Hello and welcome to my list of the best all mountain snowboards for women. This has now been updated for the 2018-19 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
Price: View more info and current prices here
Flex: Medium-soft (4/10)
Rating: 81.1/100
The Infinity is the meaning of an 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.
You can take this thing anywhere and do anything on it. So if you're the kind of rider that likes to do a bit of everything and wants to have just one board to do it all on, then the Infinity is a great choice, especially if you want something on the playful side.
Check out more on the Infinity in the Video
Score Breakdown for the Infinity
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
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 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 3.0 | 6/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 81.1/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #5
Board: Rossignol Frenemy
Price: View more info and current prices here
Flex: Medium (5/10)
Rating: 82.3/100
* HARD/ICY SNOW OPTION
Even though Rossi rates this board a 6/10 for flex (with 10 being the stiffest and 1 being the softest) I would say it’s more of a 5 out of 10. It’s quite a forgiving medium.
And what does the Frenemy do best?
Consistency across all categories.
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
Score Breakdown for the Frenemy
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
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 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 82.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #4
Board: Burton Feelgood Flying V
Price: View more info and current prices here
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Rating: 82.9/100
The Feelgood Flying V is a very versatile board that can do everything anywhere. It's on the playful side, but pretty middle ground between playful and aggressive.
Not to be mistaken with the Feelgood (Camber version) – despite having the same graphic, these 2 boards are quite different beasts - the Feelgood being considerably more aggressive.
I have also included the score breakdown for the camber version below, in case that sounds more like your thing. It has different strengths and weaknesses.
Check out more about the Feelgood Flying V in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Feelgood Flying V
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
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 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 2.5 | 5/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 82.9/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Feelgood
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Powder | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
Carving | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Speed | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Uneven Terrain | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Switch | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jumps | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Jibbing | 2.5 | 5/10 |
Pipe | 3.5 | 7/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 82.3/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #3
Board: Arbor Swoon Rocker
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Smart rating score: 83.5/100
The Swoon Rocker has a centered stance - something that I wouldn't ordinarily put in my all-mountain list. But it has a directional twin shape and is on the stiffer side of medium. It's essentially the women's version of the men's Coda Rocker, which feels distinctly all-mountain.
There are 2 versions of the Swoon - Rocker and Camber. Both boards scored the same in the end but only coincidentally. They both 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 Rocker in the video below
Score Breakdown for the Swoon Rocker
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Powder | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Carving | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Speed | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Uneven Terrain | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Switch | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Jumps | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 3.5 | 7/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.5/100 |
Score Breakdown for the Swoon Camber
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Powder | 2.5 | 7.5/15 |
Carving | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Speed | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Uneven Terrain | 3.0 | 9/15 |
Switch | 4.0 | 8/10 |
Jumps | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jibbing | 2.5 | 5/10 |
Pipe | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 83.5/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #2
Board: Jones Twin Sister
Price: View more info and current prices here
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Rating: 89.0/100
And coming in at #1 is 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, speeding down steeps, shredding through the trees or venturing into powder.
Video
The video below mentions that the Twin Sister is the most playful in Jones’ line. Whilst I do actually agree with that, Jones’ don’t tend to make incredibly playful boards overall – so it’s whilst it’s the most playful Jones board, it’s not the most playful on this list. I would consider it the perfect middle-ground between playful and aggressive.
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)
5. Burton Feelgood Flying V (just on the playful side of middle)
6. Rossignol Frenemy (quite playful)
7. Arbor Swoon Rocker (quite playful)
8. Never Summer Infinity (most playful)
Score Breakdown for the Twin Sister
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
Powder | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Carving | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Speed | 4.0 | 12/15 |
Uneven Terrain | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
Switch | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jumps | 3.5 | 7/10 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.0/100 |
ALL-MOUNTAIN BOARD #1
Board: Yes Hel YES
Price: View More Info and Current Prices Here
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Smart rating score: 90.2/100
* 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.
Whilst it leans towards the more freeride end of the all-mountain spectrum (and last year I had it classified as freeride), it's still something that's great with jumps, you can butter on and can even take on boxes/rails.
It's 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
FACTOR | rating (OUT OF 5) | contribution to final score |
|---|---|---|
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 |
Jibbing | 3.0 | 6/10 |
Pipe | 4.0 | 8/10 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 90.2/100 |
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.
Note: The Jones Dream Catcher, which was #2 in last year's list, has been reclassified as freeride for 2019. Both the Jones Dream Catcher and YES Hel Yes could be classified as all-mountain and freeride and perform well when rated in both categories. However, after further analysis I decided that the Hel Yes (which was freeride last year) is closer to all-mountain than the Dream Catcher - so I've swapped them around for this season.
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.
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
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! 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 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,
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’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! 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,
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
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,
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!
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’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
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 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
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 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
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
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,
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!
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 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,
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, 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,
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,
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,
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).
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
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
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
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
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! 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,
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 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,
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
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,
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
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
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,
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
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 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)
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,
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