Hello and welcome to my YES Jackpot review.
In this review, I will take a look at the Jackpot as a freestyle snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Jackpot a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and see how it compares with other freestyle snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: YES Jackpot 2020
Price:Â $479 (USD recommended retail)
Style:Â Freestyle
Flex Rating: Medium (6/10 on YES’s flex scale)
Flex Feel on Snow:Â Medium-Soft, bordering on medium (4.5/10)
Rating Score:Â 89.0/100
Compared to other Men’s Freestyle Boards
Out of the 38 men’s freestyle snowboards that I rated:
Overview of the Jackpot’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Jackpot’s specs and available sizes.
Specs
Style: | Freestyle |
Price: | $479 |
Ability Level: |  |
Flex: |  |
Feel: |  |
Turn Initiation: | Medium-Fast |
Edge-hold: |  |
Camber Profile: | Hybrid Camber 2-4-2 (rocker-camber-rocker) |
Shape: | |
Setback Stance: | Centered |
Base: | Sintered |
Weight: | A little heavier than normal |
Sizing
LENGTH (cm) | Waist Width (mm) | Rec Rider Weight (lb) | Rec Rider Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
152 | 250 | 120-160 | 54-73 |
154 | 252 | 130-180 | 59-82 |
156 | 254 | 140-190 | 64-86 |
158 | 256 | 150-200+ | 68-91+ |
Who is the Jackpot Most Suited To?
The Jackpot is perfect for anyone who likes to spend a lot of time in the park but who also likes to leave the park, lay down some carves and pick up some speed.
It’s better for speed and carving than most freestyle boards – but it’s main strengths still lie in freestyle tasks, such as jumps, jibbing, riding switch and for butters.
Not really suitable for a complete beginner board – you can skid turns on it a bit but not the easiest for a beginner just starting out. But for intermediate and up it's a great option.
It’s also great in hard and icy snow conditions, so if you encounter those a lot, then this is a great option.
The Jackpot in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Jackpot is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: YES Jackpot 2020, 156cm (254mm waist width)
Date: March 20, 2019
Conditions: Perfect sunshine (as I'm sure you can see in the pic there!) and perfect visibility.
Crunchy/icy off groomer - and in some spots in the shade on groomer. But softened up a little as I rode - especially parts in the sun. But never got slow/sticky at any point.
Bindings angles: +15/-15
Stance width: 585mm (23″)
Stance Setback: Centered
Width at Inserts: 270mm (10.63")
Rider Height: 6'0"
Rider Weight: 185lbs
Rider Boot Size: US10 Vans Aura
Bindings Used: Burton Malavita M
Board Weight: 3080g (6lbs, 12oz)
Weight per cm: 19.74g/cm
Average Weight per cm: 18.45 grams/cm*
*based on a small sample size of 51 boards that I've weighed in 2019 and 2020 models. The Jackpot heavier than normal on the scales - but it's also a slightly wider board, so that's often the case. However, on snow it didn't feel heavy - it felt about normal - and quite snappy.
Other Testing Notes
I tested the 2019 model of this board - so usually I wouldn't retest the very next year. But if there are significant changes to a board then I do try to retest. The Jackpot went under some significant changes, so I retested the 2020 model. See the end of this section for the specific changes.
Powder
None really to speak of, but I have had past models in the powder. Based on the fact that the Jackpot now has a wider platform, I would say that it would now go subtly better in powder than previous models. Still not going to be amazing in deep powder - not designed for that, but fine for not-so-deep.
Carving & Turning
I've always found the Jackpot to be one of those freestyle/park boards that's just better at carving than most freestyle/park boards. Part of that is that it's just that little bit stiffer - and part of it is a good amount of camber. I found the 2020 model was just a little more snappy - a little more dynamic than previous models.
Speed
Like with carving, the Jackpot performs really well at speed for a predominantly park board.
Uneven Terrain
Really good in bumps and crud. It's nimble enough to weave well and powerful enough to charge through.
Let’s Break up this text with a Video
Jumps
The Jackpot was a good jumper before, but with the upgrades for the 2020 model, it's even better. A great all rounder for all size jumps.
Pop: Great pop - feels dynamic and snappy.
Approach: Nimble enough for trickier approaches and stable enough for approaches needing more speed - can hit anything from small to large jumps well.
Landing: Really solid landing platform - that's where this board has improved jumps-wise in my books - it has that wider platform now.
Side-hits: Great for side-hits. Pop is good and easily accessible and it's nimble enough if the approach isn't straight forward.
