Below are what I rate as the top 5 aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle snowboards for the 2020-21 season.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com, the boards will each be given a rating out of 100.
To give some perspective: of the 20 aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle boards I rated:
OK here's the top 5!
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5
Board: Lib Tech TRS C3
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 88.5/100
The TRS C3 is the #5 board this year - it's new for 2021 and offers a C3 camber version of the longstanding TRS C2X (the TRS is now C3, and the C2X model is gone).
The TRS C3 is an awesome deck for jumps (whether that be in the park or whatever you can find to boost off anywhere else) but is also something you can set a good carve on and simply bomb on, when you feel that need.
Score Breakdown for the TRS C3
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 4/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.5/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #4
Board: YES Ghost
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 89.1/100
The Ghost is a hard charging all-mtn-freestyle ride with a traditional camber profile.
Apart from powder (which this type of board isn’t really designed for) the Ghost doesn’t show any real weaknesses – but it does show plenty of strength.
It’s snappy, aggressive, quick and can really hold a carve. And, though not its forte, it can hit a jib pretty well too when you feel for it. And it still manages to be fairly buttery.
Learn more about the Ghost in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Ghost
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 4.0 | 8/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPINS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
JIBBING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.1/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #3
Board: Salomon Assassin Pro
- CANADA
Flex: Medium-Stiffish (6.5/10)
Rating: 89.7/100
In at #3 is the Salomon Assassin Pro - the big brother to the Assassin.
This board is one of those boards that you can ride aggressively on, when you feel for it, but that you can also slow down and ride more casually when you feel for it, like when you're getting tired.
Overall, it's super light, poppy, snappy and lively and apart from jibbing, it's a take you anyway, ride anyway you want kind of ride. The best on this list for riding powder, IMO.
Learn more about the Assassin Pro in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Assassin Pro
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 4.0 | 8/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.0 | 8/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 3.0 | 3/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.7/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #2
Board: GNU RC C3
- CANADA
- UK/EUROPE
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Rating: 91.4/100
And at #2, we have the all new RC C3. New for 2021, the RC C3 is a C3 camber take on the Rider's Choice (unlike with the TRS C3 - see #5 above - the C2X version of the Rider's Choice remains and the RC C3 is an extra model).
The RC C3 is one of those boards that's just an absolute pleasure to hit any kind of jump on, be it small jumps in the park, big jumps in the park, or whatever sidehit or anything else you can get air off.
And it's not bad for just carving around the mountain on too - and gives you just enough forgiveness that you can get a little casual when you get tired.
Learn more about the RC C3 in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the RC C3
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 5.0 | 20/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 5.0 | 10/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 91.4/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #1
Board: Niche Crux
- CANADA
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 92.0/100
And in the #1 spot, we have the Niche Crux!
As soon as I did my first turn on the Crux, I know they were onto a winner with this one.
It nails jumps, it rails carves and you can really open this board out and bomb, when you feel the need. But at the same time it manages to be relatively buttery for this type of board.
It's just super fun to ride, particularly when carving and hitting jumps of all types.
Score Breakdown for the Crux
RATING | SCORE WEIGHTING | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 92.0/100 |
Over to You
I hope this post has given you some options if you’re interested in an aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle snowboard.
Check out the links under each board to learn more about the board and for current prices. Or check out the full review links for my full breakdown of that board.
Note: If you like your all-mtn-freestyle ride a little stiffer, then there are some great options that didn’t make this list – like the Capita SuperDOA, Ride Burnout/Helix, Never Summer Ripsaw and Burton Freethinker. For me, they were too stiff for an all-mtn-free for my legs and my weight – but if you prefer a stiffer board, have strong athletic legs (not saying that I have weak legs 😉 - but they're average strength) or are on the heavier side, then those, in addition to the options above, are definitely worth looking at.
Hey!
Great reviews and just overall technical information on all categories. I already have a powder board ( 160 Kazu) and love it but wanted something a bit smaller and more nimble. I was thinking either the Salomon Assassin or Assassin Pro. The kazu was my first snowboard so not too much experience with other brands/models. I would think a stiffer board is more stable at all speeds which is why I’m gravitating towards the Pro. I want a board that a can throw spins around easily. Not a huge park rider but still like to hit small features. Mostly groomers, trees, side hits etc.
I’m 5’11” and around 200-205 and size 10 boots with M Union Forces. Was thinking of 156. Would that be too small? Again would love something more nimble to throw spins around and just charge the mountain. Thanks!!!
Hi Andrew
Thanks for your message.
Yeah stiffer typically means more stable at speed for sure. And the Assassin Pro is more stable at speed than the Assassin. Also, I think if you’re looking to go smaller like that, then erring on the stiffer Assassin Pro makes sense (as going shorter the board is going to feel softer than it would in a longer version). So, if you want to ride that kind of length, but still want some decent stability at speed, then I would look at the Assassin Pro. That size is definitely small for your specs, but given you’re looking for something smaller, it’s certainly doable. Just note that it’s likely going to feel softer than what I felt it at. How much softer is hard to say, but I would say the Kazu (157) for me felt around 7/10. The 156 Assassin Pro felt around 6.5/10. The Kazu in 160 probably feels to you similar to what the 157 Kazu felt to me, so roughly 7/10. I’d say you’d feel the Assassin Pro in the 156 at no more than 6/10 – maybe even 5.5/10. The Assassin on the other hand I felt at 5/10 in the 156, so you’d likely feel that more like 4/10 to 4.5/10 – so might be a bit soft if you’re not looking to go super soft and still want decent stability at speed.
So yeah, long story short, Assassin Pro is probably your best bet. I wouldn’t recommend 156 necessarily as your daily driver in that size, but as a second board in your quiver I think it will work given that you’re actively seeking a shorter board and already have a 160 in your quiver.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Thanks for the reply! Yeah I am worried it’ll be too small but I think I need to get in the store and just get a feel for the size. The next size up is a 159 which I wouldn’t be opposed to…
Last thing, what do you think about the Capita Mercury? I was looking at the 157 for that. Seems like a good option for what I’m looking for as well. It’s really hard for me (without seeing and standing on the board) to really tell the difference between say a 156/157 and a 159? On paper it’s only 2cm which is barely an inch but I’m sure it’s a big difference when riding?
Hi Andrew
Yeah I think the Mercury could work for what you’re describing too. I would say the Assassin Pro is a more agile board, which it sounds like you’re looking for, so I’d be leaning a little more that way.
In terms of sizing, it depends no a few things. a. effective edge. When comparing two boards of the same or a similar overall length the board with a longer effective edge will feel longer on snow. Also the difference between effective edge and contact length changes the feel too. b. width – a wider board of the same length feels bigger. So between a 156 and 157, with all else being equal, you wouldn’t notice too much difference, but between the 156 Assassin Pro and 157 Mercury, the Mercury will feel bigger. The Assassin Pro 159 would likely feel more like the 157 Mercury, in terms of size.
2cm can make a noticeable difference. I wouldn’t say a huge difference, but certainly noticeable. I have done side by side tests of the same board, but in different sizes 2cm apart and you certainly do notice it. It’s not drastic but it’s there. And going back to effective edge – it’s that 2cm more effective edge that can really help to notice that difference – even if 2cm over the overall length of the board doesn’t seem like much. I would say if you had to two of the same board, but you added 1cm to the nose (outside the contact points) and 1cm to the tail, you probably wouldn’t notice the difference, or at least not as much as when you add that length to the effective edge. It’s more noticeable there. So yeah, definitely makes a difference when riding. Also adds a bit of weight – not huge amounts, but there’s a bit more going on there – also a wider board is typically heavier, all else being equal.
Hi Nate,
When I went into my local store they only had a 159 Assassin Pro. Looking at the specs, it has almost a full 50mm smaller effective edge than my 160 Kazu which is a full 2 inches. The rep at the store was absolutely against me riding a 156 after telling him my weight. Basically, was hesitant to get a 159 but the Assassin Pro seems to have a really small effective edge compared to other 159s. Hopefully this will make it feel a bit smaller when riding and easier to throw around. Didn’t pull the trigger yet but very close to getting it. Although it’s a 159 and my Kazu is 160, I’m thinking they’re going to be pretty different boards. Not sure what the flex will feel like for the 159? Maybe a 6-6.5, almost similar to the Kazu?
Hi Andrew
Yeah should definitely feel a little smaller, not to the extent that the 156 would (stating the obvious!) but I would still say it should feel noticeably smaller – more subtly but still noticeable. Yeah, I would say flex-wise that the 159 Assassin Pro will still feel a little softer flexing than the Kazu, in the 159, but not by as much. I think 6 to 6.5 would be most likely. With the Kazu more like 7.
Hey Nate
Im looking to get a new all mountain board and might need help with that.
My priorities: solid edge hold for ice, fun carver, wide enough at the inserts (preferably around 270 or more, i like my eurocarves) i know you measure the insert width, so i thought youre the right one to ask:)
The main thing id use it for is carving, side hits, 180s or 360s, some butters.
In the park id only do 50/50s or jumps.
I already own a powder board so pow is not as important.
I thought the gnu rc c3 might be a great option, but it doesnt have a wide enough version (dont know about 2022 though)
Im 185 lbs, size 10 boots (but they are 32 cm long) and consider myself advanced (intermediate in freestyle)
Any other options that come to mind?
Keep up the good work:)
Hi Adrian
Thanks for your message. I did get your other one on the RC C3 review and replied there. But in case you haven’t seen it I have copied my response below:
The 2022 RC C3 is going to be getting wide versions though, if you did want to look at the 2022 model of that. It’s getting a 158W and 162W.
I’m trying to understand if this category fits me … I’m 5’11, 185lbs, intermediate/advanced, been snowboarding for almost 20 years now. Spend most of my time in the tree powder when available but will hit occasionally hit the kickers/side jumps as well as get the mph’s into the 40s when with certain groups of people. I’m consciously trying to spend more time advancing at switch, with (what I think is) a yearning for a more flexible board and I’m certainly overdue for a new deck. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you. Love the thorough content.
Hi Cody
Thanks for your message.
I wouldn’t say these are ideally suited to riding powder in trees. They will do the job for sure but when that powder gets deeper, they will be harder work to keep the nose afloat than something more powder suited. For everything else I think this category would be suitable, particularly the likes of the some of the options on this list, given that you’re looking for something softer flexing, but still able to handle speed. The camber dominant nature of these boards helps with speed, but being not too stiff does help with maneuverability at slower speeds that’s often required in trees. So, in that sense, I think they work, and also given that you want to work on switch.
The biggest question I would be asking is if they’re good enough in powder. If you weren’t that concerned about switch and wanted better powder performance, but still wanted something a little softer flexing, then the following is worth considering:
>>Top 10 Surfy (mellow) Freeride Snowboards
There’s quite a range on that list – it’s quite an eclectic category, so you’d want to make sure to look at something that was still good at speed. Between this and that category (select boards from that category), I think it’s between how much you want to sacrifice either powder or switch performance.
Hope this helps
I am 215 lbs size 11.5 boot. advanced/expert level. I really want to try this board after reading your review.
However, i’m seeing that the biggest size is 159CM available for the board. Do you recommend looking at something else due to small sizing?
Hi Dave
Thanks for your message.
Yeah, I think the 159 is going to be too small. Even if you could get away with it length-wise, the width is probably too narrow anyway.
So yeah, I would look at something else. The 162 Ghost as you mentioned in your other comment on the Crux review would be a good bet, IMO, and certainly wide enough.
Hi I was wondering if maybe u could help me out. I started snowboarding later in life. Been snowboarding for years now but took a few years off. I back on the mt. I am looking to upgrade. I ride lib t rice c2 banana tech horse power from I think 2012! I have button triad bindings and 32 tm2 boots. I am east coast now. I wanted the orca. Like many others. Not sure if it’s a good east coast grommer killer. I demoed the burton deep thinker last week and liked it but with so many choices I can’t pick. I have Cerebral palsy so I need something that holds it’s line and really enjoy high speed carving but also a quick turner for bumps and trees. I ride a 161.5 wide and want to go smaller! The capita bsod is something I really been looking at. At demo store he pushed it onto me but never went capita and like color! So I went with the deep thinker. What do u think for easy turns high speed holder and still playful?? I enjoy most is getting some speed and hard deep carving when u can like jump from one edge to the other with ur deep carve. Kinda like hopping from one edge to the other. Sorry it’s a lot Iam rambling but I cant decide the yes pyl the Ross I like too the xbier rides. It’s on one of ur list. I love Jones graphics Iam lost
Hi Jonathan
Thanks for your message.
The Orca is a good bet for icy conditions, assuming you get those a lot out east, but it’s more designed for powder than groomers, IMO.
If you liked the Deep Thinker, then I think you would like most of the boards you’ve mentioned. Something like the Rossi XV is going to be similar in terms of stiffness and aggression. Certainly different boards but in that sense similar. The likes of the PYL, Flight Attendant, Jones Flagship are very slightly more forgiving than the Deep Thinker from my experience, but can still certainly handle speed and deep carves – but just that little bit more playful.
In terms of easy turning for trees, bumps etc, the PYL and Flagship would be my picks out of those, but the Flight Attendant and XV not too far behind. The GNU Mullair is another option that I think would fit well.
In terms of sizing, I would be happy to give my opinion there – would just need your height, weight and boot size.
Hope this helps
I just made a post to this, did it not work?
Hi Andre
It worked, just needed to be moderated.
For what you’re describing, I think the Hot Knife works for you for sure. It was on this list last year and only reason it’s not here anymore is that Lib Tech didn’t do a 2021 model. My only question would be size. 156 is the right length for you for this board, IMO, it’s just whether you want to go wide or not. If you can let me know your boot size, that would be awesome. But assuming 156W is the best size for you, then I think you’re good with the Hot Knife.
For bindings I agree that something in that 5-7 flex range is a good idea. Probably leaning towards 6 or 7 for flex. Check out the following for some good options:
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
For boots, I would look at something similar. For boots it’s down a little to personal preference, but personally I prefer to at least match the flex of the board with the boots flex or go a little stiffer. So something 6 or 7 out of 10 again, I think is a good way to go. Check out the following for some good options. Plenty of Boa options there, but if you can’t find anything there, let me know and I can give further options.
>>My Top All Mountain (medium to medium-stiff flex) Snowboard Boots
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thank you so much for your fast reply! I wear a sz 10.5-11 shoe but still have to get fitted for boots. I will check out the links you sent for the bindings n boots ASAP. But judging off my shoe size do you think the 156w will be too wide?
Thank you again!!
Hi Andre
I think if you’re in 10.5s or 11s – and your foot is around that 28.5-29cm that the 156W will work fine. If your feet are more like 28cm, then it’s 50/50. If they’re less than 28cm, then I wouldn’t go with the wide model.
If you end up in 10.5s and they’re low profile, then I think the 156 (and other regular width boards) would be fine in terms of boot drag. But if you end up in 11s, then the 156W is the right choice.
After looking though your links I think I am now looking between the Union Strata and the Falcors (leaning more towards the Falcors) and for Boots I have narrowed it down to the Adidas Tactical ADV, Adidas Response 3MC ADV and the Salomon Dialogue Focus BOA. Both the Response and the Dialogue are higher on my list because of the BOA Systems but the Tactical sounds so good it might be worth the extra time to self tie???
Hi Andre
The Falcors are a little stiff and give back a little more response than the Strata’s. They’re also just that slight bit harder to ride slow with, but nothing too bad at all for riding slow. If you want that extra power for carves and a little extra stability at speed, then the Falcors are a good choice. If you want a little more casual (but still good response – and nothing super soft or anything), then the Strata’s would definitely work and both would work with the Hot Knife, IMO.
Boots-wise, those are all good options for sure. Tactical ADVs are super nice boots – but so are the Response and Dialogue Boa for sure. The biggest difference between the Response and Tactical ADV is the boost in the sole in the Tactical ADV.
Hi Nate,
Thank you so very much again for your input, I really do appreciate it a lot! I have called all the shops in my area and NO ONE carries Adidas Boots… not even Adidas LOL. And I am trying to get on the Mountain this week if possible! I have made an appointment tomorrow to meet with a specialist at a local shop and from their inventory I’ve narrowed it down to (in no order)
– Burton Photon BOA
– Burton Ruler BOA
– K2 Boundary BOA
– K2 Maysis BOA
– Ride Lasso / Pro BOA
– Salomon Dialogue BOA (this shop only has the “wide” model but another has normal)
– ThirtyTwo Lashed Double BOA
I’ll also be able to put the Strata’s and Falcor’s on my board to feel them out a lil as well!
Hi Andre
That’s a good list to narrow down to, IMO, to match the Hot Knife and what you’re describing. Everything there is in a good flex range. So, I would go with the boots that feel like they fit your feet the best. The Maysis, Photon and Lasso Pro are slightly stiffer than the rest, but still in a good range. If you feel like you have some that all feel good in terms of fit and you wanted to go a little stiffer (more like 7/10, rather than 6/10 for the rest there), then that could be a tie breaker if you can’t decide, but I would go first and foremost with what feels like the best fit.
Hi Nate,
Just got back from the store! Ended up grabbing the Falcors and ThirtyTwo Lashed Double Boa. The K2 Boundary felt so comfy but the ThirtyTwo felt like they would mold better / hold up better over time. Super stoked to get out there!! Thank you again for your help, I’ll let you know how it is after my first day out!
Hi Andre
Nice one! Look forward to hearing how you get on once you get them out on snow!
Hi Nate, I just got back from a 2 day trip up at Loon Mt in Nh. Again the gear I have are 2020 Lib Tech Hot Knife 156W, 2021 Union Falcors n 2021 32 Lashed double Boa. The First few runs on my first day were amazing, loved how responsive / stable everything felt. However half way through the first day my feet started hurting real bad, prob didn’t help that me and my friend got stuck on a side of the mountain where the lift was down and had to walk 1-2 miles back to the main area and I didnt loosen the boots (the Boots are brand new but have been heat molded, W/ no toe cap). By the end of the first day I felt like my big toe nails were gonna fall off bc they were in so much pain and the 2nd day I had to cut a lil short bc again I had so much pain throughout both my feet (2nd day was more all over pain vs the intense toe nail pain the 1st day). My thoughts are that the boots just need to be broken in a bit more but I will be going to my local shop to get their in put also (Might my something with my bindings / stance?). But overall I love all the gear and it felt amazing to be in the mountains again. Just cant wait til I can ride all day without this foot pain getting out of hand!
Hi Andre
Thanks for the update. Glad to hear your gear is going well apart from the foot pain.
In my experience foot pain is typically down to boots, particularly when it’s in the toes for the most part (hiking in brand new boots probably didn’t help). If there’s cramping in your feet, that’s usually down to boots, but can also be bindings, if they’re not fitting properly. But in your case it sounds like it’s probably mostly boots.
You could try changing your binding angles too and see how that feels. E.g. if you’re riding +15/-15 now, you could try a slightly more forward stance, like +18/-6 or something to see how that feels. Or if you’re already in something closer to +18/-6 or similar, then you could try a duck stance. That might help somewhat, but I’d be surprised if that was the main thing, if anything. Boots the most likely culprit.
YOOOOO whats goooddd Nate? Hope all is well! I just bought a 2020 Hot Knife 156w (I’m 5’10 175ish) I haven’t been boarding in a few years but am a solid Intermediate rider and am amp’d to get back on the Mountains!!! After looking into some other boards / browsing through your awesome site I’m now debating if I should return it and pick up something else. I have narrowed it down to basically all the boards on this list and the YES Greats.
I live in Ma, so will be boarding the North East and we do get our fair share of ice. I usually spend my time about 50/50 with park/all mountain (Although I do need to learn how to take jumps properly!). When I’m on the mountain I’m usually either just chilling carving and looking for every edge / bank to catch some air or bombing it racing some friends (I think a 5-6 flex is ideal for me? As I do like the idea of a playful board I also want the right amount of response / stifness as well.). I would like something to butter with (which is 1 of the reasons the Yes Greats was added) but that isn’t a end all be all be any means. I think a true twin is a must as I do want to learn switch better.
Please let me know your thoughts on what you think would be my best options! I do also need some help picking bindings and boots if you have any recommendations! I really like the Bent Metal brand for bindings but am open to all! The 2021 Joints, 2021 Axtion and the 2020 Transfer’s are on my radar. I am unsure on how stiff I want my boots and bindings to be. I think 5-7 for bindings would be good but I have no idea for boots. All I know for boots is I do prefer the BOA Lacing system.
Note: I did get the Hot Knife on sale for 350 (I think thats a good deal! I grabbed it immediately as it was the last one! But I can return / exchange within the next week) and I’m looking to be somewhat cost friendly but am willing to spend whats needed!
Many thanks in advance!!!
Hey I’m really struggling here. Just wondering if you’d be able to give me some feedback on what to get. I’ve been researching for weeks now day and night and still can’t decide. I will have fun either way but just want to get the best fit as I’m really picky to my gear.
35yo 6′ 225lb upper-end intermediate rider. 11 thirtytwo/11.5 DC boots.. Grew up riding. Took a break but getting back into it. Ride Vermont and NY resorts with occasional backcountry. Lots of ice/harpack with occasional powder.
Love to really lean into carves and drag my hands. Kind of longer sweeper carves but also want something quick for chewed up resort trails. Want something thats good at speed and won’t feel wobbly beneath me. Prefer mid stiff but want something for hitting very small jumps/lips and something nimble when I’m riding slow with my son who’s a beginner if that’s possible.
Leaning Jones MT and Ultra MT. Worried my weight makes MT too soft. Worried UMT is too freestyle focused for just occasionally hitting small jumps and kickers and not enough focus on east coast carves. Also leaning Yes PYL but they have funky sizes and worried it leans too much towards backcountry/powder. Also leaning Yes Standard but again weird sizing either too short/good width or good length but way too long. Gnu/Lib boards sound cool with the magnetracrion for icy conditions and since the C3 are really just a full camber they would carve great and be fun to play with but Im worried full camber is too catchy for someone who wants to get goofy/lazy from time to time with my son. They also have the same type of sizing issues yes has for me. Never summer boards sounds cool minus thr instability of the CRC…..please help 🙏
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message.
Given that you want something that carves hard and bombs but also something that you can ride slow with your son, there will have to be some compromise. I mean for your carving/bombing, you could look at something like a Never Summer Ripsaw or Proto Ultra or the likes of a GNU Billy Goat or Burton Custom X. But not necessarily going to be that friendly for you, when riding slow with your son.
You could certainly look at the UMT. It’s less freestyle focused than the boards on this list, IMO. So I wouldn’t worry about that aspect of it. It’s not super nimble at slow speeds, but it’s decently so. Another really good option, IMO would be the Slash ATV which is surprisingly nimble at slow speeds for how hard it carves/bombs. It’s full camber, so if that worried you that’s one thing, but I didn’t have any issues with it being catchy riding it.
From this list, if you’re wanting something that can also do OK in powder from time to time, I would look at the Salomon Assassin Pro. Or also look at the Salomon Ultimate Ride.
PYL would definitely work. It is more freeride oriented, but also quite nimble at slow speeds for it’s flex. Also it does fine for small jumps – just if you were going to be doing spins, butters etc, then not as suitable.
Size-wise, I would be looking at something around 161-163, to give you something that’s long enough to be able to carve/bomb for your specs, but also not be so long that you can’t slow it down and ride with your son. Of course personal preference comes into too if you have any personal preferences, but that’s what I would say based on specs/how you want to ride.
In terms of width, since you like to rail your carves and you have 11/11.5 boots, I would definitely look at going wide. Even if you didn’t like to rail your carves, I’d still say wide 90% of the time with 11s/11.5s.
Ideally, of course, you would have 2 boards, so you could get one that maximizes carving/bombing and another that you can ride more playful with your son, but totally get that committing to 2 boards isn’t an option for a lot of people.
I don’t find C3 camber catchy most of the time. It’s really close to full camber, but I think that really subtle rocker between the feet still makes a bit of a difference.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision and let me know if you narrow down your options further, if you want particular sizing advice for a small short list.
Hi Nate,
Love the site. I’d love some advice. I’m 28, 5’11”, 180 lbs, and I’ve been riding for about 10 years on a hand me down Custom X 158 cm the whole time. Have been on mainly icy east coast US mountains on groomers but am now in Colorado. I go into the pipe and park but pretty much only hit small and medium jumps, will never touch a rail in my life. I’m looking for something less aggressive, good for riding switch and and in park but still manageable in powder.
Thank you!!
-Jeff
Hi Jeff
Thanks for your message.
I think you’re in the right place here. Everything in this list will be less aggressive than the Custom X, but still have some level of aggressiveness to them. If you wanted to go a little less aggressive again, you could also check out:
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Since you mention powder, I would be leaning towards Salomon Assassin Pro, Assassin or GNU Rider’s Choice.
Hope this helps
Hi,
As others have said your reviews are great!!. I am 6.0 tall 185 lbs size 10 boot, I have been riding a lib tech trs since 2007 and have been riding long before all of these options and profiles existed. Ex instructor 20 years ago now. Spent most of my early years in whistler until leaving shortly after buying the trs. I have not researched anything for 10 years and now find that there is a little info overload, I will be spending the next season on a tiny hill compared to Whistler. Rode the small hill last year and laid out some good carves but could fit in 10 max before I got to the bottom. I’m older Now so I limit my jumps to medium size. I like to play on small boxes and rails. Spin no more than 360. Live for carving reg and switch. I enjoy basic butters. Every review I read on your site makes me want the board I’m reading about!!! I guess I’m looking for a small mountain board that can carve and get the most out of the limited space, if I charge it’s over too fast. Side hits, butters, jumps, small carves, switch anything to keep it entertaining. Open to any board. Keen on Niche – Slash – Lib -Yes. Thoughts appreciated!
Hi Slomo
Thanks for the message.
I definitely get the small mountain thing. And I think you’re in the right place here or >>here.
Definitely wouldn’t go with anything too stiff or something that wants to drag you straight lining it down the mountain. Like you say, you want to make the most of the limited vertical you’ve got.
This isn’t going to make things easier but anything on this list or the top 5 all-mountain-freestyle are going to work really well, IMO, for what you’re describing. There’s not really going to be a bad choice there. If you want something more jib friendly, then something like the YES Greats or GNU Rider’s Choice form the other list would work well – and be a little more buttery. Or the YES Ghost from here. But if you’re looking a little more aggressive, then this list is the better focus. The new TRS would certainly work, as would the GNU RC C3 and Niche Crux, going by the brands you’ve mentioned.
Size-wise, I would err on the shorter side, being on a small hill. Depending on what size you’re used to. But I would probably say more around that 156-158 range, more so than the 159-161 range that might suit you better on a bigger vertical.
Hope this helps
Thanks, Your info helps! I was just about to order a Niche Crux in 156. But…The shop only has 153 and 159 left. 🙁
My TRS is a 159 so I may just grab the crux in that size but not sure.
Hi Slomo
I think the Crux in the 159 would be a good size for you. Just being on the small hill, the 156 might work that little bit better. But 159 is definitely not wrong for you for the Crux
Thanks for the reply. I went and looked over your list for all mountain freestyle . Good stuff there!. Thanks for your help. Question. If you had to choose only 1 board for an entire season and could only ride Mt. Seymour. What would you choose and why? 🙂
Hi Slomo
That’s a really hard question! I typically ride 50+ boards every year. But, for what you’re describing and for that hill, I’d probably opt for the Crux or YES Ghost. But if you were wanting to get into the trees on powder days as well, then I might look more at the Rider’s Choice (C2X) or the Assassin.
Sorry that’s not narrowing it down to 1, but it’s too hard. And honestly any of those boards, I would gladly have at Mt Seymour for the season. I wouldn’t be upset with any of them if someone said this is the only board you can ride here all season.
Hey man great reviews, I’m and intermediate-Advanced Rider who loves Aggressive All Mountain. My last board was Capita Defender of Awesome 2015 with Rome 390 bindings. I love park and jumps as well but mainly love to just bomb down mountains in some fun terrain. I want something I can use for all the above but not lose my speed. Also curious with my binding choice because I am size 10 boot but sometimes medium bindings are to small and sometimes large a bit to big for my board. Looking for a new setup to really get me to a more advanced level. Thanks
Hi Sean
Thanks for your message.
In terms of something aggressive all-mountain-freestyle that can really bomb – not sacrificing in terms of speed, I would look at the Yes Ghost, Assassin Pro or Crux from this list. Or if you can get your hands on a 2020 Salomon Ultimate Ride, that’s another step up in terms of speed, IMO. The 2021 Ultimate Ride has become more directional. The other option is to look for a stiffer aggressive all-mountain-freestyle option, if you thought that might suit you better. Even when it comes to riding an aggressive all-mtn-free board, I personally still don’t like things too stiff – and this list is biased towards that preference. But if you think you like things stiffer, and want to maximize speed (potentially at the expense of other things), then you could look into the likes of the the Never Summer Ripsaw or Proto Ultra, Burton Free Thinker, Ride Burnout. Too stiff for my tastes for this kind of board, but if you prefer things a little stiffer, they are options.
Also, if you’re not set on having a twin and happy to go a little more directional (without going super directional), you could also check out:
>>Top 6 Aggressive All Mountain Snowboards
Yeah with bindings, it really depends on the brand of bindings (some bindings are longer on the baseplate than others for particular sizes) and your particular boot (some are more low profile than others – some are more or less bulky in different areas of the boot too. If you could give me the make and model of your boots, that would help.
Hello Nate
I am looking for a board for me. I only have around 14 days over 4 years of snowboarding. I learn fast as I surf for 13 years and skate too a bit. I am confident with my turns can handle some speed and like it. I would like to learn some tricks next season and progress in all mountain too, switch riding, some jumps, spins maybe some box too. I am 38 years/183 cm/79 kg/11,5US boot size. I am looking for an all mountain freestyle board. Nimble light but to handle speed. Maybe not too soft. Maybe just a bit of powder but that could be a sacrifice as I might get a powder board in the future. I like the Salomon Huck knife pro probably the most for its tech lightness and design too I guess 158wide. Or maybe Lib tech box knife 157wide, but I am afraid it is bit too soft for all mountain. What do you think? I am up for a little challenge at the beginning. I had an old Burton Cruzer for learning, felt stiff heavy and slow comparing to Salomon Assassin 2016 model I tried last winter, which I liked a lot actually much faster and nice to ride.
Hi Pavel
Thanks for your message.
From what you’re describing, I agree that an all-mountain-freestyle board is the way to go. Given your experience level, I would probably look at options in the following list, as opposed to this one – just because the boards here are more technical and typically for more experienced/advanced riders. If you really want to go more aggressive like those in this list it’s up to you (the Huck Knife Pro is in this category too), but if you are going to be learning tricks it will be more difficult. All the boards in the following list are mid-flex options, so not as soft as the Box Knife, but a little more easy going in terms of their camber profiles. They’re not ultra-playful either, but just not quite as aggressive/advanced as those on this list. You will see that the Salomon Assassin is on that list, and I think that would be a good option for you, as well as anything on that list. If you think you’d prefer camber between the feet and rocker tip and tail, what I term “hybrid camber” (like the Assassin is) versus rocker between the feet and camber tip and tail – what I term “hybrid rocker” – then the Assassin, Asymulator and Greats are like that. If you don’t think you have a preference, then anything from there would work well, IMO.
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Oh and size-wise, I think anything 156-158 in terms of length would be a good bet – and for width, you should go wide with 11.5 boots, IMO. So if you were to go Huck Knife Pro, then 158W would be a good size, but I would recommend going for something on the list that I linked to above.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Your reviews are an awesome resource! Can you give me some advice on board sizes?
I’m 5′ 10″, 155lbs and wear a size 9.5 boot
I bought a LibTech TRS about 10 years ago and have really liked it. It’s a 157. I’m starting to wonder if I’d be happier with a 154. Thoughts?
Also, you’ve got me super interested in Yes the Greats. What size would you recommend? 151?
Thanks,
Jon
Hi Jon
Thanks for your message.
For your specs, for the TRS, I would have been weighing up between the 154 and 157, so I don’t think the 157 is completely wrong. I would probably have been leaning towards the 154 though. But part of that is the way that I would be riding the TRS. Which would be riding groomers, looking for whatever side hits I could find, occasional venture into the trees and fairly regular trips through the park. Certainly not to be riding it slow, but would be mostly using it to find interesting things to jump off or weave through, more so than just bombing straight line down the hill. It wouldn’t be my powder board of choice, so I wouldn’t take it out on a powder day, so I wouldn’t take that into account for sizing. If you are more of a bomb the hill at speed and use it for regular deep-ish powder outings, then I think 157 is probably more appropriate. So, it really depends, but overall for the type of board and your specs, I would say 154 for you.
For the Greats, a similar argument, but I would be debating between the 154 and 151. Rather than between the 157 and 154. So, if the above sounds like you would prefer 154 in TRS, then I would go 151 for Greats – and if the above makes you prefer the sound of 157 for TRS, then I’d say 154 for Greats, if that makes sense.
