Hello and welcome to my YES Pick Your Line Review.
In this review I will take a look at the Pick Your Line 2017 model as a Freeride snowboard.
As per tradition here at SnowboardingProfiles.com I will give the Pick Your Line a score out of 100 (based on several factors) and also see how it compares with other Freeride snowboards.
Overall Rating
Board: YES Pick Your Line
Price: $599 (USD recommended retail)
Style: Freeride
Flex Rating: Stiff (4.5/5 on YES’s flex scale)
Flex Feel: Stiff (8/10)
Rating Score: 91.8/100
Compared to other Men’s Freeride Boards
Out of all the Men’s Freeride snowboards that I rated:
- I looked at 20 different Men’s Freeride boards
- The average price was $599 (USD)
- The average score was 82.1/100
- The highest score was 91.8/100
- The lowest score was 57.1/100
- The Pick Your Line ranked 1st out of 20!
Overview of the Pick Your Line’s Specs
Check out the tables for the Pick Your Line’s specs and available sizes in the charts below.
Specs
| Style | Freeride | Flex | Medium-Stiff (8 out of 10) |
| Ability Level | Advanced to Expert | Feel | Stable |
| Weight | Normal | Turn Initiation | Fast |
| Camber Profile | Hybrid Camber | Shape | Tapered Directional |
| Stance Setback | Setback 25mm | Edge-hold | Icy snow |
| Price | $599 (USD) | Base | Sintered |
Sizing
| Size (Length) | 156 | 159 | 160W | 162 | 165 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waist Width (mm) | 250 | 253 | 260 | 255 | 258 |
| Weight Range (kgs) | 59-77 | 66-84 | 68-86 | 70-88 | 77-95 |
| Weight Range (lbs) | 130-170 | 145-185 | 150-190 | 155-195 | 170-210 |
Who is the Pick Your Line Most Suited to?
This board is for anyone who wants to adventure and explore the backcountry – and rip it up on the groomers when the powder’s not around – but it’s in the powder that this board really comes into its own.
For anyone who needs a board that is fast, stable at speed, a great carver and performs brilliantly in powder – the Pick Your Line is a great choice.
Definitely not for the park and not for the beginner or intermediate rider.
The Pick Your Line in More Detail
O.k. let’s take a more detailed look at what the Pick Your Line is capable of.
Demo Info
Board: YES Pick Your Line 2017, 159cm, 253mm waist width
Date: Tuesday March 30th
Conditions: Groomed on piste – hard packed but slushy especially in the afternoon. Icy patches in spots particularly in the morning. Mostly slushy conditions on groomers and off the trails. Very slow conditions in general (bar the occasional icy spots) – cascade concrete for sure. Which made it a point and shoot day in order to keep up speed. But there was plenty of slush to float over.
Bindings angles: +18/+3
Powder
Had terrific float in the slush. You could really just point and shoot this board and it floated over effortlessly.
And that’s not really a surprise given the boards specs – a hybrid camber profile (great for powder with the rocker sections tip and tail) and a 25mm setback stance.
Carving
The Pick Your Line was a fun, fast, aggressive board to wield. You really feel like you are wielding this thing – and like a large sword it is harder to control until you’ve built up the strength to control it and the technique to control it – but once you do you have a more powerful weapon.
You really feel like you have a powerful weapon under your feet with this deck. Opened out into a carve like the best of them.
In the icy patches I encountered in the shady spots it held an edge really well – better than most boards I’ve had to deal with ice on. Part of that is down to the underbite edge tech that YES now uses on their boards.
In terms of flex, YES say this is a 4.5/5 (which in my mind translates to a 9/10) but I would say it’s more of an 8/10.
The board isn’t technically tapered, even though I’ve said it’s tapered directional. They use gradually tapered sections in the side-cut, instead of just pinching in the tail. This helps to stop that washy feel you can get with a tapered board, which part of the reason why it’s so good on hard and icy snow as well as in powder.
Learn more about the Pick Your Line in the Video Below
Speed
This is a really fast deck. Even though I had very slow cascade concrete conditions on the day it was still fast – and I was very thankful to have a fast deck that day.
It has a sintered base which is nice and quick – so long as you keep it well waxed. The directional shape and stiff flex help to make this deck quick too.
Uneven Terrain
Too stiff to really hug the bumps so you want to just fly over them. You really want powder or groomed hardpack with this board so when you get that you won’t have to worry too much about it.
That said, it didn’t feel too bad in the bumpy stuff.
Jumps
It’s the kind of deck that’s designed to grip and lock into the snow – not leave it. But it actually jumps pretty well and landings felt pretty stable.
Of course this is great to have, not so much for jumps in the park, but for popping over lips and the likes.
Switch
Switch was possible but felt unnatural and weird – not what it’s made for and not something I did a lot on it!
Changes from the 2017 Model
The 2018 model is mildly stiffer than the 2017 model but subtly so – this was already a rather stiff board. The reference stance has also been narrowed – as it has on a lot of YES boards.
Changes from the 2016 Model
The 2016 model changed quite a bit from the 2015 model and the 2017 model has also had some tweaks. The 2015 model was actually quite decent at riding switch and was a little less directional.
But the 2016 changed to be a more pure freeride deck and brought in that Tapered Underbite tech. I personally think it was an improvement. The 2017 hasn’t changed as much as from 2016-17 but the setback has changed from 10mm to 25mm making it just that bit better at floating in powder.
Score Breakdown and Final Verdict
Check out the breakdown of the score in the table below.
| FACTOR | RATING (OUT OF 5) | CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| Carving: | 4.5 | 27/30 |
| Powder: | 5.0 | 20/20 |
| Speed: | 4.5 | 18/20 |
| Uneven Terrain: | 3.5 | 10.5/15 |
| Jumps: | 3.5 | 7/10 |
| Switch: | 2.0 | 2/5 |
| TOTAL after normalizing | 91.8/100 |
The Pick Your Line is a great choice for those that want a board that rips it up when they’re in the powder but also if you want to still be able to have a blast when riding it on the groomers when the powder isn’t around. It’s one of the better free-ride boards I’ve ridden for groomer riding.
Of course freeride boards, in my opinion, should also be good at carving on groomers (or they’d be a powder board in my books) but the PYL just does it that little bit better than others.
More Info, Current Prices and Where to Buy Online
Check out the links below for more info on the Pick Your Line, where to buy or if you are researching prices or available sizes.
- YES Pick Your Line at blue-tomato (Europe)
If your keen to check out some other Freeride options or to see how the Pick Your Line compares to other freeride decks check out the link below.
>>My Top 5 Men’s Freeride Snowboards
Hey Nate,
Appreciate you taking your time to review the PYL. Sounds like an excellent board.
I will be heading to Japan at the end of the year for a boarding trip and was thinking about picking one of these boards up. The question I have is I’m about 5″9 and 75kg / 165lbs and have been told by a few people to either go with the 156 or 159 – which one to go with? What benefits does going with one as opposed to the other?
Also, I noticed that you stated that the PYL wouldn’t really be suitable for an intermediate and I would consider myself in the middle of that skill level. Is there a particular reason why you wouldn’t recommend it for someone like me?
Cheers in advance mate.
Hi Ralph
Thanks for your message. First of all, the reason I say not necessarily the best for an intermediate rider is that it’s quite a stiff aggressive board. Stiffer boards like this are less forgiving of errors and overall more difficult to ride than softer flexing boards. You get benefits out of that extra stiffness of course (better edge-hold, more responsive, more stable at speed etc) but it’s harder to tame it, if that makes sense. Once you can tame it you can really ride it.
Now, that’s not to say that it’s completely off the cards for an intermediate rider but it will be a steeper learning curve moving from something softer and less aggressive to this. Definitely not for a beginner – this would be a runaway train under a beginner’s feet!
The benefits of going for the longer length 159 is that it will be better at floating in powder and it will be faster and more stable at speed.
The benefit of going for the 156 is that it will be easier to ride and more maneuverable. Going for the shorter length would offset some of the difficulty level of this board – smaller boards are typically easier to ride.
I guess you have to weight up first whether or not you want to make that step up and then decide whether you want the speed and powder benefits of the longer length or the easier to ride shorter length.
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate. What do you know about the durability of this board? I heard a couple of people complaining about this
Hi Eze
I can’t comment on the durability. I typically only ride a board for a day or less so I don’t get a chance to test durability unfortunately.
Hi Eze,
I currently have mine in for a warranty replacement as I type this due to the heel side edge delaminating quite bad. This was my second season on the board. This could be a one-off situation though, as other than that the board has been absolutely amazing to ride and I’ll be using my warranty credit to get the exact same board (although the base seems to be on the softer side, it’s not too bad). That being said, although their warranty itself seems to be good, the warranty process has been painfully slow (Initially started the process on Feb 5, 2017). I’ve now been waiting over a month and still have yet to hear back on whether or not it’s going to be covered so I’ve gone all Feb and now half of March without a board to ride……. I’ve been tossed around between trying to start the warranty process myself as I’ve moved from the town I bought my board in, to being told I must go through the shop I bought the board from (they worked on this for me for about 3 weeks), to now being told I have to go back directly through the company to process my claim. I’ve tracked my shipping number and it’s showing my board was delivered back to them on March 10th. It’s now March 16th and I haven’t heard from them, when they assured me it would be handled ASAP.
I concur with everything in this review. I have been riding for over 20 years now and have ridden every major brand board over the years, and this is by far my favorite of them all.
*UPDATE* – Yes. warrantied my board and I now have store credit, which I’m using to purchase the 2017/2018 PYL or possibly the Optimistic. Haven’t decided yet. But back to the original point, although the warranty process took over 1.5 months, the board was covered no questions asked and I’m definitely purchasing another Yes.
Cheers,
Thanks for the update Anom. Good to know that they honor their warranties.
Hey Nate,
I’m a fan of the way you do your reviews, very analytical and well presented. Website is well organized and easy to navigate as well.
I an an experienced rider of 15+ years, I am riding the park less and less but still go through and do the odd handrail and jump. I am more focusing on aggressive big mountain riding, big drops(20ft plus), natural features,tight trees, deep snow etc… I dont cruise switch but I ride out of landings and take offs switch sometimes but then revert back. I am 5’9″ 155lbs size 9.5-10 boot coming from a rome agent 154 which was great for crushing the resort and the odd park lap but left me wanting extra float and stiffness in the bigger faster deeper stuff. the Yes PYL and Burton FA are at the top of my list. Is the Yes PYL 156 going to be fine in tight trees even with the stiff flex? Do you think the flight attendant would be better suited for this? how do these boards handle the end of day bumpy resort snow that’s been shredded all day?
Also I know they are not designed for the park but they should handle a basic board slide and jump, right? any chance of doing some small presses? how do you think the Capita BSOD compares to these two?
Thanks,
Shane
Hi Shane
Thanks for your message.
These boards (PYL/FA/BSOD) are definitely going to crush it for your big mountain riding – that’s what their made for mostly. As an experienced rider you’ll be able to get away with them in the park – but their not going to be ideal for it.
If you’re focus is heavily in favor of big mountain and it’s only very seldom that you’d be jumping/pressing, then these are the kinds of boards that are probably going to be your best bet. But you could also consider something like the Jones Explorer – which is a bit softer flexing and will be a little better for presses/jumps and for taking off/landing switch – but also will give you more in terms of powder than the Agent. The Capita Mercury would be another option for this.
Certainly any of these are going to be an improvement over the Agent in powder for sure.
The 156 PYL probably has a similar effective edge as the 154 Agent – so I think that size will be absolutely fine – just the way it’s designed with the long nose – means that the total length of 156 has a lot of nose in it, that’s not going to be in contact with the snow unless you really need it in deep powder.
So yeah, 156 PYL would be a good fit for you, IMO. You could even go longer if you wanted to – but since you’re wanting something that can also tackle tight trees, I think 156 would work well.
Typically I don’t find freeride boards that great in bumpy resort snow but the 3 that you’ve mentioned aren’t as bad as others – so I think they’d handle this fine. Certainly just as well as the Agent, I would say.
So, I think the decision really comes down to how much you want performance for switch, jumps and jibs (though to be honest I found the PYL and the BSOD fine for jumps for straight air). If you didn’t want to sacrifice too much there, then something like the Explorer or Mercury or even an all-mountain board might be the way to go – but you’d definitely be capable for that kind of thing on the freeride boards, I would say. The other thing is that the Agent isn’t a great jibbing board anyway, so you wouldn’t loose too much there. If you’re fine with jibbing on the Agent, you’d loose a little on the freeride decks but not that much.
Out of the Freeride options, the BSOD is probably the best in terms of switch – and possibly the most versatile. It’s a little softer flexing than most freeride boards too – a bit stiffer than the Agent but not as much as the PYL. Similar flex to the Flight Attendant – maybe even a hair softer.
Sorry for the brain dump! Kind of how my minds works.
In terms of sizing, I would say 156cm for PYL, BSOD and Flight Attendant. 156 for Explorer and a toss up between 155 and 157 for Mercury.
It’s a tough choice because I think any one of these would do the job.
The other thing to consider would be if you encounter a lot of hard/icy snow – if so, then I’d say the PYL and Explorer are your better boards in those harder conditions.
Either way, these boards will definitely give you a significant boost in terms of powder and a definite improvement for riding steeps and for speed. Whatever you go with you’ll loose a little in terms of switch – but if you’re only taking off/landing it shouldn’t matter too much.
Hope this gives you more info for your decision – and wasn’t too all over the place!
Perfect, that’s exactly the info I was looking for. I think I’m going to see which of the 3 I can find for the best deal at the turkey sale this year. I’ll check out the Capita merc as well but I think the big mountain focus is what I’ll be after but nice to know a rogue park lap wont be an issue. I don’t get a lot of ice or hard pack but those days do happen. That underbite technology sounds promising. the Capita kazu kokubo looks pretty interesting too. So many options, hard to pick without a demo! Thanks again for the info, makes these blind decisions a whole lot easier!
Cheers,
Shane
You’re very welcome Shane. Hope you have an awesome season!
Nate – I’m looking at a 2018 pyl – trying to decide if 162 will be too much board. I’m on a 157 t rice pro at the moment and am 5’10” / 165lbs / 10. Would use this for powder / backcountry / trees in Tahoe and Jackson hole.
Thanks!
Hi David
Thanks for your message.
I think you could get on the 162. The PYL has a shorter effective edge compared to its length than a lot of boards because of the amount of rocker in the nose and the length of the nose. The PYL 162 has an effective edge of 1205mm compared with your 157 T Rice Pro’s effective edge of 1210mm – so you’d actually be dropping some effective edge. I’ve always felt that the T Rice Pro rides quite long too.
That said, the 159 is also an option. Especially if you ride a lot in the trees. Personally I like something a little shorter through the trees – but then I like more length for big mountain and deep powder – so it’s often a trade off. If you spend more time in trees than open terrain, then the 159cm might suit you better, if you spend more time in open terrain, then go 162cm.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I’ve been researching a lot the past week and keep coming back to your site, well done!
I’m currently on the market for a new freeride board. I’m an experience rider with 12+ years of snowboarding experience and 20+ years of skiing. My own specs are a weight of 73 kg and a height of 187 cm with boot size 42. The current boards I own are a lib tech skate banana BTX 159 (2015) and a Flow Infinite 159 (2011/2012).
I’m looking for a freeride board to charge the mountain on powder days, but can carve really well on groomer days and hold an edge on hard packed icy stuff. I’m not a fan of riding between the trees, but do love to go offpiste to open terrain to set the first lines and to find some natural jumps.
I’m doubting heavily between the YES pick your line and the Rossignol XV. No matter how much research i do, i get pulled from one board back to the other. The other thing i’m not sure about is what size I should go with. 159 (PYL/XV) or 162 (PYL) or 163 (XV). What are your thoughts on my dillema? Can you tell me which one is your favorite board between the two and what sets them appart?
I hope that you can provide me with some insight to make the best choice.
Keep on riding and writing!
Hi Nate,
I have been researching a lot the past week and keep returning to your site, great job! I tried to post earlier from my tablet but my comment did not show, so this might become a double post if there is some delay on posting.
Currently I’m on the market for a freeride board that charges through the pow, carves like a beast on the groomers and has no trouble to hold an edge on icy or hard packed snow.
I have 12+ years of experience snowboarding and 20+ years with skiing. My own specs are 73 kg of weight and 187 cm of height with boot size 42. I currently own a Lib Tech Skate Banana BTX 159 (2014/2015) and a Flow Infinite 159 (2011/2012). My buddy rides a Salomon burner (162) and we switch boards a lot as well.
I’m doubting heavily between the Yes Pick Your Line and the Rossignol XV, the more I research the more I jump back from one board to the other. Both boards seem to perform similar but use different technologies to reach their performance. I’m used to the magnatraction – as my skate banana has this as well – and I know this will help to keep that edge on icy conditions. I have no experience with the gradual tapered technology of the PYL, but based on what I have read so far this seems to do a tremendous job on hard packed ice as well. Their performance on both powder and carving seem similar as well, although again using some different technologies. Both have their own solutions to keep the board afloat and to charge through the bumpy stuff and seem to perform great at it. Which is your favorite board of the two and what sets them apart?
The next thing that is one my mind is the size, should I stick to 159 size for a freeride board or jump to 162 (PYL) or 163 (XV)? I’m not a fan of riding through the trees, but I do love to go off-piste or to the back country to set the first lines in fresh powder and to find some nice natural jumps. However my weight seems to be nicely in the middle for the 159 spec for both boards, but then again I read often that I should size up for a freeride board. What would you advice?
I hope you can provide some insight that will make this choice a bit easier.
Keep on riding and writing, I love to read this stuff!
Hi Chris
Thanks for your message. I did receive your other message, but I have been busy all weekend in the process of moving apartments (such a pain!) so I haven’t got around to moderating until now.
Personally, I preferred the PYL – but both are great freeride boards and if you are used to magne-traction, then that might lean you slightly towards the Rossi. But I think whichever you pick would suit you well (not helpful I know!).
I’d say that the PYL is a little quicker edge-to-edge and I did like that about it – but if you’re not going into the trees, it’s probably not a big difference. But I did find the PYL a little better for jumps – which again was part of the reason I slightly preferred it and that sound likes it’s a factor for you too.
In terms of sizing, that’s a tough one too. 159cm does seem like the right fit for your specs for both boards. However, it is nice to add length for freeriding – and since you already have 159s, it would give you something different in your quiver. That said, if you went 159, it would certainly be a size you would be used to.
Going 159 would mean quicker turns – due to both the shorter length and narrower width – but one of the big advantages for this is in trees.
Going longer would mean better float in powder and better for carving, especially long arcing carves in open terrain. So for you, I think I’d be leaning towards longer, just based on your riding preference descriptions.
I think you’ve narrowed it down really well and can’t really make a bad choice at this point, but hopefully this gives you more to go off for your decision.
Thanks for taking the time to write back when you are currently moving appartments Nate! It is indeed a pain to move places. Hope you found a great spot!
Your advice to add something new to my quiver is spot on!
I now lean towards the PYL 162, i’ll give it a shot as it is something new both in terms of size and as well regarding the tapered underbite. The quicker edge to edge might help me to get adjusted to the bigger board size. The better performance on the jumps is a nice bonus and pushes me over the edge 😉
Great advice Nate!
You’re very welcome Chris. Hope you love the PYL as much as I did! Have an awesome season
As the previous poster, I’ve been researching a lot the past weeks and found your site a great help! Based on your site and several other review sites, I’ve determined that the Yes PYL seems to be exactly what I’m looking for in a board.
I’ve been looking for good deals, and found a site that sells the 16/17 version of this board for 400 euros. However, they only have the 162 cm version (waist width = 25.5 cm) in stock for that price, and as my height is 198 cm with a boot size of EU 47.5/US 13.0, I was wondering if this would suit me. I’ve looked up some information on minimum waist width, and from what I can find I need a minimum of 26.5 on paper, but I realize that’s based on averages. I do have Burton SLX boots, so they’re quite compact. Do you think I could read this board without any toe drag? And do you think the baord size is OK for me in the first place? Thanks a lot in advance!
Hi Jonne
Unfortunately, I think the 162 would be too narrow for US13s. You would have a high risk of toe drag there, IMO. Even though Burton’s boot do have a really good reduced footprint, they won’t get you as narrow as 255mm. You could possibly getaway with as low as 260mm but maybe 262mm as a safer bet – but 255mm would be very risky.
In terms of length, I think the 162 is potentially too short for you anyway, just based on your height – but I would need to know your weight as well to make a more accurate size recommendation.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
like the previous poster, I’ve been doing a lot of research over the past week and have found your site a great help! Based on your site and on a number of other review sites, I’ve concluded that the Yes PYL is exactly the sort of board I’m looking for.