Switch
Really really good riding switch.
Spins
Despite being on the heavy side on the scales, the Jackpot didn't feel that on snow - and this was most obvious during spins. It's got great pop, a great landing platform and takes off and lands switch really well.
Jibbing
It's not a jibbing master, but it's above average there. I'm not a strong jibber but I still felt fairly comfortable jibbing on the Jackpot.
Butters
Not as buttery as the likes of the Basic and Typo. But still nice and buttery as YES boards tend to be.
Changes from the 2019 Model
The 2020 model underwent a couple of major changes, namely:
1. It is wider overall. From waist to inserts to tip/tail. E.g the 2019 156 has waist, inserts, tip/tail of 252mm, 264mm, 297mm and the 2020 156 has 254mm, 270mm, 305mm. So whilst the waist width is only 2mm wider, the width at inserts is 6mm wider and the width tip and tail is 8mm wider. Quite significant overall.
2. They adjusted the midbite and sidecut radius. E.g. 2019 156 had a 8.10m sidecut radius vs the 2020 156 with a 7.2m sidecut radius.
Changes from the 2018 Model
The main change for the 2019 model, compared to the 2018 model is that it now has a 2-4-2 (rocker-camber-rocker) set up for its camber profile. Previously it was 4-4-4, So, there is less rocker there now. This gives the board a slightly different, more camber dominant feel – but certainly still notice those rocker sections so certainly nothing like trad camber.
So, overall it has a slightly more aggressive, slightly more all-mountain-freestyle, less jibby feel to it. But still butters just as well.
Changes from the 2017 Model
The 2018 model is virtually identical to the 2017 model, except that the stance width options have been narrowed (and the graphic has changed).
​
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
RATING | Contribution to Final Score | |
|---|---|---|
JUMPS | 4.5 | 18/20 |
JIBBING | 3.5 | 14/20 |
SWITCH | 4.5 | 13.5/15 |
BUTTERING | 4.0 | 8/10 |
SPINS | 4.5 | 9/10 |
UNEVEN TERRAIN | 4.0 | 4/5 |
POWDER | 3.0 | 3/5 |
CARVING/TURNS | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
SPEED | 3.5 | 3.5/5 |
PIPE | 4.5 | 4.5/5 |
TOTAL after normalizing | 89.0/100 |
Overall, the Jackpot is the kind of board that is so good in the park, that it has to be in this category, but is so good over the rest of the mountain too, that it could easily be called an all-mountain-freestyle board.
It feels dynamic, yet stable underfoot and is just super fun for jumps and spins - but can hold a nice carve and isn't afraid of a little speed.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
If you’re interested in learning more about the Jackpot, are ready to buy or want to research current prices and availability, check out the links below.
If you want to see how the Jackpot compares to other men’s freestyle boards or want to check out some other freestyle options, click on the button below.
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Jackpot is capable of.
Hey Nate,
I’m 170lbs and wear size 9 boots. I recently got a great deal I. The Yes. Jackpot, and went with the 154. I’m an intermediate rider looking to practice more freestyle, but probably won’t be spending a whole day in the park. I guess I just want to be able to play around a bit more on slower trails.
I can’t decide on a binding though. I’m stuck between the Union Contact pros, and the Union Strata.
I currently own a 2018 Yes Standard 156 with Union Force binding. I really enjoy it, but it’s a bit challenging for butters. I love riding it fast and carving though.
Thanks!
Hi Dennis
Thanks for your message.
The Jackpot is a bit more buttery than the Standard – and having the shorter size will make it easier, so you should get more out of it in terms of buttering. And yeah overall certainly more freestyle focused.
In terms of bindings, going with either Strata or Contact Pro will also help with buttering, with the mini disc that they have vs the bigger disc on the Force. Between the 2, it’s a tough choice on the Jackpot. Both would certainly work. I would favor the Strata if you were looking to ride it a little quicker and more carving etc, but given that it’s going to be your more playful ride, if you want that slightly more playful, surfier feel from the bindings, then I think the Contact Pro would be good match. The Strata will get more energy out of the board, when you give more, but Contact Pro for that more surfy/playful feel.
Hope that makes sense/helps with your decision
Thinking of getting the 2020 model.
180lbs and have 11.5us boot. Think the 158 will fit my big feet on it?
I enjoyed the 159 greats last year but looking for something with a bit more pop.
