Hello and welcome to my list of the best all mountain snowboards for women. This has now been updated for the 2020-21 season.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com each board will be given a score out of 100 for easier comparison.
Of the 19 women's all mountain boards that I rated:
O.k. let’s get into the top 6!
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #6=
Board: Never Summer Infinity
- CANADA
Flex: Medium-soft (4/10)
Rating: 83.3/100
The Infinity is a nice little do-it-all, all mountain snowboard – showing no weak points across all of the rating categories.
The Infinity is the softest flexing board on this list and the most playful - so if you like your riding playful and casual then this is likely to be your best bet on this list.
Whilst it's not ideal for really opening up and bombing, you can take this thing anywhere and do just about anything on it. So if you're the kind of rider that likes things playful but like to do a bit of everything or even if you just like to casually ride the groomers - then the Infinity is a great choice.
Check out more on the Infinity in the Video
Score Breakdown for the Infinity
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 9/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 3.0 | 3/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #6=
Board: Rossignol Frenemy
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 83.3/100
* HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
The Rossignol Frenemy is a board that's very consistent across all categories rated for, and across all types of terrain.
The Frenemy is above average in every aspect (see score breakdown) – the true meaning of a do-it-all, all mountain board. This is also the best board on this list for icy snow conditions. So, for those that often ride in those kinds of conditions, this is a great choice.
Check out the Videos below for more opinion on the Frenemy
The video below is a few season's old but the Frenemy hasn't really changed (apart from graphics) since then.
Score Breakdown for the Frenemy
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 9/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPINS | 3.0 | 3/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #5
Board: Arbor Swoon Camber
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Smart rating score: 84.6/100
Unlike the first 2 boards in this list, the Arbor Swoon Camber is on the more aggressive side.
If you like the feel of camber (but a little more forgiving than full traditional camber), and want to be able to carve and charge hard and either don't get powder, have another board for powder or don't care for powder, then the Swoon camber might be just what you're after.
The Swoon Camber has a centered stance, something I wouldn't usually put in an all-mountain category. However, everything else about the board says all-mountain - enough so to include it here.
There are 2 versions of the Swoon - Rocker and Camber. Both boards have different personalities and their own strengths and weaknesses.
I have included the score breakdowns for both below, so you can check the relative strengths and weaknesses for each.
Learn more about the Swoon Camber in the video below
Score Breakdown for the Swoon Camber
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 2.0 | 6/15 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 12/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SWITCH | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
BUTTERS | 3.0 | 3/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 84.6/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Swoon Rocker
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.0 | 9/15 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SPEED | 3.0 | 9/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 4.0 | 8/10 |
JUMPS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 3.0 | 3/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #4
Board: YES Hello
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (4.5/10)
Smart rating score: 87.7/100
The YES Hello is a new board for 2021 and offers a mellower and lower price version of the Hel Yes (see #1 on this list).
If you like you like a board slightly only the softer side, but still with a stable feel underfoot and something that's versatile enough to go anywhere and do anything, the Hello should be on your wish list.
Learn more about the Hello in the video below
Score Breakdown for the Hello
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.7/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #3
Board: Burton Feelgood (camber)
- CANADA
Flex: Medium-stiff (7/10)
Rating: 88.3/100
The Burton Feelgood is the most aggressive board on this list. If I did a separate list for aggressive all-mountain women's boards, then that's where this would belong.
With more camber and being stiffer than the Swoon Camber, the Feelgood is one of the more aggressive carving machines in women's snowboarding.
If you're an experienced rider who likes to bomb hard and carve up a storm, and you don't need something for deep powder, then the Feelgood should be squarely on your radar.
There is also a "Flying V" version of the Feelgood - which is a completely different beast - it's softer and more playful. I have included the scores for both below.
Check out more about the Feelgood in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Feelgood
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
CARVING | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SPEED | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 3.0 | 3/5 |
BUTTERS | 2.0 | 2/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.3/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Flying V
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.0 | 9/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.0/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #2
Board: Jones Twin Sister
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Rating: 90.1/100
In at #2 we have the Jones Twin Sister!
If you’re looking for a board that is strong ,or at least above average in every single category, then the Twin Sister might just be that board.
This board will be a great partner on the mountain wherever you venture to and in whatever style you want to ride – be it a playful jaunt down the mountain, creative freestyle riding, laying down some hard carves, bombing down steeps, shredding through the trees or venturing into powder.
The 2021 model has changed a little bit - making it a little more playful than it was and a little less bomby and a little better for uneven terrain and butters. But all and all it has a similar personality to the previous models, just with those subtle differences (check out the full review link above for more details on the changes for the 2021 model).
Aggressive/Playful for this list
Just quickly, the order of most aggressive to most playful on this list, in case that’s a factor in your decision, is:
1. Burton Feelgood (most aggressive)
2. Arbor Swoon Camber (more aggressive)
3. Yes Hel Yes (just on the aggressive side of middle)
4. Jones Twin Sister (perfect middle-ground - 2021 model more playful but still sits in a nice middle ground)
5. Burton Feelgood Flying V (just on the playful side of middle)
6. YES Hello (just on the playful side of middle)
7. Rossignol Frenemy (just on the playful side of middle)
8. Arbor Swoon Rocker (just on the playful side of middle)
9. Never Summer Infinity (quite playful)
Check out the Video for more on the Twin Sister
Score Breakdown for the Twin Sister
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #1
Board: Yes Hel YES
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Smart rating score: 92/100
* HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
The Hel Yes is one of those boards that has that uncanny ability as a board that you can ride quite aggressively on but then you can also dial it back and be more playful with it as well.
There's nothing this board can't do and nowhere that it can't go. An all-rounder that meets the definition of do-it-all, go anywhere, anytime. It's also a great option for those that see icy conditions regularly.
Learn more about the Hel Yes in the video below
Score Breakdown for the Hel Yes
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
POWDER | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
CARVING | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 12/15 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 3.5 | 7/10 |
JUMPS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
BUTTERS | 4.0 | 4/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92/100 |
Thanks for Checking Out the List
There you have my list for the top 6 all mountain snowboards for women. Thanks for reading and I hope this list was helpful for you. If you have any questions, comments or opinions feel free to leave them in the comments section below.
To learn more about each board check out the links under each heading.
Hi Nate –
First of all, thanks for all of your help with these lists! I have been driving myself crazy looking at reviews, and trying to snag a 2021 board before the 2022 hit the market.
I am a higher end intermediate rider. Have been riding on and off for 20 years (with a large gap until the last 3 seasons). I have been riding a crap rocker board, and really want to get back to a camber or hybrid camber. I’m tired of the instability at high speeds. Love to charge it, but also want to be nimble on the mountain.
I am a true all mountain rider, love carves and groomers, but would like to elevate my riding to be more all-mountain with tree runs, mountain jumps, etc. I did those when younger, but finally after a few seasons feel confident enough to get back into it. You prob wont ever find me in park. I also want to progress into more switch riding.
That being said, I would like a board that can elevate me more into expert riding. I currently have been looking at the Arbor Swoon Camber and The Never Summer Photosynthesis. I’m 5’7″, 130 lb. Been riding 150, but have realized I can prob drop down to 147-148. Size 7 boots, M bindings.
Any ideas? Driving myself crazy with looking at boards. Considered the Capita Birds of a feather, but ride a lot of late season spring snow in PNW (majority of time has been March – May), so worried about edge hold so it’s out for me. Can sometimes see really hard packed snow and ice late in the day. Not as worried about Powder. I will get it, but don’t chase it enough to solely base my decisions on that.
Hope you can help, your website is awesome!!!
Hi Kara
Thanks for your message.
Since powder isn’t a big priority, then I think the Swoon Camber and Proto Synthesis are both great options. The YES Hel Yes and Jones Twin Sister would also be solid choices. But if you’re looking predominantly camber, then the Swoon Camber and Proto Synthesis are more camber dominant than the Hel Yes and Twin Sister (though those two are still more camber than rocker). I think any of those 4 would treat you well for what you’re describing, but if you did want to go mostly camber, then the first 2 are the front runners.
Size-wise, Yeah, I’d say around 147-148 is spot on. For the boards mentioned:
Swoon Camber 147
Proto Synthesis 148
Twin Sister – debate between the 146 and 149, but probably leaning 146 for this one as it’s a little wider than the average board at that length
Hel Yes – again between the 146 and 149 – I don’t think either would be wrong, but leaning more 149 for this one. It’s not as wide and by the description of your riding I’d be leaning 149, but 146 certainly still an option
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I truly appreciate your response and help! Been searching everywhere for the Yes Hel Yes and the Twin Sister, but pretty much sold out in 2021 unfortunately.
Looks like it’s between the Swoon or Protosynthesis (I had previously wanted the Hel Yes, but didn’t know if it would be too stiff).
Appreciate your response and confirming I am in the right direction – you absolutely rock and have helped so many people!
Best Wishes, looking forward to more of your content in the future.
Kara
You’re very welcome Kara. Thanks for visiting the site. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you go with and how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow.
Hi Nate,
Thanks again. I have decided to go with the NS Proto Synthesis because it seems with the hybrid, though small rocker, might be an easier transition since I am coming off a rocker currently to begin with.
I really want the Arbor Swoon Camber as well, super tempted to buy both. Do you think there’s enough of a difference in the two boards to own both, or do you have a preference over one another? I’m just in love with both boards. My only concern on the Swoon was going strictly over to a camber, rather than partial hybrid.
Thanks again for your help, I will for sure post an update once I get to take this in the snow next season!
Kara
Hi Kara
There is quite a lot of overlap with those 2 boards. I definitely wouldn’t say they’ll feel the same to ride at all. But for the purposes you’d ride both, they’re in a very similar category. Too close, IMO, to be in the same quiver. That doesn’t mean you can’t, but there wouldn’t be really particular conditions or anything like that, that you’d want to choose one over the other, IMO.
Hi Nate:
Just finished a weekend of spring riding out in Mammoth, and it’s got me thinking about upgrading my board.
You helped me find the PERFECT first board a couple seasons ago: I’ve been riding on a Burton Yeasayer Flying V (152). It’s been perfect for the past 2.5 seasons as I progressed.
But now I’m cruising blue-blacks, and I’m feeling like I could use something a little stiffer for more control on steeps, less chatter, and faster riding.
Mammoth is my home mountain, so I ride mostly groomers – and powder when we can find it! I love tree runs when the snow is right, no park stuff. I’m 5’9”, 150 lbs, boots are women’s size 10.
The Feelgood Flying V seems like the obvious step up, but should I consider anything else? Not looking for anything too aggressive, maybe the Jones Twin Sister?
Thanks, Nate! Your advice is always SO helpful!
Hi Katie
Thanks for your message. Glad to hear that the Yeasayer Flying V has treated you well and that you’re able to enjoy some spring riding!
Yeah, the Feelgood Flying V makes sense, if you like the feel of that Flying V profile and don’t want too drastic a chance and want something that’s still playful and not too aggressive, but a little stiffer. The Feelgood Flying V fits that description really well. It’s a step up, but not too big a change. Size-wise, I would go 152 again.
The Twin Sister is also definitely an option. It would present a bigger change, for sure, but would still definitely work. It will feel a little stiffer than the Feelgood Flying V (I would say around 5/10 flex for the Feelgood Flying V – versus around 6/10 for the Twin Sister – compared to around 4/10 for the Yeasayer Flying V) and is more camber dominant. Still not massively camber dominant – there’s still a bit of rocker in there and the 3D contour base also helps it to be more forgiving. Overall, I would say it’s a little more aggressive than the Feelgood Flying V, but I wouldn’t call aggressive. It’s one of those boards that’s right in the middle of aggressive and playful. Versus the Feelgood Flying V, which is on the more playful end of the scale. You get better edge hold in hard/icy conditions too, if you find you come across them regularly, but not a big concern if you don’t see them much, and if you haven’t had any issues in that regard with your Yeasayer Flying V.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thanks so much, Nate!
I also found your full review of the Jones Dream Catcher, which sounds like it might be closer to what I’m used to and a little more in line with my riding style than the Twin Sister. Do you think that might be a logical step up from the Yeasayer? Better edge hold and a little more stability, but still fun to whip through trees? And size-wise, it looks like you’re recommending people size up a little on that board – would you think 154 rather than 151, if I go that route?
Thank you! I SO SO appreciate your advice!!
Hi Katie
Yeah if you go Dream Catcher, I think the 154 would be the best bet.
To note that the Twin Sister changed for the 2021 model – and it’s now a more maneuverable board than the 2020 and earlier models. I would say it’s become even more maneuverable than the Dream Catcher now. That’s based on the 2021 Mountain Twin (men’s equivalent of the Twin Sister) as I haven’t had anyone test the 2021 Twin Sister. But yeah both would be good step ups from the Yeasayer. But just wanted to point that out about the 2021 model of the Twin Sister, as it underwent a few changes.
Hi there
I just bought the Capita Equalizer size 150 but I am not sure it’s the right choice and also may be too big! I am 5’4, 128 lbs, size 7.5 boot. My board is 12 years old and a size 154. I am an intermediate advanced rider. I like playing in the trees and riding powder (who doesn’t!). I like to off piste and groomers, never go into the park. I don’t go crazy fast but I think that’s because my board can’t handle speed and so I want a board that is more stable at speed (but also fun going playfully through trees and is still fun at slower spped). Should I stick with the Equalizer but should I exchange it for a 146? Also do you have an opinion on Flux bindings? Thank you so much!
Hi Erin
Thanks for your message.
I think the Equalizer is a great choice for what you’re describing, but I think 146 is the better size for you. I think that’s about the perfect size for you. Since you’re used to a 154, the 150 is definitely doable though. If you were coming from a smaller size, I would say 100% 146, but since you’re used to riding longer, I don’t think the 150 is wrong, but purely for your specs, I think the 146 is the best match.
The 150 will be more stable at speed and float better in powder, but the 146 will be more maneuverable in tighter spots (better for trees) and for your specs would still be fine in terms of speed and powder float, IMO.
I really like Flux bindings. Really good response, great ankle support, great adjustability, comfortable and all round well built. The biggest downside of them is less shock absorption than most bindings. If you can get past that, they are awesome bindings. The Flux GS I think would be the best match to the Equalizer and what you’re describing. But if you wanted to go a little stiffer and wanted to drive the board a little harder, the GX would certainly work too.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much Nate! Really appreciate you taking the time to respond! I am going with the Equalizer 146 and Flus GS. I can’t wait to hit the slopes!
You’re very welcome Erin. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
Really enjoy reading your reviews, it has helped both myself and my friends in figuring out what boards are good for us. I’m looking to buy a new board as I’m looking to go out west next year to do more powder runs. I live out east in Toronto so the runs are usually more groomed and icy.
I’m 37, 5’5, usually between 155-165 pounds, and currently I ride a Never Summer Men Cobra 153cm with the Union Legacy binding and I wear Size 7.5 men burton photon boots. The cobra board is about 7 years old so I’m looking for an all mountain board for more icy and hard snow condition that is also good for powder riding. I’m an intermediate rider. I don’t ride fast, hence I do a lot of turns when I ride to check the speed when I carve.
I’m planning to use the Union Strata men medium binding with this new board. A couple of boards that I’m considering is there Yes Hel Yes 155cm (not sure if they go any longer), the Bataleon storm 156cm, and Bataleon thunder 153cm. Would really appreciate any other recommendation or whether you think the ones that I’m considering is a good fit for me 🙂 thank you for your help Nate!
Hi Elaine
Thanks for your message.
I think the Hel Yes would work really well. But I would be looking more at the 152 for that. For your specs, ability and how you describe your riding, I think that would be perfect size. I think going 155/156 is too long, taking everything into account.
I don’t test Bataleon boards, so can’t say much about them not having had any experience with them. Length-wise I think the 152 Thunder could work, but I think it’s a bit wide for your boots. The 152 (rather than 156) Storm looks like a good option on paper. I don’t know how well Bateleon ride in icy conditions though, as I haven’t ridden any.
In terms of bindings, the Legacy is pretty close to the Strata and is likely a better size. Women’s bindings are made with women’s calves in mind, so I would stick to the Legacy (if you feel the need to upgrade you could get the newer Legacy or another option). As well as that, the Strata has quite a long baseplate and even in the medium, could be too long for the width of the boards. Also according to Union’s sizing, a Men’s US7.5 would be a better match to the Small Union Strata. I haven’t tested boots that size in the medium, so I don’t know if it would be a good fit or not, so in this case I would go with the recommendations. So if you are set on going Strata, then I’d go Small rather than medium. But I would recommend going Legacy over Strata in your case.
Some other options, if you weren’t doing any freestyle stuff and not really riding switch:
– Never Summer Lady West
– GNU Barrett
– Lib Tech Dynamiss
– Jones Dream Catcher
But I think the Hel Yes would be a really good option for what you’re describing.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate for your recommendation. This is extremely helpful. I was wondering if you think the Hel Yes in 149cm is better or the 152cm. I found a couple of stores that has one size or the other 🙂
Also, what would be an upgrade to the Legacy that would fit the Hel Yes board?
Hope you have a great day!
Hi Elaine
I think the 152 is probably the best size, but 149 is doable. It’s on the shorter side for you, but in a reasonable range. I’d usually say 149 if you were riding more freestyle, but it’s still doable, particularly as you don’t ride that fast. It would be a bit more to get used to, given that your used to a 153.
Between the 152 and 149 Hel Yes, I would say:
– The 152 will be more stable at speed, float better in better and feel a little stiffer than the 149
– The 149 will be more maneuverable at slow speeds and for short/sharp turns, better for buttering and freestyle in general and feel a little more playful/softer flexing relative to the 152
Will answer your binding question in reply to your other comment.
Hi Nate – Sorry, one last question, for bindings, I would probably buy something new. Which women binding would you recommend then? I want to correct myself that currently I’m riding a Union Trilogy and not Legacy. So I’m opened to getting any brand of binding that would fit my riding style and Yes Hel Yes board 🙂 Thanks again for your help.
Elaine
Hi Elaine
If you’re on the Trilogy, then the Legacy, IMO, is an upgrade, and would be a good match to the Hel Yes. The main difference between the Trilogy and Legacy, IMO, is that the Legacy has better board feel and more of a springy/sharper turn feel. The Trilogy is a smoother feel and less board feel. If you’re not really riding freestyle then board feel isn’t as big a deal, but I would still say the Legacy is a step up from the Trilogy overall.
The Burton Lexa (or even Lexa X if you wanted to go a little stiffer in your bindings) would also be a great match, IMO
Thank you Nate for all your help!!
You’re very welcome Elaine. Happy riding!
Hi Nate!
I haven’t bought a new snowboard in 11 years and it was a Burton Avenue 139. I am 5’3″, 125 lb, size 7 boot. I live in Denver, but only get 3-8 days on my board these days. I’m a quick intermediate all-mountain rider and want a board for Colorado riding.
My husband loves his Never Summer board. And I was recently recommended a Lib Tech Cortado. I’d love to get your take on a recommendation. Love your list, BTW (but I’m having a hard time with your top picks being sold out). TIA
Hi Amber
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, I would go a little longer – somewhere in the range 142-144.
If you’re not really riding switch, then something like the Cortado could work (I’d go 142 if you went for that one). Some other freeride options (more directional), so again if you’re not really riding switch:
– Lib Tech Dynamiss 142
– Never Summer Lady West 144 – a little stiffer, but still not oppressively stiff
– Burton Story Board
– GNU Barrett
– Jones Dream Catcher
– Capita The Equalizer
– GNU Klassy
I would check those out. If you do like to ride switch a bit, then an all-mountain option would be better, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for the quick reply!
You’re very welcome Amber. Happy riding!
Hello Nate, I’m trying to decide on a new setup. 5’4″, 135 lb, size 6.5 boots that are on the bulky side (the length of the boot is 28cm). I do resort riding (moguls! people!) and love glades runs, so I want something maneuverable, but I also love speed. I also have a powder trip planned for next winter. No backcountry or park on the regular. Can you advise?
The Hel Yes reviews are off the charts. Could I pull off the 149 (smallest I can find in stock)? I’m in the middle of the weight range, but your post on waist width suggests the board might be too wide. I ride +18/0. Would the 149 be too wide? What is the ideal waist width?
If I get the Hel Yes, is the Union Trilogy is a good match? Also looking at Legacy, but it is in low stock everywhere.
Other options I’m considering because the waist is smaller: Capita Equalizer 146, Never Summer Aura 150 (146 also an option but I am over the suggested weight). How would you weigh these 3 options? All their shapes are different and I’m not sure how to evaluate CRC (Aura) vs RCR (Hel Yes, Equalizer-ish – that has a bit of flat).
Thanks in advance and thank you for your hard work on this site! It’s been invaluable.
Hi Victoria
Thanks for your message.
If you were to go Hel Yes, I would go 146 for your specs for sure. I think the 149 isn’t super long for you, but on the long side. Doable length alone, but add the width to it and I think it’s overall too big.
Ideally with 6.5s you’d want something less than 234mm waist width-wise. That’s a rough estimate because the width at inserts differs compared to the waist depending on the board. Taking into account your boots are bulky, you probably don’t want to go too narrow, so something 230-236 is probably the way to go. It’s your foot size, rather than the length of the boot that is the main factor in creating leverage on the edges. Sizing down a little bit is a good way to compensate for a board being too wide. I would say your all-mountain size is around 147cm, so if you go with something wider, then preferably you’d size down a little from that. Especially if you want something maneuverable.
For the Aura I wouldn’t be too worried about the suggested weight. I think the 146 for the Aura would be the best size for you. You could possibly do 148, but 150 too big for the Aura for you, IMO.
Equalizer sounds like a good option for what you’re describing too and I think the 146 is a good size for you.
Between the Hybrid Rocker (CRC) and Hybrid Camber (RCR), typically Hybrid Rocker feels a little on the looser side and Hybrid Camber a bit more stable. But it depends on how much rocker is involved and how much camber is involved. A Hybrid Rocker with a lot of camber and very little rocker can feel very stable or even semi-locked in. And a Hybrid Camber can feel on the looser side if there’s very little camber and a lot of rocker. The “Ripsaw Rocker” profile on the Aura is quite stable feeling, but probably just on the looser side compared to the Hel Yes and Equalizer.
Hope this helps
Yes, it’s very helpful. I’m leaning towards the Capita Equalizer because it has the longest effective edge of the three for carving. Are there any cons with the Equalizer? Reviews I’ve read make it sound good for everything: powder, trees, groomers.
Oh, of the three, how would you rank them for going slow on flats or going slow when navigating resort traffic? I’ve read some reviews on TheGoodRide suggesting that certain boards aren’t great at slow speeds? What contributes to that?
Last thing about bindings – any thoughts on the Union Trilogy/Legacy vs Burton Escapades/Lexas for these boards?
Thanks so much.
Hi Victoria
No glaring cons to the Equalizer. I would say it’s not ideal riding switch, but doable – and not amazing in the park for the likes of boxes/rails. But still fine for jumps. And decently buttery, without being ultra buttery. It’s not something that’s amazing in any one category, but certainly above average for carving, speed, trees and powder. I’d say the Equalizer probably the best for riding slow, followed by the Hel Yes, then the Aura, but all not that far apart.
A few things can contribute to a board not being great to ride at slow speeds – and bindings and boots can also contribute to how well your setup rides at slow speeds too. The main factor, IMO, is flex. Really stiff boards tend to be harder to ride slow – just a lot of effort to get them to turn when riding slow. Stiff boards also tend to be more stable at speed – so stiffer boards, in my experience, really come to life when riding fast and can actually become quite quick edge to edge when riding fast, but when you slow them down, they tend not to turn as easily as softer flexing boards. Other things, like width, sidecut, effective edge to contact length ratio and sizing all play a part too.
I would probably be leaning Legacy or Lexa for the Equalizer or any of these boards really, especially the Aura, which is a little stiffer. The Trilogy and Escapade would definitely work on the Equalizer though. There’s not really a wrong choice out of those for the Equalizer, but if I had to choose I’d be leaning Legacy/Lexa.
Hi Nate,
I am looking to purchase a new snowboard (women) and really appreciate your reviews! I am currently riding an old Santa Cruz board (purchased when I was 16) and am interested in the Yes Hel Yes or Jones Twin Sister for the medium flex and all mountain abilities.
I am 31 years old, 5’6″, 135 lbs, and wear a size 9/9.5 boot. I have been snowboarding for about 16 years but these days, I ride about 4-10 days a year (downside of living on the East Coast). I would say I’m an intermediate/advanced rider, as I love a black diamond groomer but haven’t yet mastered moguls or switch-riding. I often ride in different mountains with various snow conditions–Tahoe, Colorado, and West Virginia.
I’d be curious for your input on the Yes versus Jones, or any other suggestions. I also plan to get new bindings so any thoughts on those would be great!
Thanks!
Sally
Hi Sally
Thanks for your message.
Both boards are very good across various conditions. I’d say Hel Yes a little better in icy conditions but Twin Sister still good there.
Size-wise, I’d say around 148 in general, so it’s between the 146 and 149 for the Hel Yes and Twin Sister. For the Hel Yes, I’d probably be leaning 149 as the width is better for your boots. For the Twin Sister, either should be good width-wise.
For bindings, I would check out the following:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for all your really great insight and advice. I have been riding a for a few years now. I started on a 154 Burton Amplifier that my husband had bought for his son a while back. Once I had the basics down I bought a 153 Frenemy which was the perfect transition board. This year I started riding the 149 Feelgood which I am loving. I recently bought last year’s 152 Storyboard but haven’t tried it out yet. I ride more free ride, no park or jumps. I just like to cruise down the mountain and am starting to get more comfortable at higher speeds. I am considering adding to my quiver and think the Hel Yes might fit the bill. I ride out east mostly. My local shop has the 152 left in stock but I’m not sure if I should size up to the 155. I am 5’8″, 160lbs, and wear a size 9 boot. Any other thoughts on boards that I should consider adding to my quiver?
Hi Carrie
Thanks for your message.
I think the 152 would be the best size for you for the Hel Yes. The 155 certainly not out of range, and if you wanted it to be your longer freeride board, it’s an option for sure. But I would be leaning 152. Both would work fine width-wise, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate –
Thanks for all your great advice. This thread has been going for a long time and I’m glad you’re still taking questions. I am about to upgrade my board and am considering a 2020 Rossi Frenemy that I found at one of my local shops.
