Below is my list of the best all mountain freestyle snowboards for men, what I consider to be the top 5 on the market. This list has been updated for the 2019-20 season.
As is tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com the boards will each be given a rating out of 100.
To give some perspective of the ratings:
OK so here’s the top 5!
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5=
Board: Salomon Assassin
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 86.5/100
The Assassin is a very versatile board that does a bit of everything-everywhere, really well.
It's also nice and light and lively and whilst it's something you can take in the powder when it calls for it, it really excels when it comes to getting air - be that in the park or on natural features.
Check out the video below for more details on the Assassin
Score Breakdown for the Assassin
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 6/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
POWDER | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 7/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.5/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5=
Board: Lib Tech TRS
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 86.5/100
I re-fell in love with this board when testing the 2019 model (the 2020 model is the same board, with different graphic). I had a bit of a falling out with the 2018 model, but it's back in my good books!
And for good reason - this is a great board for doing everything you want anywhere you want. Like most all-mountain-freestyle decks, it's biggest weakness is in powder - but for everything else, you can't go past it.
It's a lively board that you can get really playful on when you want to but can also lay down a good carve when the mood takes you. Perfect for riding the mountain, hitting every hit you can find, mixing it up and then hitting the park.
Check out the video below for more on the TRS
Score Breakdown for the TRS
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 5/10 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 6/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 86.5/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #4
Board: Capita Asymulator
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 87.1/100
The Asymulator is new this year from Capita. It continues on where the Spring Break Twin left off.
This board is snappy, light and lively, super fast edge-to-edge and just loves to get airborne. And that asymmetrical sidecut really helps to get a good carve on both heel and toe.
Given how light and snappy this board is - and the fact that landing and taking off switch - and how easy the board pulls around, makes this a great board to spin too.
Check out the video below for more details on the Asymulator
Score Breakdown for the Asymulator
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 5/10 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 6/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 5.0 | 10/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
PIPE | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #3
Board: Never Summer Proto Type Two
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 87.6/100
And the #3 board for 2019-20 is the Never Summer Proto Type Two.
Never Summer’s Proto Type Two is the perfect board for riding freestyle over the whole mountain. It can carve, it can jib and it can bomb when you want it to. And then it really comes to life on jumps and rides switch like it was born to.
And if you also want to venture into the pipe, the Proto will be a wicked tool to climb the walls with.
If you're looking for an asym, hybrid rocker, all-mtn-freestyle deck that carves and bombs like the best all-mountain boards, they don't come much better than this.
Learn more about the Proto Type Two in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Proto Type Two
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 6/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 4/10 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 7/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.6/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #2
Board: GNU Rider’s Choice
- CANADA
Flex: Medium
Rating: 90.4/100
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
The Rider’s Choice is an awesome deck for riding freestyle and can hack it all over the mountain too.
It can lay down a carve, it can jib and it’s not too bad at speed – but where this board really stands out – riding the other direction (aka switch) and on jumps (whether those jumps be of the man made or nature made variety). It's also super quick edge-to-edge.
It's near perfection for jumps - it's poppy, stable on landings and nice to spin. It's a lively board that is just, for lack of a better word - sharp.
It's not the carver that the Proto Type Two is, but it makes up for it in other areas - and has a more playful feel, for those that are looking for that.
The Rider’s Choice is also the best equal on this list for hard and icy conditions, so if you encounter those types of conditions a lot, then this is a great option for you.
Learn more about the Rider’s Choice in the Video below
Score Breakdown for the Rider's Choice
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.0 | 6/10 |
POWDER | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 6/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.4/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN-FREESTYLE BOARD #1
Board: Yes The Greats
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 92.7/100
*HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
And in at #1 is the YES Greats Uninc.
A board this fast and with the kind of carving ability it displays, has no right being so good at riding switch and hitting the jumps. But it does just that.
Not a powder hound (though it's a little better than it was with the new wider shape), but if you’re looking for a deck you can carve up the whole mountain with, at pace, hitting every natural hit you can find and then taking a detour through the park, then you might have found your match in the YES Greats.
The 4th of 4 Asym boards in this list, this board just feels so nice and natural to turn on and you can really feel that sharpness in those heel side turns.
Learn more about the Greats in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Greats
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 5.0 | 20/20 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 7/10 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 5/10 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 7/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.7/100 |
Over to You
Thanks for reading and I hope this post has helped to narrow down some options if you’re looking for an all-mountain-freestyle snowboard.
Be sure to check out the score breakdown's to see which might suit you the best.
If you want to learn more about any of these boards or check out current prices, check out the links at the top of each board description above.
Hi Nate,
First off thanks for all you do on this site, it’s an invaluable source of information to me and the time you take to help people out in the comments is really appreciated.
So a bit of advice if you could. I started snowboarding again last year after a 20 year hiatus. I picked it up again fairly quickly and would say I’m currently sitting right between intermediate level 5 to 6, based on your level chart. I want to start learning switch and jumping more which is my goal for next season. I’m an all mountain rider I guess – groomers, pow, rarely enter parks but will do as I improve.
Last season I hired a board which was pretty flexy and forgiving as it was my first season in years, but this season a mate sold me his Jones Ultra Mountain Twin 157 (2017 model) and I’ve just spent a week with that in Austria. First day the airline lost my board so I jumped on a mate’s Custom Flying V 155 for the day. Felt a little unstable and chattery at speed – not super confidence inspiring, but it made up for it with playfulness and just generally being easy to use, fun and forgiving. We mainly boarded pow that day and it felt easy to hit natural jumps etc (even though I rarely landed them), but on the piste it felt a bit too loose for me at speed.
Rest of the week on the Jones UMT and I can see why this board has such a good rep. In good snow I was bombing it and it’s super confidence inspiring on carves etc, but on more uneven terrain and jumps I found it a bit too stiff and difficult to handle for my level of riding.
So I’m basically looking for a board more my level that’s less stiff (but at the same time not crazy flexy), and that I’ll be able to progress on without outgrowing it any time soon – somewhere in between the Flying V and the UMT I guess.
From reading your reviews the below stood out to me, but would be good to know if you think any of these might be too advanced or unsuitable, and also if you have any other suggestions I’ve not mentioned:
Yes Greats, Gnu Riders Choice, Capita Asymulator, YES Typo, Custom X Flying V, YES Standard
I’m 43 yrs old, 178cm, 69kg, and will be riding Burton Genesis bindings (which I just ordered after reading your review) and Adidas Tactical ADV boots.
Cheers!
Ian
Hi Ian
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I think you’ve compiled a good list there, in terms of something that’s in between the Process Flying V and UMT. Just because you didn’t like the feeling of the Process Flying V, I think, even though it’s a little stiffer/more stable, that the Custom Flying V is probably out. It has a fairly similar feel to the Process Flying V. Not exactly, but I think it’s safer to cross that off.
Everything else there is a little more stable feeling, but softer flexing than the UMT – and overall easier to handle vs something like the UMT, and certainly easier than the UMT for the likes of side hits, park etc. And requires less advanced a level. I would say in terms of a feeling of stability vs a looser feel that the order of loose to stable would be:
– Burton Custom Flying V
– GNU Rider’s Choice (still more stable feeling than the Process Flying V and Custom Flying V, but not as much as the others here)
– Capita Asymulator
– YES Typo
– YES Greats
– YES Standard (still more playful/softer flexing than the UMT though).
In terms of powder performance, since you’re looking to get in the pow, I would say, from worst to best in powder:
– Capita Asymulator
– YES Greats
– YES Typo
– GNU Rider’s Choice
– YES Standard
– Burton Custom Flying V
I think they all fit into a good middle ground between something like the Process Flying V and UMT, so you’re good there, but hopefully that gives you a bit more to go off on those particular factors. There are reviews/scores for each of the boards above on the site, so if you wanted to check out how they are at other factors such as jumps, speed, carving etc, check those out too, but hopefully that’s a bit more to go off to narrow it down a bit.
Size-wise, I think something around 153-155 is a good range to look at for your specs/how you’re describing your riding. So I think partly the UMT being on the longer side for you as well, would have contributed to it being “more board” as well.
I would be happy with that boot/binding combo on any of those options.
If you narrow down those options to 2 or 3, I would be more than happy to give you my sizing opinion for the particular boards too. I would just need your boot size as well.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the quick reply Nate.
Boot size is a US 10.5 (I’ve seen that most people size down on the Tactical but I had to go a full size up – could be due to the 2020 gold liner instead of silver on the 2019 perhaps).
What you’ve told me above is super useful, and after checking out reviews of each board I’ve narrowed it down to the Greats and the Typo, with me leaning more towards the Greats. Just seen the 2021 versions of these boards online too and the Greats in particular is a thing of beauty.
I’d guess a 154 would be my size, but would be good to know if you think that’ll work with my boot size. I see that it’s now a wider board than previous iterations so hopefully it’ll work.
Thanks again
Ian
Hi Ian
Yeah I would go 154 for you, for sure. Definitely wide enough for 10.5s, IMO. Overall a really good length and width for you, IMO.
If you went Typo, I’d say 155 is best. It would be between that and the 156W. But, with Tactical ADVs I’d say you would be fine width-wise on the 155, though it’s a good bit narrower than the Greats 154. It would be more borderline, but I think it would be fine.
Amazing. Again thanks so much for taking the time to help me out, it’s super appreciated.
Cheers
Ian
You’re very welcome Ian. Stay safe and happy riding – the next chance you get to get to snow
Hey Nate!
Your site is the cause of LOTS of procrastination! In a good way 😉
Having only ever had rental gear before I am looking at buying my first set of board, boots and bindings, I plan to go roughly 5-6 days a year. I’d say my skill level is high beginner/low intermediate, I’ve progressed onto blue runs but struggle on some of the more difficult ones and starting to do butters/jumps/ollies. So onto my predicament, I believe the order of purchase should probably be boots first and then match that to bindings/board so that you can get the correct size, right?
Having yet to buy boots, I was reading about some of the boards and was looking at Capita Outerspace Living, Salomon Assassin and the YES Greats – thinking I want to get a board I can grow on. Upon my research I stumbled across an ex-demo model of the YES Greats 2020 which has only been ridden twice for ~408USD. Do you think this deal is too good to pass up and is there anything I should be concerned about with an ex-demo or should I look at another board entirely? Should I be looking at the 154 or 156? Last time I went to the snow the boots I hired were the Salomon Faction RTL (speedlace) in an 8.5 and I was on a Burton Progression 156W (the rental shop sized me up in about a minute).
Thanks for the help!
Hi Jono
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, they definitely shouldn’t have put you on a wide board with 8.5 boots. But often times rental shops give you what’s available and/or put very little though into sizing.
The Greats is definitely intermediate doable. It’s probably more ideal for solid intermediate and up, more so than high end beginner/low intermediate – but if you are confident you can work with it, it’s doable. The Greats is a wider board, so with 8.5s you’ve got to be careful it’s not too wide. It’s something I like to size down a little, depending on boot size. With 8.5s the 156 will be quite wide, so I would suspect that the 154 is better. However, if you can let me know your height and weight, I can give you a more accurate sizing recommendation. If the rental shop gave you a wide board, I wouldn’t trust that 156 is the best length for you, necessarily.
In terms of buying an ex-demo model, or any used model, there’s always some risk, but hopefully after riding it just twice, it should still be in pretty good condition. But there’s always some risk.
I think out of the 3, the OSL would be the most appropriate, in terms of being something that will be good for your current level, but that you can still grow into. But if you can let me know your height and weight, as sizing might also influence the best option.
But yeah, often a good idea to get boots first, but if you know your size, then it’s not critical, but still a good idea, if you can.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thanks for the helpful response!
Totally agree that getting the boots first is a good idea, I guess this option to buy a cheap ex-demo YES Greats prompted me into thinking maybe I should try and snag it if it is in good condition. To be honest, initially I may very well have just gone the OSL purely because of the price. My specs:
Height: 183cm (6 foot)
Weight: ~84kg (185lbs)
Do you think even the 154 Greats might be too big? What length OSL might you consider? Maybe I should just be forgoing the discount and do it properly by getting boots first and allow that to drive my board length.
Thanks for the awesome input!
Hi Jono
Thanks for the extra info.
For your specs, I would say something around 156-158 for an all-mountain-freestyle board, as a high end beginner, going on intermediate rider.
So the Greats 154 is certainly not too big in terms of length. But because of it’s width (and I’m assuming US8.5 boots, but correct me if it’s not US sizing) it is quite wide for your boots. Sizing to 156 for that board would make sense, but even then it’s on the wider side. I have similar height/weight specs as you, but with size 10 boots. I like to size down to the 156 and that works really well for me. But I’m just not sure about sizing down to 154 – but I’m not sure about the 156 either, in terms of the width it would be for 8.5s.
I wouldn’t say boots are the biggest determining factor for board length, but they do influence it in some ways, and certainly have a big say on a board’s width. If you go boots first, keep in mind that if you are looking at a mid-flexing board like the ones you’re considering, then I would make sure to get a mid flexing boot. I personally don’t like riding boots that are too soft for the board and I’ve heard a lot say similar.
For the OSL, it would be between the 156 and 158. I would be leaning towards 156. Even though it’s not that wide a board, if you do end up on 8.5s, then going on the shorter side might make sense. But you could certainly ride the 158 too. For the Assassin I’d go 156 too.
hello nate, do you think union falcor would be too rigid for yes greats or could work together ?
Hi Rico
I ride my Greats with my Falcors, and I like the setup. The Falcor’s are certainly a little on the stiffer side for the Greats, but I always prefer to go either flex-match or slightly stiffer with bindings vs board. The Falcor are certainly the stiffest I would go on the Greats, but I think they do work together. You can certainly go softer on the Greats too though. I also enjoy riding it on my Malavitas.
thanks for your response and success with what you do here!
You’re very welcome Rico
Hi Nate
I wanted to thank you for all the snowboard reviews you post! I’ve been reading through them for the past couple of weeks. They’ve been very insightful!
However, i have been stuck between choosing the right board and would love to hear your advice. I have narrowed down my board choices between the Proto type II, Yes The Greats, and GNU Riders choice. My biggest concern is my boot size,( i am 191cm and 85kg) i have just bought new burton photons step ons (size 12), and i am worried about dragging my heels/toes on the snow while carving, especially with Yes Greats. Should i lean towards Proto II or GNU because they are wider or i should be good with 159 Yes Greats.
I am really looking for you response, as i can’t make my mind for over a month now. I need to upgrade from my burton blunt to a one board quiver killer do it all, ASAP as it stops me from progressing bigger jumps and getting some proper speed down the slope.
Hi Mat
Thanks for your message.
