The Top All Mountain Snowboards: My Top 10

Comments

1. dd says

   April 29, 2021 at 1:51 pm

   Hi Nate – back to bug you again! Seriously, thank you for all you do, it’s really informative. So I’m finally going to pull the trigger on a twin style board to complement my directional board (Jones Explorer) and I’ve narrowed my choices to either the Rossi One LF or the Jones MT. I can get either at decent sale for 2020 models. Not sure how much either changed for this seasons 2021 models but as info, my decision point will be based off of prior year model. My stats are similar to yours and I’m thinking 159/One LF or 157 MT. The two seem pretty close, although I believe the above ratings are updated for 2021 so I’m not sure if they were similarly close last year? My guess is either would work great so not a bad decision between them but I’m hoping you can enlighten me on two points – which is quicker edge to edge in tight space, and which is more damp? Thank you!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 30, 2021 at 10:43 am

     Hi dd

     Thanks for your message.

     The 2021 Rossi One LF is basically the same as the 2020 model, but the 2021 Mountain Twin changed quite a bit from the 2020 model. See my Mountain Twin review for details of the changes. 2020 MT was a little better in terms of stability at speed, but not as quick edge to edge. The 2021 model became better in uneven terrain and more maneuverable at slower speeds. The 2021 MT I would say is just as quick edge to edge as the Rossi One or maybe even slightly quicker edge to edge, but the 2020 model MT isn’t as quick edge to edge as 2020 Rossi One, IMO. In terms of dampness between 2020 Rossi One and MT, I would say it’s pretty similar. The 2021 MT is slightly less damp.

     One other thing to consider is that the MT is very easy to get into a centered stance. The Rossi One LF, because it has a setback of 12.5mm isn’t something you can really go fully centered on. Just in case you were looking for something where you could center up the stance.

     Size-wise, I would go 159 for One LF and 157 for MT, so if you’re similar specs, then I think those sizes are good bets.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • dd says

       April 30, 2021 at 12:02 pm

       Excellent Nate, thank you very much!

       Reply

       • Nate says

         May 1, 2021 at 2:28 pm

         You’re very welcome dd

         Reply

2. Eran Zylinski says

   April 9, 2021 at 8:24 pm

   Hello Nate,

   Thank you for what you do here, your info on the site is incredible, and your responses to your readers puts you over the top – big props to you!!

   I am just another rider choosing what stick to get next, and would appreciate your input.

   I’ve been riding for 22 years, dunno if I can call myself expert, but I have only ever ridden full camber profile, and I absolutely love the feel of it, the aggressiveness of it, am OK with how unforgiving it is, and would not be afraid of trying a newer, modern example (like a Slash ATV, for example). My current ride is a 2008/9 Palmer Burn, but I would like to move to an all mtn type, just undecided how aggressive I’d like to go. I love riding fast and hard charging, but nowadays most of my time riding is with my young, learning kids, so I don’t want something that is overly laborious for slow, casual, groomer riding. I want to be stable when I do get to open it up though (the Palmer Burn is WAY too sketchy at 35+mph!!). I also ride park – straight jumps small to medium primarily – no rails, ride switch as much as I can just to keep my skills up, love to hit the side hits (don’t want something that takes too much effort to be stable when a side hit catches my eye at the last second), and navigating the off-groomer trees is my favorite. Oh, and the more pop the better.

   I am 5’8″ ~200lbs (trying to get back down to 180’ish), boot size 9.5, just got a new set of Burton Step On X bindings, planning to get the ION boots for next season. I wanted stiff binding + boot. Current set up has way too much flex for me, riding old Burton P2 bindings with Ruler boots.

   I’d give you the list of boards that I’m looking at, but I would rather see your suggestions!!! 🙂

   Thanks in advance!!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 11, 2021 at 3:21 pm

     Hi Eran

     Thanks for your message.

     Taking all that into account, looking at traditional camber, or predominantly camber options. Nothing here is going to be amazing for powder, but otherwise would work well for what you’re describing.

     – Arbor Shiloh/Coda/Wasteland Camber – fairly similar boards, but depending on how stiff you wanted to go. I’d say Shiloh 6/10 flex, Coda closer to 7, and Wasteland a little stiffer again, probably around 7.5

     – Arbor Brain Iguchi Camber – similar flex to the Coda, but a little more directional

     – Burton Custom Camber 158 – around a 6.5/10 flex, traditional camber

     – Burton Freethinker 157 – a little more on the freestyle side for the spectrum – relatively stiff – around 7/10

     – GNU Billy Goat 159 – stiffer around 7.5/10 by my feel – technically a Hybrid Rocker board but predominantly camber. But you do feel a little rocker between the feet, which may or may not be something you liked the feel of. There would be risk there, that you didn’t like that feel if you’ve always ridden full camber.

     – Jones Aviator 2.0 (coming in 2022) – the previous Aviator’s weren’t full camber, but still mostly camber – I haven’t ridden the new edition yet, so not 100% sure how it rides.

     – Nitro Team (camber) – very similar to the Burton Custom Camber

     – Ride Burnout – more on the freestyle side of the spectrum, but stiffer – around 7/10 flex, IMO

     – Salomon Ultimate Ride – not full camber, but pretty close – the new (2021 model and on) are more freeride oriented, with the 2020 and older models more freestyle oriented

     – Slash ATV 158 – this is easier to maneuver at slower speeds than you would expect and easier pop than you would expect for the flex – I would say around 7.5/10 flex-wise. Not like super agile at slow speeds, like a softer board would be, but not bad at all. And not as easy to extract the pop as you’d typically get with a softer board, but also pretty easy to access for a board of it’s flex

     Or you could go a little softer and look at something like the YES Ghost, Niche Crux, Burton Paramount, GNU RC C3 – and I’m sure there are others I’m not thinking of, but I thought I’d put a limit of at least 6/10 flex, based on what you were describing.

     Hope this gives you some options to look into. Curious to know what the options you were looking at were too?

     Reply

     • Eran says

       April 11, 2021 at 8:41 pm

       Thank you for the response, Nate!!

       I was considering some that you mentioned, and just discovered the Arbor Shiloh today. I agree, that one sparked my interest! I also looked at some of the stiffer freestyle/freeride options like you mention, but am a little put off by the idea of riding switch on them, being that most have the directional shape and/or taper.

       I’ve seen some out there, like the Billy Goat, that are hybrid rocker and claim to have strong edge hold, etc., but I’m just not game to consider them for my only board. Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to try them out, but until one could convince me that it suits my riding style, I can’t commit to going that route.

       At the top of my list were a few from your all mountain list – Yes Standard, Capita Mercury, and Jones MT. Then from your Aggr All Mtn list I had the ATV, Custom X, Ultra Mountain Twin, Capita Supernova, and Nitro Team.

       A few I added were the new Globe Traditionalist, Deep Thinker, and Kazu Kokubo Pro, with the understanding that those last two options have the directional design.

       However, since posting the question to you, I have done more research and am leaning quite heavily toward the Yes Standard. I’ve convinced myself that perhaps a little less flex, and a little less aggressiveness could still be fun for me, assuming that it can hold an edge at speed reasonably well. I am thinking the hybrid camber might lend itself to making the slow, casual runs a bit more carefree in what I could do on it. I also am giving it the edge over the Custom, the Jones MT, the Mercury, the Globe, and the Nitro Team based on the additional versatility it seems this board would have (mainly the additional powder capabilities). Although I gotta say that new Globe sounds very very intriguing to me as well. I still give the edge to the Standard due to the little bit of extra width for stomping landings with a little more stability, and it doesn’t sound to me like I would be giving up a ton of agility given the extra width.

       If I had the freedom to go out and ride like I used to before kids and family, I think I would go for a two-board quiver: the ATV for the aggressive days, and then something like a Deep Thinker, or something even more powder specific for the pow fun. But being that I am planning on a single-board quiver, I guess I need to sacrifice somewhere, and I am feeling that the Standard minimizes the overall sacrifices.

       What do you think, am I on the right track? My next question becomes how would my new, super stiff boot/binding combo match up with the Standard?

       Reply

       • Nate says

         April 12, 2021 at 4:26 pm

         Hi Eran

         Yeah the Standard is definitely versatile and more easy going than the others listed, but it is still nothing super soft/playful, you can still charge on it a little. Won’t hold up to really opening it out like something like the ATV, but it does pretty well at speed and is fun to ride slow too.

         There is some risk of the board getting a bit twitchy with bindings/boots that are too stiff, but it’s hard to say for sure. I’ve only ridden the Standard with Burton Malavita’s and mid-flexing boots. I haven’t tested the Step On X bindings, so I don’t know first hand how stiff they are, but I hear they are very stiff. The Ion, to me, aren’t the stiffest going around – I would say around 7.5/10 flex, bordering on 8/10. So I think you could get away with that setup on the Standard, but probably not ideal and some risk of making the board a little twitchy.

         Reply

         • Eran says

           April 13, 2021 at 1:16 pm

           Hi Nate,

           I am betting that just updating to the Standard (or really any of these boards!) from my current board will render any potential twitchiness acceptable because I am expecting it to be a major improvement. At least at higher speeds. Current board is both too short (154) for me, and has too much flex. I am assuming I’ll go with a 159 Standard. As mentioned before also, I understand I am sacrificing somewhere just due to having a single board to do everything, and I get that the Standard is not designed to be the hardest charging board.

           Now to find the board, I have not seen the 159 available anywhere online.

         • Nate says

           April 14, 2021 at 12:06 pm

           Hi Eran

           Yeah I think 159 would work but 156 would also work – just because it’s a wider board and quite wide for 9.5s. The 159 is even wider, so you would be getting quite a big board overall in the 159 – but that would of course add to it’s stability at speed and float in powder. Going 156 would sacrifice a little in terms of speed and powder for some gain in maneuverability, butterability, ease of pop, ease of spins etc. I think 159 is a more pure length for your height/weight specs, but with that extra width the 156 is also an option for this board, with 9.5s, IMO. For reference, I’m 6’0″, 175lbs, size 10 (sometimes 9.5) boots, and I really like the 156.

3. Mark Hansen says

   April 8, 2021 at 11:56 am

   Hey Nate, thank you for your post!

   I’ve been boarding for the last 5 years on a Burton Royale ’07 board passed down from my dad (I’m not even know what the specs are, but we’re the same size and height now) and am finally in the market to get a new one.

   I’m 6’1, 177lbs, and a size 10.5 boot, and my riding style is advanced all-mountaineer kinda riding. I’ve been looking to get a true twin board between the 157cm – 159cm range that’s a little bit more on the medium flex with a sturdy, playful feel to it that can stand up to the icy packed snow. So I’ve been checking out the Yes Standard 18/19/20/21 boards, but can’t find any that are in stock in those sizes.

   In the event that I can’t get one of the Yes Standard boards, what other boards would you recommend that are similar?

   I know that there’s a full list, but I would love to hear what you would personally suggest. 🙂
   (If this has already been answered, my b, but I appreciate your time and insights!)

   Thanks!!!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     April 10, 2021 at 2:44 pm

     Hi Mark

     Thanks for your message.

     Because of the width of the Standard, I think the 156 would be a really good size for you. You could go 159 if you wanted something more stable at speed and for better float in powder (sacrificing some maneuverability, butterability etc). But I think 156 would work for you, if you could find that size.

     Some other boards that fit your criteria (twin, all-mountain, good in icy conditions, medium flex – and I’ve also ):

     – Jones Mountain Twin 157 (directional twin)
     – Rossi One LF 159 (directional twin)
     – YES Greats 156 (or 159)
     – Salomon Assassin 159

     Id you also wanted to look at Hybrid Rocker options (rocker between the feet and camber towards tip and tail, as opposed to camber between the feet and rocker towards tip and tail as with a Hybrid Rocker – they YES Standard is a Hybrid Camber)

     Hope this helps

     Reply

4. Mike says

   March 26, 2021 at 7:21 pm

   Hi Nate, with so many boards to choose from, I’m wondering if you could recommend me one for my needs. I’m scratching the surface as an intermediate rider, I feel like I’ve got the foundations and carving down well. I’d like to stick to an all-mountain board mostly for resort riding and was looking at the 2021 Nitro Team Camber 155 (5’8″, 165lb) or the YES Typo 155 as the next step up. Do you have any particular boards you’d recommend over that one?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 27, 2021 at 1:55 pm

     Hi Mike

     Thanks for your message.

     Size-wise, I think you’re good at those sizes.

     The Team Camber is a little more advanced than something like the Typo. It’s a little stiffer and it’s full camber. Still intermediate doable, but I’d say more solid intermediate than low intermediate. The Typo is a great option for that low intermediate level looking to progress, IMO. So I’d be leaning towards that, depending on how far through your intermediate progression you consider your self. Some other options:

     >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

     And something like the Mountain Twin, Rossi One LF, Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker, Team Gullwing would also work for lower end intermediate. But yeah, the Typo a really good option. If you’re more solid intermediate, then the Team Camber would be fine.

     Hope this helps with your decision

     Reply

5. Garrett J Belmont says

   March 16, 2021 at 11:53 am

   Hi Nate. I am looking into the 156 Yes Standard, the 156 Custom Flying V, or other. I am 5′-10″, 165 pounds, boot size 9.5. I previously rode a 2009 161 K2 Zeppelin. It was great for years until I lost some weight and the board started to feel too big. So wanting to get a shorter board, and also relive my youth, I got a 2020 154.5 Riders Choice. It’s good. But I haven’t ridden switch, buttered or jumped in a very long time, like 20-30 years ago when I could ride weekly.

   I can’t help but feel I should have gotten board more specific to all mountain riding. After 30 years of riding, I can say I am an intermediate rider. Now, I just like going fast on blue trails with a friend, having lunch, and riding some more…

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 17, 2021 at 11:09 am

     Hi Garrett

     Thanks for your message.

     I think something around 156/157 is a good length for your specs and what you’re describing.

     With the Standard though, it’s a wider board and with 9.5s, I would size down, so more like 153 for that board. That probably sounds really short for your specs, so totally get if you didn’t want to go that short. And it would represent a huge drop in effective edge versus your old Zeppelin.

     Size-wise, I think the Custom Flying V would work, but the only thing I would consider is that it’s quite a loose feeling board, and I’m not sure that’s what you’re after. If you like the idea of a looser feeling deck, then it’s a great option, but just wanted to mention it, given that you’re coming from an all-camber board (prior to your Rider’s Choice). The Rider’s Choice is also on the looser side of things, but the Custom Flying V would be just that little bit looser again. If you liked that aspect of your Rider’s Choice, then I think it should work well.

     If you did want something more stable – with more camber in it, and didn’t want to go as short as the 153 Standard (you could go 156 in the Standard, but just probably going to feel quite wide), you could look at the Burton Custom (camber version), which might be more suitable for you, if you weren’t that interested in/didn’t get the chance very often, to ride in powder. The Nitro Team Camber would also fit that bill.

     If you did want something that would perform well in powder as well, then I would look at the Mountain Twin 157. Or you could even go a little more directional, if you’re not going to be riding switch and look at something like the Jones Frontier, Capita Navigator, GNU Hyperkyarve (if you like the looser feel of your Rider’s Choice), Lib Tech Dynamo or Burton SKeleton Key.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Garrett J Belmont says

       March 17, 2021 at 2:06 pm

       Thank you, Nate! I really appreciate it and all the info on this site.

       Now that you have me I am thinking about the loose feel of the RC, I am not sure it’s for me, at least not all over the mountain. The Mountain Twin 157 seems to be the most versatile, especially if I expect to see some powder.

       Then maybe:
       -Burton Custom Camber 156
       -Nitro Team Camber 157

       And if I really want to favor directional over switch:
       -Jones Frontier 159 (?)
       -Capita Navigator 158
       -Lib Tech Dynamo 156
       -Burton Skeleton Key 158

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 18, 2021 at 11:08 am

         Hi Garrett

         Yeah, I think that’s a good list. And yeah if you did go Frontier, I would go 159. It’s a board you can ride a little longer. All those sizes look about right to me. The only one I would be debating is the Skeleton Key. It’s a wider board, and quite wide for 9.5s, so I would be debating between the 154 and 158. The 158 isn’t quite as wide as the 156 Standard, but it’s close, so I’d probably be leaning 154 in the Skeleton Key. Everything else there looks good size-wise to me.

         Reply

         • Garrett J Belmont says

           March 18, 2021 at 11:26 am

           Thanks again, Nate! I posted another response, though I think I have a plenty of good info to work with here. Now to decide if I buy now for one more ride of the season, or wait for the 2022 boards.

         • Nate says

           March 19, 2021 at 11:45 am

           You’re very welcome Garrett. If you think of it at the time, let me know what you go with. Happy riding!

     • Garrett J Belmont says

       March 18, 2021 at 11:24 am

       After sleeping on it, and reading all the reviews here, I’ve narrowed down my options to something like this:

       -Nitro Team Camber 157
       -Jones MT 157
       -YES Standard 153 (I am not opposed to 153, just a little nervous… )
       -Capita Navigator 158
       -Lib Tech Dynamo 156
       -Jones Frontier 159 (?)

       The idea for being prepared for deep powder is appealing, but realistically I don’t see it that often in Southern California. Maybe on the occasional trip away from the area. In that case, the Nitro is a safe bet. But I don’t want to miss out on what the other boards can offer.

       Reply

6. Bogdan says

   March 9, 2021 at 12:54 pm

   Hi Nate!

   This is my first season.
   You have helped me a lot to choose my first stuff.

   I have spent 15 days on the mountain at all since start of season. I can link s turns on the green, blue and red slopes. I have tried freeride a little. Also I have tried riding in the park.
   I understood that I’m interested in all-mountain riding. I want to learn carving, increase speed and learn freeride. (Powder makes me excited!!)

   My current stuff is K2 Raygun (156) + Union Contact Pro + Salomon Launch boots

   I returned my boots to the shop yesterday by garantee case, so I want to buy new boots and new other stuff.

   My height – 183 cm
   My weight – 73-76 kg
   My foot size – 26 cm

   I plan to choose boots and binding from your tops for all-mountain.

   Chosing snowboard is more complicated: Jones Mountain Twin or YES standard. What size is fit for me?

   Do I have correct idea?
   May be you can give some advices?

   Thanks in advance!!

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 10, 2021 at 12:14 pm

     Hi Bogdan

     Thanks for your message.

     The Mountain Twin (MT) and YES Standard are certainly a step up from the Raygun, but it sounds like you’ve progressed pretty quickly. I would say you’d want to be at least mid-level intermediate to ride the MT and Standard, but if you feel you’re there, then they are certainly doable and a good upgrade from the Raygun, IMO.

     Size-wise, for the MT I would probably go 154 for your specs. 157 would certainly be doable length-wise, but with 26cm feet the 157 might feel too big overall when looking at length and width combined. The 157 Mountain Twin is a good 10mm wider at the inserts versus the Raygun, so it’s significantly wider. The 154 MT is going to be wider than the 156 Raygun as well, but sizing down in length makes it a good overall size for you, IMO. Also note that the 154 MT is a similar effective edge to the 156 Raygun, so you’re not really going much smaller in terms of effective edge.

     The YES Standard is an even wider board, so I would definitely size down for that one. I would say 153. But you would be going down in terms of effective edge on that versus the Raygun. That, and also given how wide it is for 26cm feet, I think the MT 154 would be the better choice, size-wise.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

     • Bogdan says

       March 10, 2021 at 11:00 pm

       Thanks Nate!

       I have made a mistake, my boot size is 26.5 cm.
       Does 157 cm MT fit me now? Or 154 cm MT is better anyway?

       My experienced friend give me an advice to buy salomon sick stick 157. What do you think about this snowboard?

       Reply

       • Nate says

         March 11, 2021 at 2:43 pm

         Hi Bogdan

         I would still look at the 154 with 26.5. Like I said the 157 is doable and that makes it marginally more doable, but I’d still be leaning 154.

         The Sick Stick is a bit of a bigger step up. It’s not like crazy stiff or technical or anything, but it’s a little stiffer, a little more advanced than something like the Mountain Twin. Also note that it’s a much more directional board and geared mostly towards freeride. So, not great for park or riding switch. Size-wise, it’s also a wider board for your boot size, IMO, so I would be leaning 153 if you were to go sick stick. If you wanted to go longer, I would be more inclined to go Mountain Twin 157, than Sick Stick 157, for what you’re describing.

         Reply

7. Vahid Safar says

   March 1, 2021 at 6:39 pm

   Hi Nate I am having a really hard time deciding what size to get. I am 6’0 185lb, shoe size 9.5.
   I was really interested in the Salomon Assassin, but the only one available where I’m from is size 159. Also my current board is a 157 Rossignol Jibsaw Magtek (2013): Is this too small for me, or can I get away with riding a couple more seasons?

   Thank you So much
   Vahid Safar

   Reply

   • Nate says

     March 2, 2021 at 12:46 pm

     Hi Vahid

     Thanks for your message.

     I wouldn’t say the Jibsaw 157 is too small, depending on how you like to ride. I think the Assassin 159 would be a good size for you though, if you did decide to go with the Assassin. The 156 could also work, depending on how you like to ride. i.e. do you like to ride any park? Trees? Prefer bombing or riding more casually? Did you see a lot of powder? Also, how would you describe your ability? Intermediate? Advanced? These things come into sizing as well.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

8. Christian says

   February 18, 2021 at 8:30 pm

   Hey nate, I’ve outgrown my old Burton Jeremy Jones 156 that I’ve had since 06/07. It’s still a great board, but I was about 5’10” 170lbs back then, and now I’m 6’1” and 215 with an 11.5 boot. I like to ride all kinds of terrain and I tend to lean towards high speed and carving around. I’ll pepper in some small jumps here and there, and rarely, but occasionally, hit rails. I do like switching stance for fun as well and just goofing around. Also, I’ve been riding since the late 90s. Any suggestions?

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 19, 2021 at 3:36 pm

     Hi Christian

     Thanks for your message.

     I think because you like to ride switch and goof around and hit the occasional rail, that you’re in the right place with this list. You could go with something more aggressive, to maximize speed/carving, like something from:

     >>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards

     But that would sacrifice the playfulness you might want for other things.

     However, since you probably want something on the verge of being more aggressive, I would lean towards something like the Niche Story, Capita Mercury or even, from that other list, something like the Nitro Team Camber, which is less aggressive than others on that other list. I would say the same about the Burton Custom Camber which is quite similar to the Team.

     If you wanted something a little more playful than those, but still not that playful, then moving more into the YES Standard, Jones Mountain Twin. But I think one of those other 4, for what you’re describing would work well.

     Size-wise I would be looking at around that 163W size give or take. If you feel that’s going to be too big a shock versus your 156, you could go a little smaller than that, but I’d go at very least to 160W.

     Hope this gives you more to go off.

     Reply

9. Craig says

   February 18, 2021 at 1:06 pm

   Hi Nate,

   I am getting back into snowboarding after several years off. I would say that I am an intermediate rider and I am looking for a board to do it all. Based on your site and other reviews I am looking at the following boards:
   – YES Standard
   – Jones Mountain Twin or Ultra
   – Salomon Assassin or Pro
   – Capita Mercury

   I am looking for a board that will be easy to get feet back underneath me, gain the confidence and then grow into (IE not have to make another investment down the road). I used to ride an old Solomon that is directional and really stiff compared to what I have seen with the newer boards. I’ll be riding mainly groomers, pow and some park, so I am looking for a board that can be ridden switch and directionally in the powder. I am not looking to go charging hard but not looking to hold back on greens either. This is why I am leaning towards the Standard or Mountain Twin.

   I am 5’11, 180 lbs with a 12 US show size. Thank you for your thoughts on this in advance.

   Craig

   Reply

   • Nate says

     February 19, 2021 at 2:43 pm

     Hi Craig

     Thanks for your message.

     I think from what you’re describing, I would be leaning Standard or Mountain Twin too. Assassin would work, but you get a bit more for pow, IMO, from the Standard and MT. But Assassin not bad in pow, so definitely doable. The Ultra Mountain Twin, Assassin Pro and Mercury potentially as well – main reason I’m leaning towards the others is that you want something that will still be easy enough to get the confidence going again and those will be more difficult in that respect.

     Size-wise, I would be leaning 159W Mountain Twin and 159 for Standard. If you were to go Assassin, I’d go 158W.

     Hope this helps

     Reply

10. Jonny says

    February 7, 2021 at 2:00 pm

    Hi Nate,

    thank you for all the detailed reviews and incredible amount of information, really helps when trying to figure out which gear to buy!

    About me: 21 years old, 181 cm, 70kg, have been riding for around 9 years or so (mostly Austria) and would consider myself to be relatively advanced, currently riding a 2015 Arbor Whiskey 158 which is fine but it’s time for a new one. I would say I am riding a fair mix of groomers (pretty aggressive/high speed at that) and powder/trees (more mellow at that, but like to get into steeper, faster terrain as well) – on fresh snow days as much of the latter as possible. Also planning to get into touring and more advanced freeriding at some point in the next few years.
    So far I am mostly avoiding the park but figured I probably have to spend some days there in order to get more comfortable hitting bigger features (and translate that into the backcountry) and a little more playful in general (buttering, riding switch, side hits etc.).
    So I probably am looking for a nice all-around board, that works well in powder but also on occasional park laps. From what I’ve read so far (only a couple of hours of research) those are my early favorites:
    – Capita Mercury / BSOD / Outerspace Living (really like the company, philosophy-wise)
    – Bataleon Thunder
    – Yes Standard
    Out of those, what would be your favorite for my use-case or do you have any other recommendations?

    Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 8, 2021 at 11:51 am

      Hi Jonny

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the Standard is probably the best balance, given the you also want to work on buttering, switch etc. If you were just bombing/carving groomers and powder/trees, then I’d probably be leaning BSOD. Mercury would also certainly work for what you’re describing, but I would be leaning Standard, depending on sizing.

      I don’t test Bataleon boards, so I’m unsure about the Thunder.

      Size-wise, if you could also let me know your boot size. It’s an important factor for sizing, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jonny says

        February 12, 2021 at 7:10 am

        Hi Nate,

        thanks for you response and sorry for taking a few days before answering myself.
        My Boot size is US 10. Probably looking for some new ones too, so let me know if you have any recommendations here 🙂 bindings as well, especially since I read that the Slamback on the Standard doesn’t support Minidisc.

        On a side note: Read a few more reviews of the Thunder and it seems to be a little to free ride-centered for me anyway. So it’s between Mercury and Standard.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 12, 2021 at 2:05 pm

          Hi Jonny

          Yeah can’t use the slam back inserts with the mini-disc. Mini-disc will still work fine on the Standard in the regular insert pack, but just wouldn’t be able to take advantage of the slam back holes.

          Size-wise, if you went Standard I would go 153 and if you went Mercury I would go 155, for your specs. Both boards are a little wider than normal, so sizing down a little makes sense and those sizes work well for your weight too.

          For boots, I would be looking at something around the 6/10 to 7/10 range in terms of flex. Some good options in that range:

          >>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots

          Same idea for bindings. Check out:

          >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

          >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

          Some of those will have mini-discs, so just be aware of that.

