing than the Torah Bright. Not by heaps, but a little softer. So whether you wanted to go softer or not.
Going a little longer, if you/she were wanting to do that, something like the Salomon Rumble Fish in 148 comes into play – 243mm waist – and likely around 251mm (based on measuring a difference size of the Rumblefish).
This is all assuming Women’s US10 as opposed to Men’s US10. If it is Men’s US10, we could certainly look into some men’s options. There are some models that come in shorter sizes, but are typically a little wider. Or I could look into them anyway if you wanted, if she was open to that idea.
For your partner – again I think 151 is a good length to look at for her. Anything 149-151. But the Rapture is a very beginner type board, so I get that you might want to upgrade from that.
I think the GNU Ladies Choice 151 would be a good option. Probably just wide enough. And a good step up from the Rapture.
The Rumble Fish 148 is also an option as is the Endeavor BOD 149.
Again, if you’d like I can also look into men’s options, if she’s open to it, but I think those would work well for her. Again assuming women’s US10.
Hope this helps and let me know your thoughts and if you want to look into other options
Awesome, thanks for all your help Nate some great options for us to go over. I had quick look at these boards, as now is a good time to buy here in NZ as our season is just coming to an end
There is a crazy deal on a Salomon gypsy 151 & a Rossignol Diva 148 both 2020 boards, for my partner, just wandering what your thoughts are on these ? Sorry both women’s US10
Cheers again Phil
Hi Phil
The Gypsy could be an option in 151 for your partner. I’d say it’s a little more park oriented than the Rumble Fish, but still something you can over the rest of the mountain too – but park is where it’s most suited. Just a touch softer flexing vs the Rumble Fish – but a little stiffer than the Rapture and certainly more performance oriented and should be more lively vs the Rapture. So I think it could work. The only thing to consider really is if it’s too much to the park side of things than what you’re wanting. But size-wise, I think in that size it can work as an all-mountain-freestyle deck.
The Rossignol Diva 148 could work. I’d say it’s wide enough. It’s rated 7/10 in terms of flex, but I would say it’s more like 6/10. So still a step up in terms of flex vs the Torah Bright (5/10 I would say). It’s going to have more of a stable feel vs the Torah Bright – which is more of a semi-loose kind of feel. It’s camber between the feet/under the feet and rocker before tip/tail. So definitely going to be a different feel, but could certainly work. I ride the Rossi One LF as my “control” board when I do demos and it’s a very reliable, versatile ride. The Diva LF isn’t the exact equivalent – with the Diva having more camber, being centered and true twin (the One LF is Directional Twin with a small setback stance). But it’s a solid option.
Thanks again Nate for all your help, just like to say that your recommendation on the Tora Bright board was perfect for my daughter, an awesome board, also i’ve just had my first season on the new Yes Greats & again an amazing board so many thanks.
What options would you say in the mens board for my partner? She has decided she wants more of a stable board for all mountain riding with just cruising through the park now & then with the kids, so mainly carving up groomers, playing around & hitting side hits etc, nothing too serious
Kind of steering towards the Rumble fish or ladies choice? but maybe the Diva might be too much of a step up in flex from the Rapture but at the end of the day pretty sure she just wants something that’s planted, fun & can handle hardpack/ice, hope this helps
Cheers Phil
Hi Phil
Yeah, I think the likes of the Ladies Choice and Rumble Fish would work well for what you’re describing for sure.
In terms of men’s options, the following could also work:
– YES Typo 149 (248mm waist – around 256mm at the inserts) – nice mid flex (4.5/10) – would be a good step up in terms of performance and flex vs the Rapture, but nothing overly technical and easy to ride. It’s good in hard/icy conditions and fits everything else you’re describing well, IMO
– Lib Tech TRS 151N (2019 model): For 2020 there is now a women’s Lib Tech No.43 which is the equivalent of the TRS, but it’s bordering on being too narrow I would say. Even though the 151N is a “narrow” size it’s still a little wider than the No.43. E.g. No.43 in the 152 is 239mm waist – predicted around 245mm at the inserts and last year’s TRS 151N (if you can find it) is 247mm at the waist and around 253mm at the inserts. Also fits everything else you’re describing.
Hi Nate
Thanks for putting together all the info on your website, it has been very useful as I’m trying to get new gear after using mine for about 7 years now when I was a beginner.