I’ve been looking at a good deal online, and found a shop that sells the 16/17 version of the board for 400 euros. However, they only have the 162 cm (waist width 25,5 cm) for this price. I’m not sure if this size would be appropriate for me, as my height and weight are 198 cm and 83 kg’s respectively, with boot size EU 47.5/US 13.0. I do have Burton SLX boots, so they are quite compact. I’ve been researching the relation of waist width vs boot size online, and found that for my height, I should have a waist width of 26,5 cm or higher. However, this is calculated based on an average board size and average boot profile.
Do you think I could ride this board without toe drag? And do you think the size fits my specs in the first place?
Thanks in advance!
Hi Jonne
Didn’t see this message when I replied to your other post – thanks for including your weight.
I think you would be better off with a length of around 165cm. So, like I said in my other reply, I don’t think this is quite the right size for you. And the width is just too risky IMO, unfortunately.
Thanks for your reply! I’m glad I asked you, instead of giving in to the impulse of just buying it. I also found a 165 cm version of the PYL for a decent price, but that only has a waist width of 25.8 cm so the difference is minimal. From what I can find online, the only version of the PYL that has a width of 26 is the 160W, but that would be too short. Does this mean this board just isn’t right for me? And if so: which board would you recommend that is the most similar to the PYL, that does fit my specs? I’m looking for a board that has great float in powder when I get lucky, but is also able to carve well and hold its edge in the often hard snow/icy conditions in the French and Austrian Alps.
Sorry about the double post by the way, I didn’t see my question appear on the site after I posted it, so I thought that something had gone wrong. After I posted the second, I realized it’s supposed to work like that haha.
You’re very welcome Jonne.
All good, I often get double comments for that reason – no worries at all.
Yeah unfortunately there isn’t really a suitable size for you for the PYL, IMO.
I think that the Rossi XV would be a great option for you in terms of being just as good in hard/icy conditions as the PYL and being great in powder, for carving and for speed – and comes in a 164W (264mm) which I think would be a great size for you as well. With Burton boots, I think this width will be wide enough and is a good length. That’s what I would go with for you.
But if you want another option you could also check out the Jones Flagship 165W (266mm waist). Still quite good in hard/icy conditions but just not quite as good as the PYL and XV.
Of course, there are other options, but these are what I recommend the most – I think that Rossi XV 164W is probably the best option for you.
Hope this helps
It definitely helps, thanks again!
The Rossi Magtek XV is what I figured would be the best alternative as well, so I’m glad to see you confirm it. However, I cannot find a good deal on that board anywhere, so I’d have to shell out the full 600 euros for it. Although I get that a sweet deal shouldn’t be a reason to buy a board, that was another reason I was so set on the PYL.
Final question: I just measured my current 163 cm board (don’t know why I hadn’t done that before) and noted its waist width is 25,4 cm, and I never experienced any toe drag with it. I always had my bindings set in a duck stance though (to like +15 and -15), which I don’t intend to do with the new freeride board. Do you think that is the only reason I was doing fine with my old board, or does this mean I could be OK with the PYL 165? If so, I might still go for the PYL. If not, I’ll either suck it up and pay the full 600, or wait until after the season ends to find a good deal.
Hi Jonne
Certainly a duck stance will help with width. If you have one of your bindings on a smaller angle, that will add to the overhang. Not necessarily going to be a deal breaker though – but it will increase the likelihood of drag.
Just to make sure, how did you measure the waist width? The waist width should be measured at the narrowest point of the board and it should be measured on the base of the board. If you measured it on the top sheet, it’s going to give you a smaller reading, than what the actual waist width measurement of that board is. If you have measured on the base, then I am very surprised you haven’t haven’t had any issues with US13s on a 254mm waist width.
But if that is the case, so long as you don’t have your back foot on too straight an angle, then maybe you could get away with the 165 PYL.
What is your current board?
Hi Nate,
I measured it again on the base (I did measure the top the first time), but it’s about the same width. It’s a K2 Lifelike 161 from 2012.
However, after posting my last question, I actually found a Rossi Magtek XV 164W 2017 for 445 euros on some Italian site that didn’t pop up on my previous Google searches, which I bought! So I don’t have to take the gamble with the PYL or wait for next season to have a proper board after all! 🙂
Thanks a lot for all your advice! If I hadn’t put my question here, I’d likely have bought the PYL 162 and regretted it later.
Hi Jonne
Awesome that you found a deal on the XV!
Weird that the measurement is the same at the base – it should always be a larger number because of the angle on the sidewalls. But I did look up the 161 Lifelike from 2012 and it is supposed to have a 252mm waist width!
Anyway that doesn’t matter now that you’ve found your board. Hope you have enjoy your new XV and have an awesome season on it!
Hi Nate!
First time poster on your site, really appreciate the info you put out here for everyone.
Me: 6’3 190 lbs (fully suited) intermediate-advanced resort free rider. I’ve been snowboarding 5-10 times per year since I was 12 (16 years, yikes), a few years more when I was living closer to the mountain. I’m in Vancouver so hit Whistler an awful lot as well as some cascade range mountains in Washington State and BC. I mostly live for the heavy snowfall days days where I’ll take off work and run up for first tracks on the bowl and keep going all day. If it’s not a powder day I’m usually not making a day trip but if it’s a planned weekend I’ll be cruising down the groomers as fast as I can first thing. Have dabbled in a little cat skiing and one backcountry trip, would be interested in doing a little more of that but not committed enough to get a split board.
I think you have me sold on the Yes pick your line, was thinking Burton Flight attendant and Jones Flagship from the store and my previous research, but I see I can grab a 165 online. I have Salomon Malamutes in size 11 US so just wanted to make sure you thought I’d be ok with that (they are out of the 160W and I think that would be too short anyways) at 258mm width. If you think I’m better off with the Burton Flight attendant, the Jones or another one I’m open to suggestions.
Also, any recommendations on bindings to go with the Salomon Malamutes and the board you’ve suggested?
Thanks! Appreciate your help.
Devon
Hi Devon
Thanks for your message. Yeah, based on your specs and how you like to ride, then something around 163 to 165 would be a good length and something freeride definitely sounds like your style. For the PYL going a little longer is a good idea.
In terms of width, the 258mm on the PYL could be ok for US11s, depending on your binding angles. If you tend to ride in more of a duck stance with your back foot on a reasonable angle – like -12 or -15, then I’d say it would be fine (even on Salomon boots that don’t tend to have a lot of reduced footprint). However, if your back foot tends to be straighter, then I would say that you’d want to go a little bit wider.
E.g. if you have something like a 3 degree angle or straight back foot, then I’d say try to go wider, like 262mm+
If so, then something like the Flight Attendant 162W – it’s little shorter than the 165 PYL – but it also has a greater effective edge to length ratio – and also that extra width will not only help to accomodate a straighter back foot, but it also adds surface area for float in powder – so you can afford to go a little shorter in that sense too.
For the Flagship, I’d say 162W too – if you really wanted to stick with 165 though, you could go 165W in the Flagship – but I think the 162W would probably be the best option, though both would work.
So yeah, I’d say a more angled back foot – then PYL 165 otherwise either FA 162W or Flagship 162W.
In terms of bindings, I’d say that given the stiffness of your boots and those boards (though FA a little softer), and given your preferred style, then something stiff and responsive would work well.
If you end up going with the PYL or Flagship, then something from the following list would work well.