          Reply

11. Steve G says

    January 27, 2021 at 11:12 am

    Hi Nate. I salute you for all this amazing advice and the time you spend getting back to peoples questions. Top stuff!!
    Please help me make my mid up on a new board. I’m 43, 5’10, 185 pounds (84kg) US 10 boot (UK9.5) ThirtyTwo Binary BOAs. Decent intermediate level.
    Currently I have a 2015/16 NITRO Team Exposure 155 which has been great but time for a refresh (plus not ideal for my weight and a worthy hand me down to my son).
    I want another All Mountain board. Not fussed about the park really (2% of my resort time). I just like riding on and off piste looking for powder wherever I can, looking for little kickers to try and get air (even though I’m probably not!), trying to butter for more than 2 seconds, trying to 180 and not fall over and prove to my 12 year old son I can still hang with the kids!! (Doesn’t really sound like decent intermediate when I read this back). I need something that can also go fairly fast to keep up with the fearless little brats too!!

    I’m in a quandary as to go for a Jones MT, Yes Standard or Never Summer SnowTrooper. They all look great spec wise, good reviews here and decent graphics too.
    Also, I’m a bit confused with the length of board to go for. I read some advice about going shorter, but I wasn’t sure if that was right taking into account boot size and weight? I like going off piste and through trees whenever I can so a short board like my 155 does suit me for this. Should I stick to a similar length?
    I may well go the whole hog and get some new bindings (currently I have NITRO Zero’s). So please feel free to advise on some good pairings for these boards,
    I’m sure the boards I’ve shortlisted are appropriate but happy to be corrected and be recommended something else!
    Thanks very much
    Steve from the UK

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 28, 2021 at 4:41 pm

      Hi Steve

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly in terms of size, you could go longer, if you wanted to, but around 155 isn’t crazy small for you either. I would put you on around a 159 as a standard “all-mountain” length, at a relatively advanced level. So, I think you could ride anything up to that 159 length. But if you like to ride trees a lot, then sizing down can make sense. But not so much so that you sacrifice too much in terms of stability at speed. For the boards you’ve listed there, I would go:

      Mountain Twin: 157
      Standard: 156
      Snowtrooper: tight call between 156 and 159. Probably leaning 159, but if you really wanted to optimize for trees, you could go 156.

      Those boards are certainly all good options for what you’re describing: Some things to consider:

      – The Standard is the most aggressive of those ones, but still not quite as aggressive as the Team, IMO, but fairly close (that’s assuming you mean the Team Camber rather than the Gullwing). The Mountain Twin not far off there, but just a little more playful, but very close on the scale to the Standard. The Snowtrooper is a little softer flexing and less camber in there and overall a more playful feel. For the boards on this list, I would say most playful to most aggressive would be:

      – Yes Typo
      – DWD Wizard Stick
      – Burton Custom Flying V
      – Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
      – Slash Brainstorm
      – Rossignol One
      – Jones Mountain Twin
      – Nitro Team Gullwing
      – YES Standard
      – Capita Mercury
      – Niche Story

      With the Snowtrooper coming in around the Typo. So if you were wanted to go considerably more playful than the Team (again, assuming Team camber, but you can see where the Gullwing sits there), then the Snowtrooper would be an option, but if you wanted to keep that aspect of things more of a subtle change, then the Standard or MT more suitable. Also in terms of flex, I’d say the Standard and MT around 6/10, with the Snowtrooper more of a 4/10. The Team a 6/10 too, but just with a bit more camber than the Standard/MT.

      Standard and MT more stable at speed too. For more details, here are links to the individual reviews.

      >>Jones Mountain Twin

      >>YES Standard Review

      >>NS Snowtrooper Review

      For binding matches, I would look at something 6/10 or 7/10 in terms of flex for the MT and Standard and 4/10 to 6/10 for the Snowtrooper. Some good options:

      >>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings

      >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

      >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Steve G says

        January 29, 2021 at 5:31 am

        Thanks so much for the detailed feedback. I didn’t realise that my Nitro (Camber) was classed as aggressive. I’d like my next board to be a little less stiff, but not super flexible (I don’t want something flapping about under my feet when i pick up a bit of speed). I therefore think I’ll discount the Snow Trooper. And from your reply the MT and Standard are similar to what I have right now, but a little less aggressive, bit more playful and slightly more flex.
        I emailed the guys at the place I’m buying from and they recommended 3 different boards entirely, so now my mind is getting well and truly blown. They suggested a Capita DO which I don’t quite like the look of, Salomon Assassin 156, or a NS Proto Synthesis 157 wide. I like both of these and actually the reviews of the Assassin are really good and perhaps suits me the best. I have to admit I’m still swayed on the Jones I think, because I saw a video of a guy in Canada riding it and it just looks the nuts (visually and riding wise) and the flex on this on the snow is about a 6. One thing I have to be honest about is the majority of my time is spent on groomed pistes, though if there’s fun to be had on the sides – I’m there! Most of my boarding is in Austria, so no major powder like you guys get in the US and a lot of the time the pistes can be pretty hard and icy especially on those first runs of the day! Would this make much more of a difference in your recommendations? Thanks again Nate – I really appreciate the help.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 29, 2021 at 12:43 pm

          Hi Steve

          Thanks for the extra info.

          I wouldn’t go DOA. Mainly because I didn’t find it great in icy conditions, but also because not great in powder. Even if you’re not seeing it that much, you could go for a little more powder performance, IMO. The Synthesis also not great in powder, but a little better in those icy conditions. I wouldn’t go with the wide version though, if it was me (I ride US10s too). The Assassin definitely an option though. A little better in powder than the DOA and Synthesis. Not quite as good as MT or Standard, IMO, but not far off, and if you’re not seeing it that much, then I think it’s doable for powder days. And decent in icy conditions too.

          The best of all these options in icy conditions, IMO, is the Standard, but the MT and Assassin aren’t far behind.

          So yeah, I would be debating between the MT, Standard and Assassin. The Assassin a little softer, IMO, than the MT and Standard, but very subtly. Certainly can’t go wrong with the MT, IMO, if that’s the one that’s speaking to you the most.

          Reply

12. Derek Vail says

    January 23, 2021 at 3:52 pm

    would love your feedback.
    Rented a Huck Knife the other day. Loved it. considering buying .
    I’m 5’10 and 175lbs. What size do you recommend. Every scale I see online seems to suggest 160cm+ but I could have sworn the one I rented was 155. felt great so not sure what to do.

    Also what are your thoughts on the Huck Knife.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 25, 2021 at 1:04 pm

      Hi Derek

      Thanks for your message.

      For your specs, for the Huck Knife I wouldn’t go as long as 160 – in fact for most boards, I wouldn’t go that long for your specs.

      For the Huck Knife I think it’s a weigh up between 155, 155W and 158 or 158W, depending on boot size and some other things. If you can let me know your boot size, I can give my opinion as to whether I think you’ll need to go wide or not.

      Between 155 & 158, it would depend how you predominantly wanted to use it.

      If you ride trees a lot, and do a lot of freestyle stuff, and want something more maneuverable, easier to throw around, easier to butter etc, then 155 is a good bet.

      If you prefer to bomb a bit more and want a bit more stability at speed, and better float in powder (though it’s not a great board for powder in general, going longer would still give it more float), then the 158 is the better choice. If you’re fairly even between everything, then it’s a case of choosing what you want to optimize the most.

      I liked the Huck Knife. Not great for powder, that’s it’s biggest weakness, but really good for jumps and good for just riding around the mountain too. Nice and poppy. Since you rode it and loved it, I think it’s a good choice, unless you really want something that’s good in powder.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

13. Berger says

    January 7, 2021 at 9:46 pm

    Hi Nate!

    I really appreciate all your content and insights. Awesome.

    I think it’s really time to replace my ooold Burton Seven 158 board with something new to see if there is a difference after all the years.

    I weigh 156lbs (71kg) and am 5’9″ (175cm) tall and I live near and ride at Snowbird, Utah. Last year I already replaced my old Flow with a Flow NX2 GT and this should of course also fit on the new board.

    I like to ride groomers and powder depending on conditions (still waiting for a bit more snow). Riding switch here and there and experimenting with the board. Not so much a park rider, rather prefer jumps with soft powder landings. 🙂 Looking for a flexible board for an advanced (but not a pro) rider.

    If you have some boot tips, I will take those, too. I have been using some very old Salomon Dialogue boots in 29cm and I think they are bit too broken in now so that I lose control as I miss stiffness sometimes.

    Thanks! 🙂

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 8, 2021 at 2:28 pm

      Hi Berger

      Thanks for your message.

      I think you’re in the right place on this list for what you’re describing. Size-wise, I would size down a bit from the 158 you’re currently riding. Nothing too drastic, but I think something around 156 would be a good bet. But if you could also let me know your boot size, that would help with sizing too.

      When you say “flexible” do you mean versatile, or are you looking for something with a softer flex? Sorry, that word can mean a couple of things.

      If you are looking for a little softer flexing, or more forgiving feel, then I think the Custom Flying V, Wizard Stick, Typo and Brainstorm would be good bets. If you’re looking for slightly stiffer, then the Mercury or Story (or if you want to go more aggressive you could also check out >>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards). The rest in between. For reference, this is what I would consider the most playful to most aggressive on this list:

      – Yes Typo
      – DWD Wizard Stick
      – Burton Custom Flying V
      – Slash Brainstorm
      – Rossignol One
      – Jones Mountain Twin
      – Nitro Team Gullwing
      – YES Standard
      – Capita Mercury
      – Niche Story

      I also just tested the Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker yesterday, and that is going to make it’s way on this list. It’s a softer (not like ultra soft, but like 5/10) more playful option too. I would put it in between the Custom Flying V and Brainstorm, in terms of playful/aggressive.

      In terms of boots, I would check out the following for a good match with these boards:

      >>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Berger says

        January 9, 2021 at 10:07 am

        Hi Nathan,
        Thanks for the reply. Really appreciate your insights. With “flexible” I mean regarding terrain. Using it on groomed runs with the family, but also in our dry powder on a pow day and some jumps here and there. I hope this makes sense.

        I was eyeballing the Yes Standard if that is still available and was also thinking about trying a smaller size. Would this make sense or too stiff? I would have to find a 156 as those seem to go out of stock quicker than the 153 variant.

        I mentioned my current boot size which is 29cm or US 11.5. In running shoes I normally have a 10 or 10.5 but snowboard boots seem to size up.

        Thanks again!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 10, 2021 at 3:11 pm

          Hey Berger

          Yeah that makes sense for sure, with regards to “flexible”.

          I think the Standard would work for what you’re describing. Size-wise, I would go for 153 for you. You could go 156, but I think for that particular board a 153 would work well for you. Other boards more like 155, 156, but for that one I think 153 would be a good bet. Again, 156 not a wrong size for you, but I would be leaning 153, if you did go with the Standard.

          Reply

          • Berger says

            January 11, 2021 at 12:12 pm

            Thanks Nate. Size 153 is great as this is still more widely available. I will give it a try and report back when I had a chance to get some hands on experience. 🙂

          • Nate says

            January 12, 2021 at 2:48 pm

            You’re very welcome Berger. Look forward to hearing how you get on.

          • Berger says

            January 24, 2021 at 9:31 pm

            Ok, we got about 20″ of snow over the weekend and I was able to take my new Yes Standard for a few rides. I like it so far. It’s very playful while chasing down the groomers, riding regular and switch or also in powder. I think the smaller size but a little bit wider board is great. Next weekends will show whether it continues to be good. Thanks again for your advice!

          • Nate says

            January 25, 2021 at 2:14 pm

            Hi Berger

            Thanks for the update. Much appreciated. 20″ of snow sounds amazing!

14. Max says

    January 7, 2021 at 8:54 pm

    Phenomenal info and I’m sorry if this already been asked. Hoping for some advice on a new board. I’ve been out of the loop for so long that I can’t decide on what’s best for me.

    I’ve been riding for like 15 years but don’t get out much anymore (couple times a year if I’m lucky.) I’ve ridden a Ride Agenda for the past 10 years and I’ve loved it. I had no idea it was a “beginner” board until I started looking into an upgrade. It’s old and beat up so it’s time for a change. I’ve gone down the rabbit hole online and I feel more lost than when I started.

    I’m just looking for a solo all mountain board that is more geared towards cruising, carving, groomers, etc. I’m too old for the park now and just want to ride the whole mountain. I suppose I would consider myself an intermediate/slightly advanced rider. Looking for something that’s more advanced than the Agenda, can hold an edge better, more suited towards bombing and hard carving, etc. But also not anything that’s too advanced or will be a massive leap in terms of forgiveness and catchiness from what I’m already used to. This has been what’s been so tough to nail down.

    I’ve narrowed down my picks to a Capita Mercury, Yes Typo, Ride Algorythm, K2 Broadcast, or Never Summer Proto Synthesis. The Proto is a long shot because I would like to stick to a camber dominant profile (I think – rockers didn’t even exist the last time I looked at boards.) I was about to pull the trigger on the Mercury but Evo.com rated this an “advanced” board which kind of scared me off. One reviewer said that it’s also extremely fast so that’s something to keep in mind. Anyhow — been going back and forth for days now and can’t figure out what’s best. Bottom line is I want a step up from my Agenda in terms of speed, edge hold, turn initiation, and overall quality but that’s still forgiving enough because I don’t ride much anymore. Any thoughts would be great. If there’s a board I didn’t mention please let me know. I’m mostly going off what The Good Ride is recommending from his Favorites. From the article it sounds like I should really consider the Yes Basic or Mountain Twin. I know I’m overthinking all this but I only get one shot at it. The Mercury just sounds like it’s the most advanced in terms of tech and innovation but I’m worried it might be a bit too much of a leap from what I’m used to. Thanks so much for any feedback!

    Lastly -I ride Burton Custom bindings with Moto Boots. Will probably upgrade to the newest version of the Custom for this new set up. Sorry for the long winded post. I’m just out of the loop completely and was hoping for some feedback. Much appreciated!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 8, 2021 at 1:59 pm

      Hi Max

      Thanks for your message.

      Definitely get how it can all get confusing, particularly if you haven’t been in the market for a new board for a while.

      In terms of the options you mentioned, the Mercury is a slightly more advanced board. It might be alright, but there is a risk that you won’t find it forgiving enough for what you’re looking for. I haven’t ridden the Algorythm yet, so I’m not sure about that one. I haven’t ridden the K2 Broadcast either, but based on other similar K2 boards, I don’t think it would be that forgiving either, but I couldn’t say for sure there. The Typo is certainly nice and forgiving, but still with good edge-hold and certainly a step up from the Agenda, in terms of speed, carving etc. This would be the easiest transition of the boards you’ve mentioned, IMO. It doesn’t take too much to getting used to Hybrid Rocker, and the Proto Synthesis is camber dominant, but definitely get if you didn’t want to take the chance on it, being the foreign option.

      The Mountain Twin would definitely be suitable for what you’re describing, IMO, and is a good all round board for any situation and any conditions. One that you can’t really go wrong with, IMO. Forgiving enough too. A little bit of a step up from the Typo in that sense, but not by that much. My prediction would be that it’s more forgiving than the Broadcast and Algorythm and certainly more forgiving than the Mercury. The Brainstorm, Nitro Team Gullwing and Rossi One Lf and YES Standard would all fit that description too, IMO. Though the Team Gullwing is a hybrid rocker.

      So yeah, I think any of those or the Typo, in the right size, would be a good bet for what you’re describing, IMO. If you need any sizing opinions, I would be happy to help. Would just need your height, weight and boot size.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Max S. says

        January 8, 2021 at 4:23 pm

        Nate—thanks a ton for responding. BTW I think I just posted a duplicate post since I didn’t see my initial comment after posting — so disregard please.

        Anyhow—thanks so much, this really helps. I’m glad you confirmed my suspicion of the Mercury, I think it may just be a bit outside my comfort zone. I keep going back to the Typo. Although I saw that in another response you ranked the Typo way ahead of the Standard in terms of playfulness. So I think the Standard might be more up my alley given what I’m looking for (minimal park and most stability). I’ll look more into the Brainstorm, Gullwing, and One LF. But at this rate it’s realistically down to the Typo, Standard, Jones MT, or the Rossi since you recommended it so highly overall.

        As far as sizing — I’m 5’9″ and hover around 180 lbs. I wear a size 10.5 Burton Moto boot but I think I should move down to a 10 realistically because I still get a bit of heel lift. My current Ride Agenda is a 156 which “seems” just fine to me. But again — I don’t really know since I never really got fitted. I just bought things here and there and made it work.

        That being said — any quick thoughts on new boots/bindings? I’ve honestly loved my current set up but again they are beginner/entry level. The Custom bindings are great and have a full toe cap which I absolutely love. From what I’ve been seeing on other high end bindings, the toe strap seems really sleek and minimalist without a toe cap? The toe cap is a must in my opinion since it keeps my boots so snug without that pressure point. Anyhow — thanks again!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 9, 2021 at 2:43 pm

          Hi Max

          Size-wise, I would look at the following sizes:

          – Typo 158
          – Standard 156
          – MT 157
          – One LF 159
          – Brainstorm 157
          – Team Gullwing 157 (or you could ride it in 159 as well)

          In terms of boots and bindings, I would go a little stiffer in bindings than the Custom to match those boards and your riding style. In terms of toe straps, most toe caps I test tend to be just fine for wrapping around the toes really well without pressure point. Some can only go around the toes and can’t go over the top of the boot. Some people still just like to go over top of the boot. I personally prefer to have the toe strap hugging the toe of the boot (which I think is the case for most these days). Are you referring to going over the top of the boot with the toe strap? Or wrapping it around the toe of the boot?

          If you wanted to stick with Burton for bindings, I would check out the Malavita and Cartel. The Cartel would be a good match to any of those boards, IMO, and doesn’t cost as much as the Malavita. The Genesis would work too – but costs even more.

          For boots, I would also go to something a little stiffer. Preferably around 6/10, 7/10 flex, but 5/10 flex would be fine, if you wanted to keep things a little softer. I felt the Moto at a 3/10 in terms of flex. Some options:

          >>My Top Freestyle (medium flex) Snowboard Boots

          >>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots

          Reply

15. Chess says

    January 7, 2021 at 1:25 pm

    Nate,

    Awesome post, it was a huge help. I’m a relative newbie. Been boarding for about 6 years up in Mt. Hood. I’m 6’1 and have been riding a 158 Bataleon Boss someone gave me when I first started. I enjoyed it and would consider getting a newer one. I’m 34 years old and although I have ambitions to make my way into the park, I rarely do without disastrous consequences. I do want to get better in that area though especially when it comes to launching natural features. Besides that, I’m most at home charging and carving. I’ve been considering the Slash ATV, Bataleon Goliath, and the Capita Mercury but I’m having a hard time figuring out if I need a wide board (I wear a size 11). I figured the 158-162 range should work fine. Which of the boards I listed do you think would work the best? Totally open to suggestions as well. Thanks.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 8, 2021 at 1:26 pm

      Hi Chess

      Thanks for your message.

      I don’t test Bataleon gear, so I can’t say anything from experience, but from what I know of the Goliath, it looks like it probably a little softer flexing than the Mercury and particularly the ATV. If you think you like that flex level, then the Goliath looks to be about that – but like I say, I don’t know from experience. The ATV is a sick board, and if you’re looking for something stiffer and more charging/carvy, then it’s a great option, IMO. Still good for jumps, sidehits, ollies etc, but just takes a little more to load up. But for it’s flex and how hard it charges, it actually pops fairly effortlessly. For more check out:

      >>Slash ATV Review

      The Mercury isn’t as stiff as the ATV and would certainly work for what you’re describing as well, if you didn’t want to go as stiff as the ATV.

      Size-wise, in terms of going wide, it depends on the board. With 11s for most boards wide is usually a good idea, particularly if you like to really lean into your carves. But for some boards you don’t need to go wide.

      In terms of length, if you could let me know your weight as well. I like to take height into account, but ability, weight, how you like to ride and boot size are all more important than height, IMO, for sizing.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Chess says

        January 21, 2021 at 8:40 am

        Nate,

        Thanks for the response. Everything you said was extremely helpful. I’ve narrowed it down to the ATV or the Merc, might be leaning Merc since it’s a bit softer. Figure that’ll help me figure out jumps. I’m around 185 pounds. Deep carves are my thing so wide it will be.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 21, 2021 at 11:23 am

          Hi Chess

          I think I would be leaning 159 for the Mercury for you. The only concern would be the width. It’s borderline for 11s, given that you like to carve deep. The 161 is within your range and would give you a little more leeway in terms of width, but not that much. What binding angles do you ride? And what brand/model are your boots (lower profile boots would make it more doable)?

          For the ATV, I think the 159W would be a really good size for you.

          Reply

          • Chess says

            February 4, 2021 at 12:03 pm

            Nate,

            My angles are on the back and +18 on the front and -8 in the back. I’m in a super old pair of Nike LunarEndors that are huge. I’ll probably get a new pair of boots when I get the new board.

            Thanks,

          • Nate says

            February 5, 2021 at 1:38 pm

            Hi Chess

            With those angles and low profile boots, you could be OK on the 159 Mercury, but it’s still on that edge, given you like to carve deep. If you ended up getting into low profile 10.5s, I would be more confident size-wise.

16. Jack says

    January 3, 2021 at 3:50 am

    Hey Nate,

    I just wanted you opinion on something. I just bought the Slash Brainstorm 160cm today; however, I was having trouble with whether I should have gone with the Salomon Assassin(162cm).
    Stats:
    -I am 6’1 (or maybe 6’2?)
    -weight fluctuates from about 175-185lb
    -I’m 21 and have been skiing since I was like 5 and boarding since I was like 12, so id say that I am at an advanced skill level.

    would the Salomon Assassin be better suited for me since its a 162 compared to the brainstorm which is 160cm, or is the 2cm difference not enough to be significant? will there be much of a difference in how these boards ride? I usually do blue runs and hit all the side kickers, and a few black runs, and I’ve been trying to get better in the park (pretty much a rookie in the park). do you have a preference between these two boards or a recommendation or are these boards essentially on the same level? I just want to make sure I choose the best board (especially since I’m a broke college student so this is a big purchase for me)

    Thank you

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 4, 2021 at 11:17 am

      Hi Jack

      Thanks for your message.

      I think both sizes are in your range, but based on how you describe your riding, I think the 162 is probably too long in the Assassin. If you have a personal preference for longer boards, it would be fine, but purely based on specs and how you describe your riding and ability, I would say 159 for Assassin (assuming you don’t need a wide board, in which case I’d say 158W).

      For the Brainstorm, I think the 160 is the right size for you (again assuming you don’t need a wide board).

      In terms of which would be best for what you’re describing, both are well suited to that style of riding. They’re certainly not the same board though.

      The Brainstorm is a little better in powder, if that’s something you get sometimes. And it’s overall a little more freeride oriented than the Assassin (not super freeride oriented, but more of a do-it-all versus the Assassin which I would call an all-mountain-freestyle board – a little more freestyle oriented).

      The Assassin is a little better for switch, jumps, spins, that kind of thing. But both pretty equal at speed, for carving and for boxes, rails etc.

      The Assassin has a little more camber going on, with the camber in the Brainstorm being pretty subtle. The Brainstorm is marginally stiffer, in my experience, but not by much.

      If it was between the 160 Brainstorm and the 162 Assassin, I would be leaning towards the 160 Brainstorm, because I think it’s a better size and will work well for how you describe your riding. If it was between the 159 Assassin and the 160 Brainstorm, might be leaning slightly Assassin, but it depends on whether or not you like to or get to ride powder. If so, then I’d still stick with Brainstorm. If not, then I would be leaning Assassin for what you’re describing, but the Brainstorm still certainly a good option for you, IMO, so if you didn’t want to go to the hassle of changing it, then the Brainstorm definitely isn’t a wrong choice.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

17. Nboarder7 says

    December 23, 2020 at 7:07 pm

    I can’t seem to choose a board. I’m an intermediate/advanced level rider. For the most part i’m an all-mountain rider. I want something that can carve well and be stable at higher speeds but also playful to a point where I can hot sidehits and take it into the park. I don’t do park much and I want to get better (I suck right now) but it won’t be my main focus by any mean’s I also want something that’s stable bot not so aggressive that I have to be on my A game if I just want to cruise. There’s a few boards a had in mind (Gnu riders choice, Capita Doa) Do you have any recommendations? I’m fine with other options besides the two boards i mentioned. Thanks in advance.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 24, 2020 at 1:34 pm

      Hi Nboarder7

      Thanks for your message.

      The Riders Choice and DOA could certainly work for what you’re describing, if you’re not too concerned with powder performance (the RC better there than the DOA, but the RC not as stable at speed, IMO). But if you wanted more for powder, then this is the list to look at. Giving you something in between aggressive and playful that can do a bit of everything, the likes of the YES Standard, Jones MT, Nitro Team Gullwing or Rossignol One LF. If you were looking for something a little more aggressive, but still not ultra aggressive, then the Story and Mercury fit that bill.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Nboarder7 says

        December 24, 2020 at 3:49 pm

        This help’s a lot, thanks a ton!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 26, 2020 at 2:15 pm

          You’re very welcome. Happy riding!

          Reply

18. M.L. says

    December 19, 2020 at 2:54 am

    Hi Nate,

    Great website, I love all the information you give!

    I am currently looking to buy my first board and find it very difficult to choose, I’d hope you could maybe help me out. I would say I’m at least end beginner/begin intermediate, with specs; 6.1 ft (186cm), 150 lbs (65 kgs) and boot size US 9.5 (43). Right now I’m just looking to board on the piste and increase my all-round snowboarding skills, as I have not yet found my preferred style of boarding.

    At this moment I’m undecided between:
    – Salomon craft
    – K2 Raygun
    – Capita Outerspace Living
    – Burton Process Flying V
    – Yes Basic

    Most of these boards come in the range of 155, 156 or 158. As for my specs, I do not know whether a 155 or 158 board will make a big difference. I would love to hear from you which board you would advise and which length would fit me best. If you have any other recommendations I would love to hear those too!

    Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 19, 2020 at 2:23 pm

      Hi M.L.

      Thanks for your message.

      I think something all-mountain or all-mountain-freestyle is the way to go at this point and something that’s high-end beginner/low intermediate friendly but that can progress with you. So I think you’ve got a pretty good list there of options. I would probably go Typo over Basic for you, just because it’s a little more versatile and since you haven’t really decided on style yet, I think it would be the slightly better choice there. But all those options there will work.

      I would throw the Ride Wildlife, Rossignol Templar and Never Summer Snowtrooper onto that list too and also check out:

      >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

      Size-wise, I would be looking at around 154, 155 in terms of size. Somewhat depends on the board too. If you can narrow it down to your top few choices, I would be happy to give you my specific sizing opinion for each board.

      Hope this helps
      Size-wise,

      Reply

19. Robert says

    December 14, 2020 at 4:55 am

    Hello,

    I want to buy my first snowboard, currently I am intermediate and I bought already the burton slx boots from 2020 and Burton Malavita strings.

    I am not sure about the board, I was aiming to Burton Process Camber, but from what I saw in your review is not the most enjoyable one. I also have boot size 11 and I am not sure if I should get a wide one or not.

    Preferably I would like to buy an All Mountain Freestyle board. The thing is that I also like to ride faster from time to time and I don’t think flying v or rocker in general will suit me.

    Looking forward for your opinion. You are doing a great job helping a lot of intermediate riders, usually they have the problem picking the board(just like me), thanks a lot for doing that.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 14, 2020 at 4:47 pm

      Hi Robert

      Thanks for your message.

      If you are looking predominantly at Burton I think the Process could work. Was still a fun board to ride. It’s not great for powder, IMO, but otherwise pretty fun. You could take a step up to the Custom, though it is a more challenging ride. If you’re a solid intermediate rider, like a high-end intermediate with good technique, then I think it’s a good option. That or the Burton Paramount (again high-end intermediate only though). The Kilroy Twin is an easier going ride than the Paramount, but it’s also not as stable at speed. If you want some options outside of Burton let me know. But those would be what I’d be looking at in terms of all-mountain-freestyle from Burton.