I’m about intermediate level 4 and I only manage to board about 5 to 10 days a year.
Based on what I’ve read on your site, I gather I would like to get the Yes Emoticon or Capita Paradise. What length should I get if I’m about 1.60m/ 58kg and wear US 7.5 boots?
Also, any other board and bindings recommendations?
I recently bought the thirty two stw women’s boa and looking forward to trying it out in Dec.
Thank you!
Hi Trish
Thanks for your message.
For the Emoticon, I would be debating between the 143 and 146, but probably leaning towards the 143, mainly because it’s a better size for your boots. And length-wise both would work. But also to consider:
1. The 143 will feel more nimble, be better in trees and better for freestyle riding.
2. The 146 will be more stable at speed and better in powder.
For the Paradise, I would say 145 is your best bet. A good size for your boos, IMO, and a good length for your specs. It has a smaller effective edge, in relation to overall length vs the Emoticon – so the effective edge on the 145 Paradise is similar to that on the 143 Emoticon.
You could also check out:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
For bindings, check out:
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for your reply and for giving points to consider.
1) I was going to go with the 145 capita paradise and the evo site says suitable for boots up to US6. Does it matter?
2) do you think the never summer proto type 2 would be suitable for my ability considering I ride mostly groomers and wish to advance through more powder/ trees?
Thanks again!
Hi Trish
I think the PT2 would work OK, but it’s biggest weakness is in powder. In that sense the Paradise would be better – still certainly no powder specialist but better than the PT2, IMO.
I would worry about the PT2 being too narrow. IMO it should be fine. If you look at evo’s boot rating thing it goes all the way up to 7.5 for 2mm (for the next size up). They have to have a system in place for the sheer number of boards they have there, but I personally don’t think you’d have any issues on the 145. I measured the width at inserts (where the bindings go) on the 147 Paradise and it measured 246mm (237mm waist), so the 145 is likely to be around 244mm at the inserts (235mm waist). The average Women’s US7.5 boot (mondo 24.5cm) is probably going to be around 27.5cm to 28cm long. With a 244mm width at inserts – that would mean a total overhang of 3.6cm (assuming 28cm length boot). That’s 1.8cm for heel edge and 1.8cm for toe edge (assuming good boot centering. Which is a good amount of overhang, with room to move. And that’s straight across the board – you’d have even more leeway, with some angle on your bindings.
So, long story short, I wouldn’t worry about the width on the 145 Paradise with Women’s US 7.5 boots.
Excellent explanation! Thank you once again for breaking it down so well!
Now I am on a hunt for a 145 paradise.
You’re very welcome Trish.
Hi Nate,
Looking to get the Proto, but I’m not sure which size to get. I’m 158cm, 65kg with booth size 6.5-7. I like to ride around the mountain but also getting into park. I’m thinking either the 142 or 145, thoughts/recommendations?
Thanks!
Hi Amy
Thanks for your message.
Yeah I would agree that it’s between the 142 and the 145. I would say something around 145 for a lot of boards, but this is one of those boards that you can ride a little shorter, due to a good amount of effective edge compared to overall length.
I think the 142 would be a slightly better width for your boots, especially if you got into 6.5s and assuming you ride this board with +15/-15 binding angles (which is recommended for this board, being an asymmetrical twin). The 142 would be more maneuverable at slower speeds, better in the trees, more playful and better in the park.
The 145 would be more stable at higher speeds, float a little better in powder and be better for long, wide carves, IMO.
So, depending on what you value more from those things. Both sizes would certainly work for you, but hopefully this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Thanks heaps for your advice Nate! Think I’ll go with the 142cm.
You’re very welcome Amy. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it on snow. Hope you have an awesome season!
I’m looking to get the proto type two and was wondering what bindings would you recommend? I’m looking to progress from a beginner rider to an intermediate rider and I’m looking forward to try out some basic freestyle tricks this year, miserably failed to do so for the past 5 years. I was wondering if a stiffer or softer binding would help with the progression.
Hi Sam
For the Proto Type Two, something with around a 5/10 or 6/10 flex is a good way to go, IMO, but you could get away with 4/10. For starting out with freestyle tricks softer is generally easier, so probably looking at 4/10 or 5/10 is a good way to go, IMO.
Check out the following for some good options in that flex range.
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps