The Top All Mountain Snowboards: My Top 10

Comments

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. 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

17. 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

18. 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.

19. 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

20. 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

21. 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!

22. 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

23. 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

24. 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

25. 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.

26. 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.

27. 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

28. 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.

29. 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

30. 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!

31. 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.

32. 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

33. 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

34. 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

35. 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

36. 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!

37. 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!

38. 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.

39. 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

40. 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!

41. 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

42. 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

43. 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

44. 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

45. 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

46. 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

47. 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.

48. 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.

49. 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!

50. 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

51. 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.

52. 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.

53. Sydnie says

    March 12, 2019 at 11:26 am

    Hi, Nate! I love your website! Thank you so much for helping me find my gear. I bought my set of board/binding/boots based on your recommendation last season and loving them!

    Now, I’m looking for a set of board and binding for my friend’s for his upcoming bday. Can you please help me out again? His riding skills: he has been going down black and double black diamonds at Heavenly and Toas Ski Valley this season. Most of his riding is just downhill and speed. He doesn’t do park much. He says he likes riding 172cm boards, but he had never owned one before.

    He’s 6’2. Currently, he weights 180lbs, but his weight fluctuates between 170-190lbs. He wears size 11 in the K2 Maysis boots.

    Thank you so much in advance for your advice and I look forward to hearing from you.

    Sydnie

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 13, 2019 at 4:58 pm

      Hi Syndie

      Thanks for your message.

      Since your friend is into speed and steeps, and doesn’t really do any freestyle, then he might want to look at a freeride board or an aggressive all-mountain board. Depending on if he rides powder/off-groomer a fair bit or mainly just likes to bomb the groomers. Check out the following for some good options (assuming, based on what you’re describing that he’s quite an advanced rider).

      >>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards

      >> My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards

      Size-wise, I would usually say something around 162 for an all-mountain type board – but certainly can add some length for a freeride board if he’s just riding fast and not doing any freestyle or any technical trees or anything like that. 172cm sounds really long, but some prefer to go really long. There aren’t too many options in that kind of length, but there are certainly some. I think something around 165 might be a better bet, but if he knows he prefers that, then a couple of options in that kind of length:

      – Jones Flagship 172 (and should be a good width for 11s too)
      – Ride Timeless 167 (even though it’s not up to 172, this is the stiffest board I’ve ever ridden and is quite wide too)
      – Burton Flight Attendant 168 – also not quite 172, but still a lengthy board and should be wide enough for 11s.
      – Rossignol XV 174W – on the wider side for 11s though, and even longer than 172, even for him this might be getting a bit big
      – Salomon Speedway 170 – should be good for 11s

      Hope this gives you some options

      Reply

      • Sydnie says

        March 15, 2019 at 8:17 am

        Hi, Nate,
        Thank you so much for your detailed recommendations! I’ll look into these boards.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 15, 2019 at 10:31 am

          You’re very welcome Sydnie (and apologies for spelling your name wrong in my last message).

          Reply

54. Pete says

    March 4, 2019 at 1:09 pm

    Hi Nate,

    Absolutely fantastic to read all your reviews and detailed answers! But same time all this knowledge is giving me a hard time to seek out the right board. I’m spending 80% of my time in European resorst and occasionally in treelines or powder and 20% in bigger slopes. Don’t like the parks or pipes, just some basic small jumps and ollies for time to time. So mainly what i’m looking for is good board to handle in the carving with all speeds. I would say i’m intermeditiate and I have rided last years Burton Parkitect 2015 with SP Labtec bindings and and quite stiff Burton shoes. I like the current board easines in turns and ok grib in carvings, but it starts to flop in higher speed and its not stable in those Saturday evenings bumpy conditionings.

    So I have been looking more stiffer board, but still wan’t to handle quite easy in slower speed with children or nice day cruising. I wonder if the Slash ATV is too stiff this kind of use, so i was thinking the Brainstorm or Jones Mountain Twin. Any good recommendations?

    I’m 175cm tall, 85kg and shoesize 41.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 5, 2019 at 3:15 pm

      Hi Pete

      Thanks for your message.

      The Slash ATV is quite an aggressive board and not necessarily the best for slowing down and playing around with. It’s pretty good at that for it’s flex and camber profile, compared to other similar boards, but all round that’s not really what that board is intended for. The Brainstorm is definitely something you can slow down and play around – not as good for carving and not as good at speed as the ATV, but definitely more easy going. The Mountain Twin is a good in between of those 2. A little stiffer, and a little less playful than the Brainstorm, but something that you can still slow down and play around on a bit. I think that would be your best bet, from what you’re describing.

      Size-wise, I think the 157 would be the best size for you, for the Mountain Twin – and for the Brainstorm, if you decided to go for that.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Pete says

        March 6, 2019 at 1:15 am

        Thanks!

        I think I will leave the Slash models this time and try look the Mountain Twin, all thought I´m quite late in this, so there is not much appropriate sizes available. I also looked the review of Capita Mercury and interested about the stability with some forgiveness. For that I founded good bargain for 157 size, so might go for that as well.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 6, 2019 at 2:38 pm

          Hi Pete

          Yeah, the Mercury would suit what you’re describing as well, IMO – and is something that’s more forgiving than the ATV but less playful than the Brainstorm. It’s probably a little more aggressive than the Mountain Twin but not by that much. The 157 would be a good size too, IMO.

          Reply

55. Chris says

    March 3, 2019 at 11:18 pm

    Hi Nate,

    I’m wanting to upgrade from my 1st board that I lean’t to snowboard on – a 161W Rome Mechanic. Although it was a great board to learn on, I feel like I’ve outgrown that board (particularly as it doesn’t seem to want to carve and is pretty washy when not on an edge) and am looking at these 3 All-Mountain boards:

    • Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker
    • Jones Mountain Twin
    • Never Summer West

    I’m wanting a general do-it-all board, which I can carve, ride switch on, hit kickers, bomb groomers and take through the trees. I don’t care much for the park and would prefer a more medium-flex feel than stiff – for the sake of my knees on those chopped up resort days! I also spend a fair bit of time under lights night boarding, which more often than not is on hard crusty snow/ice.

    I’m 6’2’’, pushing 220lbs with my gear on and have size 10 Thirty-Two Lashed boots. I guess my 1st question is what board from the above 3 do you recommend (or some other board) and then my 2nd question is what size do you recommend for me, especially in relation to whether you think I need a wide board? I tend to ride a 15/-9 binding set-up, however I’ve noticed on my Rome Mechanic that my bindings are on the bottom rung of the 3 set of screw holes (Burton Mission Re-Flex) and my boots are still not quite flush with the edge of the board yet – does this mean my board is too wide?

    Thanks for your website and all the help/tips that it gives to us newbies and veterans, it is very greatly appreciated!

    Chris

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2019 at 4:47 pm

      Hi Chris

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, with size 10s and +15/-9 binding angles (or pretty much any aangles really) I don’t think you need to be going wide. And if your boots aren’t overhanging the boards edges at all, then it sounds like your current board is too wide. Some boot overhang is a good thing. Obviously you don’t want so much that you get boot drag when carving, but it sounds like your feet (which are ultimately what is putting pressure on the edges) are quite far inside the edges of the board. Ideally you want to get your feet as close to the edges or even slightly over, to get good leverage on the edges. If your feet are too far inside the edges, then it’s hard to initiate turns (the exception is with short/wide boards – but they make up for that lack of maneuverability by being ridden at a shorter length).

      In terms of length, I would be looking at anything from 162 to 164 as a good all-mountain length for your specs.

      The 3 boards you’ve mentioned are all good options. I’ve yet to ride the Terrain Wrecker (I was meant to ride it on the weekend but it fell through, but hope to get on this month or in April) but I’ve heard good things. In terms of hard/icy conditions, I would say the Terrain Wrecker is likely to be just above the other 2, but the MT and West both have decent edgehold in hard/icy, so I think you’d get on with all 3 in that sense – just the Terrain Wrecker potentially a notch above.

      You can’t really go wrong with any of those 3.

      Size-wise, I would say:

      • Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker: 160
      • Jones Mountain Twin: 162
      • Never Summer West: 162

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Chris says

        March 5, 2019 at 10:20 am

        Hi Nate,

        Do you think the 160cm Terrain Wrecker will be slightly undersized for me or can it be ridden “shorter” due to the wider specs of the board?

        I was also looking at the Lib Tech TRS and Travis Rice Pro models which come in 161.5/162cm models – do you think either of these would be a better fit for me or close to that of the Terrain Wrecker? I’m pretty keen to try that MagnaTech edge technology from Lib Tech.

        Thanks heaps!

        Chris

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 5, 2019 at 4:35 pm

          Hi Chris

          Yeah sizing down when it’s a little wider is definitely something you can do. With the Terrain Wrecker, it’s wider at the waist, but Lib Tech boards tend to have a smaller difference between the width at inserts and waist width – based on measuring other sizes of the MT and West, and other Lib Tech boards, I would say the Width at inserts of each of those is likely to be:

          • Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker: 160 – 265mm
          • Jones Mountain Twin: 162 – 269mm
          • Never Summer West: 162 – 264mm

          In saying that though, the overall width is a little wider on the Terrain Wrecker, so prob a little more surface area overall there.

          The MT & West 162 are probably slightly better sizes, IMO. But the 160 Terrain Wrecker could work for you too.