All really good choice, IMO, so there isn’t a wrong choice there, but maybe looking at sizing can help to narrow it down.
Length-wise, I would be looking at around 159-162 for your specs, for these types of boards. But personal preferences, what sizes you’ve ridden in the past etc should also be taken into account.
In terms of width the Greats is wider than it looks. Estimated width at inserts for each of the 3 boards are (based on measuring a different size of each):
– YES Greats 159: 276mm
– GNU Rider’s Choice 158W or 162W: 273mm
– Never Summer Proto Type Two 161X: 273mm
– Never Summer Proto Type Two 158X: 271mm
So whilst the Rider’s Choice and PT2 look wider based on their waist width, there is a much smaller difference between waist and inserts on those boards vs the Greats. So at the inserts (which is where toe/heel drag becomes a problem) I would estimate that the Greats is actually a little wider. I think you would be fine on any of those options width-wise.
In terms of length, it would depend partly on how you ride, what you prioritize and what you’ve ridden and liked in the past. Generally, if you want a more nimble ride that’s easier to butter and in general better for freestyle and riding trees, then going a little shorter is a good idea. If you prioritize stability at speed or float in powder (though these boards aren’t great in powder in general anyway, but more surface area means better float in a like for like board), then going longer is the best bet.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate,
Your reviews have been an amazing help as I take this journey to finding a new board. I’m interested in a shorter, playful freestyle board as my current Capita Black Snowboard of Death is on the stiffer and longer side. I’ve been focusing on riding switch while mixing in butters and natural side hits. The boards I keep seeing on the top lists for freestyle boards are the PT2 and Yes. Greats so curious to know which you think would be best for me (as well as size reco).
I’m an intermediate to advanced rider, snowboarding primarily on the East Coast so the conditions aren’t the best. I’m 5’8″ and 180 lbs with a 8-9 size boot.
Thanks!
Hi Zach
Thanks for your message.
Both are awesome boards, but in your case between the two I would be looking at the PT2 in the 154. The biggest reason I would go PT2 for you, is that I think it has a better size for you. With the Greats, I would say you’d probably want to go to the 151, just for how wide it would be for your boots, but I feel like 151 is probably too short for your in terms of length. The PT2 154 would be a good length and width for they type of riding you’ll be doing with it, IMO.
And is probably a good compliment to your longer BSOD. What is the size of your BSOD by the way? Just want to make sure your quiver is well balanced.
I would say that the Greats is slightly better in hard/icy conditions, but the PT2 is really good in that respect too, so I wouldn’t use that as a deal breaker.
Also note that these boards aren’t super soft, if that’s what you were looking for. Certainly softer than the BSOD. I would rate BSOD 7/10 for flex and the PT2 5/10 and the Greats maybe closer to 5.5/10. So you’re definitely getting softer but not ultra-soft. If that’s what you’re looking for – freestyle oriented boards that can ride the rest of the mountain and aren’t super soft, then these are great options and I would go with the PT2 154, but if you wanted something even softer, then check out:
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
That helps a ton! My BSOD is a 159.
I was leaning toward The Greats and found last years model in a 156 (For a nice discount) but sounds like that would be too big. I’ll see if I can find a PT2 to demo before making a decision. Any other board you think would be good to check out? Jackpot? Evil Twin? Nitro Shtik?
Thanks again!
Hey Zach
Yeah, I think the 156 would be a bit big, mostly because of the width. And I think something a little shorter.
The Jackpot is also wider than most, despite what the waist looks like. The width at inserts is wider than you would think. That said, the narrower waist does help with maneuverability, even with the wider insert width, but still going to be on the wider side. But still a little narrower than the Greats overall.
For reference, the width at inserts for the the 154s for the Greats, Jackpot and PT2 are likely around:
Greats 154: 270mm
Jackpot 154: 268mm
PT2 154: 258mm
Also note, though that if you’re looking at the 2019 model Jackpot or earlier, then it’s not as wide (the 2020 model became wider) – the 2019 model 154 Jackpot is 263mm at the inserts.
I don’t currently test Bataleon or Nitro, so I can’t say much about the Evil Twin or Shtik, but size-wise, I think the 154s would work well. Generally, I think as a good compliment to your 159 BSOD, that something around 154-156 would be a good range to look at.
Hey Nate
since I found your site I have been All over it trying to soak up as much info as possible! Thank you so much for putting all of this information together it’s a big help.
But I think I need a little more if you have the time. For a while now I’ve been obsessing over finding the perfect board for this season and the next 5 or more seasons to come. I’m looking for something I can have fun on all over the mountain. But I’m not sure if I should get an all mountain board at an all mountain freestyle. I know nothing is going to be perfect for every situation but I like to have options.
I’m 5’10”-5’11”
160lbs
10.5 boot
Since I started riding I’ve been on a 155
I would like to say I’m an intermediate rider but I’ve only been on the mountain a few days in the past few years since moving to the east coast.
Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Salomon
Further to comments on the Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards Post, comparing the Custom Camber and Paramount, as 2 boards you were considering – I would say that the Custom Camber is an all-mountain board, but it’s relatively freestyle focused for an all-mountain board – so it’s pretty close to being all-mountain-freestyle. The Paramount, I classify as a freestyle board, but it could well be considered an all-mountain-freestyle board, but it’s on the more freestyle end of the spectrum, if that makes sense.
The biggest discussion between all-mountain and all-mountain freestyle is that an all-mountain board (at least how I classify them) are typically better in powder and all-mountain-freestyle boards are typically better for riding switch (and landing/taking off switch of course) – and are often better for jumps. So, I would say if you don’t expect to see too much powder, then an all-mountain freestyle board would be a good way to go. If you’ll see powder a reasonable amount, then all-mountain.
The Custom Camber and Paramount are quite aggressive boards, if you’re still considering those. Just wanted to point that out as their traditional camber profiles can feel quite catchy if your more of a low intermediate level. Should be no issues for a solid intermediate and/or if you’ve ridden traditional camber relatively regularly in the past and had no issues.
Size-wise, I think something around 155, 156 is a good length for you, based on your specs and riding style – so I would stick with something around that.
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate you are amazing! Very knowledgeable and thorough. I’m going to see if my local shop carries or can get any of you recommendations. If not I’ll pick up the paramount.
Thank you so much for your time and patience.
You’re very welcome Salomon. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new deck, whichever you end up with!
Hey Nate-
Super helpful info on the site. much appreciated.
I’m in debate between the GNU Rider’s Choice & Never Summer Proto Type 2. Both look like fantastic choices. Can you help distinguish some of the differences you see or feel? The specs look to be super similar so I’m having a tough time deciding which would be a better fit.
I see you’ve rated the Proto Type 2 as a better carving board but the Riders choice as a slightly better Pow, Jibbing, Jumping and Pipe board. Was this just personal feel or do you think different specs in the boards making this difference?
I’m 6’2 175 w/ a size 11 boot:
Proto Type 2 – either 160 or 157 (nervous on the 252Cm waist width) maybe 158W but I’d prefer more narrow.
Riders choice – 157 looks solid.
What would you recommend??
thanks a bunch for the help
Hi Ben
Thanks for your message.
Can’t go wrong with either, for sure. And yeah look quite similar specs-wise, and are quite similar overall, but still have a slightly different feel to each other.
The Rider’s Choice, I found, was just a touch on the looser/surfier side – and that’s what contributes to it being a little better in powder and not as good on a carve. Not sure if there’s a bit more rocker in the profile vs the PT2 or if the PT2 has more aggressive camber sections? But there’s something there.
The GNU feels a little lighter/snappier and the pop I found was super easy to extract and there’s some really good pop there. I would say that the PT2 probably has the same pop but just takes that little bit more to load it up. Not that’s it’s hard to load up at all, it’s a subtle difference, but that’s one of the factors I take into account for jumps. But both are certainly great jumping boards. In terms of pipe the main difference is that the Rider’s Choice is just that little bit better in hard/icy conditions. The PT2 is still good in that area though, but the Rider’s Choice just that little bit better, by my feel.
Size-wise – in terms of width, I actually measured both the Rider’s Choice and the PT2 at 260mm at the inserts. So whilst the RC is wider at the waist, it’s not any wider at the inserts (typical of GNU/Lib Tech boards to be not that different between waist and inserts). I’m typically comfortable with anything as narrow as 255mm with size 10s. With 11s, I think I’d want to go more up to 265mm but 260mm might be doable. But I’d say it’s pushing it a bit – if you have low profile boots, and assuming you’ll be riding with +15/-15 angles (which I would recommend that or something similar with these boards as they’re asym boards), then you should get away with it. It also depends on how hard you rail your carves. If you really get up on edge and get low, then that’s adding more risk for them being too narrow. I definitely get that you don’t want to go too wide, but don’t want to go too narrow either.
I predict that the 158W RC would be around 273mm at the inserts and the 158X PT2 would be around 271mm at the inserts. I don’t think those are too wide for 11s, personally. I usually like anything up to 265mm with 10s. With 11s, I think those widths should be fine for you. So, I would be inclined to look at the 158W for those 2 boards for you, unless you feel confident you can get on the narrower options.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey Nate, I have the same specs as the guy above and I’m looking hard at the Yes Greats and have been riding the Peoto 157 for two years. Would you go wIth a 156 or 154 since this board is so wide?
Hi PJ
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, I would go 156. With 11s it’s not going to be overly wide for you and I think 154 would be getting on the small side. Your riding the 157 Proto (I’m guessing with no boot drag issues?) so it will feel considerably wider than that, but 156 is still sizing down for your specs, IMO, so I think that’s the best bet.
Going to 154 you’re going to be dropping a noticeable amount of effective edge vs the 157 Proto, and might feel a little small for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate. I have these 2 options (on sales at my local store) :
GNU Asym Riders Choice C2X 161.5 or Libtech TRS HP C2X 159MW.
I’m 6’2 / 190 lbs/boots size 10, I’m an advanced rider.
I used to ride a Libtech Attack Banana 161 and when an edge broke, I bought the same board but 1 year more recent but @ 156W , which was awesome in the woods but was kinda ‘flapping / clapping’ when I was lending med-big jumps.
What do you think? Is there a big difference between those 2 boards?
Hi Sash
Not a massive difference between those boards. Not exactly the same either, but more in common than different.
One of the main differences is the asymmetry that the Riders Choice has that the TRS doesn’t. I personally really like asymmetrical boards and this for me puts the Rider’s Choice ahead of the TRS, Just overall I liked it just a bit more. On paper, the TRS is supposed to be stiffer than the Rider’s Choice, but I found them very similar. If the TRS is stiffer it’s only subtly so.
Not too surprised about your comments on the 156W, with your specs, so yeah, I agree that going a little longer is preferable. Between the 161.5 Rider’s Choice and 159MW TRS it’s a tough one. Usually, with size 10s, I would say not to go wide/mid-wide, but the TRS 159MW isn’t overly wide – from measuring the 157 TRS the width at the inserts is only 5cm wider than the waist width. If that holds true for the 159MW, which it likely does, then it’s most likely around 265mm wide at the inserts, which is in a good range for 10s, IMO. The Rider’s Choice 161 likely to be around 263mm at the waist (again another board – which Lib Tech/GNU boards tend to be – that isn’t that much wider at the inserts vs the waist). So width-wise, you’re fine on both, IMO. Both will be narrower than the 156W Attack Banana too – and likely similar to the 161 Attack Banana.
Length-wise, it’s a tight call. I’d say generally speaking that anything 159 to 161 would be a good size for you for an all-mtn-freestyle board, so both are within that range. If you were happy on the 161 Attack Banana, then the 161.5 Rider’s Choice might be your best bet – though keeping in mind that the camber profile on the Rider’s Choice and TRS is a little more aggressive/camber oriented, so they’ll likely feel like a little “more board” if that makes sense. But still if you think that 161 was the right size for you, I’d strongly consider the 161.5 Rider’s Choice.
However, if you felt between the 161 and 156W Attack Banana that something in between might be the sweet spot, then the 159MW TRS might be the way to go.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Whilst, I think the Rider’s Choice is just that little better overall, they’re close enough that going with what you think will be the best size would be the one I’d go with.
Thanks for the quick reply. I’ll go with the Rider’s Choice.
You’re very welcome. Great choice (pun intended!)
Hi Nate. I bought finally the Rider’s Choice 2018-2019 @ -40% off and it’s like the perfect everyday board. I was lucky to have like 3-4 really deep east coast powder days at Jay Peak so far. That board is incredible on jumps, destroys those small bumps after a powder day, floats easily on powder when you are used to ride Gnu/Libtech. When you ride this board, you don’t even ‘bother’ about it. And that asymmetrical shape makes me wonder if I haven’t learned to snowboard on my wrong side at first since switch riding is so easy. Butters are easy and edges never catched. The board could be a bit stiffer although because at high speed (+70kph), starts to wobble a bit. But overall , it’s an effortless board. All my friends who tried it couldn’t believe how easy this board rides. Thanks for all your help. I always enjoy watching your videos.
Hi Sacha
Thanks so much for your feedback and insights. Awesome to hear you’re loving your Riders Choice!
Happy riding
Hey Nate,
I absolutely love this website, I think it stands next to thegoodride as one of the best sites to learn/ get advice on any kind of snowboarding equipment!
I was thinking about getting the Yes. TYPO, but was wondering if I needed a wide board. I am a size 10.5 ( 5’11” , ~ 175 lb athletic build) and I was thinking of getting a 161 length board. Do you think I need a wide board (or am I just splitting hairs?)
Best,
Hi Ax
Thanks for your message.
With 10.5s, you’re kind of on the cuff. But in most cases, IMO, a regular width board is your best bet. In some cases a wide would be better, but usually regular. For the Typo, I would say regular width should be fine, particularly on the 161. Usually for your specs, I would recommend 158 over 161, but if you know you prefer a little longer and want the 161, then all good – and width-wise, I would say fine for 10.5s. The 158 too – it’s not that much narrower, so if you went with that you should be fine too.
If you ride with a really straight back binding angle and have boots with a large profile, then it might be pushing it, but in most scenarios, I would imagine you’re fine on either the 158 or 161 regular width Typo.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate. Would you not recommend setting back my stance on a TRS? If at all how much or how little? Thanks Justin
Hi Justin
Thanks for your message.
Typically I would ride the TRS centered, but that’s not to say you can’t have a bit of setback – particularly if you get a powder day. But I wouldn’t personally do more than 20mm (3/4″).
Hope this helps
No worries, thank you for weighing in so fast.