Hi Jarod
I rode the 2020 Jackpot season just gone, in the 156. The width at inserts, at reference stance was 270mm (for a 254mm waist width). So, I would say the 158, with a 256mm waist), would be roughly 273mm (taking into account the slightly wider reference stance). So quite wide at the inserts compared to the waist. I would usually say too narrow, based on waist width, but because of that it might be wide enough, depending on binding angles and the brand of boots. With +15/-15 angles (or similar) I would be fairly confident. And with lower profile boots (recent models of Adidas, Vans, Burton & Ride being the most low profile that I’ve ridden), then a little more confident again.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Did you end up getting the Jackpot?
I too rode a 159 Greats last season and am considering the Jackpot. I sold my Greats and want to diversify my quiver with a dedicated park board along more of a freeride board instead of a one-board quiver.
I am 6’4, 190 lbs and wear US11 Vans Infuse boots with 28,8cm feet.
Considering the Jackpot in 158, rebuying the Greats a size smaller in 156 or open to other suggestions.
In the park the focus is on small to medium jumps and spins, but I also want to get more into boxes and rails and want a board with a decent bit of resort capability left for cruising groomers and boosting sidehits. I ride 70 days a season, but not a whole lot of park so far, which I really want to progress in this year.
Will the Jackpot in 158 be a good choice? 80% park/ 20% groomers.
Hi Sascha
Thanks for your message.
Both options (158 Jackpot or 156 Greats) would work well, IMO, for what you’re describing, as a quiver, mostly park, board. I would be leaning towards Jackpot, just because it’s a little more park oriented, particularly if you’re looking for something to progress on. It’s just a little softer flexing and just a little friendlier, if that makes sense. And I like the 158 size more for your specs. If you wanted it even more buttery/playful, you could even go 156. But I think 158 is the best option for your specs. But it would also depend on what you go with for your freeride option. If you were going to stick closer to around 160 for your freeride option, if you have a preference for that kind of size, then the 156 might be the better bet, for a larger contrast. But if you go longer with your freeride option (which I would recommend), then I think 158 is a good bet.
Thanks for the reply.
I’m considering getting a Korua Dart 160 as a pow/carving board. That would leave resort ripping duties to my park board, especially since I ride with friends every now who don’t ride park. Most of them are skiers who bomb black diamonds, so I need to be able to keep up. I’m also gonna do my instructor course this season and will use the freestyle board during the course.
Although those are few days in between, and most of my days (around 70 per season) are spent by myself cruising and progressing my riding.
So the Jackpot seems like a solid fit. I think I would go with the 158 since I like to lay down deep carves every now and it seems like it has enough All-Mountain capabilities for what I’m looking for. I’m still a bit worried about toedrag, although with a width at inserts of 273mm I should be fine theoretically. I ride 12/-12, so my feet would overhang the board by 9mm, and my Boots by 3.9cm. I feel like I would definitely get drag if I laid that out, but a lot of people say it’s fine.
Other boards I’ve come across that have piqued my interest are the Gnu Headspace in 155w or the Bataleon Evil Twin in 156w. I’m not sure if I’d like 3BT, but it seems like a nice option for park progression.
The Gnu seems like a solid choice too.
Any thoughts on those two boards or other suggestions?
Would a quiver of two consisting of a Yes Jackpot in 158 alongside a Korua Dart in 160 be a good quiver for my usage case?
The Korua is definitely not set in stone, but I’ve ridden it and I liked it and haven’t really put that much thought into my pow/freeride board yet – that is a decision that’ll come after my freestyle board.
Hi Sascha
Yeah, I think if you’re still looking to get those all-mountain capabilities, then 158 is probably the best bet. The 156 would offer a bigger contrast to the 160 Dart, but since you’re looking to maintain those all-mountain capabilities, then I think you’re best with the 158.
Width-wise, I think you would be fine. with Vans 11s. And total boot overhang of 3.9cm should be all good (in my experience, but everyone is different). Particularly if you end up with a little more heel overhang vs toe overhang, that would give you a little more leeway if you were concerned.
I don’t test Bataleon Gear currently and haven’t ridden the Headspace, so I can’t give much on those. I would say that the Headspace has more camber overall vs the Jackpot. It’s got GNU’s C3 Camber, which feels almost, but not quite, like full camber (to me anyway). I like most GNU boards that I’ve ridden, so I imagine it’s a nice board, but I couldn’t say based on first hand experience on that one.
Thanks for the input. I think I’m set on the Jackpot in 158 for the freestyle side of things.
Now I just stumbled upon some good deals on YES boards.
Considering the PYL or Hybrid to complement the Jackpot as a quiver of two. I can get the PYL in 160W or the Hybrid in 157/161.
Since I don’t get to ride that much deep fresh pow in the Alps I would prefer the PYL for it’s supposedly better carving and on-piste capabilites.
The issue is that the PYL 160w has a waist width of 26cm. Based on your measurements that would mean 26.7cm at the rear insert. Which would definitely be too narrow for my freeride board, since I would go with a more positive stance (probably -6 on back binding) and carve the board very low on piste.
The Hybrid is 27.7cm at the rear binding according to your measurements, which would probably be safer for carves.
Do you think I could get away with the PYL in 160w? I can’t get the 164w unfortunately. Or is the Hybrid good enough on-piste to take it out for a full day of bombing and carving without an inch of pow in sight?
Thanks
Hi Sasha
Very good questions!
The Hybrid isn’t quite as good on a carve, or at speed vs the PYL, but it’s still decent. The PYL would give you the bigger contrast to the Jackpot in that sense. Though, in saying that the Hybrid is still a very different board to the Jackpot. I would, like you, be leaning towards going PYL. I think the Hybrid/Jackpot is still a good quiver, but I just think the Jackpot/PYL is just that little bit better for your needs.
In terms of fitting on the PYL 160W. I would be comfortable with it with Vans 11s. I rode the 159 Mullair, which has a 256mm back insert width, with US10 Vans (Aura) boots and didn’t have issues. I was a little concerned with that width, but was fine in the end. That’s the narrowest I would probably go is around that 255, 256mm. That’s roughly the equivalent of going 266mm on the back with 11s. So it’s tight. And note that I did ride it with a 15 degree angle on the back foot. If I bought the board I would likely also have a straighter back binding angle, for a more forward stance, but for consistency I always ride the same angles when testing. So yeah, it’s a tough one.
Going Hybrid, if you were to go 161, then you’re looking at something that’s definitely wide enough for sure. And going to be bigger, more carvy, better at speed and more float in powder vs the Jackpot, so I think that definitely works. But it is more powder oriented and less carvy/speed vs the PYL. So it’s a tough call. The size is a safer bet.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate,
I’m looking for a freestyle board for indoor dome riding – spins, small jumps, butters and the occasional bomb down with some carves.
I’m an experienced mountain rider but average on freestyle and switch (can do 180s but not 360s yet)
I’m 80kg with UK7.5 boots (US8.5) and currently ride a Yes Standard 156 (2017 model). I really like the Standard but its a little bit too stiff for playing around indoors – will keep it for the mountains.
I def want a camrock board as like the way they ride. Would the Yes Jackpot suit considering my boot size? (I do like a responsive board) I could size down if needed because of low speeds indoors though.
Other boards I’ve considered are Slash Happy Place, Ride Kink (too soft?), Huck Knife (too catchy?)
Cheers
Hi Baz
Thanks for your message. Apologies for the slow response, have been on vacation with sketchy internet!
The Jackpot is certainly a little softer than the Standard – without being overly soft. A little more playful than standard but not quite to extent of something like the Basic – or the Happy Place.
If you’re looking at the 2020 model, then it’s quite wide vs the previous models. But even with previous models, given that you’ll be using it indoors and predominantly for freestyle, then sizing down is probably a good idea, and will help with butters and spins in particular. With the 2020 model, I would definitely size down – at least to 154 and potentially even to 152. 2019 model, prob 154.
I found the Jackpot (2020 model 156 – this review is yet to be updated for 2020 model, at time of writing) to be quite nimble (size 10 boots, 6’0″, 185lbs) but not quite as nimble as the Basic or Typo – but those are super nimble. I’d say medium-fast in terms of responsiveness vs fast for Basic.
I’d say something like the Happy Place and Basic are that little bit more playful, and a little more nimble too. But the Jackpot is a little dynamic and poppy, and better on a carve/bombing.
I haven’t ridden the Kink.
I think the Huck Knife is probably a little too technical, given that you’re looking to improve freestyle. Fine, if you’re already quite adept at freestyle riding, but personally I’d go with something a little less catchy to get going on.
So, I think the Jackpot would be suitable, but if you were looking for something more easy going/playful, then the Happy Place or Basic are great options. But if you still want to balance that out with a better carver, then Jackpot way to go.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Hi Nate,
Thanks a lot for the reply! I ended up grabbing the 2019 Jackpot 154 in the sales
I compared it with a Huck Knife in my local shop, but that was full camber and I wanted some rocker at the ends for forgiveness.