          The TRS and T Rice Pro are slightly different boards. More freestyle oriented and less directional. The TRS is a true twin and centered. The T Rice Pro is also centered but directional twin, so a little more all-mountain-ish. But it’s also medium-stiff flex, IMO, and it sounds like you were more looking for medium. The TRS is more medium, but more freestyle oriented. Not necessarily something you wouldn’t suit you though. Biggest weakness would be in powder I would say. But you can check out more on what I thought of those two below:

          >>Lib Tech TRS Review

          >>Lib Tech T Rice Pro Review

          Hope this helps

          Reply

          • Chris says

            March 7, 2019 at 12:14 pm

            Thanks Nate,

            I also agree that 160cm is prob not ideal for me, as I demo’d a 160cm NS Chairman on the weekend and it felt too small (and far too-stiff) to me.

            Your reviews of the two Lib Tech boards pointed me towards checking out the top 5 Freestyle-All Mountain boards, where I found the GNU Riders Choice which is available in 161.5cm. From the specs, it seems to me that this is almost identical to the Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker, except being an Asym Twin vs True Twin shape. I would think GNU and Lib Tech boards would be very similar given both share the same tech and are made by Mervin.

            Anyway I’m going to check out them all this weekend at my local shops, as there’s some good deals getting around now.

          • Nate says

            March 8, 2019 at 9:54 am

            Hi Chris

            Yeah definitely very similar tech between Mervin boards.

            Terrain Wrecker and Rider’s Choice quite similar in a lot of ways. The Terrain Wrecker is a Directional Twin, rather than True Twin though – the nose is a little longer than the tail (past the contact points) I believe, so it should float a little better in powder vs the Rider’s Choice, especially when set back. But otherwise, they both have C2X, similar widths, similar sidecut, similar contact length etc. So yeah, quite similar, like you say.

            Let me know what you go with.

56. Ryan Farr says

    March 3, 2019 at 11:27 am

    Super great detail on all your posts…beyond amazing and the devotion and time you put in is above excellent. With a but of a time crunch i did settle on a Capita DOA due to convenience, price and it did have some good reviews. Its the first time i’ve ridden a a true twin, I’m 48, been riding since 1984 but so many years after college dropped of a bit but now picking it up. I do like big strong carves and jumps but now trying my hand at the park. The twin is taking a bit to get used. A couple questions: did you demo the DOA? Wondering your thoughts on it. Also why do a lot of sites leave out the Yes brand out of their top list for all mountain boards? I really want to get a Yes Standard in the off season hopefully on a good deal. So many boards and I truly got analysis paralysis…seems the only true test is to ride them. Unfortunately we can’t and have to just decide. I’m 6’0″ 195 got the DOA 160 with K2 Lein AT bindings. You would for sure recommend the Yes Standard? and in what size? I’m up for anything that would have a learning curve. Thanks in advance. Oh and my previous board was a Lamar Mission…yeah I know, I can’t believe what i’ve been missing. Quality boards are sooooo much worth it.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2019 at 3:38 pm

      Hi Ryan

      Thanks for your message.

      I have ridden the DOA, and I like it – you can see my review here. It’s something that i like to ride a little smaller and certainly ride mostly freestyle on it.

      No idea why anyone would leave YES boards off their lists. They make some of the better boards I’ve ridden. Perhaps, they see the Standard as more all-mountain-freestyle – and there is an argument that you could put it in that category – or maybe they just haven’t ridden YES boards? Who knows.

      I would say that the Standard is a little more snappy/lively than the DOA. No such thing as a perfect board, but it does most things very well – and I really like the feel of it. In terms of size, I would say probably the 159, but if you can also let me know your boot size, I can give a more accurate recommendation/opinion on size. The Lien ATs would be a good match for the Standard too – so you wouldn’t need to change bindings, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • ryan Farr says

        March 4, 2019 at 6:07 pm

        Size 9 1/2 boot. There is a review that put the DOA in the top freestyle list. So I”m assuming theres a fine line with some of these boards from freestyle to all mountain. I cant wait to try to Standard. Do you recommend waxing it over the factory wax?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 5, 2019 at 4:05 pm

          Hi Ryan

          Yeah definitely a fine line for some of the categories and depending on who you talk to, different boards will belong in different categories, for sure.

          It’s a close call between the 159 and 156 for the Standard for you, IMO. Usually I would say 159 for sure or even 162. But since the Standard is a little wider, it’s sometimes a good idea to go shorter, depending on boot size. For an all-mountain board, I would usually go around 159, but for the Standard I like the 156 – I find it’s the best balance of length and width (I’m 6’0″, 185lbs, size 10 boot). So you could definitely ride the 159, but it is going to be quite wide for 9.5s. The 156 is short for your specs, but it’s still on the wide side for 9.5s – so sizing down is certainly an option. 159 is already a bit of a size down for you, IMO. So it’s just whether to size down to 159 or 156.

          The advantages of 159 over 156 include more stability at speed, more float in powder, a larger landing platform.

          The advantages of 156 are more maneuverability, better for freestyle type things, better in trees.

          In terms of waxing, I usually ride the factory wax for a couple of days and then give it a wax. I don’t rewax that regularly but I tend to give it a first wax earlier, when it’s straight from the factory wax. No harm in giving it a wax straight away as well. But I personally don’t bother until I’ve had a couple of days on it.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

          • ryan says

            March 5, 2019 at 8:13 pm

            Great info. What about the Never Summer West size? Is that a size down type of board as well?

          • Nate says

            March 6, 2019 at 2:23 pm

            Hi Ryan

            I wouldn’t size down for the West. It’s a regular widthed board (in the non-wide sizes of course).

            For the West, I would be weighing up between the 159 & 162 for you – again which one you go for will depend on the qualities you want to augment – go longer for more stability at speed, more float in powder, a larger landing platform. And shorter for more maneuverability, better for freestyle type things, better in trees.

            Hope this helps

57. Jim says

    March 3, 2019 at 6:08 am

    Nate,

    Great site.
    Looking for a new board to work on riding switch and just playing around a bit more.’
    Stats: 6’2″ 175 lbs. 30 years of boarding. Freeride guy.

    Currently on a NS 25X. Great board, may need to try the PYL next year.

    So I could stay NS, and go with a West or a Type II.
    YES Standard possibly, or Brainstorm?

    Thoughts?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2019 at 3:19 pm

      Hi Jim

      Thanks for your message.

      Yeah the 25 was a great board – shame they took it out of the line (though the Chairman is a good replacement). If you were to stick with NS, I think the PT2 would be the best compliment to the 25. It’s the most different. It’s a freestyle oriented ride, and more suitable for switch than the West (though the West is pretty good for switch too). But yeah, just a better compliment I reckon. Not as good in powder, but if you’ve got the 25 for that, then you’ve got that covered. And you’re still not going like super soft or like going with a really loose ride with the PT2. It’s still aggressive enough and mid-flex. Certainly not a noodle or anything.

      The Brainstorm is quite a playful all-mountain ride. If you want something a lot more playful than the NS 25, but still want something that’s a little more directional, then the Brainstorm would be a good choice, but not going to be as good riding switch as something like the PT2 or Standard.

      The Standard would be a good option. Good for switch, particularly when on the centered stance – and something you can play around with a bit more. Not ultra-playful – can still get a little aggressive on it.

      You should also check out the Greats, if you’re looking for that more playful ride, without going too playful, but being great for riding switch. And also check out the following:

      >>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards

      If you don’t need something for powder, then that list is a good place to start, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

58. adrian says

    March 3, 2019 at 1:29 am

    Hello Nate
    I just realized posting questions here instead of in emails is preferable to you. Please ignore my email and my apologies for any inconvenience!
    I’m 5’9, 135 pounds, boot size 9 and on the lower end of advanced rider. I currently ride a down sized box knife 148 which works well enough for an all mountain freestyle ride(with more effort to keep it stable at high speeds of course). But for my riding progress I’d like to see a more stable platform at speeds and bigger jumps/more pow riding, same carving ability, similar edge hold, quick edge to edge transition, lastly doable for ground tricks/jibbing. I live in asia so for my needs the available options are(based on my research) :
    longer box knife at 151
    typo 152
    standard 149
    Which one you think suit my needs better or if you have other recommendations?
    Sorry about duplicated/length message and I’d love to hear your thoughts
    Also big thanks to your effort on building such a wonderful site, can not thank you enough for educating us snowboarding lovers!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2019 at 2:42 pm

      Hi Adrian

      Thanks for your message.

      From everything you’re describing, I would say go for the Standard. But I would maybe even be looking to go up to the 151 Standard, if you have it available.

      The 151 Box Knife and 152 Typo are going to give you a little more in terms of carving, powder and speed vs the 148 Box Knife, but the difference will be greater with the Standard, IMO – even the 149.

      The 151 Standard is a little wider than what you’re riding now (at the inserts) but not a huge amount, and I think it would work fine with 9s (and not that much wider than the 151 Box Knife). And will give you even more in terms of stability at speed, stability on landings off big jumps, powder and carving. The 149 would be quicker edge to edge and easier for ground tricks/jibbing, so there is a compromise, but the 151 would still be doable for those things. So both are options depending on if you want a more pronounced difference in terms of stability at speed etc, or if you’re happy with a less pronounced difference there, and maintaining a quicker edge to edge transition/jib/ground trick ability.