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
And if you go FA, then something from the list above will work but you could also look at this list too:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
Hope this helps with your decision
Hi Nate,
Thanks for getting back to me so quick, really appreciate it.
I’m thinking of trying a bit of a forward stance for the first time (+18 +3) so was worried about the overhang, I decided to go with the 162W FA with the Genesis X EST Bindings after some careful consideration. Would have liked to try the PYL, just didn’t feel comfortable with the width.
Thanks again for the help, it really assisted me making a decision!
Devon
You’re very welcome Devon. Hope you have an awesome season and enjoy your new gear! Sounds like a great setup to me.
Hey Nate!
First of all, really appreciate the effort you put into this and taking time to answer all our requests!
I’m going to Japan next January for bit more than 2 weeks and looking for a fitting free ride board.
Other than that I ride 20-30 days in Austria.
Current boards are a 2012 Skate Banana in 153 and a 2017 Rome Agent Rocker in 157.
I’m 178cm/75kg/Us10
Now the two boards I’ve looked at are the Pyl and the Jones Flagship.
I need something that works for my Japan trip and can go fast on groomers in Austria.
What sizes would you recommend?
For the Flagship I’d probably go for 161. With the Pyl I’m very unsure between 159 and 162.
I’ve read your comments for the others with the 159 being more playful and 162 more stable, but do you think the 162 could be too big for me since I’m used to shorter and softer boards?
Second question would be concerning bindings.
Currently on a Flow Fuse Hybrid. I’m happy but not overwhelmed with these. Have old 2013 Union Force on my Banana as well. Would they fit the Pyl or Flagship or do I need to upgrade?
I’d love something which I could use for the Rome Agent as well.
Thinking about Burton Genesis, Genesis X (Maybe too stiff?) or Union Atlas/ Ultra Or Ride Capo (probably cheapest).
Thanks again for your help and effort!
Looking forward to hearing from you
Tobi
Hi Tobi
Thanks for your message.
In terms of sizing for the Pick Your Line, this board is something you can go a little longer with. It has a smaller effective edge to length ratio – so it doesn’t feel like you’re riding as long as you are (there’s a big old nose on it that only really comes into play in powder). So for that I would go longer than I would in the Flaghip. So, if you’re willing to go 161 in Flagship, then yeah the 162 would be fine for the PYL.
I almost feel like the 161 Flagship is a little long – the 158 though is perhaps a little short given that you already have a 157 all-mtn-freestyle deck and you want this one for powder. If there was a 160 or 159, then I’d say that for the Flagship.
But I think the 162 Pick Your Line would be a good size for you. You’ll be going up 5cm on your Agent Rocker but I think you want feel that extra 5cm as a PYL size to size would feel a little shorter than the Agent Rocker, if that makes sense. So, if you had an Agent Rocker in a 162, it would feel longer than the PYL in the 162. So, even though you will be going longer, it won’t feel as long as adding 5cm (IMO). And since you want a bit longer anyway, for the style of board, then I think that would be the way to go.
Finally, I would put you at around a 159cm for all-mountain size – for freeride I would add a couple of cms to that – which is around that size for the 162 PYL.
In terms of bindings, I think the Genesis X would work well – the Genesis wouldn’t quite be stiff/responsive enough for either the PYL or Flagship. The Force would be a slightly better bet than the Genesis. The Atlas would be a good choice, as would the Ride Capo. But for more details on those you can check out my reviews, if you’d like.
>>Ride Capo Review
>>Union Atlas Review
>>Union Force Review
I haven’t yet published my review for the Genesis X
And also check out the following, these are a good fit for that board, IMO (note that the all-mountain-freeride post below hasn’t yet been updated for 2018 but the freeride one has).
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
And one final thing! If you could let me know your boot size, then I can just make sure we’re looking at something with the right width too.
Hope this helps
I think I can add my 2 cents for this as I have very similar stats (5’11, 170lbs dry and probably 180-185 with gear, size 10US boots).
For the last 2 years I rode the 159PYL with Genesis X bindings and I can say that the two are about as good of a match as you can get. I originally had Malavitas but I found them too soft for the board and my riding style. To be fair I haven’t tried any other brand of bindings on this board though.
My 159 PYL delaminated, which was warrantied (I wrote about it in one of the earlier comments here) and I was given a store credit for any board I wanted. I have done countless hours of research and demoing boards last year but keep coming back to the PYL because it’s hands down the best board I have ever ridden.
I just picked up my new PYL but decided to go with the 162 this time as I’m looking for a bit more float and stability at speed. The 159 didn’t necessarily do either of these bad but I feel the 162 will be ideal. Especially once I add on my gear and pack weight (avy gear, food, layers etc.). I do tend to ride a lot of tight trees but I don’t think it will be an issue as the 159 was super nimble so even if the 162 isn’t as nimble it should be sufficient (fingers crossed).
Long story short, I don’t think you can go wrong with the Genesis X. As for size, I haven’t actually ridden the 162 yet but I would lean towards that. That being said I think the 159 would be great to if you want something a bit quicker edge-to-edge and nimble.
Thanks Dexter! Great to hear someone elses take on this.
Thanks for your comment Dexter!
It will probably depend on what’s on sale the next few weeks but I’m really looking forward to my new set up!
Enjoy your time on the new deck!
( my shoe size is Us10 but I’m currently on US 9,5 Ride Trident Boots, so I think width shouldn’t be an issue!)
Thanks for your help, now we just hope for good deals and snow!
Tobi
Hey!
I got the 162 PYL with Burton Genesis X in the end.
Can’t wait to try then out in a few weeks !
Will let you know if I’m happy with the setup!
Hi Tobias
Thanks for the update. Sounds like a mean setup to me! Look forward to hearing what you think once you’ve had a chance to test them on snow.
HI Nate,
it is a pleasure to read through your comments and advises and so i would love to address a question to you as well.
I have already decided to go with a PYL 2018 but i could not decide wether to go with 162 or with 165cm.
My current board is a burton custom x 164 and besides powder, i love to charge and carve on icy pists.
I am used to longer boards and really enjoy the high speed carving.
I am 176cm with around 72kg and shoe size 10UK or 10.5US.
You mentioned, that the PYL can be a bit longer due to the shorter effective edge.
Would you recomment the 162 or 165 in this case?
I really apreciate your opinion her,
Rob
Hi Robert
Usually I wouldn’t recommend that long for your specs – but since you are used to and like longer boards, then I think the 165cm is probably the better bet. If you like the Custom X in the 164, then the 165 is the closest in terms of effective edge – the PYL is going to give you more float in powder though – that will be the biggest plus over the Custom X. Even the 165 PYL is going to drop a little in terms of effective edge (but not too much). The 162 would drop quite a bit in comparison. Ordinarily I would say 162 (or even 159) for your specs but given your preference for longer and your current board, you will likely prefer the 165cm.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for your website, really useful info, specially for those of us ‘on the hunt’!
PYL sizing… I am undecided on a 160W or 162, at one point I even considered a 159 but I don’t think that would work. I’m 5’10, 167lbs.. Boot size US10. Binding angles for freeride front 19/20, back -5/-6.
I am concerned about heel and toe drag on the 25.5 waist of the 162, that’s why I was considering a 160W.. Some ppl say the 25.5 will be ok, others not so. What do you think?
Regards
Alec
Hi Alec
Thanks for your message.
Ordinarily, in terms of length, I’d say 159 would be your best bet. But you can certainly go longer on this board – especially for the style of riding it’s designed for – and with it’s long nose, the effective edge is shorter than some boards at the same length. That said, the 159 would still work for you with this board – but the 162 is an option as well.
In terms of width, I don’t see any issues with the width on the 162. I ride US10 boots and I’ve never had any issues at a 255mm waist – even with a really straight back binding angle. In fact I rode the 159 PYL with +18/+3 angles and I didn’t run into any drag issues. Now, I don’t get down and do any Euro carves, but I still carved this board pretty hard and didn’t get any drag.
That said, the 160W isn’t fiendishly wide either. So that’s still an option (I know I haven’t exactly narrowed it down for you so far!). I think you’d actually be ok on all 3 of those sizes. If you really like to get right up on those edges, e.g. if you like to euro carve, that kind of thing, then go for the 160W to be safe – but I think you would still be fine on the 162.
I’d say the pros and cons for each.
~ The 159 would be less stable at speed and be more work in deep powder – but would still be absolutely fine in powder – this board is made for it and I loved the 159 in powder. This would be the most agile option for, being narrower and shorter. The best option for the trees too, IMO.
~ The 160W and 162 are probably going to have a fairly similar surface area. You’ve got a couple of extra cms on the 162 but it’s narrower. So they’ll float equally well or close to, I would say. When on an edge the 162 will have a bit more effective edge so maybe a little more stable at speed.
~ The 160W and 162 will likely be fairly close in terms of edge-to-edge speed. The 160W being wider would be slower than the 159, but the 162, though longer, is narrower than the 160W so those things would probably cancel each other out, at least somewhat.
Personally, I wouldn’t go wide, but I just don’t like the feel of anything over like 258mm at the waist and only that wide when I’m using straighter binding angles, unless I’m down-sizing the length. I just find it harder work and slower edge-to-edge. But some people prefer wider – and some people are more into things like Euro Carving than I am.
So yeah, I’d say you’d be fine on the 162 (255mm waist) but if you were really worried the 160W is an option, especially if you like to get really low on your carves.
Hope this helps with your decision
Thanks for your comments Nate. My intention is to Euro carve more with this board that was why I was concerned with drag on the 162, but my boots have a short footprint, I trust I can get away with it. Also displacing the stance a bit further back will help with back foot drag if needed.
This is going to be a quiver board and I have other shorter boards for when powder and off-piste is not an option, that is also a reason to rule out the 159.
I think it will be a 162, I can get a good deal on last year’s model and the difference is not that huge? Just a little stiffer the new model but profile, design etc remain the same. I think it’s probably worth it for a 220 USD save.
Thanks again and Happy Christmas & New Year!
Hi Alec
Yeah with that short footprint that’ll give you more leeway there too – even for euro carving.
Also agree that going 162 if a quiver board, is a good option.
The 2018 isn’t that different, so I think saving 220 is definitely the way to go!
Happy Christmas and New Year to you too!
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the awesome site and thorough reviews of gear!
I’m currently looking for a new board and have the the YES PYL along with the NS Chairman, Jones Flagship, as well as the NS West, and YES Standard on my radar and hoping you can give your thoughts.
Me: 5’11″/170lb (dry)/US11 boot (Ride Insano)
I am coming from an NS Premier F1 161, ride Colorado mountains, and like to charge hard and fast whether on groomers or (preferably) in the trees and off-piste pow. I don’t ever hit the park, but like to hit natural jumps and rollers.
The YES was looking to be top of my list, but I can only get it in 159 (253 under foot) and *maybe* 162 (255 underfoot) and am worried about toe drag (I don’t really Euro carve) as YES size chart says size 7-9 for both those sizes. Am I being too cautious on the waist sizing? I believe the Ride boots have are generally on the short side for their size. The Jones sizing says 9.5-11 for their 161, but that is only 252 waist, so I’m kind of confused there. The other boards I can get in just about any size they make.
Assuming waist size becomes a non-issue, which board do you like best for me? I’m leaning more toward the freeride boards, but the couple all-mountains are also tempting.
Thanks for any input and keep up the great work!
Hi Alex
Thanks for your message.
In terms of length, I think you could ride a 159 – but for a freeride board you probably want to go a little longer an since you’re used to a 161, it’s probably not ideal but still doable. In terms of the width, the 253mm waist on the 159 would be risking too narrow, IMO. With low profile boots (which you have) and binding angles like +15/-15 I think you’d probably get away with it, particularly if you aren’t doing any euro carving. However, the 162 would give you more leeway there. You’d still want to have reasonable binding angles there – although if you’ve never had any issues on your Premier F1, then I think you’d be fine given the 256mm waist of the Premier 161 (based on 2014 model) with 300mm tip and tail. The 162 PYL has a 255mm waist and 301mm tail an 306mm tip.
You’re other option, if you have it available, is the 160W. If you have binding angles with a straighter back foot – e.g. +18/-3 or something like that, then the 160W would be a better bet – and given the extra width, it would feel more like a 162 anyway – particularly for float in powder.
In terms of what YES says and what Jones say, I would disagree with both! YES are on a mission to get people on wider boards and really encourage it. Jones almost the other way around. But for the Flagship, I would say that the 161 would be too narrow for you (252mm waist, 291mm tail, 292mm tip). Either the 159W or the 162W would be the better choices if you went Flagship.
The Chairman is going to be the most similar to the Premier F1, in that it has rocker between the feet and camber tip and tail, and of course because it’s Never Summer. However, the Chairman now has (starting with the 2018 model) Never Summer’s Ripsaw Rocker camber profile, which has more camber and more aggressive camber and less rocker. The Premier (and the 2017 and previous chairman’s) had their Original Rocker camber, which is a more playful, gentle camber profile. I think, by what you’re describing, that you would appreciate the extra stability, carving ability and pop that you would get from the Ripsaw Rocker compared to the Original Rocker Camber.
Sizing for the Chaiman X, I’d say either the 160 or 161X. The 160 has a 256mm waist, the same as the 161 Preimier you’re on now. However, the tail is just 290mm and the tip 295mm – so it’s risking being narrower at the inserts (if only snowboard companies would just publish width at the inserts!). The 161X is 266mm at the waist – so getting on the wide side for 11s, IMO, but it’s also just 300mm tail and 305mm tip, which is on the narrow side for a 266mm waist.
YES Standard you would go 159W – and even though that’s shorter than what we’re looking at for others, it’s a bigger board than it looks. It’s 263mm at the waist but it’s cinched in at the waist (what YES call mid-bite) so it’s quite wide overall (310.5mm tip and tail). So that extra width compensates for the shorter length. So, I think that size would be fine for you if you went down that path.
For the West, I’d say 162. It’s the same waist (256mm) and tip and tail (300mm) as the Premier, so I think you’d be fine on it width-wise – and that’s a good length I’d say.