You’re very welcome dd
Excellent, thank you Nate! I will check out the lists. Also, one quick follow up if I can…….I have an opportunity to pick up a Rome Mechanic pre-loved but in good shape. I think Rome called it the Garage Rocker in the past – are you familiar w/it? Do you think it would work for my purpose of chasing my 9 year old around as he learns, follow him thru the Park, but still have enough stability to handle some speed?
Hi dd
I don’t currently test Rome gear, unfortunately, so I couldn’t say first hand. But based on specs, it looks like it could be an option. But unfortunately I can’t give you any personal insight on that one.
The old Rome Mechanic wasnt that great when it was released and they changed it considerably the next year. If its cheap it may be worth a shot. Im riding a Rome Factory Rocker – The black carnival graphic one. Its good at most things but the base is extruded so its Not that fast, but it still works well without waxing (the base looks patchy though) and the top shows All your fingerprints which may bother you. I like it a lot and mine was an end of season bargain.
Hey Nate – thanks for all the great reviews/advice. Based on your reviews, I picked up a Jones Explorer earlier this season and its been great so thanks for that! Hoping you can help me with a second board and am thinking my needs place it in the freestyle category? Looking for something that I can use with as my 9 year old learns to board. He was a quick study on skis so likely he’ll progress. I want something that handles some speed but is also forgiving/playful when we need to go slow (he’s also expressed park interest, and although I don’t have that desire, I will accompany him for laps there until he’s good to go). Would something from this list work? Or other suggestions? Thanks again!
Hi dd
Something from this list could work. But if you wanted to go even more playful, you could check out something from one of the following, which have some even more playful options too. And some of which are pretty good for handling a bit of speed too. If you’re looking for further score breakdowns on any of those in the Intermediate list, just check out the full review, where available, if you want more score breakdown details. If no full review, just let me know and I can give you more details.
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I see you highly recommend Proto Type Two, and I would like to go with it. However, I am struggling to get a men’s 152 cm or women’s 151.
I am 5’6” and 140 lbs, boot size is 7.5. The main difference is on the waist which are 248 mm and 240 mm, I have one season (12 times) experience, and feel I am about intermediate level. I’d like to develop my carving/turning skill and then learn some freestyle on the mountain. Not sure if there is a big difference, but I am under the impression that narrower waist makes carving/turning easier. What do you recommend? Thanks.
Aiden
Or if you have any other recommendations, I would love to hear.
Hi Aiden
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, I would go for the 151 Women’s version. IMO, it’s a better width for your boot size. And since 151 is, IMO, already at the higher end in terms of length, then going 152 with a wider width would make the board quite big overall for your specs, IMO. Having that narrower width helps to make initiating turns easier. You have more leverage on the edges which makes it physically easier to turn. And with 7.5s there should be zero issue with it being too narrow, IMO.
Assuming an intermediate level, this board should suit you well, or anything on this list. 12 times is quite fast to get to intermediate, but some people do progress faster than others. Some other options to consider (but I think the PT2 should be fine for you, assuming an intermediate level).
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi,
Thanks for all the snowboard reviews you post! I’ve been reading through them for the past couple of weeks. They’ve been very insightful. Trying to find a new snowboard for my husband and have narrowed down to a handful of boards – TRS, T.Rice Pro, Prototype2, Capital Outerspace Living, and Yes Greats.
Hoping you could help me consider the specs and style of his riding for the optimal board. He rides an old Rome Reverb Rocker 155W, 1200 effective edge, with a waist width of 261 – loves buttering, trees, riding switch, and powder. I thought I could just match the specs with one of the boards above but after reading reviews regarding powder and true twins…I’m less confident of my process. Any advice regarding his style and current board specs with the list?
Thanks so much!
Hi Jill
Thanks for your message.
You can ride all of these boards in powder. Just that they’re not going to be ideal – a bit more hard work keeping the nose afloat, especially in deep powder. But he would be having the same thing with his Reverb Rocker currently. If he likes to still ride switch even in powder, then something like this works, because a board that’s very good in powder in one direction is usually really bad in the other direction. So if that’s the case, then I would still look at something all-mountain-freestyle. The Salomon Assassin is another option, not on this list, that would do a great job riding powder in both directions.
However, if you’re looking to get something that’s better in powder, but still versatile, then you could check out the following instead:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
If you want a more accurate sizing recommendation, I would be happy to give my opinion. Would just need his height, weight & boot size. But if you’re looking to just match to that, then the:
Greats: 156 (or even 154)
PT2: 155X
TRS: 157MW (but this is less of a match, being longer and with less effective edge)
T Rice Pro: 157W (more effective edge but still longer)
OSL: 155W (but considerably less effective edge)
Salomon Assassin: 158W (effective edge good, but longer)
Based on that the PT2 and Greats are the best specs match. But it would be more accurate to have your husbands actual specs.
Hope this helps
Thanks for your quick reply! This does help but now more choices ha. He’s 5’10” 155lbs, and size 10 boot. Forgot to mention he often hits natural jumps for 180s and such.
I read some reviews on the T.Rice Pro and was worried it’d be too stiff and not nimble in the trees while the TRS has an extruded base. I really liked the T.Rice graphic but I’m trying not to pick based on that. He’s mentioned that the Rome feels too loose underfoot but that just could be the rocker hybrid? So not opposed to changing up the shape or more effective edge…I’m not sure which combats that better…
Hi Jill
Thanks for the extra info.
Yeah, I’d say sticking to around 155 is a good bet, given his specs, how you describe his style and that he is used to that size. Width-wise, with 10s he shouldn’t need a wide board for most boards around that length, depending on the particular board and depending on the brand of boots (some are more low profile than others). Unless he specifically likes wide boards for some reason, I would try to get him on a regular width. So, in that case:
Greats: 154 (it’s a wider board this one anyway, so going 154 and a little wider would be a good size, IMO)
PT2: 155X (I’d keep this one at 155X – the 154 might be borderline too narrow, depending, and the 157 a little longer than ideal, IMO, the 155 about the same width at inserts as the Greats 154 – and the same effective edge)
TRS: 157 (could go 154 too but that would be dropping a little effective edge. 157 overall a little longer than ideal – especially since he likes riding trees and doing 180s)
T Rice Pro: 155
OSL: 156
Assassin: 156
I didn’t find the T Rice too quick from edge-to-edge, so not that nimble for trees, so that’s certainly something to consider. The TRS doesn’t really have a size that I think would be ideal, so if the extruded base is an issue, then that’s another reason to cross that one off.
That looseness is most likely down to having rocker between the feet on the Rome Reverb Rocker. More effective edge can certainly add stability, especially at speed, but for his specs, I would say that there’s plenty of effective edge there. So trying something hybrid camber, might be the way to go, if he’s finding that loose feeling. Preferably without loosing too much, if any, effective edge. If you wanted to do that, then the PT2, T Rice Pro, TRS are all hybrid rockers, so that would cross them off. The OSL is probably dropping too much effective edge. So the Greats 154 and Assassin 156 would be your best bets, if you did want to switch up the profile. And would offer a more stable rather than looser feel.
Hope this gives you more to go off
This does! Thank you so much!!
You’re very welcome Jill
Hey Nate,
Thanks for all of the in depth reviews and rankings. I’m 6 foot, 200 pounds, and wear size 11 boot. I think I’m teetering on being an advanced rider for my style. I currently ride a Burton Skeleton key and enjoy chasing powder and going through the trees. I typically hit as many natural jumps (smaller ones) as I can find. The skeleton key is great, but I’m looking to add a second board for non powder days.
The main reason for the second board is learning to ride switch. I’d still like to hit jumps and play around on the groomers as well. Carving would be a bonus for the board, but not a determining factor. I’m willing to take a beating figuring out switch in order to not outgrow the board in a year. It sounds like all mountain freestyle may be the right category since powder ability isn’t really a factor.
Any suggestions from your list?
Thanks!
Hi John
Thanks for your message.
I absolutely agree, that going all-mountain-freestyle is a good choice for what you’re describing, and would be a good compliment to your Skeleton Key too.
Which one you go for is a harder question. Anything on this list would be a good choice, IMO. But since you have your powder board and aren’t likely to be taken this one into powder at all (if I have that right?), then maybe one of the Greats, PT2 or TRS would be your best bet – and they’re the better carvers in the list too. I really like asym boards for riding switch, so that would narrow it down to Greats and PT2 – but really anything on this list is great for riding switch.
Finding a good size might also be a narrowing down factor. What size is your Skeleton Key? I have your specs, but also getting an idea of what you currently have will help to decide the best size for your second board.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate! Burton was only making the 154 and 158 the year I got mine, so I’m on the 158.
Current boots are wearing out too. I was thinking about getting the ride trident or insanos to pair with the boards. Would those work with the skeleton key and an all mountain freestyle board?
Hi John
Thanks for the extra info.
I would say, size-wise, the following:
OSL: 160 (assuming you ride with +15/-15 angles on this board, then I think you’ll get away with this, though pushing it if you’re looking to really rail your carves. The 159W would work too. Potentially getting a little too wide though.
TRS: 159MW (the difference between waist and width at inserts on the TRS isn’t a lot, so this is narrower than it sounds – but would work well for 11s, IMO)
PT2: 158X (on the wider side, but still suitable for 11s, IMO)
Rider’s Choice: 158W (like the TRS isn’t that wide at the inserts compared to waist, but still wider than the TRS & PT2 at inserts, I would say – so getting a little on the wider side)
Greats: 156 – you could also go 159, but it would be the widest of all of them here in the 159. Would still work, but going 156 would give you a nice little agile ride. And there is still a good bit of effective edge on the 156. More so than the 159MW TRS, 160 OSL & 158W Rider’s choice. A little less than the PT2 158W. So whilst the overall length is shorter, you’re still getting that effective edge there.
So, sizing-wise, I would be weighing up the 159MW TRS, 158W PT2, and the 156 Greats (which is what I was leaning to before before sizing, so that didn’t really help! 😉 )
Personally I would go softer in terms of boots for both one of these and the Skeleton Key, to better match the flex. I would be looking at something around 6/10 or 7/10 in flex. I would rate the Trident 8/10 flex and the Insanos 9/10 flex. Some people do like to go quite stiff with their boots vs the board and/or bindings, so those are an option, if that’s what you prefer, but personally I would go softer for those boards.
If you did decide to go a little softer, check out the following for some options:
>>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Thanks again Nate. I think I’ll be choosing between the PT2 and Greats.
Looked through the medium stiff boots. I have a wider foot so I’d really like to try on some Adidas, but have no idea where to find them in store (in the Denver area). Do you just have to order online and hope for the best with Adidas?
Hi John
They do have Adidas in stores – but not sure about the Denver area. If you can’t find them in store, and still want to try them, you could order online and try them on – and send them back if they don’t fit well. A lot of online stores will have a policy to let you do that, but make sure the store you order from does allow this, before you order – if this is something you were happy to do. Can be a pain to do, if you don’t get it right first time, though. Also check out the following, for other brands that might work well with a wider foot.
Sizing Snowboard Boots: The Different Brands
Hi Nate,
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw how thorough and many are your replies :-O. … so I figured I’ll ask you too :-).
I’ve been riding for 15 years or so, but not that much and also usually not some big mountains. Mainly just cruising in various conditions, including icy parts, but I also like to fool around a bit, jump and somewhat jib (what else to do on a small slopes…). I outgrown my old set, which is very soft and probably even too long for me a long ago and finally decided to get something to step up my riding.
I think I narrowed the selection down to three boards: Lib Tech TRS HP, Never Summer PT2 and Jones Mountain twin which has attractive price tag and seems to fit in the category. Mainly I am interested in carving and edge hold, but as I wrote I am looking for an all rounder. I am bit worried about the duck stance with PT2, but I think I could go with a bit of a asymmetrical stance. What would be your suggestion?
I am also wondering about the size. I am relatively slim, so my height/weight ratio doesn’t exactly match the size charts… I am 182cm tall and weight 72kg. The shoes are 42-43 so I think normal width should be just fine right?
Thank you very much, really appreciate your efforts here!
Tomas
Hi Tomas
Please see your comment on the Jones Mountain Twin review for my reply.
Yo Nate!
I am debating on getting a new board and need some assistance. I have a Proto CT 152 right now (which I really like) with Rome Arsenal bindings and boot size 10.5 US. I love to board in any terrain and would consider myself on the lower end of a advanced level 6 rider. I’m 5’10” 160, so I’m thinking about moving up to either a 156 or a 157. The boards I have in mind are a Capita DOA, PT2, Lib Tech TRS, and Lib Tech Ejack Knife. Should I be worried about moving to a stiffer board? How will that effect my riding? I’m also open to any other suggestions you might have for me.
Thanks Nate!
Hi Trip
Thanks for your message.
I never rode the Proto CT but based on what I know of it, I don’t think the DOA, PT2 or TRS (have never found it as stiff as it’s rated) would be much stiffer. That said, if you went for one of those in a 156 or 157, then they would likely feel stiffer. The E-Jack Knife would certainly feel stiffer. The E Jack Knife is what I would consider a freeride board, so it’s quite different to the others you’ve mentioned, IMO. It’s relatively versatile for a freeride board, so it could still be suitable but it would take more to get used to coming from your current board.
Having a stiffer feeling board will increase your stability at speed and float in powder (as will having a longer board). It’s also better IMO (both the stiffness and length) for big wide carves too.
Going stiffer (and going longer) typically means less maneuverability at slower speeds and not as suitable for freestyle things, IMO. Though big jumps is the exception, where extra stiffness is good to have.
The TRS and PT2 will be most similar to your current ride – though they are both a bit different to each other and to the Proto CT. But one major difference is that they are more camber dominant than the Proto CT is. And being longer that would make a noticeable difference to. There would be some getting used to any one of those options, but the PT2 would likely be the least amount of change (essentially being an evolution of the Proto CT). Next would be the TRS, then the DOA, then the Jack Knife. So, I don’t know if that helps depending on if you’re looking for something really different, or want something that’s a little similar.
If you were going to keep the Proto CT and still ride it sometimes, e.g. for park sessions. Then the E-Jack Knife becomes a more appealing option. It won’t be great in the park but for everything else it would work well. Note that this is also the most aggressive option, not just in terms of flex but also in terms of camber profile. So, it’s going to feel a lot more aggressive.
But the others would still be different enough to the Proto CT, especially in the 156, 157 size, that you could certainly have a 2 board quiver with one of those and the CT.
Hope this gives you more info to go off
I’m an all mountain freestyler but I really like the Capita DOA. Only problem with that is I really want to progress on rails rather than sending it so I’ve been looking at more playful 3BT boards. Any advice? I’m 6’2 210lbs with a s12 boot
Hi Ryan
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say the DOA is terrible on rails, but it’s not that great either. If you’re looking for something more rail friendly, I would check out the following list:
>>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards
Though those won’t as all-mountain friendly as those on this list.