      The 149 would still give you more in terms of speed/pow/stability on landings, IMO, vs the 148 Box Knife and I would go with that over the 151 Box Knife and 152 Typo for what you’re describing, but the 151 is also a good option, if you’re wanting even more in terms of stiffness/speed etc.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Adrian says

        March 5, 2019 at 8:43 pm

        Thanks so much for your time and patience! Your input is very helpful/insightful. Thanks again for your great effort replying so many questions and such a wonderful site. Good luck with everything Nate

        Reply

      • Adrian says

        March 6, 2019 at 3:49 am

        Hello again Nate
        Based on your helpful input now I’m definitely going for a standard. It’s somehow difficult for me to choose from 149 and 151 since trying one on is not an option. I had a west mark rocker in wrong size 153 which was a chore to turn or maneuver. Not sure if it was the profile or length tho. Also my boot size is 9 in Burton but actually 8.5 in vans aura (my current boots). You still think I’ll be able to drive the 151 with agility?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 6, 2019 at 2:35 pm

          Hi Adrian

          A couple of things to consider.

          1. The rocker profile on the Westmark rocker, if anything should have made it easier to maneuver, so I would say that it wasn’t the camber profile.

          2. But the Westmark does have a lot of effective edge vs overall length. I’m guessing the Westmark Rocker you had was around 2015 or prior (just because since then they haven’t had a 153). The effective edge (EE) on the 2015 and prior 153 Westmark rockers was 119.6cm – which is a lot for a 153. The EE in comparison on the 151 Standard is only 112.3 – so the 151 Standard, in that sense should feel significantly less than the 153 Westmark rocker.

          3. It’s more the length of your feet that drive the board, so a different sized boot won’t change your leverage, at least not significantly. But yeah, I think the 151 would still be fine in the 8.5 Auras.

          It’s a tough one, but i would be leaning towards 151 still, especially if you’re looking to keep the 148 Box Knife – then it also gives you a bigger contrast in your quiver.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

59. Martyn says

    March 2, 2019 at 7:57 am

    Hi Nate

    Sorry to ask another question here I’ve actually realized my boots are 11.5 Salomon dialogues (not 11) as per my earlier thread. I ride normally -15/+15 angles and so far have not had any issues with heel or toe drag on the Salomon 158w, this has a width of 258mm. Just checked and the 162 explorer has a width of 256 so it’s slightly narrower but not sure it would be an issue or not? The other alternative is a get the 161W explorer as this has a width of 264mm but it’s only up to 200lbs weight vs the 162 at 210lbs. I’m currently 194 without gear. What do you think? I’m not doing super deep euro carves (I’m 43 so just want to get down intact 😉 would appreciate any thoughts as I can get either size currently… cheers

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 4, 2019 at 1:48 pm

      Hi Martyn

      Typically I’d say go a little wider than the 162 Explorer with 11.5s. However, given that Jones boards are usually wider at the inserts vs waist width than Salomon boards are, I would suspect that the Explorer is actually as wide as your Salomon 158W at the inserts. Potentially even a little wider. So, since you haven’t had any issues on your Salomon and since you ride with +15/-15 angles and aren’t doing any massively deep carves I think you’ll be fine on the 162. I wouldn’t worry too much about the weight guidelines. Think weight wise you would be fine on either (and they typically go off weight without gear, anyway).

      Both would work, but if you’re used to the width of your Salomon and don’t have any issues on it width-wise, then I think you’ll be fine on the 162.

      Reply

60. Martyn says

    March 1, 2019 at 3:31 am

    Hi Nate

    I’m going to upgrade from a Salomon sight 158w to a Jones explorer but had a question on sizing. I’m 194lbs (without gear), 180cms tall and wear a size 11 boot.
    I think I’ll need the 162 rather than the 159 as it’s a similar width to my current board and I’m poss a little heavy for the 159. Wasn’t sure if I’d notice the extra length? I’m mainly cruising groomers, carving and a little powder when I can get it in the alps. Any help appreciated before I pull the trigger online….

    Reply

    • Nate says

      March 1, 2019 at 11:48 am

      Hi Martyn

      Thanks for your message.

      For the Explorer, I agree that the 162 is likely the best size. The Explorer is something that can be ridden longer as it has a shorter effective edge vs overall length than most boards (actually has a very similar effective edge to the 158W Sight) – so I don’t think you’ll notice that length until you’re in powder, at which point that extra length is a good thing. And in any case sizing up a bit from 158W is probably a good idea for your specs, especially if you’re just carving, riding groomers and powder. And I’m guessing your 158W Sight was sized for you as a less advanced rider than what you are now – so with more experience sizing up can also be a good idea.

      So all round, I think the 162 is a better option. And should be fine for size 11 boots, assuming you don’t ride with too straight a back foot binding angle. But yeah, likely to be about the same width as the 158W Sight in any case, and if you didn’t have any issues there, then I’d say you’ll be fine width-wise.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Martyn says

        March 1, 2019 at 11:53 am

        Thanks Nate

        Appreciate the fast response. Your site is a really great resource and your hands on advice is amazing !

        Thanks again… off to do a bit of internet shopping now 🙂

        Reply

        • Nate says

          March 1, 2019 at 4:16 pm

          You’re very welcome Martyn. Hope you have a great rest of your season and enjoy your new board!

          Reply

61. Peps says

    February 22, 2019 at 3:25 am

    Thank you for anwering Nate.
    I ordered 152. Tell me what wax you would use on her. And what bindings to it (I think about Burton Malavita) but it’s hard to get size S (25cm) but I think shoes would take 25 + 1cm (Adidas Reaponse ADV Boa). What do you think about this statement.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 22, 2019 at 12:37 pm

      Hi Peps

      The Malalvita would be a good match, IMO. With 8.5 boots, the Medium would actually be the best size for the Malavita, rather than the Small. You could also check out the following, which would all match well with the West.

      >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

      Reply

62. Peps says

    February 18, 2019 at 10:15 pm

    Hey! A great guide. I wonder about the purchase of Never Summer West, but its minimum length is 152. Only the Never Summer version of West Lady has a length of 149. What would you advise on the increase of 167cm, weight 68kg, foot US 8.5.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 19, 2019 at 4:00 pm

      Hi Peps

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the 152 would actually be a great size for your specs. Assuming you are a relatively advanced rider (at least solid intermediate), then it would be a good length – and the width should be fine too for 8.5s. Width at inserts is likely around 256mm (estimated, based on measuring different size), which is good for 8.5s, IMO. Unless you are a beginner (in which case the West probably isn’t the best option), I think the 152 is fine for you.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

63. Stephen says

    February 18, 2019 at 1:24 am

    Great site and incredible effort in responding to comments. Looking for a board primarily for groomers, occasional off trail hits, and some powder. Holding speed is important. Have been considering the NS West X. Does that seem like a good fit? If so, what would you recommend size wise? 6′ 3″, 170 lbs., 13 boot. I have been riding a 158W for the past several years, but think I probably need to move up the scale.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 18, 2019 at 12:07 pm

      Hi Stephen

      Thanks for your message.

      I think the West would certainly fit what you’re describing. Speed-wise if you’re an out and out bomber, then there are better options if you wanted to maximize that aspect. But for most levels of speed, I found the West to hold well.

      Size-wise, I think the 160X is the best bet for you.

      Width-wise, it’s potentially borderline for 13s, but if you’ve had no issues on the 158W (depending on the make and model), then you’ll probably be fine.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Stephen says

        February 18, 2019 at 5:22 pm

        Many thanks for the speedy response(s), Nate! My old board was a Ride Fleetwood, which sported a 265mm waist on the 158. Looks like I’d be giving up a couple mms of waist with the WestX, but I’m not certain how big of a difference that would be. Also interesting insight that the Story may actually be narrower though listed at 265. I may need to see if I can step on one of these in person, but it’s always a bit tough to find them locally.

        Another board that caught my eye is the Gnu Rider’s Choice Asym. The Wide appears to have a 268mm waist, and it seems to hit a lot of the all-mountain boxes though it may be more freestyle oriented than I need. Any thoughts?

        Last question, would the Union Strata pair well with these boards?

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 19, 2019 at 11:03 am

          Hi Stephen

          Yeah the Rider’s Choice is certainly more freestyle oriented, but what I would consider all-mountain-freestyle rather than out and out freestyle. You would be giving away a little in terms of carving, speed and powder, when it comes to something like the West. GNU boards don’t typically have a lot of difference between waist and width at inserts. Based on measuring a different size, I would say that the Rider’s Choice 158W or 162W would be around 273mm at the inserts (vs the West 160X which I would predict to be around 271mm at the inserts). You could measure your Ride Fleetwood at the inserts (at reference point) and see what that is (measure it on the base of the baord, from metal edge to metal edge). And if it’s similar, then you’ll have a good idea that you’ll be OK with the widths.

          The Strata would work really well with the West, Story and the Rider’s Choice, IMO. A good flex match. I would say the Rider’s Choice is a little softer (5/10 flex) but not by heaps and would still pair with the Strata.

          Hope this helps

          Reply

          • Stephen says

            March 3, 2019 at 12:44 pm

            Thanks, Nate! On your recommendation, I just picked up a West 160X. Still a little bit torn about the Story, but I was a bit worried about the width and the magnetraction being overkill. I’m also picking up a new pair of boots to pair with the whole kit. Any thoughts on how the Ride Trident would work with the Strata and West? It seems like a bit more of an aggressive freeride boot, but I’m making the leap to Boa and that appears to be one of the best options in that market. Thanks again for all the input!