Background: I started snowboarding two years ago because I earned free tickets to Mt Hood Meadows. Bought a woman’s 2005 Burton FeelGood on Marketplace for $75. Obviously didn’t know what that was.
Fast forward to now, I’ve been pushing pretty hard on this thing and am proud to say that I have progressed to being an intermediate rider. That said, I still feel like my progress has been slower than others due to the aggressive nature of this board and because of the jenky step in bindings it came with (please don’t laugh!).
Obviously I’m eyeing the new Burton step-ins. But that’s another conversation.
Details: I am 31 years old, 117lbs, 5′ 3 and 1/2″ size 7.5 boots and am currently on a 149cm. Based on all your responses to other people I am afraid you are going to tell me that everything I’m looking at is too big for me! Anyway, I ride frequently and in all conditions, aspire to ride switch, and currently want a one-board-quiver.
After doing some research, I decided to order a 151cm 2019 Rome SDS Reverb Rocker, which is a camber/rocker/camber and a true twin. However, when I called the store to make the order they asked why I was looking at men’s equipment (you can laugh now!) Since learning that boards NOT labeled as “women’s” are gender specific, I am back to the drawing board, which is what ultimately led me to your article.
Based on everything you’ve said, I think the Frenemy will be a good option for me. I’ve been working really hard on the FeelGood and not feeling so good, and I want to have more fun on the mountain. I also took it as a sign that the Frenemy was available in 147 at my local shop. And the price is hard to beat (270!?)
That said, I must confess that I was really excited about the Reverb Rocker and I’m wondering if you can give me a better sense comparison between these two options or maybe refer me to something similar. The RR is at the far end of my size range and has a completely different camber, but it stood out to me as a solid board that would give me a lot of growth potential.
I have no doubt that the Frenemy will feel amazing after what I’ve been riding, but I’m also wondering if the Reverb Rocker might be a better challenge long term.
Please let me know what you think!
Susan
Hi Susan
Thanks for your message.
You are right, I am going to say that size-wise, I would err shorter for your specs. More like 141-143 ideally. But given that you’re used to riding a 149 and quite an aggressive 149 at that, you would probably fine going a little longer. I think the Frenemy would be a really good option from what you’re describing, but ideally the 144. Given what you’re used to riding, the 147 Frenemy will still feel a lot more easy going, so it’s doable for you, though typically I would say it’s too long.
Definitely wouldn’t go as long as the 151 Reverb Rocker though or that long for anything. The other thing with going for the Reverb Rocker 151 is that it’s going to be way too wide for your boots too. Width is also very important. The 151 Reverb Rocker would be a lot of hard work for you, IMO.
I don’t test Rome gear, so I couldn’t say what’s similar. But if you’re looking for something with a hybrid rocker profile (camber/rocker/camber), then there are certainly plenty of options around with those specs.
If you’re looking all-mountain, then the likes of the NS Infinity is a good option. You could also look at all-mountain-freestyle boards too. Particularly if you don’t see a lot of powder or if you don’t tend to ride in deep powder. If you do then sticking to something more all-mountain probably a good idea. But if you’re interested in all-mountain-freestyle, also checkout:
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
And this one might be worth a look at too:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thank you for this very thorough response! I checked out your other lists and saw several other boards I have been looking at. You’re totally right, the Reverb Rocker is going to be way too wide for me! I compared the specs and looks like it’s almost 9mm wider than the Frenemy!! The good news is that the 147 Frenemy is exactly the same width as my current board, so I decided to go for it. I do tend to ride a lot in powder so I think sticking with all mountain is the right choice. I’m shopping for boots tomorrow and am hoping to get out in the snow this weekend. Thanks for all your great advice!
You’re very welcome Susan. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get the Frenemy out on snow. Happy riding!
Hi Nate!
I’m in a similar boat to a commenter below who’s looking to upgrade their Frenemy. On your snowboarding levels spectrum, I’m a level 5, borderline 6. I’m mostly looking for something a little faster. I mostly ride groomers with occasional powder days, some trees, and infrequent icy terrain, though I want to start riding switch and playing with natural features, ollies, buttering, etc. I have no interest in the park.
5’3″, 128lb, size 6.5 boots
I was looking at the Hel Yes, but it looks like most women’s YES boards are sold out now. I’m scouring the used market and found these options:
– Jones Dream Catcher 148: seems long for me and the waist width is 240
– Jones Women’s Flagship 144: waist 237. An older model. I think 2017
– Nitro Drop 146: directional so maybe not ideal, but it has a narrower waist at 235
What are your thoughts on these, especially the Nitro? I’m also open to new if there’s a board that sounds like a slam dunk for me.
Hi Jenn
Thanks for your message.
Dream Catcher 148, I think is too big overall, especially when taking into account length and width.
The size of the Flagship is certainly a better fit, but it is quite a stiff board and quite directional also. Wouldn’t be that well suited to switch, ollies, buttering etc. Otherwise would work, but not great for those things.
I don’t know the Nitro Drop well, but I think that size would be doable. On paper it could work, but like you mention it’s quite directional, so won’t be the best for riding switch and freestyle stuff in general. It might be a little easier to butter than the Flagship as it looks like it’s not as stiff. Out of those I would be more inclined to the Nitro Drop, but not perfectly suited to what you’re describing.
I think something like the Dream Catcher in the 145 or if you were happy to sacrifice a little in terms of powder for more freestyle ability (but still good on groomers):
– Lib Tech No.43 146
– GNU Ladies Choice 145.5 (not as wide as it looks based on waist width. Still a little wide for you, but certainly not as wide as the Dream Catcher 148)
– Never Summer Women’s Proto Synthesis 145
– Jones Twin Sister 143 (it’s wide for you, but going shorter would make bring back some of the maneuverability lost for being wider)
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I thought I responded, and now I’m not sure if I did since I know you have to approve posts. Anyway, if not: thanks for your help! I’m intrigued by the asym boards. What do you think about last year’s Never Summer Women’s Proto Two in a 142 (all I could find)? My stance width is ~18″ so I thought it might be more appropriate too. Its range is 16.5 – 22″ vs 18-22.5″ for the 145 (2020).
I’m also considering a GNU Ladies Choice, 2017, 142.5cm. Is that too short? Even worse for powder? And what do you think about buying older boards like 2017 boards? Could the material degrade enough or the tech change enough in that time that it’s not worth the savings?
Thanks again.
Hi Jenn
Ladies Choice a little better in powder than the PT2, IMO, so as far as asym boards go, it’s one of the better in powder. And should be fine if you don’t see powder that often or if it’s not typically that deep.
2017 for the Ladies Choice, the main change since then for that board, is that it changed to a C2X camber profile from C2. Which basically means a little more camber in the C2X version and a little less rocker. So it was a little less camber dominant in the 2017 model. I think it changed to C2X for the 2018 model. I think in general, going back to 2017 is OK depending on the board. In this case, it depends if you’re OK with the different camber profile.
In terms of size, I don’t think 142.5 is wrong for you for the Ladies Choice. Both 142.5 and 145.5 will work, but will have different personalities. Some things to consider:
– The 142.5 won’t be as good for float in powder as the 145.5 and won’t feel as stable when riding fast
– The 142.5 will be easier for ollies, buttering and be more maneuverable at slower speeds and therefore better for tight spaces
The 142.5 is also better a better fit for your boot size.
Same differences between the 142 and 145 PT2. And again, both sizes work for your specs, just with subtly different strengths and weaknesses.
Also, the smaller versions will feel a little softer flexing than their longer counterparts.
So long as you can fit your stance width on the board, I wouldn’t necessarily choose the size based on that. But if that’s a tie breaker, then that’s another plus for the smaller size if you were to go PT2. But I before I chose based on that, I would look at whether you think you’d prefer a little longer for better powder float and stability at speed or the shorter length for better maneuverability/butterability.
Hello! I started riding last season and got a few days in before COVID shut everything down. This season, I have about 10 days in so far and am confidently connecting turns and riding blues in Utah. I’m looking forward to riding powder days, but this season has had some pretty hard snow so far. I’m interested in riding switch and mostly just cruising down the mountain and playing in powder. Not sure what else I’ll feel drawn to as I progress.
I’ve been borrowing an older (2013?) Burton Feather 144 and after reading a lot of reviews, just found and purchased a new Rossignol Frenemy 147 that was on sale. I’m 5’6 and 126 lbs, my snowboard boots are size US 7.5. My question is – should I continue to learn a bit more on the board I started with (Burton Feather 144) and wait until later in the season to hop on the new board or would I be better off getting on it right away? Also I guess I’m looking for validation that the frenemy `147 is a good size for me to have for the next few years.
Hi Emilee
Thanks for your message.
I would say the 147 is at the upper end of your range size-wise and more of a size for you as a more advanced rider. So I would probably continue to progress on the 144 Feather for now. However, if you wanted to give the Frenemy a go and see how you get on, you could. If you feel comfortable riding it, that’s great. But if you feel you’re struggling with it, I would go back to the Feather until you’ve progressed a bit more, rather than trying to force yourself to stick with it.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
I’m an advanced rider, been riding since I was 13 and I’m 32 now. My snowboard is a very old brand, I don’t think they even sell it anymore, but it’s still in good shape and I use it all the time. Last year I went to Vermont and tested out some new boards and it made me want one. I’m 5’3 and 125lbs…my board is 152, which I’m told is kind of big for my height? I ride with an aggressive stance. I’m looking for a board that’s mostly great with carving and ripping the trail, but would also be good on jumps/rails if I chose to do so. What do you suggest?
Hi Elisabeth
Thanks for your message.
Yeah it’s quite big for your specs overall. More so to do with weight than height these days. I would have you on around a 145/146, but given that you like to ride quite aggressively and since you’re used to a longer board for such a long time, I probably wouldn’t opt to go that much shorter, unless you think you would prefer shorter – or if you rode shorter boards when you were testing boards out and liked them. Otherwise, I would size down a little from 152, but maybe more in the range 148-150.
In terms of the board, I think you’re in the right place here with all-mountain boards. If you don’t really ride powder or not much, then you could also look at all-mountain-freestyle. From this list, I would be leaning towards YES Hel Yes and Jones Twin Sister, not just because they’re on the top of the list here, but because they strike a good balance in term of being good for carving/speed, but also good for jumps/rails. If you wanted to sacrifice a little on rails for more carving/speed, then the Burton Feelgood or Arbor Swoon Camber also come into play.
You could also check out the following, if you don’t really see powder much or don’t tend to ride in powder:
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Pay attention to the score breakdowns to see what might suit you best.
Hope this helps
Hi,
I am an advanced rider that lives on the East Coast so mostly doing groomed and icier runs but loves backcountry and tree runs. I do once a year go out West so want something that can also handle some backcountry power if needed. I currently ride an Ride snowboard (forget what model), 154 length and am 5’6″ 155lbs, size 10 shoe. I find this board less responsive than I would like so am looking to upgrade. I keep coming across the Yes Hel Yes, Ride WarPig, Gnu Essential Service and Jones Twin Sister. Any advice on differentiating between those 4? Thanks for the help
Hi Gabriela
Thanks for your message.
First thing I would do is size down a little. Particularly when it comes to trees, but even just on icy groomers, I think you’ll appreciate a slightly shorter board. For your specs, I would be looking at something 149-151, maybe 152, if you really want more stability at speed and float in powder, but I think as a balance between everything that 149-151 range would work best, IMO. Which for me puts the Essential Service out, given the shortest size is 155.
– YES Hel Yes 149 (or 152) would be a really good option, IMO, only concern is width. Depending on your brand of boots and your binding angles, I think you could get away with it width-wise. If you ride with a flat back foot (like a binding angle of 0 or 3 or something like that) and have bulky boots, then it might be little narrow. But with more angle on your bindings and/or lower profile boots, it’s a width you could get away with and would make a really good option, IMO.
– Jones Twin Sister 149 (or 152). Another really good option, IMO. And I don’t think you’d have any width issues. This board is quite wide at the inserts compared to the waist width, particularly if you’re riding it at it’s reference stance. But even if you ride at a narrower stance, the width should be all good, IMO.
– Not sure there’s a good size for the Warpig. The 148 is going to be way to wide at that length, IMO. The 142 would be your best option, IMO, but not sure you want to go that short? Also in my experience I didn’t find it to have great edge hold in hard/icy conditions. Not with Ride boards in general. Not terrible either by any means, but the Twin Sister and Hel Yes better in those types of conditions, IMO.
Hope this helps
thanks for the help, this is great. I was leaning towards the Jones Twin Sister and I think this seals the deal. Looking forward to trying the new board out!
You’re very welcome Gabriela. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it out on snow. Happy riding!
Hi Nate! Thanks a lot for your help with my setup. So, my friend ask me to write you some questions too 🙂 She is intermediate rider who prefer all-mountain riding and freeride. This season she she want to change her board (Rossignol Frenemy) for something more stiff. What can you say about Nidecker Princess? Will it be OK or too much for intermediate rider?
And what board can you reccomend?
Thank you.
Hi Elena
Good to hear from you again.
I don’t currently test Nidecker gear, so I can’t say anything from firsthand experience. On paper it looks like it’s a good option for how she likes to ride – certainly a freeride board. Because I’m not familiar with Nidecker I couldn’t say how it would feel in terms of flex, but from a little research it certainly looks like it would be stiffer than the Frenemy and overall quite an aggressive board from what I’ve read. Probably not ideal for an intermediate rider. Some good options that are freeride oriented, but an easier going ride (from what I can tell) than the Princess:
– Lib Tech Dynamiss
– Jones Dream Catcher
– Capita The Equalizer
– GNU Klassy
All a little more advanced and more freeride oriented than the Frenemy, but not too big a step in terms of ability and more suitable for an intermediate rider, IMO, than how the Princess looks to be on paper.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Yes, that’s really helps. My friend decide to go with Capita The Equalizer 🙂
Hi Elena.
Hope you both have an awesome season!
Thanks a lot! Hope you will have a great season too 🙂🏂
Hi Nate,
I am currently riding a Gnu B Nice 142.5 with Union Rosa bindings and size 6 Ride Sage boots. I am 5’3″ and about 120 lbs and I’ve been riding this setup for 2 seasons. I was looking at the Yes Hel Yes at the end of last season but was hesitant due to the smallest size being a 146 and decided to wait. This year Yes has the Hello which I noticed is like a softer version of the Hel Yes. I was thinking that I could get the Hel Yes for better carving, higher speeds, and for those occasional powder days here in NH. I was also thinking of getting a new set of Union Trilogy bindings to go with the new board. Do you think the Hello might be a better option since its a softer board at that larger size? If I were to get one of these boards do you think the B Nice could become a like park board for me? Also I’m slightly clueless 😅 which one do you think would perform better in the trees, the B Nice or one of the Yes boards? Thanks for all your help.
Hi Isabel
Thanks for your message.
146 is on the longer side for you, IMO. Doable, but I’d prefer to see you on something closer to 143, 144. Going with the Hello over the Hel Yes, would make it easier to manage for sure, so if you do go for one of those in a 146, I think that’s probably the best option.
The Trilogy would be a great match for the Hello, IMO.
The B Nice would make a really good park board option in that quiver, IMO.
In trees, the Hello and Hel Yes would go better in trees when there’s lots of powder in there, IMO. Without much powder, I’d say fairly similar length-for-length, but the B-Nice potentially a little better, just because it’s shorter.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the response as it really does help a lot. I ultimately agree with you on size. I guess I was hoping I might be able to get away with it since I was a fan of the Hel Yes, but I’m sure I can find a board that’s literally a better fit for me, lol. Thanks for the insight on the bindings, potential 2 board quiver, and performance in the trees as well. It looks like I’ll need to do some more shopping around. I’ve had a good look through your site, but I know not all the boards are necessarily similar to each other. Would you be willing to point me in the direction to some comparable options that I could look further into?
Hi Isabel
Some comparable options:
– Jones Twin Sister 143
– Jones Dream Catcher 145 (this is a board you can ride a little longer – i.e. it feels smaller than the overall length suggests – you could go
– Salomon Rumble Fish 144 (not quite as good in powder as the 2 above, but still OK, and if you don’t see it that much, should be fine)
– Rossignol Frenemy 144
I’ve chosen these as boards with similar camber profiles and flex to the Hel Yes and Hello (and suitable for how you describe your riding). There are other options like:
– GNU Ladies Choice
– Lib Tech Dynamiss
That would also work.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for such amazing review and information.
I need your advice in choosing the right board lenght.
I found a good deal (50 % off, yay for off season sales!) on Burton Feelgood and I am wondering if I should get a 146 or a 149.
Stats:
5’4, 127 lbs, size 8 boots
Previous board that I owned:
Burton freedom (back in the days, Victoria Jealouse’s pro board) 152 (was a bit long)
Boards that I currently have :
Burton Malolo 149 (year 2007, 50 cm setback) : love it for carving and riding powder, when there is some. The lenght feel good.
Ride OMG 147 (year 2014) : I bought the board to be able to learn to ride switch and still be able to carve. The lenght feel good as well, yet sometime I wished it was maybe setback or maybe a bit longer ? Yet, it is easier to ollie then my Malolo (long nose!)
Type of riding I do :
Groomers, ride fast & carve mainly – I am an advanced rider for just riding along
Trees riding
I don’t go in the park or pipe
I would like to keep learning to ride switch and learn to do butter, ollie higher, maybe do an 180 while riding off an ollie if i can.. As you can see, I want a fast board that can carve as it’s mainly what I do, but that can provide me with the opportunity for learning some new thing. But I have no interest in the park and I know that I will want to keep going fast and carve, thus do not want a too soft or short a board.
I will get the Feelgood in either 146 or 149, but I also intend of getting the Hel Yes in either 146 or 149, if I can find a demo and try it before. I will probably sell my Ride OMG and keep my Malolo for pow.
Will I notice a difference between the 146 or 149 Feelgood ? What about tight turns, medium and big radius turns ?
(Intuitivly, I’m thinking the 149 will feel like my Malolo for carving, but the 146 will be easier to ollie. Yet, can the 146 still be fast and be stable, as it is stiff ?)
What about the 146 or 149 Hel Yes ?
Thank you very much for your recommendation and your advice !
Hi Catherine
Please see my response to your comment on the Burton Feelgood Review
Hi Nate,
I have gone snowboarding maybe 10-15 times, and I have been using rental boards. I am now ready to buy a board. Since its off season I have found some pretty good deals on gear. I am looking to getting the arbor swoon, but I can’t decide whether to get the camber or rocker version. I want an all mountain board that will work in my conditions. I live in Southern California, and mostly ride Bear mountain, and at times go to Mammouth if I can. I am also looking at getting the union trilogy bindings. Will that be a good match with the arbor board? Also, what size board do you recomend, I am looking at a 144cm. I want this board to last, and I’m only 15 so I should still have a couple of years left to grow. For reference, I am 5’2”, about 115 lbs, and wear a size 7.5 boot. Thanks, anything will help.
Hi Amy
Thanks for your message.
I would go for the rocker version, if I was you. Firstly, because I think it would be the better option for you in terms of skill level and because it’s probably better for the conditions you’ll ride in. But that’s assuming you want to take advantage powder when you get it. If you think you probably won’t venture off piste at all, and you think you’ll probably be a more aggressive rider (i.e. riding fast, doing big carves etc), then that would make me lean a little more towards the camber. But otherwise, I would go rocker for you.
Size-wise, I think ideally you’d get the 140. But I definitely understand that it’s an investment getting a board and there’s often a lot of research involved, so I get the need to want something that will last you. I’m not a big fan of getting a board to “grow into” because it can slow/limit your progression, particularly if it’s way off. But in your case, given that you’ve still got growing to do, I get it and I think that’s doable. 144 is a little big for your specs right now, IMO, but it’s not way off. I think at around 5’4″/5′”5 and around 120lbs/125lbs, then it becomes a very good size.
Width-wise, both the 140 and 144 would work fine, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate!
Thank you so much for your awesome website. I have been trying to decide between the Jones Dreamcatcher and Twin Sister, and finally chose the Dreamcatcher. My question concerns size. I am an intermediate rider 5’7″, 138pounds with an 8 boot size. I have been riding a Burton Feelgood 152 for the last 12 years. I usually rind on piste and like to carve. I don’t ride in parks or do any jumping, nor do I ride switch. I am pretty boring and just like to bomb downhill. Powder is my favorite, but have not gotten to ride in it much the last few years. I ride in the West and South West.
I purchased the Dreamcatcher 151 as requested by the folks at Jones. I just received it and it is a lot wider than I expected. I am considering exchanging it for the 148. What do you think?
Thanks so much for your help!
Warm Regards,
Sarah
Hi Sarah
Thanks for your message.
Yeah the Dream Catcher is a little wider than normal (typical of a lot of Jones boards). And usually I would say something around 148, 149 for your specs, as an intermediate rider would be the way to go. But for a couple of reason’s I prefer the 151 for you for the Dream Catcher. Firstly, because you’re already used to a 152 – and secondly, the 152 you’re used to will have a lot more effective edge than the 151 Dream Catcher.
But going shorter on a board that’s on the wide side is also a legit thing to do, so it’s a tough call. Usually I would say if you’re looking at 149 Mountain Twin, then go 151 Dream Catcher. And I think 149 Mountain Twin would be the way to go for you. I’m hesitant to say go down to 148 for the Dream Catcher though, especially as you’re used to the 152 Feelgood, and going down to 148 Dream Catcher would be a big drop in effective edge.
In terms of width, just looking back at the specs of older Feelgood’s, it looks like there was a 240mm waist width on the 152. The Dream Catcher has a 242mm waist width. So in terms of waist it’s not that much wider. But in terms of width at inserts it’s a good bit wider. I would estimate the Feelgood 152’s width at inserts is likely no more than 250mm. The Dream Catcher 151 on the other hand is 255mm at the tail insert and 257mm at the nose insert (at reference stance). So a good bit wider. Usually wide enough that I would say size down, but my biggest concern there is effective edge for you. Part of the reason that the Dream Catcher is wider is because of quite a wide reference stance of 550mm (21.6″). If you were to ride it narrower, say at 510mm (20″), then that would make it feel narrower – likely around 253mm at the back insert and 255mm at the front. Still decently wider than the Feelgood, but would narrow it up a little.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hello Nate,
Great information on women boards, there are brands I never heard of. Thanks for that.
I want to upgrade to a new board also, been riding for I guess 15 years but bought a used board back than for beginners not knowing anything about snowboarding.
I always go to AUSTRIA when it comes to winter vacation for the great mountains. I love to go fast with the snowboard so that my friends who all ski don’t have to wait for me all the time. When there is a little more time, I love to carve but I don’t really go in the park for flips or anything, I guess I’m too scared to hurt myself. When it’s snowing I love the powder but I don’t go a lot off the track (I got lost a couple of times in front of water holes and had to walk in the deep snow – too much honestly😉😁).
What would your recommendation be for me? Do you know the board Nitro Victoria? I went for a test run and liked the speed.
Cheers Stefanie
Hi Stefanie
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden many Nitro boards, so I’m not that familiar with them, and I haven’t ridden the men’s equivalent of the Victoria, so I can’t give you much on that one.
But looking at the specs, sounds like it’s a mid-stiff board with a full camber profile. So probably quite an aggressive ride for speed and carving, which it sounds like you’re mostly into. It’s got a directional sidecut, a longer nose than tail and a small setback. So it’s relatively directional, which is probably going to suit you as well, unless you like to ride switch a lot. Probably not going to be the best in powder, just not having any rocker in the profile, but not the worst either, given it’s directional nature. If you’re not riding powder that much, or if you’re never in really deep powder, then it will do the job fine.
The closest equivalent in this list is the Burton Feelgood.
From this list in general, I would be looking at the Feelgood, Swoon Camber, Hel Yes or Twin Sister. The other’s aren’t going to give you the kind of speed performance you’re looking for, I don’t think. If you don’t go Nitro Victoria but want similar, the Feelgood or Swoon Camber are the closest, especially the Feelgood. If you wanted just a bit more forgiveness, then the Twin Sister or Hel Yes are the way to go.
If you’re not riding any switch or freestyle and want a bit more in terms of powder performance, then you could also check out:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I am running GNU B-Nice now and hope to have an upgrade. I am looking on sales boards in Canada and only ROSSIGNOL Justice and Frenemy are on sales here. Would you recomment me go Justice or Frenemy? Hope to know if it will be a necessnary upgrade from B nice, or you recomment other boards? I am pretty intermediate riders, learning true carving now, next step maybe pratice small jumps during normal ride. I am 166cm and 51 kg without gears with boots size women 7.
thanks,
Hi Lynn
Thanks for your message.
As an intermediate rider and based on what you’re describing, I think the Frenemy would be a good step up from the B Nice, without reaching too far. The Justice is quite a stiff flexing option, and might be a step too far – and would also make it quite difficult to learn small jumps as well. I think the Frenemy would be a really good step up.
Size-wise, I think the 144 would be your best bet for the Frenemy, for sure. In general I would say around 142-144 for your specs as an intermediate rider.
Hope this helps with your decision
I’m an intermediate to low-advanced rider and I’m interested in upgrading. I’m 5’4” and weigh 140lbs. If it helps; I don’t go in the park, I ride goofy most of the time but do enjoy riding switch every once in awhile. (Riding conditions: I live in BC and my home mountain is Big White but I tour throughout other BC resorts when I can) I currently ride a 149cm YES Emoticon with RIDE Bindings, the board is good but I don’t feel comfortable going fast. I like to carve and ride on edges yet I don’t feel stable on this board. I am looking for an all mountain board that would not be too stiff (still be nice is softer snow) but will let me carve a bit more and feel stable at higher speeds but also one that I can use in powder.
Hi Heather
Thanks for your message.
If you otherwise like your Emoticon, then I think the Hel Yes would be a good option. It’s a good step up and would certainly give you more in terms of carving, speed and powder. It’s a stiffer flex than the Emoticon for sure, but it’s not overly stiff. Something that you can still ride switch on too – but overall a little more directional. I would stick with 149. I think that’s a good size for you.
But if you wanted to change brands, then the Jones Twin Sister is also a good option, that would fit what you’re describing too.
You could also look at some freeride options (they’re often but not always stiffer, so we could look at softer (around that 6/10 flex mark) options if you were interested), but you would be sacrificing in terms of switch with those. Let me know if you wanted to check those out, and I can give you some good options, otherwise, I think the Hel Yes or Twin Sister would work really well for what you’re describing.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
You have great information for women riders, thank you! I’m looking at getting a new board and wondering what you recommend? Currently looking at the 2020 YES Hel Yes 149 or 152 and the 2020 Jones Twin Sister 149 or 152.
I’m an intermediate rider (level 5/6 based on your chart) and I’m looking to advance and go a bit faster. I’m 5’2”, 160lbs, wear 2018 Vans Aura Boa 8.5 boots, and have 2018 Burton Women’s Lexa Re:flex Bindings. I ride primarily in Tahoe and a little in CO.
I currently ride a 2008 Arbor Cadence 146 that I’ve been riding from 2008-2011, 2015-now. Kids caused a bit of a hiatus from riding, but now I’m able to ride more often again, yay!
The Arbor has been really good to me, it’s been great riding it and it really grew with me as a rider, but now I don’t always feel confident with it holding an edge on sometimes icy/crusty conditions and sometimes at high speeds it doesn’t feel super stable. This could just be that it’s too small of a board for me now?
I enjoy cruising the mountain and I want a board that can go everywhere with me, from enjoying the steeps, bowls, and trees, to cruising more slowly with the kids. All of this diverse terrain in varying conditions from powder to icy, to spring slush-this will be my one board. If I visit the parks, I’m only doing little jumps and boxes.
Thanks so much for all of your help!
Hi Courtney
Thanks for your message. Awesome that you’re able to ride more now. I have 2 small kids but fortunately as I do this I get to ride a lot still, but my wife isn’t able to get out as much as she used to for now, but hopefully will be able to get out more as the kids get bigger.
Size-wise, I would say something around 148-150 is a good range to look at, so yeah I think you could do with a little more length over your current 146. The Cadence is more of a freestyle focused board, so going with something more versatile like the Hel Yes or Twin Sister is a great idea too, given how you describe your riding. Both would work really well for what you’re describing, IMO – they are very versatile boards for everywhere on the mountain and in all conditions.
So, yeah I would go 149 for either. 152 isn’t crazy big for you, but it’s on the bigger side, and I think 149 is right in the sweet spot for your specs and how you describe your riding.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I’m thinking about a new board that is still good for all mountain riding, but goes a bit better in the powder as I live in Japan. I don’t spend much time in the park, but am often in fairly dense trees and it can get pretty icy in the afternoons. I have an oldish K2 ecopop 155cm which I still love for resort riding but do struggle a bit when the powder is deep and terrain is not that steep – ( ie – most of the time for Japan) and thinking it could be time for a new board. I also have a jones solution splitboard 156cm which I’m playing around with in the backcountry but I still spend more time in side country.
From reading reviews I’m considering yes hel yes, but it seems hard to find it and especially in the bigger sizes. Do you have any other recommendations?
I’m 172cm and about 65kg and probably somewhere between intermediate and advanced and have some joint issues so taking it a bit easier these days.
Hi Cate
Thanks for your message.
The Jones Twin Sister would also be a good option, and comes in a 155, if that’s the kind of size you’re looking to stick to. Should give a bit more in terms of float in powder vs the Ecopop. Good in hard/icy conditions too.
There are also more directional options you could consider. Boards that are still going to go well on groomers – not like powder specialist boards, but that are a little better in powder. There are some good options in that area (freeride boards) that aren’t too stiff as well, if you’re not looking to go too stiff (your joints may not like it if you go too stiff). You could check out the following for some good options.
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
If you want to expand on that list, let me know and I can find some other suitable options.
Size-wise, you could even go a little shorter if you wanted – 152-ish. But if you’re comfortable in that 155 range or want to keep things longer for more float in powder, then all good. But typically for your specs, I’d say more around 152. Going a little shorter would sacrifice a little in terms of float, but would be better in the trees.
Hope this helps
Thanks for this advice Nate, it is really helpful. I have actually also been thinking about something more directional and a bit shorter to help in the trees, so your words are convincing me it could be a good idea. I don’t mind sacrificing a bit in terms of speed, riding switch and jumping, as long as I have something all purpose enough I can still have fun when there isn’t fresh snow.
Looking at the freeride list, the Dreamcatcher seems to fit this profile pretty well. Any others?
Hi Cate
Yeah, I think the Dream Catcher would work well for that. A couple of others that come to mind are the GNU Klassy (151 or 155 options) and Capita Equalizer (150 is the longest size).
Hi Nate,
I didn’t see a reply link on your last message, so I’m creating this new thread.
I know that the Ladies Choice is an asymmetrical board and riding with a duck stance is suggested but I’m more of a directional rider. I hardly ride switch so my bindings are set up at +15/0. Will this stance work for the Ladies Choice? Also, will moving my bindings back a little be doable so that I can get through powder? The magne-traction is leaning me more towards this board now.
Hi Denise
You can ride an asym board without a duck stance, but it’s recommended to ride it with one. You could also set back on it. I haven’t tried it on asym and it might be weird but I’m not sure.
But since you’re more of a directional rider and want that powder performance, then I think you’d be better off going for a board that’s already designed and setup to do that. If you wanted to go something similar-ish to the Ladies Choice, but with an already directional setup and something that would suit your binding angles more, I would look at the GNU Klassy. It’s got the magne-traction too and the same camber profile as the Ladies Choice, but it’s designed already with a setback stance and is a directional ride already. I think something like that would be more suitable.
Thanks for all your help Nate! I actually decided on the Jones Twin Sister, 146cm 🙂 Super excited to receive this board and ride this weekend. I did change my binding stance to +15/-3 and might try to gradually go to +15/-15 and see how I like it.
You’re very welcome Denise. Awesome that you have your new deck sorted! Hope it treats you well and you have an awesome time on it. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Nate,
First impressions is the Twin Sister is amazing!!! I definitely felt how fast it wanted to go once I got off the lift. It’s amazing on groomers and turning was very easy to get used to. I paired the board with Burton Lexa bindings and they both worked really well together. I will say since the board is a lot stiffer compared to my Deja Vu, I lost my balance a few times on uneven terrain but no worries it was something I had to get used to. The Twin Sister is not as forgiving as the Deja Vu but the speed makes up for it. This board definitely wants to go fast and I didn’t lose speed even on flat green/blue runs. I was even able to keep up with my boyfriend who rides a Lib Tech T Rice Pro and he goes FAST. Mammoth unfortunately didn’t have any powder this weekend but I hope I get to take my board to Tahoe at the end of this month to see some fresh pow. This board has definitely gave me more confidence and never did I once feel like I was going to slip on thin cover groomers or hard packed snow. I didn’t realize how fast I could go until I got on this board. I love it. Thank you so much again!!
Hi Denise
Awesome to hear that you’re getting on with the Twin Sister! And thanks for the feedback – always love to hear people’s opinions and insights.
Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
I’m an intermediate to advanced rider. I’m interested in upgrading and I’ve been doing some research on some new snowboards. I currently ride a Burton Deja Vu Flying V, size 146cm. I love the board when the snow is soft but I don’t feel comfortable going fast during icy conditions. I live in Southern California and board just about around this area only. I ride mostly at Mammoth and Bear Mountain. I want a hybrid board that holds an edge in icy conditions and also does well in powder. I don’t do much in the park if that helps. I’m also 5’3 and weigh 145lbs. Some boards that I have on my list are:
Jones Dream Catcher
Jones Twin Sister
Yes Hel Yes
Capita Paradise
Burton Day Trader
Burton Story Board
If you could choose your top 3 to help me narrow down my search that would be super helpful.
Hi Denise
Thanks for your message.
For what you’re describing, the top 3 from there would be the Hel Yes, Dream Catcher and Twin Sister. They are the best 3 from that list in hard/icy conditions, IMO. Something like the Day Trader or Story Board could work, but you wouldn’t see as much improvement in hard/icy conditions as the Jones/YES options there. You would see some improvement vs the Deja Vu Flying V though – so if you just wanted some improvement in icy conditions they could come back in to it. Noting that between them, that the Story Board is a little stiffer. The Paradise s OK in powder, but not as good as the others on this list – and not as good for hard/icy as the HY, TS & DC. So yeah, if you’re looking for that significant increase, then I’d go one of those.
Size-wise, I would think about going a little longer too – up to 145-147. If you know you like shorter boards, it’s not something you have to do – but based on specs/ability/how you describe your riding, I think that would be a good size range to look at.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much for all the info. The Hel Yes is sold out so I think I’m now deciding between the Jones Twin Sister, Dream Catcher, and the Lib Tech No 43. What do you think about the 43?
Also, for the Twin Sister and No 43, I see there is only 146cm and 149cm. Do you suggest I go to the 149cm? For the Dream Catcher I would also be in between the 145cm and 148cm, so I’m not sure if I should size down or go up for that one. I wear a size 9 boot if that helps.
Hi Denise
The No.43, IMO, isn’t as suitable for powder as the Jones options. Will be fine in shallow powder, but when it gets deeper will be more of a fight to keep the nose afloat. Otherwise a good option, but if you need more in powder, then Mountain Twin or Dream Catcher are the better options, IMO.
Sorry size-wise I said to size up and then basically gave you the same size you’re already on! For some reason, I was thinking your Deja Vu was a 143.
For the Mountain Twin I would say 146 and for the Dream Catcher 148. The Dream Catcher is a board you can ride a little longer. For the No.43 I’d say 146. But it’s probably getting a bit narrow for size 9s. Even the 149 No.43 could be pushing it. I know it looks similar to the Dream Catcher 148 in terms of waist width, but it’s narrower at the inserts vs the Dream Catcher. You’d probably still be OK on the 149, but I would say that the 146 is the slightly better length for you, and that’s getting quite narrow for 9s, IMO.
Thanks so much Nate, your insight is helping me but also is making me more curious! I just looked up the waist width on the No 43 and wow it’s pretty narrow. Well more narrow than my Deja Vu. So I think that option for me is eliminated.
What do you think about the GNU Ladies Choice and Pro Choice in comparison to both Jones Dream Catcher and Twin Sister? I’ve read the GNU boards have a good edge hold but to me it seems more of a park board. Also, what size would you recommend for the GNU?
Hi Denise
Yeah the Ladies Choice/Pro Choice have really good edge hold. The Pro Choice is predominantly camber and a little more aggressive vs the Ladies Choice. The Ladies Choice is also a little better in powder, so for you, I would be looking at Ladies Choice. I would call the Ladies Choice all-mountain-freestyle. Not strictly a park board – something that certainly performs very well in the park, but can ride the rest of the mountain well too. More freestyle/park focused than the likes of the Twin Sister/Dream Catcher, but not strictly park. A similar kind of board to the No.43. It’s not going to be as good in powder vs the Jones options, but it’s just a little better in powder than the No.43, IMO.
Size-wise it’s a tough choice between the 145.5 and the 148.5. I would be leaning towards the 145.5 though. You’d get that little bit more in terms of speed and powder out of the 148.5, but overall I think the 145.5 is the better fit. The 145.5 is likely a little narrower overall, at the inserts vs the De Ja Vu, but I think it’s doable, especially with +15/-15 binding angles. Note that the Ladies Choice is an asym board (different heel edge vs toe edge), so riding it with a mirror duck stance is preferred for it. I really like the feel of Asym twins personally, but just thought you should know that’s what it is, in case that’s not something you want.
Hi Nate
first of all i am blown away by your knowlege, and i hope you can help me with deciding witch All mountain board to buy ( i am loosing my mind here, trying to get the “perfect board”;))
I am a woman on intermediate level, been riding about 10 yeas on a Jeenyus camber 148, witch might has been too short and has definitely been stopping me to progress some times (it is super catchy and I have been falling flat hard a lot) and it does requires a lot of effort and energy. On the other hand it did force me to have a very good technique.
I am 180cm tall and 62 kg, my boots are us size 9 (both Boots and binding are Burton – medium flex).
I am looking for a board that is very catch free, but still stable at speed, I am not super fast, but want to be more confident on a new board to gain more speed. i do like to ride switch, do butters and play around, but not in the park
I ride mostly pistes and a little bit of powder and trees (my riding bodys are all skiing). Mostly in Austia and France.
These are the ones that i am intersted in:
Burton feelgood Flying V
Burton Yeasayer Flying V
Burton Yeasayer flat top
Arbor Swoon rocker
Jones Twinsister
Or??
I was told that the flying V, is difficult to manage in flatter terrains (riding from mountain to mountain) have you any experience with that?
Thank you so much in advance and sorry for the novel 🙂
Best Mie
Hi Mie
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of size, I think you could size up a little, but I wouldn’t go too much bigger. I think something around 150, 151 would be a good bet for you.
The Flying V profile can make things a little trickier when traversing, but it’s nothing too bad. The Flying V is quite a loose feeling profile, that’s very catch-free and easy to ride. The medium flex of the Feelgood Flying V somewhat counters that looseness, compared to if it was softer flexing, but still pretty loose feeling. The edge-hold in hard/icy conditions isn’t great with the Flying V either, so that’s certainly something to consider. In softer snow, it’s a very good option though, IMO.
Unlike the Feelgood camber, the Flying V version is softer flexing, as well as having that different camber profile – so the Flying V version is more like 5/10 flex vs the 7/10 flex on the Feelgood. The Yeasayer is a little softer again – maybe like 4/10. The Flat Top version is a little more stable feeling than the Flying V and feels a little stiffer too. It’s still quite catch-free, but not quite as loose a feel to it. The Swoon Rocker is probably around a 5.5/10 flex – it feels just a touch softer than the Camber version (which tends to be the case with camber vs rocker). It’s also on the looser side with all that rocker, but Arbor’s rocker isn’t as loose feeling as other “all rocker” boards, but still relatively loose.
The Twin Sister is a very stable feeling board, and I would say the most stable feeling of the list. It’s a little stiffer too. 6/10 flex I would say or maybe even a touch more. You could ride the Twin Sister a little shorter than that suggested range (i.e. going for the 149 vs the 152) if you wanted to mellow it out a bit. It’s not overly aggressive by any means – not to the extent of something like the Feelgood camber, but it’s a little more board to handle vs the others on the list. But I wouldn’t call it catchy.
Overall, I think if you’re OK with a loose feeling and little bit wobbly on those traverses, and don’t see too much in the way of hard/icy conditions, then the Feelgood Flying V or the Yeasayer Flat Top could work well. But if you want a more stable feel, with better edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, in a slightly more advanced ride (but still good for a solid intermediate rider), then the Twin Sister would be what I’d go with. The Arbor Swoon rocker has a little better edge-hold, so that’s something that’s a little looser than the Twin Sister, but not as loose as the Flying V, but a little better edge-hold vs the Flying V.
Overall, from what you’re describing, I would be leaning Twin Sister. You could also check out the following, if you wanted more options (don’t want to confuse things more, but just wanted to make sure you have all the options at hand).
>>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate
Thank you so much for your reply, it was really helpfull!
I have decided that the flying v and rocker profile is not for me, it is going to be too unstable in cat tracks and when flat basing.
But i would love to get help and expertise again.
so i have narrowed it down (and aded a few) to Jones ,twin sister or the dream catcher,
Yes, emoticon
Capita, Paradise.
my bindings are Burton Custom size S.
Thanks a lot.
Best Mie
Hi Mie
I would say the Emoticon and Paradise are both a little more easy going than the Twin Sister or Dream Catcher but certainly not loose feeling. So, based on what you described in your first comment, I feel like they might be a good way to go.
The Emoticon (4/10) is a little softer flexing than the Paradise (5/10) with the Emoticon having the better edge hold in hard/icy conditions. But both are certainly more of a stable feel as opposed to a looser feel. Neither are great in deep powder, but if you’re not really in anything too deep, they should be fine. The Paradise a little better in powder vs the Emoticon. The Paradise also better at speed. The Emoticon is more buttery, but the Paradise is pretty buttery too. Both more buttery than the Twin Sister and Dream Catcher. Both easy to maneuver for trees etc.
Size-wise, for the Emoticon, I’d say it’s between the 149 and 152. There’s not a lot of tip and tail going on there, so there’s quite a bit of effective edge compared to overall length, which makes me lean slightly towards the 149. Of course if you wanted to improve it’s stability at speed and float in powder, the 152 would help there.
For the Paradise, the 149 is the longest option, and I would say that’s the shortest you’d want to go with that particular board, so if you went Paradise, I’d go with the 149.
Oh and apologies, I liked you to the wrong intermediate list in my last comment. Should have been:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Some other options, if you haven’t already considered them would be the Salomon Rumble Fish, Never Summer Infinity and Rossignol Frenemy.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for sharing all the information online, the input you provide is great! I’m boarding for the past 18 years and I think I can say I’m an intermediate to advanced level boarder. I’m in the process of buying a new board and was wondering if you can offer some help.
I’m really excited about step on system from Burton and I think I’m set on that. I will get Felix boots in size 8,5 or 9 and appropriate burton bindings. I’m 5’-7” tall and 126 lbs. I need to find an appropriate board. I mostly board on East Coast, but I also do sometimes trips to West Coast. I enjoy trails and easy carving down the mountain, but also like to pick up on some speed when the terrain allows and even go off trail sometimes. So definitely in search for an all mountain board. I was looking at Yes Hel Yes, but the board is all sold out. Now I’m looking at the Burton Feelgood board, but the fact that you are describing it as an aggressive board is a bit scary to me. Would I be better of with Jones Twin Sister, you scored them the same. I was wondering if you can provide your perspective and advise on appropriate size for me.
Your help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Hi Anya
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, based on how you describe your riding, I would be going with the Twin Sister. I would have also said Hel Yes, but sounds like it’s not available. The Twin Sister I think would be a better balance between aggressive and playful for you – and better in icy conditions for the East Coast riding.
Size-wise, I would go 146 for the Twin Sister for you.
A good match with the Felix too, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi,
thank you for your fast response. I’m doing some more research and I’m wondering if you can provide some comparison between Twin Sister and Dream Catcher? Are both equally good? I also run into the Capita Birds of a Feather and Equalizer and I was wondering what you think about it compared to Jones Twin Sister?
Thank you again, your help is really appreciated since there is a flood of snowboards out there and buying one can get quite complicated.
Hi Anya
The Dream Catcher is a slightly more directional board and has some different strengths and weaknesses but still a good board. You can check out my review on it to do a more thorough comparison:
– Jones Dream Catcher Review
The Birds of a Feather is a more aggressive board and a little more freestyle focused. Not great in powder and not as good in hard/icy conditions as the Jones options, IMO.
The Equalizer is a more directional option and a solid all-round choice too. Still not quite as good in hard/icy as the Jones options, but otherwise a good all-round option. Vs the Twin Sister, very similar in terms of carving, & powder. Not quite as good at speed, but a little better in uneven terrain. A little better for jumps but not as good for switch.
So based on what you’re describing, I would probably not go Birds of a Feather, but the Dream Catcher and Equalizer are viable alternatives – hope this gives you more to go off.
Hi Nate,
Thank you again. I did a full circle 🙂 Back on Jones Twin Sister, I think it is the best option for me. I just want to verify the size. 146cm hits me right a bit above my shoulder and 149 a little below my chin. Do you still think I should go with 146 size? I feel it is a tough one since the weight recommendations are so vague. For 146 the weight is between 100-150 and for 149 the weight is between 110-160. Pretty much overlapping. Your input is greatly appreciated!
Hi Anya
I do like to take height into account, but the most important factors for sizing are weight and boot size, so I wouldn’t worry too much about where the board sits, in terms of your chin or anything like that. 149 certainly isn’t way off for your specs. I put you roughly on about a 148, as a standard length for an all-mountain board, assuming an advanced level. So could have gone to either 146 or 149. I went 146 for a couple of reasons. Firstly, you described yourself as intermediate to advanced. I usually take off a little length for an intermediate level. Since you’re at least on the cuff of it, I wouldn’t necessarily take off size for that alone but that in addition to the other factors. Secondly, it doesn’t sound like you’re an overly aggressive rider and usually I would err longer for more aggressive riders. Thirdly, the Twin Sister is quite wide at the inserts compared to the waist, so it’s overall a wider feeling board. I usually err on the shorter length option if a board is a little wider, depending on boot size. So, overall I erred slightly shorter, rather than slightly longer.
In saying that, the 149 is certainly not out of the picture. One other thing to consider is what you’re used to riding, and if you have a preference for certain lengths. Like if you’re used to riding north of 150, let’s say, then going 149 probably makes more sense. Or if you know that you’ve ridden boards around that 146 and found them too short, then going up to 149 makes sense. On the info, I would go 146 for you. But I would definitely take into account what you’re used to riding and adjust from there if you need too – particularly since you’ve been riding for 18 years.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for posting this! Really helpful to learn more about snowboard profiles.
I’m 5’7 and 163lbs and have been riding LTR rental boards (148-149cm) mostly in the east coast for the past 2 seasons, averaging about 10-12days per season. I would say i’m high-end beginner level as I managed to do blue runs in the east coast quite comfortably in good snow condition towards the end of last season.
This year I’m planning to venture out west to utah/colorado/tahoe. I’m ready for my first board and have demo the burton feel good 149cm in hard icy condition, and it was brutal, barely managed a blue run. (there was only one type of board at the resort). I was suggested the burton yeasayer 148 or rome kashmir as a start board. However, i am also looking at a couple of used board options. Would the burton feather 149 or burton genie or salomon lotus 149 suit my profile? Or do you think i should stick with the feel good if i won’t be on icy conditions? Any recommendations will be appreciated! Thank you!
Forgot to add, i wear a shoe size 8.
Hi Sylvia
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of length, I would say something between 150 and 153 for your specs, as a high-end beginner. Width-wise, I would go at least 233mm at the waist, to be safe, but no more than 243mm at the waist, if possible.
The Feelgood, assuming you rode the camber version, is a very advanced board – quite stiff and traditional camber. Pretty much the opposite of what’s good for a beginner and a long long way from the LTR! So, I wouldn’t suggest getting that board – it’s a lot of board to handle. The Feelgood Flying V version is more doable for a high-end beginner going on intermediate rider.
The Yeasayer (whether the flat-top of flying v version) is a much more easy going option and definitely doable. You could ride the 148, if you wanted to stick to a similar size that you’ve been riding and to make it even more easy going, or you could go 152 if you wanted as well – though the 152 is getting quite wide for your boots, IMO.
I don’t test Rome gear, so I don’t really know how accurate their flex ratings tend to be but just looking at the specs, I think the Kashmir will be too stiff (rated 7/10 flex). Also it’s a purely flat profile. Preferably I think you’d want some rocker in the profile. Again, I don’t know how Rome’s profile tend to feel, but looking at the specs, I wouldn’t be that keen on the Kashmir for you.
The Burton Feather is a very beginner friendly, easy going board – and would be great for your progression, IMO. The only question would be whether you could grow out of it too quickly. The same goes for the Genie. Note that the Genie is more freestyle focused and the Feather more freeride focused. So, if you did get one of those, then I would go Feather if you think you want to ride powder in the future, or already are, and Genie if you think you want to learn tricks, jumps, jibs etc. The Lotus is also beginner friendly, though maybe not quite as beginner friendly because of the profile, but still pretty soft flexing.
I would say the Yeasayer, of the boards you have mentioned, is the best option as a balance between being easy enough to progress on, but being something that you won’t grow out of too quickly. For more options that match that description, also check out:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Or if you want the easiest possible progression and aren’t worried about growing out of it too quickly, check out:
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi! Thanks for the helpful reviews.
I plan to replace my gear (from 2013) this year, and I wanted your opinion. I’m 5’2 and 150 lbs. I’ve been snowboarding for about 15 years, and I would consider myself a high intermediate / low advanced boarder. I love carving groomers, bowls, and trees and playing around on natural features.
Initially, I would typically spend 30-40 days on the mountain each season. However, I moved to Nashville eight years ago, so I only get out west a couple of weeks a year now. I’ve been researching the Yes Hel Yes, and I was curious if you thought that was a good fit for me and what size you would recommend. I’m also open to any other suggestions you have. Thanks!
Hi Mica
Thanks for your messages.
I think the Hel Yes would be a really good fit for what you’re describing. Size-wise, the 149 would be spot on, IMO, for your specs/experience/how you describe your riding. As an experienced rider, personal preference and what you’re used to come into it as well. But based on those things I’d say 149 for sure.
Hope this helps with your decision
Awesome! That’s the size I was thinking, but I wanted to get a second opinion. Thank you so much!
You’re very welcome Mica. Hope you have a great season and enjoy your new board!
Hi! Great reviews! Interested in your opinion on new gear I’m looking into. I’m 5’2 and 150 lbs and wear 7.5 boots. I’ve been riding for about 15 years. The first several years, I would go 30-40 days each season. However, now I live in Nashville and only make it out west a couple of weeks each year. I would consider myself an intermediate to advanced rider. I enjoy carving groomers, bowls, and trees. I like playing on natural features and only occasionally hit small jumps in the park. I’ve been researching the Yes Hel Yes, but I’m open to any other recommendations you may have. Thank you!
Hi Nate,
great reviews! I have been riding on the Roxy Banana Smoothie from 2014 (size 149). It´s very playful an great when the snow is soft. I have however had quite hard time riding on a harder/icy snow. I also enjoy carving and this board doesn´t feel too stable when I ride on the edges. I am looking for an all mountain, that I can also use in powder. I was checking Jones Dream Catcher, Jones Twin Sister, Capita The Equalizer, Yes Hel, Lib Tech no. 43. I am 173 tall, shoe size 39 and 65 kg. I would be happy for any advice or suggestion. J
Jana
Hi Jana
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think you would feel too limited by Directional Twin – it’s going to give you more versatility than a true twin – in that you can still ride it both ways, but it gives you a bit more in terms of powder. Not as much as a more directional board, but gives a good balance if you didn’t want to go fully directional.
Any of those options would be good for what you’re describing and certainly give you more stability than the Banana Smoothie (which is quite a loose board).
In terms of what’s best in hard/icy conditions, I would say Hel Yes, then Dream Catcher/Twin Sister then Equalizer.
The Dream Catcher is a little more directional than the others. So, if you think you’d prefer more directional – like if you’re really never riding switch or doing 180s, then that might be a good option for you. Otherwise, they would all be a good step up from the Banana Smoothie without being too much of a shock to the system.