Most of the boards from this list (all-mountain-freestyle) I found to be a little better than the DOA for jibs (bar the Proto Type Two) but if you’re looking for something even more suitable, then something from the list above or you could look at some jib specialist type boards (which is a category I don’t test) but they tend to be pretty weak outside of jibbing a lot of the time.
I haven’t tested any 3BT boards unfortunately, so I can’t really say much there.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Thanks for the reviews, they do help a lot, but I am still not sure what board should I pick. I am thinking on buying a TRS 159cm board, I am 6’1 tall and 165 lbs, and I would call myself from upper-intermediate to advanced rider (2 previous seasons I was riding rossignol district, but lately the board seems to me as a very slow one). I am not fan of parks as well as powder, but I do like when my board is speedy and playful. I thought that TRS would be a good choice, but read some comments that on soft snow and slower speed its too grippy, could you comment on that? Also I am not sure with which bindings should I go for this board, either Union Strata or Falcor, could you recommend one of them or list pros and cons which I get with one binding that I do not get with another. If you have any other boards that you would recommend, I would appreciate it. And what stiffness of a boot would you recommend for me?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Valentyn
Thanks for your message.
As per my reply on the TRS review, I didn’t personally find the TRS too grippy in softer snow.
Now that I know your boot size, I would say that the 157MW would be your best size. For the Rider’s Choice, as I mentioned in my other comment. The 157.5 might be too narrow I suspect for 11s (it’s 255mm at the waist but at the inserts it’s still only 260mm – so there’s not much difference between waist and inserts). The 158W is probably getting a bit too wide though, so that might cross that board off. For the TRS, the 157MW would be a great width (IMO) and that’s the length I would go with for you over the 159MW. You could certainly ride the 159MW, but for this board I would go 157MW – though personal preference does come into it – so if you know you prefer that length, then it’s certainly an option too.
In terms of bindings, I would go Strata for the TRS, just because I feel it’s the better flex-match. Again, both bindings would certainly work on that board, so neither would be a bad choice, but I would go with Strata over the Falcor, for this particular board.
Hope this helps
Hello Nate,
First of all thanks for your reviews they make picking the board much easier task for me. But I am still not sure about which should I get. Could you help me with picking the board? I am 185 and 6’1 tall and 11 US boot size. Not fan of parks or powder, but I do like when the board is playfull and speedy + I do like to land jumps . I am thinking on buying 159W trs, but have few concerns. Will the magne-traction be ok if I will decide to cruise and will magne-traction be ok on soft snow days?(some people say it is just too grippy to enjoy) If you have any other boards to offer I would like to hear about them. Thanks in advance!
Hi Nate,
Thank you for great reviews, so great that they confused me and made me think hard 🙂
I was looking for a board and was about to choose Never Summer Proto Type Two which sounded exactly like what I wanted from the board – playful, good for flat tricks, switch friendly and at the same time pretty good for carving, stable at high speed, on the cat tracks and in moguls.
The thing is that recently I came across YES Greats 2019 and review say it’s an amazing board. It basically seems like NS PT2 and YES Greats are equally good in all the aspects that important for me, but I really confused as for how two boards with different profiles: Hybrid Rocker in NS PT2 vs Hybrid Camber in YES Greats can perform the same in all mentioned aspects.
What difference will I feel if riding these two boards?
Appreciate your time,
–Andrey
Hi Andrey
Thanks for your message.
Whilst the PT2 & the Greats are both different boards, they’re ultimately good at the same kinds of riding. And if you’re looking for an asym for what you’re describing then these two plus the GNU Rider’s Choice are the best that I’ve ridden.
The main thing I would say between the 2 in terms of feel is that the Proto Type Two has an ever so slightly loose feel to it, whereas the Greats is a solidly stable feel. If you think of a scale of 1-5, with 1 being the loosest and 5 being a completely locked in feel, and a 3 being “stable” then the Greats would be a 3. It’s stable but not locked in. The PT2 would be a 2.5. It’s certainly not an overly loose feeling board, IMO, but it’s got that subtle bit of looseness when you want it. But once you get up on an edge and rail a carve on it, the camber is the dominant feel in that board.
A couple of things that aren’t in the ratings either – like buttering, the Greats is a board that’s just a little easier to butter than the PT2. The Greats is also better in icy conditions. The PT2 is not bad but the Greats just that little bit better.
Also the Greats is a wider board. This is one of the reasons I’ve given the Greats a slightly better score for jumps. Just because it has that wider landing platform.
Also both boards have a different feel in terms of their turn radius. I enjoyed both equally on a carve, but that’s not to say that they were the same on a carve. They both have their own distinct feel.
So yeah, whilst their similar in terms of performance, they are different feeling boards. But they’re both suited to similar types of riding, IMO.
Hope this makes sense
Thank you, Nate. It helped a lot. As long as my role model is Ryan Knapton it makes more sense to go with YES as more traditional profile option.
Thanks for making my buying decision!
You’re very welcome Andrey. Hope you have a great season!
Hi Nate. Nice website, lot’s of info :). I’m currently searching for a new board. I have a ride agenda 2016 in which I learn to snowboard and now I would say I’m an Intermediate Level 5. I looking for something a little bit more stiff, with more pop and more stable at high speed but also playfull, in which I can pratice ridding switched, small jumps, butters.
I normally try to ride at least a week per year and last year I got like 15 days in total in the snow. I spend most of the time in groomers, not really looking for pow or park bords.
Based on my search and reviews, my last for the next board resumes to:
– Capita DOA
– Yes Typo
– Salomon assassin.
Which one do you recommend? Any other option in mind?
About the size of the board, my bot size is 9.5 US, 78kg, 187 cm. Which should be the right size for me?
Thanks in advance and keep up the good work.
BR!
Hi André
Thanks for the message.
I think both the Typo and Assassin would work well for you. The DOA is a little more aggressive and given that you want to keep things playful, I think the Typo and Assassin would be better options.
Size-wise, in general, I would say to look at a length range of around 158-160. And width wise, around 250mm at the waist minimum, depending on binding angles. If you ride with a duck stance or similar (e.g. +15/-15 – something with a reasonable angle on the back foot) then you could go narrower than that too. Definitely don’t go wide with 9.5s.
So for the boards mentioned, the best sizes for you, IMO, would be:
~ Typo: 158
~ Assassin: 159
They would be the best combination of width/length, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, so I weight 220lbs wear size 11.5 boots, I ride 12 -12, will the yes greats be a good board for me?
Hello Nate!
I do spend so much time on your site! I love it. All the content is so valuable and well explained. The questions and the answers provided make this site a real wonderful data knowledge.
However I try to find my lover board… but I cannot decide yet which one will make my heart bumping harder.
I ‘m riding for now more than10 years, 1 week each year in Alpes and always rent boards without knowing what I got really under my feet! Now, I really want to get mine!
Based on description, I’m right on the border between intermediate and advanced. I’m 186cm (6,1), 78kg (172), 11 foot size. I spend my time on groomers but i have the opportunity I go outside to jump, rotate (based on my level…), enjoy puff, crash :). I also go to park to perform small medium jumps. I also love carving, and try to be natural in switch.
Last year I had a full rocker, that was fun, but I clearly feel unstable on it when I speedup. So I think a hybrid rocker or camber will better suit me. I think a medium flex will be ok for all mountain (No more 5/10). So here the boards I identified:
– Bataleon evil Twin. 159w. Benefits is the twin shape, camber and the TBT for catchfree. I don’t know your point of view about that board, I afraid to be trapped by the marketing. But look great on the paper.
-NEVER summer prototype 2. 158x size? Its hybrid rocker and it’s asymmetrical shape attack me. A lot of review point its quality. However purchase that board in France seems not be easy.
– Yes The Greats. But no wide size… So with my 11 … could be problematic and I have Nitro boots (Anthem).
What is your point of view? Do you have advice or other proposal?
Thanks a lot!
Gabriel
Hi Gabriel
Thanks for your message.
I don’t currently demo Bataleon boards, so I can’t give your any first hand experience with that board. But from what I hear it’s more of a park board and wouldn’t be as good as the other 2 outside of the park. But again, I couldn’t say for sure having never ridden it myself.
The other 2 would be great options, IMO, based on what you’re describing.
The YES Greats 2019 model is actually wider now. They’ve incorporated the Mid-Bite on it that they use with their Standard and Ghost boards. So, as long as you go for the 2019 model it’s definitely suitable, IMO.
In terms of size, for this type of board, and for your specs and ability, I’d say anything around 157-159 would be a good length for you.
For width, I would say anything between 254mm at the waist and 264mm at the waist. This is assuming a US11 Boot Size and also assumiung +15/-15 binding angles. These angles are recommended for the Proto Type Two and Greats, since they are assymetrical.
So for the Proto Type Two, I agree that the 158X is your best size.
For the YES Greats, the 159 would be your best bet but you could also ride the 156, if you felt you wanted to go shorter. But this is only if you get the 2019 model.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Great site! Thanks for providing all the great info!
I’m looking at getting a new board. Am 5’10”, 180lbs & size 9 boot. We tend to ride a lot of piste but love hitting the park, boxes, rails, natural hits, etc as well. Like a bit of off piste when we get the chance as well.
At the moment I’m sold on the NS PT2 from reading all of the reviews across the web and on your site and am thinking of going for a 157 based on my stats.
Would you say this board is suitable? I’d say I’m an intermediate rider.
What bindings would you pair up with this board as well?
Appreciate any help you can give!
Hi Ian
Thanks for your message.
It sounds like an all-mountain-freestyle board is a good option for what you’re describing – and the PT2 is one of the best, IMO (as you can tell from this post!).
So yeah, I think it would definitely be suitable for you. And the 157 would be the best size as well, IMO. I wouldn’t go any longer than that for this board for you – and the 154 is getting too small, IMO. So, yeah the 157 would be best, I would say.
In terms of bindings, I would suggest something from the following list:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Some other options outside that list are:
~ Burton Malavita
~ Union Strata (will be new for 2019 if you’re willing to wait for 2019 models to come out)
Hope this helps
Awesome, thanks for the re-assurance Nate.
I’ll take a look at the bindings now.
Thanks for making buying a snowboard much easier!
You’re very welcome Ian. Thanks for using the website!
Great guide buddy! Love your site!
J
Hi Jack
Thanks for your comments – appreciate it!
I’m strongly considering the Proto Type Two but question which size is right as I’m unsure of my real preference. I am 6 ft. 215 lbs with a size 12 boot. What would be the big differences in ride between the 161X and the 164X. Would the 161X be more butterable for my frame than the 164X? My wife is learning how to snowboard, so I am certainly all over the mountain when not with her but definitely looking to play around more with switch and butters and natural features when tagging along with her during her progression.
Hi Matt
Thanks for your message.
For you, I would go for 161X for this board. I would put you on around a 163, 164 all-mountain size, but for this board you can size down a bit, IMO. And given that you want to be able to ride it slow and play around with it a bit, and work on your butters, then I think the 161X will be better for that. Being shorter will be more agile at slower speeds – and yeah easier to butter too. And it’s certainly not overly short for you, IMO – so should also handle when you’re exploring the rest of the mountain too. Both sizes would work for you, but I would be leaning towards the 161X.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate, sounds about what I was leaning toward in my head, thanks for being so receptive to questions and bouncing knowledge off.
You’re very welcome Matt. Hope you enjoy your new deck and the rest of the season!
Hi Nate,
You helped me recently pick out a board for myself (Rossi Frenemy, thanks for all the advice!) and now I’m looking for some help for my boyfriend’s new board. He’s an intermediate (bordering on advanced) level rider who’s interested in trying out the park, and has been riding switch quite frequently. He’s look for something he can take to learn some basics at the park, but still use to jet around. We also board in icy conditions, so something that can handle that would be great.
He’s 5’9 160-165lbs, currently has ThirtyTwo lashed boots size 10.5 from 2010. He’s looking for either hybrid or traditional camber board, and a true twin for riding switch. What would you recommend for him?
He’s very interested in Rome boards – in particular the factory rocker, but open to suggestions. He’s also unsure if he would need a wide board given his boot size.
Thanks in advance!
Katie
Hi Katie
Thanks for your message.
Definitely sounds like all-mountain-freestyle is the way to go for him, based no what you’re describing.
In terms of length, I would say something around a 155-157 for an all-mountain freestyle board for his specs.
In terms of width, with 10.5s it’s right on the cuff. It mostly comes down to binding angles. If he rides something like a +15/-15 (i.e. with a good angle on the back binding) then something as narrow as 250mm at the waist is doable. 252mm and up to be on the safe side. But if he rides with a really straight back foot (i.e. 0-3 degrees) then a minimum of 258mm is recommended, in which case he’d need to go wide.
I don’t currently test Rome boards, but based on the specs, it looks like it would be a suitable option. I can’t really comment on how good it is in icy conditions, but based on other reviews and comments it sounds like Rome boards are pretty good in hard/icy conditions. Maybe not the best, but up there.
The best option in hard/icy conditions from this list is the GNU Rider’s Choice, IMO – but the Proto Type Two, YES Greats and the Salomon Assassin Pro (or Salomon Assassin which might be a better option, just that it’s probably a little easier to get started in the park with than the Assassin Pro) are also pretty good – as good as the Rome Factory Rocker – as far as I can tell.
The Lib Tech TRS and the Niche Aether are also options in terms of being very good in icy conditions (up there with the Rider’s Choice, IMO).
Hope this helps
Oh yeah and how’s the Frenemy going for you?
Hey man, thanks for a great site. Really awesome!
I’m looking to replace my 10yo traditional camber board (nitro volume 156). I think im looking for freestyle allmountain, that still has great powder float.
What I do most is trying to get offpist when ever possible, in and out of trees and jumping in and out of the pist – but only if snow is good. Otherwise doing butters, ollies, spins on the groomers.
I’m confident in my riding skills, I’m 65kg and boot size 9. Could you help point me in a direction?
Thanks for any help man!
Hi Mark
Thanks for your message.
Based on what you’re describing, I think you’re on the right track looking at an all-mountain-freestyle board. The biggest downside, is that they aren’t generally that great for riding powder – but they definitely do the job and if you’re not riding big mountain type stuff, then they work, you’ve just usually need to put a bit more effort in keeping the tip and tail lifted.
But if you’re riding switch in powder, then sometimes an all-mountain-freestyle can be better – because things like freeride boards are made for riding powder in one direction – so riding switch in powder is usually harder on something like that than it would be on a twin – even if that twin isn’t very good at riding pow in one direction, if that makes sense.