          • Nate says

            March 4, 2019 at 3:54 pm

            Hi Stephen

            I actually just rode the 2020 Niche Story on the weekend. I rode the 156 – it was 263mm at the inserts (and 258mm at the waist). So yeah, not a big difference there. The 162, likely to be around 270mm at the inserts – so not far off the West X. But both are great options. The Magnetraction has also been mellowed out a little for the 2020 model (but that doesn’t apply if you were looking to buy now). I would say that the Story 2020 also felt a little stiffer than what I’ve rated it here – and will be upping it to 6.5/10 or even 7/10, depending on what the rest of the boards I demo feel like. But will be upping it a little anyway.

            As for the Ride Trident, they are getting on the stiff/aggressive side for that setup. Good boots for sure, but there are a lot of good BOA options out there. I would say the Tridents are about an 8/10 flex.

            Some good options that are around that 6/10, 7/10 mark.

            – K2 Maysis (7/10 flex)
            – Adidas Response (6/10 flex)
            – Ride 92 (6/10 flex)
            – Ride Deadbolt (7/10 flex)
            – Thirty Lashed Double Boa (6/10 flex)

            To name a few. The Trident is a great boot though, IMO, just whether or not it’s just on the too stiff side for that setup or not.

            Hope this helps

64. Adrian says

    February 16, 2019 at 2:24 pm

    Hi Nate,
    Excellent site!

    I’m looking for a new board, I’ve never really found one that feels right. I’ve tried custom Flying V endeavour colour, custom camber, but not hit it off that well yet. I always go back to the Flying V as my default.

    I’m intermediate, ride 5-10 days a year, tend to stick to groomers, but like to find the pow when I can. Location wise, Mainly europe, but I’m heading to Whistler in April this year, so want to get the board right.

    I’m 6’1”, roughly 190lb without my gear, size 10 Uk books (ions)

    I’m interested in board size and type.

    Thanks
    Adrian

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 18, 2019 at 10:53 am

      Hi Adrian

      Thanks for your message.

      Since you haven’t clicked with either a full camber, a flying V or a hybrid camber (Endeavor, Color), then you’ve covered a few bases there. A hybrid rocker will feel a little different from the Flying V – but closer to Flying V than the others. So, if you feel that the Flying V is the closest to what you’re looking for that you’ve found so far, then I think going Hybrid Rocker is a good idea. If you preferred the Custom Camber or Endeavor Color to the Flying V, then I would suggest looking at a hybrid camber. Going with a different brand is probably a good idea too – as all brands tend to have different feels, even if they have some similar specs.

      If you feel like the Flying V is the closest so far, then I would look at hybrid rocker, like:

      Never Summer West
      Niche Story
      Nitro Team Gullwing

      If you feel like you would prefer a hybrid camber, then the following would be good options to look at:

      YES Standard
      Jones Mountain Twin
      Slash Brainstorm
      Rossignol One LF
      YES Typo

      Length-wise, I would be looking at something around 159 to 161 as an intermediate rider.

      Width-wise, with UK10 Ions, you could go as narrow as 254mm at the waist width, depending on the board, if you ride with something like +15-15 binding angles. With a very straight back binding angle, I would move that minimum to 260mm. Anything up to 264mm waist width would work as a maximum. It does depend on the board too, as some have much different width at inserts compared to waist width, so those numbers are only rough. If you narrow it down to 1 or 2 boards, I can give you my opinion on best sizes for those, for both length and width.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

65. Erik says

    February 11, 2019 at 2:43 pm

    Hey Nate,

    Thanks so much for the response. I always thought my Jamie Lynn was a 157 Wide, but I just measured the waist width and it’s approximately 25cm across. I’m not sure of my current binding angles, but I’d hate to leave myself limited. I currently wear a size 11 2015 Burton SLX boot which I believe might have a reduced footprint. Based on further research i’ve research I’ve narrowed my choices down to the Terrain wrecker 157 (25.7 waist width) and the Jones Mountain Twin 158W(25.8 waist width) I’ve already went ahead and ordered the Genesis bindings after you mentioned how comfortable they are. Just deliberating which board will check all the boxes for me and provide me with the diversity I am looking for. I’m a 45 yr old male and I’m not looking jump off cliffs or win any races down the mountain. I’m lucky to get 15-20 days on the mountain each year and I mostly ride in the northeast with a trip or two yearly it to Utah or Colorado. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and thanks again for the advice and helpful info.

    Regards,
    Erik

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 12, 2019 at 11:30 am

      Hi Erik

      Based on other Lib Tech boards I’ve measured, there isn’t typically a big difference (compared to average) between waist and width at inserts on Lib Tech boards, so I would imagine that the Terrain Wrecker would be around 263mm at the inserts, with the 257mm waist. The Mountain Twin on the other hand has a larger than normal difference. So even though the waist is similar, the Mountain Twin 158W is likely to have around a 271mm width at inserts (based on measuring a difference size Mountain Twin) – so the Mountain Twin 158W is likely to be a good amount wider at the inserts. But if you’ve been riding on a 250mm waisted Lib Tech, and you have Burton boots, then I think you would still be fine on the Terrain Wrecker.

      Also, to note, that width for the Mountain Twin is based on the reference stance, which is 600mm (23.6″) which is quite a wide stance width – if you were to ride it narrower, then it wouldn’t be as wide, where your bindings go.

      The Mountain Twin, for me, is about one of the most versatile boards out there. It feels consistent in any terrain, and can ride any style. I haven’t ridden the Terrain Wrecker but based on specs and what others are saying, also seems very versatile.

      Most Lib Tech boards I’ve ridden are very good in hard/icy conditions, so there’s that, given that your on the East Coast. But the Mountain Twin is pretty good too. At a guess I would say the Terrain Wrecker is likely a little better in that area, but not a huge difference.

      Reply

      • Erik says

        February 13, 2019 at 8:46 am

        Terrain wrecker it is. Thanks for all the helpful info and insight. Keep up the great work. I enjoy your site very much.
        Erik

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 13, 2019 at 4:14 pm

          You’re very welcome Erik. Thanks for visiting the site and glad I could help. Happy riding!

          P.S: If you think of it at the time, let me know what you think of the Terrain Wrecker, once you’ve had a chance to ride it. I’m hoping to ride it this spring, but good to get as many opinions as possible.

          Reply

66. Erik N. says

    February 10, 2019 at 2:23 pm

    Hey Nate,

    I’m starting to research new board and bindings option after about 10 years on my Lib tech Jamie Lynn Phoenix blond. I am 45 yrs old 165 lbs and 5 ft 9′ I wear a size 11 boot. I’m an advanced intermediate rider looking for that one board to do a bit of everything. I really don’t want any limitations and I’m hoping my next set up will last me as long as my Jamie Lynn. I’m not too knowledgeable on the latest technologies and board shapes, which leads me to looking to you for some advice. So far based on a few recommendations i’ve narrowed some of my choices down to the Lib Tech Terrain wrecker 157, Lib tech T Rice pro 157 Jones ultra and standard mountain twin 155W or 158W, and both Burton customs(standard and rocker) For bindings I’m deciding between Burton Genesis and Union Atlas both size Lg. I’d appreciate any helpful info and I’m open to any suggestions you might have. Also in regards to sizing, what do you suggest in terms of board length and whether I need a wide board.
    Thanks!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 11, 2019 at 1:40 pm

      Hi Erik

      Thanks for your message.

      Firstly, length-wise, I would say something around 157 is a good way to go, give or take.

      Width-wise, with 11s, I would say wide in more cases than not, but in some cases you can get on a regular width board. If you ride with angles like +15-15 (i.e. with a reasonable amount of angle on the back binding), then that helps to get on a narrower board – as does low profile boots. If you could let me know the size of your Jamie Lynn Phoenix too. The width of that, assuming you haven’t had any drag issues would also help to make a call. But generally speaking roughly minimum of 254mm waist width, with 15 degrees on the back binding – and min 261mm waist width if a completely straight back foot. This is only roughly speaking as the width at inserts can differ compared to waist width depending on the board.

      The Ultra Mountain Twin is quite a different beast to the Mountain Twin. They do have a lot of similarities, but the UMT is significantly stiffer. It would be the most different from the options you’ve got there, just because of that stiffness. It’s not something that I really enjoyed slowing down and playing around with. It’s a more the kind of board that wants to go fast all the time, from my experience. If that’s what you’re after, then it’s aweseome, but if you want to slow it down and play around sometimes, then the others you’ve mentioned are better options. The T Rice Pro the same to some extent. But if you were wanting something similar in flex to your Jamie Lynn Phoenix, then those 2 would be the closest in that sense. But if you’re looking to mellow it out a little, then the other options are likely better.

      The Burton Custom Flying V is likely going to be going too mellow – and with that Flying V profile will probably feel too loose compared to what you’re used to, IMO.

      The Custom Camber certainly an option, as are the Terrain Wrecker (not one I’ve ridden yet but heard good things) and Mountain Twin.

      If you were to go with something like the UMT or the T Rice Pro, then I would say to pair them with the Atlas for sure. Just going to give a bit more response and drive to those boards, than the Genesis, IMO (the Genesis X would be more suitable).

      For the Custom Camber, Terrain Wrecker and Mountain Twin, both the Genesis and Atlas would work – which one would depend on whether you were more looking for response or wanted something that had better board feel. The Genesis, IMO, are more comfortable and have considerably better board feel, but the Atlas are more responsive.

