Below are what I rate as the top 5 aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle snowboards for the 2019-20 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 17 aggressive-all-mountain-freestyle boards I rated:
OK here's the top 5!
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5=
Board: Salomon Ultimate Ride
Price: View current price and more info
Flex: Medium-Stiff (7/10)
Rating: 87.9/100
With a name like the Ultimate Ride, you're expecting good things! And the Ultimate Ride doesn't disappoint.
It's the stiffest on this list. Usually I have a limit to how stiff I want a board to be, if I'm still going to be riding freestyle sometimes, all be it aggressively, and this on the end of that limit, but it just absolutely crushes. It's the most stable at speed on this list and the best carver.
But it can still certainly jump - and really stomp a landing. Great for larger jumps.
Not overly buttery, so if that doesn't bother you, and you want a board that charges, but still can nail a jump on and ride switch well, then this might be your board.
Learn more about the Ultimate Ride in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Ultimate Ride
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.0 | 16/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SPEED | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPINS | 3.5 | 7/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
POWDER | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
JIBBING | 2.0 | 2/5 |
PIPE | 4.0 | 4/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 87.9/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #5=
Board: Endeavor Clout
Price: View current price and more info
Flex: Medium (6/10)
Rating: 87.9/100
This is the first year that I rode Endeavor boards - and the Clout really impressed me. It's one of those boards that can get very aggressive, but doesn't tire you out, towards the end of the day - and let's you ride more casually when you feel the need.
It's super versatile and despite it's mostly aggressive nature, it can butter pretty well and is better than most in this category in powder, thanks to an elongated nose and tail.
Learn more about the Clout in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Clout
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.0 | 16/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.5 | 7/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
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 | 87.9/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #4
Board: Lib Tech Hot Knife
Price: View current price and more info
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 88.5/100
At #4 we have the Lib Tech Hot Knife.
The Hot Knife is a mostly camber, mid-flexing machine that is super fun to jump and spin. Great riding in both directions, nice and aggressive and can rail a carve.
Like most here, jibbing and powder not it's forte, but outside of that it's a very versatile option, if you're looking for something aggressive and want to charge freestyle wherever on the mountain.
Learn more about the Hot Knife in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Hot Knife
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
CARVING/TURNS | 4.0 | 12/15 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 3.0 | 6/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
BUTTERING | 3.0 | 3/5 |
POWDER | 2.0 | 2/5 |
JIBBING | 2.5 | 2.5/5 |
PIPE | 5.0 | 5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 88.5/100 |
AGGRESSIVE ALL-MTN-FREESTYLE BOARD #3
Board: YES Ghost
Price: View current price and more info
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, when you're getting up on the tip or tail.
Learn more about the Ghost in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Ghost
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
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 #2
Board: Salomon Assassin Pro
Price: View current price and more info
Flex: Medium-Stiffish (6.5/10)
Rating: 89.7/100
I rode the Assassin Pro in the 2018 model, but I got more time on the 2020 model - and it was time well spent!
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.
Learn more about the Assassin Pro in the Video Below
Score Breakdown for the Assassin Pro
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
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 #1
Board: Niche Crux
Price: View current price and more info
Flex: Medium (5.5/10)
Rating: 92.0/100
And in the #1 spot, we have the Niche Crux!
The Crux is new from Niche for 2020 and as soon as I rode it, 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 | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
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, Lib Tech T Rice Pro 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.
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.