I’ve ridden it a few times and am really happy with it so far – am already landing some new flatland tricks on it, switch back 180s and front 360s 🙂
It’s not a lot different from my Standard (a good thing), but its a bit more playful. I suspect I will take the Jackpot to the mountains next season, and it might be time for the Standard to be replaced by a directional freeride/powder board!
Cheers, Baz
Hi Baz
Thanks for the update. Awesome that you were able to grab the Jackpot on sale – and that you’ve already had a chance to test it! Sounds like you’re making great progress!
Hi Nate,
Im curious if it’s worth getting Jackpot 156 being 6″, 165lbs. and 11US Salomon (So no reduced footprint I guess)?
Hi Anton
Thanks for your message.
A couple of different comments depending on whether you’re looking at the 2019or previous model – or looking at the new 2020 model, which will be coming out later this year.
2019 model: I think the 156 would work for you length-wise, but might be pushing it being too narrow for US11 Salomons (yeah no reduced footrpint there, most likely – though some of their new 2020 models are low profile, but not boots prior to that). The 156W would be the better option for you, IMO.
2020 model: If you wait for the 2020 model though, it’s wider – the 156 has a 254mm waist and the width is 270mm at the inserts (the 2019 model is 252mm at the waist, and 264mm at the inserts). So, if you’re to go for the 2020 model, then the 156 would be a good width for your boots, IMO.
Hope this helps
Thank you so much!
You’re very welcome. Hope you have an awesome rest of your season!
Nate, I’m 5’6″ 130-135 lbs. Seasoned rider. I’m more into taking freestyle out of the park so more playing around the mountain. You think a 151 will be too big? Looking for all-rounder freestyle board that can carve as well.
Hi PC
Thanks for your message.
From what your describing, and for your specs, I think the 149 would be the better size for you, but 152 isn’t way off. It’s not going to be gigantic for you, but I think the 149 would be a little better. If you’re used to riding longer boards, then you might be fine on the 152, but if you could find the 149, I think that would work better. Can you also let me know your boot size?
Thanks Nate, boot size will be between 6-7. My gut feeling is the 149.
Hi PC
Yeah with that boot size, I would definitely be leaning towards 149 even more so.
Hi Nate,
thank’s for the reviews.
I ‘m thinking about the jackpot or the typo .
I’m snowboarding since 20+ years in the Alps, I’m 35 yo now, but still want to have some fun in the park as well as all over the mountain.
My last board is a 159 true twin camber but it is now 12 years old, and I really want to try something else, something newer, something less catchy.
I’m 6 and 180 lb size 10 Burton( from years ago…i now the footprints are quite reduced now).
I can’t decide between the typo 158/ 156w or the jackpot 156 / 158.
My porpuse is simply having fun around the slopes, buttering, carving, going off piste and enjoy the park…nothing huge, but still able to jump medium Kickers and pressing box and rails.
From what I’ve understood, they both are nice carver, same profile, good pop and good alrounder flex.
Regarding binding, i’m riding old Ride SP, but I want to move to something a bit softer…Union strata is my option n.1.
Thank’s for your advice.
Marco
Hi Marco
Thanks for your message.
Between the Jackpot and Typo, I would say the main things are:
1. The Jackpot is a little wider overall – a little more surface area size for size and slightly more stable landing platform for jumps
2. The Typo has a very subtle setback stance – which helps for powder float, but with Jackpot having a little more surface area, they both end up being about the same in powder (size for size)
3. The Jackpot a little better for jumps and riding switch
4. Overall the Jackpot is more freestyle and the Typo more all-mountain – but the Jackpot is freestyle that’s capable on the mountain, and the Typo is a very freestyle leaning all-mtn, in my opinion
There are a lot of similarities (like same camber profile, same effective edge, same tip and tail lengths, similar flex) too.
Length-wise, I think 158 is your best bet. If you were going to be riding predominantly park, then 156 would be a good bet, but since you’re doing a mixture of both, I think the 158 (for either) would be best.
Width-wise, even with old Burton’s, I think you’d be fine on either with 10s (assuming US10). But the Jackpot would give you a bit more width. I would say the 158 Jackpot is around 266mm at the inserts (estimated based on measuring a different size Jackpot), which should be plenty width-wise. I haven’t measured the Typo at the inserts, but I imagine it would be a little narrower vs the Jackpot as it doesn’t have the mid-bite – but likely at least 263mm at inserts, which should also be fine.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thank’s Nate,
very appreciate.