      Depending on boots and angles, I would say:

      Terrain Wrecker: 157
      T Rice Pro: 157 or 157W
      Mountain Twin: 158W
      Ultra Mountain Twin: 158W (or 155W to mellow it out a bit)
      Custom: 158W

      Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

      Reply

      • Erik says

        February 11, 2019 at 2:53 pm

        I also forgot to mention that I certainly would like to mellow it out a bit from the Jamie Lynn. If I did go with the the mountain twin should I consider the 155w as well as the 158w? Just trying to cover all my bases.
        Thanks again,
        Erik

        Reply

        • Nate says

          February 12, 2019 at 11:38 am

          Hi Erik

          Yeah you would certainly fit into the range for the 155W. And width-wise I imagine it would be fine. Further to my last comment, re the 158W having a width at inserts of around 271mm. The 155W is likely to be a little narrower than that at the reference point, even though it has the same waist width as the 158W, as it has a narrower reference stance. But still plenty wide enough for you, I would say.

          Some pros of going 155W are that it would feel more mellow than the 158W (which is a good thing if that’s what you’re looking for) – better for trees, more agile at slower speeds, feel softer flexing/more playful. Better for freestyle in general. Downsides is that it will be a little less stable at higher speeds, and won’t float as well in powder. But that said, it’s likely to be similar in surface area to the 157 Jamie Lynn – as it will be a little wider. And overall, I would say that the Mountain Twin probably has slightly better float than the Jamie Lynn anyway.

          Hope this gives you more to go off

          Reply

67. John says

    February 5, 2019 at 3:05 am

    Hi Natee!
    I have a question about rossignol Onel LF 153 2018.
    I try to buy one on second hand and I’m 169 cm, 75kg and 42 EU Burton.
    You think 153cm is correct for me? I make all mountain, a little pow a little groomers.
    I have a burton cartels 18.

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Nate says

      February 5, 2019 at 12:18 pm

      Hi John

      Thanks for your message.

      I think you could definitely ride the 153. I would be weighing up the 153 and 156. Both sizes would be a good width for your boots, IMO.

      For float in powder and stability at speed, the 156 would be better, but the 153 better in the trees and more maneuverable at slower speeds and better for freestyle. Also the 153 would be more suitable if you are more of an intermediate rider. If you’re more advanced, then the 156 is likely the better call, unless you also ride a fair bit of freestyle/trees. You could still ride the 153 as an advanced rider who does no freestyle, but I would be leaning towards the 156 in that case. In other cases, the 153 should be a good size for you, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

68. Brad Graham says

    January 27, 2019 at 11:28 am

    Hi Nate,

    Thanks for all the information on your site. I’m trying to decide between out what size the 159/162 on the Never Summer West.

    I’m 5’11”, 200 lbs, 10.5 boots. Currently ride an old NS T5 Premier 165, a remnant of my time living out west. I do a bit of everything except park, mostly in the Midwest now.

    Any thoughts would be appreciated.

    Thx
    Brad

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 28, 2019 at 1:17 pm

      Hi Brad

      Thanks for your message.

      You could certainly ride both, but I would be leaning towards the 162 for a few reasons.

      1. It’s better suited for your weight
      2. Both should be fine width-wise for your boots, but the 162 gives you a little more leeway
      3. You’re coming from a 165. The 162 will be less of an adjustment than the 159 – but you would still be sizing down a little both in terms of overall length and effective edge, which I think would be a good thing.
      4. You don’t ride park – that would have been one argument for the 159.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

69. Matt says

    January 23, 2019 at 8:54 am

    Good morning, Sir!

    I am 6-1, 180 pounds, size 12 boot.

    I ride an old High Society Empire (165w) – big mountain board, very stiff. Love bombing runs and hitting the trees.

    Knowing that, what are the major differences between the West and the Standard? Are both of those boards going to give me something a little different compared to what I am riding now? Very interested in both, but I would hate to snag something similar to my board now. Also, would you recommend the 159 in the standard? What about the west? Would i need to look at the wide boards? (west X)

    Thanks,
    Matt

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 24, 2019 at 10:30 am

      Hi Matt

      Thanks for your message.

      I don’t know the High Society Empire (and struggled to find detailed specs on it), but based on what you’re describing both the West and Standard are quite different from it.

      From what I can tell the Empire is a traditional camber profile. The Standard is a hybrid camber (camber between the feet and under the feet but rockered towards tip and tail) and the West is a hybrid rocker (rocker between the feet and camber under the feet and towards tip and tail).

      Both, I imagine would be softer. By my feel both a 6/10 flex. The Empire sounds like it’s quite stiff.

      The Standard is a directional volume twin – basically a twin, but with a bit more volume in the nose. The West is a directional twin – a little longer nose vs tail and a bit of a setback. The Empire sounds like it’s probably more directional, given that you describe it as a big mountain board. The Standard and West are both what I would describe as “do-it-all” kind of boards, that can take you anywhere and do a bit of everything.

      Size-wise, for the Standard, I think the 159 would be a good size for you. I actually like the 156 (6’0″, 185lbs) but for a few reasons I would go 159 for you, even though those specs are similar. 1. because you have 12 boots. I like to size down in length for this board because it’s wide for my boots, but it’s not wide for your boots, so going 159 makes more sense. 2. You are used to a 165W and going down to a 156 would be too much, IMO 3. I like to ride quite a bit of freestyle, so like a shorter board for those aspects. You could even look at the 162, given that even that is shorter and less effective edge than what you’re currently used to. The 162 would be better for you in terms of stability at speed and float in powder. The 159 on the other hand will be better in the trees, and better for slowing down and playing around with (if that’s something you ever do).

      Size-wise for the West, yeah definitely wide with a 12 boots. Usually I would say go for the 160X, but since you’re used to a 165, the 164X becomes an option. Again, the longer 164X will be less of an adjustment from your current board, offer more in terms of stability at speed and float in powder, whereas the 160 will be more agile, better in the trees, better at slower speeds, better for freestyle etc. I personally like the 159 for the West (with size 10 boots).

      Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision

      Reply

70. Spencer says

    January 21, 2019 at 5:37 pm

    Hi there. I love your website. 2 questions for you. 1) I am 5-10 and 160 pounds with a 10.5-11 size boot. I think a 158-159 works best but would love your thoughts.

    2) Would also love your thoughts on what board you recommend. I mainly snowboard on groomers, powder, and resort chop. Not doing any tricks or jumps. Looking for a board that can handle high speed carving, even in heavy and choppy snow and float on powder. thanks!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 22, 2019 at 11:14 am

      Hi Spencer

      Thanks for your message.

      Given your style of riding and your specs, I think something around 157, 158 would be a great size for you. And you could even ride 159 for an all-mountain board, given that you don’t do any tricks/jumps. Width-wise, you’re kind of on the cuff when it comes to going regular width or wide, with 10.5s to 11s. If 10.5s and you ride with binding angles like +15/-15 or similar (i.e. with a reasonable angle on the back binding), then you should be fine with regular width. But for all other scenarios, especially given that you like to carve, I think going wide would be a good idea. If you really want to stick to regular width boards, then going with a low-profile boot and really trying to get into a 10.5 would be a good idea.

      Board-wise, you could possibly look at Freeride boards too, assuming you’re riding at a relatively advanced level. They are more focused on speed, carving and powder, and aren’t designed to also be able to do freestyle stuff like all-mountain boards are. So they’re more specialized to what you’re describing. You can check out some options at the following, to see if that’s something you’d prefer.

      >> My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards

      But if you’re looking for something a bit more forgiving (which can often mean better in chop), then this is a good list to look at.

      Or you could also look at the following:

      >>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards

      Which don’t tend to be as good in powder as all-mountain or freeride – and can be hard work in chop, but I think the Mercury and Explorer would be great options for what you’re describing.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

71. Mats says

    January 8, 2019 at 6:28 am

    Hi Nate!

    I am going for the Yes Standard. Unsure if I should take the 156 or 159. I am 5,11 and 160 lbs, 8,5 in shoe size, intermediate and going for carving and freeride. What size would you redommend?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 9, 2019 at 1:40 pm

      Hi Mats

      Thanks for your message.

      For your specs, I would definitely go 156, even for a carving/freeride oriented style. The 159 would be too long and too wide to work well for you, IMO. If you were going to be doing more freestyle type stuff, I would even say go 153 for this board. But for what you’re describing, I think the 156 would be a good size. It’s still going to be quite wide for 8.5s, but that extra width will help with powder float.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

72. Tuomas says

    January 7, 2019 at 7:40 am

    Hi Nate,

    Thank you for this amazing site and all the information regarding this sport.

    I began riding 2 years ago with Burton Clash and at this moment the board starts to feel little bit sloppy in our Finnish conditions which are mostly hard snow/icy resorts, powder is pretty rare to us and something to keep dreaming about. Clash is very forgiving (and amazing for beginners) board but the edge hold is quite bad in our typical conditions. I’ll keep the Clash for the snowy days, for sure.

    Do you have a board in mind that would work for me? I don’t care too much riding in the park or doing any extreme backcountry, mostly on-trail. Just wishing more hold doing the harder snow/icy parts and picking up some speed. I would consider myself as an (almost) intermediate rider.

    Thank you in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      January 8, 2019 at 1:03 pm

      Hi Tuomas

      Thanks for your message.

      Not surprised that you’ve had edge-hold issues with the Clash. Like you say, a great forgiving, beginner board – but not one for those Icy conditions.

