The Best Surfy Freeride Snowboards: My Top 10

Comments

1. Tim says

   June 27, 2021 at 4:26 am

   I love this board. Got the 157 uninc and I wish I’d bought one earlier when I was travelling.
   Perfect size for me. Found it was just all over great for everything. Great at slow speeds, but still can carve great at speed. Nose a lil flappy at speeds but nothing major. Plus a great platform to butter.
   Holds a great edge and is great when traversing.
   Once again best board for me of 2021. I’ve ridden the capita kazu 57(great board too) burton hometown 56w and yes basic rdm uninc 56w. All great boards I will keep
   But hybrid was the most Stoke.

   Reply

   • Nate says

     June 28, 2021 at 10:20 am

     Hi Tim

     Thanks for your input – and awesome that you’re stoked on the Hybrid. Love that board. Might try and get back on it again next winter!

     Reply

2. Henry Style says

   March 16, 2021 at 10:09 am

   Hi Nate! Thank you for providing useful information and for spreading the stoke! I’m pretty close to purchase and I’m choosing between the Gnu Hyperkyarve and the Gnu Mullair/Essential service. I’m an good–>advanced rider and I like a board that can go fast and carves on groomers, sends it on rollers and floats in powder and can handle a drop to pow landing. I don’t spend too much time in the park but I do like to hit the occasional park jump and play around with butters when the angle of the slopes doesn’t allow for speed 😉

   Most important is high speed carving and float in powder.

   Thanks in advance!
   /M

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 16, 2021 at 11:18 am

     Hi Henry

     Thanks for your message.

     The Hyperkyarve is a little easier to butter and a little easier to ride at slower speeds, but all round for what you’re describing, particularly that your most important thing is high speed carving and powder, I would go Mullair/Essential Service. In terms of powder, they’re fairly similar. If I had to say, I’d say the Hyperkyarve a little better in powder. But the Mullair/ES very noticeably a better carver and better at high speed, IMO. So based on what you’re describing I’d say Mullair/ES for sure.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

3. Matthew Ulbin says

   March 14, 2021 at 9:38 am

   Hey Nate!
   First of all thank you for reviews and taking the time to answer everyone’s questions.
   I currently ride a 157CM Libtech TRS.I am 5 10′ 175lbs with 11.5 boots. I was looking for a directional board that can handle east coast ice,carve well,turn fast in and out of trees and handle powder on our annual out west trip.

   I have been dead set on the Yes Pick Your Line .I feel like it checks all of the boxes above. But now I’ve come across your review of the Yes Hybrid. A softer shorter Wide board sounds fun . Compared to the PYL which one is a better carver and what board has better edge hold for ice?What board is better in pow?
   If you have time could you do a quick comparison of the two boards.
   I’m thinking the 157cm for the Hybrid and a 161W for the PYL
   THANKS

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 15, 2021 at 11:19 am

     Hi Matthew

     Thanks for your message.

     Firstly, I think size-wise, you’re spot on with 157 for the Hybrid and 160W for the PYL, for you specs.

     In terms of carving, the PYL has it over the Hybrid, IMO. Hybrid still a good carver though, but PYL a little better, IMO.

     For powder, it’s a close call, but I’d say Hybrid is the better powder board.

     I would say no difference for hard/icy conditions. Both very good in that area, IMO.

     In terms of quick turns in trees, I’d say probably the PYL a little better in that respect, but when you take into account sizing 157 on the Hybrid and 160W on the PYL, there’s not a lot in it, I would say. The 157 Hybrid is still wider than the 160W PYL (at waist, at inserts and at contact points), but sizing down to 157 really helps to gain back any maneuverability lost by the extra width.

     Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

     Reply

     • Matthew Ulbin says

       March 15, 2021 at 1:16 pm

       Thanks, I think I’m leaning towards the PYL. I agree it may handle better in the steep runs weaving in and out of mogels.I’m thinking it will turn faster then the Hybrid. I’m starting to see some the reviews on the Hybrid that say it’s slow to turn . Now this may be a result of a people with small boots and a wide board. 🤷‍♂️

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 16, 2021 at 10:42 am

         Hi Matthew

         Yeah I think that’s partly small boots on a wide board for sure. And I don’t have the biggest feet (US10s) but I didn’t find it overly slow to turn personally, but the PYL is a quicker turner still.