      With 11s, most of the time I would recommend wide, but sometimes you can get away with regular width, depending on a few things, like the particular board, but also how low profile your boots are and your binding angles. I already know your boots, but if you can let me know your typical binding angles. Then once you decide on the board, we can have a look at that particular board and see if you’ll need to go wide or not.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

20. Kristjan Medja says

    December 10, 2020 at 2:00 pm

    Hello Nate,

    I’m a fairly new snowboarder, currently sitting at about an intermediate skill level. After trying out all the styles a mountain has to offer, I recognized that I loved powder and speed. I also want to get into carving and having the option of doing some freestyle along the way. (I just fell in love with Ryan Knapton’s style)

    As the new season is coming up, hopefully, I wanted to get myself a new main board that I could take anywhere and do all of the things above. Having done a little research myself and having some history with Capita, I decided to put the 2021 Mercury as my number one choice.

    Nevertheless, I really wanted to get a second opinion on this as I plan to use this type of board for the foreseeable future. I’d love to hear any other board suggestions or tips.

    P.S.
    I love all the reviews and the work you’ve put into them. They really helped out and were a lot of fun to read.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 11, 2020 at 2:38 pm

      Hi Kristjan

      Thanks for your message.

      For what you’re describing, if you’re a solid intermediate level, I think the Mercury will work well. It’s a better carver than a lot of boards typically at this level. You can definitely get better carvers, but they would be at too high a level and wouldn’t be as good for developing your carving, IMO. The Mercury is something I would say you want to be at a solid or high-end intermediate level for. Some boards on this list are certainly suitable for low-end intermediate, but the Mercury is higher-end intermediate, IMO. So if you feel like you’re solid to high-end intermediate, then I think it will work well – but if you’re more low intermediate it might be a bit challenging.

      Also, make sure you get the size right, that’s really important. If you want my opinion on sizing, I would be happy to help – would just need your height, weight and boot size.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

21. Daniel says

    December 5, 2020 at 10:58 pm

    Where would the Burton Custom Camber rank? Is it not considered all mountain? I’ve been told the Jones MT and the Custom Camber are very similar and can’t go wrong with either. Leaning towards the Burton but I don’t see it on many top 5/10 lists around the web, while almost everyone recommends the Jones MT. Am I missing something?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 7, 2020 at 4:20 pm

      Hi Daniel

      Thanks for your message.

      The Custom Camber is a little more aggressive than the MT – which is why I categorize it as an “aggressive all-mountain” board. It would make my top 10 aggressive all-mountain list, except that that only goes to a top 6.

      Whilst it’s not worlds apart from the Mountain Twin, I wouldn’t go as far as to call them very similar. The Custom, like I said is a little more aggressive. It’s subtly stiffer and has a good bit more camber. The MT is also better in powder, which is one of the reasons it scores higher than the Custom a lot of the time. MT just a little more versatile. But depending on how you prefer to ride, the Custom may be better suited to you. I would say the most similar board to the Custom Camber is the Nitro Team (camber version). The MT and Custom have some similarities and they are a similar category of board, but I wouldn’t go as far as to call them very similar.

      If you want to check out more detail about how I found specific factors between the MT and Custom, you can check out my review of the Custom here. Compare the score breakdowns for both boards to see which you think you’d prefer for your riding.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

22. Sam Lopate says

    December 1, 2020 at 7:10 am

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks for the great articles and snowboard reviews. I’m looking to get a new board and wanted to hear your recommendation.

    I’m an intermediate rider, looking for a board that can do all mountain and also be good in the park. I live on the East Coast, so I’m mostly skiing in Vermont and New Hampshire. So first and foremost I need a board that does really well in icy conditions and hard snow. At the same time, I try to make it out west when I can, so I want something that can at least do decently well in powder as well. I often ride with really good skiiers, so I need something that does well in moguls and trees, can go anywhere on the mountain, and has a lot of speed to keep up on groomers.

    I’m looking for a board that will push me to improve as a rider, primarily with my turning on steep and uneven runs, carving ability, riding switch, and jumps.

    I’m 5’10” and wear a size 11 Burton boot. My previous board I got cheap used, it was 165 and way too big. If you have recommendations on size I’m curious about that as well.

    Some boards I was considering were the YES Typo, YES Globe NSB (Looks fairly similar to the typo), Niche Story, Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker, Jones Mountain Twin, Slash Brainstorm, Rossignol One LF, YES Standard, and the Ride Algorhythm. Would love to hear what you think about these or if you have other recommendations. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 1, 2020 at 11:53 am

      Hi Sam

      Thanks for your message.

      In terms of sizing, if you could also let me know your weight. Weight plays a big role in sizing.

      From those boards:

      The Globe NSB isn’t a board I’ve ridden, but YES rates it a good bit stiffer than the Typo (9/10 versus 6/10 for the Typo by YES’s ratings). Not sure how accurate that is, but it seems it would be quite stiff.

      Given what you’re describing, the Typo may not quite have the speed you want.

      Ride boards that I’ve tested haven’t been particularly good in hard/icy conditions. I’m yet to ride the Algorhtym, so I couldn’t say for sure there, but that would be my biggest concern there for you.

      The Niche Story is a bit more board than the others. A little stiffer and a little more challenging to maneuver – at an intermediate level and riding trees/moguls, not sure it would be the best option.

      I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker yet (about to soon, finally!) but on paper it looks like it would suit what you’re describing well.

      The Mountain Twin, Brainstorm, One LF and Standard would all be good choices, IMO.

      Hope this helps – and yeah let me know your weight and I can give you my sizing opinion.

      Reply

      • Sam Lopate says

        December 1, 2020 at 7:16 pm

        Thanks for the input. I weigh 166 pounds. Debating between a 155 and 158.

        Regarding the Globe NSB, I read that it’s not really a 9 and probably more like a 7. I’m actually leaning towards this board as it seems to tick a lot of the boxes regarding speed, all-mountain, also good at switch.

        The Terrain Wrecker was my second choice, the main thing I read preventing it from being my #1 though was that it doesn’t power through uneven terrain as well and you really feel it in your knees. This is something I noticed with my old board and I was hoping for something a little more damp.

        I think after that I would go with the One LF. Or maybe the Niche Aether, which seems more maneuverable than the Story. But I’m kind of liking the Globe NSB more than either of those, assuming that it’s more of a 7 flex than a 9.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 2, 2020 at 2:41 pm

          Hi Sam

          Yeah, 165 definitely too long, IMO, for your other board.

          For the Globe NSB, I certainly wouldn’t be surprised if it felt more like a 7/10 – YES, IMO, tends to overstate their boards flex from my experience with their other boards.

          Size-wise, I think you could certainly go either 155 or 158. Because you’re used to a 165, that makes am argument to look at 158 – that and the fact that you’re looking for speed. However, on the flip side, the shorter 155 is probably the better size, based on specs/ability, IMO, and would be better for trees/moguls too. If you weren’t riding a 165 currently, I would likely more strongly recommend 155, particularly with the stiffer Globe NSB as opposed to the Typo, but there’s certainly an argument towards the 158.

          However, perhaps the bigger concern is the width, with size 11 boots. The 158 would give you a little more leeway, but still quite narrow for 11s.

          Reply

      • Danny says

        December 4, 2020 at 8:16 pm

        What’s up man ! Came across your review on Google and I am very impressed!
        I am looking for an all mountain board that I can ride switch a lot , jumps , spins, speed , carves , and just a bit of over all freestyle on slopes and park here and there . Definitely a twin board of your recommendation
        I am 5’11
        220 pounds
        Size 12 boot

        Thank you so much !!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 5, 2020 at 2:47 pm

          Hey Danny

          Thanks for your message.

          I would check out the following lists, which I think would fit your riding style better than this list.

          >>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

          >>Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

          Size-wise, probably around 161, 162-ish in a wide, to get a good balance between spins, freestyle etc and speed/carves. If you wanted more freestyle focused you could certainly go a little shorter too. Depends on particular board and if you have any personal preferences too. If you narrow down a list to a couple of boards, I would be happy to give my sizing opinion on those particular boards – if you didn’t already have a size in mind.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

23. Kieran Dugdale says

    November 29, 2020 at 10:14 am

    Hi Nate,

    I currently have a yes basic. This was my first snowboard, I’m from the UK and we go away every year for a week in the Alps, got about 5 weeks experience and a lot of time spend on a indoor ski slope . I would like to get another snowboard what a great resort and all mountain snowboard. I don’t really do much park riding just normally go around the resort. I would like one what preforms better in the soft snow compared to the yes basic. I like the thought of the yes typo but I’m unsure if this is too similar to the yes basic. As when I go away I would like to take both board and decide on the day what to ride. I have also looked at the capita mercury but I’m unsure if this would be too stiff. If you can advice some board that would be great.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 30, 2020 at 12:47 pm

      Hi Kieran

      Thanks for your message.

      The Typo is certainly different to the Basic, but not so different that I would have them in the same quiver. They are too similar for that, IMO. Given you’re looking for a step up in powder, then I would go with something else a little more different.

      The Mercury is certainly on the more aggressive side for this list, but it’s not super aggressive. I have another list for aggressive all-mountain snowboards and it wasn’t aggressive enough to make it there, but it is one of the more challenging boards on this particular list. If you’re a solid intermediate rider and like your ride a little more aggressive, then the Mercury would work and would be different enough to have in the same quiver as the Basic for sure.

      But if you didn’t want to go quite as stiff/aggressive, then anything else on this list (bar the Niche Story, which is also more aggressive) would be a good bet, IMO.

      If you wanted to go even more directional, there are more mellow freeride boards that could be options too, like the following:

      >>Top 10 Surfy (mellow) Freeride Snowboards\

      But if you wanted to stick to a more “do-it-all” kind of board, then something off this list is a good bet.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

24. Adam says

    November 24, 2020 at 10:39 pm

    Hi Nate,

    First off, thanks so much for the reviews and advice that you give to everyone. Your knowledge is invaluable.

    I currently would consider myself an intermediate 5 rider as last season was really my first full season being able to ride and learn. I was learning and riding on my Artec Novus wide 158 and I believe that now I am able to move on to a newer, more modern board that I can grow into and will provide me seasons of excellent riding. I ride mainly in the Tahoe area, so some good power days as well as days with the typical Sierra cement groomers. I’d consider myself an all mountain rider with mainly sticking to runs, exploring trees and a little bit of off piste exploring. As of right now, I want to become better at tying turns together, carving and continuing to become a better rider.

    I am ~205-210lbs without gear, size 11 boot
    Main board has been the Artec Novus W158 with Burton Mission Bindings
    I’m in the market for a new board and new boots with keeping my bindings.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 25, 2020 at 1:47 pm

      Hi Adam

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, I think you’re in the right place, given everything you’re describing. An all-mountain board is the way to go, IMO. Pretty much anything on this list would do the trick, IMO. But to note that the Niche Story and Capita Mercury are slightly more aggressive options, which might be a bit much for you at this stage. And something like the Typo isn’t quite as good in powder as others in the list, and since you’re going to be encountering that a fair bit, that’s another one that could be crossed off. But everything else, I think would work well for what you’re describing.

      Length-wise, if you could also let me know your height. Weight, boot size, ability and how you like to ride are all more important than height, IMO, but I still like to take height into account.

      Width-wise, with 11s, in most cases you’ll probably want to go wide, but depending on the board you may not have to. Really depends on the board. If you narrow down to a few options that are standing out for you, I would be happy to give you my opinion on sizing for each board.

      For boots, I would check out the following:

      >>My Top All Mountain (6/10 to 7/10 flex) Snowboard Boots

      >>My Top Freestyle (5/10 flex) Snowboard Boots

      The second list is called “freestyle” but it’s just the label I gave the list. They’re also good for riding all-mountain – just a little softer flexing, so for more casual/playful all-mountain riding.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Adam says

        November 25, 2020 at 3:38 pm

        Thanks for the great advice Nate! I completely forgot to throw in my height (5’11”). The Burton Custom Flying V probably stands out the most. I’ve also shown some interest in Arbor boards, however, none of them made your list. I’m honestly open to anything that will suit the terrain that I ride and will give me room to grow into.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 26, 2020 at 12:42 pm

          Hi Adam

          I think the Custom Flying V would work for your conditions and how you describe your riding.

          Size-wise, I would be looking, generally at something 158-161 for you. So for the Custom Flying V that probably means 158W or 158. Most likely the 158W. The 162/162W are certainly within reach too, if you wanted to go longer, but would be on the bigger side, if you were to go 162W. The 162 would be very doable for you though, IMO.

          In terms of width, the 158 or 162 could be doable depending on some things. If you get low profile boots and ride with binding angles like +15/-15 and don’t carve super aggressively (e.g. eurocarving), then I think you could get away with the regular width. Otherwise I would go with the wide version. If going wide, then I would lean 158W over 162W. If you do think you can get on the regular width, then it’s a closer call between 158 and 162 – some things to consider:

          – 162 would give you more stability at speed, more float in powder and better of big carves
          – 158 more agile, particularly at slow speeds (better for trees) and better for spins/butters/jibs etc

          Reply

25. Valentine says

    November 23, 2020 at 5:54 am

    Hello Nate!
    Thank you for the great job and your reviews.

    Could I ask you for advice?

    I’m 6’0 (183 cm) weight 162 lbs (74 kg)without equipment, Boots – 10.5 US B Photon .
    My main board is Yes PYL FW 2017 162. But last 2 years I haven’t ridden off-piste. I like my board but I want something more playful and slightly softer, an all-mountain board mid to mid-stiff flex but with good powder performance. I don’t like flying v profile.
     
    I am choosing between the next options:
    1. Downsized PYL to 159 (160w) or FA 159 (159w).
    The problems are:
    – no local dealer of Yes snowboards;
    – The current version is stiffer than mine. Does my version in 162 have the same flex as the current version in 159?

    I haven’t ridden PYL 159 but like FA 159. I would like to test FA 159 wide version. The additional area should have better for flotation but the board will be slower edge to edge.
    I find PYL is more playful of these 2 boards.  

    2. Burton Hometown Hero 156. I haven’t tried it yet. It is a freeride board but very versatile.

    3. ENDEAVOR MAVERICK. I know nothing about the brand and the board and won’t be able to try before buy. But I like the specs. Have you ever tried this board?

    4. All-mountain board with good off-piste performance:
    4.1. Jones Frontier 159? This board is a more off-piste oriented all-mountain board due to its profile. I tested the last version of the Explorer – I like FA 159 much more. Should I give second chance to the Frontier?
    4.2. Jones MT 21 159w (160) for more freestyle ride.
    4.3. Capita Mercury 159 for a little more aggressive ride.
    4. Any other board that you will recommend.

    Which one has a better floatation? Is a difference significant?

    I have heard that the new version is softer than the previous one. Is it true? are the Frontier and Mercury stiffer?

     I will very pleased if you will find time to answer me. 

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 24, 2020 at 10:22 am

      Hi Valentine

      Thanks for your message. Will try to answer everything there:

      1. The 2017 PYL isn’t that much different in flex versus the 2017 model. The 2018 model (and subsequently the 2019, 2020 and 2021 models) were supposed to be slightly stiffer than the 2017 model, but there really isn’t that much difference. I would say that the 159 PYL in the current version would feel moderately softer than your 2017 162 PYL. For your specs and given that you want something more playful, I think the 159 would be the better size than the 162, if you were to get another PYL. You could also consider the 160W. Not going to be as nimble as the 159, but for harder carves, if you really like to carve, like eurocarve, it would give you more leeway there. And since the 160W isn’t that wide for a wide board, I don’t think it would be too wide for your boots. For the FA, the 159 might be pushing it being too narrow. 159W FA is also not that wide for a wide board, so that might be the better size if you decided to go with that. However, if you find the PYL is the more playful of the 2 and you’re looking for something more playful, then the PYL might be the better of those 2 options.

      2. The Hometown Hero is subtly softer/more playful than the FA, IMO, but only by a little bit. You can check out more on my Hometown Hero Review

      3. I haven’t ridden the Endeavor Maverick specifically, but I have ridden a few Endeavor boards, and I liked them. The Maverick is kind of similar to the Archetype, by the looks of it, but less tapered/directional. Not sure if it would be more playful than the PYL or not, hard to say. You can check out more on the Archetype here

      4.1: The Frontier is basically the same board as the Explorer, so if you liked the FA more than the Explorer you will like it more than the Frontier too.
      4.2: The MT is a very versatile board. I would call it a do-it-all board, rather than a freestyle board, but certainly more freestyle focused than the likes of the other boards you’re looking at. But also certainly more playful/easy going than the others
      4.3: Mercury is also what I would call a “do-it-all” board, but, as you mention, more aggressive than the MT. If you’re looking to go more playful, then that would be the only thing to consider.

      The MT and Mercury are very similar in terms of powder float, IMO. The Frontier is half a step better. But versus the likes of the FA and PYL you would loose a little in terms of powder float with something like the MT or Mercury.

      The new MT is more easy going. It turns a little quicker and easier. But I wouldn’t say it’s significantly softer flexing overall. Maybe subtly. But more so that it’s just taken on a more easy going personality. Easier to ride, easier to turn versus the previous models. The Mercury and Frontier are slightly stiffer than the MT, IMO. Not by heaps, but just half a step stiffer. MT 6/10, Mercury 6.5/10, Frontier 6.5/10.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Valentine says

        November 26, 2020 at 1:15 pm

        Nate thank you so much for your time and advice!
        I hope you don’t mind if I will ask a few questions.

        Hope that in a month I will test FA in 159w size and Hometown Hero.

        There are no Capita Mercury in my country. Only Jones and Burton models.

        You have tested MT in 157. Your weight is close to the recommended maximum rider weight. Would you like to try a bigger size (159w or 160)? 159w and 160 specs are very similar. The difference in the effective edge is only 4 mm (1230 vs 1234), the first has a wider waist width (261 vs 157). Or is 157 definitely your size? Should I consider MT in 157?
        I am not sure that I can test both sizes before buy.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 27, 2020 at 12:59 pm

          Hi Valentine

          If I bought it I would probably go 157, for a couple of reasons. I like to err slightly short in my boards for my specs. And that’s for a couple of reason’s. Firstly, my local mountain’s are quite small, so just bombing straight down the hill isn’t that much fun – it’s over pretty quick. So I like to make the most of my time on the slope and secondly my style of riding is such that on the Mountain Twin I would be riding a lot of trees, hitting the park, doing flatland tricks, butters etc a lot of the time. I do ride bigger mountains too – but if this was my do-it-all board, that would be the size I would go for. If I was to get this as and do quite a bit more open terrain powder, bowls etc and a lot more bombing, but still wanted to something to sometimes slow down and play around with, in the trees, in the park, etc, then I would probably go 160. But for me 157 is the sweet spot with this board.

          For you, if you want more that style of riding, then I would say 157 too. But if you’re looking to go just a little more playful than your 162 PYL, then the 160 or 159W would be the better options – and I would go 160 as I think it would be plenty wide enough for your boots. Even in a similar size the MT should be a little more playful than the PYL. But if you wanted to use it as a compliment to your PYL – as in keep both boards, depending on how you want to ride that day, then I think the 157 would be a good choice.

          Reply

          • Valentine says

            November 27, 2020 at 3:34 pm

            Thank you, Nate!

            I already have Capita DOA 158 for that style of riding. For big days I have PYL.
            I am looking for a board that similar to DOA (do-it-all board) that will be better in powder than DOA, especially in trees. If MT 257 is that board I will change DOA:)

          • Nate says

            November 29, 2020 at 2:09 pm

            Hi Valentine

            Yeah, the MT will be better in powder than the DOA for sure, IMO. And if you go 157, then you get that slightly shorter length for those tighter spots in the trees versus something like the 160. The MT in 157 is, IMO, going to be noticeably better in powder than 158 DOA.

          • Valentine says

            February 10, 2021 at 6:01 am

            Hello, Nate.

            I can buy Yes Standart 156 with a good discount.
            Could you explain the main differences between Yes and Jones MT?

            Is it a good option for city spots (short pistes around 400-500 meters), buttering, not big park jumps?
            Is it good for trees riding in mountains or MT will better?

          • Nate says

            February 10, 2021 at 1:52 pm

            Hi Valentine

            I would say that the MT is a little more forgiving than the Standard. Not miles apart. Both are fine for buttering, IMO. They’re not super buttery, but they’re more buttery than average, IMO. Standard good for small jumps, IMO (as well as bigger ones).

            The MT (2021 model at least, the 2020 model wasn’t as easy to maneuver) is a little easier to maneuver at slower speeds, IMO, so a little better in trees.

          • Valentine says

            February 11, 2021 at 12:33 pm

            Thank you!

            I’ve just checked the size of my boots. It is US 10:) I was sure that size is bigger.

            Standard is available in 153 and 156.
            I read the comments and your answers.

            Standard is a replacement for Capita DOA158. I think I would be leaning 153. It is a more freestyle-oriented size, which is good for shredding spots around the city and park jumps, trees.

            On the other hand, 156 seems more versatile size, and a little bit of extra volume won’t slow me down in the park and is going to make the powder better in the mountains.

            Please correct me if I wrong.
            Have you tested 153? Could you compare them?

            If you choose the second snowboard what size would you prefer?

          • Nate says

            February 12, 2021 at 1:37 pm

            Hi Valentine

            I haven’t ridden the 153, but based on testing other boards in different sizes, I would say:

            The 153 will be more nimble at slower speeds, easier to butter, easier to pop and spin etc.

            The 156 in comparison will be more stable at high speeds and float better in powder.

            For the biggest contrast to your PYL 162 and for a more playful, more freestyle oriented ride and for those city spots, I think the 153 would definitely work. The 156 will be better in powder for sure, but less maneuverable in trees. I think on a powder day, you could take out your 162 PYL and that would allow you to go for the more playful 153. The 156 would be the better size if it was your only board and you wanted something for do-it-all.

          • Valentin says

            February 24, 2021 at 9:02 am

            Hello Nate!
            Thank you for your help and all your replies to my questions, spent time. It was so helpful!
            As a result, I bought Jones MT 157. Standard has a narrower max reference stance (153 max stance – 22, 156 max stance – 23.1) than another Yes board in similar size. I don’t understand why if they recommend going one size down. My stance width 22-23 inches (22,5 is most comfortable).
            I have tried it yet, but I am ready shredding. I will give you short feedback.

            Will MT work well with Union Atlas or Salomon Highlander. Or you would not recommend anything stiffer than Union Strata or Force? I would like to buy bindingd to my PYL or its direct replacement.

          • Nate says

            February 25, 2021 at 3:48 pm

            Hi Valentin

            Atlas or Highlander would definitely work on the Mountain Twin, IMO. Those are the stiffest I would probably put on it, but they’re definitely a match, IMO. And they would also work on your PYL, if you were looking to share bindings between the boards. Look forward to hearing how you get on, once you’ve got it on snow.

26. Joseph says

    November 2, 2020 at 8:15 am

    Hey Nate,
    Love the website it’s great. I’m having a lot of decision fatigue trying to buy a new board. It’s been about 10 years since I’ve upgraded the tech has gotten crazy. I predominantly ride on the East coast and I’m looking for something to hold well on ice and hard pack. I also generally avoid the park, love bombing runs, carving, quick turns, playing in the glades, and when there’s some pow using it. I usually travel about once a year to find better snow out west or in Canada. Don’t ride switch so much but I would like to improve my switch riding. I’m also teaching my wife to snowboard this year so something that nimble lower speeds would be great. I’m 5’4 weigh 165 lb and have size 8 and 1/2 boots. I’m currently riding a 2010 ride machete 158 cm my bindings during that time were a pair of flow the fives which I don’t really like. I like how damn the board is and how it can handle speed, but it feels a little long for my use. I demoed the board at 148 when I was out west a couple years ago and really liked how nimble it was. I also learned to ride on a cambered board so I’m not afraid of that either.

    I honestly don’t know whether I need an all mountain or more of a free ride inspired board. The ones I’m thinking about are the yes typo, the yes standard, and I’ve always wanted a burton custom but they don’t seem to be as good as what else is out there right now. I’m totally open to something directionally shaped as opposed to just twin. I’m also thinking of running it a little bit smaller in the 150 to 154 range.

    I managed to snag a pretty good deal on a pair of cartels and a pair of TM-2 32 boots. Any advice you give me on this subject would be awesome, I appreciate it.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 2, 2020 at 12:15 pm

      Hi Joseph

      Thanks for your messages.

      I agree that sizing down from 158, given your specs, is a good idea. And I think that range is a good one to look at.

      The 3 boards you’ve mentioned would definitely work for what you’re describing, but I would be leaning either Typo or Standard for you. I like the Custom too, but given that you ride East Coast predominantly and the Typo and Standard are better in hard/icy conditions, IMO, I would lean that way.

      For the Standard I would be debating size-wise, between the 149 and 151, because it’s a wider board, going to the shorter end of your range makes sense, with 8.5 boots. I would be leaning towards the 151 still, but the 149 is an option.

      For the Typo, it would be between the 152 and 155. I think both would work, but leaning towards the 152 based on your specs and what you’re describing.

      For some perspective between the longer and shorter options there. The shorter options will be subtly more agile (particularly at slower speeds0, easier to butter/press etc and feel a little softer flexing overall. The longer options will be subtly more stable at higher speeds, give better float in powder, and better for big carves.

      You could look at a freeride option, for sure. Wouldn’t be as easy for riding switch or buttering though. If you wanted to check out some slightly softer than typical freeride boards, you could check out the following (which includes the Skeleton Key there):

      >>Top 10 Surfy (mellow) Freeride Snowboards

      But yeah, you’ll get more for riding powder, and in some case better for carving/bombing, but not as good, for buttering/switch.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

27. Joseph Lynch says

    November 2, 2020 at 4:15 am

    Hey Nate, love the website. I’m definitely having decision fatigue about a new board. I’m riding almost exclusively east coast with occasional holidays to better stuff out West. I almost never go into the park and don’t have a lot of interest in doing so. I like to bomb runs, carve, play in the glades, and buttering around. I would say I’m between a 7 and 8 on your ability scale. I grew up rising camber and have been on a ride Machete 158 from 2010 for the last decade. It’s a good board, damp, stable, fast but feels a little big especially for really quick turning. I rode a 148 in Tahoe a few years ago and loved it so I’m thinking of siInf 150 to 154. I found a good deal on some Cartels so I’ll be rocking those and some TM-2 boots. I’m 5’4 165 lbss and 8.5 boot.

    Boards I’ve been thinking about:
    – Yes Typo
    – Yes Standard
    – Custom camber (the cool factor from back in the early 2000s is something I can’t shake)

    Also not opposed to a more freeride shaped board like the skeleton key. I’m just overwhelmed man. Would appreciate your insights.

    Reply

28. stefan says

    October 28, 2020 at 4:00 am

    Hi,

    Love the website and bought Strata ones on your opinion and was spot on.

    My question is this, have you been able to test the K2 party platter? I’m undecided to either go with MT Jones or the k2 party platter.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 28, 2020 at 10:38 am

      Hi Stefan

      Thanks for your message.

      I haven’t ridden the Party Platter, so I can’t say anything about it from experience. But the Party Platter and Mountain Twin are very different boards. The Party Platter is a lot more directional and it’s a short wide board. If you can let me know your style of riding (i.e. how you like to ride – do you ride switch?, powder?, jumps?, other freestyle stuff?, trees? aggressive or more moderate?, etc), I can give you my opinion on which board I think would be more suited to your riding.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

29. ArsN says

    October 25, 2020 at 5:41 am

    I cannot really decide between Nitro Team Standard and a Bataleon Whatever for a good playful all mountain Board. What do you guys think?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 26, 2020 at 10:51 am

      Hi ArsN

      Thanks for your message.

      I haven’t ridden the Bataleon Whatever, but it looks pretty playful based on the specs.

      The Team is a little more aggressive than playful, if you’re looking at the Team Camber. The Team Gullwing is a little more playful. Not super playful, but in the middle of playful and aggressive, maybe just on the playful side of the scale.

      The YES Standard is in the middle of playful and aggressive.

      I wasn’t sure if you meant “Nitro Team, YES Standard and a Bataleon Whatever” or if you meant Team Camber by “Nitro Team Standard”. So I covered both bases.

      For reference, this is what I would consider to be the most playful to least playful from this list:

      – Yes Typo
      – DWD Wizard Stick
      – Burton Custom Flying V
      – Slash Brainstorm
      – Rossignol One
      – Jones Mountain Twin
      – Nitro Team Gullwing
      – YES Standard
      – Capita Mercury
      – Niche Story

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

30. daniel says

    September 29, 2020 at 7:46 am

    Hi Nate,

    First off, thank you for such usefull information on your website. It’s been really helpfull.

    I’m brazilian and been snowboarding for some time (high intermediate level). Despite logistics and flight costs, been looking to buy my first snowboard because I think it’ll be good for my progression on the sport. The most suitable for me, would be an all-mountain board since I can travel from south america to japan for snowboarding (all possible snow conditions), depending on my availability per year. I’m not that into park riding, I’d rather go off-piste and find some powder and/or go down the resort pistes being playfull, some buttering, jumps, etc. The thing is, I’ll need to buy the board online and get it delivered to my next trip’s hotel. Won’t be able to check it on a store, and, most of the boards I’m looking at, are not available for renting.

    I’m 1,81M tall, weighting 79 kg, sizing 11 burton swath. Recommended WW: 25.6

    For what you’ve written, I’ve been looking forward on two of the best and play-safe options:
    1- Capita Mercury: Uses premium material, such as carbon. The tips are more flexible and will increase playfulness. The board seems to have a great float and perform good in powder. It’s also good at high speeds and turns more towards the aggressive all mountain freeride side. Despite that, I’ve been reading that the death grip sidecut makes the board narrower than the stated width (???). They don’t have wide boards. I’m really worried with potential toe/heels drag issues. Capita recommends the 157 (WW 25.7) while the 159 has a (WW 25.9) and seems safer IMO.
    2- Jones Mountain Twin: One of the best reviews around. A little bit on the flexier side turning more towards the all mountain park side. Still, it will perform great on powder and is consistent at high speeds. Despite that, it’s a little bit flexier (than mercury) and the board has made it’s changes for 2021, including sizes. What size should I be looking at on this board, 156W (WW 25.9) 159W (WW 26.1)?

    That said, what’s your opinion on what I should pull the trigger? What board sizes should I aim? What binding best fit theses boards (i’m guessing large sizes here is the safest choice)?

    Thank you very much. I’ts been really hard to make a decision “in the dark” (online) miles away from the boards. Best regards,
    Daniel.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 29, 2020 at 11:01 am

      Hi Daniel

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the safest bet is the Mountain Twin, just because you mention “being playfull, some buttering” which the Mountain Twin will be better at. It’s not as good for out and out speed and hard carves as the Mercury, but it’s still not bad there, and if you need a safe option, it’s the safest option, IMO. Good in all conditions and for doing a bit of everything.

      Size-wise, both the 156W and 159W would work. Both would be a good width for your boots, IMO, and both would definitely work length-wise. Some things to note – the 156W will feel a little softer flexing, more playful and be more agile and more buttery. The 159W will give you a little more stability at speed, feel a bit stiffer and give you a little more float in powder. So it kind of depends on what you want to maximize in that sense.

      If you went Mercury, I think the 157 would be the better length for that board. But it is a little narrower – 266mm at the back insert and 264 at the front insert. Compared with the Mountain Twin 156W more like 274mm at inserts and 169W more like 276mm at inserts. So it might be borderline too narrow, if you’re concerned with drag. The 159 would give you a little more leeway, but not a whole lot more – 2-3mm more. And then with that board already being more aggressive, more stable at speed etc, going longer will make those things better, but might not give you the right balance between being stable and being agile/playful.

      Not sure if you got my reply from your previous message you sent on the bindings sizings post, but if you didn’t you can see it at the following link:

      >>How to Choose the Right Size Snowboard Bindings (scroll to the bottom)

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • daniel says

        September 29, 2020 at 2:06 pm

        Nate,

        Thank you very much for all the heads-up. All your website and info has been really helpfull all the way back to Brazil!!!

        I hadn’t seen your reply there, yet. But as you can see it’s been a long way. A couple of weeks ago it was assassin/custom and now seems better to go Mountain twin/mercury kkkkk.

        Sure was a lot of help. Thanks

        Reply

        • Nate says

          September 30, 2020 at 9:41 am

          Hey Daniel. You’re very welcome. Hope you have an awesome season!

          Reply

31. Dylan says

    September 18, 2020 at 11:08 am

    Hey Nate, sorry I am posting again as I’m not sure my last post went through. I am 6’0, 170-175lbs, and size 9.5 boot. I am torn between Yes Standard 153, Ride Algorythm 157, and Capita Mercury 155 or 157 for the 2021 season in Vancouver. I ride everything on the mountain from pow to park jumps to groomers, but I am not really into jibbing although I may hit a rail here and there. I love to treat the whole mountain as a park, rip through trees, ride switch, butter, throw some spins and grabs, and pop into the sky. I wouldn’t consider myself a hard charger, although everyone once in awhile I like to get some speed going. The reason I’m looking at these 3 boards is because while I am a little more all-mountain freestyle oriented, I value riding in the powder as well. One thing I will say is I doubt I will use the slambacks on the Standard, so I would like to know how the centred stance does in powder vs the other two boards. Is there anything you can say to push me in the right direction?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 18, 2020 at 12:07 pm

      Hi Dylan

      Thanks for your message.

      I think you basically just described exactly how I like to ride!

      I haven’t ridden the Algoryhtm yet, so anything I say in comparison with that is based on the Algorythm’s specs and my experience with other Ride boards.

      The YES Standard in the centered stance is still pretty good for a center stance in powder, but obviously going into the slam back inserts helps it to float better. I would say the Standard goes down to a 3/5 in the centered stance, in terms of powder vs 3.5/5 for the Mercury and I would say probably 3.5/5 for the Algoryhtm also. Though if you went 156 in the Standard that would improve it’s float in powder. More on sizing that in a sec.

      I don’t know what the Algorythm is like in terms of maneuverability in tight spaces, but I personally found the Standard a little better in that area vs the Mercury – particularly if you were to go 153 for the Standard. The Standard is a wider board, but for its width maintains really good agility, in my experience. The Mercury isn’t bad in that area, but I would say the Standard a little better.

      The Standard is more buttery than the Mercury, and at a guess, I’d say more buttery than the Algorythm. Better all round for that more freestyle stuff, IMO.

      The Mercury takes it for hard carves and bombing and that little bit better in powder – and it’s one board I noticed, more so than other boards, that seems to become quite surfy and fun in powder, even though it’s got a more aggressive personality on groomers/harder snow.

      My instinct says Standard – mainly because that’s the board I would take for the type of riding that you’re doing. The Mercury would certainly do the job and the Algorhym probably too, but I would be leaning standard.

      In terms of sizing, I think the 153 would work for you in the Standard, but I would also be debating the 156. You have similar specs to me – a little lighter maybe, but pretty close. I really like the 156, but it’s a tough call between the 2 sizes. The 153 would give you more agility for tree riding, be more buttery and just generally be more freestyle geared, but the 156 would give you a bit more float in powder and more stability at speed, for when you do like to open it out. So, it’s a tough call.

      A similar debate between the Mercury 155 and 157. I’ve ridden the Mercury in the 155, 157 & 159. I found the 159 too big. The 155 was doable, but the 157 is what I would ride the Merucry in. Again, being slightly lighter, you might prefer the 155, but same goes as above in terms of where you gain and lose going longer or shorter.

      Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.

      Reply

      • Dylan says

        September 19, 2020 at 11:11 am

        Thanks so much for your help! I ended up buying the Standard 156. I saw in your review it looked like you were riding it with Malavitas. Im trying to decide between Malavitas, the new Cartel X, Union Force and Union Atlas. Can you push me in the right direction here?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          September 20, 2020 at 1:57 pm

          Hi Dylan

          Usually I recommend to match the flex of the board fairly closely, or if anything a little stiffer than the board, and in some cases that depends on how you ride too. So I would say 6/10 – 7/10 in terms of flex, with the Standard. But I rode it with the Malavitas, which I would consider around 5.5/10 and they work really well. Based on how you like to ride, I’d say you would appreciate board feel too – the Malavitas have very good board feel. The Force (6/10 flex) and Atlas (6.5/10 flex) would definitely work on the Standard too. They have decent board feel too. Not quite to the same degree as the Malavita, IMO, but still decent.

          I haven’t tested the Cartel X yet, unfortunately (tried to get my hands on a pair in the winter, but unfortunately couldn’t), so I can’t really say there. If they’re similar in terms of flex as the Genesis X was, then I would say they’d work too. Then they’d be around that 7/10 flex. It would depend if you wanted to go that stiff, but I would certainly ride that level of flex on the Standard, but not much stiffer, personally. But it’s really hard to say how stiff the Cartel X actually are – Burton rate their bindings either Stiff or Medium – and don’t have a scale showing anything in between, unfortunately. They have the Cartel (non-x model) listed as stiff and the Cartel X listed as stiff, but it’s very unlikely they are the same (and the Cartel feels like a 6/10 to me). So at a guess I’d say they’re similar in flex to what the Genesis X were, but can’t be sure.

          Reply

32. Jeremy Van Leeuwen says

    September 16, 2020 at 7:21 pm

    Hey Nate ! Love the site ! Best profiling and comment response on the internet! I am finally ready to make a new purchase. Been 10 years riding a 163 NS Heritage with Rome 390 Boss bindings and DC double Boa boots. . Loved the set up but it is time. I am a 6/7 on your scale. Don’t venture into park anymore and ride a lot off on and off piste groomers and trees. Love to ride hard, fast and hit natural rollers and hips. I am always chasing the powder and get 1/2 days a year where I make the midnight run to get some fresh snow in Mammoth. I don’t ride switch often. I also have 3 little kids so spend a lot of time with them on mountain now. Looking for some advice on a whole new set up. Not too concerned on price since I will make it last. Thanks again!
    5’’11- 195

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 17, 2020 at 9:56 am

      Hi Jeremy

      Thanks for your message.

      The first half of your post made me think maybe a freeride board, but then you mentioned your kids, so you’ll want something that you can ride slow as well I assume. So an all-mountain board is a good way to go, I think, so you get that balance between being able to bomb and being able to ride slow with your kids. Could also look at a more easy going freeride option, if you wanted something more directional. More on that later.

      I think all of the One LF, Team Gullwing, Mountain Twin and Standard would suit your purposes well. In terms of sizing, if you wanted my sizing opinion, if you could just let me know your boot size as well. If you already have a size in mind all good too.

      If you wanted to go a little more directional, but still have something you can still ride slow (without it feeling like a bit of a tank), you could also look at the likes of:

      – YES Hybrid
      – Burton Skeleton Key
      – Capita Navigator
      – Lib Tech Dynamo
      – GNU Hyperkyarve
      – Burton Family Tree Hometown Hero

      For some of those it will depend on sizing, but those are some other options, if you wanted to look at something more directional but without going too stiff/aggressive.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jeremy Van Leeuwen says

        September 22, 2020 at 9:14 am

        Thanks Nate! I couldn’t find this reply until now. Appreciate all the feedback. I wear a 10.5. Where would you put the Heritage board related to type of board ?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          September 22, 2020 at 11:04 am

          Hi Jeremy

          In terms of the Heritage, I would consider it all-mountain. It’s a little stiffer than most here (I would consider it a 7/10 flex), but a more easy going camber profile. So it’s kind of the stiffness that I would typically put in the aggressive all-mountain category, but the camber profile isn’t aggressive enough for that. Everything I’ve mentioned is around a 6/10 flex. So that’s something to consider. I was thinking a touch softer flexing, taking riding with the kids into account, but if you didn’t want to go softer, could look at some options more around that 7/10 flex range.

          Thanks for the boot size.

          I would be looking at something around 160-162 for your specs. Pretty similar to what you have now. Given that it sounds like you like to bomb, I wouldn’t go too much shorter than what you’re riding, for your specs, but you could go a little shorter if you wanted to, particularly if you’re looking for something a little easier to manage when at slower speeds with the kids. But because you still want to bomb, I wouldn’t go too much shorter.

          With a 10.5 boot size, it will depend on the particular board. But in most cases I would say a regular width, in that 160-162 length range would be fine. But if you’re looking for sizing on a particular board, I would be happy to give my opinion.

          Reply

          • Jeremy Van Leeuwen says

            September 22, 2020 at 6:05 pm

            Thanks Nate
            As I looked at the boards you recommended I did feel like they were a less flex then the Heritage. I really appreciate the info on the heritage. Gives me a better idea of what I was riding. I would like to see what other recommendations you would have at the 7 flex. Counting on kids only getting better !

          • Nate says

            September 23, 2020 at 10:49 am

            Hi Jeremy

            I would check out the following:

            >> My Top 10 Freeride Snowboards

            Some good options in there around that 7/10 flex range, and that would suit everything you’re describing. I just updated that list for 2021. I would particularly look at the Capita Kazu Kokubo Pro, Burton Flight Attendant, Jones Flagship, Never Summer Westbound and YES PYL. Because they are all decent with jumps and good in trees as well. Looking at your original post, those are things that you’re looking for, in addition to being able to charge and carve. Check out the details and score breakdowns on those, to see which might sound more appealing to you. You can find “see full review links” for each of them on that post, if you want more details.

    • Jeremy Van Leeuwen says

      September 23, 2020 at 10:02 pm

      The YEs PYL And Captita boards sound fun and I like to try something different then NS but I really loved the Heritage. Say some of the 2019/20 for sale around 400$ What would you recommend on size with 10.5 boot. Also any recommendations on bindings/boots ? Thanks again.

      Reply

      • Nate says

        September 24, 2020 at 12:25 pm

        Hi Jeremy

        For those boards I would go with the following sizes:

        – PYL – 162 or 160W – the 160W isn’t that wide for a wide board, so if you wanted to go a little shorter, but a little wider. But the 162 would work too – but if you wanted more leeway width-wise, for big carves but didn’t want to go too wide, the 160W works
        – West Bound – 160 – should be wide enough for 10.5s. The 161X is probably getting a bit too wide. The 163 also an option, particularly given that’s what you currently ride, but I would be leaning towards the 160
        – Flagship – 161 – this board is wider at the inserts than it sounds by the waist width, I think the 161 would be fine width-wise
        – FA – 162 or 159W – again. Like the PYL, the 162 should be wide enough, and a good length for you, but if you were wanting to go shorter/wider, the 159W would work – and it’s not ultra wide either for a wide board (just a little wider than the 160W PYL at the inserts).
        – Kazu – 160 – again should be wide enough. It’s on the narrower side overall for your boots, but should be good.

        Reply

33. Chris says

    September 3, 2020 at 8:22 am

    Hey Nate. Just moved out to Utah from east coast this past February. Currently riding a Rossignol AmpTek. Was mainly an east coast rider. I am in my 40’s 6′ 210 with a size 12 boot. I’m probably close to a 6 on your skill level guide. I don’t really park, as that is for my kids.
    Mainly ride at Brighton and Snowbird. Looking for something that is going to fit the Utah snow better. Have been researching the MTN twin, Custom/Process, and more. The Terrain Wrecker and K2 Broadcast come up on my search within your site.
    What are your thoughts? I’m not worried about cost really.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 3, 2020 at 11:36 am

      Hi Chris

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the Mountain Twin is a always a pretty safe bet. Good in a variety of conditions and for a variety of styles. Just good across the board. The Custom Flying V would be a good option, so long as you’re not looking at riding in too many icy conditions. Like if you go back East for a trip or something. The Process Flying V you might find a bit soft flexing if you’re not going to be using it in the park and for your size. My instinct for your riding style that you’ll likely find it too soft. There’s the Custom camber as well, which I think would work for most things, but if you’re looking to ride powder, that’s probably the biggest weakness of the Custom camber.

      I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker yet (been trying to since it came out – just one of those boards that somehow keeps alluding me!) but on paper, I think it would work.

      I also haven’t ridden the Broadcast, but on paper it could work, if you’re looking for something a little more freeride oriented.

      But yeah, can’t go wrong with something like the Mountain Twin, IMO. But you could also check out some freeride options (see link below). If you wanted to go a little softer but still quite directional, I am also in the process of creating a “surfy freeride” list, which will basically be softer flexing freeride boards.

      >> My Top 10 Freeride Snowboards

      Just to get a bit better of an idea – how would you describe your style. Would say you like to really bomb? Carve aggressively (like elbows deep)? Search for powder? Ride trees? Ride switch at all? Side hits at all? Anything to describe how you typically ride would help in choosing the most appropriate board.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Chris says

        September 3, 2020 at 2:00 pm

        Thanks for the reply Nate. I would say I’m more of a goof off / have fun rider, especially as I get older. I enjoy the trees, just cruising around, and the occasional race down the slope with my son. I’m mainly directional, but ride switch a little mainly when I’m navigating trees and other riders. Side hits are always fun.
        I haven’t hunted for powder much as I just moved out here in Feb and sadly our season was cut short, but I hope to find a little this coming season.
        If I go back east, I’ll just take my Rossi. I also have my step-ons arriving soon for the new ride.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          September 4, 2020 at 11:50 am

          Hi Chris

          Thanks for the extra details. Sounds like an all-mountain board with something around a mid-flex would be a good fit for you. Versatile enough to ride a little switch when you need and for side-hits, but predominantly for riding in one direction – and not too soft, but not too stiff, so that you’ve got something that won’t be so soft that it’s unstable when you do ride at speed, but not so stiff that you can’t just cruise and take it easy on it. So, definitely in the right place on this list, IMO, and most here would suit what you’re describing. I would be leaning towards the Mountain Twin, Custom Flying V or Terrain Wrecker rather than the Broadcast from what you’re describing.

          Reply

      • Chris says

        September 3, 2020 at 2:20 pm

        Nate, I also thought I’d ask if you think I’d feel a difference (or if its even a good idea at my size) of dropping to a 158W vs. the 162W I have been riding.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          September 4, 2020 at 11:58 am

          Hi Chris

          You’d certainly notice a difference. A 158W vs a 162W (all else being equal) will:

          – Feel less stable at speed
          – Not float as well in powder
          – Feel more playful
          – Be more buttery
          – Be more maneuverable at slower speeds (and usually better in trees)
          – Not be as suitable for big carves, but better for shorter sharper turns

          For your specs and how you describe you’re riding, I think something around 160W, 161W would be your best bet. If you were a more aggressive rider then more like 163W, 164W. 158W might be getting a little small. Would depend somewhat on the board, but it’s on the smaller side for you for sure. If you were happy to sacrifice a little stability at speed and want something that felt really playful, then it’s doable, but I would be looking more like 160W, 161W for you as a good size. Note that if you’re on a size significantly shorter, the flex will feel softer (and visa versa if you go significantly longer, it will feel stiffer). So, for example, if you were to ride the 158W Mountain Twin, you would be probably feel the flex a bit softer than the 6/10 I felt riding the 157. Something to keep in mind.

          Reply

34. Craige says

    August 21, 2020 at 11:49 pm

    Hey Nate
    Currently in the market for a new a board.
    Bit of deets
    -Riding a 2014 156 Ride agenda (flat rocker tip)
    -180cm tall, 86 kg
    -about a 6 on your skill level guide

    I don’t ride park, mainly stick to the groomers but started venturing off piste for more technical/steeper/maneuvarable riding (not on the hunt for knee deep powder though, just a bit of a slower paced challenge when not sending it down the groomers).

    I want a bit of a jack of all trades- all mountain, directional, capable of holding a carve/bomb but still fairly nimble as the snow in aus can get moguly real quick, but never had anything other than the flat rocker agenda. So not too familiar with camber and rocker. I figure from copious amounts of information download that Camber in the middle and rocker underfoot-camroc- is a pretty good catch free experience.

    Because i’m not a park rat, I avoid hectic jumps, but wouldn’t mind still being able to perfect a butter and pop a 180 off the side of a groomed trail every now and then.

    At the moment im looking for some advice on what you think would be a good fit (in order of current appeal) …
    -Jones mountain twin
    -Salomon assassin
    -Ride Wildlife
    -Something YES

    If you got any other major recommendations, hit me with them, I am open minded!

    After a full kit upgrade, so if you have any bindings to tie in with your recommendation let me know! Cheers mate!

    Reply

    • Craige says

      August 22, 2020 at 12:07 am

      Should note that my typical riding consists of carving, fast riding, and 3/4 of the time on piste! Happy to look at medium-medium stiff boards in order to feel a bit more stable and hold an edge!

      Reply

      • Nate says

        August 23, 2020 at 10:15 am

        Hi Craige

        Thanks for your messages.

        I think you’re definitely on the right track with that list, from what you’re describing. The Assassin is a little more freestyle focused. Would still certainly do the job, but if you’re mainly going to be bombing on piste, you could probably go a little more directional.

        But the likes of the YES Standard, Mountain Twin and Wild Life would all work. Probably from what you’re describing, the Mountain Twin and Standard would be what I’d go with over the Wild Life. Even though the Wild Life is a little more directional, I get the feeling you want something a little more aggressive. The Wild Life is quite easy going. The Mountain Twin and Standard definitely aren’t super aggressive either, but just a little more so, IMO.

        If you wanted to go even more aggressive, then you could look at something like one of the following:

        >>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards

        But if you wanted to keep things a little more easy going, stick to around that medium flex, then Standard/Mountain Twin are a good way to go or you could look at the Capita Mercury.

        The other way to go is if you wanted to go a little more directional again, you could look at:

        >> My Top 10 Freeride Snowboards

        Less versatile for the likes of riding switch, more freestyle stuff, but good for bombing, carving, powder.

        Hope this helps

        Reply

        • craige says

          August 23, 2020 at 11:09 pm

          Thanks Nate! Love the effort you put into your work mate.
          Been looking alot at the mountain twin, so good to hear its on your list for my style. Binding wise was thinking burton malavita or union force? you reckon thatd make a pretty good combination fit for purpose or something else?

          Reply

          • Nate says

            August 24, 2020 at 10:33 am

            Hi Craige

            Malavita and Force would certainly do the job. I would be leaning towards the Force, just because it’s got a tad more drive to it and since you’re 3/4 time carving/bombing, I think that would be just a little more suitable, but Malavita would certainly work. I think ideally you want to look at something around 6/10 flex or even 7/10 flex, as a good match with the Mountain Twin and how you describe your riding. So yeah, I would go Force out of those 2, but both would work. For other potentials also check out:

            >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

            >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

35. Paul C says

    July 27, 2020 at 9:15 am

    Hi Nate

    Not sure if you’re still hitting the comments on this page but your responses to people’s queries are great so here I am.

    I have snowboarded a little over the past 10 years. I’d say I’m at an intermediate 5.

    I just rented a Burton Custom Camber for a long weekend and I felt pretty good on this board. I’m starting to try small jumps and I’m catching edges a bit.

    I was planning on buying this board but they didn’t have my size and I talked myself into grabbing the 162w Custom Flying V instead. I’m 6’3, 200 pounds with an 11.5 boot.

    I’m keen to progress my skill level with some more jumps, carving and butters etc. Yet to unwrap the new board so I’m still wondering if I should switch it for something else. I don’t ride much powder at the moment but would be good to have the option if we can ever travel again! What do you think?

    I’m also going to pick up some boots and bindings so any recommendations on those would be great as well.

    Thanks heaps mate!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      July 29, 2020 at 1:42 pm

      Hi Paul

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, size-wise, I think you’re bang on there for your specs/level, for that board.

      In terms of whether it’s a suitable board for you, I couldn’t say for sure, but here are some things that might help you to decide.

      – The Flying V is, versus the camber version, a looser feel. Some prefer this some don’t.
      – The Flying V is better in powder than the camber version for sure
      – The Flying V is a little more buttery
      – You’re a good bit less likely to catch edges on the Flying V version
      – The camber version is a good bit better for carving
      – The camber version is a good bit more stable when riding fast
      – The camber version has a bit more pop but the flying v version’s pop is a little easier to extract. The camber is more of a stomper on landings, but a little less forgiving of errors on landings. The Flying v is a little more maneuverable overall and that can be nice for side hits. Overall they’re both good for jumps, IMO, but a different feel for jumps.

      So yeah, they’re both quite different feeling boards, despite sharing a name and the same core, dimensions and everything. That camber profile does make a pretty big difference.

      If you were looking for something a little more camber dominant than the Flying V but not necessarily full camber like the Custom Camber, there are definitely options there. A lot that will be in a lot of ways between those two boards. This list has plenty. If you were wanting that camber between the feet kind of feel, then the Standard, Mountain Twin and Rossi One LF all represent boards, I would say are in between those two in a lot of ways – i.e. better at carving and speed vs the Custom Flying V but better in terms of powder vs the Custom Camber.

      For more details on the relative strengths and weaknesses in the boards on this list, check out the score breakdowns and for further detail the full reviews, if you were going to change the Custom Flying V. Definitely not to say it’s not for you, but hopefully the things above help to make your decision.

      Reply

      • Paul C says

        July 30, 2020 at 1:09 am

        Thanks Nate! Love your reviews and appreciate the advice!

        I’m just going to have to ride the Flying V and make a call. Maybe save the camber for when I’ve progressed a bit. Standard looks like a good choice.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          July 31, 2020 at 1:46 pm

          You’re very welcome Paul. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on with the Flying V.

          Reply

36. John Snow says

    June 11, 2020 at 3:22 am

    Hi Nate!
    Love your stuff, and always appreciate your infomrative answers to all of us asking for guidance! 🙂
    Been looking for a new board, first one, an all-mountain board leaning more towards the freeride side so it’ll be able to carve hard, charge, feel nimble edge to edge and pop (my top 4 properties) but still somewhat butterable with good maneuverablity at slower speeds as well..
    Looking for a quiver of one of course, i do have big feet, 11.5 so have to take this into consideration unfortunately.. would really appreciate your feedback and insights on my future purchase.
    Thanks for providing us such detailed and amazing reviews!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      June 11, 2020 at 10:12 am

      Hi John

      Thanks for your message.

      I think you’re in the right place, if you’re looking for all those things. If it was just the first 4, without the need for butterability and maneuverability at slow speeds, I would have said look at aggressive all-mountain boards or freeride boards, but given you want that, then I think you’re in the right place. Though there are some alternatives you could look at, which I’ll get to.

      From this list, I would say the Mercury, but not quite wide enough for your boot size. After that I think the Standard, Mountain Twin, Team Gullwing and One LF all fit the bill.

      But if you wanted something that gave you just a bit more in terms of carving, like the Mercury, but isn’t too bad at slower speeds either, and you weren’t too worried about performance in powder, then you could also consider something like:

      – Nitro Team Camber
      – Burton Custom Camber

      They’re what I consider aggressive all-mountain boards, but are a little softer/more nimble than most in that category.

      Or if you’re looking for something with a bit more powder performance, then the

      – Jones Frontier
      – Burton Skeleton Key
      – Burton Hometown Hero
      – YES Hybrid

      Are also good options.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

37. Kon says

    April 28, 2020 at 1:30 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thank you for all the amazing information you provide!

    I hoping you could help me decide on a new setup. It would actually be the first board I own. I’ve been using loaners up until now but I think getting my own board will help me progress.

    Some background info on me.
    Height: 6′
    Weight: 160-165 lbs
    Boot size: US 9.5 (could vary depending on the brand from 9 – 10)
    Skill: Intermediate 5 based on your chart and hoping to progress further next season.
    Style: All Mountain for now but would like to get into more Freeriding as I get better.

    I spend most of my time on groomers and really enjoy carving down blues/reds. I can handle blacks but it still needs more work. I live in the east coast with lots of hard/icy snow days but will venture out west when I can to get some time in powder.

    I’m looking for an one board quiver that can handle the hard/icy conditions and powder whenever it presents itself. I don’t see myself going to the park much but being able to do some butters and spins would be cool. After reading through your reviews, I’ve narrow down my search to the Yes Standard and Rossignol One LF. I’m torn between the Standard 153 or 156 and the One LF 156 or 159. Which would you recommend?

    As far as the bindings, I was thinking about going with either the Burton Cartel M or Burton Genisis X M. Would either of those go well with the two boards I mentioned?

    I look forward to your response!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      April 28, 2020 at 2:23 pm

      Hi Kon

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, yeah definitely good for progress to have the same board under your feet for that consistency.

      From what you’re describing the Standard and One LF are definitely good options. There are others too, but those would definitely suit your description very well, IMO.

      Size-wise, it’s close between those sizes, but for your specs, I would be leaning towards the 156 for the One LF. You could ride the 159, but I think 156 would be the slightly better choice for your specs.

      For the Standard it’s a tougher choice. I would probably be just leaning towards the 153, but the 156 is certainly doable.

      Both the Cartel and Genesis X would match well with both these boards. The Cartel is probably a more pure match, in terms of flex. But if you wanted something to drive the board a little harder the Genesis X would do that. They’re stiffer but not so stiff that they would cause the board to feel too twitchy or anything.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Kon says

        April 28, 2020 at 5:28 pm

        Thank you very much Nate! You are the man!

        I will go with the One LF 156cm with the Genesis X bindings. It seems like the Standard is sold out in my sizes for this season.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          April 29, 2020 at 12:42 pm

          You’re very welcome Kon. Hope the setup treats you well!

          Reply

38. Juan says

    March 3, 2020 at 7:47 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks a lot for all the advice… I’m definitely sold on the Yes Standard… Intermediate-advanced level and I’m 6′-2″, 185 lbs, 10.5 boots… I want an all-mountain but more on the aggressive side (charging, powder and occasionally trees), not interested in park. What length would you recommend?.

    Thanks in advance and please keep going this fantastic site!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2020 at 2:09 pm

      Hi Juan

      Thanks for your message.

      It’s a weigh up between the 156 and 159 for you. But I would be leaning towards the 159, just because you’re not really doing anything freestyle and you ride on the more aggressive side. The fact you ride trees too, leans it back a little towards 156, but if that’s only occasionally and for the most part you want to optimize carving, charging and powder, then I think I would be leaning towards 159 for you.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

39. Aaron says

    March 2, 2020 at 11:28 am

    Hey Nate, thanks for the insightful writeup

    I’ve been snowboarding about 6 times within 4 seasons, and the most recent trip I was able to link turns.

    I’m currently using my friend’s 2011 K2 Dark Star, which was the board I used in my most recent trip. I was spraying snow more than catching an edge during my turns however, so that leads me to wanting to buy a board for me to progress on consistently.

    Using your length and width guide, my true all mountain length is 154cm. subtracting 3 to 5 cm as a beginner leaves me with a range of 149 – 151 cm, with a width of normal at 240-250 (my boot size is 8.0, maybe a 7.5 depending on how much my boot packs out)

    I’m not so sure I want a very soft board however, as I believe I’m on the brink of entering intermediate land, so a 4 to 5 flex seems attractive to me (correct me if I’m wrong).

    From what I’m reading, I’m looking for an all-mountain/hybrid camber/ true twin board.

    You mentioned that true twins are easier to learn on due to a centered stance, so I’m hesitant to even touch directional boards.

    I don’t see myself doing any tricks until I’m a true intermediate, learning to possibly butter, so I’m not really looking into any free style boards.

    From some interweb digging I have heard of the YES Typo, Never Summer Proto Type Two, Capita DOA, K2 Raygun.

    How do you feel about the constraints/conclusions I’ve reached, and what boards do you recommend from that? (Length as well)

    Thanks for reading this comment Nate and I appreciate your content 🙂

    Reply

    • Aaron says

      March 2, 2020 at 11:33 am

      5’7 150 – 155 lbs, forgot to provide that detail.

      Reply

    • Nate says

      March 3, 2020 at 10:57 am

      Hi Aaron

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, I wouldn’t be too worried about going directional, especially if it’s just a little directional. It’s a factor, but a much lesser factor to flex and camber profile, when it comes to learning and progressing. So I wouldn’t be completely tied to true twins, necessarily. Probably don’t want to go on a highly directional tapered board or anything like that, but a little setback or a nose that’s slightly longer than the tail is absolutely fine, unless you’re really keen to get your switch riding dialed from the beginning (which is a legit reason to want to go true twin, so if that’s you’re thinking then all good, but just don’t want you to avoid directional twins or the likes fullstop).

      From your list, the Typo is the best option, IMO, as a high-end beginner. The DOA isn’t that beginner friendly, IMO and the PT2 isn’t really either – maybe a little more so than the DOA, but still not ideal in that sense. The Raygun would certainly work though. It’s a flat-to-rocker profile, rather than a hybrid camber (like the Typo and DOA) or hybrid rocker (like the PT2), which isn’t necessarily a bad thing in itself, but just because you mentioned you were wanting a hybrid camber.

      For more high-end beginner going on intermediate options check out:

      >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

      That list was created specifically for those looking for a board that’s still good to learn on, but can take them further into their progression than a beginner, beginner board can. It’s made for those who are high-end beginner, going on intermediate. You’ll see the Typo in there as well as other really good options. Since you don’t want to look at freestyle boards, I think the following would work well form that list, in addition to the Typo:

      – Never Summer Snowtrooper
      – Capita Outerspace Living
      – YES Libre
      – Burton Process Flying V
      – Arbor Element Black Rocker
      – Rossignol Templar
      – Ride Wildlife

      So plenty of good options in there, IMO.

      Size-wise, I think you’ve worked it out well from your specs. I think something 149-152 is a good bet, depending on the board. If you narrow down your options to 2-3 boards, I would be happy to give size recommendations for each board.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

40. Kyle says

    February 24, 2020 at 10:16 am

    Hi Nate,

    I’m still pretty new to snowboarding but ive definitely developed a love for the sport and plan on doing it as long as I can. I have been renting boards everytime I go but I would really like to own a board so I’m trying to learn and adapt to a new board every time. I was looking for an all mountain board that leaned a little more towards park. I’ve ridden a couple Never Summer boards but one of them stood out to me and was just a really fun ride. I felt like I could really control the board when going down blues and blacks but it also had a great pop to it while hitting park which I loved. I know I’m being pretty vague as to what board it was but I havent been able to find the exact board. All I know is that it was a blue and white 149cm Never Summer. I was hoping to be able to describe it enough for a recommendation on what board I should look into trying/getting.

    Height: 5’8″
    Weight: 160lbs
    Shoe: 11

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 25, 2020 at 11:20 am

      Hi Kyle

      Thanks for your message.

      The most likely board it would have been from what I can tell is the Never Summer Funslinger. It comes in a 149 and the 2017, 2018 & 2019 models all had blue and white. And it fits the description that you’re talking about. Couldn’t say for sure, but that’s the most likely I think. Do you know what year the board was?

      The Funslinger is a freestyle focused board for sure, but can handle the rest of the mountain fine too. Not amazing for deep powder, but can handle moderate powder OK.

      Size-wise, unless you’re really keen to emulate that exact board, I would go a little longer than 149 for your specs. Especially when you’re riding faster and carving lower, I think you’ll notice the lack of length in a 149 – and it’s probably going to be too narrow for 11s, if you are carving higher on the edge. I would say go 154X. If you really wanted it shorter, the 153 or 151 could be doable, but they’re likely too narrow for your shoe/boot size. So I think the 154X for the Funslinger is your best bet.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

41. Gustavo says

    February 20, 2020 at 4:58 pm

    Hey Nate! You were definitely right when you said to buy Rossignol One LF… I bought the “custom flying V” and I didn’t like it! It is not a good deck for speed and bad for ice! How about app “ski tracks”, do you use it? Mine has a difference of 15/20% less than my friends who do the same ride.

    Gustavo

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 21, 2020 at 3:20 pm

      Hi Gustavo

      I used to use the Ski Tracks app, but haven’t in a while. I found it quite unreliable. Every now and then it would throw out an unrealistic speed, so I kind of lost trust in it.

      Reply

42. Mike says

    February 18, 2020 at 7:56 am

    Hey Nate,

    Recently stumbled onto your site and love the level off detail you put into your reviews! Hoping to get your input on a board purchase, please?

    • 37 years old, 5 foot 8, about 180 to 190 lbs with a boot size of 11.5.
    • Intermediate rider, good on greens and blues, but still a little sketchy on blacks and steeper descents (I can make it down but don’t feel all that stable).
    • I ride groomers with the wife and kids every weekend and do an annual trip to Mont-Tremblant in Qc Canada. I live in the east coast, so no real powder to speak of.
    • I’ve been riding consistently (weekly) since 2017. Rode before 2017 as well but very, very rarely (once or twice a season sometimes none)…
    • I currently own a 2018 skate banana 159W (my previous board was an old Lamar I bought off a friend in college and never changed the setup or anything)

    I’d like to get a board that would suit an intermediate rider wanting to improve. I think the rocker profile of my skate banana is making me feel unstable.

    Ideally I would want an all mountain board that’s stable at decent speeds (50ish KPH), but also able to slow down and enjoy an easy ride down mellow runs with the family without feeling like the board just wants to bomb…

    Aside from riding groomers, wold like to be able to hit some smaller jumps on the side of groomed runs but no interest in riding park. I don’t / can’t ride switch and am fine with simply riding regular.

    With the research I’ve done online the Jones frontier looks to be a good fit. I tested a Capita Mercury last weekend and found it to be too aggressive. The stance was set up too wide for me, so that definitely played into my lack of control with that board (ride at 21 inches, but the mercury was set up at 22.5). Never the less the mercury was too aggressive. I tried the DOA after that and it felt much better. Where would you put the frontier between these 2? Any other options I should be looking at that would be a better choice than the frontier?

    Thank you for any input you may have.
    Mike

    Reply

    • Mike says

      February 18, 2020 at 8:32 am

      Based on the your skill level chart, I’d be an intermediate 5.

      Reply

      • Nate says

        February 19, 2020 at 4:28 pm

        Hi Mike

        Thanks for your message.

        Yeah certainly not surprised with the lack of stability at speed you’re getting on the Skate Banana. It’s a rather loose feeling board that’s more suited to freestyle riding, IMO, and not that stable at speed.

        I think you’re in the right place with this list, and the Frontier is certainly also an option. Although, I would say that it’s fairly similar in terms of aggressiveness to the Mercury, in my experience. The Mercury is probably the most aggressive on this particular list, along with the Niche Story. I think you wouldn’t find the Frontier that much less aggressive. In terms of most playful to most aggressive from this list, I would say the following:

        – Yes Typo
        – Slash Brainstorm
        – Burton Custom Flying V
        – Arbor Bryan Iguchi Pro Rocker
        – Rossignol One
        – Nitro Team Gullwing
        – YES Standard
        – Jones Mountain Twin
        – Capita Mercury
        – Niche Story

        And I’d say that the Frontier would fit somewhere between the Mountain Twin and Mercury.

        Also note that everything on this list is, IMO, less playful/not as loose as the Skate Banana, so even going for something like the Typo or Brainstorm is going to feel more stable vs the Skate Banana.

        So, based on your experience with the Mercury, I would be looking at Standard through to Typo on the above list, in order to get something that won’t find too aggressive.

        Size-wise, I think something around that 156W to 159W range would work well for you. Note for the YES Standard that it doesn’t come in wide sizes, but it’s already wide enough for 11.5s, IMO, in both the 156 and 159.

        Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

        Reply

        • Mike says

          February 20, 2020 at 7:48 am

          Hey Nate,

          Thank you for the insight. I’m a little worried now that you mentioned the frontier being similar to the the mercury in regards to aggressiveness. I did find the mercury pretty stiff, but it’s hard to know as my stance was set up to wide, but i did find that board to be ridiculously fast.

          After reading your input i think the yes standard would fit my style much better. I don’t bomb down runs and am looking for stability at speed, but also want to be able to slow down and ride smooth with the wife and kids.

          Thank you again for the input, it definitely helps

          Reply

          • Nate says

            February 21, 2020 at 2:38 pm

            You’re very welcome Mike. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve made the final call and had a chance to get it out on snow.

          • Mike says

            March 9, 2020 at 11:20 am

            Hey Nate,

            You were right on about the standard. I ended up buying the Yes standard in 159 and used it all last week in mont tremblant. Was a fantastic ride and I love the shape of it as well.

            Enjoyed it so much decided to upgrade my 2018 k2 formula bindings to union strata’s as well! Will be putting them on the board tonight.

            Thanks again for the insight!

          • Nate says

            March 10, 2020 at 12:13 pm

            Hey Mike

            Thanks for the update, really appreciate it – and awesome that you’re loving your Standard! Would be great to hear how you get on with the Strata/Standard combo.

43. Matt says

    February 6, 2020 at 6:26 pm

    Hey Nate,

    I greatly appreciate the extensive insight you’re throwing out there for everyone! I tried to comb through the reviews to see if anyone asked about a similar situation, but unfortunately, no dice.

    I’m a long time skier who has occasionally dabbled in snowboarding throughout the years, but also wakeboard on a semi-regular basis. I’d like to get an all-mountain board so that I can bring both my skis & a board to swap back and forth on future trips out west.

    After doing a good amount of research, I’m thinking the YES Standard sounds like a good fit. I will mostly be looking for fresh powder & cruising groomers. I regularly dip into the trees with my skis, but not sure I’ll be up for that right off the bat with a new board. I’ll probably hit the occasional jump, but will mostly be riding regular footing.

    I’m 35 years old, 6″3″, 200 lbs, with a size 13 shoe. Thoughts?

    If you think the Standard is a good fit, any suggestions on the 162 vs 167? Care to give me your .02 on the ideal set-up in terms of boot & binding combo. Don’t mind spending the money on quality stuff it it will last me a long time.

    Thanks again for your insight!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 7, 2020 at 3:37 pm

      Hi Matt

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the Standard could work well for what you’re describing. It’s good enough in powder – but also something you can cruise the groomers on and not overly aggressive/technical.

      Size-wise, I think the 162 would be a good bet for you. You could ride 167, but I think that’s going to feel like a lot of board, especially if you’re not at an advanced/expert level. I think 162 for your specs/what you’re describing would work best – and once you do start getting into the trees, you’ll appreciate that size more too.

      In terms of pairing with bindings and boots. I would be looking at something around a 6/10 or 7/10 in terms of flex. As an intermediate rider (correct me if that’s inaccurate, but that’s the impression I get from your comments), I would be leaning towards 6/10 flex – and that’s about what the board feels like too. For some great options in that flex range, check out:

      >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

      >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

      >>My Top All Mountain (medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Matt says

        February 8, 2020 at 8:36 am

        Hey Nate,

        I greatly appreciate the insight and timely response. Keep up the great work!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 8, 2020 at 1:29 pm

          You’re very welcome Matt. Happy riding!

          Reply

44. Jo says

    January 31, 2020 at 4:35 am

    Hi Nate,

    First off, love the site and the detailed reviews.

    I am looking for some advice for buying my first snowboard but couldn’t decide from all the options. I want an all mountain board that doesn’t fall down in any one type of riding. Being able to ride some switch would also be a bonus. I considered the Yes Standard 156 but I feel like it might be a bit too wide for my foot size. Could you suggest something more appropriate?

    Height: 5′ 11″ (180 cm)
    Weight: 180-185 lb (81-84 kg)
    Build: athletic
    Shoe size: Mens 9 US (~26.5 mm)
    Skill: intermediate level 5-6 on your scale (but learning fast!)

    Up to now I was mostly riding a Burton Process 2018 with Cartel bindings and felt comfortable with the traditional camber but I’m happy to try something more well rounded.

    Cheers!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 31, 2020 at 1:51 pm

      Hi Jo

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah, I would be a little concerned with the width of the Standard 156 with 9s too. And for your specs, I wouldn’t want to size down any more than that.

      Since you’ve gotten on well with camber, I would be looking at a hybrid camber – it feels more like camber than hybrid rocker, but it has less consequence and has some other advantages, like being better in powder, and typically easier to butter.

      With that in mind, I think the Capita Mercury, Rossignol One LF, Slash Brainstorm or YES Typo would work.

      The Mercury isn’t as wide as it looks, but still a little wider, so you could size down a little on that. Given that you’re athletic and progressing quickly, I think the following would be appropriate sizes for each.

      – Mercury: 157
      – Rossi One: 159
      – Slash Brainstorm: 160
      – YES Typo: 161 – though if you didn’t want to go that long you could go 158 too

      All these boards are quite different, but check out the score breakdown’s under each to see which might suit your riding the most.

      In terms of feel of the boards, I would say most aggressive to least aggressive would be:

      – Mercury
      – Rossignol One
      – YES Typo/Slash Brainstorm

      If you weren’t really riding powder, you could also look at some all-mountain-freestyle options. But if you do ride powder, then these would be really good options for what you’re describing, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Jo says

        January 31, 2020 at 5:42 pm

        Thanks Nate I really appreciate your advice!

        Out of those suggestions I’m leaning towards the Capita Mercury 157 but it’s difficult to find locally. How does this compare to the Jones Mountain Twin 157?

        Some of the more freestyle boards I can get a hold of are the Yes Jackpot 156 and Endeavour Pioneer 158. What do you think about those?

        I don’t get much powder at my local resort but I’ll definitely do some powder riding when I go elsewhere.

        Thanks again for all your help!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 3, 2020 at 12:43 pm

          Hi Jo

          Completely missed the Mountain Twin off that list – but definitely a good hybrid camber option too. I would say from my list before of most to least aggressive that the Mountain Twin would fall:

          – Mercury
          – Mountain Twin
          – Rossignol One
          – YES Typo/Slash Brainstorm

          Certainly not the same board as the Mercury, but definitely an option for what you’re describing. You could go 157, or you could go 160.

          I rate both the Jackpot and Pioneer. They both made my top 10 freestyle boards:

          >>My Top 10 Men’s Freestyle Snowboards

          Whilst both are good over the whole mountain, as well as being freestyle oriented, their biggest downside is powder, IMO – and not quite up there in terms of carving/speed as the likes of the Mercury or MT. Doable, if you wanted something more freestyle oriented and were willing to sacrifice a little in terms of those things.

          Reply

45. Matt Snare says

    January 23, 2020 at 2:33 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Amazing tips mate – very informative and quick turns on answers! Super sharp.

    I am 5’10 and around 160 pounds. Size 10 boots. Always hard to rate yourself but I think I would be a 6 on your skill chart I have been riding every winter in Ontario, Canada for around 15+ years. Looking for a new All Mountain board ideal predominately for groomed blue and black runs but also one that can perform during the annual trip out West in whatever powder presents itself. I am starting to push myself a little more off the beaten path. Ontario can be icy of course and so I definitely want stability and edge control and performance on uneven terrain (especially with speed). I very rarely hit the park (the odd box to two) but no need to worry about that given I am 46 and need to stay in good shape for my three kids 🙂

    My existing board is super old – a RIDE Control board – 158. I was still learning when I got it but I definitely like the stability and length – especially when doing aggressive carving. I have tried shorter boards and understand their specific purpose etc but I feel less comfortable. Anything around 157, 158 and maybe 159 seems to suit me.

    After reading a few reviews I feel some of the boards I should consider (in no specific order) include: Burton Custom Flying V, Capita Mercury, Yes TYPO or YES Standard.

    Any advice / thoughts which one I should lean to? Other better options?

    Thanks mate

    Matt

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 24, 2020 at 1:43 pm

      Hi Matt

      Thanks for your message.

      I would be leaning towards the Standard and Mercury of those 4, for what you’re describing. The Custom Flying V, and the flying V shape in general, I haven’t found to be that good in hard/icy conditions – so that’s the biggest reason I wouldn’t go there for you. The Typo is doable, but I think based on what you’re describing, something with a bit more in terms of speed and carving might suit you better.

      The Standard is very good in hard/icy conditions, in my experience – and it’s decent in powder. Better in powder when you use the slam back inserts, which you could do on your trips out west, if you get powder days. All round a good option.

      Not as good in hard/icy conditions, but still OK, the Mercury is another one that will give you more for speed & carving vs the likes of the Typo. And you’re talking a good step up in terms of stiffness. The Typo I would rate around 4.5/10 for stiffness and the Mercury 6.5/10 (the Standard 6/10). I think for how you want to ride a little bit more stiffness is a good idea. That said I wouldn’t go too stiff at 160lbs. But around 6/10, 7/10 flex I think would suit.

      The Rossi One, Niche Story (if you wanted to go another step stiffer), Nitro Team Gullwing and Jones Mountain Twin would all also work well for what you’re describing.

      If you were to go Standard, I would go 156. It’s a wider board and sizing down a little is a good idea for it, IMO, depending on boot size. But with 10s and your specs, I would go 156.

      For the Mercury, I think the 157 would be your best bet.

      For the Typo, if you did think you wanted a more easy going option, I would go 158.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Matt says

        January 24, 2020 at 1:58 pm

        Thanks Nate. I will keep you posted on where I land.

        Cheers

        Matt

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 24, 2020 at 2:58 pm

          You’re very welcome Matt. Look forward to hearing which way you go.

          Reply

          • Matt says

            January 25, 2020 at 3:44 pm

            Nate,

            I am moving quickly on the YES standard….any bindings you particularly recommend as a good match? I like the sound of Burton Cartel but am open to any ideas.

            Also I now see my old boots are 10.5 not 10 but figure you still recommend the Standard 156 given my height and weight (closer to 165 pounds right now).

            Cheers

            Matt

          • Nate says

            January 27, 2020 at 1:24 pm

            Hi Matt

            Yeah the Burton Cartel would work well with the Standard, IMO. There are others that work too, but Cartel would be one of my top recommendations for the Standard, so a solid choice there, IMO.

            I would still go 156 for you, even with 10.5s.

          • Matt says

            February 3, 2020 at 8:30 am

            Update. New set-up: YES Standard 156. Burton Cartel bindings. Thirty-Two TM 2 Boots (10.5). Two days of riding complete (Ontario). Day 1: Icy / Hard pack. Day 2: Hard pack with a little fresh powder. Initial observations from an intermediate rider on an old Ride Control 158 (should of upgraded years ago). Day 1: Very smooth ride overall. The 156 is the right size for me. Immediate difference re: buttering. Wow. Ollies and tail presses way easier. Fun. Good over uneven terrain. Felt less comfortable straight lining with top speed down steep sections. Not sure if that was me getting use to a shorter board generally or the new Standard. Bindings gold. Step up from Mission..you can feel the quality difference in the hardware. Boots great in the morning but the heel lock feature made my ankles quite sore in the afternoon. More on the back foot. New boot factor I think. Wore them around the house that night trying to soften them up a bit. Day 2: Felt even better overall. Got more familiar with the board and so quick carves on steep sections felt better. Much better in the small pockets of powder I could find vs the old Ride board. Can’t wait for the West. Boots felt better vs Day 1 but will still need a week or so to break in I guess. No issues on any part of the boot except the heel lock / hold section. Could be me getting use to that specific liner feature as my old Thirty-twos didn’t have it. Not sure if the heat mold able process will help for that specific bit. Love the boot overall – especially the storm shield / outer coating.

            Overall a very happy camper – thanks again Nate. Over and out.

            P.S My advice to other riders. Don’t fall into the trap of riding an old board for too long (ie close to 15 years) just to save money or if it feels comfortable. You could be accidentally missing out on some new adventures.

          • Nate says

            February 4, 2020 at 11:33 am

            Hi Matt

            Thanks for the update/insight. Greatly appreciated. And awesome that you’re loving your new gear!

            32 boots I find really benefit from heat molding, so if you haven’t already, I would heat mold them. Stiffer boots – not that the TM-2 are ultra-stiff, but they’re on the stiffer side of medium, tend to take a little longer to break in too, so they should hopefully come right around the ankle – but I would say that heat molding will help too.

            Happy riding!

46. Mihai says

    January 21, 2020 at 8:03 am

    Hello Nate, you are doing a wonderful job here! kudoz!

    I am looking for a piece of advice: I am 40 yo 220 lbs, size 14,5 (nitro team boots), am currently riding a Ride Wildlife 163W (2016). I am looking for change of gear, intermediate level, I am doing bunny hops on the slope, started carving both sides, can speed up to 75-80 km/h.
    My current conditions of riding are usually groomed and ice runs, seldomly pow-wow (love it, but the conditions here in Romania don’t usually make it dump massive amounts of snow)

    Ideally i would look for something wide, xtra-wide, short and fat, for carving, all mountain and powder (if any). I would ideally go down towards 159-ish boards, if I can eliminate toe/heel drag.

    any input is much appreciated

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 21, 2020 at 4:23 pm

      Hi Mihai

      Thanks for your message.

      Given your boot size, and given that you want to size down a little but get that extra width, I think you would be a good candidate for a Never Summer Westbound 160DF – the DF stands for Drag Free, and it’s nice and wide. It’s perhaps a little stiffer than what I would usually recommend for an intermediate level, but sizing down to that 160 length should counter some of that extra stiffness.

      I could hunt for some short/fat options too but that DF West Bound would work really well, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Mihai says

        January 21, 2020 at 11:23 pm

        it helps a lot, thank you!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 22, 2020 at 12:11 pm

          You’re very welcome Mihai. Hope you’re having a great season!

          Reply

47. Joel says

    January 20, 2020 at 10:52 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Appreciate you putting all the information out there. I’m a 5 on your skill level chart, 5’10” 174lbs, size 9.5 boot. I’m also long past my prime (46) and have not snowboarded for about 15 years. My equipment predates Y2k! I am looking to ease back into it with a new all-around board that’ll help build confidence back, pop with less effort, while not taxing my aging knees and ankles too much. I don’t see deep powder, I don’t try to go as fast as I can, and I avoid trees at all cost (one bad memory will do), but I am happy to do small park jumps and would like to get better at it. Would it be out of my league to be looking at Burton Custom Flying V, or should I be looking at Process Flying V or Name Dropper? Can you recommend a non-Burton alternative? Much appreciated.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 21, 2020 at 3:48 pm

      Hi Joel

      Thanks for your message.

      I don’t think the Custom Flying V would be out of your league. It’s quite an easy going board – easy to turn and forgiving. The pop is easy to extract too, so I think it sounds like it would suit you well. The biggest downsides are when you try to ride it really fast in harder conditions, then it can feel a bit washy, but if you’re not really charging in those conditions, then I don’t think you’ll find that an issue. At your level and how you describe your riding, I think the Custom Flying V over the Process Flying V and certainly over the Name Dropper – which is a more park specialized board, IMO.

      If easy going, all-round, confidence building and easy pop is what you’re after, you could also look at the Slash Brainstorm, YES Typo, Never Summer Snowtrooper or something more all-mountain-freestyle like the GNU Rider’s Choice or Capita Asymulator. Those are the first that come to mind for what you’re describing.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

48. Chadd says

    January 15, 2020 at 2:36 am

    Hey Nate,

    I am looking for advice on a board. I am getting back into snowboarding after having taken 6 or so years off. I am 5’7” weighing about 185lbs. I am looking for something all mountain that I can still do entry level tricks, carve, and handles good in powder. Most of my time will be spent on trail. I would consider myself an advanced beginner/intermediate rider. Looking for a nice board that I can grow and advance my skills.

    My early research has pointed me towards the Rossignol Templar, yes Libre, yes typo, K2’s raygun, or the Jones frontier. I am open to any and all recs.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 15, 2020 at 12:51 pm

      Hi Chadd

      Thanks for your message.

      For what you’re describing, I would say the Typo, Libre & Templar would be your best options. The Jones Frontier doable, but it’s a little more aggressive, a little more advanced than the others. It would be a steeper learning curve. The Raygun isn’t something that I’ve ridden, so I’m not sure there. On specs, it would be doable – though there isn’t any camber in the profile, which means you might find it lacking in terms of carving and pop, particularly once you advance.

      Size-wise, I would be looking at something around 155-157 for your specs and how you describe your riding.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Chadd says

        January 17, 2020 at 4:05 pm

        Nate, thank you for the insight. Your reviews and recommendations are awesome and I greatly appreciate you helping me.

        Do you think their is significant difference between the typo and the Libre to justify the price? Are their any other boards that I didn’t mention that you think I should look into?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 20, 2020 at 1:14 pm

          Hi Chadd

          I think you’ve got some good options there. Could add the Never Summer Snowtrooper or Slash Brainstorm into that mix if you wanted, but one of those would be a good bet.

          Between the Typo and Libre, there’s not a massive difference, if you were looking to save cash on the Libre. I would say the Libre is a little better than the Typo in powder, with the Typo being a slightly better carver. Maybe the Typo over Libre in terms of jumps too, but otherwise, not a giant difference. You do get the Sintered Spec base (which is kind of in between a sintered and extruded base) on the Typo vs the Extruded base on the Libre. So the Typo has a better base. That’s probably a big part of the extra cost for the Typo vs the Libre.

          Reply

49. Herrick says

    January 11, 2020 at 11:55 pm

    I am currently using 2017 burton process flying v + mission bindings. I am looking for an upgrade because I think the board loses stability as it goes fast. Is Yes Standard good for me?
    What size should I choose? I am 5ft8 and bit shy of 130 pounds.

    I ride mostly in Japan, I can carve blues completely with switch and do all 180s when there is enough snow I go into the trees and under the chairlift. I think I am somewhere in between intermediate 6 and advanced 7.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 13, 2020 at 11:35 am

      Hi Herrick

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the Standard would be a good upgrade in terms of something that feels more stable, but without being like super aggressive or stiff or anything like that. I think it would be a good transition up from the Process Flying V. Size-wise, I think the 149 is likely your best bet, but if you could also let me know your boot size, that would be great.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Herrick Mak says

        January 14, 2020 at 5:00 am

        my boot size is 8.5 (I am wearing the Hi-standard from vans). I recently picked up M size union atlas at a discount because I felt the missions are too soft for me and I always had to strap in too much which affects my blood flow of my feet. Why 149 but not 151? Am I going to see any difference in carving and riding switch?

        Reply

        • Herrick Mak says

          January 14, 2020 at 5:13 am

          Thanks again.
          for additional information, I am riding a 152 process flying v and somehow you might be right it feels too long sometimes. I think once I get 149 my turn would become even easier but I lose a bit of stability?

          Reply

          • Nate says

            January 14, 2020 at 12:38 pm

            Hi Herrick

            Typically going shorter, all else being equal, will lead to a more maneuverable board that’s better for freestyle & trees, but will sacrifice in terms of stability at speed and float in powder. However, the Standard vs the Process Flying V will still give you more in terms of stability at speed, carving etc, even in a smaller size.

            I would usually say around that 150-152 range for your specs, but the Standard is wider than the average board and going a little shorter because of that extra width is a good idea, IMO. With 8.5 boots and your specs, I think 149 is your best bet. But you could ride the 151 too. It’s definitely an option if you want to get more stability at speed and float in powder, but I would be leaning towards the 149, as I think it would be the best length/width combo for your specs.

50. Ben Sturtevant says

    January 6, 2020 at 1:04 pm

    Hello, I’m looking into a new board. I’m an all-mountain rider. Currently have an old K2 Ambush 159, which I like quite bit, but it’s about 18 years old now! I’ve slowed down a little at age 54 with creaky knees. I ride mostly in Maine where it can get icy with variable conditions, but we do get some good powder dumps a few times a year when we’re lucky. I’m looking at switching to Burton’s step in bindings to save my knees so the board would need to match up well with those type of bindings. I found good deals on a Burton Flying V 159 and a Rome Reverb Rocker 161 midwide, but I’m not sure if either board will be good for my style and work with the step ins.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 8, 2020 at 12:46 pm

      Hi Ben

      Thanks for your message.

      Burton Step Ons are designed to work on any snowboard, so no issues there. They’re not exclusive to Burton’s Channel System – they work for 2 x 4, 4 x 4 and the Channel.

      The Burton Custom Flying V (assuming that’s what you’re referring to – or is the Process Flying V?) is quite an easy going board, so I think in that sense it would suit what you’re describing for the most part. The only thing is that it’s not the best in hard/icy conditions and since you ride those a lot, that’s the biggest issue there.

      I don’t test Rome gear currently, but from what I know of the Reverb Rocker it is pretty good in hard/icy conditions. But it’s also a more aggressive board by the looks. Even though it has rocker in the name, it’s predominantly camber. Though in saying that, it looks to be not too stiff flexing – and if you’re board is 18 years old, I’m guessing it’s all camber, so you will be used to that. As for the size, being a mid-wide could be a bad thing, depending on your boot size. And can’t comment on the length without knowing your specs. If you could let me know your height, weight and boot size, I can give you my opinion on size, if you’re looking for a sizing opinion.

      Some other good options that are good in hard/icy conditions and are easy going to ride would be:

      – Rossignol One LF
      – YES Typo
      – Slash Brainstorm
      – Nitro Team Gullwing
      – Never Summer Snowtrooper

      With the One LF and Typo being the best in icy conditions of those options, IMO.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Ben Sturtevant says

        January 8, 2020 at 1:32 pm

        Hi Nate,

        Thanks for the info. To clarify, it is the Process Flying V I’m considering. I’m about 5-10, 185 lbs. Size 9 boot. The Burton step in system is interesting to me, although a little pricey, but it may be worth it on my knees. I had K2 Clickers on another board, but I didn’t like that system very well. The Burton system seems like it would be more comfortable with the heel support.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 8, 2020 at 1:56 pm

          Hi Ben

          Yeah Process Flying V very similar in terms of icy conditions as the Custom Flying V. That Flying V just doesn’t hold very well in ice, in my experience.

          I haven’t tested Burton Step On yet, but from everywhere I’ve heard they are the best “quick/easy entry” bindings around. I can’t say for sure myself, but that’s what I’ve heard.

          Reply

          • Ben Sturtevant says

            January 8, 2020 at 4:24 pm

            Great. Appreciate your help Nate. I’ll keep my eyes out for a Typo or the Rossi. Found a good Brainstorm but at 154 I think it’s too small.

          • Nate says

            January 9, 2020 at 12:28 pm

            Hi Ben

            Yeah I think 154 is a bit on the small side for you, for sure. Sorry, I was going to give some sizing opinions and forgot. I would say generally speaking for an all-mountain board, for your specs and given your riding style, I thin k something around 157-159 would be your best bet.

51. Andy says

    January 2, 2020 at 8:27 pm

    Hello-
    Thanks for all your work; I am in the market for a new board and have spent waaaay to much time on this site! I’m A 5’10” 150lbs Rad-Dad type who snowboards ~10-12 times per year and likes to carve groomers, search for powder in and around trees, hit some natural jumps and small park jumps, and basically never ride switch. I have been debating between the YES PYL, Jones flagship, Bryan Iguchi camber, and even the Deep Thinker. The Capita boards don’t seem to match up with me but maybe I’m missing one. Anything I’m missing? Do one of these stand out to you? Thanks again!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 3, 2020 at 12:22 pm

      Hi Andy

      Thanks for your message.

      Assuming you’re at a relatively advanced level, the likes of the PYL, Flagship etc would certainly work, given that you don’t ride switch. I’d say the biggest thing for these types of boards, is that they’re not ideal for small jumps in the park, but if that’s not a big part of your riding, then they’re certainly doable.

      In terms of Capita boards, the Black Snowboard of Death is the most similar to the likes of the PYL, Flagship etc – and I think that would work well for you.

      To me, because of the jumps, I think the PYL & Black Snowboard of Death are probably your best bets. The other board you could look at is the Yes Hybrid, which is a slightly softer, shorter, wider PYL in a lot of ways. Great for trees, powder, and nice for jumps too. Though depending on your boot size, there may not be an appropriate size for that one.

      Size-wise, I would be looking at around 155,156, assuming an advanced level and depending on boot size. If you could let me know that, I can give you a more accurate sizing recommendation (if you’re looking for one).

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Andy says

        January 3, 2020 at 3:29 pm

        Wow, thanks for the detailed response. I am a size 9 with boots so pretty narrow. I’m very interested in the PYL or similar but have a hard time buying a board I haven’t touched with my own hands… tough times make that mental plunge. Thanks again for your thoughts!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 7, 2020 at 12:54 pm

          Hi Andy

          Yeah totally get it. Hard to buy before you try, for sure.

          But yeah, with 9s, I would say the PYL in 156 is best. For the Flagship, I would be leaning towards 154 over the 158. Bryan Iguchi I’d say 156. Deep thinker probably 154. But of course in terms of sizing, past experiences and preferences should be considered too. Like if you’re used to riding considerably longer or shorter, then I would take that into account too.

          Reply

52. Julien says

    January 1, 2020 at 1:55 am

    Hi Nate,

    First things first : happy new year, I wish you a lot of happiness and a lot of powder days for 2020.

    I really like your website and your reviews are well written and instructive.

    I presently ride a 155 Burton Process FV paired with Burton Genesis as an all-moutain Fresstyle board. I like it a lot, it’s fun, easy to press and rotate, and can carve and go fast surprisingly good.
    However, I can see its limits when riding with my skier friends in hard/icy conditions (that are pretty frequent where I ride in France) so I’m looking for a better All-Moutain board with a better edge hold to keep up with them.

    My selection is…your top 3 : Yes standard, Capita Mercury or the Jones Mountain Twin. All paired with Union Force or Falcor bindings (depending on the offer I will have). I had the chance to ride the capita 159 just for one piste and the difference with my board was mindblowing. Felt like a train on rails. Even on icy conditions.

    Which board and which size would you recommend for a 175cm, 80kg rider, level 6 according to your chart, riding Adidas Tactical ADV size 10 ?
    The board should be able to put up with all type of snow (powder, icy) and type of snowboarding (carving, shredding, bad switch) and exceptionnally park for I will keep my Process in my quiver for jibbing and other shenanigans.

    Thanks in advance for your input and again happy new year !

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 3, 2020 at 10:54 am

      Happy new year Julien!

      Thanks for your message.

      Any of those 3 will certainly help for edge-hold in icy conditions vs the Process FV for sure – as you’ve already experienced with the Mercury. I would say that the Mountain Twin and Standard are even a step better in terms of edge-hold in icy conditions. But the Mercury is pretty good too, so they’re all good options. And for everything else you’re describing they’re all good options, so it’s tough to say which one for sure. There’s not a bad choice there.

      Size-wise, I would say something around 157, 158 is a good bet for your specs/how you describe you’re riding/ability. So for the Mercury, I would almost say the 157 is just that little bit better than the 159. The 159 is certainly doable – and if you wanted to stick with what you’ve tried and know, then 159 Mercury is certainly an option. The other advantage to going longer in that sense, is that it gives you a bigger difference size-wise for your quiver. However, I think the 157 would be right on for you and is certainly different enough to have in your quiver, even in that size.

      For the Standard, I would go 156. It’s a bit wider, so going a little shorter is a good idea, IMO.

      For the Mountain Twin, the 157 is your best bet, IMO. But again, if you really wanted something longer for a bigger contrast vs the Process Flying V 155, then you could go 160. But otherwise, the 157 would be the best size for you, IMO.

      I would be leaning towards the 157 Mercury for you, just because you’ve had a chance to try the Mercury and already know you like it. But the other 2 are perfectly good options too, and there’s some room for sizing. But yeah, I would be leaning towards the Mercury 157.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Julien says

        January 4, 2020 at 3:13 am

        Hi Nate,

        Thanks for your well argued reply and for the time it took you to make it.

        As I said I only tried the Capita for one piste and the settings were off (was set goofy although I’m regular) so I rode one half of the blue run in bad switch and the other half with weird angles.
        I wouldn’t say I “know” the Capita. All that I can say is that I felt the improvement in edge hold and carving compared with my board even with the bad settings.

        I’m looking closely to the Jones MT as you said it has a better edge hold and as it really matters to me but wouldn’t it be a little too grabby (I know it’s hard to tell since you cannot know my snowboarding skills) ? Has it the same stability at high speed as the Mercury and does the hyperdrive base give a speed advantage to the Mercury?
        I saw on your reviews that the mercury has a better score in carving than the MT. Is it really sensible for an intermediate/intermediate+ rider?

        I can get a good offer on each of these boards but it all boils down to this :
        – Jones MT 157 + Union Falcor / Now drive black (wich bindings would you recommend with my Adidas Tactical size 10?)
        – Mercury 159 + Union Force / Salomon Hologram (wich bindings would you recommend with my Adidas Tactical size 10?)

        Maybe should’ve started here but I really wanted to know your opinion on theses matters.

        Thanks again !

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 7, 2020 at 1:28 pm

          Hi Julien

          I definitely wouldn’t call the Mountain Twin grabby, so no issues there, IMO.

          The Mercury is something that I would call “solid intermediate” and up. I wouldn’t recommend it to someone who was just entering intermediate territory, but someone with solid technique already and have been intermediate and progressing for a little while, if that makes sense.

          Very similar in terms of stability at speed, IMO. If I had to choose I’d say probably Mercury just a hair more stable, but there’s really very little in it, that I felt. I found both bases give a really good glide. Jones boards tend to be very good and the Jones is no exception. Probably not as much as something like on the Flagship, but in terms of speed from the base/glide on flats etc, the Flagship and some of the other Jones 9900 bases are the best in that area that I’ve ridden. The Mountain Twin is a step down there, but it’s as good as the Mercury, IMO. Both very good in that respect.

          I would go Falcor over NOW Drive personally and I would go Force over Hologram. But the Holograms are solid too, so both are good options there. The Drive also solid, but I’m just not the biggest fan of their board feel.

          I would be leaning 157 MT, mostly because I think it’s probably just a slightly better size for you.

          Reply

          • Julien says

            January 8, 2020 at 11:30 pm

            Hi Nate,

            Thanks for your input. I decided to follow your advice and bought a JMT 157 but with Atlas Union bindings. I know they were out of the equation at first but I thought they would suit me better than the Falcor. Hope I didn’t make a mistake.

            Now I just have to wait and test it out.

          • Nate says

            January 9, 2020 at 1:50 pm

            Hi Julien

            Union Atlas very good bindings, IMO and a good match to the MT, so a good choice there, IMO. If you think of it at the time, let me know how you get on, once you’ve had a chance to test

          • Julien says

            January 21, 2020 at 3:11 am

            Hi Nate,

            As requested, here are my firsts impressions about my JMT paired with the Atlas Union.
            I tried it out this WE for a few hours. The weather was pretty good and the snow was hard packed with some “wind affected” zones (read icy) and some crusted powder on the sides of the pistes.

            My first impression was “I can’t make that thing turn” and then “damn, it’s fast”. After 2 runs I started to get it right. Once on edge it doesn’t budge or wash of. I was able to lay nice carves even on icy terrain which was my main complaint about the Process FV. As you said, it’s not to grabby and I could skid some turns when I was out of my game.

            I did not go to the park but I did try some small rotations on side hits. I felt it was less playful than the process but surprisingly lighter too (I believe it was my mind tricking me because I can’t see how a 157 board with Atlas could be lighter than a 155 with Genesis EST).
            I didn’t find too much pop neither but it could be I am more confortable with the process ATM. However the JMT is confortable and gave me confidence on some heavy landings.

            On the week old powder (with some fresh cm sprinkled on top) it was pretty good. It goes where you want it. I can’t talk about floatability as the snow was pretty heavy.

            Just a word about the Atlas : I think I love them. They are super comfy with good adjustability and a nice match with my Adidas Tactical ADV (unlike my Genesis and their weird toe strap). On one or two pistes I think I heard a clicking sound but it was temporary. Will pay more attention to that next time.

            In conclusion, the JMT is more demanding than my Process FV but also more rewarding. It’s nice as they are not too much overlapping.
            I still need to use it more to handle it better but I feel it’s more of an All Mountain board than the process will ever be.

            I’m glad I followed your advices. Thank you again.

            Julien

          • Nate says

            January 21, 2020 at 3:59 pm

            Hi Julien

            Thanks for the update and detailed notes on your impressions of the MT & Atlas. Always great to hear. And your comments are pretty much what I would expect from transitioning from the Process Flying V to the MT.

53. Magnus says

    December 26, 2019 at 6:59 am

    Hi Nate!

    I really apreciate your reviews and advices and as it seems i’ve progressed faster than i thought and are developing a love of speed and carving. I’ve loved my Capita Outerspace Living this far and i’m guessing that some of my progress is down to riding the right board for me.

    Just back from a week of carving away at speed in Cervinias almost empty pistes i’m feeling however that i might need a board with a bit more edge hold and stability at speed. It’s hard to rate your own skills but i would say that i’m a 6 on your scale. I’ve read your top 10 lists and a lot of other reviews and are a bit interested in the Capita Mercury and Niche Story.

    As mentioned i feel i might need a board with better edge hold but i’m a bit concerned that it’s gonna be to “grabby”. Do you think the boards mentioned earlier is a good next step for me coming from the Outerspace Living? I’m still quite new to snowboarding having only started in february 18 and with perhaps 30-35 days riding so even though i prefer carving at speed and perhaps a bit of pow i want a board that is capable of doing a bit of everything.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 30, 2019 at 12:40 pm

      Hi Magnus

      Thanks for your message. Apologies for the slow response – a bit behind after vacation.

      I think both the Mercury and Story would be a good next step up from the OSL, particularly if you’re looking for more stability at speed. The Mercury is a step up in terms of edge hold but not as much as the Story, which is a very good board for hard/icy conditions. If you’re in icy conditions a lot then the Story is a good option, but if you’re worried about it being grabby and don’t get icy conditions that much, then going up to something like the Mercury would probably be the call I’d make.

      Hope this helps with you’re decision

      Reply

54. Julie says

    December 11, 2019 at 1:37 am

    An informative post..The review and line up of All mountain snowboards is awesome.Kudos to the team.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 11, 2019 at 9:05 am

      Thanks Julie. Appreciate it!

      Reply

      • JW says

        December 18, 2019 at 5:55 pm

        Hi Nate,
        First a big thanks for sharing your boarding knowledge on this site. Your passion for riding really comes through and you are helping tons of riders, so keep up the good work!

        I am in the market for a new all-mountain board. Currently I ride a Rossi One Magtek about 5 years old and it has served me well. But I’d like upgrade to a board with a Sintered base (my Rossi has slower Extruded base).

        My current Rossi is a 161cm mid-wide but I’ve added a few pounds over last 5 years so at 6’2/205 lbs. intermed./advanced rider, your length chart is suggesting a 164cm. I am foot size 11. Here are some questions for you:

        –are all of the companies making high-quality boards these days or are there big differences in quality. If so, a future article on best quality board-makers and best board features (like Magnetraction) would be helpful.
        –are companies still making mid-wides? I don’t see as many offerings and that makes it harder to find the right board for boarders like me with a bigger foot. For most all-mountain boards do you think the regular edition works best for size 11 or should I be using their wide versions?
        –I ride in the Northeast on groomers all day, places like Stratton, VT that are usually great conditions in the morning and get icy when it gets cold after lunchtime. I want to go faster with a Sintered base but should I be avoiding your aggressive all-mountain recs since I am not an expert rider, and sticking with all-mountain boards? [Usually once a season I’ll head out west and ride in some powder if we’re lucky but that is only once a season and I don’t venture ever in the backcountry].
        –Curious if you’ve ever gone riding with some Flow bindings or reviewed any of them. I’ve used their NX2 GT model (regular version not the Hybrid) for the past 10 years and they are awesome! I put my rear foot down into the binding, reach down push up the highback and in about 3 seconds I’m heading down the mountain. No messing with sitting down and ratcheting straps against the boots (that’s lost riding time!). Your beginners and older readers like me might benefit from learning about Flow’s highback bindings.

        I’d appreciate any thoughts on the above!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 19, 2019 at 12:29 pm

          Hi JW

          Thanks for your message.

          Firstly, as far as I know the Rossi One has always had a sintered base – at least looking back as far as the 2011 model. Are you sure it’s extruded on yours? How often do you wax it? That might be something to do with it being slow?

          However if you are looking for a faster base, I have found that Jones bases tend to glide a little better than most – so going with something like the Jones Frontier or Mountain Twin might be a good option for you.

          Quality: Just quickly – most of the brands that I cover have a similar level of quality. I think competition drives brands to need to be at a certain level or they fall out of the market. But I don’t cover budget brands, so I think if you go down to the budget brands then there’ll be a bigger gap in quality. Certainly each brand has a different feel to their boards – and there is a difference in quality between models within a company’s line of boards for sure. But a post on quality and board features sounds like a great idea. I will look into adding that as a future post.

          Mid-Wides: You can still find some mid-wides, but it’s a less common term now. Some “mid-wides” aren’t labelled as such. Some are just considered regular width and some are called wide but in reality are more like what you might see as a “mid-wide”. So, I would say that the term is disappearing to an extent, but there are still boards that are a little wider than regular but not as wide as wide – there’s a spectrum for sure. So, for 11s, it really depends on the board. Some boards will be wide enough in the regular widths – and for others it would be better to go wide.

          All-Mountain and Aggressive All-Mountain: I would say, based on what you’re describing that going all-mountain would be the way to go. You can still certainly ride them at speed (some better than others in that respect). If you were someone who rides aggressively – like fast in addition to getting some really deep carves in, then I would be leaning towards aggressive all-mountain. So, if you’re someone who likes to carve quite aggressively, then I would look at aggressive all-mountain, but if not, I would stick with all-mountain. You want to be quite strong/athletic for most aggressive all-mountain boards too, as they tend to be quite stiff.

          Flow Bindings: I rode some Flow bindings a while back – 2013 model I think. I liked the speed that you could get into them, but I felt there was a performance drop. But I didn’t ride one of the higher end models, so I’m not really sure how they ride – or how the more recent ones ride. It’s not a brand I have easy access too, which is the main reason I don’t test them currently, but if I can get hold of some this winter spring, I’ll definitely looking into testing them. I haven’t sat down to strap in for years – I find it easier to strap in standing up anyway. Still certainly not as fast as Flow (or something like Burton Step Ons) but faster/easier than strapping in sitting down.

          In terms of size for you, I think something around 164 is a good bet, as an advanced rider. But if you identify more as intermediate, then you could ride something a little under that – more like 161-162, if you wanted to stick around that size. Generally speaking something a little shorter will be easier to maneuver (and better for trees and more freestyle type things), but longer will give you more stability at speed and float in powder.

          If you went something like the Frontier, then I’d say go 165 – just because it has a shorter effective edge vs overall length than the average board, so you can go a little longer. And at that length, it’s basically a mid-wide and should be just right for 11s, IMO. If you went Mountain Twin, then I like the 161W for you. You could go 164W or even possibly get on the 162, but I would be leaning towards the 161W.

          If you have any other boards that you’ve narrowed down to, or want other suggestions, just let me know and I can give you my opinion on suitability.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

          • JW says

            December 20, 2019 at 8:11 pm

            Nate, you are a gentleman and a scholar! Thanks for the detailed replies, they will really help with my search. I will check back if I come up with any additional questions. All the best for a great riding season!

            p.s. I just watched Travis Rice’s movie, “The Fourth Phase” as I had not seen before…definitely fun to watch to get fired up for the season.

          • Nate says

            December 22, 2019 at 8:55 am

            You’re very welcome JW. Hope you have a great season too.

            I’ve seen bits of the Fourth Phase but not all of it yet – but yeah definitely TR always good for getting fired up for riding!

55. Isaac says

    December 10, 2019 at 9:13 pm

    Thanks so much for the amazing reviews! They’ve been very helpful in helping me choose a board. I’m 35, 6’2” and 175lbs with a size 11/11.5 boot. I’ll be getting my first board for Christmas this year. Every time I’ve snowboarded before its been on rental equipment. That said, according to you level calculator I’d say I’m about a Intermediate 6. I don’t ever really ride park but hit the occasional jump. My main interest is carving and hitting the powder when I can find it. So I think I want an all mountain board. I’d love a recommendation for a board. Should I be paying attention to my height as much as my weight as I’m choosing? I’ve more or less been looking at 162 for length, but that doesn’t always line up with the weight recommendations for specific boards. The boards I’ve been most interested in are: Yes. Standard, Capita Murcury, Capita, DOA Jones Frontier (although I sort of want a twin) and Yes. Libre. I’m concerned the Standard and Murcury would be too “advanced” of boards for me, but I don’t really know the difference and I’m learning a lot of the terms as I’ve been doing my research. Any direction would be very much appreciated!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 11, 2019 at 9:20 am

      Hi Isaac

      Thanks for your message.

      First, in terms of size. I like to take height into account, but weight and boot size are more important. I would say something around 159-161, taking into account your level, how you describe your riding and your specs.

      Given that you prefer carving, powder for the most part, then I would encourage going at least somewhat directional. If you think you want to get into more freestyle or are/want to ride switch a fair bit, then going more directional twin than directional is a good way to go. But I wouldn’t go true twin, based on what you’re describing. So, the DOA, in my opinion isn’t that suitable as it’s true twin and also not great in powder, IMO.

      So, if you don’t want to go as directional as the Frontier, then I think the Standard and Mercury are your best bets. At an Intermediate 6 level, neither of those boards would be an issue for you to ride.

      For the Standard I think the 159 would be your best size.

      For the Mercury, probably the 159 too. But if you end up in 11.5 boots, it might be pushing it being too narrow for your boots. Even in an 11 it’s on the narrower side. The 161 would be fine for 11s, but pushing it for 11.5s. Depending on the boots you get (some boots are more low profile than others), binding angles, how aggressively you carve (like how high up on the edges you get) will factor in to whether it’s wide enough for you. And of course, which size you end up in.