I think I’ll go for the best offer i’ll find.
What do you think about the Bindings? any suggestion? I ‘d love to try next season strata(with falcor ankle strap) or atlas within Union. Otherwize Burton cartel or Vita…..or again now pilot or flux ds(just wondering for the poor shock absorbion)
Thank’s.
Marco
Hi Marco
For bindings, I would say the Strata (like that they’re getting the Falcor ankle strap for sure!), Cartel and Malavita & DS would all work well. The Atlas might be just a tad stiff for those boards. But not by heaps. Still doable but just a little on the stiffer side. Not sure about Pilot yet, as I haven’t ridden them yet, but they might also be suitable.
Also check out, if you haven’t already:
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
>>Top 5 All Mountain Bindings
Hope this helps
I really like Yes. boards and I the versatility combined with park excellence of this board was exactly what I was looking for. Unfortunately, they only size up to 158. I need at least a 159W. Is the 2019 Yes. Basic similar enough to satisfy my needs? Is there a board around this price point that you know of that will have my size?
Thanks!
Hi Shan
Thanks for your message
The Basic has some similarities but is also quite different in a few ways.
1. They both have a hybrid camber profile but the Basic has a 4-4-4 rocker-camber-rocker – 4mm of rocker towards tip and tail and 4mm of camber between/under the feet. The Jackpot is 2-4-2. So it has less rocker in there.
2. The Jackpot has mid-bite, which essentially cinches the waist in – so that there is a greater difference between the waist and the width at the inserts and the width at tip and tail. Comparing the Jackpot 158 to Basic 158, the Jackpot’s waist is 254mm and the Basic 158s waist is 253mm. Pretty close. But the Jackpot is wider at the inserts and tip and tail (tip and tail on Jackpot 158 is 300mm and on Basic 158 is 287mm). I like the feel of mid-bite personally and enjoy it on all of the YES boards that have it (Jackpot, Greats, Ghost and Standard).
3. The Jackpot (2019 version anyway) is just a touch stiffer, though quite similar in terms of flex. I would say Jackpot 4.5/10 and Basic 4/10 in terms of stiffness.
4. They do have the same effective edge and contact length and tip and tail length (comparing same sizes)
I would say overall that the Jackpot is a little more dynamic than the Basic. But the Basic is certainly a fun board, just not quite as snappy/lively, if that makes sense. I would say the Greats would be a closer comparison, though that has some noticeable differences too. The Jackpot is almost in between the Basic and Greats. But, as well as the differences the Greats is also more expensive.
Sticking with something with a hybrid camber profile, like the Jackpot has, you could look at the Slash Happy Place. Otherwise, if you were happy to go Hybrid Rocker, then the Never Summer Funslinger or Lib Tech Box Knife might be good options. Otherwise the Basic is probably the next closest thing.
Hope this helps and gives you some options
Hi Nate.
I am 27 yo and I am an intermediate rider (following your guide about the ability level). I would like to start to learn some tricks and enter in the park. I would like to buy an all-mountain freestyle board that allows me to go on groomers and carve well but also behave well in the park. I don’t care about powder.
I’m undecided between the yes jackpot 2019 and the salomon assassin 2019. I can buy both for the same price.
Which one you would buy?
They seem pretty close.
I’m 5’93” 190lbs and my boots are 10us(280cm). Which measure do you suggest?
I have union factory 2014 bindings l/xl.
Are they good for these boards?
Thank you very much for your attention.
Hi Carmine
Thanks for your message.
Yeah both are pretty similar, but certainly not exactly the same. The main differences, IMO, are:
1. The Jackpot is a little better for jibbing
2. The Assassin is a little better for jumps
3. The Jackpot is better in hard/icy conditions, though the Assassin not bad there either
4. The Jackpot is a true twin, the 2019 Assassin is a directional twin (a little longer in the nose than in the tail) – the 2018 was a true twin but the 2019 changed a bit
5. The Assassin is a lighter board – the Jackpot isn’t heavy by any means (on the lighter side of normal) but the Assassin is very light.
The Union Factory would work fine with either of these boards, IMO.
Size-wise, I would go 156 for both for you. You could also go 158 for Jackpot and 159 for Assassin, but I think the 156 would be better suited.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thank you Nate for your answer! I’m considering also the yes greats 156 of 2017/18 since I can buy one at the same price of the salomon assassin 2019. Which one would you prefer between the assassin and the greats as an all mountain freestyle board? Does the greats 17/18 edge hold sucks with respect to the assassin? How are their pop compared?