         Reply

4. Matt says

   March 1, 2021 at 1:42 pm

   Hi Nate…Thanks for providing all the info on your site. Very helpful, as I am in the market to upgrade my board. Been riding for about five years on what I believe to be a beginner LTD Raider board. It has served me well, but am ready to see if a new board can help me improve and take my skills to another level. Based on your article, I would consider myself an intermediate rider. I spend most of my time on groomers, though do enjoy trying to keep up with my friends in the powder and through the trees when we get fresh snow. My primary goal is to improve linking turns at higher speed and learning how to carve. I have no interest in the park or riding switch. This is why I am looking at your list of “Surfy Freeride Snowboards.”

   The following boards seem they might be a good fit. Curious if you agree and which one or two you recommend the most. I chose these three because I figure it’s best that I purchase a board that is “stable” and “versatile,” yet is “directional” at the same time. BTW…I live in CA, so many days are spent riding the “Sierra cement.”

   1. YES Hybrid: This board if very highly rated and checks off most of the categories. One question I have is that it’s described as a “short wide.” Does this matter if I am used to riding a standard board?

   2. Lib Tech Dynamo: I like the idea that this board feels like “an all-mountain board, yet is directional.” Maybe the best of both worlds and a good transition for me?

   3. Endeavor Scout: I like the price and seems that this board might work, too. But wonder if this board is good for daily use? Could be wrong but seems more geared for powder and just OK for groomers.

   Thanks in advance for any feedback you might offer on these boards. And, by all means, let me know if you think there are any other boards better suited for me. Size of board and any suggestions on bindings would also be helpful. Should probably mention that I am 52, about 5″11,” 190 lbs, and 10 1/2 – 11 shoe size.

   Matt

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 2, 2021 at 11:55 am

     Hi Matt

     Thanks for your message.

     YES Hybrid: I think this could definitely work, in the right size. It is a short/wide, so you’d need to down size in terms of length – and will take some getting used to if you’re not used to short/wide, but could certainly work for what you’re describing. Size-wise, I would go 157 probably for your specs. The 153 would be doable too, if you really wanted to optimize for trees and faster edge-to-edge transitions (at the sacrifice of stability at speed and float in powder – though the 153 would still be good in powder with your specs, IMO).

     Dynamo: This would definitely work too. I’d say go 159 for this one. With 10.5s, you should be all good with the 159 regular width. If you end up 11s, it would be pushing it being too narrow though. With 11s, you might need to go 159W.

     Scout: It is geared towards powder for sure, but surprised me how good it felt on groomers, particularly carving, so I think this could definitely work too. Size-wise though, is the biggest question mark. The 160 or 156? The 160 would be the better length and with 11s would be well wide enough. It’s just a question of whether it’s too big overall when taking into account length and width. The 156 is around 268mm at the back insert, which should be OK, but if you’re riding with quite a straight back binding angle and in 11s, then it might be pushing it. With 10.5s, you’d likely be fine on the 156. Then the question becomes whether the 156 is marginally too small overall.

     You could also check out all-mountain options like these, if you wanted or something like the Jones Frontier, but the 3 you mentioned would certainly work for what you’re describing, IMO.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Matt says

       March 2, 2021 at 11:24 pm

       Hi Nate…Thanks for your quick response. Information is extremely helpful. I had a few quick follow-up questions, if you don’t mind. Would really appreciate your feedback.

       So, think I will rule out the YES Hybrid and Endeavor Scout. Sound like great boards, but maybe not best suited for me as a “daily user.” I am still really interested in the Lib Tech Dynamo. But wonder if the hybrid rocker profile might cause any issues, if I am not used to riding on that type of board. I see that it is “camber dominant,” so maybe it doesn’t matter all that much?

       Second, you really piqued my interest with the Jones Frontier. I read your review and seems like this could be the right board for me. Given my specs, would you recommend the 162? Even thought the board “rides a bit longer,” I feel that the 164W or 165 might be too big.

       Last, I read a few comments on your site regarding the Capita Navigator and Mercury boards. Both seem like they could be a fit, though I’d probably lean towards the Navigator given my interest in exploring freeriding. Be interested in hearing your thoughts on these two boards and how they compare with the Dynamo and Frontier. Suggestion on size appreciated, too.