      The Standard won’t have any issues width-wise.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Isaac says

        December 11, 2019 at 11:15 am

        Nate, thanks so much for the reply! This helps a lot. I’ve been hemming and hawing over weather the stiffness of the Standard or Mercury would be too much. The Standard is the board I’m finding myself most interested in. Do you suggest the 159 because it’s a wider board overall? I read somewhere that the length should be somewhere between your chin and nose and my chin is right at 164. It’s hard to know what to go off of because there is so much contrary information out there. Also are there bindings you’d recommend to match with either of these board? I’ve been looking as some of the ones on your top 5 list, but also wondering if there are some cheaper options that could work. Thanks!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 11, 2019 at 12:17 pm

          Hi Isaac

          The length between your nose and chin thing is pretty old school. Definitely how length used to be determined, but weight has become a more important factor. Boards around that 164 length are going to typically be too long for your weight. You could ride up to 162, depending on the board, but that would be at a more advanced level. Given your level, that’s why I adjusted the range down just a bit. For the Standard, it is a wider board and even though your on 11s or 11.5s, it will still be on the slightly wider side – so going up to the 162 is going to be quite big in terms of the combination of length and width, so I think the 159 would work best for you.

          At that length/width, for your specs, and at an intermediate 6 level, I don’t think you would find it too stiff. It might take some adjustment to begin with, but otherwise I think you’d be fine. The Mercury is a touch stiffer, but still not super-stiff, so I think you’d be OK there too, particularly in the 159, remembering to think about potential width issues on that one.

          In terms of bindings, some good options to go with the Standard or similar board, but a little cheaper are:

          – Union Force
          – Burton Mission

          Or if you wanted to go even less than that, the Union STR is a pretty solid binding for the price. Also, see if you can find something that’s past season (like a 2019 model) and you should be able to get it a good bit cheaper than the latest model.

          Reply

          • Isaac says

            December 11, 2019 at 1:30 pm

            Thank you so much, this is great! For the bindings do I need to about certain types when making the choice? I read something about mini discs not being a good match for the Standard. Are there other things I should look out for?

          • Nate says

            December 12, 2019 at 3:56 pm

            Hi Isaac

            Yeah a mini-disc is fine on the Standard, until you go use the Slam Back inserts. They won’t go on them. So, if you were planning on using the slam back inserts, like for powder days, then I would skip the mini-disc. Otherwise, the only other thing is just make sure you don’t get Burton “EST” bindings – as they only mount to the channel. But Burton “Re:Flex” are fine.

56. Carl Stanley says

    November 29, 2019 at 6:39 am

    Hi Nate. Awesome post – so helpful when trying to figure out what you want, when you can’t get demo’s of boards. I love how helpful you are in your comments too – amazing and super helpful.
    My question was whether you had tested the new Yes Globe NSB in this group and if so, how it compared. I have been deliberating massively over the Yes NSB and Yes Standard, as well as the Jones MT and Capita Mecury (probably in that order). I am 6.0ft, 190lbs with 10.5 US boots and an Intermediate 6 pushing 7. Mainly piste rider, but will ride the pow option if its there, and I enjoy a bit of freestyle and park (but needs work!). I’m generally a charger on piste, but after a full day, the legs don’t want something that will punish me for being a bit lazy. I currently have a 2011 (i think) Lib Tech TRS C2 Power Banana (161.5cm), and it is a great board, but its so grabby/catchy in chop. Brilliant edge but too punishing.
    Would love to hear if you have tried the Yes Globe NSB, and what you would recommend? You seem like the man to know! Thanks hugely

    Reply

    • Carl Stanley says

      November 29, 2019 at 6:41 am

      Oh, and i would be using Malavita Bindings (prob from about 2011 too)

      Reply

      • Nate says

        November 29, 2019 at 3:13 pm

        I would say the Standard would be a better match to the Malavita vs the Globe NSB, but like I said in my other response, I haven’t ridden the Globe, so I couldn’t say for sure

        Reply

    • Nate says

      November 29, 2019 at 3:11 pm

      Hi Carl

      Thanks for your message.

      The Globe NSB is one of the only YES boards I haven’t ridden (I tried to get on one last winter, but my rep didn’t have any).

      Based on specs, I would probably put it in the all-mountain-freestyle category, mostly because it’s a true twin with a centered stance. It does have those slam back inserts, like the Standard, which is great for powder days (assuming you’re inclined to re mount your bindings for powder days – well worth it, IMO!). But the Standard also has the Directional Volume Twin shape, which is why it’s in this category, though very close to being all-mountain freestyle too.

      The Globe NSB sounds like it’s essentially a YES Basic but with a sintered based, and a different core – and significantly stiffer. Yes rate it 9/10 for stiffness – though it’s unlikely to be that stiff. Most YES boards don’t feel as stiff as their ratings. I couldn’t say for sure, but I would say that it would still be stiffer than the Standard (which is rated 7/10, but feels more like 6/10). For reference the Basic is rated 5/10 but feels more like 4/10 and the Typo is rated 6/10, but feels more like 4.5/10 – to me. The Globe NSB at a guess, based on what I’ve read and the specs will be more like 7/10 I would say.

      So, I think it comes down to whether you want that directional volume twin to give you a little more in terms of powder, and whether you’d prefer a more medium (6/10) flex or a more medium-stiff flex. But like I say I haven’t ridden it, so I couldn’t say for sure what the Globe is like, in reality.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

57. Osman says

    November 29, 2019 at 2:31 am

    Hi Nate,

    first of all, thanks for the really helpful lists! But i have preferd two boards ´:

    – Capita Mercury
    – Capita Super DOA

    I’m 1.72m, about 89 kg and I have size EU 43 feet. I love carving, speed runs, powder and also jumps ;).
    Can you do a recommendation which of these two boards would be a good choice? I’m all ears if you have a better suggestion 🙂

    Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 29, 2019 at 2:56 pm

      Hi Osman

      Thanks for your message.

      I think I would be leaning towards the Mercury for you, mostly because it’s more of an all rounder. The Mercury is better in powder than the SuperDOA but equal to it for speed, carving and jumps, IMO. Since you ride powder, I would go Mercury.

      Size-wise for the Mercury, I think the 159 would be the best size for you. If you’re used to riding shorter or longer than that, then you could consider the 157 & 161, but based on specs and how you describe your riding, I think the 159 would be the best fit.

      From what you’re describing, I think the Mercury is a very good choice. Other’s on this list would do the job too, for sure, but the Mercury is a solid option for you, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Osman says

        December 1, 2019 at 11:20 pm

        Thanks for your advice Nate.

        Reply

        • Osman says

          December 1, 2019 at 11:30 pm

          Hi Nate, sorry but I wrote down the wrong body size. My size ist 176-178 cm. Which size would you prefer?

          Thank you.

          Reply

          • Nate says

            December 2, 2019 at 3:12 pm

            Hi Osman

            Based on the new info, I think the 161 is probably a better length for you, but it’s just whether it’s getting on the wide side for your boots to be ideal. That would be my only concern with the 161 for you. If you think you’ll be OK width-wise, then the 161, assuming an advanced level, might be better.

            That said, the 159 would still work, if you wanted a more maneuverable option. Would sacrifice a little in terms of speed, carving and float though.

        • Nate says

          December 2, 2019 at 3:09 pm

          You’re very welcome Osman. Hope you have an awesome season!

          Reply

          • Osman says

            December 3, 2019 at 7:12 am

            Hi Nate one last question you say the boots can be maybe a problem is this right. How can i check this? I will also buy new boots.
            I think i buy the 161 version of the board.

          • Nate says

            December 3, 2019 at 4:12 pm

            Hi Osman

            Yeah, I just mean boots in terms of width of the board. And what I really mean is foot-size. If the board is too wide for your feet, it can feel slower edge-to-edge or make it feel like you have to make too much effort to turn the board.

            The Mercury 161 is roughly 268mm at the inserts. With US10 boots, I typically don’t like anything too much wider than 265mm at the inserts. With UK8.5 (US9.5 equivalent) it might be the case that you find it too wide, but it’s hard to say. Some people don’t mind wider boards so much.

          • Osman says

            December 4, 2019 at 4:30 am

            Hello Nate,

            the Capita Mercury is everywhere sold out or very expensive. Can you prefer a other board which is also a hybrid camber, maybe not the newest one.

            Thank you.

          • Nate says

            December 4, 2019 at 2:59 pm

            Hi Osman

            If you can find a suitable size of the following in a past season’s model, they are also hybrid camber all-mountain boards from this list, which would be most similar to the Mercury:

            – Rossignol One
            – Jones Mountain Twin
            – YES Standard

            The Typo and Brainstorm are also hybrid camber, but are more playful vs the 3 above. Since you were looking at the Mercury, I think the 3 above would be the best alternatives.

          • Osman says

            December 10, 2019 at 4:50 am

            Hey Nate,

            can you say something about the academy team hybrid board?

            Thank you

          • Nate says

            December 10, 2019 at 4:38 pm

            Hi Osman

            I don’t test Academy boards, so I don’t really know anything about the Acadamy Team. Looks like a centered directional twin, mostly camber, but a little rocker tip and tail. But yeah, not sure how it rides.

      • Chad says

        January 12, 2020 at 8:46 am

        Hi Nate, I’m kinda caught in a quandary. I’m an older rider (55) and learned to ride 5 years ago. I consider myself intermediate but still struggle achieving that fine pencil line carve. My goal is to achieve this and I’m looking for a board to help my progression in this area. I mostly like to ride fast but living in Minnesota we are vertically challenged with plenty of hard snow conditions, rarely pow anymore.

        I’m 6”2 210, 12 boots with shrunk tech to 11 (Burton Photons). I’ve had a lot of boards in the last five years and I can’t keep trying to find that perfect one, too costly. Right now I have a Jones UME 58 & Aviator 60W. Both great boards but really for big mountain riding, not Midwest.

        I’m looking at Burton Custom 158W. Narrower side cut. Do you think this would help me achieve my goal? My concern with the custom is that it’s full camber and it can punish you if your not on or skidding turns. At my age I have no desire to be constantly thrown to the ground or injured trying to learn techniques. Maybe there is a better board? Also considering ROME National 157W. BTW, I like shorter boards. Longest board I owned was 162, hated it. 155-158 is my sweet spot. Sorry for throwing so much out there. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Cheers!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 13, 2020 at 12:02 pm

          Hi Chad

          Thanks for your message – and for throwing so much in there – the more info the easier it is to find the best option.

          Given that you mostly like to ride fast and carve, I think you will want a good bit of camber, but I think some rocker in the profile, just to take away that need to be always “on” and lessen the chances of catching an edge, is probably a good idea. Also since you’re not on big vertical drops, probably don’t want to go too stiff. That said, given your preferred range of length, going smaller like that helps to make a board more maneuverable and feel softer than it otherwise would, so I would also be weary of going too soft, given that you want to carve and ride fast.

          The Custom is a good option – all but the potential catchiness you might feel from it, like you say.

          The Burton Skeleton Key might be a good alternative. The biggest thing would be if the 158 is too narrow for your boots.

          Some other options include:

          – Endeavor Clout
          – Salomon Super 8
          – Capita Supernova

          All relative aggressive rides, good for carving and speed, but with a little bit of forgiveness.

          I don’t currently test Rome gear, so can’t say much about the National.

          And certainly something from this list could work well too. A little less aggressive in terms of carving vs the likes of the Custom, and others mentioned here. But still some good carvers among them. The likes of the Story and Mercury, in particular, but also the Standard, Mountain Twin, One LF would be good options too (given an appropriate size). The Jones Frontier is also an option.

          The UME is a rather stiff, aggressive ride, from my experience. And the Aviator a little more easy going, but still quite camber dominant. So, potentially if the Aviator isn’t to your liking on the mountains you ride, then I think potentially something from this list (Mercury, Story, Standard, MT, One) might be more to your liking on the smaller mountains.

          Hope this helps with your decision

          Reply

58. Daan says

    November 21, 2019 at 3:59 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Thank you for this great review. I’m looking for a all mountain freestyle board. I’m 5’10” and 190lbs. I ride switch, 180’s is no prblem. Some jibbing, cruising and powder. I have a Yes pick your line 161 and a Bataleon Global Warmer 154 which i will sell (don’t like it. Base is slow, cruises quite boring, the pop is a bit nuclear and i can’t get used to the 3bt). I did ride the Salomon Assassin 156 2020 and really liked it. Also had a Nidecker legacy 155 2013 which i loved (with the flexible nose and tail). Now I’m hesitating Salomon Assassin 159 or Yes Standard 158….. what would you recommend?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 22, 2019 at 3:22 pm

      Hi Daan

      Thanks for your message.

      Both those are certainly great options for what you’re describing, but I would even look at the YES Greats vs the Standard – just because it’s more freestyle focused and just that little bit more different to the PYL. Standard is still quite different, but the YES just that bit more different, for a more complimentary addition to your quiver.

      I would actually consider the 156 if you were to go Assassin. Partly because you have ridden it and know you like it as well as being a bigger difference to your 161 PYL. If you were to go Standard or Greats, I’d go 156 as well, for the same reason.

      Also check out:

      >>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

59. Solomon says

    November 19, 2019 at 10:29 pm

    Hi Nate.
    So I’ve ridden nothing but burton since I started snowboarding. I just picked up the burton step on’s, and I was looking at getting a new board. I was looking at the burton custom camber or the burton paramount. I’m hesitant to branch out away from burton because it’s all I know. There are a lot of boards out there it can be a little overwhelming and they are not cheap. So I really don’t want to pick the “wrong” one. I love on the east coast of the US so it’s resort riding and pretty often a lot of ice. I like hitting jumps and racing my friends down the hill and spending a little time in the park. I hope to make it back out west but those trips are going to be few and far between. HELP!! This decision has been keeping me up at night.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 20, 2019 at 1:12 pm

      Hi Salomon

      Thanks for your message.

      Neither are great in powder, but if you’re not going to be seeing much of it, then that’s probably not a big things for you. The Custom Camber is just that little bit better for powder, but still not great. But doable for riding in powder, if you’re just going to be in it rarely, or if it’s not that deep.

      I am a big fan of the Paramount and prefer it for jumps, spins, riding and taking off/landing switch. But for everything else, but for everything else about the same with the Custom – maybe the Custom that little better at speed though. So Custom a little better in powder and at speed. The Paramount a little better for riding switch, jumps and spins. All else fairly equal. I would say that the Custom Camber is the slightly more versatile board vs the Paramount, which is more freestyle oriented.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

60. Frederik says

    November 13, 2019 at 12:14 pm

    Hi Nate,

    first of all, thanks for the really helpful lists! I used it to narrow my board search down to 4:

    – Jones Mountain Twin
    – K2 Manifest
    – Nitro Team camber
    – Salomon Ultimate Ride

    I’m 1.80m, about 75 kg and I have size EU 45 / US 10.5 feet. I ride mostly casual (on groomers) but I do love some speed runs. Can you do a recommendation which of these boards would be a good choice? I’m all ears if you have a better suggestion 🙂

    Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 14, 2019 at 12:02 pm

      Hi Frederik

      Thanks for your message.

      I would be leaning towards the Mountain Twin from that list. Mostly because you mention that you mostly like to ride casually on groomers, but with speed sometimes. The Mountain will be the best from that list, IMO, for riding casual on groomers, but can also handle some speed. The other 3 are more aggressive. In order from least to most aggressive I would have it in the order you have them, so I think the Mountain Twin would be best.

      There are a number of boards from this list that would also fit your description well (better than the Manifest, Team Camber and Ultimate Ride in terms of casual runs), like the Standard, Team Gullwing, One LF & Brainstorm.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Frederik says

        November 14, 2019 at 9:02 pm

        Thanks for your reply and advice Nate. I’ll look into those other boards aswell. I currently have Burton Custom bindings (6yrs old), would you recommend replacing those with these type of boards?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 15, 2019 at 1:10 pm

          Hi Frederik

          Yeah, I would go for stiffer bindings than the Custom on these boards. I find sometimes that softer bindings don’t have enough power to drive a stiffer board. The Custom I would give a flex feel of around a 3/10. Those boards are more like 6/10 for flex. I would go for something at least 5/10 flex-wise, and up to 7/10. You can check out some of these, if you do decide to upgrade your bindings:

          >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

          Reply

          • Frederik says

            November 15, 2019 at 10:03 pm

            Guess I’ll need to upgrade my budget aswell then 😉 Thanks for your advice!

          • Nate says

            November 16, 2019 at 10:40 am

            You’re very welcome Frederik. Hope you have an awesome season!

61. george says

    November 6, 2019 at 7:52 am

    Hey Nate, wondering if you’ve ridden the Salomon Ultimate Ride and how you would compare it to these boards/which of these is most similar? Also curious what you think of the board in general. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 6, 2019 at 2:47 pm

      Hi George

      Thanks for your message.

      I got on the Ultimate Ride (2020 model) last winter for the first time – and I loved it. It’s not something that I put in this category though. You can see it in the following list:

      >>Top 5 Aggressive All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

      I haven’t completed my full review for it yet, but it will come out some time before the end of the year.

      Compared to the boards on this list, it’s more aggressive and stiffer than most here (7/10 flex). But yeah more aggressive camber-wise. And it’s a true twin and just all round more freestyle oriented. But also great for carving and riding fast – just not very good in powder vs the boards on this list.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • george says

        November 7, 2019 at 10:48 am

        Thanks for the reply! Couple more questions I hope you can clarify for me! I’m 5’11” 165lb and size 10.5-11 boots.

        How much of a difference would I notice between a 155 and 158 board?

        How would you compare the Capita Mercury and the Ultimate Ride?

        I ride pretty aggressively and do a fair amount of glades, but not too much powder or park riding. I’m kinda stuck between these two boards!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 8, 2019 at 12:33 pm

          Hi George

          Between the Mercury and the Ultimate Ride, the Ultimate is a more aggressive ride. You can get relatively aggressive on the Mercury too, but overall the Ultimate Ride is more of a hard charger. The Mercury certainly better for powder. The Mercury is more directional – it’s not hugely directional but it has a nose that’s a little longer than tail, a 1/2″ setback stance and a directional side cut. The Ultimate Ride is a directional twin (sorry I said true twin in my last reply. But it’s mostly twin – just a slightly longer nose than tail. But it’s centered on effective edge. The camber on Ultimate Ride is more pronounced than it is on the Mercury – and the camber sections extend closer to the contact points. There’s just a very slight rocker before the contact points. The Mercury has longer rocker sections, and the camber is a little less pronounced.

          I’d say the Mercury is more of an all-rounder in terms of tackling powder, and something that can be ridden slower and less aggressively when you want to. But for out and out charging with heaps of pop, the Ultimate Ride has it, IMO.

          Between 155 and 158 you would definitely notice that difference, all else being equal IMO. I usually notice a difference even of 2cm. Between boards, depending on the two boards you’re comparing, that 2-3cm could either mean a bigger difference or less of a difference. But yeah, if you’re comparing 155 Ultimate Ride vs 158 Ultimate Ride, for example then yes, definitely noticeable difference.

          For your specs, I would recommend 155 for the Ultimate Ride and 157 for the Mercury. The Ultimate Ride will feel longer than it’s total length vs the Mercury because it has more effective edge.

          In terms of width, if you’re on 10.5s, you’ll probably be fine width-wise for both. The Mercury 157 is roughly 264mm at the inserts and the Ultimate Ride 155 is roughly 262mm at the inserts. Those widths would be pushing it with 11s though, especially as you like to ride aggressively. Though if you’re used to regular width boards in 11s and haven’t had any issues, then personal experience is also something to consider.

          Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

          Reply

          • george says

            November 12, 2019 at 6:36 pm

            Thanks for the awesome reply! I think I’ll end up going for the Mercury.

          • Nate says

            November 13, 2019 at 12:01 pm

            You’re very welcome George. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new deck!

62. Michael says

    November 6, 2019 at 3:34 am

    Hi Nate
    can you help me choose 1-3 boards because there are too many options and i really dont know what to pick.
    i am 183cm high
    i have 82kg
    and foot 43-44 9-10 US
    I will say that i spent 75% time on resort, 15% on some jumps but mainly in the
    Backcountry/outside the resort(forest). and 10% in snowparks.
    And maybe which you will pick if you were me, and do you think that M-size binding will work for 10 us?

    thanks in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 6, 2019 at 2:40 pm

      Hi Michael

      For starters, you’re looking in the right place, IMO. Based on what you’re describing, I think an all-mountain board is the way to go, assuming you just want a one board quiver.

      Can you just let me know a couple of other things about your riding.

      When on the resort, do you consider yourself an aggressive rider or more casual or in between. By aggressive I mean, do you like to ride super fast, really get deep and low on your carves etc.

      Do you typically see a lot hard/icy conditions? Do you see much powder? Basically an idea of type of terrain you typically ride in.

      These will help to narrow it down

      Reply

      • Michael says

        November 7, 2019 at 11:59 am

        thanks for reply Nate!

        I can say that i am between agressive and casual rider.
        I think that moguls and bumps are the bigest issue, but icy conditions happened too and previous rented board was loosing the traction very often.but mostly i ride on the well prepared resorts.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 8, 2019 at 12:44 pm

          Hi Michael

          I would look at the following:

          – Rossignol One LF (really good in icy conditions, good in uneven terrain and is a good balance of not being too aggressive and not too playful)
          – Nitro Team Gullwing (not quite as good in icy conditions as One LF, but still good, but a little better in uneven terrain – again a good balance of not being too playful or too aggressive)
          – Jones Mountain Twin (about the same as Team Gullwing in icy conditions, about One LF in uneven terrain, and in between aggressive and playful)
          – YES Standard (as good as One LF in icy conditions and uneven terrain – and also a good balance between aggressive and playful)

          Size-wise, I would look at something around 158-160 – and regular width.

          In terms of getting into an M binding – it will depend on the brand of bindings and your brand of boots (but mostly binding brand). Check out the following for bindings sizings of most binding brands:

          >>Snowboard Binding Sizing

          Hope this helps with your decision

          Reply

          • Michael says

            November 8, 2019 at 11:22 pm

            Thanks for your time and help Nate!
            Du you think that Union Force M will work with Jones Mountain twin?
            and i have a question, can you compere this 4 that you chose for me with Capita Outerspace Living and LIbtech Terrain Wrecker because there is discount in my country for this 2 boards.

          • Nate says

            November 9, 2019 at 1:43 pm

            Hi Michael

            Yeah the Union Force is a good match for the Mountain Twin – or any of these options, IMO. And the Medium Size is good for your boots and the boards in your size range.

            The Capita OSL is a more freestyle oriented board – centered and true twin. It does have a slightly longer nose and tail vs most all-mountain-freestyle boards, but overall still more freestyle focused. Not as good in hard/icy conditions as the others either, IMO. Not far off, but not quite there. You can read more in my Capita Outerspace Living Review

            I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker, but it’s something that I’ve looked into a lot, and been asked about a lot. I would say that it’s in the all-mountain category. It’s a centered stance, but it’s got a directional twin shape. It’s probably about the same flex as the boards here and is likely good in hard/icy conditions as most Lib Tech boards are. I can’t say much more about it having not ridden it, but I suspect it’s something that would also work for you.

63. Ivan says

    October 29, 2019 at 2:10 am

    Good Day Nate,

    especially helpful post and one of the best review sites I’ve been following out there! I’m looking for an all mountain board and have shortlisted the Capita Mercury vs the Yes Standard. I have the option of the 157 Capita Mecury and the 156 Yes Standard.

    My height is 174cm and my weight is about 68-73kg. My boot size is about US8.5. So can be a US8-US9.

    All things equal, would you suggest I get the 157 Mercury or the 156 Standard and if I decide to go with the 156 standard would I be struggling due to the width being too wide for my weight and boot size?

    Thanks and Sincerely,
    Ivan

    Reply

    • Nate says

      October 29, 2019 at 11:43 am

      Hi Ivan

      Thanks for your message.

      Length-wise, I think around that 155, 156 would work for you. But as you suggest, the width is the biggest concern there. I think ideally, for your specs, the 153 Standard would work better than the 156 (but it sounds like you don’t have availability on the 156). The 153 would still be on the wider side for your boots, but the slight sizing down would balance that out, so I think the 153 would work well, but the 156 might feel a bit big for you, I suspect.

      The Mercury 157, despite looking similar in terms of width, based on waist width, is a little narrower. It’s roughly 263mm at the inserts compared to the Standard 156 which is 270mm at the inserts, so quite a big difference there. Though, the Mercury 157 is still overall on the wide side for 8.5s, IMO, so sizing down to the 155 for that board, would be the size I would recommend for you. But again, it doesn’t sound like you have that option.

      So, yeah in short, if you had the option then the 153 Standard and 155 Mercury would be the better sizes, IMO. But if you have to choose between the 156 Standard and 157 Mercury, then I would go 157 Mercury for your specs.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Ivan says

        October 29, 2019 at 12:23 pm

        Hey Nate,

        thank you so much for the quick response. I realized i might have gotten my boot sizing wrong. I’m actually a US9-US9.5. Sorry for the confusion. Having said that, would that make a big difference? Between the 156 Standard and the 157 Mercury would you still pick the 157 Mercury? Also in this case, for a US9-US9.5, would the 155 Mercury still be a better pick than the 157?

        After reading your reviews I have a slight preference for the Standard actually as I see that you rated the Standard better for butters and switch and i like it being a twin but also having a slam back option. However if the 156 Standard is too big for my boot size, I would rather pick the Mercury as I dont wanna sacrifice too much on response (afterall it is a close second in your list!)

        Reply

        • Nate says

          October 30, 2019 at 11:51 am

          Hi Ivan

          Ultimately it comes down to foot size, more so than boot size. As it’s the feet that ultimately apply pressure to the edges. If you have a foot size of 27.5cm (which would be the mondo for a US9.5), then I think you’d probably be OK width-wise for the Standard. It would still be on the wide-side though. I have US10 boots, and that’s what I fit in best, but I have 27.5cm feet, but I’ve never been able to get into a 9.5. For me I like the 156, but also I’m 185lbs (84kg) (or at least I was the last time I demoed it) and 6’0″ (183cm). So for me, going 156 was sizing down more so than it would be for you. It’s a board that I would consider wide for me in the 156, but going down to the 156, when I would usually ride 159-160 for an all-mountain board, makes up for that little bit of extra width. For your specs, I would say more like 156-157 at a good width, so going 156 isn’t really sizing down at all. So, I’m still, even assuming 27.5cm feet, I’m concerned you would still find it on the big side.

          For the Mercury, I would still say that the 155 is a better size for you. But the 157 becomes a more appealing prospect with slightly bigger boots (or ultimately slightly longer feet)

          Hope this helps/makes sense

          Reply

64. Nikita says

    October 16, 2019 at 3:52 pm

    Nate, greeting from Belarus and thanks for your post. It’s the best that I found on the internet.
    I would like to have your advice.
    I do snowboarding for ~9 years. I have k2 lifelike. I want to buy a new snowboard this season.
    I ride switch all the time. I’m a fan of jumps (ollie, nollie, 180, 360). So, between soft and stiff, I vote Soft. 🙂 And 30% of the time I do freeride in deep snow OR a forest. No park at all.
    Your opinion? What snowboard can do freeride but stay soft for jumps and be comfortable for switch riding?
    I change snowboard once in 5+ years. So, it can be overpriced 🙂

    Reply

    • Nikita says

      October 16, 2019 at 3:54 pm

      P.s. 175 sm, 67-70 kg

      Reply

      • Nate says

        October 17, 2019 at 1:54 pm

        Hi Nikita

        Thanks for your message.