I found the Outerspace Living to have a longer tip and tail compared to a lot of other all-mountain-freestyle boards* (which I think is one reason why Capita call it a freestyle/freeride blend). So I found it a great board for riding powder in both directions. Still not going to be like a setback tapered freeride board in your main direction, but great for going both ways in pow. I also found the Rider’s Choice a little better in powder than others.
* – e.g. the Proto Type Two and YES Greats have very blunted tip and tail – so that along with being centered and true twin, doesn’t make them great for powder).
But in saying that, you can definitely still ride something like the PT2 and Greats in powder, just a bit harder work in deeper pow – and they’d definitely work well for everything else you’re describing. In terms of size, if you can let me know your height as well and I can give you my opinion on what sizes would work best.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the quick response!
I think you are right, a freestyle board that is slightly geared toward powder is a good choice. How would you compare the two, Outerspace Living vs. Riders Choice?
I’m 175-177 cm
Hi Mark
I would say that the Outerspace Living is more of a stable feel and the Rider’s Choice more of a looser feel, underfoot. So, what you like the sound of more in that respect might be a more deciding factor. Also, I’d say that the Outerspace Living is a little better at speed and for carving.
In terms of size, I would say something around 154 to 156 would be a good range to look at for you. So for the Rider’s Choice I’d say 154.5 and for the Outerspace Living 154 or 156. Since you’re used to a 156, then maybe leaning that way – also, given that you’re used to a full camber 156, the OSL at 156 is already going to feel a little smaller, most likely. Otherwise, I’d probably be leaning towards the 154 for your specs.
Hope this helps
Thanks for the quick response!
I’m not doing that much switch, mostly when landing or taking off small jumps. Maybe I should look more into general all-mountain boards and find one that is flexible enough for butters/spins? I’m in love with the graphics on the Jones Mountain Twins, but it sounds like it is not a very flexible board 🙁
The capita Outerspace Living does seems like a very good call though, went through a few reviews of it! Everybody seems to love it and says it tons of fun. Regarding size, 65kg without gear, 177cm height, size 42 boots (9-9,5 US) – Which size would you suggest?
Thanks again, it is super helpfull!
Hi Mark
You’re very welcome.
I’d say 154-156 for you generally, so that gives you the option of the 154 and 156 in the OSL. Since you’re used to a full cambered 156, I would be leaning towards the 156 (as per my other response). Otherwise I would be leaning towards 154. Both sizes would work though.
The Mountain Twin is what I would rate as a 6/10 flex overall. It’s rated as a 7/10 but it didn’t feel that stiff to me. I think where it is a little stiffer is between the feet, but tip and tail aren’t that stiff so can still butter on it.
But if you’re looking for some softer all-mountain options you could look at the Never Summer Snowtrooper, YES Typo and Burton Process Flying V.
hi nate,
first of all I have to apologize for my English. Im from Germany so not a native speaker.
So, im in the mountains for maybe overall 10 days a year, mostly in the Austrian alps.
my actual board is now more than 10 years old, so its time for something new.
I really like the never summer from what you say about it. But does it fit to my riding style?
most of the time Im riding the regular piste, carving, doing little jumps and tricks. im not that much into parks or backcountry.
also, for what I found, the never summer has in the widest version a 254mm waist width but my shoe has size US 12. I ride a -15°/+15° ankle. Do you think this will fit??
Dankeschön
Will appreciate any help.
Greetings from Germany
Hi Nick
It sounds like the Proto Type Two would be ideal for what you’re describing. Certainly something all-mountain-freestyle would suit you very well.
The 254mm waist width will be too narrow for you but the Proto Type Two also comes in wide sizes – it’s called the Proto Type Two X. The “X” is Never Summer’s way of saying “wide”. Often the wide sizes are in a different product page for Never Summer boards, which is probably why you didn’t see the wide sizes. The following wide sizes are available for the PT2:
153X (258mm waist)
155X (261mm waist)
158X (263mm waist)
161X (265mm waist)
164X (267mm waist)
In terms of waist width, considering your have +15/-15 angles, you should fit on any of those except for the 153X.
Which length you go with depends on your height, weight, ability level and your personal preference. Generally speaking, it’s a good idea, in my opinion, to size down a little bit from what you’re used to with this board – just because it has a large effective edge, relative to the overall length. If you’d like a length recommendation I would be happy to provide one, if you can tell me your height, weight, ability level, and the length you usually ride.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, ever since hiring a Proto HD I’m sold on NS! That’s a not a rock hard rule but I do like the idea. I’m mid 50’s and have been riding for 20yrs or so. I’m intermediate to advanced and pretty much focus on 3 things given the opportunity – carving groomers, small natural hits & flicking through tight tree lines. The park is used for a short-cut to somewhere else, switch is a temporary situation until I’m back going forwards! Old knees mean I appreciate flex and anything that smooths out choppy conditions.
I’m 5ft 7 and 160lbs and usually hire 154cm. My own board is a vintage Option SuperCap but mostly on hire boards.
I was looking at getting a Proto Type 2 or a Snowtrooper. The Snowtrooper looks good but based on carving in particular + playfulness the T2 appears the best for me. You agree?
Thoughts much appreciated and indeed if you think I’m missing out by not looking at other NS boards then please shout.
Thanks,
Hi Pete
I think you’re on the right track looking at Proto Type 2 and Snowtrooper. Those are your two best options with Never Summer, IMO, based on what you’re describing.
Snowtrooper is what I would call an all-mountain board and has a bit of a setback, but it’s still something you can ride switch – and if you only ever go into switch quickly, definitely fine in that respect.
The Snowtrooper is softer flexing and has a more easy going camber profile – more subtle camber and more rocker in there. The Proto Type Two has a more aggressive camber profile (more camber and less rocker) and is a little stiffer – but still just medium flexing so definitely not overly stiff.
The Snowtrooper is a little easier going and a more casual ride, I would say, but the Proto Type Two has a more dynamic feel – it’s a little snappier and better on carve and at speed. It’s a little more responsive too – a little quicker edge-to-edge, so it’s got that for the trees too.
The Snowtrooper is a bit better in powder.
So, overall, I think the PT2 would be your best bet, but the Snowtrooper would definitely work, especially if you want to go a little softer/more casual – but overall I’d say PT2.
In terms of size, 154cm would be a good size for you, especially if that’s what you’re used to. For an all-mountain size for you, I would say around 156, but for this board it’s definitely a good idea to go a little shorter and shorter also feels more playful. And the fact that you’re used to 154. I’d say the 157 would definitely be too long for you for this board. I would even go 152 before 157 for you for this board (assuming it would be wide enough for your boots) but I think 154 would be the best bet.
For the Snowtrooper, I’d still say 154 but in that case you could get away with the 156, but I wouldn’t go to 152 for that board.
Also, if you’re not sure width-wise, I can let you know my opinion on widths, if you can let me know your boot size.
Hope this helps
I’m US size 9, Nate
Hi Pete
Thanks for the extra info. Both the 152 (248mm waist width) and the 154 (250mm waist-width) would work well with size 9s, so that’s all good there.
High praise for the Capita Outerspace living – on the beginner list and rated highly for freestyle/all mountain. Ive seen good reviews for this board last year as well. Ive got a new Rome Factory Rocker (last years – it was a bargain) this is a great all round board for buggering about on, much better than my old stiff Ride Havoc which is now over 10 years old and practically vintage. I like my Rome board a lot and look forward to taking it on holiday in the spring.
Hi D
Thanks for your input and comments on the Rome Factory Rocker.
Yeah the Outerspace Living was one of the big surprises for me this year (the first time I had demoed it), especially given the price. It’s one of those boards that’s easy enough to ride but also has good performance. It’s not something I would say is for a complete beginner, but for a high end beginner or an athletic or big guy beginner it’s a good beginner choice, in addition to being a great little all-mountain-freestyle ride.
Hope you have an awesome season on your Factory Rocker!
Hi Nate,
I need advice about board.I`m looking for All Mountain Freestyle board. I love hammering the whole mountain,carving,jumps,butters and powder when I can.My size is 178cm,76kg and boots size 44 EU or 10US.What you suggest,and what size of that bords will fit best for me.Thanks in advance and best regards!
I`m interest for : Salomon Assassin 2017
Capita Outerspace Living
Capita Doa
Hi Toni
Thanks for our message.
In terms of length first of all. I would say that a good all-mountain size for you would be roughly 159. But I personally like to take off a couple of centimeters for an all-mountain-freestyle board. So something like 156, 157 would be a good size for you I think. But it also depends on what you’re used to riding and preference. So if you can let me know what size you usually ride and I can see if we need to adjust for that.
So for the boards you’ve mentioned that would put you on:
~ Salamon Assassin 2017: 155 or 158 – it depends on what you currently ride as to which would be the best – also it depends on what you put more emphasis on – if you’re willing to sacrifice a little in terms of butters, park etc, and want more performance for carving, speed and in powder, then the 158. If other way around or if you’re used to a shorter board, then the 155 might be more suitable.
~ Capita Outerspace Living: 156 (but again as with the above, you could also consider 158)
~ Capita DOA: 156 (I would stick to 156 for this board – it’s quite aggressive.
The DOA would be the most aggressive of the 3, so if that’s something you like the sound of you could go in that direction. If you’re looking for something more playful than aggressive – then the other two would be better bets – they’re not like super playful or anything (can still put in a good carve) but just not as aggressive as the DOA.
You can check out my full reviews on each board at the link below for more info if you’d like:
>>Capita DOA
>>Capita Outerspace Living
>>Salomon Assassin
Hope this helps
Hi,
I’m looking to get my husband a snowboard for Christmas. We typically spend our time in Lake Tahoe snowboarding. He’s 6’, 210 lbs and wears a size 10.5-11 shoes. We are pretty intermediate riders and don’t do too much crazy stuff, just like riding down the mountain. What would be a good board to get him that’s not crazy expensive?
Hi Christie
Thanks for your message – and what an awesome gift!
In terms of length, something around 161 to 162 for those specs, the style of riding your describing and that ability level.
In terms of width, assuming he gets into 10.5 boots, then going for something around 258mm would be the safest bet – but depending on his binding angles, could go narrower – down to around 252mm (which would open up more regular width options) if he rides something like a +15/-15. If he rides with a straighter back foot (like 0 degrees, 3 degrees or something like that), then it’s safer to go a little wider.
Based on what you describe re style/ability, I think something all-mountain would be a good way to go, in which case check out the link below:
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
In terms of price, the Mountain Twin, Rossignol One, Slash Brainstorm, Burton Process Flying V (I wouldn’t go for the Process Camber, just because it’s probably a bit too aggressive of a feel for what you’re describing), YES Typo and Ride Wild Life are all under $500, with the Brainstorm, Typo, and Wild Life being the least expensive. If you wanted to go a little cheaper again, then the YES Libre (similar to the YES Typo) is cheaper again ($369) but still a good option. The Never Summer Snowtrooper would also be a good option for your husband, IMO, but it’s a little more expensive ($519).
Of course if you can find a past season’s model on any of these, then they would be cheaper again (and most models don’t change too much in just one season – but sometimes they do).
If you can find out your husbands binding angles, then I could make a more precise recommendation size-wise on some of these. Otherwise, I would try to go at least 256mm at the waist. But don’t go too wide as that can make a board harder to turn on.
I know this is a lot of info but I hope it makes sense and helps with your decision – if you see a deal on something specfic and want my recommendation, then let me know – and also if you find out his binding angles.
Oh yeah – and all-mountain-freestyle (like the boards on this list) are also definitely options if you’re not likely to be going off-groomer too often – I think the Capita Outerspace Living could also work well for your needs (and is really reasonably priced). That would be the most suitable off this list, IMO both in terms of price and in terms of suitability for the style you describe.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Great overviews of some of the boards! I’m looking to get myself a new board for the upcoming season. I’ve been riding the 156cm YES GDOH since 2011 and have absolutely loved it! It really fits my aggressive yet playful riding style. My dilemma is, do I stick with what I know and love (The Greates) or do I try something new and different (Proto Type Two). Most of the time I spend on my board is teaching, usually intermediate and advanced groups, but also sometimes beginners too. So I spend a lot of time on the groomers carving hard, riding switch, and jibbing/buttering, but as soon as I have a day (or half-day) off I B-line it to the powder. Which of the two would you recommend between The Greates and the Proto Type Two?
Really appreciate any advice!
Sam
Hi Sam
Thanks for your message.
I find it really hard to choose between these two. That’s not to say that they feel the same – as they certainly don’t but performance wise they are both amazing decks. Unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to ride these two one after the other, but that would be a great test.
I didn’t ever ride the GDOH, but from what I can see it was a fully rockered board. So, in terms of which will feel more similar to the GDOH, I think both will feel quite different. The Greats will have more similarities, being the same brand and very roughly a continuation of the GDOH – but it’s got a hybrid camber profile (camber between and under the feet and rocker tip to tail), which will feel a lot different. The PT2 on the other hand has rocker between the feet, then camber underfoot and to tip and tail.
Both are asymmetrical (which it looks like the GDOH was too) so you’ll still get that asym ride. It’s really hard to pick one of them.
In terms of powder, they are both ok in powder but not great. But I don’t think either one of them was better or worse than the other – so that’s not really a tie breaker either!
I think the only thing really to think about is – do you like the sound of rocker between the feet and camber tip and tail or camber between the feet and rocker tip and tail.
The other way you could choose is by going for what the best size is. If you wanted to stick to 156, then the Greats – which will also have a similar sidecut and the same waist width as you current board and very similar tip and tail width. But the 157 PT2 is pretty similar size wise – with a shallower sidecut but a slightly wider waist and wider tip and tail. Size-wise that would give slightly more surface area for powder, which is one thing there.
Not sure if this helps with your decision but hopefully it gives you a bit more to go off. But I don’t think you can make a bad call between those two!
Hi Nate,
Absolutely loving the detail and attention you put into your reviews. Your guides are awesome!
I’m 181cm, 85kg and a (US) 10.5 boot.
I love hammering the whole mountain, cutting through trees and hitting any natural humps and jumps (along with whatever powder) I can find. I currently ride a 2014 Salomon Assassin but I am loving the idea of a Never Summer Proto Type Two to try something asymmetrical. I was just wondering what size you would suggest?
Thanks for your time!
Jack
Hi Jack
Thanks for your message.
Based on your specs and for this board, I think the 157 would be a great length for you. And, assuming you use binding angles like +15/-15 or +12/-12 on it, then the waist should be just right too.