      At a beginner going on intermediate level, I would look at something like:

      YES Basic
      YES Typo
      Rossignol Templar

      Also, check out the following (all the boards that I consider the best in hard/icy on that list is listed above, but this will give you some more info on the boards.

      >>Top 10 Intermediate Snowboards

      If you want a little step up in quality – but at the same time probably a little bit of a steeper learning curve, you could also look at the likes of:

      Rossignol One LF
      YES Standard
      YES Greats
      GNU Rider’s Choice
      Lib Tech TRS

      If you can’t find any of those, let me know and I can give you some more options, that are still better than the Clash in hard/icy conditions, but maybe not quite as good as those.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Tuomas says

        January 9, 2019 at 2:06 am

        Hi Nate,

        and thank you for your answer. I was looking at the YES Standard few times, but it seems that it’s unavailable here in northern Europe and if I were to order it from States, the price goes too high with the taxes, importing and everything. I’m also going to ride on the Alps like once or twice a year so the next board needs to handle all of this. I don’t mind the bigger learning curve if it gives me a board that I can use for a longer time, I’m worrying that i’ll have to upgrade the next board after two to three seasons.

        I’m 5’7ft, 175lbs and 9/9.5 size boot. I also have the Burton Custom bindings and Burton Moto boots. Do you think these would work with the stiffer board or do they become the achilles heel when riding with something more challenging?

        Do you have any boards you would recommend from Burton with a size in mind? I like The Channel -system which I have on the Clash.

        Thank you!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 10, 2019 at 1:24 pm

          Hi Tuomas

          Having softer bindings and boots isn’t ideal for a stiffer flexing board. I find that softer boots and bindings make it harder to drive a stiffer board, so ideally, you would want to upgrade those too. If you did, you could still use them on days when you take out your Clash (which you can then just leave the bindings attached, which is convenient for days when you do take the Clash out). Of course, you don’t have to upgrade those, but it’s highly recommended with a stiffer board.

          Size-wise, I would look at something in the range between 154 and 156.

          From Burton, I would say that the Custom Flying V would be a good option. Though it’s not the best in hard/icy conditions. Can’t think of too many Burton boards that are, that don’t have camber dominant profiles, which might be a bit too advanced at this stage. Though you might get away with something like the Burton Process (non-flying V) which has Burton’s “purepop camber” which is still camber dominant but not full camber. Or The Family Tree Trick Pilot (though the shortest size there is 158).

          Hope this helps

          Reply

          • Tuomas says

            January 11, 2019 at 1:10 am

            Thank you again for you insights. It seems to me that in this range the Burton is ruled out considering my skill level and riding conditions here. I found the Yes Standard in UK for sale with correct price range so I’m ordering that and will be using the Custom bindings and Moto boots for now when searching for the correct bindings and boots to match this setup.

            Any advices on these would be also appriciated, thank you very much for all the info!

          • Nate says

            January 12, 2019 at 12:09 pm

            Hi Tuomas

            Awesome that you were able to find the Standard. When you change bindings, I would go for something with either a 6/10 or 7/10 flex. Same for boots. Some good options at the link below.

            >>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings

            >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

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

            Hope this gives you some good options

73. DD says

    December 29, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    Thanks Nate!

    Reply

74. Jeff Young says

    December 29, 2018 at 8:55 am

    Nate, I just want to say THANK YOU for putting all this great info together in one place. I’ve read almost everything over the past week and have learned a ton, but am definitely overwhelmed at the number of options out there. I’d like your opinion on my unique situation. I’m 30 (5’8 155lbs), been snowboarding casually since I was 13, primarily in the Canadian Rockies. 4 years ago I hurt my back (not on the hill) and haven’t been out since, but I’d like to get back on the horse here now. I recently sold my snowboard I grew up on, no idea what type of board it was but I know it was too small for me now. Before I hurt myself I’d consider myself on the low end of advanced riding, loved bombing the mountain, cautious carving on the blacks, but I could tear up the blues as fast as I wanted. Loved powder as well, so I want a board that will have max fun factor in powder. I’m rarely in the park, not comfortable switch, and any jump would be off natural features.

    My caveat is I want a forgiving board, that’s not too easy to catch an edge on. I want to set myself up for success and give myself the best chance of not having a costly spill. So in your opinion, what would be a good performing beginner board for my style or a forgiving more advanced performing board. I’m not opposed to buying new to get exactly what I want, but there’s a couple good deals I’ve seen locally on a Jones Mountain Twin, Ride Wildlife, Niche Story, Capita Mercury, Rossignol One, and Burton Flying V boards. Could you recommend one of those for my situation I would I be better served with something else? Thanks for your time Nate, I really appreciate it.

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 31, 2018 at 1:56 pm

      Hi Jeff

      Thanks for your message.

      From what you’re describing, I would be leaning towards something like the Mountain Twin, Wildlife, One and Custom Flying V. The Story from my experience is a little stiffer, and the Mercury a little more aggressive – and since you want something forgiving.

      The Wildlife, One and Custom Flying V would all suit what you’re describing really well, IMO.

      I think for your level I wouldn’t go for a strictly beginner board, as boards like this are still forgiving but offer more performance than beginner boards.

      The Slash Brainstorm, Never Summer West (or even Snowtrooper if you wanted even more forgiving), or Nitro Team Gullwing would all be good options too, IMO.

      Size-wise, I would be looking at around 155, 156 at an advanced level, but you could go a little shorter than that too, if wanted to get a slightly more forgiving feel. Not too short, so as to eat into powder performance, but certainly 153, 154 would work for you, IMO. So I’d say a range between 153 to 155 would be a good range to look at.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • Jeff says

        January 3, 2019 at 11:14 am

        Thanks very much Nate, (sorry for the original double post as well) I hope you had a great holiday season. I’m super close to grabbing a last years model 156cm Wild Life (no bindings) for a good price, however there’s a lightly used 158cm Wild Life with Ride Revolt bindings for the same price. Do you think that’s too long? There’s also a 155cm Endeavor Board of Directors near me as well, do you have much experience with that one? Finally, what are the old Burton Customs like? There’s a good condition 2007 156cm Burton Custom (pre flying V I guess). Thanks for all your insight, will be grabbing something here shortly, and I’ll report back.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          January 4, 2019 at 3:44 pm

          Hi Jeff

          Thanks for your message.

          IMO, the 158 Ride Wildlife would be too long for you, based on your specs and what you’re describing. Sounds like a good deal, but I think you’d find it a bit long.

          I’m not familiar with Endeavor boards, so I can’t say much there. Based on specs, it looks like it could work for you, but I’m not sure there.

          The 2007 Custom would be all camber I would imagine. And not likely to be very forgiving, so I don’t think that would be suitable for you, from what you’re describing.

          I would go for the 156 Wild Life from all those options (without really know the Endeavor BOD well enough but that could also be an option).

          Reply

75. DD says

    December 27, 2018 at 3:29 pm

    Hi Nate, sorry to bug you again on this topic, but I had an additional question on the Rossi One. Recently had the opportunity to ride the Rossi XV, and while I managed it ok, it took some extra effort to muscle it around the slopes. Assuming you’ve ridden both, is the One a decent bit softer? I did find the XV super stable and hoping the One shares some of that stability but in a softer package. Thanks again and Happy New Year!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 29, 2018 at 11:02 am

      Hi DD

      Yes the One is noticeably softer flexing and also has more rocker and less camber, making it noticeably easier going than the XV. Certainly more suitable for an intermediate level than the XV. Whilst not the same level of stability at speed as the XV, the One is still a very stable feeling ride.

      Happy new year!

      Reply

76. dd says

    December 13, 2018 at 10:27 am

    Sorry Nate – meant to include my boot size is us10.5 on my prior question/post. Thanks

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 14, 2018 at 12:57 pm

      Hi DD

      Thanks for your message.

      From what you’re describing the One LF might be your best bet. It’s a very smooth turning board that’s quite damp feeling. The Standard is a little snappier in feel. Still not un-damp, but not as damp as the One LF – and the One LF is probably, just, an easier turner.

      If you did go Standard the 156 would be your best bet.

      For the Rossi One, I would usually say the 159 for your specs, but as an intermediate rider, and if you wanted to make it an even easier turner, then the 156 would definitely work too, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • DD says

        December 14, 2018 at 2:32 pm

        Thanks for the quick reply, I will look more at the one lf. on sizing, if I went to the 156, do you think my us10.5 would be ok? I think the waist on the 156 is 252 and on the 159 is 254. my angles are usually 18/9. I’m not a “lay it over” carver by any stretch, but still wanted to check. Thank you again.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          December 16, 2018 at 12:41 pm

          Hi DD

          Yeah, I think the 156 should be fine for 10.5 boots for you, with those angles. It’s probably the narrowest you would want to go, but should be fine.

          Reply

          • DD says

            December 16, 2018 at 5:21 pm

            Thanks Nate! Have a great season.

          • Nate says

            December 17, 2018 at 1:21 pm

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

77. dd says

    December 13, 2018 at 10:16 am

    Hi Nate – appreciate all your great information and patience answering questions! I posted prior and am still trying to decide between the rossi one lf and one of the yes boards. the new typo appears to have widened their ref stance too much, but I’m intrigued by the standard as you reviewed it quite well. I’m low intermediate, not a bomber, but cruiser looking to add some speed and ride steeper slopes, and no park. also have dodgy knee (old man) so looking for something stable/damp but with easy turn initiation and quiver of one type. am I on the right track with one lf or standard? if not, any other suggestions? I’m 5’10 about 185 and was looking at 156. thank you in advance!