The No.43 is a true twin. It would certainly be a good option if you’re looking to stay with a twin, but not as good for powder as the other options, IMO.
Size-wise, I would say something around 150-152, for your specs, what you’re describing and given that you’re quite an experienced rider. You could go a little shorter if you wanted more maneuverability, but otherwise, I think that would be a good range for you.
For the mentioned boards, I would say:
Dream Catcher: 151
Twin Sister: 149 or 152
Equalizer: 150
Hel Yes: 149 or 152
No.43: 149 or 152
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
thank you so much for your advice. I am really leaning towards the Hel Yes. I am planning to try a bit more freeride but unfortunately you never really know how the conditions will be and many times it gets quite icy. I don´t ride switch eventhough I try.
But the board is not too hard in case the terrain gets a bit uneven right?
Also, what binding would you suggest?
Have a great day!
Jana
Hi Jana
I don’t think you’ll find the Hel Yes too hard in uneven terrain.
In terms of bindings I would go for something with 5/10 or 6/10 flex to match the board – something from the following would suit the Hel Yes well:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hi Nate,
very last question: would the Union Juliette bindings also work. They are on a offer with Hel Yes right now but not sure if they would fit.
Thank you
Jana
Hi Jana
I think the Union Juliet would work on the Hel Yes. It’s got a 5/10 flex, so in terms of flex it’s a close enough match. Not quite the same quality as something like the Trilogy and the Trilogy a little more responsive for sure. But for the price, the Juliet is still decent quality. Ideally if you were going Union, I would go Trilogy or Legacy for Hel Yes, but the Juliet would certainly do the job and save a bit of money
Hi Nate,
I am looking for a new board. Since a few years I have been riding on the Roxy Banana Smoothie from 2014 (size 149). The board is very playful in soft snow but I have had difficulties riding on harder/icy snow. I like to carve and ride on edges and I didn’t feel too stable on this board. I am looking for an all mountain board that would not be too stiff (still be nice is softer snow) but will let me carve a bit more and feel stable also on harder snow but also one that I can use in powder. I don’t ride in parks but like to take advantage of the sides of the slope and any bumps I find along. I was looking at Jones Twin sister, Dream catcher, Capita The Equalizer, Hel Yes (Open for other suggestions). I am quite experienced – more than 10 years, 173 tall, shoe size 39. I was wondering if the directional twin is a good choice or if it limits you a bit. The banana smoothie is a true twin.
Thank you
Jana
Hi Nate,
I’m an intermediate to advanced rider. I currently ride a board that my friend made in Tahoe. I went on a backcountry trip to Baldface the past three years and always rented a board. I’m looking for an all mountain board that rides well on powder, groomers back country etc… I ride goofy and like to go fast but also be in control. I’m 5’5” and weigh about 120, foot size 7. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Sarah
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I think the Twin Sister or Hel Yes would be your best bets from this list. They give a good combination of float in powder and stability at speed, which are two things that it sounds like you need most. They’re also not like beasts or anything. Still fairly easy to maneuver at slow speeds, when not really charging.
If powder and speed are your main things and you want to really optimize them and especially if you’re going to be doing a fair few backcountry excursions, then you could also check out:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
Which are more directional and more made for riding freeride. Usually a little stiffer, but not always. If you don’t ride switch or any kind of freestyle, then they’re worth checking out too.
Size-wise, I would say something around 145 would be a good bet for your specs, description of your riding and ability level.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hey there!
I started out riding (and still am) a 155cm “beginners” board (I couldn’t tell you the brand…). Now that I’ve been riding for 5 years, it’s time for an upgrade. I’m 5’7”, at 150lbs and wear a size 10 boot. I gravitate forwards the 155cm to avoid toe and heel drag. Anyway, I ride mostly in NY – meaning little powder and lots of hard surface. I’d like to get into jumping and overall different terrain riding but feel that my board is too inflexible to provide what I need to get into the trees/jumps/etc.
Do you have any suggestions on brand/type? Thanks in advance!
Hi Allison
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, in terms of length, I would say something around 153 would be a good bet, at an advanced level. If you consider yourself more intermediate, then around 150-152. But since you’re used to 155, then probably something around 151-154, depending would be a good bet.
In terms of width, depending on binding angles, I think something around 243mm to 250mm at the waist width as a rough estimate would work. If you ride with angles like +15/-15 you should be able to get away with going narrower than that – down to around 238mm at the waist – and if you ride with a very straight back foot, then more like 245mm to 255mm.
Assuming at least an intermediate level, and taking into account your conditions and how you describe your riding, I would suggest the following (one or more might be more relevant depending on your typical binding angles):
– Yes Hel Yes 152 (242mm waist)
– Jones Twin Sister 152 (245mm waist) – this should be wide enough regardless of binding angles. It’s wider at the inserts vs the waist than the average board
– Rossignol Frenemy 153 (242mm waist)
Since you don’t see much powder, I would also consider the following:
– Salomon Rumblefish 152 (245mm waist)
– GNU Ladies Choice 153.4 (244mm waist)
Hope this helps with your decision
HI Nate,
I am looking at purchasing a new board for the upcoming season in Japan. I did my first season there last year and very keen to go back. However, I am having trouble deciding which board to purchase as well as appropriate length. I am fairly new to the sport [only learning to board last year], however would say I’m beginner/intermediate. I am looking for something that I can use all over the mountain.
I am 165cm, approximately 70-75kg, with a boot size US 9
Cheers,
Grace
Hi Grace
Thanks for your message.
Being at that lower end intermediate/high-end beginner, I would recommend checking out the following:
>>Top 10 Women’s Intermediate Snowboards
Some good all-mountain options include the Infinity and the Rossignol Frenemy (also on this list). And also the Burton Feelgood Flying V (the camber version is on this list but wouldn’t recommend that for your level).
Size-wise, I think something between 148 and 150 would be a good range to look at.
So, the Infinity in the 149 – but my only concern there is if it’s a little narrow for your boots.
The 150 Rossignol Frenemy would be a good size – and I think that would be fine for your boots too.
The Feelgood Flying V 149 would be a good bet – and is also a good width for your boots, IMO.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
I’m so impressed with your knowledge and advice on boards. I’ve been riding for about 8 years now on a Ride board (143). I ride mostly east coast (WV, NC, NH, VT). I usually just ride groomed and stick to the trails (blues to double blacks) and like to cruise. I find myself struggling to keep up speed-wise with my friends, especially if I hit a cat walk. I’m thinking it’s time for a bigger board. I’m 5’6”, 135lbs, shoe size 7.5. I’m planning to ride in Utah and Colorado this winter and hopefully will ride some powder.
Also I bought flows two years ago. I can’t remember the exact model. I ordered the isis but due to the name they sent me the newer ones with a different name. I honestly struggle to get in and out of them from the back latch thing. Any suggestions on bindings as well to go with the hel yes?
I’ve been looking into the Hel yes but have no idea which size to get.
Thank you in advance!
Hi Krista
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, you’re definitely on the right list and on the right track with the Hel Yes, IMO. And going a little longer will certainly help with glide on those cat tracks. For your specs, I would say around 149 would be a good length to go for, assuming an advanced level of riding. If you identify more as intermediate, then you could size down a little from there. So, I think sizing up a little from what you’re currently riding makes sense, even taking cat tracks out of the equation.
So for the Hel Yes, it would be weighing up the 146 and 149.
The other option is the Twin Sister. One of the reasons, I bring this board up specifically is because I’ve found Jones boards typically have the best “glide” on flats – which would certainly also (as well as increasing the length) help you on cat tracks. But both options would def work well for what you’re describing, IMO. Size-wise for the Twin Sister, I would be leaning towards 149, but again either 146 or 149 would be what I would be weighing up for you for that board.
The Hel Yes 146 and the Twin Sister 149 have the same effective edge – so for the Twin Sister you can afford to go a little longer – which is why for the Twin Sister I would be leaning towards the 149.
Whereas I would be leaning 146 for the Hel Yes, for a couple of reasons. Firstly, because it has more effective edge vs overall length than the average board (so it will feel a little longer than the 146 suggests) and secondly, because you’re used to a 143, going up to 146 isn’t as big a leap as going to 149. For the Twin Sister, even though going 149 would be a bigger leap for overall length vs what you have, it will feel a little shorter than a 149.
One advantage of going Hel Yes over the Twin Sister is just that little bit more edge hold in hard/icy conditions and if you’re riding out East a lot you might appreciate that. That said, The Twin Sister is pretty good in that department – just not quite to the same extent as Hel Yes. The 149 Twin Sister would provide just a little better float in powder vs the 146 Hel Yes.
Hope this all makes sense and gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for your advice. I ordered the 149 Hel yes. I think it’s going to be a huge upgrade from my old board and give me more speed to keep up with the guys.
Now, let it snow!
Happy riding!
Thanks again.
You’re very welcome Krista. Yes, bring on the snow! Hope you have a great season with your new board. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you go with it.
Hey Nate!
I would consider myself an intermediate rider (6 based on your ability level scale). I do a lot of riding through different terrain. I mostly enjoy carving through the trees and hitting little jumps but also will occasionally zip down the groomers. I’m from the Canadian Rockies, so powder is hit or miss, but I do enjoy it when it’s around! I am beginning to peak and interest in back country but would likely look into a separate set up for that.
My current set up is a Capita birds of feather 148cm. I am looking for something a bit more responsive and suited to my riding type. I am 5’1 and weight about 60kg. I am currently looking into the YES hel yes 146 or 149, Arbor Swoon rocker 144 or 148 or camber 143 or 147. I am not sure which length or board would be best suited for me. I like the Capita, but i do find I can’t always get the perfect carves in the trees that I desire.
I’m interested to see what you would recommend! And if there’s another board you believe that would be better suited.
Hi Kimberly
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, size-wise, I think you could come down in size from your current Birds of a Feather. I think something 143-145 would be a better range for you to look at. But if you could also let me know your boot size, I could get more accurate with sizing. If you’re riding something that’s a little wide for your boots, then that’s certainly going to affect response and make it require more effort to go from edge to edge. So either finding something narrower or sizing down a little more again (going shorter can make up for loss of maneuverability from riding something too wide) could be necessary, if the board’s we’re looking at are wider than ideal.
For the Hel Yes (which I think would suit what you’re describing), the smallest size is 146, which I think you would be fine on, given that you’re used to 148. I wouldn’t go longer than that though. And again, I think it also depends on boot size.
For the Swoon. It’s a touch call between the rocker and camber options. The rocker will feel quicker edge to edge through the trees and give you more float in powder. But won’t be as good for carving the groomers and will lack a little for stability at speed and for pop. I think from what you’re describing the Rocker is probably your best bet, but it’s a tough call. Size-wise I would probably be looking at 144/143 – but again might depend on boot size. The camber would be aggressive and give you more pop and spring, but would be a good step down in powder.
I think the Twin Sister would work too, and the size most likely the 143 – but the 146 would be a possibility too.
Hope this helps and if you can let me know your boot size, I can confirm my opinion re sizing.
Thanks for all of that information Nate!
My boot size is a women’s 7.5US. Hopefully you can have a better grasp on giving a more firm answer!
Hi Kimberley
Thanks for the extra info. I would say you should be fine on all those options, with your boot size. With the Arbor Swoon perhaps actually being on the getting too narrow side. So, I would say a good bet would be 143 or 146 Twin Sister or 146 Hel Yes.
The debate between 143 and 146 for the Twin Sister is a tough one. The Twin Sister has less effective edge compared to overall length vs the Hel Yes (and vs the Birds of a Feather), which points me towards the 146. But the Twin Sister is a little wider – and it’s the kind of board that’s quite wide at the inserts compared to the waist width (so where your bindings will actually be, it’s wider than it looks), which makes me lean towards the 143. Overall, from what you’re describing, and if you go for a different setup when you start looking at backcountry, then I would just be leaning towards 143.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
I have been snowboarding for a few seasons, and my first board was a 149 salomon surface. I would say I am intermediate now (probably on the lower end) and am looking to get a new board.
I would like to start playing around with tricks but at the same time I also want a certain amount of speed and control while going downhill as I find that my current board doesn’t seem to be very fast and my turns are not very agile. The conditions I snowboard in are quite varied sometimes it’s really icy and sometimes I do get powder. I am 165 cm and 50kg so I was thinking of the 142 or 145 Never Summer proto type two. My footsize is 235cm (US Women 6.5) and my current bindings are Burtons Citizen Re:Flex for women.
Your input would be much appreciated!
Hi Ashley
Thanks for your message.
I agree that sizing down is a good idea for you. IMO 149 is quite a bit too long – and likely one of the major reasons you’re not finding your turns very agile. Given how you’re describing how you want to ride, something around 142 would be a good length for you, IMO. The 142 PT2 would be a good width for your boots too, IMO.
The Proto Type Two, in the 142, would be a great choice for everything you’re describing, with the one down-side being powder. If you’re not in powder that much – or if you find that you’re never really in deep powder – like only ever a couple of inches, then it’ll be fine. But if you get into deeper powder, then you’re probably better off going with something off this list, to get a bit more powder performance. But if you’re not really seeing deep powder, then the PT2 142, or anything from the following, in a similar size, would work well, IMO.
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for your reply Nate! If I was looking at deeper powder, would a 142 Jones dream catcher be too short for me?
Hi Ashley
If you were wanting to use the Dream Catcher as your do-it-all board, and want to also be learning tricks on it, then I think the 142 is a good size – and will still be good in deeper powder than something like the PT2 142 – just because it’s designed to be better in powder. Length and width are factors for float for sure – but there are other things too – and the Dream Catcher is quite good in powder for those other factors regardless of size. So I think the 142 would be a good option for that board for a bit of everything.
But If you’re looking at it as a second board and want to maximize powder, stability at speed, then the 145 – or even the 148, if part of a quiver, would be a better option.
Hey Nate,
I’m an intermediate boarder from the northeast coast (riding mostly in NY/PA/Vermont) and have been riding an old used board for the past 4 seasons. I’ve been in desperate need for an update and after some research decided to go for the Arbor swoon rocker 148cm (it was also on an awesome promo). I loved the look and reviews of the board but after reading some of your comments here, I am wondering if I should have went for the chamber rather then the rocker. I’m mostly riding on groomed trails but am hoping to expand into the woods and looking to get on more powdery trails. That being said, as I advance, I’ve been wanting to go faster, but I’m definitely not the person to be gunning it straight down the mountain. Do you think the swoon will limit my speed and will be less stable for carving than the chamber? I’m not much of a park-goer, just some baby jumps here and there.
Any insight would be amazing! I’m also 125lb and 5’4. I chose the 148cm based off some reviews and size charts I read. I’m also looking for new bindings for this board, something simple and on the less expensive size.
Kim
Hi Kimberly
Thanks for your message.
You would certainly get a bit more in terms of speed and carving out of the camber version and a bit more pop. But riding the Coda Rocker (men’s equivalent of the Swoon), the rocker version is better for carving than what I would usually expect from an all rocker board, and in terms of speed. But not to the level of the Camber version. But you do get an easier ride and something better in powder – and in uneven terrain, IMO. A little more effortless changing edges (which is of course nice to have in the woods). If you were really bombing and riding quite aggressively and getting into deeper carves, then I might say camber, rather than rocker. But I think you’ll be fine with the rocker, from what you’re describing and get just a bit more versatility out of it.
Size-wise, I would have recommended the 144, taking everything into account. But the 148 isn’t way off – and it will give more in terms of float in powder and stability at speed. Just not as nimble, not as good in the woods and not as good for more freestyle stuff. So 148 isn’t super long for you, IMO, but ideally I would have gone 144 for you.
In terms of bindings, it’s a good idea to get something with the right flex to match your board, ability level and your riding style. So, something with around a 5/10 or 6/10 flex would work well for you, IMO. A lot of cheaper bindings tend to be softer flexing, so just so you don’t go out and just buy the cheapest, as you want something suitable too. But there are also some well priced bindings in that flex range too. I would say a good balance of price and quality and being suitable for your needs, the following would be great choices.
-Union Trilogy
-Burton Scribe
-Salomon Mirage
And if you can find something past season, then that should save you a good bit too. If you want to go for something even less in terms of cost, then the Union Juliet is worth checking out – still reasonably quality and a good flex match, but a little less in terms of price.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate, this was really helpful! I had trouble finding a 144 board, but there are still 140’s available, is this too small? If I can still find 144 boards, I’d rather swap then spend the money for a board that’s not exactly what I need.
If I ended up switching to a chamber, would 147 still be too large? It’s been tricky finding the smaller sizes for last years boards. Ug!
Also thanks again!!!
Hi Kimberly
Yeah 140 too probably too small for you, IMO, unfortunately. And 147 in the camber version probably not going to feel any shorter than the 148 Rocker version. Even though it has a little less length and a little less in terms of effective edge – being camber it’s likely to feel a little longer, length for length, vs the rocker version. I know it can be frustrating when you can’t find the right size! But I would either stick with what you have or hold out for a 144, if you can find it. I wouldn’t go down to 140 – and I would only change to the Camber 147, if you think you prefer the sound of the camber model – but not because of the size.
Hope this helps
Hello,
I am thinking to buy the Arbor Swoon for my wife.
She is an advanced rider, who likes snowboarding smooth in resort and powder.
She is approximatly 55 kg and 163 cm.
I am hesitating between the rocker version and the camber version.
Can you help me ?
Thank you !
Timothée
Hi Timothée
Thanks for your message.
I can see your hesitation. I think, being an advanced rider, that your wife would appreciate the camber in the Swoon Camber on groomed runs – to give that extra bit for speed, carving and spring out of turns (and pop if she likes jumps/ollies etc). But on the other hand if she also likes to ride powder the Swoon Rocker is the better bet for that.
Some more that might help:
Riding the Coda Rocker (men’s equivalent of swoon rocker): I found that it carved better than I was expecting, and was better at speed than I was expecting given the rocker profile. Still certainly not the same carver, or bomber that the camber version is – but not as loose and washy as I was expecting either. Not as poppy as the camber version either but still some pop there. You can check out more on what I thought of the Coda Rocker at the link below:
>>Arbor Coda Rocker Review
All except for in powder, I would say Coda Camber is her best option, but the biggest downside is that it won’t be as good in powder. Will be more effort trying to keep that nose afloat.
Size-wise, I would say probably 144 for the Swoon Rocker and 143 for the Swoon Camber for her specs, but she could potentially get on the 148 Swoon Rocker or 147 Swoon Camber if she prefers something bigger (and depending on what she’s used to riding too). Going a little bigger is better for float in powder & stability at speed – but won’t be as nimble at slower speeds, not as good for trees, and not as good for freestyle stuff.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hy Nate, thank you i finally bought the camber version in 147 size.
In a perfect world, i would have bought the two versions 🙂 …
Even if she likes a lot riding in powder, such days with this snow are not so frequent. We ride more often in groomed snow… That’s why i have followed your advice.
I hope she will still enjoy the powder with this version. Not as good than with the rocker certainly, but …!
Also, for information, i have completed the pack with the Union trilogy bindings, green color.
Thanks
Timotyée
Hi Timothée
Thanks for the update. I think she’ll still enjoy the powder on it – it’s powder after all! And overall it’s probably the better choice, if she doesn’t get in powder that often. Trilogy a good match binding-wise, IMO.
Hello there Nate!
I currently am ~120lbs, 5’5″, with a size 8.5 USA women’s boot. I have Burton Lexa bindings and ride mostly in the PNW (OR/WA) area. I do a lot of full days and full season riding. I currently have a 2018 Capita Birds of a Feather 148cm board for all mountain playing around and I would really like a board that performs better on groomed steeps, trees, and off-piste. Mostly, in trees. More aggressive than my Capita Board, but still a little playful. I am thinking Jones Twin or Flagship, NS Aura, or Yes Hel Yes. Maybe 150cm? Any thoughts?
I meant a common between groomed runs and steep. For clarification, I love my Capita board for laid back and playful riding.
Hi Maegan
Thanks for your message.
Firstly, size-wise, I would usually say around 145cm for you, but since you’re used to a 148, you could go a little longer. Going longer helps with powder – and stability at speed for bombing groomers, and stability on steeps but for trees, going shorter helps with maneuverability. So given that you’re looking for something mostly for trees, I wouldn’t go any longer than what you’re already riding personally – and for the likes of powder and steeps, going with a more directional ride like the boards you’ve mentioned, is going to help anyway, without going longer.
Of the boards you’ve mentioned, the Flagship and Aura are the most freeride oriented and the most different to your current board (and more aggressive than the Hel YES and Twin Sister), but the Hel Yes and Twin Sister are quite different too. Size-wise for each, I would be thinking:
Jones Flagship 148
Never Summer Aura 146
YES Hel YES 146
Jones Twin Sister 149
The Aura and Hel Yes have longer effective edge per overall length than the Jones options, which is why I would go a little shorter on those options. With your specs, you could definitely ride the 144 Flagship and 146 Twin Sister – and usually those are the sizes that I would actually recommend if you weren’t already used to the 148 Birds of a Feather.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for writing such a thorough review! I’m a petite woman, 5 feet, 100 lbs, size 6.5 boot. I’ve been riding on a Sims Odyssey 120 boys board, with women’s flow bindings for the last 5 years. I started out on a 138cm board but couldn’t link my turns, so I swapped to the 120. I consider myself an intermediate rider; I can comfortably carve on any blue, and I can do most blacks but have to do more turns. I’ve outgrown my board, and actually have a 2 in crack on the back tail so I’m looking into a new board.
I’m afraid of transitioning back to a 135-140 after being on a 120 for so long. But it’s been difficult to find quality boards in the 130 range. Do you have suggestions on sizing or maybe some recommendations for youth boards?
Thanks so much!
I forgot to add that I generally ride the groomed trails. Occasionally venture into the park for small jumps, and sometimes have powder. It’s mostly groomed trails though
Hi Jenn
Thanks for your message.
Length-wise, I would say that something around 138cm, for an all-mountain board, if you were at an advanced level. Certainly as a beginner though, I would have recommended something more like 133-135 for your specs. And even now, given that you are used to a 120 – and at an intermediate level, I would say 138 is a bit too long. Usually I would say something 135, 136 for your specs/level. However, since you’re used to a 120 – and I’m guessing you got on well with it, since you rode it for 5 years? Then something a little shorter might suit you better – it seems you prefer shorter.
Unfortunately women’s boards only really go down to 136 – and only some models go down to that size. I think you would handle a 136 a lot better than when you first got on a 138, for sure, given that you’ve advanced since then. Also, I’m not sure what 138 you were on, but it’s also possible that it was too wide for your boots. Off hand the best women’s for you, IMO, size-wise, would be the GNU Gloss 136 (226mm waist width). It would be a good length and width for you. It’s what I would call an all-mountain-freestyle board, but I think that would suit your style relatively well. If you were happy to go up to a 136, with a nice narrow width, then I think that would be a good option – good for intermediate level too, IMO.
But if you wanted to go shorter you’d have to look into kids boards. It’s not an area that I have a lot of knowledge in, but if you’re looking for something all-mountain, then something like the following could work:
– Jones Discovery 132
– Jones Prodigy 130
– K2 Kandi 129 or 134
Most kids boards are centered true twins, with the above being a little more directional.
Either way, I think sizing up from what you have now is a good call. It’s just whether you want to go as much as 16cm longer, with something like a 136. Or go for a kids board that’s a little shorter.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks so much for your reply and your suggestions! I’ll definitely look into those boards you suggested 🙂
You’re very welcome Jenn. Happy riding!
Hi Nate,
I’m so happy I followed your advice and bought a shorter board last year! I don’t know if you remember, I’m the not-so-young Italian woman (now 62) who had a 149 Feelgood, wanted to buy a Salomon Wonder but couldn’t decide between the 139 and the 143. You told me that the 139 was the proper size for me, but it would take some getting used to.
Actually, at first I felt like I was riding a soap bar, but after ten minutes things started to improve, and at the end of the first day I felt stable and balanced again. From then on, things have gone better and better, I have found it easier to go switch, to perform some easy tricks, but the big difference I have noticed is in crud and slushy snow. I used to tire myself to death with the old board, now I seem to dance on snow in comparison, and I go faster than many skiers in bad snow conditions.
Unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to try out the new board in powder snow, because this season has been very dry in Northern Italy and France, where I usually go riding. Let’s hope it will snow more next season!
Thanks again!
Elena
Hi Elena
Thanks for the update. Awesome that you’re getting on so well with your new board. Always love to hear it! Hoping for more snow for you next season for sure!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for a great review site and your replies to people’s questions are very helpful. I currently ride a Rossi Frenemy 147 which has been a fantastic board for my progression and the icy east coast conditions. I am keeping it for the icy days and my very infrequent park visits, but looking for a new board that works well in powder without being a specific powder board. I am a strong intermediate, moving towards advanced and starting getting into a bit more side-country, don’t ride switch. I am considering the Jones Dream Catcher (151 or 149?) and possibly GNU Klassy. What would you recommend as the better complement to my Frenemy? I’m open to other suggestions, not looking for a super aggressive board. I’m 5’4″, around 135lb with a US 7.5 boot
Hi Jeanette
Thanks for your message.
I think you’re on the right track with the 2 boards you’ve listed. Both good for powder but certainly not powder specialist. And neither overly aggressive.
Both would be a good compliment to the Frenemy, IMO. But I know that doesn’t help!
The Klassy is probably slightly more different to the Frenemy vs the Dream Catcher – just because it has a hybrid rocker profile (rocker between the feet, then camber towards tip and tail), and because it’s a tapered directional shape. The Dream Catcher is also a little more directional than the Frenemy, but not tapered (has the same width nose and tail vs the Klassy which has a narrower tail vs nose – though it’s quite a subtle taper). And finally because it has a much bigger setback (1.5″ vs the 0.4″ on the Frenemy and similar on the Dream Catcher).
For the Klassy I would say go 148.