I know you are above the “weight recommendations” for the 157, but I think for this board and how you describe your style of riding, the 157 is the better bet. I rode the 157 and have very similar stats (183cm, 83kg, 10 boot) and that was just right. I’d say that the 160 would have felt too long for me. This board has a long effective edge compared to its overall length.
Hope this helps
What’s your opinion on the capita doa for all mountain freestyle? What do people mean when they say it’s really aggressive? I have shoe size us 12 95kg and 6’4 what size board should I get?
Hi Renato
By aggressive, it means that the board likes to ride fast and hard and it’s usually pretty unforgiving of skidded turns. It’s something that you’ve got to be on your game when riding it. But you get the rewards of a fast poppy board that loves to carve and ride fast.
And yeah, definitely an all-mountain-freestyle ride – just that it’s not a playful all-mountain freestyle ride – it’s aggressive. You can check out my review of the DOA and my Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain Freestyle snowboards list at the links below for more details.
~ Capita DOA Review
~ Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
In terms of size, for you, for this board, I would say the 161W for sure. I’d potentially even go a little longer, but that’s the longest this board goes. But in saying that, I found this board to be better a little shorter than your normal size, so I think that size would work for you, if this ends up being the board you go with.
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate,
Great reviews, really helpful to us out here!
I’m looking for a new board for this winter but am having trouble deciding what to go for, as it seems are many others.
I’ve got the Greats and Proto T2 on my list, as well as the Space Case, Funslinger and Happy Place.
My riding is about 60 percent switch, buttering, side hits, some park and pipe. In between I like to go fast and lay down some carves. I also want a board that has good pop for ollies, etc. I’d use a different board for any proper powder riding.
Which of these would best for speed and pop but still nice for buttering?
Thanks,
Steve
Hi Steven
From those I’d definitely say either the NS Proto Type Two or YES Greats. They seem to fit what you’re describing really well.
The Space Case is an option too, but you’d lose a little bit in terms of speed and carving. But gain back a little in jibbing. But I think on balance, the Greats or Proto T2 are the better balance of specs for you.
The Funslinger is still a pretty good carver but gets a bit squirelly when picking up good speed and the Happy Place would fall behind the other options in terms of speed and carving. They’d both pick up again for jibbing and maybe a little for butterability (but I found the Greats and Proto pretty good for buttering too) but again, I think the first two options are the best for you.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for the quick response.
Awesome advice and site.
I like the Greats for having camber. Does the rocker section of the t2 make it less stable at speed and give it less pop? Or is this what makes it OK for buttering?
I’m currently on a 2012 Burton Process camber and have no trouble buttering this. How would these 2 boards compare for buttering?
Hi Steven
The T2 does have a fair bit of camber – it’s just that the Camber sits in different areas, than with the Greats. The Greats has camber between the feet and under the bindings, and rocker towards tip and tail – whereas the T2 has rocker between the bindings, then camber that starts under the bindings and goes to tip and tail (with a bit of flat transition area before the contact points.
The T2 has Never Summer’s ripsaw camber – which basically means that the camber is both more pronounced and the camber sections are longer than their other boards. This gives it more pop and more stability.
Having said that, I’d say that the T2 is probably on the looser side of stable – but still pretty stable feeling – but that rocker between the feet does give it a slightly looser feel.
The Greats camber profile would probably feel more similar to your current board in terms of the Camber profile – certainly not the same but closer than the T2, IMO.
Both of these boards are easier to butter than the Process Camber, in my experience – so if you have no trouble buttering the Process, then you’ll enjoy buttering either of these boards.
Hope this gives you more to go off. Also check out my reviews of these two boards if you haven’t already, just realized I haven’t linked to their full reviews from the Top 5 post.
>>YES Greats Review
>>Never Summer Proto Type 2 Review
Thanks again. Really useful advice.
Great review on here so thanks for the link.
You’re very welcome Steve. Hope you have an awesome season!
Apologies if I sent my message twice. Not sure how things are published. Haha
Hi Leo
Thanks for your message. Only got it once 🙂
Can you let me know your weight and height. These (especially weight) play a big part in board length – then I can make a more accurate recommendation.
NATE!!!,
First off, I totally dig your site. You offer awesome critique and great advice. Well done man.
To my question now…..i wanted your recommendation on board sizing. I’m looking into getting the Never Summer Proto2 for this upcoming season. Hearing nothing but good things. Boarding 7 plus years…. I would say I’m a confident intermediate-ish rider. Haha. Currently been riding an elder model 157/158cm GNU carbon fiber, with 12in Burton ions, and flow bindings. The smaller rocker board was fun but thinking I want/ need to go bigger. Now I love riding aggressive ie: carving moguls, double blacks, off piste, fresh powder, etc. On that note, I really want to beef up my buttering and kicker skills. What do you suggest for new board size? Width? Also, I was kinda looking into the Brainstorm. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated. Thanks again Mate.
Respect,
Leo
Hi Nate, or the typo instead of the greats. Are they similar in terms of flex?
Best Alex
Hi Alex
Some say you need a mirror duck (e.g. +15/-15, +12/-12 etc) for asym but I’ve ridden asym boards without a full duck stance and they were fine. I think a +15/-12 would be fine and moving from a +15/-12 to a +15/-15 or +12/-12 wouldn’t be a big shift either. I think either way it would work for you.
But yeah the Typo would be another option – it’s like a slightly more beefed up Basic. It’s got a small setback stance so it’s not entirely centered, which is why i have it as an all-mountain board as opposed to an all-mountain-freestyle board – but it’s definitely bordering on being all-mountain-freestyle.
I’d say the flex of the Typo and the Greats are very similar. YES rates the 2017 Typo as slightly stiffer than the 2017 Greats but I’d say they feel about the same. And they now rate the 2018 Typo the same as the 2018 Greats so I think that’s more in line with reality.
Hi Nate,
I can get a Yes Basic or a Yes the greats for a good price. The greats only 80 bucks above the Basic. I am only riding 2 weeks a year in the alps. I am a intermediate to advance rider. which one would you recommend? Is the greats much stiffer or harder to press for butters…?
Cheers
Alex
Hi Alex
Since you are intermediate + rider, I would go for the Greats personally. The Greats is a little bit stiffer but not hugely. I’d say 4/10 flex for Basic and 5/10 flex for Greats. And I found it nice to butter on. The flex in the tip and tail are softer than between the bindings I think, so that helps with buttering.
It’s an Asym board – which aren’t for everyone but personally I love them. Great for riding switch and for turning/carving in general too. But you should definitely ride centered and with as close to a mirror duck stance as possible (e.g. +15/-15 binding angles). If you prefer binding angles that are quite different on front foot and back foot and prefer a setback stance, then an Asym won’t be ideal – but otherwise it only makes the board better, in my experience.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for the fast reply. I am not riding duck stance. I ride + 15/-12.
I never tried asym before. Does it still work with my stance or should I go with the basic instead? Thanks
Hi Nate. I’m curious about the carving and turning ability of the gnu Eco choice and the riders choice. Is there any difference between the two in terms of carving and turning ability or are they the same board just different materials. Also, can they handle a decent carve or will they wash out. Thanks.
Hi Dan
There’s very little difference between the Eco Choice and Rider’s Choice. Some subtle difference in materials but I doubt you’d notice any difference riding them – not in terms of turning/carving.
I wouldn’t say they’d be my first choice as a carving board if that was the main thing you did and you really liked to bomb and get nice and low on your carves. But for a more freestyle oriented board it carves decently.
Thanks Nate 🙂
Hi Nate,
I’m a progressing beginner, able to link turns and learning carving and small land tricks. I like cruising too so I’m assuming all mountain? I’ve already bought the Yes Basic 2017 158cm but I am worried I have gone too large for my stats and riding. My current weight is 80kg, and 5’11 (180cm) with 10 US shoe size (not sure exact snow boot though). My weight can fluctuate from 75kg-85kg due to sport requirements but usually 80kg during winter. Should I keep the 158cm or swap for the 155cm. Preferably I would like to keep 1 board for a while as snowboarding is an expensive hobby but if that 3cm difference will impact my progression than I can swap to 155cm. What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi Joshua
I think the 158cm should be fine for you. If you were a complete beginner, then maybe 155cm would have been better. But it sounds like you’ve advanced enough that you could handle the 158cm. And that’s about the size you’ll never need to go longer than, so you can keep for as long as you want.
I think the 155cm would be a slightly faster progression than the 158cm. But I don’t think the 158cm will be so long that it stunts your progress or hurts your technique – just a slightly steeper learning curve.
And from what you’re describing, I think the YES Basic is a very suitable board for your ability and developing style.
Hope this helps.
Hey Nate!
First of all I’d like to thank you for all of these reviews, they’re so technical and give a good insight on every board and riding style, it’s awesome!
Now onto my question,
I’ve been riding an entry-level snowboard suited for all-mountain (Salomon Sight 153) for the last 3 seasons and I feel like I am ready to “step it up” a little bit. My riding has gotten a lot better and I would define it exactly as all-mountain-freestyle, just because while what I enjoy the most is hitting natural jumps off-piste and getting over powder now and then, I tend to be on the groomed tracks as well so I need something that grips properly to some icy tracks while not sacrificing too much speed and maneuverability on the process. Then again making the whole mountain feel like a park is what I am looking into the most, so I would need a board that is agile, poppy and kinda soft. I am working on my switch riding at the moment.
I am about 5’7 feet (173 cm) and 140 pounds (63kg), so what size of board would you suggest? As I told you I’ve been riding a 153 board and feel like I would need something slightly shorter, do you agree?
I’ve looked into the boards you listed and the one that caught my eye is the Capita DOA, and I wonder whether it would feel a bit too aggressive as in like hard to master kind of board. Remember that I am no pro and still have big room for improvement in mostly every aspect of snowboarding.
The other board I have in mind is the Lib Tech TRS, which as you listed seems a lot easier to handle and is an overall very complete board.
Which board should I torn to? Maybe some other board you have in mind? Also again which size? 148? or would that be too short?
Again thanks in advance for any input on these questions and sorry for all the details given! Keep up the hard work, really appreciate this helpful website!
Hey Alfonso
Thanks for your message – and thanks for the details, it makes my job easier if I have all the details.
First of all, in terms of sizing, I think something around a 149cm to 151cm, generally speaking, would work well for you. Each board is different but that would be a general range I would look at. That’s based on the fact that you want something more all-mountain-freestyle and based on your weight/height and ability.
The DOA is a great board. It is a little bit more challenging and can be unforgiving if you’re not on your game – but if you can tame it, it’s a great weapon! I definitely wouldn’t say it’s the hardest board in the world to ride either. It’s still a medium flexing board and it’s not like super-catchy like some boards – but it’s a little bit more challenging than the boards in this list. I wouldn’t say it’s a no go for you but the only other thing is that it’s not as good as something like the TRS in hard/icy conditions, so that would be the other factor.
I think anything in this list would be suitable – they’re all either good or excellent in hard/icy conditions and they are all sort the style you’re describing well. If you feel you need excellent in icy conditions then I would say the following.
~ Lib Tech TRS
~ YES Basic
~ Niche Aether
~ GNU Rider’s Choice/Eco Choice
But if you think that really good in those conditions is enough, then the YES Greats and Never Summer Proto Type Two would be great options. If you’re not sure about asymmetrical twins, then that would leave the TRS, Aether & Basic. I really like asymmetrical boards but some people are put off by them.
In terms of sizing for the boards I’ve mentioned I would go with:
~ Lib Tech TRS – 151cm (247mm waist)
~ YES Basic – 149cm (248mm waist)
~ Niche Aether – 153cm (254mm waist) – this is the shortest it comes in so may not be suitable if you were wanting to size down a bit
~ GNU Rider’s Choice – 151.5cm (251mm waist)
~ YES The Greats – 152cm (247mm waist)
~ Never Summer Proto Type 2 – 152cm (248mm waist)
I am guessing that any of the waist widths there will be fine given the 153cm Sight has a 246mm waist width. But if you want to let me know your boot size I can also give you my opinion on an appropriate width range. But I’m pretty sure you’ll be fine on any of those.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate,
love your site! So I’m currently considering whether getting the Capita Outdoor Living 156 or 158. I’m 5’10” to 5’11”, 155lbs with a size 10.5 shoes and can’t decide between the two. The smaller has the narrow width of 250, the other one is 253. What would you do? Let me know what you think, would love to hear your thougths on this.
Thanks.
Malte
Hi Malte
Thanks for your message.
Just to clarify, we are talking about the Outdoor Living and not the Outerspace Living. The Outdoor Living was 2016 and previous and the Outerspace Living is the 2017 model. The Outerspace Living is a bit of different board – it’s the progression of the Outdoor Living but a coupele of things changed.
Not that that makes a difference on what size to go for.
I think that you could go either 156cm or 158cm. I would say the 156cm would be the better size for you though – except that I think with 10.5 boots you would be better on the slightly wider version. Though in all honesty it won’t be much wider.
If you have low profile boots, then I would say definitely get the 156cm but if you don’t then the 158cm might be the safer bet. If you don’t have boots yet, or are looking to get new ones, then I would say to go for low profile boots (Adidas, Burton or Ride are good bets). This would allow you to get on the 156 Outdoor Living and would also give you more options for boards in the future.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
thanks a lot for your considerations, really appreciate it! I do have boots already and unfortunately they are not low profile ones I think. I read about the progression of the Outdoor Living to the Outerspace Living but found a really good used one of the previous year’s model. So if I remember correctly it changed from a flat profile to a more hybrid camber one, how does that affect usability in the park and on all mountain terrain? Is it more poppy, snappy and catchy or are they about equally suitable? I really like the Capita boards, also found the Thunderstick which is a little bit wider. Which one would you suggest under these conditions or do you have a completely different recommendation of roughly the same profile? Once again thanks a lot for your help and keep up the great work!
Malte
Hi Malte
Yeah it changed from flat to hybrid camber (camber between the feet and under the feet with rocker outside the inserts).
I would say that the new profile is a bit more poppy – I find camber more poppy but flat isn’t un-poppy by any means. I’d say the flat profile outdoor living was better on boxes and rails in the park and that flat is pretty stable for landing jumps but the camber in the hybrid camber is also good for landing stability.
I’d say the flat can be a bit more catchy – the hybrid rocker has that rocker in the tip and tail which helps to make it less catchy – but if you’re a more advanced rider that shouldn’t be an issue. I would say that the Outdoor Living was probably leaning more towards being a freestyle/park board but you can still definitely take it out on the groomers. But the Outerspace Living is probably more of a genuinely all-mountain freestyle board – so you can take it in the park or ride freestyle over the whole mountain or ride it almost like an all mountain board. except in powder really.