Hope this helps
Awesome Nate! Thanks for the quick reply and advice. Super helpful! I like to hit the park a bit more rather than bomb down the mountain, so will lean toward the shorter options!
You’re very welcome Jon. Happy riding for the next time you’re able to get to the snow!
Hello Nate,
unfortunately my Jones ultra mountain twin 2017 broke. So In Will need a new board.
I actually tought the mountain twin ultra was a bit to stiff for me.
I maybe want to buy two new boards one for learing butters and learing spins on rails and stuff.(I think I Will buy skate banana)
And one more for on the mountain and side hits, sometimes park.
this board I have a lot of Trouble choosing.
Because the yes ghost does sound exactly like the board I want but, the specs says the board is for advanced people.
I checked out your list : what are the snowboarding skill levels .
And well I am between level 6 and 7 according to your list. 7 is advanced and 6 is still Intermediate.
I have no problem at all with speed and carving It is like second nature to me and it doesn’t matter on wich kind of slope I am or steep terrian or whatever.
And I can do big jumps.
and on smal jumps i can do 180 , 360 spins.
But I want to improve switch riding.
I can do it but it is not that good I don’t feel very comfortable doing it.
I really want to be better at it.
But is a board like the yes ghost then still the right choice ? Because on board the boards I Am going to buy I want to be able to ride switch . Is that still posible because I Am still not that comfortable riding switch.
Would the yes the greats be a better choice ?
Because It says beginner tot expert .
I always goof and jump around with Any board on Any slope so I hoping for An playful board.
Because It Will still be my main board.
The Jones ultra mountain twin was a sick board but I Will never buy it again it was to stiff and nog playfull enough .
The board doesn’t need good specs for powder BTW.
I Am sorry if my english is not good or not spelled correctly I Am from Holland so english isn’t my main language.
I really hope you Will help me out.
Hi Jelle
Thanks for your message.
I don’t think you would have too many difficulties with the YES Ghost. It’s certainly not as stiff as the Ultra Mountain Twin. It’s got a full camber profile, which is a little more technical, but it’s not the hardest board in the world to ride. I wouldn’t say it was playful – it’s more on the aggressive side, but it’s certainly more playful than the Ultra Mountain Twin, IMO. I would say it’s upper intermediate to expert in terms of ability, so I think it sounds like you fit in there with that.
That said, I think the Greats would work really well for what you’re describing too. The Ghost is find for riding switch, even if you’re still not that confident with switch yet – but the Greats is even better/easier for riding switch – and it’s still good for carving and speed – but just not quite as aggressive as the Ghost. A good all-round board, with the biggest weakness being powder (but like you said, you don’t need that aspect). I wouldn’t say the Greats was a beginner to expert, it’s still not quite friendly enough for a beginner, but certainly a from low-end intermediate and up. It’s a little more playful than the Ghost. It feels slightly softer flexing (even though YES rate them at the same flex), and has those rocker sections tip and tail that make it more forgiving/playful too.
Both will definitely do what you’re describing well – with the Ghost being a little more aggressive and a little more challenging to ride, but not as challenging as the Ultra Mountain Twin, IMO. The Greats a little more playful and a little easier to ride – and a little better/easier for switch.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank you do much for your reply .
I really appreciate that.
You’re very welcome Jelle. Happy riding!
Hi Nate, appreciate the reviews and especially your willingness to answer folks questions. I’ve been riding for 9 years and consider myself an advanced/expert snowboarder who can ride anywhere on the mountain. I’m looking for a true twin that will really let me work on my fundamentals: locking in my carves, get a good feel for edge control and to get away from skidded turns in firm/hard conditions.
I’m 6’1″, 180 lbs, and I’ve currently been riding a full rocker Arbor Wasteland 160, which is decent in soft conditions and for butters and spins, but terrible for the icier days we get in CA when it doesn’t snow for a while. On softer groomers I can really lock in my carves, but as soon as it gets firm I’m lost. I’m in the market for a board that would only be for those firmer days, as I’d keep using the Arbor for soft groomers/buttering and I also have a powder specific board.
The shops in my area unfortunately don’t demo many boards in my size. On firm days this season I was able to get on a Burton Flight Attendant 162W, which felt like a good aggressive camber but was directional and was very torsionally stiff, and a Ride Twinpig 156W, which was way too soft for the firm stuff and didn’t have much of a camber to it. I’ve been recommended the Burton Freethinker, but can’t find one in my size to demo. Any suggestions or thoughts on what else to explore? Thanks for your time and putting up all this great info!
Hi Tom
Thanks for your message.
I haven’t ridden the Twinpig, but from what I know it is relatively soft flexing. And from experience with other Ride boards, I haven’t found them necessarily that great in hard/icy conditions.
For what you’re describing, I think you’re in the right place here.
The Freethinker is certainly an option if you’re looking for something stiffer. I would say it’s as stiff as the Flight Attendant, so if you wanted to come down in stiffness from that just a little, but still of course be stiffer than the Twin Pig, then something like the Burton Paramount would be a good option, if you wanted to go Burton.
But yeah, basically everything in this list has decent edge-hold in hard/icy conditions and are good carvers. Since you’re looking for a twin, then more appropriate than the likes of the FA and certainly more appropriate vs the TwinPig (from what I hear) in terms of flex, carving, camber and edge-hold. If you did want to go Ride, then the Helix or Burnout would be more appropriate than the Twinpig, for what you’re describing, IMO.
Width-wise, any reason you went wide with the FA and Twinpig demos? Do you have issues with drag on the Wasteland 160? What is your boot size?
Length-wise, I think something around that 158-160 would be a good range to look at with your specs for this type of board.
Hope this helps
Hey Nate, thanks so much for the reply. I am a size 10 boot. I rode the wide sizes bc that’s what they had available to demo for my length of board, and I was curious about trying a wider width to be able to lay down a deeper carve. I’m not married to Burton or Ride as a company; those were just the boards I found to demo. I’ll poke around my shops and see if the have the Paramount or any of the others on this list to try. Appreciate the help!
You’re very welcome Tom. Let me know how you get on, and let me know if you have anything else you want to bounce off me.
Dear Nate,
First of all, I want to mention that I really like your page. I just saw a really nice offer online for the Ride Machete GT 2018 (164cm), and I was wondering if you have ridden this board before? The size/waist is good for my length and foot size but I read some comments that the edge hold is rather medium and that it is so damp, that it feels like a dead board. I’m an intermediate rider and normally ride just a bit faster than a casual rider. I hope you could give me some advice!
Kind regards,
Jules
Hi Jules
Thanks for your message.
The 2017 Machete GT was the last model that I rode, but I think the 2018 was similar if not the same. You can see more of what I thought of it in my Machete GT Review. But yeah, just quickly, I didn’t find it an overly “snappy” board. More on the damper side. And edge hold in hard/icy conditions wasn’t terrible, but not the best either. I would say medium is pretty accurate.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I haven’t been able to find a lot of information on the Niche. I’m in between the Niche and the Westmark Camber for an all-mountain freestyle charger and I can’t decide between the two. It seems as though you would favor the Niche and I’m just wondering if you could illuminate why you would take it over a board like the Westmark. Would you mind doing a quick comparison between the two in terms of speed/stability, carving, and buttering? Is there anything that stands out in terms of durability for either board?
Thanks!
Also, at 6’2 190 lbs, what size would you recommend for the niche? I prefer a slightly shorter board so I was leaning towards the 156. My boot size is 10.5
Hi Cole
I rode the 156 and really liked that size. It’s probably a little shorter than most would ride with my specs too, but I like to ride a little shorter too. I’m 6’0″, 185lbs, size 10 boot. So you’ve got a little bit of size on me, but not a whole lot, so I think the 156 is doable, given that you like to ride shorter. It has a good effective for a 156 – not quite as much as the Westmark 156, but more than the DOA 158 (which you were also considering from out conversation on the DOA review).
Width-wise, the Crux 156 is 265mm at the inserts, so just a touch wider than the Westmark, but essentially the same. I would say that you would be fine width-wise on it. A lot of other Niche boards have a very small difference between waist width and width at inserts, but the Crux bucks that trend, so I don’t think you’ll have any issues width-wise.
Hope this helps
Hi Cole
Yeah, the Crux is new for 2020, so not much about it yet. I haven’t done my full review for it yet – it’s on the long list of things I need to get done!