    Reply

78. alden owens says

    December 12, 2018 at 12:02 am

    No mention of the Yes Basic Decade in any of these categories. Did you test that board for 2019? If so what is it about the deck that kept it off any of your top lists

    Reply

    • Nate says

      December 12, 2018 at 2:40 pm

      Hi Alden

      Thanks for your message.

      I haven’t had the chance to test the Basic Decade yet. If they bring it out in a 2020 model, I hope to test that one. I’ve heard good things about it and it could potentially make it. Though I would likely consider it all-mountain-freestyle, given that it’s a true twin with a centered stance.

      Reply

79. Carlos Emanuele says

    November 27, 2018 at 7:14 am

    Hello Nate, I left a lengthy comment yesterday but I don’t think it went through. First of all, thank you very much for your reviews, they are very helpful! I followed your beginner board review, and I got a 157W Ride Agenda 2 years ago which I love but now outgrew. I am looking for an all mountain board in the intermediate level, that can be more stable at higher speed. I am 43 yo and do not plan on doing backflips or anything park related, just like to ride down blues and blacks in a cruisy/surfy way. I am 6’1″ and 215 lbs, so the size is also something we need to consider increasing. I was looking at the Burton Custom FV, NS West and Proto Type 2, and Jones Mountain Twin. Any thoughts on these or any other recommendation? Thanks for your help!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 27, 2018 at 11:04 am

      Hi Carlos

      Please see my response to your previous comment above. Comments just have to be moderated before being published. Though it should mention this once your comment is submitted, so I’ll have to look into that to make sure it’s working properly as I’ve had a couple of people mention this recently. Thanks for pointing it out.

      Reply

80. tomas says

    November 27, 2018 at 2:53 am

    i dont see my previos post … checking if it saved in the back end till you respond

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 27, 2018 at 11:02 am

      Hi

      I received your message and replied above. All comments just have to go through moderation before they’re published.

      Reply

81. Dalton 79 says

    November 27, 2018 at 1:09 am

    Hi Aaron,
    Am happy i found your site; Excelent reviews and detailed feedback. Well, please find below a brief of my case and appreciate your support
    I m around 185 Pounds ; 5.6 Ft and 5.95 feet and boots 10.5.
    My level is intermediate to advanced riding; I ride any kind of terrain pretty confident, but generally not good to cruise through quickly in bump areas. I usually think that the board i have is not the best to go throguh quick around turns but most prob is my level 🙂 is not good.
    In the past i had a Travis Rice Pro 157 (or 59 dont remember) for 2 seasons (3 weeks in total aprox/ 1.5 per season) but i find out that has to be charged to make it work well. So i wantes something a little more playfull and thought that the Lib Tech TRS Firepower 159 would work. I m happy with it but not on Powder; Its not super playfull either but overal is very good but for sure not in powder since it sinks the nose to the point of getting trapped; I have set it back as much as possible, but still not working performing well in powder. Also since i m 10.5 i m just in the limit so i think that sometimes i might be touching the snow iwth the boots and slashing on groomers. What i like most is powder, and i use to seek for powder …. but also love to carve on groomers and would like to have a board more playfull for no powder days. I like riding switch and playing with simple ground tricks and intermediate jumps (red – would love to kick bigger black kickers but getting old /40). Last but not least, to be on the safe side for big powder days (Japàn or Heli days / not often) i bought last year a sale of a Jone Storm Chaser 159 which is incredible for big powder days … but if its not that deep is a little too big and stiff .. though it carves very well on groomers. I might have had to buy the smaller version 154 but its done . (should i try to change / reduce size).
    Having said that and after reading your reviews of all Mountain i m now thinking between the following boards – Standard; Yes Greats;Slash Brainstron; Jones Mountain Twin or Never Summer West.

    What would you recommend my as my number one all mountain quiver ; Except for big Granted Powder days where I take the Jones Storm Chaser

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 27, 2018 at 11:01 am

      Hi Dalton

      Thanks for your message.

      I was a little confused about your height there. Just to confirm that it’s 5 foot 6 inches? I wasn’t sure what the 5.95 feet part meant?

      But going off 5’6″, I think the 157 TRS would have been a better option for you. And for the Storm Chaser, I would have gone down to the shorter 152. It’s the kind of board that’s designed to be ridden shorter – and the extra width helps with float in powder (as well as a few other things on that board). I’m guessing you have the 157 for the Storm Chaser? I can’t see it in a 159. I bet the 157 has awesome float in the powder for you though!

      From the boards you’re looking at, the only one I would cross off would be the Greats. Don’t get me wrong that’s one of my favorite boards, but it’s one weakness is powder. It’s a little better in powder now that it’s a little wider, but it still won’t offer any improvement in powder compared to your TRS, IMO. The Standard is an option, and if you were to ride it in the slam back stance, it would be a good option. The West would give you something just on the surfier side, so that’s also a good option. The Brainstorm and Mountain Twin would also work for what you’re describing too. Though I don’t think any of those boards would be more playful than the TRS, from what I’ve experienced, if you were to go for something around 159. But if you went for more around 156, 157, then they most likely would feel a bit more playful. Size-wise for those boards, I would say:

      Standard: 156 – and this is a wider option too, so you wouldn’t have any drag issues with this.
      West: 156 – but if you’re worried about width, then the 157X is also an option for sure (and would give better powder performance too)
      Mountain Twin: 157 or 158W
      Brainstorm: 157 – though this might be too narrow, so the 159W is the next option which could be getting a bit on the long side

      If i had to narrow it down further, I think I would be weighing up between the 156 Standard and 157X West.

      Of course this is based on 5 foot 6 inches. Please correct me if I have that wrong.

      Hope this helps

      Reply

      • tomas says

        November 28, 2018 at 9:33 am

        Thanks Nate ,
        sorry i not make it clear … but yes i mean 180 cm height (5´9″ if i m not wrong) and weight average is 82 to 85 Kg .
        Seems that Yes Standard is the way to go … now if i take the 156 you think it would be good on Powder ? or very similar to the TRS ? Setting it back would be a must right ? Does it has a good turn initiation for Tree lines ? I read that with a foot of 10.5 US is not that slow … right ?

        Which one would you take ? And you recomend the 2019 Model right ?

        thanks and sorry for so many questions …

        PD: a petty i dont bought the Storm Chaser in a smaller size to

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 29, 2018 at 10:23 am

          Hi Tomas

          Thanks for the clarification. 180cm is around 5’11”, so I would change some of the sizings from before. I would say that something around 159 for an advanced level

          I still think the 156 Standard would be the best option for that board. In the 156 I don’t think you would have any issues with edge-to-edge speed. I have size 10 boots, and I’m 183cm and 83kg – and I didn’t find it too slow edge-to-edge. It’s not lightning fast but it’s medium-fast, IMO. In the slam back stance, I think it would still float more than the 159 TRS. For a couple of reasons 1. Because it’s a wider board and 2. because it has a directional volume shape which helps the tail to sink and the nose to lift. I wouldn’t say it would be worlds better, but I think it would be an improvement. Yeah I would recommend the 2019 model, just because it’s a little lighter than the 2018 model (otherwise they are basically the same).

          For the other options, though, I would change it to look at:

          Standard: 156
          West: 159 (previously I was saying 156) – but the 157X is still an option for sure (and it actually has slightly more overall surface area than the 159 – not by heaps but by a little bit)
          Mountain Twin: 160 (previously I said 157. The 158W is also still an option, if you want to go wider. Though I prefer the 157 for this board, but I like it to be a bit more playful. So that’s still an option if you want more playful – but the 160 or 158W will be better in powder.
          Brainstorm: 159W

          Hope this gives you more to go off

          Reply

82. Carlos says

    November 26, 2018 at 1:10 pm

    Hello Nate, your reviews are awesome! Based on your recommendations for beginner boards, I bought a Ride Agenda 2 years ago. After 2 full seasons, I think I am ready to upgrade. I am 43 yo, and I don’t think I will ever do back flips or anything like that. I just love to ride the slopes on are more cruisy/surfy way. My 157W Agenda is an awesome board to learn, but now that I am picking up a little more speed coming down blues and blacks, I feel it is very unstable, and I understand it is due to the soft flex and perhaps the board being a little short for my size. I am 6’1″, 210lbs and size 12 boot, and I have Burton Step-On bindings & Ruler boots. I ride mostly in the Northeast, but we go west and/or Europe at least a couple of times during the season. I have been looking at these intermediate level boards: Burton Custom Flying-V, Never Summer Proto Type 2, Jones Mountain Twin. Would you recommend these and/or any other board for what I need? Also, what size would you recommend? Most size charts recommend 162W and up for my size and weight, but I am not sure if I should make the jump to +5cm larger from what I ride now? I still want something that is not difficult no initiate turns. I appreciate your advice and thank you very much in advance!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 27, 2018 at 10:29 am

      Hi Carlos

      Thanks for your message.

      Sounds like your progression is coming along nicely.

      Size-wise, I think something around between a 160W to 162W would be a good way to go now. That extra length, in addition to a stiffer flex and a profile with some camber in it, will make a big difference when it comes to stability at speed. And having a bit of camber in the profile will help to give the board a bit of extra liveliness/spring too. But I wouldn’t go all camber as that can feel catchy and also you mention you want a cruisey/surfy feel, so having some rocker in there will definitely be a good way to go.