For the Dream Catcher, it’s something you can ride a little longer, so the 151 comes into play. The effective edge on the 151 Dream Catcher is 112.5cm which is pretty close to the 148 Klassy (113cm) and a bit up from the 147 Frenemy (111cm). The 148 Dream Catcher (109.9cm) would be dropping effective edge vs the 147 Frenemy. That’s not to say that it’s off the table, but I think you could ride the 151, because of that.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the information. I went with the Dream Catcher, picked one up in end of season sale so will have to admire it for some months before I get a chance to try it out!
cheers,
Jeanette
Hi Jeanette
You’re very welcome – and awesome that you have a new board! If you happen to think of it at the time let me know how you get on the Dream Catcher once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hi Nate! I am an intermediate rider. I mostly ride groomers, icy conditions. I am 5’1 and 118 lbs. My boot size is 6.5 (US). I am torn between Jones Dream Catcher and Jones Twin Sisters. Help!
Hi Dorothy
Thanks for your message.
Both would certainly work for what you’re describing. For your specs, I would be looking at 140 for the Twin Sister and 142 for the Dream Catcher. In those sizes, I think you can’t go wrong with either. But here are some things that might help you decide:
The Dream Catcher is a little better riding fast. Also a little better in powder, but if you’re not really going off groomer, then that’s not going to be a big factor. But if you do see yourself going off-groomer and into powder in the future, that’s something to think about.
The Twin Sister better for jumps, ollies, spins etc and better for riding switch.
Both on par for the likes of uneven terrain and carving/turning.
Hope this helps
Hi Ed,
First off, I’m a skier so my board knowledge is just about zero. I’m here for my wife. She currently rides an Arbor 154 Stance limted edition with the sinister looking little elves holding poppy plants. She grew up in Tahoe racing (on this board) and spending summers training at Hood. She is not a park rider at all. We used to live in Alta and she rode snowbird all the time. That was 10 years ago and three kids later she’s wondering what she should be looking at. Currently we’re riding Big Bear and Mammoth, but moving back to SLC sometime in the near future. (Sorry for the history lesson)
The last few people we’ve talked with pretty much talked us out of buying something new. They love the old construction as said if she’s able to rip around on that board she could buy almost anything and be happy.
She wants something that will have some float and be able to rip a gs turn (she despises sliding around). What’s new these days that might fit that bill? Thanks!
Jeff
Hi Jeff
Thanks for your message.
Snowboard tech has come a long way in the last few years, so I’m not sure why anyone would like the old construction, but each to their own.
Since the board is that old, it’s likely all camber (as most boards were back then) – so I think going with something predominantly camber is a good idea for a couple of reasons. Firstly, because she’s used to that feel and secondly because a good amount of camber helps to carve and be more aggressive, gives good spring out of a turn etc. Which it sounds like she’ll definitely appreciate. But all camber boards don’t typically float that well, so some rocker in there for better powder float is a good idea.
Since she doesn’t do any park – and I’m guessing not riding a lot of switch? Then a directional shape would be a good way to go – and probably directional camber too – this would give her a mostly camber feel (camber back to the tail) but with a little bit of rocker in the nose to help with float.
So, I would be looking at a freeride board. The following has some good options:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
But specifically, for directional camber, the:
– Burton Family Tree Story Board
– Jones Women’s Flagship (there’s a little rocker in the tail, but not as much as in the nose – it’s pretty subtle in the tail)
Also not on that list:
– Ride Hellcat
– Capita Jess Kimura Pro (a little softer flexing than the Story Board and Flagship, but still that directional camber – and still a medium flex – but probably the most “easy going” vs the other 3 above)
Size-wise, if she’s happy with what she’s on, then she could look to go for a similar size. Typically boards are ridden a little shorter these days, but not necessarily. Happy to give a sizing opinion, would just need her height, weight and boot size. But if she’s confident with her own size choice, all good.
Hope this helps and gives you some options
Hi Nate,
Looking for a new board for the missus and wondering what you’d recommend. She’s 5’7, 140-145lbs abs size 8 or 8.5 boot (US size). She’s a pretty advanced, agressive rider often clocking up speeds over 90km/hr. These days usually only a week or 2 a year around kids holidays (Easter and/or New Year) so something that handles slush and ice well. Mainly piste riding unless lucky with the snow and then some powder. Used to spend a lot of time in the park but only the odd run through these days and she only really does straight jumps (fairly big) or small 180s and the odd boxes and rails. She currently has a 152 feelgood (circa 2004 – the limited edition ostrich skin one) so could do with an upgrade. The Hel Yes seems to fit the bill in terms or riding style and give her extra hold on ice (she was losing an edge a few times in very icy conditions this new year). Would you recommend this and if so what size? Any others I should consider?
Thanks
Ed
Forgot to add, also needs to be able to go slow when messing around with the kids after ski school, so slower posted and kids park stuff.
Thanks!
Hi Ed
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think the Hel Yes would be a great option and fit everything you’ve described well. Aggressive enough, but something you can slow down and play around on sometimes and good edge hold for hard/icy conditions.
Size-wise, I think the 152 would be the best bet for her style, ability and for this board. And it’s what she’s used to, so that’s another plus too.
Hope this helps with your decision
Reposting because I think I accidentally replied to someone else’s post
Hi Nate, I am 5’8” and 140lbs and I have been riding for about 18 years. I mainly ride in Lake Tahoe about 10-15 times per season. I no longer use the park. I am very comfortable snowboarding and like to ride black diamonds and powder, but I have definitely gotten more cautious over the years. My current board I just realized is very old, 2008-2009 forum spinster I believe size 150. I need to get a new board but I do not know where to start. I think I am looking for an all mountain board, but I am open to suggestions.
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing either an all-mountain or freeride board would be a good bet. Since you’re more cautious now and I’m guessing ride less aggressively than you did, then I would be leaning towards either all-mountain or a slightly softer flexing freeride board (a lot of them are quite stiff but not all). If you want to check out some freeride options, check out:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
For more mid-flexing freeride options also add to that the:
– GNU Klassy
– GNU Hyper Kyarve
– Capita Jess Kimura Pro
Size-wise, I would say something 150-152 would be a good range to look at.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the great articles and responses to comments. Really helpful!
I’m hoping to get your advice on my next board. I started learning snowboarding 5 years ago in Tahoe/California. Since I wasn’t sure if snowboard would be my thing especially when I was already in my 30’s, I decided to make do with the cheapest I could get at the time. I am 5’6, 115lb and boot size 8-8.5, and have been riding on a Burton Genie 140.
Fast forward 5 years, I mostly ride on blue to single black groomed tracks. While I can smoothly do my turns and really enjoy the rides, I am still working on my speed (and fear of speed) as I often feel unstable on the board. I am at the stage of considering my next board and willing to invest in a good one that will stay with my progression.
Would you recommend a few options? Really appreciate your advice.
Thanks a lot!
Emmie
Hi Emmie
Thanks for your message.
Burton Genie a great board to start out on, and I think the 140 was a good size to start out on too. So, a good choice there, IMO, regardless of the price. But certainly not surprised you don’t find it stable at speed!
Now that you’re more advanced, getting something with more performance, and sizing up a little is a good idea. Assuming you would class yourself roughly as an intermediate rider (but correct me if that’s off the mark), then I think something from this list, in something around a 143, give or take, would be a good bet. If you don’t tend to leave the groomers/don’t find yourself in deep powder very often, then the following is also worth looking at:
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
I would probably stay away from anything that’s full camber – probably going to feel too aggressive/catchy for intermediate level and being used to something like the Genie. But some camber in there is great for stability at speed and to get a bit more spring out of your turns (and pop if you’re doing any jumps or ollies or anything like that).
Width-wise, assuming 8.5s, try to go at least 235mm at the waist (a little narrower if you ride with angles like +15-15) and no more than 245mm at the waist.
Taking all that into account, the boards (with what I would consider appropriate sizes for you would be):
– Jones Twin Sister: 143 (240mm waist width)
– Rossignol Frenemy: 144 (239mm WW)
– Salomon Rumble Fish: 144 (239mm WW)
– Roxy Torah Bright: 143 (237mm WW)
Those aren’t the only options, but I think the best options, if you can find them in those sizes.
Hope this helps with your decision
Super helpful! Thanks for your advice and speedy reply. I am going to look these up and hopefully one of them will be available 🙂
Thanks again,
Emmie
You’re very welcome Emmie. Happy riding! (and shopping)
Hi Nate,
Thank you for the starting point with your reviews! I’m hoping for a little more specified advice. I am just getting back into snowboarding (last season) after taking a several years off having babies and what not. I am a strong intermediate boarder, mostly in southern California, and (when not having a season like the current one) usually icy, man made conditions. My current board is probably close to 20 years old (Apex Limited, ever even heard of it?). I am more than ready to get new board and bindings. I am 5’7″, 160ish lbs., 8.5 boot. Mostly groomed runs. Looking for something that wont catch edges like my current board. I’ve always loved the look of the Arbor boards but I’m not sure if it is the right one for me.
Thanks!
Hi Emily
Thanks for your message.
I think you’ve earned a new board after 20 years!
I think the Arbor Swoon Rocker could work for you, if you’re liking the look of that. Certainly not catchy at all, and certainly not as catchy as a 20 year old board. Everything back then was full camber. So anything not full camber is going to work for you, IMO. Given what you’re describing, I think something around a medium flex would work well too. So, most of this list would be an option given those things and for a solid intermediate rider.
If you don’t see yourself going off-groomer into any kind of deeper powder, then you could also look at the following:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
In terms of boards good for hard/icy conditions, I would say the following, rated out of 5, for what I would consider the best options, from these 2 lists:
– Arbor Swoon Rocker (4/5)
– Rossignol Frenemy (5/5)
– Jones Twin Sister (4/5)
– YES Hel Yes (5/5)
– Salomon Rumble Fish (4/5)
– Roxy Torah Bright (5/5)
– Never Summer Proto Type 2 (4/5)
I’ve only mentioned the ones I consider 4/5 or up for icy conditions, as anything 4/5 and up should be fine, IMO.
Size-wise, something between 151 and 154 would be a good length range to look at. But if you can also let me know the size of your Apex Limited, as I also like to take into account what you’re used to for sizing.
Width-wise, with 8.5s, anything in that length range should be wide enough. Probably go no wider than around 247mm (waist width).
If you narrow it down to a couple of boards, I would be happy to give a specific sizing opinion for those boards.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you! My current board is 154. This really helps narrow down my research. Hopefully, I will get a chance to demo some of these before the end of the season.
You’re very welcome Emily.
Yeah something around 152 to 155, then I think would be a good range for you to look at.
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the great reviews!
I wanted to get your thoughts on picking a board to progress from a high intermediate skill level. I currently ride a 145cm NS infinity (2011 if that makes a difference) which I really enjoy but I’m finding it a bit too soft when I try to carve on steeps, I’m looking for a board that would help me get more comfortable there. Otherwise, I like spending some time in the park and playing with small features on the side of trails as well as trees. I’m also on the east coast so a lot of hard pack and ice.
From your reviews I’m looking at the GNU B pro, NS proto two, Jones twin sister and yes hel yes. I’m 5’2″, 120lbs US size7 boots, so I was originally planning to size down slightly for my next snowboard. Would you recommend getting a board to replace my old infinity or complement it? Also, which bindings would pair well with these?
Thanks!
Hi Annie
Thanks for your message.
The boards you mention are all good options, IMO and should be a good stepup from the Infinity in terms of carving and speed.
If you don’t really ride much powder or you’re willing to work a little harder in powder, then the B Pro and PT2 would both be really good options, IMO. But if you do see a little bit of powder, and want to be able to enjoy without having to put in too much effort, then the Mountain Twin and Hel Yes are the better options, IMO. Also being a little more directional and a little setback is something that some people prefer when carving on steeps. The first two slightly better when it comes to freestyle stuff.
The other option, if you were wanting to compliment the Infinity and potentially use the Infinity for your more playful, playing around board, then you could look at a more freeride oriented board like one of the following:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
Not typically as good for slowing down and playing around on but more specialized towards carving, speed and powder.
The other thing, is that if you were to go with something like the PT2 or B Pro, that you could use the Infinity for powder days, if you’re looking for a more surfy ride in powder. The Infinity isn’t a powder specialist by any means but a little better than the likes of the PT2 and B Pro.
I think something around 143 would be a good size, give or take depending on the board. If you narrow it down to the board you want or if you’re between a couple, I would be happy to give a board specific size recommendation. It would also depend on if you were planning on complimenting or replacing the Infinity.
For bindings, for something like the B Pro, PT2, Twin Sister and Hel Yes, the following would be the best to look at, IMO:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps with your decision
Excellent, thanks Nate – super helpful!
IYO, am I overlooking any other board options that I didn’t mention above that might be better suited to my size/style?
(I just did a search and my Burton Air is from 2007 – yikes. I’ve been suffering for far too long!)
Looking forward to shopping at our local board shop! Hoping to keep using my bindings (Burtons, but not sure if they will be compatible – they are still in good shape and are a fairly recent purchase), and still love my boots (Solomon Ivy circa 2011 – I get some excess heel lift after the laces loosen, but now I know how to secure them better with the hockey lacing – thanks for that!) – so maybe all I need to get is a new board…
Hi Rhonda
I think those 3 would be really good options for you. You could also check out something like the GNU Klassy (145), but you can’t go wrong with those 3, IMO. Between them, the Aura is the stiffest flexing (7/10) with the Hel Yes, Dream Catcher and Klassy all 6/10. So it depends if you want something a little stiffer, or more medium flex.
If your bindings are recent Burton bindings, and they are “Re:Flex” models, then they should be compatible with these boards. If you have “EST” models, then they will only work on Burton boards, unfortunately.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate!
Have my eyes on the Dream Catcher 145 ; alas, difficult to find the right size this time of year. Our local board shop is unable to get it from Jones – sold out. I think the Aura is stiffer than I want – still trying to decide about that; but if I can’t get the DC, next on the list are the YHY and the GNU Klassy…which seem to be more readily available in the right size.
Not sure I understand the difference the rocker types: Klassy = camber rocker camber; DC and YHY = rocker camber rocker…should I care about this???
Hi Rhonda
Thanks for your message.
I would say the main difference in terms of feel between camber-rocker-camber (hybrid rocker) and rocker-camber-rocker (hybrid camber) is that hybrid rocker tends to be a little looser feeling, having that rocker between the feet. How much looser feeling depends on how much rocker and camber there is. There are some hybrid rockers that are really camber dominant and just have really subtle rocker sections, which actually feel closer to full-camber boards, and others that have a lot of rocker and just subtle camber sections, which feel quite loose and more like full-rocker boards. On the other side there are hybrid cambers that can have predominantly camber, and just subtle rocker towards tip and tail and others that just have a very small amount of camber between the feet and lots of rocker. Typically hybrid cambers, even when there’s not that much camber, don’t feel as loose.
The Klassy has was GNU call a C2X, which is more camber than rocker. It’s one of their more camber dominant profile, but certainly the rocker is still noticeable. Their C3 profile is predominantly camber, with just subtle rocker. So, the Klassy is hybird rocker, but it’s the most stable feeling hybrid rocker (besides the C3, which feels more like camber than hybrid rocker). I would say it’s still just a touch looser feeling than the Hel Yes and Dream Catcher, but not as much as most other hybrid rocker profiles.
Hope this makes sense
Thanks again, Nate!
Found, purchased and just today I had my first day on a Jones Dream Catcher 145.
OMG OMG – so much freaking fun!!! Hooray – I can snowboard again! We just got 6″ of fresh, light powder and that Jones is a dream to ride. It turns on a dime in off piste powder, icy patches as well as groomers. So responsive and floats well in the amount of powder we have. I was a bit apprehensive about making the switch from a 153 to a 145 thinking I’d need time to adjust, but I had zero problems right out of the gate. So happy.
Thanks for this site, your reviews and your helpful feedback! I”ll be back next year when I search for boots and bindings!
Happy Winter 🙂
Hi Rhonda
Thanks for the update. Awesome to hear you had a great time on your new Dream Catcher – and awesome that you were able to gel with it from day 1! Happy Riding!
Hi Nate – Oh my gosh, you are such a gem. Your reviews and IMOs are so helpful. Really, this is the best review site I have come across for women’s snowboards. I just love your Snowboarding Profiles website. Definitely my go-to for all things snowboard.
And now I’m seeking your advice…from what I can tell, it sounds like the board that I have been riding for the past few years (BurtonAir 153) is much too long for me. Maybe that’s why I hate it? I have never felt entirely stable on it, regardless if I’m riding icy groomers, or semi-deep powder. I always feel like it is going to wash out on me. Definitely a confidence crasher. I’ve been riding for ~25 years and would self-classify as an intermediate to advanced rider. I do not do any tricks, unless I inadvertanly jump over a rock and manage to stick the landing. I love powder (when I can get it), big carves, off-piste, trees, and fresh powder over groomers. I can do steeps (sometimes) if there is lots of powder. While I love to ride in these conditions, we don’t often get them here in Southeast Alaska. My typical ride is ski-cut powder, and hard pack groomers, usually icy. I”m 5’2″, 120 lbs. I’ve simply got to ditch that Burton Air – it’s a menace and it keeps me from riding well – in fact, I’ve gotten worse since I’ve had it – I know it.
So – thinking about my replacement. After reading your reviews, I’m considering the Never Summer Infinity, Aura, Jones Dram Catcher and the Yes Hel Yes. And it sounds like the size of board that would best suit my stature would be ~142-146, depending on the board.
Would love to know what you think about why the Burton Air sucks for me and your recommended replacement.
Thanks for all you do!
Rhonda
Hi Rhonda
Thanks for your message.
I couldn’t find much information on the Burton Air, but from what I can tell it is likely that it was all camber, given that the last ones made were 2008. A traditional camber profile like this can feel catchy. Also traditional camber isn’t typically very good at floating in powder. But the main thing, I would say is size. IMO 153 is significantly too long for you. I would say more like 142,143 for your specs/ability/style of riding. Now, since you now have experience on a 153, you could go a little longer than 143, but I certainly wouldn’t go as long as 153 again.
From what you’re describing, I would say the Aura, Dream Catcher and Hel Yes would all be good options. The only reason I wouldn’t say Infinity is that it’s a little softer flexing and has more rocker than camber in the profile. I think coming from an all-camber board (even if you didn’t necessarily like it) and going to that profile would be a big adjustment. Also, since you describe that you like to do big carves, I think it’s probably a bit too casual of a board in terms of flex and camber profile. But the other 3 that you mentioned would all suit your style well, IMO, and all have pretty good edge-hold in hard/icy conditions – the Hel Yes being the best of the 3 in that sense, I would say.
Size-wise, I would go with the following for those boards:
~ Hel Yes: 146 (it’s the shortest this board goes and usually with your specs I would say go a little shorter but you will be dropping a lot of length compared to your current board, so I think this would work)
~ Aura: 146 (same as above for Hel Yes)
~ Dream Catcher: 145 (even though there is a 142 for this one, I would go 145. It’s the kind of board that can be ridden a little longer as there is less effective edge vs overall length. Effective edge on each of these boards are Hel Yes 146 (111cm), Aura 146 (112cm), Dream Catcher 145 (107cm). The Air, for reference is 118cm effective edge.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the helpful reviews!
I’ve decided to get a Gnu Ladies Choice but am not sure about the size.
I’m 1.68m and 56kg (I think about 5’6” and 123lb).
Shoes are 41 (US w10). I used to ride a Gnu B-Pro 149 (2011), waist width 24.2. The LC 145.5 has a waist width of 24, which should still be fine regarding the size of my feet.
I’m mostly riding slopes and backcountry/powder, small jumps and sometimes switch.
What’s your opinion? Thanks for your help,
Neda
Hi Neda
Thanks for your message.
I would be weighing up between the 145.5 and 148.5, but leaning towards 148.5.
Usually I would say for width that if you ride with binding angles like +15/-15, or similar, then 240mm waist would be fine for women’s 10s. But with a straighter back foot, it could be more problematic. But since you haven’t had any issues on the B Pro 149, then you would probably be OK on the width of the 145.5 Ladies Choice. Also, because the Ladies Choice is an asym board, it’s recommended to ride with a duck stance like +15/-15 anyway.
I would actually usually be leaning towards 145.5 for your specs for this board, but since you’re used to a 149 B Pro, I think going 148.5 makes more sense. Even the 148.5 is dropping effective edge compared to the 149 B Pro, so dropping to the 145.5 might feel like you’re loosing too much effective edge, compared to what you’re used to. Also, since you have backcountry/powder as one of the main things you do, the 148.5 is going to be better for that, IMO.
If you really want to size down to 145.5 though, it’s definitely a doable size for your specs. But weighing up all the factors, I would be leaning towards 148.5.
Hope this helps with your decision
This is a great site. Would very much appreciate your opinion of the Rossignol Justice for a young — but pretty aggressive — teen girl transitioning out of a junior board. Local mountain is often icy. Her parents are dorky skiers and don’t know anything about snowboards 🙂
Hi Snow Mom
Thanks for your message.
As an aggressive rider the Justice might be OK for your daughter but it is a pretty stiff board, so would be a big adjustment coming from a junior board. The camber profile isn’t hugely aggressive though, so that tones it down a little bit.
Great for Icy conditions.
Assuming she is a relatively advanced and aggressive rider, it’s a board that could definitely be an option, if there is an appropriate size for her. I would be happy to give you my opinion on sizing, I would just need her height, weight and boot size.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Please help! I bought a Burton Feelgood 156 (2007) whilst living in BC, Canada and had a fabulous season with it in the powder, through chutes, bowls and tree runs, and have used it in various resorts since. Move 10 years on and I am now living in Morzine, France and feel rusty getting back on the board….Im struggling to be honest and I can’t figure out why.
Here are my specs: Im 5”9 (and half) , fluctuate between 66-69kg female.
Im not sure if its my bindings set up as can’t remember what I used to ride or whether the board is too stiff for me and my deteriorated ability/different snow to Canada.
My bindings are set up slightly wider than shoulder width apart, mirrored duck in +15/-15 and I have played with a couple of degrees either side of this. Is it possible that I have lost my ability to be aggressive enough for this board?
Would you recommend another board, maybe smaller? More flex?
My goal is to get back to all mountain and ‘play’ with learning to ride switch/small tricks etc this year. Your advice would be very gratefully received!
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Laura
Thanks for your message.
I imagine it could be a number of things (and mostly likely a combination of things).
Size-wise, I would put you more on a 152, 153, and I think 156 is a bit long. That said, you got on with it in the past, but it might be that it’s too long for you now. Back around 2007, it’s likely that you were advised to just pick a size between your nose and chin, but these days it’s more about weight – and really it’s a combination of weight, height, ability and your style of riding. For you, I’d say no longer than 153, but no shorter than 150.
Assuming you’re still at an intermediate level, or going to be there soon, then something that’s around that 5/10 or 6/10 flex range is a good idea, IMO, so the current Feelgood would be fine in terms of flex, but the 2007 Feelgood might have been stiffer (though in saying that, it would have softened up a little over time as well).
But based on everything, I would also recommend a hybrid profile (the Feelgood is all camber), which would helps to make a board more forgiving, better in powder to name a couple, compared to an all camber board.
In terms of stance width and binding angles, I would test against extremes and then work your way inwards. For example with binding angles, you’ve tried +15/-15. I would next try something completely different – like +18/+3 or something like that, then decide which you liked better. If you prefered the +18/+3, then you could try something like +18/-9, and then compare those 2. If you preferred the +15/-15, then you could try +18/-9 as well and compare. If that makes sense. It’s harder to tell the difference between subtle changes, so going more extreme and working your way in works better, IMO. Same with stance widths.
Assuming you still want to ride powder, then I think an all-mountain board is the way to go, so you’re in the right place.
If you experience some hard/icy conditions where you ride, then I would suggest:
~ Yes Hel Yes
~ Rossignol Frenemy
~ Jones Twin Sister
If you don’t really, then those 3 would still be good options but also add the Burton Feelgood Flying V to the mix. The Infinity is also an option if you want something softer and more playful.
Since you’re used to all camber, I wouldn’t go Swoon Rocker as it might feel strange, being all rocker. The Swoon Camber, maybe. It’s all camber, but it’s a more subtle camber than the Feelgood, though I think a hybrid profile would work best for you.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for this report and your great response & feedback to comments!
I figured I’d reach out too as I’m in the market for a new board. I’m 5’7, 134 lbs. I currently ride my first & only board, a 2007 Forum Aura 149. I love it, but it’s time to move on.. I ride all mountain, but mostly ride blues & single blacks. I sometimes like to hit park for simple stuff- smaller jumps and boxes, but most of my time is on trails. I live in the dc area & mostly ride this area/ East Coast conditions. I’m looking to replace my Aura With something good for my styke riding. What do you recommend?
Thanks so much again for this article,
Lindsay
Hi Lindsay
Thanks for your message.
You’re in the right place for what you’re describing, IMO. And I think you’ll appreciate the step up from the Forum Aura – keeping in mind that there’ll always be some adjustment when you’ve ridden a certain board for a good while.
Since you have East Coast conditions, something with good edge-hold in icy conditions is a good way to go. So I think the Rossignol Frenemy and YES Hel Yes would be great options for you. The Twin Sister would also work well. Not quite as good in hard/icy but not far off.
You could also consider something from this list, assuming you don’t see a lot of powder, or don’t ride off-groomer.
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Size-wise, I think something around 147 to 149 would be a good range to look at. For the boards mentioned above, I would go with:
~ Frenemy: 147 (or 150 if you wanted to stay closer to your current length)
~ Hel Yes: 149
~ Twin Sister: 149
Hope this helps with your search
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your articles, very useful!
I’m 36y, living in French Alps for 5 years and been riding for… 20 years now! Time flies… Anyway! I consider myself as an “advanced” rider, I love going fast on slopes and powder. I used to ride a Burton Blender 145 (2012) and I’m now looking for a stiffer board as I don’t feel confident anymore on this one (vibrations). I don’t jump a lot but I’ve always liked to try and play sometimes in the park and switch. I still hope to be able to jump well one day!
I would like to buy the Jones Twin Sister 149 (falling in love with this board by reading all reviews and descriptions). However I’ve seen on some websites that it’s been designed for “intermediate” so I’m afraid to be disappointed, or to get a board too similar to the Burton Blender (that I loved BTW, very playful, the only issue is when I’m riding fast). I think that 149 would be better than the 145 for stability and powder.
I’ve also seen the Jones Flagship but I’m afraid it will be too stiff and not playful enough. What do you think?
What about the Burton Feelgood compared to the Jones then?
Thanks a lot!