       Specs again are:
       – 5′ 11″
       – 190 lbs
       – 10 1/2 – 11 shoe

       Thanks, Nate!

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 3, 2021 at 4:19 pm

         Hi Matt

         You don’t notice the rocker that much on the Dynamo. It’s mostly camber with just very subtle rocker. It’s there and you can feel it but it still has a stable feel to it overall. Doesn’t feel loose or anything, which hybrid rocker can feel sometimes. It doesn’t feel locked-in like full camber can sometimes, but I would say it’s right in the middle with a stable feel. If you were still concerned, the Frontier and Navigator are really good options, if you think you’d prefer Hybrid Camber instead.

         Yeah, I would go 162 if you went Frontier. That’s going a little longer. Not need to go as long as 165 for your specs, IMO. And 162 should be wide enough, even if you end up in 11 boots, IMO.

         Navigator would definitely fit what you’re describing. And from what you’re describing, I would also go Navigator over Mercury for you. Size-wise, I would be leaning towards the 161 – and that would be wide enough for 11s too. The 158 is a possibility for sure though, if you wanted to keep things shorter. Wide enough for 10.5s for sure, but borderline for 11s in the 158.

         Reply

         • Matt says

           March 3, 2021 at 5:36 pm

           Awesome, thanks Nate! Think I’m going to go with the Frontier. See a 162 and 161W online. Much difference? Promise, last question 🙂

         • Nate says

           March 4, 2021 at 11:22 am

           Hi Matt

           I would go 162 for you. It’s a wider board than it looks just based on waist width (the 161 is around 270mm at the back insert and 273mm at the front insert) and I think it’s just right for 11s and 10.5s. The 162W getting a little wide even for 11s. Size-wise, the 162 is your best bet, IMO.

5. Daniel says

   February 22, 2021 at 6:37 pm

   Nate,

   Awesome site. Lots of great information but could use some advice. I have been riding on and off for about 20 years with about 15 of that being on my current set up. I find that my riding style has evolved to include more groomers but am not opposed to going back country and riding in powder, I stay away from the park. I want to start riding more frequently but need a new board to get me going in that direction, boots and bindings will be a need too, but I want to start with the board and go from there. My specs are:

   5’-10”
   190 lbs
   Size 10 boot

   What would you recommend for someone trying to get back on the mountain?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 23, 2021 at 1:38 pm

     Hi Daniel

     Thanks for your message.

     I think something from this list will work, if you’re not looking to ride switch at all, want something not too stiff, and given you like to ride groomer and off-groomer/backcountry. Given that it sounds like you’ll be riding a fair bit on groomers, there are some here that are more powder specialized that I probably wouldn’t go for, like the Mind Expander and Ultralight Powder Displacement Snowcraft.

     The rest I think will be suitable. They’re all a little different. This list is the most eclectic of everything I have. I think one thing to decide is it you think you’d like a surfier, looser kind of ride or a more precise one. Once you decide that, then you could look at the “feel” listed under each board, to get an idea of what might suit you better. And also pay attention to the score breakdowns to see what you feel will work well for your riding style.

     Size-wise, I’d say around 158-160, but it also depends on the board. I would be happy to give my sizing opinion on individual boards, if you are able to narrow down your list to 2 or 3.

     You could also check out the following:

     >>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards

     If you wanted something with a less directional feel.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Daniel says

       March 20, 2021 at 3:35 pm

       Nate,

       I appreciate your input. My current board is a Palmer Honeycircle 161 and I ride with Burton 3D step in bindings boots and it has worked well for me but definitely time for an upgrade.

       Looking for something with a more stable/locked in feel that is good with carving and turning, I have grown out of my park/freestyle phase so jumping is not important. I don’t ride switch much, except when I need to due to the terrain. I want something that will be able to handle all conditions between powdery/soft conditions to icy. Based on your reviews below are the boards that appear to meet what I am looking for.

       Yes Hybrid 161
       Lib Tech EJack 159
       Yes Pick Your Line 159

       I am curious what your thoughts are and if you feel I am looking at the right type of board and what type of bindings and boots you think I should look at too. I am not committed to sticking to with step ins. Appreciate any additional input you have.

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 22, 2021 at 2:34 pm

         Hi Daniel

         I think those options are really good for what you’re describing. For the Hybrid though, I would look at sizing to the 157. It’s a really wide board and with 10s, the 161 would be too big overall, IMO. I think the 157 would work well though. The Hybrid is the softer flexing of the 3 (I felt it around 6/10 flex). The Ejack Knife around 7/10 flex and the PYL 7.5/10 bordering on 7/10. So would depend on how stiff you wanted to go.

         For the PYL you could also go 162. It’s the kind of board you can ride a little longer. The 159 works too, and if you wanted to have a more mellow feeling to the flex, then erring shorter would give you that.

         The Ejack Knife I’d probably go 159. But 162 isn’t out of range either.

         In terms of boots and bindings I would try to match the board for flex or err a little stiffer. So if you ended up with the Hybrid, then something 6/10 or 7/10 flex. If the other 2, then something 7/10 to 8/10 would be good, but you could even go stiffer if you really wanted that stiffer boot/binding setup.

         Some options:

         >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

         >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

         >>Top 5 Freeride Bindings

         Reply

6. Cole says

   February 4, 2021 at 10:03 am

   Hey Nate, found this website and it has been really helpful in trying to find a new setup. I am recently getting back into riding after taking a break for about 8 years and looking to update my ride. I’m currently riding a 156 Fourm Delvin Walsh Twin head that’s about 20 years old lol. My current stats are 5’11, 175, with size 11.5-12 boots. I’d say that I’m a good intermediate/low end expert rider and most of my riding these days is mostly cruising with my family and a occasional trip through the park when not with them to hit a few jumps, but nothing crazy. Almost 40 and not trying to hurt myself like I did when I was young. Most of my riding is in CA if that helps. On a side note, most likely will be going to the Burton Step on’s. Basically I’m open to all suggestions and just trying to find a board that will suit me well for the next 5-10 years or so. Also curious to know if you think I should go to a wider board or not giving my boot size? Some of the boards I’ve had my eye on so far are:

   Arbor Coda Rocker 157MW
   Arbor Westmark Camber 157MW
   Arbor Element Camber 156
   Burton Deep thinker 157W
   Burton Custom Camber 158W or Flying V 158W
   Lib Tech Cold Brew 157

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 5, 2021 at 1:34 pm

     Hi Cole

     Thanks for your message.

     Firstly, in terms of sizing, I would go wide with 11.5-12s. Length-wise, I think you’re good around that 156-159 range, so length-wise, I think everything there looks good.

     For the Arbor options, I think going camber is probably a good idea for you a. because you’re at a level where you’ll appreciate the camber and won’t have any issues riding it and b. if you’re board is 20 years old, then you’re definitely used to riding camber

     The Westmark Camber is more freestyle oriented, so not as suitable to your style, IMO. But the 157W would be a good size. 156 Element Camber going to be too narrow, IMO. I think the Element Camber would certainly work for you though, but just for sizing. The Coda Camber or Shiloh Camber would work well, but you’d have to go to 160MW to get something wide enough, which is getting on the longer side for you, IMO. It’s not undoable, but getting to the bigger end of your range. May not be as good for cruising with the family or for the jumps.

     Burton Deep Thinker 157W a good size. This is a stiffer more aggressive board and not as suitable for jumps, IMO. But doable if you’re not spending that much time with jumps. The biggest question I’d have with this one is if it’s a bit too much board – i.e. not as easy to ride slow when riding with the family.

     Burton Custom Camber 158W would be a good choice, IMO. The Flying V I think you would likely find too loose. But if you like the idea of a loose feeling board, then it’s certainly an option (which would also bring the Coda Rocker 157MW back into play).

     Lib Tech Cold Brew – I haven’t ridden it, but based on other similar Lib Tech boards, I’d say it’s on the looser side. Not as much as something like the Custom Flying V, but there’s more rocker than camber in the feel with the C2 camber. If you’re good with something a little surfier/looser, then this would work, but I would go to the 158W.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

7. Jeff says

   December 16, 2020 at 4:16 pm

   Hey Nate,
   You helped me pick a board a couple years ago after getting back on the horse after an injury. Thank YOU! Now I’m looking for your opinion on an upgrade or an addition.

   I’m 5’8” 155-160lbs with size 9s. I went with a 2017 Ride Wildlife in 155. I’m now looking for something more powder specific that can still charge but will still be nimble enough in the trees. I’ve got a couple used boards on the radar in a 2017 Burton Landlord, and 2018 Skeleton Key both in in 154. I also am considering the Flight Attendant 156 and Jones Hovercraft 156. Curious to hear your thoughts. Thanks.

   Reply

   • Nate says

     December 17, 2020 at 11:26 am

     Hi Jeff

     Good to hear from you again.

     Firstly, I think the Hovercraft in the 156 is probably on the too big side. It’s quite a wide board and something you want to size down for unless you have a longer foot/boot size. For your specs, with the combination of length and width, I think the 156 would be too long.

     The other boards would work and sizing would work too, IMO. I haven’t ridden the Landlord but what I know of it/specs etc, I think it would likely be the most nimble of the 3 Burton options there – largely because it’s narrower and shorter than the Flight Attendant and sounds like it’s a surfier, slightly softer flexing feel. So I think that would likely be the most nimble option for you. The Skeleton Key 154 I think is a good size. It’s a little wider, but sizing down a little to the 154 it would work. It’s also a softer more easy going ride than the Flight Attendant. The Flight Attendant isn’t ultra stiff by any means – but it’s more like 7/10, compared to the Skeleton Key’s 5.5/10. Size wise, the FA is narrower than the SK, so going 156 is a good bet for your specs, IMO, assuming a relatively advanced level.

     I think between the 3, it depends if you want something more carvy, a little more aggressive and better stability at speed (Flight Attendant) or a slightly more relaxed, slightlier surfier feel (SK & Landlord). All 3 will be more precise/locked-in feeling than the Wildlife, IMO. But the SK & Landlord a little less so than the Flight Attendant.

     Hope this helps with your decision

     Reply

     • Jeff says

       December 20, 2020 at 7:34 pm

       Thanks for getting back to me Nate! Do you have any other recommendations for a more powder oriented board that will have good float and be fun charging in the powder as well as being nimble in the trees? Do any boards blend those well? What would you ride for that?

       Reply

       • Nate says

         December 22, 2020 at 1:35 pm

         Hi Jeff

         Yeah definitely some boards blend that well. First boards that come to mind:

         – YES PYL
         – Capita Kazu
         – Capita Navigator
         – GNU Mullair
         – Never Summer Westbound

         These boards will let you charge, but I also found to be nimble at slower speeds, and good float in powder.

         Reply

8. Peter says

   December 1, 2020 at 4:54 am

   Hi Nat,
   I really appreciate what you do – please don’t stop & I’m keeping my fingers crossed!

   I want to share one of my concerns…
   I’m willing to buy a board which bombs the slope, going well on uneven terrain, but also has a good flow on pow. After reading this post I’m close to choose YES Hybrid, but still thinking of Mervin boards and it’s Magne Traction technology…
   And here is the concern: basing on your experience – does Magne Traction really makes that big difference when carving and riding on icy slopes/uneven terrain?
   Thanks!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     December 1, 2020 at 11:14 am

     Hi Peter

     Thanks for your message.

     I do find that magnetraction does improve edge-hold in hard/icy conditions. It’s certainly not the only factor – there are other things – like a board with more camber tends to have better edgehold in hard/icy conditions over a board with more rocker (all else being equal) – and of course how sharp the edges of the board are – and the edge bevel also play a bit part. But in my experience magnetraction makes a difference. However, that said, YES boards with Mid-Bite and Underbite tend to work well in hard/icy conditions too.

     If I had to say, all else being equal on a board, then maybe magnetraction slightly more edgehold in icy conditions, but there’s not a lot in it, IMO – and I wouldn’t use it as deal breaker, unless you really need a tie breaker between two boards. Like, if you were like, I like these two boards equally, and these two boards are the perfect size/dimensions for me, then you could use it as a final tie breaker, but otherwise wouldn’t put too much on it. Certainly if you need good edge-hold in ice, then are some boards I wouldn’t look at, but between YES and Mervin it’s not a big difference, IMO.

     Also, keep in mind that not all Mervin boards are the same in terms of edge-hold in icy conditions. For example, I found the Hybrid better in icy conditions than the GNU Hyperkyarve. I think part of that is just that the Hybrid has more camber.