      Of course, since you want that cruisey ride and are looking at intermediate boards, we don’t want to go too stiff either. Something between a 4 and 6 out of 10, would be a good place to look, IMO.

      Because you’re out east I would go Mountain Twin over the Custom Flying V, just because it’s better in hard/icy conditions. Though the Custom Flying V is a little more of a surfy feel.

      I would be looking at the West over the Proto Type Two for you, just because it doesn’t sound like you’ll be getting into freestyle riding, I think the West would be a better fit. The West has a slightly more surfy feel compared to the Mountain Twin, with as good edge-hold, so I think that’s sounding like a good option. If you wanted to go even more surfy/easy going the Never Summer Snowtrooper would work too. It’s a little softer flexing (4/10) and has a more mellow, more surfy camber profile. It’s still a little stiffer than the Agenda and would give a bit more stability at speed – though the difference would be more subtle compared to going West. Though going longer would also improve stability too.

      Size-wise, I would go with the following:

      West: 160X
      Snowtrooper: 160X
      Mountain Twin: 161W

      The Nitro Team Gullwing would also suit your purposes well, IMO. The 162W probably the best size, though it is getting quite wide. The 159W is also an option if you didn’t want too much of a step up.

      You could also look at the Lib Tech Terrain Wrecker. It’s not a board I’ve ridden but have heard good things. And based on the specs and other Lib Tech boards I’ve ridden, I think that would suit what you’re describing also. The 161W would be a good size for you, IMO.

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Carlos says

        November 27, 2018 at 5:16 pm

        Thank you very much, Nate!

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 28, 2018 at 2:30 pm

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

          Reply

83. Aaron says

    November 23, 2018 at 12:10 pm

    That helps a lot, thank you!

    Have a great season on the slopes!!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 24, 2018 at 2:10 pm

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

      Reply

84. Chris says

    November 22, 2018 at 7:18 pm

    Hi Nate!

    I’m having a lot of trouble picking out a good board and bindings for me. I want one that I could ride for a long time, even as I progress. I’m 6’, 190lbs and where size 11.5 DC Judge’s. I consider myself to be high beginner. I really just stick to cruising the groomers. Blues and some diamonds with friends. Slower on greens when I’m with the kids. Could you please give me some board and binding recommendations? With sizes? Thank you for your help!! Much appreciated!

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 23, 2018 at 3:57 pm

      Hi Chris

      Thanks for your message.

      Since you’re a high level beginner, and want something that’s good for just cruising, but still want it to progress with you, I would look at one of the following. This are what I would consider good all-mountain boards that are just that little bit softer and more cruisy and more highend beginner/low end intermediate appropriate. I’m looking at creating a list for this type of board when I get the chance but in the meantime, check out the following for some options.

      Length-wise, I would look at something around 158-160 for your specs/skill level.

      In terms of width, you’ll need to go for a wide board with 11.5s. I’ve included the sizes that I think would be best for you, in the list below.

      ~ YES Typo – 159W
      ~ Never Summer Snowtrooper – 160X – or even 157X to go even more cruisey
      ~ Burton Process Flying V – 159W
      ~ Capita Outerspace Living – 159W (or 157W)
      ~ GNU T2B – 158MW
      ~ YES Libre – 159W
      ~ Arbor Whiskey – 159MW
      ~ Rossignol Templar – 159W

      Hope this helps

      Reply

85. Aaron says

    November 18, 2018 at 11:41 pm

    Hey Nate!

    Wow! Found your reviews on this website today which are an excellent way to pare down the decision tree… there’s so many boards out there!!

    I’m 5’9″, 165 lbs, boots 9.5/10 US size and based on your skill levels write up I’d put myself at a 6/advanced though my switch game is weak, I’d like to improve it. I love the carves, occasional glading, small jumps, and when the powder is good it’s to the top to hit the bowls (and maybe out of bounds area depending on resort). I rarely go through the park but might do a few smaller jumps here and there. I’ve been riding a 2013 K2 raygun 157 since I started back in 2013.

    All that said I think I’ve settled on the Yes Standard though I’m also looking at the Rossi One, Never Summer West, and Slash Brainstorm. Think you can help me narrow it down? I’m also not sure if I should size up from the 157?

    Thank you,
    Aaron

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 19, 2018 at 12:47 pm

      Hi Aaron

      Thanks for your message.

      Size-wise, I think sticking with something around 156, 157 would be a good bet for specs and how you describe your riding.

      Since the Raygun 2013 has a flat-to-rocker profile and a softer flex, I would say that there isn’t really one board here that is more similar (which might be one factor to help decide between them), though the hyrbid rocker profiles of the Standard, One LF, and Brainstorm are probably just a little more similar in feel than the West, but not a big deal for your decision, IMO.

      Any one of those would serve you well, IMO (and will be a nice step up from the Raygun, IMO). Size-wise for the Standard, since it’s a wider board, it’s sometimes a good idea to size down a little, depending on your boot size. So for that board, it would be a toss up between the 153 and 156 for you.

      For the others I would say:

      Mountain Twin: 157
      West: 156
      One: 156
      Brainstorm: 157

      Hope this helps with your decision

      Reply

      • Aaron says

        November 19, 2018 at 6:20 pm

        Hi Nate,

        Any of these being a set-up from the Raygun is exactly my reasoning as well, there’s just so many choices!

        I learned to snowboard on the Raygun and have definitely put it through the wringer. Part of the reason I was looking at these is to try out a different rocker/camber profile as I’ve only ever ridden on the K2. Any reason you’d suggest sticking to the flat-to-rocker profile?

        Likewise I was thinking a slightly stiffer board would be a plus now that I’ve got more experience, let me know if my thinking is amiss there.

        Reply

        • Nate says

          November 20, 2018 at 9:58 am

          Hi Aaron

          You’re right on point in both cases. Going a little stiffer now is a really good idea. And going to a profile with camber is also a great idea. It will give you a more lively, dynamic ride. At your level, you should really appreciate that for sure. I wouldn’t recommend sticking with flat-to-rocker. IMO, flat-to-rocker is a good profile for jibbing, good in powder and a good profile for beginners. So, for a jib specialist board or a park board that’s mostly focused on jibs it’s good and for beginners it’s good. That’s my opinion anyway. It’s good in powder too, depending on other specs. But for carving, pop for jumps, general spring and liveliness out of turns, I really like to have camber in there.

          Reply

          • Aaron says

            November 21, 2018 at 8:42 am

            Thanks for the tips Nate, much appreciated!!

            I guess one last question, I noticed that West is Camber/Rocker/Camber whereas the other 3 were all Rocker/Camber/Rocker. I’m not sure what which would be preferred for my riding style (or if it matters at all?). Any advantages to either profile or is it just individual preference?

          • Nate says

            November 22, 2018 at 9:17 am

            Hi Aaron

            My stay just individual preference. Rocker between the feet typically means a slightly looser/more surfy feel. But in the case of the west it’s only very subtly so. Sometimes having rocker tip and tail can help with butters but not necessarily. And often rocker tip and tail is a little better for float in powder. Though rocker between the feet certainly does help with powder float. But yeah mostly personal preference, imo, but I like riding boards with both profiles, so you can certainly like both as well.

            Hope this gives you more to go off

86. Kirby says

    November 5, 2018 at 11:12 am

    Hi Nate,

    I am looking at getting a NS West X. I am 191 cm, 115 kg and size 12 US boots and looking for some help with sizing the board. I ride a lot of treelines, bowls and some groomers. I never go to the park but like to hit naturals frequently.

    Also, could you recommend a binding to pair with the board?

    Reply

    • Nate says

      November 6, 2018 at 10:43 am

      Hi Kirby

      Thanks for your message.

      It’s between the 164X and the 168X, and I would be leaning towards the 168X for you. But to help with your decision, these would be the advantages and disadvantages of each size:

      The 164X will be more agile at slower speeds, better in the trees and better for your natural hits, IMO. It will also likely feel a little softer flexing than the 6/10 that I rate the West at.

      The 168X will be more stable at speed, have better float in powder and be better for when you open out with wider/longer carves. The flex at this size should feel closer to around that 6/10 flex mark.

      In terms of bindings, I would look at the following list. I think something with around a 7/10 flex for you, for this board would be a good range to look at:

      >>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings

      Hope this helps

      Reply

87. Rob Matthews says

    October 26, 2018 at 7:15 am

    Hi Nate
    Wow thanks for the fantastic reply. I’ve just been down to my local shop, turns out my boots are 9.5, sorry didn’t realise.
    Anyway shop helper said the Mountain Twin was not good for powder, more for park and riding switch, also said the Standard wouldn’t be any good in the park or riding switch mainly for powder and groomers? I’m very confused 🙂 They said the Standard would be best in a 156 and for the Mountain Twin a 157 or 160 would be good length, up to me. Thing is I don’t know if I want longer at 160 or shorter? I currently have always ridden a 157 whenever I’ve borrowed or hired. Would I struggle on a longer board given my experience as an intermediate? would a longer board be something I spend a lot of time getting used to again before I have to come home? Sorry just want to make sure I make the right choice, just want something I can pick up and ride without too much re-learning but also I can enjoy all of the mountain whichever bit 🙂
    Thanks, I’ll leave you alone after this 🙂
    Cheers
    Rob