Sandrine
Hi Sandrine
Thanks for your message.
As an advanced rider you could go with something like the Flagship or another freeride type board, but since you still like to get in the park and ride switch, then something more all-mountain would be a good idea.
The Blender looks like it was quite a soft board and all rocker. So, I wouldn’t be worried about the Twin Sister being the same. It will, IMO, certainly be better for speed and carving.
Burton Feelgood (camber) would be an option and match the Twin Sister for speed and be a slightly better carver – but you would be sacrificing some powder performance in comparison. Also, you would be going from an all-rocker to an all-camber profile which would probably take a while to get comfortable with, if you’re not used to camber.
Size-wise, it’s hard to say without knowing your specs, but certainly going longer helps with stability at speed, float in powder and IMO better for long wide carves. But not as good for tricks and not as good in trees (if you ride in trees too). Also going 145 Twin Sister will be very different to 145 Blender. But 149 might still be the best option. If you’re happy to make that judgement you can do that, but I’m happy to make a recommendation if you’d like one. I would just need your height, wight and boot size (i already have your ability and how you like to ride).
I wouldn’t say that the Twin Sister is strictly an “intermediate” board. I would say it’s good for those from “intermediate to advanced”.
Some other good options, IMO, based on what you’re describing would be the YES Hel Yes and the Never Summer Aura.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate!
Thanks a lot for your reply 🙂
I measure 161cm for 62kg and boots 40.5 (Burton Emerald EU size).
I still hesitate between the Flagship and the Twin Sister… And indeed, the Yes Hel Yes seems another good option as well…
And why not the Arbor Swoon Camber from your POV?
I’m totally lost because I really love having the option of doing everything, even if most of the time, I’m carving or riding in the pow…
Thanks for your help!
Hi Sandrine
The main reason I would say no to Swoon Camber, is that you’ll have to work harder to ride powder, and since it sounds like you like to ride powder, I think there are better options. And also, like with the Feelgood Camber, it would take quite a bit of getting used to going from all-rocker.
In my opinion, you are going to see significant improvements for carving in something like the Twin Sister and Hel Yes, compared to your current board. You’d see a bit more again in the Flagship, for sure, but you would be sacrificing that forgiveness and less suitable for doing other things, like you say.
Size-wise, I think something around 147 would be a good length for you, give or take. That’s assuming an advanced level, as it sounds like you are.
So, for the boards we are discussing, the following would be good sizes, IMO:
~ Twin Sister – 146 or 149. The 146 would still be a step up even though not much longer than your current board, but if you really wanted to enhance it for powder, stability at speed and camber, then the 149 is certainly an option. Also, the 149 has an effective edge of 111cm, which is the same as the effective edge on the two sizes that I would recommend for the others below. For reference the effective edge on the Blender 145, is 108cm
~ Flagship – 148 (effective edge 111cm).
~ Hel Yes – 146 (effective edge 111cm).
The width on all of those options would be appropriate for your boot size, too, IMO.
Hope this gives you more to go off
Hi Nate and happy new year!
Thanks for your advices, very helpful 🙂
You’re very welcome Sandrine. Happy new year and I hope you have a great season!
Hi! Thanks for the awesome post!
I was hoping to seek your advice on a new board.
I was using burton clash 2018 (hybrid all mountain) and loved how easy and stable it is for a beginner.
I have now progressed into intermediate learning to do more carving, jibs,powder and occasional park (prefer runs on piste and powder). Since I mostly ride in Japan, powder runs are unavoidable..but I personally prefer carving and being playful on the tracks. I really enjoy hybrid board (rocker, camber, rocker) , all rounder, stable at speed (clash burton doesn’t catch edge easily but isn’t so stable at high speed)
I was looking @ Yes Hel Yes!, birds of a feather, twin sister. And was hoping if you could recommend which board may be suited for my style. I’m 168cm tall and weigh about 57kg, Asian build.
Thanks!
Hi Joop
Thanks for your message.
I think the Hel Yes and Twin Sister would be great options for what you’re describing. The Birds of a Feather isn’t as good in powder, IMO.
Size-wise, for you I would go for:
>>Hel Yes – 146
>>Twin Sister – 146 as well – you could go 143 if you wanted something shorter, but I would be leaning towards 146.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi, Nate!
Thanks for how thorough you are in your responses, its super helpful for us readers! I’m an intermediate rider going into my 6th season, looking to progress in my carving confidence and speed, as well as in the park. I love cruising corduroy and working on my jumps, definitely an all-mountain dabbler! Currently still riding my first set up, a 2014 burton nugget 138: true twin, 3/10 flex, flat-to-rocker paired with ’14 burton scribes. It was a ton of fun to learn on and is still great for freestyle, but it’s tough to get it going fast and stay stable once I get there.
I learned to ride in Southern CA (aka icy to slushy groomers), but I’m up in the Sierras now and my nugget sinks like crazy on powder days! I still plan on keeping it for those early & late season days when I’d prefer to work on my park skills than constantly dodge rocks. However, I have ~4 weeks’ worth of riding days in Tahoe/CO planned this season, so I’m thinking the Jones Twin Sister for something a bit more on the freeride end of the AM spectrum…a board that has a bit more float & stiffness but doesn’t keep me out of the park entirely. I’ve yet to read a negative review of this board!
I’m 5’4″, 105 lbs, boot size women’s 6.5. Do you think a TS 143 would be suitable? The Jones weight/size chart puts me in the 139/143/146 options. I don’t want to pick up more board than I can handle coming from such a flexy and forgiving deck, so I’m worried about size and the 7/10 flex rating (but I’m probably overthinking it) I don’t want to go 139 and end up with the same issues. Thanks for your help!
Hi Caitlin
Thanks for your message.
I think the Twin Sister is a good option for you and that you’ll likely not know yourself for carving, speed and powder compared to the nugget.
I would put you on roughly around 142 for an all-mountain board, at an advanced level, so I would certainly be weighing up between the 139 and 143 as you are. Leaning towards the 139, as it’s also a better width for your boot size, and as you describe yourself as intermediate.
Even though the 139 would only be 1cm longer overall compared to the 138 Nugget, it does have a considerably longer effective edge, so will feel longer overall. That and the camber in the profile, the extra flex and the more directional shape should make it noticeably better for carving speed and powder, even at the 139 length. The 143 would be a step better again for powder, speed and carving. But there’s a chance that you would be sacrificing more maneuverability at slower speeds for your liking. And the 143 would be more difficult to handle in the park.
I don’t think the 143 would be way too big for you, but would certainly be more board to handle than the 139. Overall, based on what you’re describing, I would be leaning towards the 139, but if you really wanted to favor powder, speed and carving over park and maneuverability, then the 143 is certainly an option.
Hope this helps and all makes sense
Hi Nate,
I am an intermediate rider looking to begin boarding in the back country a bit more. I grew up boarding in pretty icy conditions. Being able to ride switch and fast is important to me. I was originally looking at the Capita Birds of a Feather, given how many awards the board has received. I am looking for Hybrid Camber, and medium flex. 135 lbs, 5’4, women’s size 7 US. I am finding conflicting research about the appropriate length of a board, but I am leaning towards 152-155. Does that sound right? Other boards I am looking at are the Yes Hel Ye, GNU Klassy, and Brossignol Diva LF.
Hi Clare
Thanks for your message.
Size-wise, I wouldn’t be looking at going that long for your specs. Something around 148 would be better, IMO. It does depend on what you’re used to as well, and if you’re used to riding something longer, then there’s certainly room to go a little longer, but I wouldn’t go as long as 155 if I was you.
Without knowing what you’re used to, I would say either 146 or 148 for the Birds of a Feather.
Since you’re looking to do more backcountry, I’m not sure the Birds of a Feather is what I would go for either. I would be looking at something that’s better in powder. For which the Klassy and then the Hel Yes would be your best options.
The Birds of a Feather and Diva LF would be the best options for riding switch, with the Hel Yes in between – better for switch than the Klassy.
The Diva, Hel Yes and Klassy are better, IMO, in hard.icy conditions than the Birds of a Feather too.
The Birds of a Feather is a great deck, IMO, but for your purposes I don’t necessarily think it’s the best option. Don’t get me wrong it would do the job, but in this case, I think others would be more suitable.
Overall, I think the Hel Yes would be the best option as a balance between powder performance, edge-hold in hard/icy conditions and still being able to ride switch fine (as well as other good qualities). I would be leaning towards the 149 or 146, but if you’re used to something longer, or if you really want to go longer, then the 152 becomes an option. But I personally wouldn’t recommend longer than the 149 for you.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
These decisions are so hard!!! I’ve been on the 2008 Infinity Never Summer – the first and only board I’ve purchased after renting through the beginner stages. The minute I stepped onto that board I loved it. Things that I was struggling with immediately got easier and here we are 10 years later. I board 1-2 times per year in great conditions usually Montana and Colorado with a mix of great groomers and powder days when lucky (but as my kids age we may go more often). Lots of lessons and I’m at the point where instructors say I’m advanced but I sometimes let my brain take over- had a bad spill with some bad injuries some years back. That being said, when I don’t think I can kill it on advanced runs and do some trees and bumpy runs. I love to carve big turns (my background is skiing) but I need out of my comfort zone a bit. I don’t do any terrain parks or tricks – but maybe in the future as my young kids get more advanced and I want to stick with them. I want something that I can take everywhere and not worry about the conditions and I can continue to advance my skills like riding switch when in a pinch and making small turns on narrow cats. AND I’m in my 40s but in great shape but I don’t want to work too hard – its really all about the fun for me at this age. Question 1 – do I need a new board? What is the shelf life of a board and how much has changed? Question 2 – what all around board?
Hi Maggie
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say that 100% you need a new board, if you’re still enjoying your current board. But things have advanced a fair bit with snowboards since then, so you could certainly notice the difference, IMO.
The other thing is that you, based on what you’re describing, you could probably benefit from something a little stiffer flexing – it would help to improve carving and stability at speed. And after 10 years, your Infinity is likely softer than when you first got it. Not sure how the flex of the 2008 Infinity compares with the latest Infinity but I think it was still supposed to be a softer board back then. At the same time, given that you want to ride with your kids and that you don’t want anything you have to work too hard on, I wouldn’t go too stiff. But stepping up to something 5/10 to 6/10 would be a good way to go, IMO.
If you do decide to change, I think you’re looking in the right place looking at something all-mountain, based on what you’re describing. Pretty much anything from this list is likely to treat you well, IMO . Though maybe not the Swoon, just because it sounds like you see a lot of powder, and you probably don’t want a decrease in powder performance.
Hope this helps with your decision
Any opinions on the 2019 Salomon Rumble Fish? I’m an intermediate rider looking for a good board to progress with. I’m interested in learning butter tricks with the option of going in some pow too. I’ve been looking at the Rumble Fish, but I haven’t found many reviews on it.
Hi Morgan
I think the Rumble Fish could work well for you. I wouldn’t say it’s the very easiest board to butter with, but it’s pretty easy to butter (based on the men’s equivalent Assassin). But a lot boards that are easier to butter on tend to be quite soft flexing, so you loose out in other areas then. I think the Rumble Fish would be a good balance between progressing your general riding and learning butter tricks. I wouldn’t say it’s amazing in powder but it’s better in powder than some all-mountain-freestyle options, IMO.
You can check out my ratings for it at the following:
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hello Nate. I am trying to get my wife a new set up. She is an advanced all mountain rider that enjoys riding fast and carving. Does some tree runs and powder but mainly bombing steel groomers. She is currently riding a feelgood es from 2007 154 size 9 boots 5’5 170. I am looking at a 152 2017 NS Aura but am worried it is too small. Any advice would be much appreciated !!
Hi Jeremy
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think 152 is overly small for her specs, but given how she likes to ride and the size she’s used to, the 155 (not sure whether or not you have that available) might be better. The 152 would have a little bit less effective edge (1180mm) vs the 2007 Feelgood 154 (1195mm) so it’s a size drop she is likely notice in that respect. The 155 Aura is 1200mm which is closer to the 154 Feelgood. In terms of powder the 152 Aura is likely to be better than the 154 Feelgood, even though it’s smaller, but she would probably loose a little in terms of stability at speed and for carving, IMO. The 152 would also be more suitable in trees, but since she does that less often, the longer 155 might be a better choice overall (if it was available).
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks Nate. The Aura I found is 1 year old and barely used and only 150$ so it’s hard to decide since I feel like that price is so solid. Any other boards your may recommend for her that I could keep an eye out for?
Hi Jeremy
That is an awesome price! So I can see the temptation there. And it’s certainly not way off in terms of size.
Some other options:
Yes Hel Yes: 155
Arbor Swoon Camber: 155
Or something Freeride, since it sounds like that kind of board would suit her style. Some options here:
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freeride Snowboards
Hope this gives you more options, if you don’t go with the 152 Aura
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the reviews! I’m in desperate need of a new board. I’ve been boarding for many years, but I haven’t been hitting the slopes as much as I’d like each season and thus have stuck with my really old board. Now, I’m ready to invest in a new one along with bindings and boots. I’m an intermediate/advanced rider, but I tend to stay out of the park. I ride goofy and don’t ride switch too often. I’m 5’5″ and about 135 lbs. I’ll probably get an all mountain board and am considering the Gnu Ladies Choice or the Never Summer Infinity or Proto Type Two. What are your thoughts?
Thanks, Mel
Hi Mel
Not sure if you got my reply to your first message (see above).
Hi Nate,
Thanks so much for the reviews. I am in desperate need of a new board. I’ve been riding for many years, but I don’t get to ride that often each season so I’ve stuck with my old board for a really long time. I’m an intermediate/advanced rider and am looking for a good all mountain board. I’m considering either the Gnu Ladies Choice or the Never Summer Infinity or Proto Type Two. I’m 5’5″ and about 135 lbs. I ride goofy and don’t ride switch very often, and I tend to stay out of the park. I’d love your suggestions thoughts on these boards. I’ll also be looking for a complete set-up with new bindings – something quick and easy to get into – and new boots, too.
Hi Mel
Thanks for your message.
I would consider the GNU Ladies Choice and the Proto Type Two as being more all-mountain-freestyle but that’s not a problem, they’re still really versatile. Main thing is, if you ride a lot of powder, especially deep powder, then they would be less appropriate, IMO. But if you only ever ride powder occasionally or never really get deep powder, then that’s no problem. And the Ladies Choice is a little better in powder than the PT2. I would say PT2 = 2.5/5 for powder, the Ladies Choice 3/5 and the Infinity 3.5/5.
The Infinity is quite a playful, as opposed to aggressive all mountain ride. If that’s what you’re looking for, then that’s certainly an option. It’s a little softer flexing than the PT2 and the Ladies Choice, and has a more mellow camber profile.
Size-wise, I would look at the following for each of those boards:
Ladies Choice: 145.5
PT2: 145
Infinity: 148 (or 145 if you wanted to go shorter)
You could also go up to the 148.5 for the Ladies Choice and the 147 for the Proto Type Two. If you’re used to riding something longer, then you might want to size up to the 147/148. For the Infinity you could definitely get on the 148. For all-mountain-freestyle boards, I like to go a little shorter. Though if you’re not doing a lot of freestyle stuff, then there’s less incentive to go shorter.
In terms of bindings and boots, check out the following. For the PT2 and Ladies Choice I would look at bindings with a flex of either 5/10 or 6/10. For the Infinity, something 4/10 or 5/10, ideally, but you could also go with 6/10 for that.
>>Top Women’s Freestyle Bindings
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
>>My Top Women’s Freestyle Snowboard Boots
>>My Top Women’s All-Mountain Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions or comments
Hi Nate,
I’m looking for a board that I can grow into and am looking at the Twin Sister.
– I am currently at a beginner intermediate level. I can go down the mountain properly and am starting to pick up speed. Do you believe the Twin Sister would be a good board to grow into at my level? I’ll be snowboarding mostly in Norway (more chances of it being a bit icy) as well as Colorado.
– I’m 125 LBS, 5′ 7″ tall, and current boot size of 10 (though it’s more 9/ 9.5 realistically as they are small to size). In terms of weight I’d go for the 149, but in terms of length and boot size, perhaps the 152 would be better?
– Finally, my current bindings (as well as board) are pretty crappy so I’ll definitely be looking for a full new set up. Any suggestions on bindings?
Thanks a lot!
Kind regards,
Evelien
Hi Evelien
Thanks for your message.
I think the Twin Sister is a good option from intermediate and up and it’s the kind of board that can grow with you and something you could ride indefinitely if you wanted to. If you feel you’re close to an intermediate level, then I think it would be a good choice.
However, in terms of size, I think the 146 would be your best choice. You could ride the 149 as well but I think that’s getting slightly too long to be ideal. Doable but not ideal. And would be a steeper learning curve and perhaps then not as appropriate for your level. The 152 would be too long, IMO.
In terms of width, it would be cutting it close with the 146, but you might be OK depending on a couple of things. Just to clarify, you’re saying you have size 10 boots currently. Is that US Women’s 10? And you’re saying you think they’re too big for you and you’re probably going to change to a 9 or 9.5? If you end up with a 9 (US Women’s 9), then you should be fine width-wise. If you end up with a 9.5, then you might still be OK, but it would depend on binding angles. If you ride with something like a +15/-15 or similar (i.e. a reasonable angle on the back foot) then it should be fine width-wise. If you ride with a really straight back foot, like +18/+3 or something like that then it would be risking it being too narrow. Not sure if you have set binding angles, but if you know them, that could help to decide.
In terms of bindings, check out the following, which would be a suitable match for the Twin Sister.
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
If you need more options outside those let me know. And yeah if you could clarify your boot size, then I can make a more accurate prediction regarding whether or not the width of the 146 Twin Sister will be OK or not.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, Thank you so much the reviews – they’re awesome! I’m desperate for some advice, I’m very confused about what kind of board would suit me best. I did a week of learning on a rented board Salomon Liberty (which I believe is a directional flat camber) a few years ago and loved riding it. I got quite confident pretty fast on it. I then bought Capita Birds of a feather 2016 model and really hated riding it. I did three 5 day trips with it. My carving got quite good when it was a good snow day, but usually in higher speeds it felt unstable and it didn’t hold on icy conditions at the alps at all. It wasn’t as fun to ride as the Salomon Liberty had been. I really enjoy riding goofy and doing little ollies and I thought I would enjoy a playful board, but I don’t do any park riding. First I thought maybe I need a more forgiving ride with a good magne-traction edge hold like the B-Nice or chromatic, but now I’m thinking maybe I need a more stable all mountain board so I can go fast on it.. Is there a board that is good in higher speeds, yet doesn’t catch edges, is fun to ride goofy on but with great edge hold on icy conditions? I have been thinking maybe the Frenemy, Yes Emoticon or Gnu asym Velvet Gnuru. What are your thoughts? I’m 5’7, weight 120lbs and my boot size is 6. If I were to go for the Frenemy do you think a size 147 would be good? Thank you so so much in advance.
Hi Ella
Thanks for your message.
I’m not familiar with the Salomon Liberty but from what I could find it is pretty beginner friendly, and like you say – has a flat camber profile and directional shape.
The Birds of a Feather is a softer flexing board but it’s not necessarily what I would consider overly playful. It has quite an aggressive camber profile, which has it’s advantages but can also make a board feel catchy for some. Also, I’m not surprised about what you describe about how it felt in softer snow compared to harder/icy snow. It’s not something that I would rate very highly for hard/icy conditions.
Since you’re looking for a more stable feeling and since you need something that’s good in hard/icy conditions, I think the Frenemy and Emoticon would certainly be good options. The Velvet Gnuru would work too, in terms of hard/icy conditions but it’s a looser feeling board than the other two. Both the Frenemy and the Emoticon are also boards that aren’t catchy.
The Emoticon will, IMO, be better for riding switch and for ollies/jumps, IMO. But the Frenemy will be better/more stable at speed and better in powder. Overall, from what you’re describing I would say Frenemy would be your best bet out of those two.
But you could also look at the Twin Sister. It’s a little stiffer and not quite as good in hard/icy than the Frenemy (but still pretty good) but it’s also a little better at speed.
The YES Hel Yes is also a great hard/icy snow option, but it might be a little aggressive for you at this stage.
Something around 147 in length would be a good size for you, if you considered yourself at an advanced level. If you think you’re more of an intermediate level, then it can be good to take off a couple of cms. The other thing to consider is width. When you say size 6, do you mean a US Women’s 6 or a UK 6? If it’s a US Women’s 6, then I would be more inclined to going a little shorter to compensate for the fact that these boards will be on the wide side for you. In that case, the 144 Frenemy and the 143 Twin Sister would be the better options. If a UK 6, then the 147 Frenemy and 146 Twin Sister are probably the better options, given that you want that extra stability at speed, but the 144 and 143 would still be options.
Generally speaking shorter = better in trees, more maneuverable at slow speeds and better for jumps, spins, jibs, butters etc (freestyle stuff) and longer = better stability at speed, more float in powder, and better for wider/longer carves.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Thank you so so much for your reply! You really are amazing! I think I will go for the Frenemy, I’m just wondering about how the width of the board affects the ride? My Capita Birds of the Feather board is 144cm but it felt a little bit short. My friend has the same board in 148cm and we swapped boards for a few days as she was struggling with her board’s length. I actually preferred it to my board as it did feel more stable, yet was tiring to manoeuvre in any kind of choppy end of the day snow, and also not so fun when I was a bit tired. I felt 146cm in that board would had been the best size, I hence wonder taking into consideration the Frenemy’s wideness if the 144cm or 147cm would be better? I’m definitely not an advanced rider, more of a beginner/intermediate and my boot size is 6 US. Thanks so much for all your help!
Hi Ella
Thanks for the extra info.
Yeah I would be leaning towards the 144 Frenemy. The 147 is similar in length to the 148 Birds of a Feather in the sense that the 147 Frenemy and 148 Birds of a Feather have the same effective edge. And the 147 Frenemy is going to be a little wider at the inserts. The 144 Frenemy is going to be a good bit wider at the inserts compared to your Birds of a Feather 144 and quite wide for 6s, IMO. Going too wide can make turns more physically fatiguing and less maneuverable, but going a little shorter you gain some of that ease of maneuverability back.
The 144 Frenemy is similar (just a touch longer) in terms of effective edge to the 144 Birds of a Feather, so you won’t be getting any significant increase in effective edge, but overall I think it will be a better option for you, particularly with that extra edge-hold in hard/icy conditions.
One other option to look at – hopefully not to consfuse things more! Is the Nitro Mystique. Not quite as good edge-hold in hard/icy as the Frenemy, but the 146 would be an appropriate length for that board and is narrower overall than the Frenemy. Another option to consider but I think the Frenemy 144 would work too.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much, this has been super helpful! I decided to go with the Frenemy 144cm. Can’t wait to try it out next month! Thanks again 🙂
You’re very welcome Ella. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to ride it. Happy riding!
Hi again Nate 🙂
I just realised that the Birds of Feather 2016 had quite a bit longer effective edge than the 2019 board, for 144cm the effective edge was 113.9. I wonder if the 144 Frenemy’s 108 effective edge is gonna feel short in comparison? I know the Frenemy is wider and has a directional shape, so I don’t know if losing the length on the effective edge is gonna be noticeable. Would you still recommend the 144cm over the 147cm? Thanks so much for all your help!
Hi Ella
Good spotting!
Upon further investigation, it seems a few of Capita’s boards changed in terms of effective edge (initially for the 2018 model). But I can’t see what other specs changed that would have lead to that adjustment in effective edge figures. So, I’m not sure if Capita just changed how they measured their effective edges, or if the effective edge is actually different now.
Was your friends 148 also 2016 or 2017 or was it newer?
Hi Nate,
Thanks for these reviews, they are really very detailed and useful. I want to ask for your advise of choosing a snowboard for my wife. She is 163cm and 120lbs. Her riding ability is around intermediate to advanced. Mostly prefer to ride all mountain style but sometimes might try some freestyle manoeuvres. Here are some boards we are considering.
– Rossignol Diva 148, 2018
– Rossignol Frenemy 147, 2018
– Salomon Wonder 146, 2018
– Yes Hel Yes 146, 2019
Which boards/length are you suggesting?
Hi Leechun
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Diva is a more aggressive and more freestyle oriented option compared to the other 3. So, that’s probably the least appropriate I would say, from what you’re describing. It’s not as versatile as the other 3, IMO. But the other 3 would all certainly be suitable from what you’re describing.
Size-wise, generally speaking I would say something, in the range between 143 and 145. So you could go 143 for the Wonder or 144 for the Frenemy. But 146 would still be an appropriate size – and for the Hel Yes, that’s the shortest option, so if you were to go for that, then the 146 would be your best bet.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I tend to hold on to boards for along time.. like a loooooong time, but am getting close to time for a new one. I went from a 153′ 1995 Burton Brushie (dating myself I know) to a 154′ Burton Feelgood (maybe around 2007? could be earlier.. it was pre-channel bindings :/). I’m intermediate/advanced, prefer time in the trees but sometimes on hardpack groomers and the occasional kicker. At the mercy of the conditions of the mountain that day! I am 5’6″ish and 164 ish lbs… (also just got Burton Lexa bindings, but think I can still get the bolt disc plate). Suggestions?
Hi Katie
Thanks for your message.
Starting with size. I think something around that 153, 154 mark is a good length for you, and since it’s a length that you’re used to as well, I think it would be a good idea to stick with something around that.
Since everything you’ve ridden previously has been all camber, I also think it’s a good idea to stick with either full camber or a hybrid camber (camber between the feet with rocker towards tip and tail). I think going with something that has too much rocker, or rocker between the feet might be quite weird for you at this stage. It’s not a no-go, if you wanted to try something different, but if you don’t too much of an adjustment, then Camber or Hybrid Camber would be your best bet.
One Option is to go Burton Feelgood again – the longest size in the 2019 model is 152, but I think that would be fine. And going a little shorter will help in the trees too. It’s still going to be an improved ride from your 2007 model, but won’t be a big leap in terms of having a different feel.
But I think you’d also really like the Jones Twin Sister and YES Hel Yes (both Hybrid Camber). The Hel Yes a particularly good option if you ride in hard/icy conditions a lot – though the Twin Sister isn’t bad in those conditions either.