I also go sometimes off-piste but always something easy (close to the groomers) since I’m not interested too much in the Pow.
Thank you very much for your help I promise these are the last questions 🙂
Last thing I’m 5’11” (181cm) not 5’93”. Sorry for my conversion error
Hi Carmine
Thanks for the correction. That makes something closer to 159 more appealing. But something around 156 is still an option too – given that you’re intermediate, wanting something that’s poppy and good for freestyle and not too worried about powder. The longer sizes would give you a bit more in terms of stability at speed, so you’d have to weigh that up, but 156 would certainly work for what you’re describing.
The 2017-18 Greats, doesn’t have the same edge-hold as the 2019 model but it’s still pretty good. I would say similar to the Assassin’s. The 2019 Greats better than the Assassin and 2017-18 Greats, in that respect, IMO. Pop-wise, they would be pretty similar – both have really good pop.
It’s certainly a close call between the 17-18 Greats, and the 2019 Assassin, but I would be leaning towards the 17-18 Greats. Even though I feel the 2019 Greats is an improvement on the 17-18 Greats, the 17-18 Greats was still an awesome deck, IMO.
But neither would be a bad call. Both are really good boards and would be suitable for what you’re describing.
Thank you very much Nate for your help in this choice. You re very kind! Your advices are precious!
I will go for the Yes greats then!
I have the possibility also to buy a greats 2019 for a bit more but in the size 151. I’m thinking that since the increase in width of this year this size could fit my boots size but I’m bit worried about stability on groomers.
What do you think about?
Hi Carmine
I think the 151 would be too small. I would still go 156 for the 2019 model. The 154 at a stretch, but the 151 too small, IMO. I’m similar specs (6’0″, 185lbs, US10 boots) and I like the 156 for the 2019 model.
Thank you again Nate!
I ended up buying the greats 2017/18 156.
You’re advices were so helpful.
Can’t wait to try it on the snow!
You’re very welcome Carmine. Let me know what you think once you’ve had a chance to get it on snow (if you think of it at the time). Hope you have an awesome season!
Sorry If I bother you again. I have noticed some rust stains on the edges of the board. Is it normal? Since it is new and never used and still in its plastic.
Hi Carmine
I wouldn’t say that it’s normal, but it can certainly happen with past season boards that have been sitting on the shelf for a while. Hopefully it’s just surface staining and should come out pretty easily. Hopefully you could be able to find someone to clean it up for free/cheap. Getting a sharpen should hopefully take care of it. I can’t imagine it would be anything major, given that it’s been in the plastic and never used.
Thank you so much! I will go soon to the alps to try it on the snow. Hopefully they will go away by themselves and if not I will bring it to someone. I will let you know about the greats. Hope you have a wonderful season too!
Hey Nate, I’m 5’3″ 150lb, I generally ride 154. I tried the 154 jackpot and loved it. But, should I size down? Thanks
Hi Tony
Yeah I would size down a little for it. But personal preference and what you’re used to do come into it as well. Ordinarily for your specs, for this board, I would say 149 – but since you are used to 154s and since you tried this board in the 154 and know you liked that size, then I think the 152 is probably your best bet.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi there, I’m 165lb us11 … Using a ride reduced footprint boots…What size u think I should get?? The 154 or 156?? I will be the park board for me as I will use my old board for other stuffs…Thanks!
Hi Lawrence
Given that you will just be using it as your park board and that you have reduced footprint boots, I think either will be ok for width – assuming you’re riding with a decent angle on your back foot (e.g. 15 degrees).
In terms of the length to go with, I would probably be leaning towards 154 for your weight, but if you could also let me know your height and the size of your other board, then I can make a more accurate recommendation.
Hope this helps
I’m 5’10, yea, I’m leaning to get a 154 too. Thanks!!
Hi Lawrence
Yeah, you could ride either of those, but I would still lean towards the 154, since it’s going to be your dedicated park board and assuming your other board is longer.
Hi Nate,
Have you try GNU Headspace C3 ?
Which one will you recommend between these two boards for a freestyle beginner?
Thanks.
Hi CW
I haven’t ridden the Headspace since it got it’s C3 camber. It used to be BTX (so basically all-rocker) and now it’s mostly camber.