     Anyway, hope this helps with your decision

     Reply

9. Petter Alatalo says

   November 28, 2020 at 8:52 am

   hi Nate:)

   current board Burton Flightattendant 162w
   height 185cm
   weight 117kg

   problem. I feel it gives away way to easily on hard and icy snow

   im an old experienced rider , snowboard used to be my life and I have done a fair bit of competitions and so on. even tho im now a fat and old dad I do really know how to ride.

   before the attendant I used to ride a Burton supermodel 162 and I really liked it. however that was not only twenty years ago I am now also almost 40 kg heavier. so I haven’t been riding much in a long time. But im trying to get back in the saddle again, mostly riding with my son. I like to ride fast and make long and tight carves. maybe hit some powder if I find it. hit side edges and so on.. Now looking for a new board

   but the attendant gives away to easily, I don’t know if the problem is the construction of the board with its taperd tail or its just the board thats to short for my old and fat bodyweight.

   all the sizcharts I’ve seen online sugests boards 166-170. maybe im living in denial but do I really need that long board?
   I’ve been thinking about the Burton custom x 166 w
   or the hometown hero 165 w.

   or jones flagship 165w . but since I have Burton channel bindings I rather not switch them out im pretty stuck with Burton.

   or do you think I need an even longer board?

   best regards from the very north of Sweden.
   Petter

   Reply

   • Nate says

     November 29, 2020 at 2:40 pm

     Hi Petter

     Thanks for your message.

     I think going longer is going to be a good idea. I don’t think you need to go as long as 170 though. But I would size up to around 164-166. If you think that Taper is playing a role, then I would be leaning towards the Custom X 166W – as the Hometown Hero and Flagship both have more taper than the Flight Attendant.

     If you wanted to keep a bit of taper, there are some other options that grip better in hard/icy snow. I think Custom X would work for what you’re describing, but if you wanted some other options in a more tapered shape but with better hard/icy conditions grip, I would be happy to give some examples.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

10. Jason says

    November 2, 2020 at 10:21 am

    Hey Nate!
    I can’t explain how crucial this site has been in helping me find the right board! Really appreciate all the work you’ve done here.

    I have narrowed down my options to Burton Flight Attendant or Skeleton key (open to other Burton recs! )

    Context:
    – Typically ride west coast (will be living in Tahoe, trips to Jackson / Big Sky)
    – I am coming from a Burton Custom Twin flying V from 2017.
    – Absolutely love the pop and appreciate some of the forgiveness but the board is super chattery at high speeds. I rarely ride switch anymore aside from the occasional 180.
    – I think its time to move toward something more directional. I want something for all mountain.

    Riding style:
    – I love side hits/popping off rollers or anything haha
    – Not much park but will probably hit jumps mainly straight airs with a grab and the occasional spin.
    – A lot of fast riding, I would say I do more riding straight with skidded turns than I do big carves.
    – I will definitely do some hiking this year.

    H / W:
    – I am 6ft
    – but weigh like ~140
    – So I fear that the FA at 156 will be too much board for me and the 152 will be too short.

    Both seem like great boards but I feel stuck in the middle. The skeleton key is seems to be too soft while the FA seems too stiff. I fear I’ll loose agility with the FA in tighter trees / moguls. But I fear that the skeleton key will be too playful and not stable enough (and potentially not as poppy).

    I am planning on keeping the old custom twin (but still for the sake of traveling think I would like to find a solid all around board). Sorry for the long question, I cant thank you enough!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 3, 2020 at 10:12 am

      Hi Jason

      Thanks for your message.

      Definitely understand your concerns and how you want to get it right.

      The Skeleton Key is pretty stable for it’s flex – and it’s not super soft. So I wouldn’t be too worried about it’s stability at speed. And the FA isn’t super stiff either. Although if you were to go 156, it would feel stiffer at your weight than what I would feel it, so if you are concerned about it being too stiff, I would be a little wary of going 156. The Skeleton Key in a 154 is also likely to feel a little stiffer than 5.5, IMO. Not by much, but maybe more like a 6/10 for you. So, from that respect, I would be leaning towards 154 Skeleton Key over 156 FA. The 152 FA I think would be doable – on the shorter end for you. I would predict that would feel more like a 7/10 for you in that size. But I would be concerned about width for that size. If you could let me know your boot size, that would really help for sizing.

      The Hometown Hero is another option from Burton that might suit what you’re describing too – and has a flex in between the FA and Skeleton Key (by my feel).

      But yeah if you can let me know your boot size, that would be great.