        I think it’s a case of finding a balance between switch/180s and riding in deep snow. For deep snow ideally you want something directional, even tapered and setback a lot – but that’s the opposite of what’s ideal for riding/taking off/landing switch. So, I think you’re in the right place – something with a bit of a setback/direction to it, but that’s still decent for riding/landing switch. Size-wise, there’s also a bit of compromise to be made. For deep snow, going bigger is a good idea, but for riding in the forest, going shorter is better – and for riding freestyle stuff, I usually like to go shorter too.

        I think something like the YES Standard could be a really good option – since it naturally has a centered stance, it’s going to be good for riding switch and all your freestyle stuff – but it has just a bit more in the nose to help it in powder. And it has “slam back” insert options, which you could move your bindings to on deeper days. Size-wise would depend on your boot size. If you can let me know that I can give you a size recommendation for that board.

        The YES Typo could also fit the bill if you want to go a little softer. Not quite as good for powder, but still good. And it’s softer flexing, so everything else you’re describing works well with it. And whilst it doesn’t have those slam back inserts, you can still choose to set it back on those powder days. I think the 155 (depending on boot size) would be a really good size for you for this board. It’s also a little quicker edge-to-edge vs the Standard, so that would help in the trees.

        The Slash Brainstorm (154 – but again depending on boot size) would also be a really good choice.

        Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

        Reply

        • Nikita says

          October 18, 2019 at 12:17 pm

          Thank you for your detailed answer. Your advice is very helpful. The size is US 7 / FR 40

          Reply

          • Nate says

            October 19, 2019 at 9:13 am

            Hi Nikita

            Thanks for the extra info.

            Size-wise, I would put you on around a 154-155, assuming you’re quite an advanced rider – as an all-mountain size. But since most boards around that size are likely not ideal in terms of width (being a bit too wide) for your boots. It might be a good idea to size down from there a little bit. Going a little shorter when a board is a bit wide for your boots, helps with maneuverability (a wide board can feel sluggish edge-to-edge). Sizing down will be good for when you’re in the trees and for your more freestyle stuff – it will impact negatively on your stability at speed and float in powder though, so there is some compromise there. But given all the facts, I think sizing down a little is a good idea.

            For the Standard, I think you’d want to size down to around 151, to make the width manageable for your boot size. The 151 is still going to be on the wider side for your feet, but sizing down should counteract the slower edge to edge effects of being wider.

            The YES Typo I would size down to the 152. The width is going to be a little narrower (at the inserts) than the Standard 151, but it’s just that little bit longer too. I think this would be a good size for you. Going with a Typo is going to be a setup that mostly favors riding switch and your freestyle stuff and not as good as the other two options for powder, but will be OK in powder. It is really fast edge-to-edge for playing in the forest.

            The Brainstorm on the other hand isn’t going to be as suited for riding switch/freestyle as the Typo but will give you a good bit more in powder. Still really quick edge to edge and you can certainly do all those freestyle things on it, and can definitely ride switch. I would go 151 for this board. This will be the narrowest of all 3, in the 151.

            Another option that just came into my head is the Capita Outerspace Living. It’s an all-mountain-freestyle board, but it’s something that’s a little better in powder vs a lot of all-mountain-freestyle boards. A good option if you like to ride switch even when in powder. And definitely suitable for your freestyle stuff. It’s a narrower board too, when you get into some of the smaller sizes. So I think the 152 would be a good size and would give you a width that should work well with size US7 boots.

            Hope that’s all clear and hope it helps with your decision

          • Nikita says

            October 20, 2019 at 3:12 am

            Awesome, Nate! I appreciate your help! Cheers!

          • Nate says

            October 21, 2019 at 12:04 pm

            You’re very welcome Nikita. Hope you have an awesome season!

65. sticky says

    September 23, 2019 at 5:14 pm

    I love your reviews, they’re very measured and I find them unbiased. I rode the Jones Mountain Twin 157 and Yes Standard 156 last year at Whistler and got some decent varied conditions including some fresh pow.

    I liked both boards very much, they’re both extremely capable and playful yet stable, and confidence-inspiring. I found the main difference between those two boards was the Standard is a bit wide, noticeable enough that it was fatiguing by the end of the day. It just wasn’t as quick edge to edge as I’m used to, and certainly not as quick edge to edge as the Mountain Twin.

    The other noticeable difference was the base on the Standard is slow! Both had fresh coats of wax, the shop waxed them in front of me both days. I generally don’t have trouble keeping up with anyone, but when riding with my friends they would leave me in the dust if we really stepped on the gas. I had no such problems with the Mountain Twin.

    The Standard did have a bit more bite on icy snow. Overall they’re both great and I had a lot of fun but I’d choose the Mountain Twin over the Standard due to the slower turning and slow base.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 24, 2019 at 11:32 am

      Hi Sticky

      Thanks for your input, much appreciated. Great to hear others insights. I have found with Jones bases that they tend to be faster (and certainly glide more on flats) than most boards, so I’m not too surprised you noticed a difference there.

      Reply

66. HarryB says

    September 17, 2019 at 11:22 pm

    Hi Nate.

    Some awesome reviews. But I’m after some guidance.

    I’ve been Snowboarding for about 8 years. I now got on a yearly trip To Japan for a few weeks to ride powder and some Groomers, doing the odd little jump but nothing serious.

    I am 60 KG and about 157CM. What kind of length board would you recommend?

    I currently ride a 153CM board. But I find I have to heavily lean back in powder. Also any specific board recommendation would be great.

    Thanks 😁

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 18, 2019 at 2:08 pm

      Hi Harry

      Thanks for your message.

      Generally speaking, for your specs, I would say more around 147cm – maybe adding 2-3 cms if you’re riding a lot of powder. So I’m surprised that you have to lean back so much on a 153. That said, if you’re riding something that’s not suited to powder (e.g. if it has no setback, isn’t directional, has no rocker in the nose, no taper etc), then even in that length you will have to work hard to stay afloat.

      What board are you on at the moment? Can you also let me know your boot size, and also if you would be happy to go with a women’s boards or would rather stick to men’s. I can think of some options, but if you can let me know those 3 things, I can give you what I think are the best options for you.

      Reply

67. Jason D says

    September 12, 2019 at 12:34 pm

    Awesome job Nate! Love seeing the updated 2020 snowboards, can’t wait for the snow to fly! Cheers Jason!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 12, 2019 at 4:23 pm

      Thanks Jason! I’m definitely itching for the snow too!

      Reply

68. Charlie says

    September 6, 2019 at 1:21 pm

    Hey Nate,

    Well overdue to upgrade my begginer board and liked the look of the Yes. Standard, but really open to options within a respectable cost range. I’m 5’11” 205lbs 11.5 shoes (US) and do a yearly trip or two out west for more powder on the mountains and prefer a board more suited to that. I hop between primarily the black/blue routes as well as some fresher routes in the bowls/woods as available. If you could throw out a few recommendations it would be appreciated!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      September 9, 2019 at 10:36 am

      Hi Charlie

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the Standard is a good next step from a beginner board and could suit what you’re describing well. It’s not the kind of board that’s king in powder – but it does pretty well in there, and even better if you use the slam back inserts on a pow day (note that if you have bindings with a mini-disc then the slam backs aren’t accessible). Size-wise for you, I would go 162. You could also ride the 159 for this board, but I think based on your specs and how you like to ride, the 162 would be your best bet, IMO.

      Since it sounds like you’re out East, it’s also a good option, being good in hard/icy conditions (not that you can’t get those out West as well!). Quite a few on this list would also do the job quite nicely, including the Mountain Twin & Rossignol One.

      Based on your riding style, you could also check out something from here:

      >> My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards

      But just note that those are another step up – a bit stiffer and more technical. But also better for speed/powder/carving. If you feel like you’re an advanced rider, then those become options for sure. But if you feel like you’re more bordering intermediate/advanced, then something from this list is probably a better bet.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

69. Tom says

    July 9, 2019 at 5:10 pm

    Hi Nate
    This is a great site with loads of information.

    I’m a bit stuck. I’m 6ft, 88kg, UK size 10 boot and am a beginner/intermediate, I can happily link turns and get down the mountain fairly smoothly, not really been doing jumps but something I’d like an option to do, I like the boarder cross sections, I also like powder but usually just whats to the side of a mountain run. I like to carve and go fast as well. I’ve only been snowboarding for a few years and generally only go once a year for about a week or so. I’ve only snowboarded in Europe. I’ve usually hired a board or borrowed one from a friend. I try to get a size around 159cm, but to be honest I don’t really know whats best for me size wise. I am looking to get myself a board now as its summer and prices’ll be the best they are all year. Could you recommend something which will keep me improving with not too bad a learning curve since it’ll only be used once a year? I’d like an all rounder, mainly for slope riding but with options for the park and powder.
    Any ideas, so many boards I have no idea where to start and want to make sure I don’t buy something which I’m going to struggle with or alternatively be too slow or too much of a beginner board. In the past I’ve looked at the Jones Mountain Twin, the Yes Standard and saw Capitas Outer Space Living looked good, all based on some of the comments here and other things I’ve read on your site, but those comments look to be a few years old. Are those boards still relevant? However I don’t want this to influence your advice so whatever you think would be great thanks.
    Thank you
    Tom

    Reply

    • Tom says

      July 9, 2019 at 5:26 pm

      Hi Nate
      Apologies, I’ve just looked at some old photos of several boards I’ve hired and they all look to be 157cm if that makes a difference.
      Thanks Tom

      Reply

      • Nate says

        July 11, 2019 at 2:34 am

        Hi Tom

        Thanks for your messages.

        Size-wise, I would say to go with something in the range 158-160. To give you a size that suits your specs, but works for that beginner/intermediate level and something that won’t take long to get your legs back, given that you’re only be on it once a year. And 157 definitely doable too, if your comfortable with that.

        Width-wise, with UK10s, you’re kind of on the cuff between wide and normal width, so it’s best to look at it on a board by board basis, in terms of width.

        Those boards are certainly still relevant (this list is updated every year), and I think you’re in the right place for what you’re describing. Something all-mountain/do-it-all would work well, IMO – and most boards here are going to work well for a progressing intermediate rider. Pretty much anything on this list would work – except maybe the Arbor Coda Rocker and Niche Story (which I will be adjusting for flex when I update for 2020 models) which might be a little too stiff.

        The Outerspace Living is what I would term all-mountain-freestyle – but it’s a little better in powder than most all-mtn-freestyle boards, so that would be suitable too. Particularly if you weren’t going to be going in any deeper powder. Another that fits that bill would be the Salomon Assassin.

        The Mountain Twin and Standard certainly great options too. The 2020 model of the Mountain Twin looks like it has a twin tip and tail now (the tip used to be 1cm longer than the tail) – so if that’s accurate, then it’s a little more freestyle oriented now and not as good in powder, but would still be decent. I hadn’t heard that it was getting changed up but that’s what the specs in the catalog are showing (I didn’t re-ride the 2020 model but I rode the 2019 model). Jones still consider it directional twin, so I don’t think it’s really changed.

        I’d say anything like the Standard, West, Mountain Twin, Team Gullwing, One LF would all be great choices for what you’re describing. If you wanted something a little more easy going, you could also check out:

        >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

        Hope this helps with your decision

        Reply

70. ted rogers says

    June 3, 2019 at 7:04 am

    Adding to my previous post:

    Size 9 boot.

    and, how crazy of an idea is the twinpig, or a GNU headspace for me?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      June 3, 2019 at 12:38 pm

      Hi Ted

      I would be more inclined to stick more with the likes of an all-mountain board. The Twinpig and Headspace are more freestyle/park oriented. The Headspace in particular – which is also quite an aggressive camber profile, and is not going to be great in powder. I haven’t ridden it but based on specs and my experience of similar GNU boards.

      I haven’t ridden the Twinpig either, so just basing on specs and riding other ride boards. I would say it’s going to be better than the Headspace for powder, but still not as good as something like the One LF, Standard, West or Team Gullwing. Otherwise it could possibly work. The sizing is a little tricky. It’s a short/wide. I think the 151 is getting too big to be ideal, given the width, so I would say that the 148 would be your best bet size with the Twinpig (the 142 too short I would say). It’s just whether going to 148 is going short enough to compensate for the extra width or not. And also to consider is that you’re looking at less effective edge than the other options if you go for that. Which is fine in powder, and if you were going to be riding mostly freestyle, but might effect you for carving and stability at speed (even if you’re not going to riding super fast). The effective edge on the 148 is 108.5cm, which is 2.1cm shorter than the 110.6cm on the 149 Standard (which is the shortest effective edge of all the other options). And 2.1cm can definitely make a difference there. Finally, since you’re looking for that grip in hard/icy conditions, I would be a little concerned there too. My experience with other Ride boards suggests it wouldn’t be as good as some of the other options we’ve discussed. So an option, but in my opinion a more risky option.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

71. ted rogers says

    June 1, 2019 at 2:12 pm

    Wow, Nate, what incredible work you’re doing here. I’ve been reading and comparing boards for hours! My specs don’t seem to fit anyone specifically above, so I thought I’d get your assessment.

    5’9 135 pounds
    44 years old, fit but not super athletic
    Burton custom bindings
    Burton ruler wide boots
    Been using some wide K2 board from the 90s that is really stiff, long and camber, I think 26.5 width

    Been snowboarding for 4 years, probably lower intermediate. Getting better at carving and speed.

    I am NOT:

    jibbing, park, large jumps or bombing down going super fast

    I WOULD like to – (these are not in order of preference):

    – handle ice and chop in Crested Butte, CO – there was a decent amount of this last year and a problem for me
    – explore learining powder (CB has powder, I’ve stayed mostly on groomers)
    – ride switch, I enjoy doing that
    – carve,
    – have fun at slow speeds (learn to butter), but be plenty stable for CB rougher conditions
    – learn tree runs

    After reading, just to show that I’m paying attention, I think you might recommend:

    151 Yes standard or 153 Rossi One?

    But I’m open to anything!

    Ted

    Reply

    • Nate says

      June 3, 2019 at 12:28 pm

      Hi Ted

      You have been listening! 🙂 – those two I would certainly recommend for what you’re describing and those sizes are good options too.

      For the Standard I’d almost be looking at the 149 for your weight and considering the width is still going to be plenty for 9s, IMO, with the width of the Standard being a little wider at the inserts than the waist width would suggest. And also since you’re not looking to ride ultra-fast. But the 151 is also a good size for you, will be a little better for powder, and since you’re used to a bigger board by the sounds of it, it’s still going to feel smaller than what you’ve got. So, I’d probably still go 151 over 149 – but the 149 would certainly be an option. The One LF’s smallest size in 153, so no real room for debate there. Both are quite buttery and both are still fun at slow speeds. I would be leaning towards Standard, only just, just because I like the size options are a little better for you.

      The Nitro Team Gullwing (152) and NS West (152) would be great options too. Not quite as good in hard/icy conditions as the Standard and One LF, in my experience, but still good.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • ted rogers says

        June 3, 2019 at 2:07 pm

        Thank you so much for all the consideration of specs and recommendation!

        The Nitro Team Gullwing (152)

        is looking really good right now price-wise

        I may go for that!

        Reply

        • ted rogers says

          June 3, 2019 at 2:12 pm

          Is the Nitro Team Exposure Gullwing the same board as the Nitro Team Gullwing?

          Your review links to the Exposure version, and the exposure version is less expensive.

          Reply

          • Nate says

            June 4, 2019 at 11:23 am

            Hi Ted

            Yeah same board – the only difference is the graphics. The “Exposure” part of the name is in reference to how the graphic has been created.

          • ted rogers says

            June 4, 2019 at 12:18 pm

            Ordered, using your link. Thanks so much for your help!

            It’s going to be a while before I can report back on it though, we just hit summer here in CB…

          • Nate says

            June 5, 2019 at 2:38 pm

            Hey Ted

            Awesome! And thanks for going through the link. Much appreciated. If you do remember when winter rolls back around, let me know how you get on.

72. Gustavo says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:07 pm

    Hi Nate,

    When i had my last time on the slope, i got rossignol “one” and i liked it, but i think it was small for me (153), sometimes i had speed and didn´t have stability. I´m 1,77 m and 74 kg with 9,5 boots. I started looking Burton Process V, but when i knew your review i think the Burton Custom V is more appropriate. Sometimes i like speed and powder too, i´m search a real all mountain. My friend said that my size is 158. I don´t have much experience but i like challenges. What board do you recommend and size?

    Thanks,

    Gustavo

    Reply

    • Nate says

      May 7, 2019 at 9:48 am

      Hi Gustavo

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah 153 is a bit small for you, IMO. I would say something around 157, 158 at an advanced level. But if you don’t have much experience, then I would go smaller than that. Assuming an intermediate level, I think something between 154 and 156 would be your best bet. The Rossignol One would be a good choice, but I would go for the 156 for you.

      For the Custom Flying V, if you went with that one, then the 156 is likely your best bet there too.

      Most of the boards on this list should be appropriate, assuming an intermediate level, at around that 155, 156 length. The Arbor Coda Rocker and Niche Story might be bordering on being a little too stiff, but otherwise, the rest are great options. You could also check out, if you wanted:

      >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Gustavo says

        May 7, 2019 at 5:26 pm

        Thanks Nate!

        What do you think about Burton Process (Camber) instead of these? I asked you because i would like to buy a board that i can use for a long time…

        Reply

        • Nate says

          May 8, 2019 at 10:46 am

          Hi Gustavo

          Firstly, just for your info. The latest versions of the Process camber are actually Burton’s “PurePop camber” which is slightly different to traditional camber, where there are flat sections before the contact points. So, a little more forgiving than traditional camber, but still a little on the catchy side. As an intermediate rider (assuming that’s a correct assumption) it would definitely be doable. Older versions of the Process camber are traditional camber (like the Custom camber is). Traditional camber can be very unforgiving if you’re not used to it, or if you’re still learning. But also has it’s advantages.

          The Process is quite soft though as well, so if you’re wanting more of an all-mountain option that will last you a long time, then it might be a bit soft for what you’re after. And performance in powder for traditional camber and purepop isn’t that great in my experience, so if you’re looking to getting into riding powder later or already are, then that’s a downside.

          My instinct tells me that, in your case, you would be better off looking at something with a more forgiving camber profile but a stiffer flex (a medium flex ideally). Something with a lot of versatility – which is what this list is all about. So I would go for the Rossignol One before the Process Camber – or other options like the Standard, West, Mountain Twin, Team Gullwing. These are all boards that are very versatile and that would stay with you for a long time, IMO.

          Reply

          • Gustavo says

            May 9, 2019 at 8:54 am

            Thanks Nate!

            It was great! I’m thinking about rossignol one now!

            Gustavo

          • Nate says

            May 9, 2019 at 10:04 am

            You’re very welcome Gustavo.

73. Jimmy says

    April 19, 2019 at 8:27 am

    Hi Nate,

    At 80kg/175lbs would 159-160cm be too long for all mountain, say for the Yes Std or Jones Mtn Twin?
    Cruising and carving mostly, popping off bumps here and there.
    Pretty limited board choices where I live :-/

    Cheers,
    Jimmy

    Reply

    • Nate says

      April 20, 2019 at 6:33 pm

      Hi Jimmy

      Thanks for your message.

      To give an accurate recommendation, I would need your height and boot size too. I suspect with the Standard that 156 would be better, but it would depend on boot size for that board. For the Mountain Twin, depending on height, the 160 could work, but if you could let me know height and boot size, that would help to make a more accurate recommendation.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jimmy says

        April 21, 2019 at 3:17 am

        Thanks Nate really appreciate it.

        That would be 178cm (5-8) & Mondo 26.
        Also found a place online with a Niche Story 159 and a Nitro team GW 157 so maybe a bit more choice there after all.

        Been great reading through all the reviews on your site, thanks for sharing the info.

        Cheers,
        Jimmy

        Reply

        • Nate says

          April 22, 2019 at 2:20 pm

          Hi Jimmy

          Thanks for the extra info.

          Yeah I would say definitely 156 for the Standard. For the Mountain Twin, I think 157 would actually be better – both 157 and 160 are a little wider than ideal for your foot size, but going a little shorter can compensate for that extra width. For that same reason, I would be leaning more towards the Team Gullwing 157, over the 159 Story. Also, if you only have Standard 159, Mountain Twin 160, Story 159 and Team Gullwing 157, then I think the Team GW 157 is your best bet.

          Reply

          • Jimmy says

            April 22, 2019 at 10:25 pm

            Thanks!!

          • Nate says

            April 23, 2019 at 1:38 pm

            You’re very welcome Jimmy!

74. Mario says

    April 15, 2019 at 10:58 am

    Hi Nate,
    I have read some reviews about Yes Stadard board and Union Flacor bindings, and i have one doubt…
    Can you set this bindings (mini discs) in the slam back inserts of my yes standard?????

    Reply

    • Nate says

      April 15, 2019 at 2:21 pm

      Hi Mario

      Thanks for your message.

      Unfortunately with Union bindings with the mini-disc they won’t go on the slam back inserts of the YES Standard. Union bindings with their Universal Disc will, but not the mini-disc. Something like the Union Atlas or Union Force would be a great choice for the Standard, if you’re using the Slam Back inserts and wanting to go with Union.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

75. Dave says

    April 13, 2019 at 8:07 am

    Nate
    I have read a few of your posts and you provide straightforward info. I have a few questions, been riding since 90, last board I purchased and am still riding is a 1996 burton supermodel, 162, have been thinking about getting a new board. I have ridden everything(parks, pipes, back country) and everywhere(Tahoe, van b.c, alps, to big bear) looking for an all mountain board. It appears that so much has changed regarding board technology and needing some help. Looking for a board that it a litttle more forgiving than the supermodel especially later in the day when I begin to get tired at 48 years old, but still want to ride with my two boys. The burton still rides well and works great but have been hearing about the shift in technology and has me thinking of adding a new board to my quiver. I am an advanced rider.

    Reply

    • Dave says

      April 13, 2019 at 10:37 am

      Also was looking for a single board that can do anything I need it to do, more of a replacement for the burton. Also I am 5-7 and weigh 175. Was looking at the Lib Tech as well as the Yes board that you listed as the number 1 and the Never Summer West, thoughts?

      Reply

      • Dave says

        April 13, 2019 at 10:51 am

        Lib tech is the t.rice pro model. I know burton and libtech have been the standard of boards in the past but I am not married to that. I do like the idea of the mag-edges on the lib tech, but the rocker, camber, rocker on the yes seems like a more forgiving board, given that layout, thanks in advance. Dave.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          April 15, 2019 at 11:55 am

          Hi Dave

          Thanks for your messages.

          Yeah definitely tech has come a long way since 1996.

          In terms of rocker-camber-rocker (hybrid camber), I wouldn’t say that it’s necessarily more forgiving that camber-rocker-camber (hybrid rocker). In some ways hybrid rocker can feel more forgiving – having that pivot of rocker between the feet. But it also depends as not all hybrid cambers and hybrid rockers are the same. Some have more exaggerated camber sections, some have more exaggerated rocker sections – and some have longer sections of camber and longer sections of rocker – so it really depends (a lot more complicated than everything being traditional camber I know!).

          The T Rice Pro has quite a forgiving hybrid rocker profile, but overall it’s relatively aggressive (quite stiff). So, in this particular case, I would say that something like the YES Standard is a little more forgiving.

          Another thing I would say is that Hybrid Camber has a more similar feel to Traditional Camber vs Hybrid Rocker, IMO – in most cases. Some exceptions – some Lib Tech/GNU boards have a hybrid rocker called C3 Camber, which is very close to traditional camber, with a very subtle rocker section between the feet.

          But all that said, I think since you’re looking for something a little forgiving, and since you’ve been riding traditional camber since 1990, I think Hybrid camber would be the way to go.

          Burton and Lib Tech still make great boards, but there are a lot of other brands making really great boards now too. YES being one of those brands that’s got some great decks.

          So, in terms of the Never Summer West – that’s a hybrid rocker, so would be a bigger adjustment to what you’re used to. It’s a hybrid rocker that’s heavier on the camber, which certainly makes it doable, but would be a more different feel than what you’re used to, IMO.

          I think the YES Standard, Jones Mountain Twin or Rossignol One LF would be your best bets. These 3 are also good in hard/icy conditions, which I’m guessing is what you like the sound of the Mag-tech edges for. Certainly not writing others off, but I think these would be the best bets.

          Size-wise, typically you ride a little shorter these days than with older boards. So you could certainly size-down as well – and that would also make things more forgiving too. Normally I would recommend something around 157 for your specs, as an advanced rider, for an all-mountain board. Since you’re used to a 162, you might want to go for something in between, so that you’re not making too big an adjustment. For the boards mentioned, I would say:

          – YES Standard 156 (this is a wider board, so depending on boot size, I’d probably stick to the 156, but if you’ve got larger boots, the 159 could be a possibility too)

          – Jones Mountain Twin 157 or 160 – or 158W depending on boot size

          – Rossignol One LF – 156 or 159 – or 157W or 161W depending on boot size and how much you are willing to size down

          Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

          Reply

          • dave says

            April 16, 2019 at 6:10 pm

            nate
            thanks for all the info i think i am going to go with the yes board, decade basic seems to be a good fit, has the rocker/camber/rocker that you. suggested. i have opted for the 161 in size as i was looking for the 158 but have had no luck finding it so the couple inch diff should not be a big deal . hoping to get on it and have some spring time fun in the next month. will let you know my feedback, have you rode this board?
            dave

          • Nate says

            April 17, 2019 at 5:02 pm

            Hi Dave

            Thanks for the update. Look forward to hearing what you think. The Basic Decade is actually one of the only YES boards I haven’t had a chance to ride.

76. Mario says

    April 1, 2019 at 9:11 am

    Hi Nate,
    First of all thank you so much for your reviews!
    Following your recommendations I bought a Yes Standar (156) this season. My riding style is all-mointaneer and backcountry whenever I can (not very often), closer to freeride. I’m 178 cms and my weight is 76kgs, do you think the Stendard 156 is the right board and size????
    I want to buy new bindings for the next seasons too, according to my riding style and this board what ones would do you recomend me???
    My first option is Burton but I dont’t know what model. Anyway Burton is not the only option.
    Thanks so much!!!

    P.D.: sorry if the english level is not appropriate!!!

    Reply

    • Mario says

      April 1, 2019 at 12:20 pm

      I forgot to add that my boot size is 9.5.

      Reply

      • Nate says

        April 1, 2019 at 1:30 pm

        Hi Mario

        Thanks for your messages.

        I would say that the Standard is more on the freestyle end of the all-mountain scale, rather than freeride, but certainly can handle freeriding/backcountry – especially if you put it into the slam back inserts when you get out in the backcountry. Size-wise, I think the 156 is a good size for you. I think the 159 would be big overall (taking into account length and width) for your height, weight and boot size. In fact you could even consider the 153 for this board. But that’s getting a little short. If you were going to be riding a lot of freestyle I would be weighing up 153 and 156 – but given your style I think the 156 is the best size for you, for sure.

        From Burton, I would pair the Standard with either the Malavitas, Cartels or Genesis X. Given your style is more freeride oriented, then I would go more for the Cartels or Genesis X. For other options check out:

        >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

        >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

        Hope this helps

        Reply

        • Mario says

          April 1, 2019 at 3:06 pm

          Thank you so much for your advices Nate.

          Reply

          • Nate says

            April 2, 2019 at 1:58 pm

            You’re very welcome Mario. Happy riding!

        • Mario says

          April 2, 2019 at 7:56 am

          Union Falcor looks great too…and a bit cheaper.

          Reply

          • Nate says

            April 2, 2019 at 1:58 pm

            Falcor would definitely work, IMO, with the Standard, especially if you’re leaning towards the freeride end of all-mountain riding.