The Thunderstick is more of a park focused ride. If that’s what you’re looking for then it would be a good choice. 155cm or 157cm? If you were going to be riding mostly park, then I think the 155cm would be the better option.
Another option you could check out is the Capita DOA. It’s a more aggressive ride than the Outerspace Living but it’s defeinitely all-mountain freestyle. It’s technically hybrid camber too but it has camber between the feet and under the feet and then about 5cms past the inserts (about where the rocker starts on the outerspace living) there’s a flat zone and then just a tiny bit of rocker at the end of the flat zone. Overall it’s a bit more aggressive and could be catchy if you weren’t an experienced rider – but I loved it. You can check out my aggressive all-mountain freestyle list at the link below and also my full review of the DOA.
>>My Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain Freestyle
>>Capita DOA full review
For the DOA I would say 155W would be the best size for you. Of course if you want something more playful, then the Outdoor Living or Outerspace Living are more on that playful side.
The Thunderstick is softer flexing (4/10 flex) than both the Outerspace Living (5/10 flex) and the DOA (5.5/10) but it does have pretty much a traditional camber profile (with some small flat spots just before the contact points) – so it’s flex does make it more playful but the camber profile is quite aggressive.
Hope this gives you a bit more to go off. If you have any other questions about boards you’re interested in let me know.
Thanks for the great advice, it helped me a lot. The DOA is pretty much what I am looking for. So think I will end up getting this one.
Cheers
Hey Malte
You’re very welcome. Hope you enjoy you’re new board and the rest of the season!
Hi Nate,
Firstly massive thanks for the lists and advice given in your articles. I’m just looking for some advice on the Yes The Greats. In terms of stiffness how did it compare to the Slash Brainstorm? How easy was it to press? I’m currently 79kg with size 10.5 (us) shoe size, would you recommend 158cm over the 156cm for me?
Thanks,
Adam
Hi Adam
I would say that it’s kind of similar to press with as the Brain Storm in terms of ease of pressing and it’s really quite a similar flex too, in my opinion. It’s got a bit more camber going on between the feet than the Brainstorm so it’s a little more aggressive overall – but the rocker in the nose and tail and the flex is softened up a bit in the nose and tail so that makes it easier to press.
I would say that it’s got the edge over the Brainstorm in terms of pressing just because it’s even on both the tip and tail. So tail presses and nose presses are just as good as each other and feel the same. The Brainstorm has more rocker in the nose due to it’s setback hybrid camber profile and less rocker in the tail. So it feels different when pressing on each side.
Hope this helps and answers your question
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your reply, based on that I’m leaning towards the greats. Quick question on size I’m currently 79kg with size 10.5 (us) shoe size, would you recommend 158cm over the 156cm for me?
Thanks,
Adam
Hi Adam
Oops, I completely forgot to answer the second part of your last question. Thanks for reminding me. Can you let me know your height as well. Even though weight is the main factor in determining length, height plays a part too, in order to give an accurate recommendation.
Hi Nate,
No worries. I’m 5ft 10.5 (179cm).
Thanks,
Adam
Hi Adam
Thanks for that.
I think the 156cm for you is best for this particular board. That’s what I would go with if it was me (185lbs-ish [83kg] & 6″0 with size 10s). So I think that’s best for you too. I think the 154cm would definitely be too short. The 158cm would work but I think you’ll get more out of the 156cm for this type of board. If you were going for more of a big mountain or all-mountain board, then 158cm to 159cm would be better but for an all-mountain freestyle board like this, the 156cm is the best balance, IMO.
The width is going to be on the narrow side for 10.5s but I think it will be fine.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi nate
I want to ask what do u think about the size i should choose in a all mountain/freestyle board.
I have 165lb and 5,8
My actual board is a never sumer proto hd in 158
Hi Rafa
I like to take off a little bit from what I would call my “all-mountain” length but not as much as I would take off for a freestyle/park kind of board.
For you, I’d say your all-mountain length would be around 157cm – so I’d probably go roughly 155cm to 156cm. But I don’t think that the Proto HD 158 is necessarily wrong for you. Length is variable and part of it comes down to personal preference. I prefer to go a little shorter but others don’t necessarily.
The 158 is a wide version right? I would be a bit more concerned with it being too wide for you if that’s the case. If you can let me know if it’s the 158X (wide version) and also let me know your boot size and I can give you my opinion on whether I think it’s too wide.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for you response! It is much appreciated.
I am currently on a 161. I think the waist width is 267, which, quite honestly, I believe is just a bit too wide for me. My boot is the Burton Ruler, and now that I check the boot, I see that it is a size 11.5, but this particular boot runs small, so the 11.5 fits like any other size 11. I am a true size 11. I have no issue going with a wide board.
Additionally, I don’t necessarily require a true twin, as I only do about 15% switch riding, and honestly, I am not very good at it, but would like to get better. Most reviews of the West, Typo, and Standard indicate that even though these decks are not traditionally centered, they still do OK in switch. I really enjoy doing butters and presses, however, so the true twin would be nice there. I think what I am looking for is something right in the middle of all-mountain and all-mountain/freestyle, with no preference one way or the other.
For symmetrical, I would choose the Assassin, as the Outerspace Living would be the last choice on my list just based on your point regarding its performance in hard/icy conditions. For asymmetrical, the Proto Type Two seems to be the one that is calling.
Otherwise, if I were to go with one of the all-mountain decks here, either the West, Typo, or Standard, which one of these decks do you feel is closest to that all-mountain/freestyle ride that would allow me to transition more to switch riding, and also allow progression with buttering/pressing?
Are there any other decks not mentioned that I am overlooking?
Thanks again!
JD
Hi JD.
You’re very welcome.
I suspected you’d be on something like a 160 or 161 for your freeride board.
Because you have boots with outersole reduction, then I’d still consider them 11s, even though they’re actually 11.5 – as you’ve pointed out.
In terms of the closest all-mountain board to being an all-mountain freestyle board, I’d say the Typo is the closest to that. I’d actually say that the Typo is the most freestyle all-mountain board (what I’d categorize as an all-mountain board). It’s not a true twin but it’s close to being so and the setback is only 5mm so it’s a very very subtle setback. It’s also very good in hard and icy conditions. Very quick edge to edge too – great for in the trees. Not as good in powder as the Standard or West but a little better than the all-mountain freestyle boards we’ve been discussing.
I think the Typo would be a great choice, if you didn’t want to go for a pure all-mountain freestyle deck. Size-wise I’d say the 159W would probably be the best balance for you. You could go down to 156W – it would make some of those freestyle things easier to learn but sacrifice a little in terms of float and stability at speed. Or you could consider the 158 regular width. I think you’d get away with it but no guarantees.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for all your reviews! I am having a hard time choosing my next board, and hoping you can help!
6’1″, 176lbs, size 11 boot. I am an intermediate-advanced rider, and do most of my riding in the Pacific Northwest, so I am used to mostly hard snow, icy conditions where grip can be an issue, and the occasional dump of fairly heavy/wet “powder.” I am looking to transition into an all-mountain/freestyle board with a less aggressive feel, and more of a fun riding style, without sacrificing performance.
I ride the whole mountain, with the exception of the park. I am not a jibber at all. I do enjoy natural hits of small/medium size, and would like to find a board that can help me progress with some easy butters/presses and other freestyle riding, but not be so soft where it is unstable at speed or with carving on steeper or chunder terrain. Something I can just play around on all over the mountain, but also have the ability to get aggressive and really rip when needed.
After reading reviews for days, it seems that the NS Proto Type Two would be the perfect board for the riding style I am wanting to transition to. The Yes The Greats and Gnu Eco Choice also appeal to me. I am not, however, too excited about the asymmetric shape of these boards, and wonder if there are any symmetrical twin/directional-twin boards that would be comparable to the Proto Type Two.
I have also been considering the following:
Yes Standard
Yes Typo
NeverSummer West
Capita Outerspace Living
Salomon Assassin
What are your feelings about these boards with respect to my desired riding style? Should I be concerned about switching to an asymmetrical shaped board after only riding a directional, fully cambered, all-mountain freeride board my whole life, where I am usually set back and set up not duck footed?
Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
JD
Hi JD
It will certainly be an adjustment to go to an asymmetrical twin with a centered stance after being on a freeride deck your whole life.
But, IMO, it’s an easier transition going that way than the other way around.
I really like the asymmetrical boards – for this type of riding – and I didn’t find it was much to get used to (I had ridden a lot of twins before going onto asymmetrical twins but even so, I don’t think it’s that much of a transition to be honest).
However, if you are really concerned about the asymmetrical boards, then I think that the Capita Outerspace Living and Salomon Assassin would be what I would consider to be all-mountain freestyle from your list.
The Other 3 I would say are all-mountain. Of course, that’s not to say that they wouldn’t work for you, but I wouldn’t necessarily call them all-mountain-freestyle. They would, however, be closer to what you are used to riding (not the same but closer) and could potentially be an easier transition.
In terms of riding a duck stance on asymmetrical boards, I think that it’s probably best to ride them with a duck stance – but not necessarily a mirror-duck. I know a lot of people recommend a mirror-duck on them (e.g. +15/-15) but it’s certainly not mandatory, IMO. I’ve ridden asym boards with a slight-duck stance (+18/-6) and they were absolutely fine. Yeah, you’ll get the best switch performance with a mirror duck – but that’s the case with a symmetrical twin as well.
I think from what you’re describing here, that something from this list would suit you really well and I think that you would transition into the asym twin pretty easily – it will take a little bit of time to get used to it, but not that much, IMO, so long as you don’t expect too much on day 1. The Outerspace Living and Assasin would also be options – my only concern with the Outerspace living is in the harder/icy conditions.
In terms of sizing, I would say the following (these might be smaller than what you’re used to riding but I think they’re the right sizes for the style you are moving into): With your boot size, I would go with something with a waist width somewhere between 254mm and 260mm, if possible.
Eco Choice: 157.5cm (255mm waist width)
The Greats: 158 (253mm waist width – this might be pushing it on being too narrow, unless you have reduced footprint boots (what boots do you currently have?)
Proto Type Two: 158X (263mm waist) – this is on the other end of the scale and on the wide-end that I would go with for you. If you do have reduced footprint boots, you should be able to get on the 157.
Hope this helps – let me know if have any concerns over sizing or if you want another opinion on sizing for any other boards. Out of curiosity, what size do you currently ride?
Hi Nate,
Great write-up and thank you for the detailed review. I’m 5’9, 170-190 lbs, mainly riding on the West Coast (Big Bear, Mountain High) but am in the process of relocating to the East Coast, and will probably be riding there more often going forward. I’d just like to hear your recommendation on sizing for the Proto Type Two, between the 155 and the 157 cm. Thanks!
Hi Chony
For you I would go with the 157cm Proto Type Two – this is taking an assumption of 180lbs – though I would still say 157 at 170 and 190lbs. So yeah definitely 157cm. The 154cm is an option if you prefer to go shorter than average and I wouldn’t say it’s a no go at all – but I think the 157 would be the most balanced size for you.
Note this is based on the assumption that you meant between the 154 and 157. If you meant between the 155W and 157 I’d say it would still be the 157, unless you have size 11.0 to size 13.0 feet, then it would be between the 155W and the 158W.
Hope this helps
Gotcha Nate. Thank you so much!
You’re very welcome Chony. Hope you have an awesome season!
6’2″‘, 200-215 lbs, size 10.5-11
High Intermediate, riding in Tahoe primarily
I’ve been riding a High Society Freeride board (164) for several years. It’s pretty fast and on the stiffer side.
Looking to switch it up for something a little softer, probably a twin, to work on natural hits and switch progess.
Any advice would be great. I really enjoyed your article.
Thanks!
Hi Brian
I think an all-mountain-freestyle board sounds like the kind of thing you’re after. I think anything in this list would suit you well. In terms of sizing, I would take off a couple of centimeters from that 164 for your all-mountain-freestyle board.
With 10.5 to 11.0 boots, anything from around 252mm to 260mm would be an approximate range in terms of waist width. If they’re 11.0s, then you should probably try to go above 254mm.
From this list, the sizings I would recommend would be:
YES Basic: 161cm (254mm waist)
Lib Tech TRS: 162cm (256mm waist)
GNU Eco Choice: 161.5cm (258mm waist)
YES The Greats: the longest size for the greats is a 158cm – this is probably the only one on this list that doesn’t have a suitable size for you
NS Proto Type Two: 160cm (254mm waist)
If you want to look at more options you could also check out my all-mountain-freestyle snowboards ratings catalogs page (just lists 20 different all-mountain-freestyle boards in order of how I rated them).
~ All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards Ratings Catalog
Hope this helps.
Hi Nate!
I love snowboarding, but don’t know a lot on the technical aspect. I’ve been looking to buy a new board and I’ve been researching which boards would be best, but I was hoping I could get your advice/opinion.
I’m 5′ 7″ weighing roughly 132ish. I’m currently riding an old 143cm that seems to have a really soft flex. I like how easily I can turn and throw around the board, but it doesn’t carve well or hold well on icier moguls. It isn’t very stable.
I like to go backcountry, weave through trees, practice tricks on jumps, and weave through moguls.
All of the snowboarding sites I’ve seen take skill into account for recommending boards so here’s an idea of where I’m at – I haven’t really learned the finer details of snowboarding and mainly learned by feel. Park wise, I’m pretty trash. I can’t do rails at all, never done a half pipe, but I’m currently working on landing a 360 backflip. I have the backflip rotation down, but I’m 90 degrees shy of completion. I can ollie 180 both ways decently. I can *usually* ride double blacks well once I get comfortable; othertimes (icy moguls) i get my butt handed to me. I can ride blacks shakily with my fakie side. I can ride black moguls really comfortably without plowing, but double black icy moguls cause me to plow/slide. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m not technical enough yet, or if my board just doesn’t grip well on ice.
I was looking at the Prototype 2 but i think it’s smallest size is 152. What do you think? Will going 152 not sacrifice maneuverability?
I’d love any advice I can get on improving. Thank you!
Hi Minh
It sounds like you like to ride a lot of different scenarios. That’s cool.
I think you could definitely go longer than the 143cm but going up to 152cm might be a bit too long – especially as you are going from a 143cm. The advantage of a longer board is that you will gain stability and some extra edge-hold and better float in powder. The downside with going longer is it makes it harder to spin and, like you say, makes it more difficult to maneuver. This is one of the reasons why it’s good to have more than one board – you can have different sizes (as well as different specs) for different things. SO you could keep your 143 and use it for certain things.