      Reply

      • Jason says

        November 4, 2020 at 10:34 am

        Thank you for the fast reply!

        My current boot size is 11.5 and I have the Malavita Bindings.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 5, 2020 at 11:54 am

          Hi Jason

          With 11.5s, the 152 and 156 FA are going to be too narrow for you, IMO. If you’re coming from a narrow board (not sure what size your Custom Twin is), and you’re confident on something that narrow, then you might be OK, but otherwise, they are definitely on the narrow side, IMO. The 159W FA is going to be too big, so there’s not really a suitable size for the FA, IMO.

          The Skeleton Key is a wider board, so the 154 Skeleton Key would give you a bit more leeway there. But it’s still borderline for 11.5s. Again, if you’re coming from something relatively narrow and are comfortable with it, then it might be doable – more doable than the FA, IMO. For reference the 154 Skeleton Key will be roughly 266mm at the inserts versus the FA 156 at around 258mm at the inserts.

          For the Hometown Hero, the 156W would be a good width, IMO. The length works too. On the bigger side, but being slightly softer than the FA, might be OK and might be good to have a longer board in the quiver. What size Custom Twin do you have?

          Reply

11. Colton says

    October 28, 2020 at 8:40 pm

    Hey Nate, I have snowboarded the past few seasons on some big old board I bought for $50 in Canada… it’s done me well up in BC and other places I’ve been, but now I just moved to Flagstaff, AZ and will be riding like 2-5 days a week… I’m not quite sure what to get but when you say “surfy”, it sounds up my alley… maybe you could provide some guidance/clarity? I am not a speed demon. Ideally, I’d live next to the beach and surf every day, but Snowboarding is the next best thing (maybe even better after my first true season?)… I like to just cruise, lay down some big carves, have fun and focus on style… these boards look good, but I don’t want to get on something that’s too technical and I find myself catching an edge and eating crap often.

    Any guidance you have would be much appreciated.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 29, 2020 at 12:39 pm

      Hi Colton

      Thanks for your message.

      If you’re looking to ride predominantly in one direction (i.e. not riding switch a lot) and aren’t really going to be doing a lot of freestyle stuff (park etc), and you want something that’s a little more mellow than a stiff freeride board, then this is the right place to be, IMO. Like I mentioned at the top of the list – the term “surfy” is perhaps not fully accurate in this case – it’s more like “easy going, softer” freeride boards – but that doesn’t really have a ring to it! I’m thinking of changing it to “mellow” freeride boards, as someone has suggested.

      But since you are looking for something surfy, there are some on this list that certainly do have a nice surfy feel to them. And typically anything surfy feeling isn’t going to be catchy. For each board I’ve listed a “feel” for them, to note if they’re more surfy/loose, or more locked-in/precise. Check those out to get an idea of what might suit you. The Hyperkyarve was the board that first sprung to mind as I read through your message. It’s very easy going and has that surfy feel to it. The Jones Mind Expander is another good surfy option. As is the Capita Ultralight Powder Displacement Snowcraft, but it’s more powder specialized and really a quiver board, that you’d usually get in addition to another board.

      Size is important too. I would be happy to give you my opinion on size if you wanted it. I would just need your height, weight and boot size. I already have how you like to ride and your rough ability level (which also come into sizing.

      Reply

12. Chip says

    October 3, 2020 at 2:38 pm

    Nice list. Since some of the boards aren’t that surfy you could call it “mellow freeride”… Something that may fit in this category, which I am interested in, is the Lib Tech BRD (solid). Have you had a chance to ride it? Seems like it would be fun in moderate powder and have decent performance without being too demanding. Any thoughts on this board? Thanks!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 4, 2020 at 2:20 pm

      Hi Chip

      Thanks for the suggestion. I might change it to “mellow”. Will let it simmer and see.

      I haven’t ridden the BRD unfortunately, but I agree, based on specs and my experience with other similar Lib Tech boards, that it would likely be a good fit for this category. Hard to say how it would feel in real life, but with Lib Tech rating it 6 or 7 in flex, depending on size, and (IMO anyway) since they’re boards are often a little softer flexing, by me feel, than their ratings, it’s likely to be around 6/10 flex, I’d say – so yeah. It does have the C3 camber, but then so does the Dynamo, which is mellow, despite the C3 camber. Will have to try to get on it this season.

      Reply