I’d say one of the biggest differences between the Crux and the Westmark is stabilty at speed. The Crux just felt more stable when opening it out. And a little better on a carve too, IMO. But I put them in different categories. There’s certainly some overlap between categories – and the likes of the Westmark (which I put in the freestyle category) could just as easily be in this category (the Burton Paramount is another that could easily crossover), but I like to include some more aggressive options in the freestyle/park category. That and I like the flex for this category to be over 5. Now, the Crux only just makes that, but the Westmark (even though rated at 6/10, I felt it more at a 5/10) is just that little softer flexing. Of course these categories are just ways of organizing and boards are more fluid than fitting neatly within them. Also, speed is given more weighting in this category than the Freestyle category, so the Westmark performs better in that category. Hope that makes sense!
In terms of buttering, I would say they are fairly close in that department.
As far as durability goes, I don’t have the boards for long enough to get any bearings re durability. And I haven’t really heard anything either negative or positive about either brand in terms of durability.
From what you’re describing, that you have a penchant for speed, I would be leaning towards the Crux for that reason.
Hi Nate,
I think you right with the niche, the only thing holding me back is the directional shape which I’ve never had, but probably wouldn’t take long getting used to with the crux! Not going to lie though, I love the blunted nose and tail on the Westmark.
Is the Magne-traction mellow on this board or is it more of an aggressive edge hold? I’ve never ridden grip-tech or Magne-traction and I’m a little worried about the catchiness when it comes to over-under rotating.
The last question for you: did you find the crux to be a lighter board and to spin well?
Thanks again for your time and advice!
Cheers!
Hi Cole
In terms of the Crux’s shape. It’s directional twin. In most ways it’s a twin. The only difference is a nose that’s 1cm longer than the tail. And that extra length is pretty much just from a slightly different shape to the nose (slightly more pointy – but not that pointy, just that the tail is very flat) vs the tail. Between the contact points it’s a twin. So mostly, the difference comes down to when riding in powder – and maybe some difference in buttering, though I didn’t feel any difference off the nose or tail. But sometimes it can be a psychological thing too, when you’re looking down at it.
In terms of magne-traction, it’s very subtle on the Crux – especially compared to some of Niche’s other boards. In fact they don’t even call it Magnetraction on the Crux – they label it as “2 x traction bumps”. And it didn’t feel grabby at all to me. It had good edge hold, but not overly aggressive in terms of that edge-hold – very mellow, IMO.
I found the crux great to spin – plenty of pop and easy to get the spin around. Not sure what the board weights – didn’t get a chance to weight it, but it felt light enough on snow. Not ultra light, but about normal in terms of weight.
If you’re instinct is saying Westmark Camber, that’s certainly a board that will do the job for you, IMO. It’s just the speed factor that has me leaning towards the Crux.
what size hot knife for 80kg 11.5us boot, for park and all mountain.
their size guides are not very specific…. haha
Thanks!
Hi Jarod
Thanks for your message. Yeah Lib Tech’s size guides pretty vague all right!
I would say wither 156W or 159W. But to decide between those 2, if you could let me know your height and ability level, as well.
Hi Nate,
Thank you very much for your work here, it is really helping me a lot to buy a new snowboard. I am 1,8m tall, 72kg and 9,5 shoe size.
I am a casual rider and have had the same board for 13 years but last year I tried the Lib Tech Travis Rice Pro C2 for 10 minutes and loved it. I felt it really fast and stable and I am looking for that but also something playful although I am not too much interested in the park. I love also powder although it is not so common where I usually go. I love to take advantage of bumps and the sides of the piste for small jumps and catch some powder.
I was thinking on the Hot Knife based on your review and your top 5 Aggresive All-Mountain Freestyle board comparison. However, I have doubts because it is C3 traditional camber board as mine and the shop guy told me that if I liked C2 I should go for the Travis Rice Pro which I would have more fun with and would be more forgiving.
I thought that the Capita DOA could be something in between but I am lost and the Travis Rice Pro looks also a good option as per my feelings when I tried it.
I would really appreciate if you could bring some light with your recommendations.
I am thinking on the 153cm board size. Do you think that would fit me?
Currently I have Flow bindings and I am used to quick entry, what bindings and size would you recommend me? Do you know any appropriate quick entry binding for these boards?
Thank you so much!!! I am looking forward for your tips!!
Hi Carlos
Thanks for your message.
If you’ve tried the T Rice Pro and like it, then that’s certainly an option. The camber profile on the T Rice Pro is more forgiving than on the Hot Knife, but the T Rice Pro is also noticeably stiffer, in my experience, and that makes it less forgiving at slower speeds. I found the T Rice Pro less enjoyable at slower speeds, than the Hot Knife (but awesome at higher speeds). The T Rice Pro is better in powder though, so that’s certainly a plus if you’re wanting something that can ride powder better.
I think both would serve you well, but since you felt good on the T Rice Pro, and you want it to be somewhat good in powder (the Hot Knife isn’t, IMO), then I think that’s a safer bet.
Size-wise, I think the 155 is probably the better option. You could certainly ride the 153 and that would give you a little more playfulness and maneuverability at slow speeds, but would sacrifice stability at speed, float in powder and in terms of carving. If you really wanted a shorter board, the 153 would be doable, but overall I would say go for the 155.
In terms of quick entry bindings, they’re not something that I’ve ridden in quite a while, not something I test currently, so I don’t have a lot of knowledge there. But I would say go for something that’s around 7/10 in terms of flex, to match the T Rice Pro (if that’s what you go for).
Hope this helps with your decision
Hello Nate
I have noticed confusing ratings between snowboard types, for example a 3,5 in the speed factor for an aggressive all mountain freestyle board while for a (non aggressive) all mountain freestyle board the rating was 4. That being so, should I compare between boards within the same type or does it mean that 4 is always faster than 3,5 regardless the board type?
This question can be extrapolated to other factors as Powder, Carving…
Thank you for your hard work, all the information that you are providing is really helpful.
Hi Carlos
I do tend to compare between categories more closely, because that’s when I’m directly comparing. I do try to get a universal feel across categories but it’s more difficult to be accurate when I’m not directly comparing. So yeah the comparison between categories will be more accurate but I do try to get some cross-category consistency as well.
In terms of between aggressive all-mtn-freestyle and all-mtn freestyle, typically an aggressive all-mtn-freestyle is more likely to be a better board at speed, but some boards are aggressive in feel but aren’t necessarily as stable at speed as some other less aggressive boards, if that makes sense.
Hope this helps/makes sense
thank you very much for the answer, you do a great thing here!
You’re very welcome Rico
hello nate, which is faster to capita doa or yes standard, what are the differences between them?
Hi Rico
I’d say they’re fairly even in terms of speed. Both are pretty good when riding fast and feel fairly stable at speed. Not too much difference in terms of speed from what I can remember there.
They are quite different boards:
1. They have different camber profiles. The Standard is camber between the feet and under the feet and rocker tip and tail. The DOA is also camber between the feet and under the feet, but then it goes flat from just after the inserts towards the tip and tail – and then there’s a very small section of rocker just before the contact points.
2. The Standard is a wider board and incorporates what YES call “mid-bite” which essentially means it is cinched in at the waist. So the width at the inserts is wider at the waist and tip and tail than typically would be the case. The DOA is more traditionally shaped.
3. The Standard is a volume twin – there’s a little more volume in the nose but otherwise it’s a twin shape. The DOA is a true twin.
4. The Standard is a little stiffer (rated 4.5/5 by YES but what I would consider more like 6 or 6.5/10) but not by much – the DOA is 5.5/10.
5. The DOA is a more aggressive feeling board, IMO.
6. The Standard is designed to be ridden both centered and setback (in what YES calls “Slam back inserts”). The DOA is designed to be ridden centered.
Those are some of the major differences – but there are lots of other differences too – the materials used for their construction differ quite a bit too.
Hi Nate, I really enjoy your site. You seem to be very passionate about the sport. Anyway, I’m 50 years old and I have been snowboarding on and off since my early 20’s. I’m looking to get a new board and get back into it more now that my kids are older. I have typically stuck with Burton over the years. I come from a surfing background and absolutely love to carve and hit powder. These days I’m close to 200lbs and 5’11”. My current boots are 10.5 but feel they might be a half size too small if they don’t end up packing out. I have my eyes on a 2016/17 Burton Custom 160cm. The waist width is 255mm and the spec sheet indicates a “large” binding size. Does that seem too wide or just right for me? Generally, what size should I be looking for length and width? Thanks in advance.