For both it would be a toss up between the 152 and 155. Pros for the 152 would be better in trees, better maneuverability at slower speeds. Better for more freestyle stuff. Pros for 155 would be more float in powder, better stability at speed. Note that the effective edge on the 155 Twin Sister (1160mm) and 155 Hel Yes (1170mm), is closer to the effective edge on the Feelgood 152 (1165mm) than the 152s of those boards are.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
I’d love your advice. I’m 5′ 4″ and 130lbs. I’ve been riding for decades. I like speed and carving but I spend a good deal of time exploring tight trees and mashing up choppy stuff. I like to ride switch a little and play around with small jumps, 180s etc. too. I’ve been riding burton Feelgood cambers for awhile and my current one is getting old. It’s a 152. I feel like my favorite board ever was a Burton Custom 148 (yr 2000). Do they even make a 148 anymore? How does the Custom really compare to the Feelgood? What other boards should I be considering? I don’t want something sloppy, it’s got to hold an edge, feel stable, but be light and fun to whip around when I want. Don’t see enough powder to worry about that.
Hi Michelle
Thanks for your message.
If you like camber and don’t see that much powder, then I think sticking to something camber is probably a good idea.
Size-wise, I would say something around 147, 148 would be the best size for you, given your specs, style and riding at an advanced level. However, if you’re used to a 152, then you could go a little longer than that. That said, going a little shorter would help with tight trees. Speed and carving likes length, in my opinion, so you wouldn’t want to go too short to effect those aspects too much. So, something between 147 and 150 is good range, I reckon.
The Custom camber’s smallest size for the current model is 150, which I think is a doable length if that’s something you wanted to look at. The only thing is if it’s going to be too wide for you. What’s your boot size? In saying that the Custom 150 isn’t hugely wider than the 152 Feelgood. But also may not be ideal, depending on your boot size.
Whilst not completely identical, the Feelgood (2019) and the Custom (2019) are really really similar. So, if the Feelgood was going to be a better width, then I think that’s the better option. And the 149 might be a better length for you than your current 152. The 149 Feelgood has the same effective edge as the 150 Custom, so, in terms of carving and speed, the same length essentially.
Note though that the new Custom and the new Feelgood are quite different now to older models (especially compared to a 2000 Custom! – not sure of the age of your feelgood).
So yeah, depending on boot size, I think the Feelgood 149 would be a good option.
You could also check out something like the Nitro Fate in a 147 or 150. Or the Arbor Swoon Camber – although Arbor boards tend to be a little heavier, based on the ones that I’ve weighed, so if you’re looking for something light that might not be an option.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
I hope you can help. You gave me some advice when I was looking to buy my first board a couple of years ago and I’ve loved my Rossignol Frenemy ever since. However, I can’t decide whether to try something new and am wondering what the current advice would be. I’ve been snowboarding nearly 3 years now and was getting confident on the red runs on our last holiday. I’m slowly gaining confidence at switch but progressing to Freestyle still eludes me. I had one taster lesson (the only one offered at my local snowdome) but have found it difficult to progress with little jumps, ollies etc. by myself. As I spend all my time in the snowdome (in the UK), apart from one holiday a year (Austria coming up in January), I’m keen to learn just a little freestyle to keep things interesting. I know most of it is my lack of confidence and ability, but I do also wonder whether I should be trying something more flex-y.
I’m 5’7” and around 140-147lbs (64-67kg). My boots are Northwave Dominos in a UK Size 7/US 9. I ride with 15 degrees on each foot (I think!), and my board is currently a 150. Bindings are Burton Scribes in large (possibly thinking of getting new as my boots are a super tight fit in these). However, I don’t think I’d want to go any narrower with the waist width as I feel I’m on the cusp with the overhang.
Should I just stick with my much loved Frenemy? It’s great in the ice, which is perfect in the snowdome, but I just don’t know whether something a little shorter or more flexible might help with learning Freestyle (I’m truly hopeless). Would really appreciate your thoughts. Many thanks ?
Hi Kate
Thanks for your message.
Glad that you’re loving the Frenemy, and that it sounds like you’re progressing nicely!
Ideally, if you’re going to start out with freestyle stuff, then yeah, going with something softer and more freestyle oriented is a good way to go. Will make it easier and give you more confidence to start with. The Frenemy is by no means a bad board for riding freestyle, but it’s also not ideal. If you didn’t want to buy another board to learn freestyle on, then you could try widening your stance on the Frenemy. That would just give you a bit more of a stable landing platform – you loose a bit of maneuverability with a wide stance but you gain a more stable platform. I’d say it would help a little – and then you could move it back to your regular stance when you want that maneuvarability back.
But ideally you would get a second board as a dedicated freestyle board. And ideally you also want something a little shorter. Going shorter would also help you learn freestyle and give you more confidence. Your Frenemy’s size is great for you for riding the mountain, IMO and would be fine for freestyle too, if you were already confident with it. But shorter will definitely help to learn. So, shorter, softer flex and more freestyle oriented in its specs is the way to go.
Size-wise, I would say something anything from 145 to 149 would be a good freestyle length for you. But since you already have a 150 all-mountain board, and since you are just starting out with freestyle it would make sense to go on the shorter side of that range. So, something 145 to 147 would work well, IMO.
The other thing to mention is that, since you’re just starting out with freestyle stuff, that going with a friendly camber profile is also a good idea. Some freestyle boards are more aggressive and have a lot of camber. Since, you’re just starting out with freestyle and looking to gain confidence, I wouldn’t recommend one of those.
Check out the list below to get some ideas of options, but probably leave out the Cadence Camber and the Burton Rewind (as the camber would be too aggressive) and the Ladies Choice (not overly aggressive in the camber, but combination of reasonable camber and being a little stiffer makes it not ideal for your purposes, IMO).
>>My Top 5 Women’s Freestyle Snowboards
Also taking into account width – as you said you didn’t want anything narrower than what you have, then I would recommend the following:
~ Rossignol Meraki 145 (240mm waist) – also good edge-hold in hard/icy conditions so would be a good choice, IMO.
~ Niche Minx 146 (243mm waist) – this would be a really good size for you, IMO and otherwise also a good choice for learning freestyle – also good in hard/icy conditions
~ Capita Space Metal Fantasy 147 (239mm waist) – getting a little narrower but otherwise another good option, IMO (though not as good in hard/icy as the 2 above)
~ Burton Yeasayer 148 (244mm waist) – a little longer than ideal and also not as good in hard/icy conditions, but otherwise fits the bill
There are a lot of other options that would be suitable but are often too narrow in those lengths. There will be more options, but those are the ones that I found for now and I think they would work well, especially the first 2.
You could try widening the stance on your Frenemy and see if that makes any difference and if not, then look into one of those?
Anyway, hope this helps
Thanks so much for your advice, that really helps! I will give the wider stance a go and see how I progress. I know it’s a confidence thing more than anything, but also feel I could do with all the help I can get. It would just be nice to improve and keep things interesting in the snowdome. I’ll certainly have a look at the boards and maybe see what I can afford come Christmas time! Thanks again 🙂
You’re very welcome Kate. Yeah certainly a board that’s easier to ride freestyle would help to give you more confidence but yeah give that stance a try and see how you go. Happy riding!
Please, correct your description for Jones Twin Sister: it’s stiffness=7, not 6.
Hi Darya
Thanks for your message. I did see that the official stiffness rating for the Twin Sister is 7. However, I like to rate them as I see them and try to give a universal rating that’s cross-brand. But I’m rating this based on the fact that I feel the Mountain Twin is 6/10 by feel on snow, rather than 7/10 as its rated. But if the Twin Sister doesn’t translate to the Mountain Twin as accurately as I thought, then I’m open to discussing that.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for your reviews, it helps a lot!!
I’m an intermediate rider that prefers off-piste but not always get to ride at the prefect conditions, so I have to be geared up to face the icy slopes as well (it happens a lot here in Russia). Sometimes I ride at snowparks, but only do boxes and little kickers, nothing serious.
I used to ride Burton Blender (V-Rocker, Mid-Spoon) for 5 seasons and was so happy with that board! Had to change it because I got Flux bindings as a present and it was not matching with Burton bindings system. So I got myself a Roxy Radiance board which I just didn’t understand. Had to sell it after only one season as the riding experience was not as fun and pleasant as it was with Burton.
So now I’m looking for a new board that would suit me 🙂 I’ve been thinking about Jones Twin Sister or Yes Hel Yes after your review but unfortunately I can’t get it here in Russia. What other option would you recommend me?
I’m 165 cm, 60 kg, snbrd boots size – 8,5.
Thanks a lot!
Hi Vesper
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I think something like the Rossignol Frenemy could work for you. It’s a very versatile board that would work for your park stuff, but can also ride off-piste and is good in icy conditions. Not sure if you have that available in Russia, not sure what brands are available there. You could also look at something like the Salomon Wonder if that’s available. There’s also the Nitro Mystique, which looks like it would be a similar feel to the Burton Blender. It’s a little softer (4/10) than the others on this list, but if you don’t mind that, it could work too.
Size-wise, I think the 147 if you went for the Frenemy. Though you could also ride the 144 – but I think the 147 would be better for when you do get powder, go off-piste etc. The 144 better for when you hit the park but overall the 147 is probably your best choice. But what you’re used to also comes into it. If you’re used to riding something considerably shorter than 147, then the 144 might be the better option.
Generally speaking something in the 144 to 147 range would be a good length for you, IMO. But if you could let me know the size of your Blender and your Radiance, if you can remember, that would help too.
Hope this helps
Hi, Nate! I’m gearing up for my 2nd season and looking for a new board. I learned on a K2 Moment 146 that my boyfriend set me up with, but it’s pretty beat up and I need new bindings anyway. I rode about 30 times last season and was easily navigating blues and a few blacks by march. We ride NY and VT regularly, but hoping for a trip out West this year. I’m trying to find a board that will fit my progression. I think I’m an intermediate (on the low side though), and don’t plan on a lot of park riding. We definitely get ice here, but I don’t work when it snows so i was able to have a lot of fresh powder days last season as well. I’m trying to improve my speed this season and dig in more with my carving. I caught a few hard edges last year that left me a bit hesitant. I just don’t know what boards to look at. Any suggestions would be appreciated!
Hi Ashley
Thanks for your message.
I think you’re looking in the right place, since you’re at that intermediate level. The kinds of boards in this list are a good next step up and since you’ve ridden a good 30 days, it’s likely you’re ready for the step up. It will take some adjustment of course, but once you’re used to it, you’ll start to really appreciate the difference – especially for stability at speed and for carving.
I would cross off the Feelgood, just because it’s all camber and something that’s not that intermediate friendly. Also, the Feelgood Flying V isn’t that good in hard/icy conditions, so cross that too. The Infinity isn’t going to be as good as others on this list in terms of speed and carving, so that’s one you could also consider crossing off. Though it would be the easiest to progress on. I’d say similar things about the Frenemy.
The Dream Catcher and the Twin Sister would be your best bets in my opinion.
Size is also important. I’m happy to recommend a size if you’re able to let me know your height, weight and boot size.
Hope this helps
Thanks so much! I would love a size recommendation. I’m 5’4, about 125lbs and wear a 7.5 boot. 143 was recommended to me by a few shops, but I’m still searching. Thanks!
Hi Ashley
Yeah, I would say something around a 143, 144 for your level/specs, would be a good bet.
For the Twin Sister I would say 143.
The Dream Catcher is the kind of board that is good to go a little longer, so for that I’d say 145.
Frenemy 144.
Hope this helps and let me know if you need anymore help for your search
I think I’ve landed on the Frenemy. I’m having a hard time finding a 144, but I have found 147. Would that be too big? Also, any binding recommendations? I’ll probably go Union, but I’m open to suggestions!! Thanks!!
Hi Ashley
I think 147 is something you could ride at a more advanced level, but I think it’s going to be too big for now. I think the 144 would be a much better length – and a better width, for you. 147 doable, but if you can find the 144 I think that would be better.
I think Union Trilogy would be your best bet but the Union Juliet would also be suitable.
Also check out:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
For other options.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate,
Im looking to upgrade my board. Ive been on the 146cm forum spinster and have always found that it made progressing really difficult as it was my first board. I went graphics over functionality! Im currently intermediate skill level riding in Australia and NZ. Looking for an all mountain board to gain more confidence at higher speeds and steeper runs.
Ive been looking at either the rossignol frenemy 150 or Salomon wander 150cm. Im 73kg and 165cm however i suspect ill be back to my usual weight of 66-68kg by next season. Shoe size 7. Was just wondering which of those boards would be a better pick or if there was another board you could recommend ? Thanks in advance!
Hi Alana
Thanks for your message.
Based on 70kg, I think 150cm would be a good length for you. I don’t have any experience with Forum boards, but it sounds like the Spinster is a park board and quite soft flexing. The little bit more in terms of flex and more directional feel of an all-mountain board will certainly help for riding faster and steeper. So, even at the same length, you would likely gain something going for a more all-mountain board like the Frenemy or Wonder. But adding length and going to 150cm would also help there.
For the Wonder you could go either 146 or 150 – the 146 would be a better width for your boot size, but the 150 a better length, IMO. Overall, I’d say 150.
For the Frenemy either the 147 or 150 – again, 147 better width, but the 150 better size overall, IMO.
I would say skip the Infinity as it’s probably a little too soft flexing for what you’re looking for. And skip the Feelgood, just because it’s not as intermediate suitable. But anything else on this list would also work well for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thanks heaps Nate! I went for the frenemy after all ?
You’re very welcome Alana! If you think of it at, let me know what you think once you’ve had a chance to ride it.
Hi Nate,
I’m looking to upgrade my bindings and board for the season after riding 5 years on the same gear. Hoping to take advantage of some Labor Day sales so probably looking at 2017/2018 season. Currently have a full rocker 148 cm Burton with Burton bindings, 5′-6″ 130 lb with 7.5 (very narrow) feet.
Definitely need a high intermediate/expert board and bindings that can handle just about everything; riding fast down groomers, Colorado powder, trees, a bit of park (boxes and rails), and the occasional side country hike or switch day. Durability is also a bit of a concern – riding between 30-40 days a season. Would like to find something more aggressive than what I’m riding now but flexible enough that it can still be playful.
Thoughts on Now bindings? I’ve demo’ed them on a couple of groomers and liked the feel but they were on an unfamiliar men’s board so possibly too many unknown factors. Again, durability is an issue so leaning away from Unions and I have no interest in Flows.
Any info would be super helpful, thanks!
Hi Becca
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I think you’re looking in the right place. Sounds like you have a lot of variety in the way you ride, so an all-mountain board would be a great fit. And moving away from full rocker will definitely help with stability at speed and carving as well as helping to get more pop. But going full camber has its disadvantages, like not being as good in powder and, IMO, making boxes/rails more difficult. But yeah certainly more aggressive than a full rocker.
In terms of length, I would stick to around that 148cm mark. Sizing up can give you a bit more in terms of aggressiveness, stability at speed and more float in powder – but it also takes away from riding in the trees, and in the park. I think 148 is a good balance for your specs and ability. And if you’re moving to a board with more camber and that’s slightly stiffer flexing, then you’re getting the extra aggression, edge-hold, carving ability, stability at speed from those factors anyway.
From this list I would skip the Infinity as it might be just a bit too playful for what you’re looking for – and I would skip the Burton Feelgood as it’s full camber. Otherwise the other 4 would all make good options, IMO.
I’ve ridden a lot of Jones boards but I’ve never owned one, so I can’t comment on durability there. The Burton and Rossi boards I own have lasted fine so far (both 1 season old). Though my brothers Rossi has a crack in it (though he blames the tree that he tried to hug, rather than the board!)
Bindings
I have demoed NOW bindings once, so I haven’t had much time on them. I wouldn’t say I was blown away by them, but they were above average. Seemed sturdy to me, but couldn’t say for sure in terms of durability.
The Union bindings I and others I know own haven’t had any durability issues, but there are other options, if you’d prefer not to go Union. I also own Burton bindings and flux bindings and they’ve both held up well. I’ve owned Flux for a good few years and they seem really solid durability-wise.
For some good options in that mid-flex range, check out the following:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you for the reviews! I found them all super useful. May I ask for some advice when choosing btw Never summer proto type 2 and Salomon wonder? I am an intermediate & light weight (103lb), looking to learn some tricks. Which board do you recommend? Which is more stable/catch free? Thank you!
Hi Vanessa
Thanks for your message.
Overall I would recommend the Proto Type Two. But these are 2 slightly different boards.
The Wonder is more all-mountain oriented and the Proto Type Two more freestyle oriented (what I class as all-mountain-freestyle).
The Wonder has a small setback (10mm) and a directional twin shape (nose slightly longer than the tail) whereas the Proto Type Two is a true twin (or an asym twin to be more precise as it has a tighter sidecut on the heel side compared with the toe side), with a centered stance.
In terms of being catch-free, neither are the most catchy or the most un-catchy either. But I’d say that the Proto Type 2 would be the least of the 2. It’s pretty easy to skid your turns on and should be fine for an intermediate level rider. The Wonder would be fine too, but maybe just a little easier to catch an edge on. Both boards are quite stable.
Given that you’re looking to learn tricks, then I think the Proto Type Two would be the best pick for you. If you’d like a size recommendation, as it’s also important to get the size right, if you could just let me know your height and boot size (already have your weight from your post above), then I’d be happy to give you my opinion on the right size for you.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! I’m 4′ 10″, 97lbs and this was my first season riding. Looking for a beginner board to learn how to link turns and just cruise down groomed runs (maybe even carve?). I bought a pass for next season and really want to progress.
Currently have:
32 Lashed double boa, size 5
Union Rosa bindings, size small (2016)
Any suggestions? I live in California if that helps.
Hi Cy
Thanks for your message.
First of all, in terms of length, I would say that something around 136 would be a good length for your specs, if you were an advanced rider. As a beginner it’s a good idea to take off a bit of length (roughly 3-5cm) so something areound 131 to 133 would be a good range to look at. That would mean looking at a youth sized board, as women’s boards don’t come in that short. There are some that come in a 136, so if you were really keen to get a women’s board rather than a youth board, then there are options (check out link below):
>>My Top 10 Women’s Beginner Snowboards
But yeah, I would say try to go for something a little shorter as it will make progression easier/faster for you, initially.
Also, in terms of width, with size 5s, going for a youth board would allow you to get on something narrower. A lot of women’s boards will be a little too wide for size 5s, IMO.
That said, unfortunately I’m no expert on youth boards but these are some options that would be beginner friendly (based on specs) and in a good size range.
~ YES Fun Inc 133
~ Never Summer Starlet 130
~ K2 Kandi 134
~ Rome Royal Girls 134
~ Burton Deja Vu Smalls 130 (or 134)
~ Roxy Inspire 134
Like I say, I don’t have too much experience with youth boards but these would be good options in terms of being beginner friendly and also in a good size. But yeah if you really wanted to go Women’s I’d totally get that, and in that case try to find something no longer than 136, IMO.
Hope this helps
I was looking at the Twin Sister and it seems like its score is 73%, not 89%, which would put it at the bottom of the list, IF it makes it. Unless there was a mistake in the rating. This board caught my eye and I can’t seem to find too many customer reviews. I found it in store at 30% off, I think it would fit me according to the specs. Is there a mistake in the ratings? I hope there is ! Thanks for your answer 🙂
Hi Maude
Yes, the rating system is normalized. It’s a little bit complicated (but so are snowboards!). The total scores for each category of board are normalized based on the scores in that particular category. In the case of women’s all-mountain, they are normalized to 82. Which basically means that the total score added up is divided by 82 and multiplied by 100.
The main reason this is done is that a score like 73/100 wouldn’t sound very good and wouldn’t accurately represent how good the board is at doing what it does. This is the particularly the case for all-mountain boards, which don’t tend to score big in any one category because they are designed to be good at a bit of everything. More specialized boards tend to have a smaller normalization number (which makes the final score closer to the raw score) because they might get 5/5 in some categories – and the rating system is more weighted towards certain categories – whereas for all-mountain boards, the weightings are spread quite equally across all performance categories (which reflects that they are boards that are good at doing a bit of everything).
Hope this makes sense! But if it doesn’t, the Twin Sister essentially received the best score of all the all-mountain boards that I rated. 73/100 was the highest raw score.
Hi Nate !
Thanks for your explanation, It makes sense now. I saw the Twin Sister and fell in love with its design last weekend. I thought to myself that one can’t buy a board because it’s pretty, but it stayed in my head. It looked a bit long for me, I’m just 5’3” tall (160 cm) but I weight close to 170 pounds. According to Jones website, by weight, I should go for a 155. Then I found this website that gives an idea taking into account height and weight :
How to Choose Your Snowboard Size – Whitelines
According to this website, once again I should go for something in the 156-158 range.
I started learning March 11th , I’ve been 11 times so far. My board is 145cm, its a flow that was rented 3 years until I got it. I would consider myself an intermediate level 4 according to an earlier article you wrote.
Long story short, I bought the Twin Sister in the only size they had left (152cm) for a good price I believe (350$). Do you think this is a good move? I spoke to the seller at BasinSports and she was encouraging me to get the Never Summer Proto 2 (148cm) instead. She was really enthusiastic about that one, putting emphasis on the fact that the deeper heelside sidecut was helping a lot making it as easy on your heelside as on your toeside.
Any thoughts?
Thank you!
Hi Maude
In terms of size I would say you are spot on with the 152. I would put you at around 153cm give or take, so 152 is just right, IMO, as an intermediate rider. The 155 would be a touch too long, IMO, and whilst the 149 would probably be the better size for you as a beginner, I think the 152 is something that you can ride forever, whereas the 149 is probably something you would have wanted to size up a bit from at some stage if you went for that. But year, IMO, the 155 would be too long for you.
This is my take on length sizing:
>>Snowboard Length Sizing
I think the 145 wasn’t a bad choice to begin with as it’s easier to learn on a smaller board. But something around 151, 152 is a better bet as you progress, IMO. That would be the other thing with going 155 – you would have had to adjust to a 10cm difference which would have been a huge adjustment. As it is you’re adding 7cm which will take a little to get used to.
The Proto Type Two is something you can actually ride a little smaller (as the effective edge compared to overall length is quite long compared to a lot of boards). E.g the 148 PT2 has a 114cm effective edge compared with the 113.4cm effective edge on the Twin Sister 152. So the longer 152 Twin Sister actually has a smaller effective edge than the 148 PT2. So for the PT2, I would agree that the 148 would be the better size for you, for that particular board. The PT2 is what I would consider an all-mountain-freestyle board and is something you would typically, IMO, size down for a little bit. The Twin Sister is what I would consider an all-mountain board.
The PT2 is an asym board – it has an asymmetrical side cut. So the side cut on the heel edge is deeper than it is on the toe edge. I personally like asym boards, but not everyone does. There are a few going around these days. It’s not a deal breaker, IMO, but I do enjoy it for certain boards.
If you like the sound of the PT2, then it is a great board – but so is the Twin Sister. They are slightly different in what they’re good at too. If you want to check out my Top 5 All-Mountain-Freestyle snowboards at the link below, you can see how the Twin Sister compares (IMO) to the PT2. The main things are that the Twin Sister is better for riding powder and the Proto Type Two is better for jumps and riding switch. The PT2 also has the advantage of that asym side cut, which helps it to be a better carver, IMO.
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thank you so much for your detailed response !
I chose the Twin Sister in the end.
I went to pick it up and showed it to a friend of mine who is an avid snowboarder. I found out he rides a Proto and he was in love with it. It made me question my decision a bit, but I think I will have fun with mine too. My friend is definitely an advanced rider and he was describing the Proto as a quiver killer.
I’m riding on the East Coast and hoping to put a lot of time in next season. I want to be able to do tree rides and enjoy powder. Jumps probably more on the trails than in the park. I’m not there yet anyways, but I can’t wait to try this new board.
Your advice was very appreciated. I will have to look for bindings, if you have any recommendations, I’m all ears.
Thanks again!
Maude
Hi Maude
You’re very welcome, and thanks for the follow up.
In terms of bindings, I would check out the following links:
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freeride Bindings
Anything from there would work with the Twin Sister, IMO. Just note that if you go for Burton bindings to get the “Re:flex” model as the “EST” model will only mount to Burton boards.
Hope this gives you some options
Hi Nate,
I live in Australia and ride a lot of varying snow conditions here. I love riding powder and trees mostly but also love just riding the whole mountain.
I’ve been riding about 20 odd years and consider myself an intermediate rider as I don’t do a lot of jumps or tricks. I like jumping of small natural jumps though. I don’t mind steepish terrain but find that I am not confident in my board with holding the edge when the snow is a bit firmer.
I currently ride a 2008 143cm Burton Feelgood V-Rocker. I am about 154cm tall and weigh roughly 130-132 pounds. My shoe size is about 22.5 US5 UK3.
I have never been happy with the Feelgood V-Rocker as I had always risen Camber in the past. I’ve just been too lazy and stuck with it but I feel that it holds me back.
What would you suggest in terms or board type and size?
Many thanks.
Janelle
Hi Janelle
Thanks for your message.
The Feelgood V Rocker isn’t known to be very good in hard/icy conditions, so I’m not too surprised there.
So, something like the Jones Dream Catcher or Jones Mountain Twin would be a step up in harder conditions (IMO) or the Rossi Frenemy would be better again. Another option is the YES Hel Yes, which is very good in hard/icy conditions. These would also work well in powder. Going for something hybrid camber (camber between/under the feet and rocker towards tip and tail) would be a good way to go for you, IMO. You get the benefits of camber, but a bit more in terms of float in powder compared to a fully cambered board.
Another good option (which is a little different in that it’s camber to to tip and tail and rocker between the feet) would be the Never Summer Aura.
In terms of size, I’d say something around 144 would be a good size for you, give or take. So for the boards mentioned, I would say:
~ Jones Mountain 143
~ Jones Dream Catcher 148 (only because that’s the shortest size they do that board in (though the 2019 model will have shorter sizes). This is also a board that you can ride a little longer, but 148 might be a little too long. I believe they are going to be doing a 145 (but can’t confirm as I don’t have my catalog in front of me at the moment) for the 2019 model, which would be a good size for this board for you
~ Rossignol Frenemy 144
~ YES Hel Yes 146 (this is the shortest size it comes in)
~ Never Summer Aura 143 (one plus of this option for you, is that it’s the narrowest and would suit your foot size the most)
Hope this helps and gives you some options
Thanks so much for getting back to me. Your reply gave me some great options and pretty much confirmed what I thought about the V-Rocker Feelgood. I’m glad it’s just not me.