If you’re looking for that board to charge hard and fast on, then I’d say the PYL, Chairman or Flagship are the way to go. The Standard and West are also pretty good at speed, so they would do the job for you for sure – but not quite to the same level for speed/carving/powder. They’re softer flexing too, so you’d have to get used to that – whereas the Flaghsip, Chairman are all similar in flex the Premier (on paper – I haven’t ridden the Premier).
The Standard and West are going to be better for jumps, IMO – even natural hits an rollers – but the other boards will certainly do the job there and if speed/powder/carving are more important, then I’d stick to one of those. But if you think you’d like something that’s a bit softer flexing, a little more maneuverable at slower speeds and a little better for jumps, riding switch etc, then you could go for something like the Standard or West.
Hope this helps with your decision
Nate,
Thanks for all of the feedback on this board. I’ll try keep this simple as it touches on much of what has been asked, but a little different.
My details: 6’2″ / 180 / 11.5 Ride Insano Boot
Need: New board and bindings
Options: Jones Flagship 161 or 162w, or PYL 159 or 160w.
Riding Style: Intermediate+, riding for 20 years, ride 5-10 times a year mostly Colorado mountains or Mammoth in CA, I no longer like to go in park, just floaty airs and hits etc.. I like to free ride and love the trees, powder is great when I get it, love to go real fast on groomers and carve and surf up the mountain.
Questions: My main concern is toe/heal drag here, and size/width of board. Both appear to be great boards and excellent choices for me. I think I probably need to go with a wider board than the 252mm Wide Flagship 161 which is what i was initially looking at until I saw your review of this board. I see that the PYL 159 is 255mm, is that an option or still not wide enough (i like the sounds of a little bit shorter of board for trees and bumps etc.)? I also like the idea of the PYL 160w as it is wider but not as wide as the Flagship 162w (do you think that would be wide enough?).
I will also need a new pair of bindings, any advice there? Ideally not breaking the bank but a good solid binding that will last and go well with the Insano boots and the board and possible help bridge the size of board and toe/heel drag.
Thanks!
Greg
Hi Greg
Thanks for your message.
In terms of width, I think the 160W PYL sounds like it will be the best option. With Ride boots (low profile) you give yourself a bit more leeway, but I still think the 253mm waist on the 159 will be just a little narrow – especially if your back binding is any straighter than like 15 degrees. And yeah the 161 Flagship also too narrow in my opinion – and narrower at tip and tail too. The 162W Flagship would also be a good width – it’s wider at the waist (263mm) than the PYL 160W (260mm) but is narrower tip and tail. But if you’re looking to go a little shorter, then the 160W might be a better fit. I would put you on around a 161, 162, but given that you’re going wide and are looking to go a little shorter, I think the 160 would suit you well.
If you have something like +15/-15 binding angles, then you might just squeeze on the 159 PYL, but I think it would be a risk and the 160W is the better option, particularly if you have a straighter back foot than that. It doesn’t sound like you have it as an option, but the 159W Flagship would also be a good size for you, IMO.
Hope this helps
Hello Nate! After a lot of research on my next board, I came across your site. Great work!
My question is more geared towards rider level and a board to match.
I would consider myself an intermediate rider. I’m all about the carve. I never ride switch, I stay away from the park and trees, and I’m happiest bombing. With this is mind, I started looking at the directional freeride boards, only to find they are all “expert to elite” recommended. Everything from the Jones Flagship, Burton Flight Attendant, to the Nidecker Concept and the Yes Pick Your Line.
I recently discovered the Jones Explorer, which seems like it’s gotten rave reviews from everyone. I’ve been hesitant to pull the trigger though because I’m torn: Do I go with a board that will force my skills to progress and therefore a better investment, (I’d love a Yes PYL) or go with a safe bet like a Jones Explorer that has been labeled a little more “playful” and “entry level”?
I just got back from Tahoe and was on a rental Salomon 156 hybrid camber which I was surprised was such a fun ride. I’m 5’11, 160 LBS, and rocking the size 10 Adidas Acerra ADV on Burton Genesis X bindings. Thanks in advance for your help!
-John
Hi John
Thanks for your message.
It’s a tough call when you’re at that intermediate level and you’re likely looking for a board that you don’t want to upgrade from. And I can see your motivation to look to a more advanced board given the style you like to ride.
However, the problem with going too big a step up, is that your technique and progression can suffer, if the board is too far beyond where you’re at currently. And sometimes confidence can take a hit too. So, whilst going for something a little bit above your current level can help to push along your progress, going too far above doesn’t work that well, IMO/experience. Just like riding with someone who is a little better than you is great, and can help you to improve faster, but if you ride with someone who’s like streets ahead and you try to keep up with them, you’re technique goes to crap or you have a big spill and loose confidence or the likes.
I think the PYL would be a good option for you’re style, but at an intermediate level, I think that it’s going to feel on the stiff side, and may not be as forgiving as you’ll need it to be at this stage.
The Explorer isn’t something I would call an entry level board either. It’s definitely not something I would recommend to a beginner. And, from the feel I got from it, it felt a little stiffer than the 6/10 it gets – not by much but I’d say more like 6.5/10. It’s something I would recommend for solid intermediate riders and above, so I think that would be a great choice for you – and would fit your style well. The Capita Mercury would be another board that I think would also be a great option.
Length-wise, I’d say something around 157, 158 would be a good size to go with for you.
So for the Explorer and Mercury I would say:
~Explorer: 156 or 159 – the 156 is going to be more nimble and quicker edge-to-edge and a bit more of a forgiving rider – and will feel just a little softer flexing. The 159 will be better for stability at speed and in powder (if you’re in there) – the 159 will be slightly more challenging but is also something that would be a great size for you, even at an advanced level. Usually I would say go 156 as an intermediate rider over the 159, but considering the style you like to ride, I’d be leaning more 159.
~Mercury: 157 – again you could think about going to the 159 but in this case, I think the 157 would be the better option. Part of the reason for that is that the Mercury is a wider board (on the 157 there’s a 257mm waist with 301mm tip and tail vs the Explorer 159 with a 254mm waist and 298mm tip and tail).
If you were to go PYL, then the 156 is probably the best bet for now (as going shorter would help it to be a bit more forgiving/easier to ride) but at a more advanced level, I think the 159 would be the better option.
Hope this helps and gives you more to go off for your decision
Hi Nate, my height is 176 cm and I weigh 86 kg. I select a universal board for weight and height for carving and freeriding. I rode the flagship 161 carbon and 164 standard. I like more of this line 164. Tell me what size to choose 165? And if you compare two boards flagship i yes. Which one did you like best?
Hi Vitaliy
Thanks for your message.
Ordinarily I would say something around 159, 160 for you for an all-mountain board, but for freeride/carving, you can certainly go a little longer – so 162, 163 would be appropriate. But personal preference comes into it too, so if you feel like you would prefer to go more like 164, 165, then that’s certainly not off the cards.
There’s just something about the YES Pick Your Line that works really well for me – the Flagship is a great board, but, for me, I liked the PYL better.