Hi Lee
Thanks for your message.
In terms of length, I’d say anything around that 161cm mark, give or take, so 160cm would be a good length for you, IMO.
For width, if you stay on 10.5s then anything from around 252mm at the waist, assuming something like +15/-15 binding angles (i.e. a good amount of angle on the back foot) – but if you have a straighter angle on the back foot, then going for at least 255mm at the waist is a good idea. If you go to 11s, then 254mm would be the minimum waist width I would go for and only if you have a good angle on your back foot for your binding angles.
Since you’ve been riding since your early 20s, you are likely used to a traditional camber profile – so that’s what the Custom is, so that would be a good choice in that respect. However, there are boards that would be better for powder. The Custom has a bit of a setback stance which helps in powder but having some rocker in the nose helps with powder too. However, assuming that you’re used to riding traditional camber in powder, there’s no reason you can’t stick with that – but if you wanted slightly more effortless float, then you could look at something like a hybrid rocker (which has camber between the feet and under the feet but rocker towards the tip and/or tail [depending on the board]).
Generally All-Mountain and Freeride boards are the best for powder with all-mountain boards being a bit more versatile and freeride boards more specialized towards Speed, Carving and Powder. You can check out the links below if you want to check out some options.
>>My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
~ My Top 5 Freeride Snowboards
But the Custom would definitely work if you wanted to stick with something Traditional Camber and the 160cm would be a good length for you, IMO. The width should be just right too – depending on your binding angles and whether you stay in 10.5s or have to go to 11s.
Hope this helps
Thanks Nate! I pulled the trigger on a Burton Custom 160 from last season. I will be taking it on its maiden voyage this week to Wintergreen, VA. Then Utah next month for real snow. Anyway, I really really appreciated your reply. Your advice was the deciding factor. Your site in general has been a valuable resource. I keep finding myself coming back to it for a variety of information. Best wishes in the New Year and keep up the excellent work! -Lee
You’re very welcome Lee. Hope you enjoy your new board – and you’re trip to Utah!
Hi Nate
I’m a fem 52yrs old wanting to buy my 30year anniversary board. I got a snowboard in 1990 in Australia. I’m currently riding a Nidecker Axis 154cm ( probably 15 years old. I just want to cruise the mountain with a forgiving board, stable at speed with easy to initiate turns and hit small walls etc that will hold its edge on variable snow conditions ( mainly icy, groomed hard pack or heavy spring) …..um I’m a bit heavier these days, 200+ lbs 5”5 US 8 always ridden men’s boards with traditional cambers…Sims,( 1991) caught edges riding flat at speed) Ride 158(1995 white deck with black lines loved this baseless bindings) tried to retrofit some base bindings and rode but not the same….oh yeah with a purple deck ……A lot of the female boards seem too small to me….Your thought are highly valued
Hi Vanessa
Thanks for your message and congratulations on your 30 year anniversary!
Size-wise, I think something around 156 is a good length for you, but you could certainly ride anything 154-156. The main reason I wouldn’t go men’s is that most boards in that length in men’s boards are probably too wide to be ideal for your boot size. When you say US8, I assume you mean US Women’s 8? Or are you in men’s boots too? Even if it’s US Men’s 8 (equivalent to US women’s 9), most men’s boards in that length are still wider than ideal. Doable, but the reason I’m thinking getting you on an ideally widthed board is that you want easy turn initiations but still maintain stability at speed. To maintain that stability at speed, you won’t want to go too short. But if you’re riding something that’s too wide, then you would need to go shorter, in order get that forgiving feel with easy turn initiations (of course there are other things that also contribute to this, but if we can get the size right to start with, that makes everything else easier).
So, to maintain stability at speed, I think it’s a good idea to stick to something around that 156 mark. But if it’s too wide, then it takes more effort and energy to apply pressure to the edges. So, that’s a really long of saying going with a women’s 155/156, should be at a better width than a man’s 155/156, but you can maintain that length but in a width that is going to be easier to initiate turns on.
Long story short, taking everything into account, I think these would be great options for you:
– YES Hel Yes 155
– Jones Twin Sister 155 – although this could actually be getting no the wide side, even though it’s a women’s board – one of the wider women’s options. And very slightly not as good on ice as Hel Yes, but not much in it.
– Never Summer Aura 155 or 157 – a touch stiffer than the Hel Yes and Twin Sister, but if you went 155, I don’t think it would feel too stiff. But they aren’t making a 2020 model, so would only be if you could find it in 2019
– GNU Klassy 155 – although the same waist width as the Twin Sister, it’s narrower at the inserts – Jones boards tend to be quite wide at the inserts vs the waist, whilst GNU boards are the opposite – they tend to be quite narrow at
the inserts compared to the waist. This is more of a freeride, rather than all-mountain board, but if you’re not riding a lot of switch, could still work
– GNU Ladies Choice – 153.5cm – on the shorter side for what we’re looking at but doable, especially considering it still has reasonable effective edge vs overall length (which is the most important thing for stability at speed). This is more all-mountain-freestyle, which would suit you fine, so long as you’re not often in deep powder. In shallow powder it will be fine, but if you ride a lot of deeper powder might get a bit frustrating. Otherwise another good option.
There are of course a lot of other options, if you were to size down to something like 152. But for the reasons discussed before, I think you’re better off around that 154-156 range.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate. I love your reviews!! Maybe you can provide me with some guidance on my next board.
I’m an intermediate to advanced rider. I’m 6’2 215 lbs size 11 boot. I ride goofy but can ride regular also. I started on a Burton Bullet 164w and then a Rossignol Circuit 165w. I mostly ride in the Poconos, upstate NY and Vermont. So it’s more hard snow, icy and some powder. I ride pretty fast, enjoy carving, and last season was trying to learn some basic jumps, 180s/360s, small boxes and rails, and basic tricks. I’m looking for a board that will cater to my style and also help learning jumps and tricks a little easier. I guess I’m more of an all mountain rider that wants to add some play as I ride down. Maybe go into the park to touch the small and basic stuff. I was told to check out the Burton Custom Twin. I am open to all other options also. I don’t mind going down in board size as long as I’m able to stay stable at faster speeds. I’d appreciate whatever feedback you can give me. Thanks.
Hi Marquise
Thanks for your message.
Burton haven’t made the Custom Twin in a 2018 model (though you still may be able to find a 2017 model?). However, I feel like the Custom Twin might be on the aggressive side, especially if you are just starting out learning jumps, jibs, spins etc. Also, coming from two softer boards (Bullet and Circuit) and one that has quite a lot of rocker in the profile (Circuit), going stiffer and all camber is probably fine for your general riding but it will make learning jumps and tricks more difficult.
I think something from the following list (maybe not Assassin-Pro as it’s a bit stiffer – and others have found it even stiffer than I did) would be a good place to look.
>>My Top All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
The boards in that list are less aggressive than the Custom Twin and the boards in this list – but they can still carve and ride at speed. But I think they’re just going to be a bit better for the other things you’re about to try than the other things in this list. And I think you’ll get a good increase in terms of carving performance compared to your last 2 boards – even if you were to size down a little bit.
In terms of length, I would say that something around that 164, 165 mark is a good length for your all-mountain size, so I think you’ve made good length choices with your previous boards. But you could come down a couple of cms for an all-mountain-freestyle board – and also, going a little shorter will help with learning freestyle stuff. You will sacrifice a little when it comes to powder, carving and speed but as long as you don’t go too much shorter it won’t affect those too much , compared with going with the longer lengths.
In terms of width, with size 11s. I think you probably want to stick to something with at least a 255mm waist width, and only that narrow if you have binding angles like +15/-15 (i.e. a decent angle on your back foot). If you tend to ride with quite a straight angle on your back foot (I say back foot because it’s always angled less than or the same as the front foot), then at least 260mm at the waist would be a safer bet.
So with all that in mind, I think the following sizes:
~ Never Summer Proto Type Two: 161X (265mm waist)
~ YES Greats: No suitable length or width unfortunately
~ Capita Outerspace Living: 160 (though this would be pushing it in terms of being both shorter and a good bit narrower than your current boards – and would only be an option with a good angle on that back foot)
~ GNU Rider’s Choice: 162W (268mm waist) or 161.5 (258mm waist) – depending on binding angles and preferences.