But overall I think the 143 is too short for you anyway, even for freestyle. But I would be hesistant in jumping you straight up to a 152. What’s your boot size? Depending on your boot size, you might be able to fit on the women’s version of the Proto Type 2 (it’s got a pretty neutral graphic, in my opinion). But it’s likely that it would be too narrow.
I would say something in the range of 147-149 would be a good size for you to look at.
Also I think something a bit stiffer will serve you well. You sound like you are reasonably advanced. Certainly advanced enough to handle some extra stiffness. And that stiffness will also help with stability.
I suggest you look into the following:
~ GNU Space Case 147
~ YES Typo 149
~ Burton Custom 148 (if you like the feel of all camber)
~ Ride Machete 149
~ GNU Head Space 149
Hi Nate,
I have been stuck between choosing the right board and would love to hear your advice/input!
after all the reviews I have read from your website and others, I have narrowed down my board choices between the Proto type II, Yes The Greats, and Never Summer West. My riding style is basically hitting all types of natural kickers in every part of the mountain, park jumps, spending time in between trees in powder, and staying off of the smooth groomer runs.
My question for you is do you think the Proto type II will perform well with a +18 degree front/-9 degree back foot stance on a board that is asymmetrical and meant for a duct stance (+15/-15)?
Also any advice on which of these three boards (or any other of your recommendations) will best fit a rider like me who is always looking for kickers for spin tricks, and powder.
I love how technical and detailed your reviews are! they are unmatchable!
Thanks in advanced!
Alex
Hey Alex
You can definitely ride the Proto Type Two with those binding angles. I rode the Proto Type Two with +15/-15 but I have ridden other asym boards with +18/-6 and they were fine.
I think that the Type 2 and Greats will be your best bet for your kickers and spins. In terms of powder the West will be better. But you would have a 20mm set back stance on the West and I imagine you would want to be centered? If your rocking heaps of powder, then you’ll have to work a bit harder on the Greats and Proto Type 2 to keep the nose up but they can definitely ride the powder – just not ideal for it. That said, if you centered the West it would likely be similar in powder to the other two.
The other options could be the YES Typo and the Burton Trick Pony. They’ll be a little better in powder but have smaller setback stances than the West. They won’t quite be as good for riding switch or for jumps and spins as the Greats and the Proto Type 2 but will still be good.
Sorry to throw other options into the mix!
But I think from how you describe your style to be that the Greats or the Proto Type 2 will be the best options. Just know that they won’t be like surfy in the powder if that’s what you were after – but they are both quick from edge-to-edge which is definitely good to have between the trees.
If you like to ride with a centered stance then the Greats and Proto Type II will be just as good in powder as if you were to ride the others centered anyway.
This reply is a bit all over the place! But I hope it gives you some more information for your decision.
Hey,
I am having a tough time choosing my next board. I have been considering Jones Mtn Twin but because i like to ride switch a lot I was concerned about it being too directional oriented. I am an advanced rider living near Mt Bachelor. I ride the whole mountain, and also enjoy park jumps and natural hits of small to medium size, I would like to find a board that can help me progress with some butters and presses and other freestyle but not be so soft it is unstable at speed or with carving on steeper or chunder terrain. My last board has felt too slanted in the free ride category, a stiffer directional twin so I would like to go a bit more all mtn freestyle. Other boards I have been considering are Yes Greats, NS Proto II, Yes Standard, Salomon Assassin. I’m 6’1″ 195, 10.5
Any suggestions? I really enjoy your reviews, most informative of all i have read online. Thanks!
I also ment to add that I was concerned the greats or proto were more park boards and woukdnt hold up as an all mountain ride, so comments on that would really be helpful!
Hey John
Thanks for your message. I think something like the Greats or Proto Type Two would suit your purposes well. They might not be as stable at speed or as good at carving as a good freeride board but they are still good carvers and still quite stable at speed. That’s the great thing about these types of boards is you get everything you want from a park board (except not usually as good for jibbing) but they are also good over the rest of the mountain.
They are definitely better than a park board in terms of carving and speed. As good as a lot of all mountain boards that I’ve ridden. Not up there with boards that are really specializing in speed, carving etc but pretty good none-the-less.
I think either the Greats or Proto Type Two would be great choices for you. Honestly, from my experience they are as good as the Mountain Twin for carving and speed and better for switch and jumps. They’re not as good for powder though, if you ride a lot of that.
The other option is to go for an aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle board (excuse the long name!) I have a list of my top 5 for them also if you want to check it for more options out at the link below.
>>Top 5 Aggressive All Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Thanks A lot Nate! I think I will pull the trigger on one of those today.
John
You’re very welcome. Hope you enjoy the ride and have an awesome season!
HI nate I want to know about differences and pros and cons between YES the greats,NEVER SUMMER proto type two and GNU space case.
thank you
Hi nima
You just listed 3 of my favorite snowboards!
I would say that the main differences are that the Greats and the Proto Type 2 are slightly faster and better with carving than the Space Case. They are slightly more stable at speed too. The Space Case is a slightly better jibber. They’re all great with jumps and riding switch.
I categorize the Space Case as a freestyle snowboard for these reasons, which is why it’s not in this list – though it would also score very highly if it was in this list. You can check out my Top 10 Freestyle Snowboards to see just how highly I rate the Space Case as a “freestyle” snowboard.
Between the Proto Type Two (as per the score breakdowns) and the YES Greats, I felt the Greats was slightly more stable at speed – but very little in it – and the Proto Type Two is slightly better in choppy uneven snow – but again it’s very close.
Hope this answers your question
thank you very much nate. very useful
Surprised the Yes Greats isn’t in one of the Top 10. It is almost an aggressive all mountain freestyle board which can do it all. I have had 3 of them and this is my favorite board to ride all conditions I just size up to my 158 for powder days.
Hey Chris
The YES The Greats is one of the few YES boards I am yet to assess. Will be one of the first on the list this coming season. I have heard good things about this deck and when I update this list for 2016/17 season, it may well be on it, assuming it lives up to what I’ve heard about it. Can’t wait to ride it this season!
I see it got in there! I have been riding Yes boards since they came out and I love how they have stayed normal cambered with just a little early rise for a little more float and are a little less catchy. I have had a couple of them over the years and currently I have 2of the Greats in a 156 and 158. 156 for park and normal days and the 158 for powder days out here in Utah. I think I can get away with a 158 out here due to the light snow ( I am 6’2 182lb).
The Greats is an awesome deck for sure. In fact I haven’t ridden a YES board that I didn’t like yet. Definitely doing something right over at YES
Great write-up. Can I ask why the Lib Tech T. Rice is not on this list? I’ve been going back and forth on my next board and I am stuck between the NS Proto HDX and the Lib Tech T. Rice Pro C2 BTX. Both wide boards around 158. I live in AZ so snow conditions differ a lot here on the mountain. I mainly stick to the mountain slopes, taking a few cuts between the woods and I hit the park once in a while as well.
Hey Jon
The T.Rice Pro is one of the few Lib Tech boards that I don’t have any experience with. But I have heard great things.
I think both boards would suit your purposes well. From what I do know of these boards I would say that The T.Rice Pro would be a bit more aggressive than the Proto and the Proto would feel a bit more playful in comparison. The T.Rice might also be slightly better in icy conditions but there wouldn’t be too much in it.
Otherwise these are actually reasonably similar decks from what I can tell – same type of camber profile, both true twin and centered. The Proto has a deeper sidecut which is what makes it less aggressive.
Hope this helps your decision
Hi!
Thanks for the response.
I have wrongly expressed myself in my previous comment. Jibbing is not an aspect that would determine my purchase, because I am pretty novice at it. As long as the TRS does satisfactory when sliding boxes, and gives a decent playfulness when needed such as buttering around the piste, then I will be more than pleased to go with it.
I am concerned, however, that some people say that the TRS struggles at low speeds as it is designed to be more aggressive. Therefore, does this mean that it will let me down in more technical terrains whether on-piste or trails? Jumping and playfulness is what I am looking after. Stability is also very important feature when speeding or jumping although it contradicts to the looser feel. That’s why I want to find the balance. I will be opting for a 154 board where the flex is rated at 5/10 for both TRS and Skate Banana.
Should I consider other boards as well, or this will confuse me even more?
Cheers
Hey Tyler
I think that you’re on the right track going with Lib Tech – given that you ride on a lot of ice if I recall from your original post.
I think the TRS is going to work best for you by the sounds of it. If you were going to be doing more jibbing then I’d go with the Skate Banana but for your needs I think your best with the TRS. It won’t be as loose feeling as mentioned before but overall I think it’s the better choice. I wouldn’t call the TRS an aggressive board so I wouldn’t worry too much about how it rides at lower speeds – it won’t be as mellow as the Skate Banana but it won’t be super aggressive either.
Particularly if you are going with that 154 with the 5/10 flex then you shouldn’t find it too aggressive. Out of curiosity what is your height and weight? Just so that I can get an idea of sizing.
Thanks again Nate!
I am around 5’9″ and 160lbs. I used Lib tech’s board finder to determine the length (154-157) and decided to go for the shorter one for more playfulness.
Should I cross out the Attack Banana? I read that it falls between the Skate Banana and Gnu’s Rider Choice? Another even cheaper option also came into consideration — Gnu’s Metal Gnuru, it’s EC2 BTX. It might be a good compromise that falls between SB and TRS, or I should stick with the latter and not worry about its more stiff flex? It’s both the stability for jumps and speed as well as the playfulness for buttering around the slope that keep me still wondering what to choose, although I know that a perfect balance is hard to achieve.
Cheers
Hey Tyler
Yeah good choice size-wise. I was going to say you’ll want to be a bit shorter for that play-fullness you’re after. I think 154cm is a good choice.
To me the Attack Banana is quite similar to the Skate Banana but a little stiffer and maybe slightly better on jumps but not as good jibbing-wise but doesn’t offer that much extra in terms of carving and speed. It’s not going to be a bad choice but I’m not sure it’s worth the extra money over the Skate Banana.
The Metal Gnuru is another Mervin option that has magne-traction. It’s got slightly more rocker in the camber profile which should make it looser feeling than the TRS but it’s under the TRS in terms of speed and jumps. But as you say it’s a cheaper option and you don’t loose too much in performance.
I still think the TRS is a good option – especially the 154 but the Gnuru works too – the 155.
Like you say it’s hard to get the perfect balance but I think one of these will work well for you.
Cheers Nate!
I’ll check both the Metal Gnuru and the TRS out at the local store and will go with my gut.
Really appreciate your input
Hey Tyler.
You’re very welcome. Let me know which you go with
Hey Nate!
Nice work, keep it up!
I am planning to buy a new snowboard to replace my already obsolete Burton Blunt that I’ve been riding for the past 7-8 years now. The places where I ride usually get icy, therefore, Mervin’s snowboards seem to be the way to go. I can’t decide which board to pick, because I ride on- and off-piste, jumps – grabs and some rotations, and have some powder days as well. I’d like to improve my freestyle skills in parks and around the piste (jumps, buttering, boxes etc). What I want is to feel the board loose so that I can play with it, but at the same not to the extent to make me feel unstable when speeding or jumping — overall an all rounder that can handle both parks and powder.
Lib tech’s Skate Banana, Attack Banana and TRS are the ones that caught my eye, where the latter seems to be the sweet spot in between. Is the TRS too aggressive for an every day use and does it come anywhere near the playfulness of the Skate Banana? As for the Attack Banana I believe it is just a more freeride oriented SB.
I’d really appreciate if you could help me choose the best option for me. Any other suggestions are welcome.
Cheers
Hi Tyler
Thanks for your message and all the details.
I think overall it’s between the Skate Banana (SB) and the TRS.
The SB has that loose feeling you’re after, it’s great when it comes to gripping ice, it’s the best jibber of the 3 (which is going to be great for those boxes). It will be just as good in powder as the TRS or the Attack Banana.
The TRS has a more stable feel and not as good a jibber as the SB – but it will carve better, handle speed better and is a better jumper.
So it depends which is more important for you – that looser feel and better at jibbing – or the better jumper and speeder.
I think the SB will feel slightly more similar to the Blunt.
I think either will do the job well but it depends on what aspects you are more likely to appreciate.
Hope this helps.
Hey Nate!
A technicality…
Shouldn’t the TRS and the Parkitect be marked as tied for #1?
Alternatively, why is the TRS marked as #2 if it has the same score as the Parkitect?
Hey
Yeah they are technically tied for first – good spotting! I just found it easier to label one of them first and one second. And even though the boards are both all-mountain-freestyle they are still have slightly different strengths and weaknesses so which board is preferred by different people will differ. And sometimes it even comes down to which graphic you prefer!
Thinking about getting a 157 Proto Type 2. I had a 57 Proto CT and it felt fine but waist width looks a little narrower. Think i’m cool width wise on the 157 with a 10.5 boot?
Hi Brian
I would say you should be fine on the Proto Type 2 157 in terms of waist. The waist on the CT was 253mm by the looks of it – but with a slightly narrower tip and tail. So with the slightly wider tip/tail and only pinched in 1mm at the waist, the Type Two will be very close to the same width at the inserts as the CT – so if you had no issues on the 56 CT, then you should be fine on the Type Two 57.
And generally speaking 252mm is ok for 10.5s – it’s the narrowest I would go on 10.5s but, again, if you’ve had no issues on the CT, I think you’re definitely ok.
What do you think for me im 5’5 and never snowboarded ever! Should i go with grade or stick with this one?
Hi Riko
If you’ve never snowboarder before, then I would go for a snowboard that’s more suitable for a beginner. If you’re wanting to go for something Never Summer, then I think your best bet is the Never Summer Snowtrooper. But you should also check out the following link for more options:
>>My Top 15 Men’s Snowboards for Beginners
In terms of sizing, if you could let me know your weight and boot size as well, that would be great. Weight, as well as height, is a big factor in determining snowboard length and boot size helps to choose something with a width that’s right for you.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate
Sorry, but another sizing question (with a bit of a choice question mixed in). I’ve been riding an Arbor Wasteland (2008) for about 10 years now. I’ve enjoyed it and there’s nothing wrong with it but I’m looking for a board that I can work on my butters and presses with, and still hit up some tree runs, and powder when I see it.
I’m 1’83m and around 90kgs, I’ve been looking at the Evil Twin 159 (2019) and the Yes Greats 159 (2019)? Do you have any recommendations on either of those, or another board I should look at?
Hi Olu
Thanks for your message.
I don’t currently test Bataleon. But it sounds like the Evil Twin could work – and the 159 sounds like a good length.
The Greats would also be a good choice for what you’re describing, IMO – and the 159 is likely the best size for you for that board too. But if you could let me know your boot size, that would help to make a more accurate recommendation.