In terms of size, I would usually say go 162 for PYL, especially if you are going to have to ride it slow at any point, but since it sounds like you had a good time on the 164 Flagship over the 161, then the 165 might be the better option for you. And the 165 certainly is within what you can ride with your specs. I personally wouldn’t go that long, but I have a preference for slightly shorter boards. For the Flagship, the 164 is probably your best bet, given that you liked it more than the 161 (allbeit that it wasn’t a direct comparison, because the 161 was the Carbon Flagship).
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
I love this site and your reviews. Please keep it up!
I come from 20+ years of skiing (a previous life) and now 11+ years snowboarding, approx. 25+ days every year – always in the French, Italian or Austrian alps. Looking at your blog about how to rate my skill level, https://snowboardingprofiles.com/what-are-the-snowboarding-skill-levels-discover-yours, I think I can (modestly) place myself at the low end of the ADVANCED level. I’m completely relaxed on blues, reds and blacks -and maintain solid technique when carving and bombing on these groomers. However, on some of the very steepest patches of challenging black groomers, or when meeting large moguls at the end of a sunny day, I will slow up and skid some of the turns to get through it. Recently I’ve been pushing myself to keep a smooth carve or maybe straight-line it even on these steepest and most moguly stretches.
Over the past 5 or so years, I’ve also been throwing myself onto off-piste and powder whenever possible – sometimes a full day with a guide. I love these moments. I’m confident (and have great fun) on most deep-snow runs. But I do feel that when going down the steeper places in deep/new snow, I will have a harder time turning with a good posture and riding down smoothly – which I admit is largely is due to lack of skill but maybe also somewhat due to the full-length of camber shape on my Burton Custom – which I understand is not an optional board for riding on powder – and is perhaps hampering me from improving my deep snow/powder skills on the more challenging steep places?
I have been riding my trustworthy Burton Custom (classic camber) 158 cm board for the past 4 or so years. This season in France, I rented a Custom X 2017 just to try it because I heard it was a possible “next step up” in the learning curve. After 2-3 hours of getting used to the unfamiliar stiff and planky feel of the Custom X, I started to really enjoy carving with it and used it the whole week on the grooms – many of them super-cruddy and unprepared, and I enjoyed its powerful “pop”, high speed, bombing and knifing through uneven snow, and longer glide on uphills and flats compared to my regular Custom. Near love at first sight except that when I took the Custom X into the deep snow, I felt it got cranky and unmanageable unless I pointed it straight. I was much harder to turn and float in the deep stuff compared to my own Custom regular although I set the bindings back. I felt that this “X” was not one with the powder riding which I love and strive to master.
So… now I want to look elsewhere for my “upgrade” to a board that caters to the riding style I find myself pursuing all the time – which is towards Freeride – to bomb grooms at high speed, carving clean lines, and venturing back country for unspoiled snow and off-piste/powder wherever I can find it. I don’t visit the park at all – but will sometimes play around with brief spurts of buttering and low jumps while I ride. Haven’t gone much into trees yet, but starting to.
Been reading all the informative reviews and follower-comments on your site. The YES PYL sounds like a great board for this stuff. I’m also looking at the Rossignol XV Magtek.
Finally here come my questions …
1. Would either of these boards be right for me and a good “driver” to the next level
2. Is one of these better for me than the other – or would you suggest other alternatives?
3. Size – should I go for a 159, 160W or a 162 length for these boards in relation to my size and level?
4. Bindings – can you recommend optimal bindings to go with my new board? I hear that the Burton Genesis X is a good option? Or should I go for something softer at my level?
My set up today is:
Boots: Burton Imperial, Imprint 3 liner (stiffness), US size: 10
Board: Burton Custom 158 with Malavita (EST) bindings
My height: 5.8 feet
My weight: 158 lbs
Preferred stance – duck +15, -15 – approx. 22.5” (57 cm) wide, a bit set back.
Sorry for the long story to get to simple questions.. 😊
Louis
Hi Louis
Thanks for your message (and sorry for the delayed reply, have been on vacation).
Thanks for the details:
1. I think a freeride board definitely sounds like the right thing for you. Either of these boards would work for sure,
2. The PYL would be my top recommendation for you – just because it’s a little better (from experience) with jumps and uneven snow, but the Rossi XV is also a good option, IMO.
3. In terms of size, I would say 159 for the PYL. I think the 160W would be a little too wide and the 162 a little too long. The 156 would be doable too, but since you’re used to a 158 already and this is the kind of board you can ride a little longer than usual, the 159 would be the best pick for you, IMO. 159 for the Rossignol XV as well, IMO.
4. The Burton Genesis would work with either of those boards. I would say anything from the following list would be a good match:
>>Top 5 All-Mountain-Freeride Bindings
Or this if you wanted to go a bit stiffer again
>>Top 5 Freeride Bindings
For these types of boards, because of that extra stiffness, I would recommend going with something at least 7/10 in terms of stiffness, as if you go too soft, the bindings don’t do as good a job of driving the board, if that makes sense. That said, I did ride the PYL 2019 recently with Malavitas and it was fine – but if I was to buy bindings for it, I would go a little stiffer.
Hope this helps
Hi Nate,
Thanks for the thorough reply. Getting excited now about a Yes PYL! Good to hear you were on vacation. Hope it involved some snowboarding 😊
Looking back on my original posted question I can see that I made a typo (or miscalculation) regarding my height. My height is not 5, 8” but 5, 10” (or 177+ cm).
My weight was right. So repeating the facts:
Boots: Burton Imperial, Imprint 3 liner (stiffness), US size: 10
My height: 5.10 feet (177 cm)
My weight: 158 lbs (approx. 72 KG)
Preferred stance – duck +15, -15 – approx. 22.5” (57 cm) wide
Given my true height would the 159 Yes PYL at length 159 still be your best advice for me? I read here on the thread that the PYL can be ridden a bit longer due to the shorter true effective edge with rocker in front. Advantages being more float in powder and more edge bite on grooms. Cons being harder to swing around in the trees….
Sorry for the error regarding my height in my first post… Im sure the 159 board would still be awesome for my 5 10”… and could be that a 162 would be a lot to handle after going from a 158 burton custom … but I thought I’d ask to make sure before I commit the money…. I want the board to last me some years and push me to improve as well …
I expect I will mostly seek out riding in powder, bombing grooms and nice carving,… and less of trees…
And with those preferences in mind, regarding the bindings – should I lean towards the Genesis X flex 7 (which is at the top of your list for all-mountain free ride bindings), rather than stiffer freeride 8-9 flex binding models? Thinking that it could make sense since I’m coming from Malavita flex 5, and the new PYL board is also a significant step upwards in flex and high response. What will be the pros and cons in getting a less responsive flex 7 binding against a more responsive flex 8 binding for my (new) PYL setup. I will want new bindings no matter what since my Malavita’s are EST (as well as rather worn now).
Hi Louis
I’d say 159 is still a good call. You could go to 162 but I think 159 is still the best balance. But I wouldn’t go 156 now, given the new specs.
The Genesis X should be ample to drive this board and would be an easier transition to stiffer bindings than going with something 8 or 9. So I think something like that would be a good choice. Like I said, the PYL even worked with Malavitas, so you certainly shouldn’t need to go stiffer than 7/10, IMO.