Even if you do have a good angle on that back foot, you could still go wide if you felt like that’s what you’re more comfortable with, it’s a personal preference. The narrower options would provide a bit more maneuverability and edge to edge speed, but sacrifice a little in terms of stability.
You could also look at the Salomon Assassin (a slightly softer flexing version of the Salomon Assassin Pro) – in terms of size, the 160W would be best (and only suitable size), IMO.
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate. I appreciate the feedback. I stopped by a ski shop earlier and was told the custom twin wasn’t really the ideal choice for me. They were pushing the Capita DOA 161w my way though. I did find this board pretty intriguing and the price was nice also. I did read some good stuff on the Never Summer Proto Type Two and also the Yes Great. I will look a little more as I am looking to make a purchase sometime this week.
Hi Marquise
The DOA is also a more aggressive ride – but not as much as the Custom Twin and it does have some flat zones and very short rocker section towards tip and tail which help to make it a little more of a forgiving ride than the Custom Twin was. The 161W would be the best size for you too, IMO.
What do you think of the lib tech trs
Hi Emmanuel
I like the TRS. It’s not what I consider aggressive enough to include in this particular list but certainly an all-mountain-freestyle board. The last couple of years I had it in the top 5 all-mountain-freestyle list but this year it would have been number 6. I felt that when they added the TNT base that the board, for lack of a better description, felt more “slippery” – it just lost a little bit of stability at speed, IMO.
But overall it’s a super fun board, awesome for jumps, spins, a good little carver, and about as good as it gets for the pipe. It’s a great board in hard/icy conditions – if you encounter those a fair bit. And not terrible at speed by any means – just I felt not quite as good as it was. So yeah a great board, IMO – and I’m thinking about expanding that all-mountain-freestyle list to 10 (either later this season or next season – whenever I can find the time!) so that I can include the TRS in addition to a couple of other great all-mountain-freestyle boards that would be in the top 10.
For more details, check out my full review of th TRS at the link below:
>>Lib Tech TRS Review
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Have you ever be able to test a Burton Custom Twin Flying V. I bought this one recently because of the promises of the flying v profile but then realized that I am not happy with its carving. It is obvious that flying v will not perform as its sister with a regular camber at carving but I would appreciate your thoughts. Maybe there is something wrong how I perform carving with this profile. I usually found myself skidding at steeper slopes and at high speeds. Maybe you give me some tips to improve carving with a Flying V.
Hi Ahmet
I haven’t had a chance to ride the Custom Twin Flying V yet. But based on the difference between other custom versions in camber and flying v profiles, there is quite a distinct difference between the 2. The two profiles really do make for completely different feeling boards.
I’m not sure there is a way to carve better on the Flying V – I think it’s just not as nice to carve on. It’s a more forgiving, more playful feel and has it’s place for sure. But for carving the camber versions are just better. I think also when the snow is hard or icy, carving with that flying V becomes even more difficult.
If there’s a technique for carving better on the Flying V, I don’t know it. That’s not to say that it’s a profile that I don’t like. I find that Flying V a lot of fun to ride – but for laying down carves it’s not amazing.
Hope this answers your question
Hi Nate，
I started snowboarding this winter.I am not sure what level I’m at .
Anyway I can link my turns pretty well and already started learning to carve.
I’ve been renting crappy boards for a while and thinking about getting my own board.
Do you think a 156cm or 158cm length “defender of awesome” is good choice for me?( 5’11 170lb)
If not what’s your suggestion?
Thank you nate!
Hi Ruchi
If you were to go with the DOA I think that the 156cm would be your best size for that board.
However, it’s not the easiest board to ride. Even though it sounds like your progressing really quickly, the DOA is more aggressive/technical than I would normally suggest for someone in their first winter of riding. If your set on it then I’d go 156cm.
But if you want something a bit more easy going (but still really good for carving) that I think will make for quicker progression, you should check out the link below. These are similar types of boards to this list but just a little less aggressive and a little easier to ride.
~ My Top 5 All-Mountain Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this helps
Thank you Nate for your reply and it really helps! I’d either go with Never summer prototype or Capita DOA.
Cheers!
Hi Ruchi
You’re very welcome. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new board (whichever you go with)!
Hi Nate, i am an italian “intermediate-level” rider and i fell in love with your web page!
I am looking for a snowboard but i don’t understand the difference between an AGGRESSIVE-all mountain-freestyle board and an all mountain one..
I mean: what “aggressive” stands for? something harder to ride at its highest potential? Sorry but i don’t get it ehehe 🙂
Sorry for my bad english 🙂
Hi Alberto
Aggressive just means that it’s designed to be faster and ride in a way that you take more aggressive lines and is not so much playful. This category of boards is also designed to be used for freestyle type riding as well as all-mountain riding, hence aggressive all-mountain-freestyle.
There are many aspects of the board that contribute to it being aggressive or playful.
It does also mean that it’s typically a bit more technical to ride – so not for the beginner.
If you want to learn more about the different styles of boards check out the link below
~ What Style of Snowboarder are You?
If you are an intermediate rider you could ride these types of boards but I would only do so if you know that you like to ride aggressively. If you prefer your riding more casual or in between casual and aggressive, then something that is “all-mountain” or “all-mountain-freestyle” would be a better option. Check out the links below to see some all-mountain and all-mountain-freestyle options.
~ My Top 10 All Mountain Snowboards
~ My Top 5 All-Mountain-Freestyle Snowboards
Hope this answers your question
It is really helpful !
Thank you so much !
I will search a new board for me !
At the same time , one of my Fd ( intermediate level ), in 180cm , 80kg
Blinding : Burton mission
Boots : Burton ion
70% ride
30% park
He is also interested to have a capita Doa.
What size of the board will fit him ??
Thank you Nate !!
Hi Larry
You’re very welcome.
For your friend I would say either the 156 or 158 – assuming that he doesn’t have a boot size larger than US11.5.
I would usually say automatically the 158 but I really enjoyed this board in the 156 and I’m 183cm and 83kg (so quite similar to your friend).
If he likes to do a lot of freestyle type riding when he’s on riding outside of the park (like I do) then I would say the 156 is the better option – more maneuverable and better for spins. However, if he wants a bit more stability at speed and a bit more edge-hold for carving etc, then the 158 would be the better choice.
If he has boots of 11.5 or up, then the choice would be between the 155W and the 158W.
Hi nate !
I am a beginner that only know how to s turn.
And I am interested to buy a board for few seasons.
I would like to know is capita DOA 160cm will be a good choice for me ?
(179cm and 79kg)
Thank you so much !!!
Hi Larry
I wouldn’t suggest the DOA for you. It’s not really suitable as a beginner board. It’s quite an aggressive board – it’s an awesome board once you know how to ride and if it’s suited to how you like to ride – but it’s too aggressive to be ideal as a beginner board.
I would check out my top 5 beginner snowboards at the link below as a starting point for a beginner board.
>>My Top 5 Beginner Snowboards
Hope this helps
Hi nate
Im thinking between custom twin and yes the greats lately and im not sure which one to buy.
It would be great if you help me out by comparing them by detail .
thank you very much
Hi Nima
There are a few differences between these two. Mainly the Custom Twin is a more aggressive ride (hence it’s on this list and the Greats is on the All-Mountain-Freestyle list).
The Custom Twin has an almost Traditional Camber profile – so it’s mostly camber with some small flat sections and a little bit of rocker towards the tip and tail. It feels close (but not quite) to a full camber board to ride. The Greats on the other hand is a Hybrid Camber – it still has that camber underfoot but has more rocker in the tip and tail. This gives it a more playful, easier going type feel.
In terms of the specs I think the Greats has it over the Custom Twin for riding switch – but only just. They are both great for riding switch but the Greats has asymmetry and that makes it just that tiny bit better. But I wouldn’t choose based on this alone.
They’re both amazing for jumps so it’s hard to choose between the two on that factor – the YES greats only just.
In terms of carving and speed, very similar again but I’d say that the Custom Twin was a tiny bit better for carving.
Both are about the same for jibbing and the Greats is a little bit more suitable for powder because of that extra bit of rocker – but they’re both not great in powder.
Both boards are pretty close in terms of their strengths and weaknesses. I think the main difference is their feel. If you want something a little bit more aggressive, then the Custom Twin is the way to go. If you want something just a bit more playful – but still not like super loose or anything like that, then the Greats is the better choice.
Hope that helps with your decision.