Thanks again!!
You’re very welcome Janelle.
Let me know what you go with in the end.
By the Jones Mountain, are you meaning the Twin Sister?
I think I might be tossing up between that and the Rossi. The Hell Yes sounds great but I am thinking it may be a bit long for me (although I used to ride a Salomon back in the early 2000’s that was a 146. Not sure I want to go back there or not.)
Oooh tough decisions
Thanks Nate
Hi Janelle
Ooops, yes I meant Twin Sister! I always mix up Mountain Twin and Twin Sister (Mountain Twin being the equivalent men’s board).
Hi Nate,
I bit the bullet today and purchased a 2019 145cm Dream Catcher. My only hope is that I should not have got the 142cm, given my height. I know that weight plays a big part in choosing the correct size as well.
Thanks so much for the advice.
Hi Janelle
Exciting!
The 142 Dream Catcher would be ok for you, but I think the 145 is the best size for you. The Dream Catcher has a relatively small effective edge compared to overall length, so it’s more like riding a 143 for a lot of other boards anyway. E.g. Aura 143 has 110cm effective edge and Frenemy 144 has 108 effective edge. And the effective edge is what you are going to feel whilst riding – it’s only in powder that the extra length will count (which is where extra length is good anyway).
If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to get it on snow
Will let you know for sure!
I’m now thinking of bindings. I currently have an old pair of Burton Escapades.
What would you suggest?
Thanks again
Hi Janelle
If your escapades are still in good condition, then they should work fine with those boards mentioned. But if you are looking to replace them, then something from one of the following lists would be a good bet, IMO, for those boards.
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
>>Top Women’s Freeride Bindings
Hope this gives you some options
Hi Nate,
You’re a champ. I’ll take a look. Thanks for all of your articles and reviews. They’re great.
Thanks
You’re very welcome Janelle!
Thanks Nate! I am 5 2, 120lbs. I was looking at getting around a 148-149 but not sure if that would be too big.
Hi Sam
I would say 146 would be the best size for the Yes Hel Yes – and the 148 for the Dream Catcher – the 148 is the shortest dream catcher, but also it’s a board you can go a little longer for. The effective edge on the 148 Dream Catcher is very similar to that on the 146 Hel Yes. Both have a longer effective edge than your current B Nice 145.
You could also go shorter (not for those boards as those are the shortest size, but in general) for your specs if you wanted, but if you felt like you wanted a bit more length, those sizes would work well in my opinion. And if you’re used to the 145 B Nice, I think those sizes would work well.
Note that the Dream Catcher is going to come in smaller sizes for the 2019 model when that comes out.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your reviews they have been really helpful in my research! I have been riding my 145 Gnu B-nice for 8 seasons now and am looking to upgrade. I live in Colorado and typically see all sorts of conditions (minus extreme ice since leaving the east coast). I would say I am advanced level, and typically do all-mountain and freeride with a lot of trees. Id like to get more into backcountry but don’t currently do a lot. I have been looking at the Jones Dream Catcher and Yes Hel Yes boards- but am not sure what will be best! Do you have any other recommendations for other boards or think either of these boards would be better?
Thanks!
Sam
Hi Sam
Thanks for your message.
For your style/ability, I think you would appreciate either of these boards over your current board. The main difference, I would say, is that The Hel Yes is a little more aggressive than the Dream Catcher – and also the Hel Yes is probably a little better in hard/icy conditions but the Dream Catcher still not bad and since you don’t see those conditions often, not a big thing.
The other thing to think about is the size. I would be happy to give my opinion on size (would just need your height & weight as I already have an idea of your ability and style).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! I’m an upper intermediate snowboarder trying to find my new perfect board. I’ve read a lot of reviews and now choosing between Jones Twin sister and Gnu Ladies choice. I know that these boards are both for all-mountain riding but have some differences. I ride on and off piste, like to have some fresh snow in trees and natural terrain. My current snowboard is really soft so I can’t go with speed, it’s sad.
I like that Gnu Ladies choice is asymmetric and playful and in some reviews it’s said to be nice in deep snow to. As about Twin sister, characteristics of that snowboard are really good and it’s freeride friendly but I’m afraid that it could be tough and stiff.
So I need advice what to choose and in what sizes. I’m 5.2”, 99 lbs, foot 6.5.
Would like to add that I’m not a park rider at all but like to do ollies and nollies, want to learn 180 🙂
Also it will be cool if you tell your opinion about cambers of these boards.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Cheers,
Tanya
Hi Tanya
Thanks for your message.
The Twin Sister is what I would call an all-mountain board and is something that is leaning more towards freeride. The Ladies Choice is all-mountain-freestyle – and is leaning more towards freestyle riding – but freestyle riding over the whole mountain. It’s something you can definitely take off the groomers and ride in powder, but not as good (IMO) at that side of things as the Twin Sister. But overall, I think all-mountain-freestyle sounds like a good match for you.
In terms of flex, the Twin Sister is a little stiffer than the Ladies Choice but not by a huge amount (in my experience with the men’s equivalent models – the GNU Rider’s Choice and Jones Mountain Twin). I would say Ladies Choice squarely a 5/10 in terms of flex – right in the middle and the Twin Sister more like 6/10 or maybe pushing 6.5/10.
In terms of size, I would say the 142.5 for the GNU Ladies Choice. For the Twin Sister, the 139. You could go a little smaller on the Ladies Choice too, except that the 142.5 is the smallest size it comes in. The 139 Twin Sister is a little wider than the 142.5 Ladies Choice, so you go a little shorter but also a little wider with that option.
In terms of camber, the Twin Sister is Hybrid Camber (camber between and under the feet in the Twin Sister’s case and then rocker towards tip and tail) and, like most hybrid cambers, has a very stable feel. Not to the point of feeling too locked-in, but not loose/surfy feeling at all. The Ladies Choice isn’t super loose by any means, but it’s what I would say is on the looser side of stable, certainly slightly looser feeling that the Twin Sister. So, overall, being slightly softer and slightly looser, it has a more playful feel overall. It’s Hybrid Rocker (so rocker between the feet and camber to tip and tail).
Hope this gives you more info to go off for your decision.
Hi Nate
Thanks a lot for your answer, its very helpful! And finaly I’ve chosen GNU LC 🙂
I’d like to ask about the size one more time. A seller in my local shop suggested to buy 145.5. Do you think it will be big and difficult to manage? Not easy to decide for me. Currently i ride 143 mellow-camber board.
I also would be very grateful for suggestions about any bindings which are suitable for LC.
Thank you again.
Hope to hear from you soon
Hi Tanya
100% the 142.5, in my opinion. For your specs, this board and how you like to ride, the 145.5 would be too long for you, IMO. Very surprised the local shop suggested 145.5 – is it the only size they have left in stock?
Actually yes, it was their last size in stock 🙁
Hi Tanya
If I was you I would try to find the 142.5 online or wait until next season’s stock. The only reason I can’t think that they would suggest the 145.5 to you would be that they were trying to sell their only size left. But, IMO, it’s worth waiting or doing some extra research to get the 142.5, or look at getting a different board.
Did I answer your question about bindings? Don’t think I did. Something from the following list would do a great job, IMO.
>>Top Women’s All-Mountain Bindings
Or the Burton Scribe or Union Milan as well.
NOTE: If you go with anything Burton just make sure to get the “Re:Flex” version as opposed to the “EST” version as the “EST” version will only fit on Burton boards, whereas the Re:Flex will fit on all boards.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate! Thank you so much for your help 🙂
You’re very welcome Tanya. Thanks for using the website. If you think of it at the time, I would be interested to hear what you end up going for.
Hi Nate! I’ve been boarding for 15 years and I’d never stop, but this year I’ve turned 61 and I start to tire more easily. I ride a Feelgood Camber that is almost as old as me, so it’s time to buy a new board. I like carving (forward and switch) and powder, I never ride the park but I can perform some easy flat tricks. In North Italy, where I live, the temperatures are pretty warm in winter due to the climate change, so we usually have hard snow in the morning and wet snow in the afternoon, with powder from time to time. I’ve found an Italian on-line shop that offers last year’s Salomon Wonder at a very good price: do you think it would be a good choice for me? It’s flexier than the Feelgood, which should help me in my old age, but according to the specs it still has a good hedge hold and carves very well.
I appreciate any suggestions.
Thanks!!
Hi Elena
Thanks for your message.
I think the Salomon Wonder would be a good option. It has a more forgiving camber profile than the Feelgood, and will likely feel softer/more forgiving overall – and should be fine riding switch too. Whilst not what I’d call a ultra powder board, it should be better than the Feelgood camber in powder.
Size is another important consideration. If you’re not sure about sizing, I would be happy to give my opinion (would just need height, weight and boot size) – but if you know your size and it’s a good deal, I think this board would be suitable for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate, thank you, you’ve been very helpful!
I’d read many reviews and technical specs and I was almost sure that the Salomon Wonder could be a good choice for me, but now I’ve no more doubts and I can get a good deal too. The Feelgod was and is soooo expensive! I know that the Wonder is far from the best in powder, but I don’t care because we never get deep powder, it’s too warm in winter.
As regards sizing, when I bought the Feelgood the general opinion (at least in Italy) was that if you weren’t a beginner your board should be almost your size, so it’s a 149. I’m 152, my weight is 46 Kg an my boot size (USA) is 6. Now everybody is telling me that my board is too long, I think it’s right. The choice (boards on sale) is between 139 and 143, I’d go for the 139, what do you think?
Thanks again! Elena
Hi Elena
I agree that 149 is too long. Weight is the most important factor for length sizing these days (as well as height, ability and style of riding).
Ordinarily I would say 139 for sure, for you. But since you’re used to a 149, it’s a big difference going 10cm shorter. So the 143cm is an option. It’s a tough choice. I would say the biggest pros and cons for each size:
~ The 139 would be more agile at slower speeds, better for freestyle stuff, better in the trees and the most appropriate for your height/weight
~ The 143 would be more stable at speed, have better float in powder and would be an easier transition from the 149
I think the 139 is the best bet, but it will take some getting used to. If you want an easier transition, then the 143 is an option.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
you’ve put everything into focus! I’ve got a good skiing background, my first board was a hard one and I liked speed very much, but now I’m going slower, I’m afraid of hurting myself badly if I fall. That’s why last winter I started to do new things, like riding switch, flat tricks, etc. I’m happy and I want to get on with it, so my choice is the 139, definitively. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Many thanks again!!
Elena
You’re very welcome Elena.
Look forward to hearing how you go with your new board!
Hi Nate,
Firstly, I wanted to thank you so much for your recommendation of the Rossignol Frenemy 147 around this time last year. Since my purchase, I have ridden about 22 days over 2 seasons (more than I expected), and the board helped me enormously to gain so much more confidence in my riding, and increased my skills from about Intermediate Level 4 to about Advanced Level 6 (only small jumps, and super basic freestyle). I have loved the board, and bonus that I got so many compliments on how good/unique it looked too! 🙂
I have run into a tiny issue though. While I love it, and it still rides well, I feel it was a tiny bit unstable/chatter at higher speeds for me on my recent Colorado trip. I’m wondering whether this is partly a combination of being beyond the weight range of the board (I’m more 138lbs than the recommended upper limit of 130lbs), and moving up slightly in skill level.
Ever since I read your reviews, I’ve been eyeing the Twin Sister 149 (or Dream Catcher 148/151) for the past few months. A few questions to help me decide:
1) Does it seem strange/wasteful to be buying a new board already? I know women who hold on to their board for years, without any issues or need to upgrade.
2) If looking at the Twin Sister, would there much difference in 2017 vs 2018 models, in terms of ride and/or quality of the board?
3) Would these boards still be good for icy/hard pack conditions, like the Frenemy? My main riding will still be in Australia, with probably another week or two in Japan or Colorado (hoping for powder).
4) Could I keep my Salomon Mirage bindings, or would I need to also upgrade this?
Looking forward to hearing from you Nate!
Many thanks,
Melissa
Hi Melissa
Thanks for your message.
Glad to hear that the Frenemy has helped you to progress to this point.
1. I wouldn’t say it’s wasteful. You’re looking to upgrade after progressing. It’s something a lot of riders do – it’s just that it seems you’ve progressed quickly. Some people buy above their level to begin with – so they don’t need to upgrade but it slows progression usually. Also, some people either don’t advance that much or don’t feel the need to upgrade (even though in some cases they might enjoy an upgrade). There are plenty of reasons why you wouldn’t necessarily – but there’s nothing wrong with upgrading to better align your skills. A lot of riders have more than one board anyway (one for the park, one for powders, one for the trees, one as an all-rounder etc.) You could potentially use your Frenemy in the park, if you get into that more – or you could sell it and some else will get a good deal and would be good for them for where they are at.
2. 2017 & 2018 Twin Sister’s are fairly similar. There were a couple of tweaks. One of which was making the 2018 a little stiffer torsionally between the feet but it was a subtle thing (based on the men’s boards that they did the same thing to).
3. The Twin Sister and Dream Catcher (Jones boards in general) are good in hard conditions – but not as good as the Frenemy (IMO) – I would say Frenemy 5/5, Twin Sister & Dream Catcher 4/5. It would be a step up in powder though, IMO.
4. You could still ride your Mirage with the Twin Sister or Dream Catcher, IMO. If you’re happy with them, I wouldn’t change them.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thanks for the above. You have me some things to think about. I’ve noticed you’ve mentioned about effective edge when talking about sizing in the responses on this page. The Frenemy 147 and the Twin Sister 149 (assuming this is the best size for US7 feet, 65kg weight and 165cm height) both have an effective edge of 111 centimeters, as well as a rocker-camber-rocker profile. Will it ride too similarly to each other?
Given the similar characteristics, I can’t tell whether the Twin Sister will be more like a board that can replace my Frenemy as the do-it-all snowboard, or different enough to have as a second powder or more freeride board (and Frenemy as the hard-pack/park board)?
Hi Melissa
They are relatively similar boards. And will ride similarly. But the Twin Sister will handle speed better. Be more stable at speed. These are what I would consider the main differences.
1. The Twin Sister is a stiffer board
2. The Twin Sister has longer camber sections – the camber on the twin sister goes to just outside the inserts before transitioning to rocker. So there is more of a camber feel, which is good for holding carves, and for stability at speed (in addition to the extra stiffness). It also offers a bit more in terms of pop. On the Frenemy, the camber extends to around halfway through the inserts – so the rocker starts a little earlier. This offers a bit more of a playful feel.
3. The sidecut radius is a little different. The Frenemy favoring a tighter sidecut and the Twin Sister a slightly shallower side cut (which tends to favor smoother longer turns, compared with a tighter radius, which favors shorter/sharper turns). The difference is subtle because the sidecuts aren’t drastically different (6.7 on the 147 Rossi vs 7.2 on the 149 Twin Sister) but will still affect the feel.
So they certainly won’t feel the same, but are still similar boards. Probably not the ideal in terms of a two board quiver. That said, you could certainly still use the Frenemy as your park/hard pack board. But ideally you might want a more park specific board for that. I would certainly say that the Twin Sister is more freeride oriented overall than the Frenemy, and the Frenemy more freestyle oriented, but they’re both all-mountain “do-it-all” boards, IMO – just that the Twin Sister is slightly more on the freeride end of the scale and the Frenemy slightly more on the Freestyle end of the scale, if that makes sense.
If you do go with the Twin Sister, the 149 would be the best size for you, IMO.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Hi Nate, your advice helped enormously! I managed to find a fairly good price for 2018 Jones Twin Sister not long ago, but didn’t pull it out until after a demo day where I got to ride 4 different boards, and the JTS in both 146 and 149. And undoubtedly, the JTS 149 really hits the sweet spot.
I loved it from my first run! It felt really stable and more controlled at speed, was nice in powder, can handle icy conditions and was even decent in both slush and crud (that was all during 7 days of riding). I saw some comments about the Yes Hel Yes and someone I know recently bought it, so I’d love to see how it compares. But I’m never been so pleased with such an expensive purchase! Worth every cent…
Thanks for taking the time to help me in my decision. Cheers Nate! I always recommend your site to all my friends who are considering buying gear.
Hi Melissa
Thanks for the update – awesome that you’re loving the Twin Sister! And thanks for the recommendations.
Hi Nate!!! I broke my bindings this year and my 2008 Never Summer needs to be replaced so I have to buy gear at end of season in hopes of getting good sale prices. I’ve been boarding since 2008 and bought the Never Summer Infinity and Burton Stiletto bindings. I have never boarded on anything else. I am an intermediate that should probably be an expert but get nervous when I’m at high speeds and feel a bit of loss of control or can’t curve turns fast enough. I have an old board for sure…I am torn between the NS Proto, Aura and Infinity as they all have some appeal to me. Of note, we ski 1-2 times per season for a week each and are usually in Big Sky Montana or somewhere else that typically has great conditions. I need it to be all mountain but can help me get to that expert level so I can drop into some bowls finally!! And any binding suggestions that don’t break the bank would help too!! I’m 5’2″ and 125 with a size 6 shoe so I”m on the small side of things! I appreciated the help!
Hi Maggie
Thanks for your message.
The Infinity and Aura are going to be better in powder than the Proto, and since it sounds like you will see a bit of powder, I would go with one of those two for that reason. The Proto would otherwise be suitable, but it’s biggest weakness is powder, IMO.
The Aura is going to be the pick for carving and stability at speed over the Infinity, but you would also need to get used to the extra stiffness. It will be less agile at slower speeds, but more responsive when riding fast. It will be a more aggressive ride. It’s something that I would say is for high-end intermediate and up. The Infinity on the other hand more like high-end beginner to advanced. Considerably softer flexing and more playful because of that and because of it’s camber profile and shape.
I’m not sure what size you’re riding now, but I would say 142 for the Infinity for your specs, and the 143 for the Aura.
In terms of bindings I would say something like the Union Legacy or Flux GX for the Aura would be a good match and are relatively reasonably priced, but not sure how cheap you need. The Flux GS and Union Trilogy are a little cheaper and would be a good match for the Infinity (and would work on the Aura too, but not quite as well, IMO). The Union Milan is a little cheaper again and would work on the Infinity but probably not stiff flexing enough for the Aura. Burton Scribe would also be a good match for the Infinity.
Hope this helps with your decisions
Yes this helps a ton!! You re-iterated a lot that the person at our ski shop said but I’m always weary of their advice. He actually recommended the same bindings so that makes it easy for me to decide. Ok so definitely powder happens in Montana (yeah!) so I’m going to think about Aura vs Infinity. I love my current Infinity – but many of the reviews out there just love the Aura for sure. I come from a skiing background so I have a tenancy to want to carve hard turns so I’m leaning towards giving the Aura a try but going to sleep on it. When you say get used to the extra stiffness… would this contribute to more leg fatigue? Or would it be less fatigue since the board does more of the work?
Hi Maggie
In terms of leg fatigue it can be a little of both in some ways. Certainly in situations where your riding fast, steep and in powder it can reduce fatigue, but will certainly increase fatigue when riding slower. More effort to maneuver at slower speeds. I would say overall a little more in terms of leg fatigue when you go stiffer, but there are of course a lot of advantages too – and your legs tend to adjust and get used to it.
Hi, Nate! I’m a 5’5″ and 160 lb intermediate rider who currently rides a 2012 K2 Fling 146. I am solidly intermediate in skills, wanting to get to the next level with my biggest issue being keeping my turns locked in. Toe side carve is fine but heel side is tough for me to feel my edge locked in. I don’t do anything in the parks; I am on the groomers in all types of conditions and occasionally shoot into the woods. I love my Fling in its flex, twin shape and ease of turning but I am looking for something that can help with feeling that locked in edge to carve my turns. Any suggestions on a board?
Hi Jamie
Thanks for your message.
A couple of things that I think will help, with your next board:
1. Something with camber in it will definitely help you to lock that edge in. The 2012 Fling was flat from what I can see – so getting something with camber will definitely help, IMO
2. I think you can go a little longer in length – on balance, given what you’re currently riding, your specs and your ability, then something around 149, 150 would be a good bet, IMO. But if you can also let me know your boot size, then we can balance your length with the width as well.
3. I think a setback stance would be a good idea. I like to carve more on a setback stance than a centered stance. It doesn’t make a huge difference, but a noticeable difference in my experience – and since you aren’t riding park, then you don’t need to be centered (unless you ride a lot of switch on the groomers, but even then a little bit of a setback stance is still fine). You’ll also get better float in powder.
So, I think the Dream Catcher (151) and Twin Sister (149) would be good options. The Feelgood Flying V (149) too, except that it won’t have as good an edge-hold in hard/icy conditions, IMO. If you don’t see those conditions very often, then that’s also a great option. The Feelgood, being full camber, might be too much in terms of going from flat to full camber, but if you think you would get along with full camber, then that becomes an option too (and a little better edge-hold in hard/icy than the Flying V version, but still prob not as good as the Twin Sister and Dream Catcher).
Never Summer Infinity might be a little too soft, since the Fling sounds like it’s relatively stiff – and going too much softer probably isn’t a good idea, especially since you’re not going to be riding freestyle. Too soft and it can be tough to lock in your carves.
Another option is Salomon Wonder.
If you wanted to keep to a centered twin, but still add in some camber and a more all-mountain orientation compared to the Fling, then you could also check out:
>>My Top 5 Women’s All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
And if you were to do that, then perhaps something with an asym side-cut (Never Summer Proto Type Two) would be a good idea, to help with the heel edge. Another nice Asym option is the GNU Ladies Choice.
Hope this helps
Hi, Nate! Thanks so much! Your feedback helps me a lot. Hard pack and icy conditions are routinely in my mix so I need a board that will handle that. My boot size is a 7. And you are correct that the 2012 K2 Fling is a flat base. If any of that impacts your recommendations, I would love to hear what you think. Otherwise, I am going to look into the boards you suggested and get ready to do some shopping! Thanks, again!
Hi Jamie
Everything I mentioned except for the Feelgood, should be fine for hard/icy conditions. If there’s anything you’re looking at that I didn’t mention, let me know what it is and I can give you my opinion as to it’s suitability for those conditions.
For your boot size, the width should be fine on the options I mentioned, if you stick to around a 149, 150 in terms of length. But I wouldn’t go too much longer than that as most boards in that length are on the wider side for your boot size (IMHO) so if you go too long and couple that with too wide, then overall I think that would be too big – so stick to 149, 150 and then anything around 240mm at the waist, should be a good balance. The Dream Catcher in the 151 is fine as it’s the kind of board that rides a little shorter than it’s size suggests.
Hope this helps and happy shopping!
Hi Nate,
I’m a 5”6 & 120 lb beginner. I am looking at a used never summer infinity 147 cm board with flow minx bindings. I live in WA/OR. Is this board too advanced for me?
Thanks!
Audrey
Hi Audrey
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Infinity is an ok choice as a beginners board – not ideal. I would say high-end beginner/intermediate level, but doable for a beginner. However, the size isn’t ideal, IMO. I would say something around 147cm would be a good size for you as a more advanced rider – but as a beginner it’s a good idea to go a little shorter – 3-5cm shorter as a rule of thumb.
So, whilst it’s not far off, the combination of the length and not quite being a beginner’s board makes it not ideal, IMO. I think if it was the 145 or 142, then I’d say you’d get away with it, but might be just a step too far, IMO. I think the Minx would be fine as beginner bindings.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate!
Thanks for posting this. I am a seasoned boarder of about 20 years. I’m currently on an arbor 150, but it’s a little slow for me. I’m looking to size up and am trying to decide between the Rossi Myth 154 and the Rossi Fenemy 153. The conditions I’m in vary from choppy, to icy, with some power and the occasional trek through the trees. I’ve read the Myth is geared more toward a short term intermediate board and can be a little slow, but was wondering your thoughts.
I’m not sure I would call myself advanced as I left my park days behind, but I’m not a beginner by any means. I occasionally ride switch so I’m a little hesitant with the directionality of the Frenemy.
The camber sounds more aggressive on the Frenemy, which seems better for speed, but with the Myth being a tinge longer I wasn’t sure if that would make up for it at all. I also really like the idea of the magnatraction for icy conditions on the Frenemy, but the Myth reviews says it does pretty good there too.
I appreciate any input you may have.
Thanks!
Hi Betty
Thanks for your message.
If you’re looking for speed, then I wouldn’t go with the Myth if I was you. It’s more of a beginner board and more of a freestyle oriented board. Also, in terms of stability at speed, it’s likely to get a bit squirelly (lots of rocker and quite soft flexing) – even in the longer length. Length definitely helps with speed and stability at speed – but it can only do so much – and if you go too long you start to loose agility as well.
The Frenemy would be your better choice out of those two. It’s stiffer flexing, has more camber and has a sintered base (extruded base on the Myth).
IMO the Frenemy would be much better at speed.
Also, in terms of switch, I’ve probably given it a bit of a harsh rating on this post – it’s not going to be too difficult to ride switch, especially if you’re adept at it. The switch riding ability of the Myth wouldn’t be enough, IMO, to make it more appealing than the Frenemy, if speed is a big thing for you.
Which Arbor board are you on currently? You don’t necessarily need to go longer to get better speed – it helps, but if you have a board that’s more suitable for speed, you’ll notice a big difference, even without sizing up. If you’re Arbor is something not suited to speed, that could be part of the problem, not just size. Just wouldn’t want you to go too long, if you didn’t have to.
Hope this helps
Jones Twin Sister is not a durable board. I am a cautious intermediate to advanced rider…cautious because of a neck injury. After riding my new board for less than 8 hours without an incident, I found that it had a small topsheet crack. Jones customer service was horrific. It took them 5 weeks to respond, and their response didn’t provide any helpful advice. Just thought I’d share this experience as I’ve noticed others commenting about topsheet cracks on their Jones boards.
I totally agree with you on NeverSummer boards….the BEST ever.
Also, the Niche Sonnet could use some more attention. A fun and durable board that I think many boarders would love.
Hi Christine
Thanks for your input and sharing your experience.
Durability is something that I don’t comment on as I typically don’t demo gear for long enough to judge.
I would consider the Sonnet an all-mountain-freestyle board but yeah Niche definitely make some nice decks.