Generally speaking camber can feel catchy and quite aggressive when there’s little rocker to balance it out. So, based on other C3 models, I’d say that this wouldn’t be the best for a beginner. It sounds like you’re a beginner just in the sense of freestyle, so you can already ride? (let me know if I have that wrong though) – but even so I would say that something more forgiving in terms of the camber profile would be better for leaning freestyle on – even if you can otherwise ride competently. Looks like it’s still got the same flex (which is on the softer side of medium) so in that respect, I think it would be fine but it’s the camber profile that would put me off for a beginner in freestyle.
The YES Jackpot would be a better bet, IMO – still not overly beginner friendly, but relatively beginner friendly. It feels closer to medium flex than soft flex – going with something softer would be an easier learning curve – but it’s not a bad bet, and based on the camber profiles, I’d say a better bet than the Headspace C3.
Size is also important. You’ll want to go for something shorter than you would for all-mountain riding – going shorter will to make either of these boards better for learning freestyle on, compared to if you went with a longer length. If you’d like a length recommendation I’d be happy to provide one if you could let me know your height and weight.
Hope this helps
How stiff is this? compared to say a NS Proto Type 2?
Hi Veil
I’d say it’s just a touch softer than the PT2. I’d put PT2 at about 5/10 and the Jackpot at 4 or perhaps more like 4.5/10.
YES rate it 4/5, which in my head translates to 8/10. But no way it’s that stiff. YESs flex ratings are a bit weird, IMO – but they make awesome boards, so we can forgive them their flex rating system!
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Looking for some help as I can’t decide between this the YES Jackpot or the salomon assassin that you reviewed really well as they are currently on offer for about the same. I am looking for an all-mountain board with most time spent on the piste but going off the natural jumps and quick turns. Been to a few stores and they all say not much to tell between them and wanted your thoughts? I’m 6″2 and about 80/85kg if it helps?
Thanks
Just thought I ought to add,boots are size 11 burton rulers. Not much interest in jibbing but certainly carving and messing around on the way down 🙂
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
I would say that the Assassin is more all-mountain oriented than the Jackpot (particularly the 2019 and upcoming 2020 models – which are a little different to the 2018 and previous models). The Jackpot is a freestyle deck that could easily be categorized as all-mountain-freestyle – so it’s also got some all-mountain feel going to it. But I would say that the Jackpot is on the all-mountain-freestyle end of freestyle, whereas the Assassin (at least the 2019/2020 models) are on the all-mountain end of all-mountain-freestyle – so a little more all-mountain oriented, if that makes sense.
The Assassin (2019/2020 models) is now a directional twin – so it’s got a slightly longer nose than tail.
I just rode the 2020 Assassin, so my review will be changing a little – as the last one was based on the 2018 model.
But for what you’re describing, both boards would do a great job, so it is a very hard choice.
Length-wise, for your specs, your style and this style of board, I would say that something around 158 to 160 would be a good range to look at.
Width-wise, if you were to ride with +15/-15 angles – or at least a reasonable angle on the back foot, and since you have Burton boots, then I think you’d get on the 158 Jackpot fine – especially given that it has mid-bite, making the width at inserts (266mm) a little wider than you would think based on waist width. But if you liked to get really deep carves in, then you might still want to think about going a little wider.
The 158W Assassin is likely around 272mm at the inserts (based on measuring a different size), which is a good width for 11s, IMO, if you’re wanting to ride a straighter back binding angle, and/or wanting to get really deep on your carves. The 159 (likely 264mm at the inserts) would also be doable, depending on binding angles etc.
Hope this gives you more to go off for your decision
Thank you very much, much clearer that the assassin is way more towards my style of riding than the jackpot.
Though will probs now get the 2020 model as off to slopes tomorrow for a week!
You’re very welcome Alex. Hope you have an awesome trip!
Hey Nate! That’s a very very nice review!I ve got last years model and im looking for new bindings! Which one did you use?? I’m between a lot of models and I’m a little bit confused.. I ride the burton missions but I want something softer..(contacts?contacts pro? Ride rodeos?nowbrigade?k2lienfs?
Thanks a lot
Hi Maik
I used my 2016 Flux DSs (which I used on most boards that I demoed last season to get a consistent experience). They’re an option and worked with the Jackpot and would be a little softer than the Missions – but I think the Contact Pros or Lien FS would be your best options – or the Ride Rodeo. They’re all a bit softer and have a good board feel, and have good shock absorption, which I like for riding freestyle.
You can check out this list too (which has those 3 bindings on it):
>>Top 5 All Freestyle Bindings
Hope this helps