Which boards to test?

Posted: 22 November 2010 09:06 PM

Hi Guys,

I’m hoping I can get a bit of advice from you as I’m pretty bewildered by all my options.

My stats are 30yrs old, 6ft (182 cm) , 74kg (160lbs), UK 11 Shoe & a have good fitness level.

My current board was given to me by a friend, it’s a cheap no brand, fast, very stiff & not much pop. 158. Has a very slight camber (I can barely slide a finger under the middle when it’s lay on a flat surface) I ride that duck at +/- 15.  I’ve invested in some Burton Mission bindings.

My boarding experience is 2 years, completed the beginner snowboard course at the chill factor, 14 days on piste in Europe, a lesson in stance & carving & also 30 hours of indoor action.
When first starting out I found i picked it up quite quickly, i was ahead of the group & the first to progress onto the main indoor slope. I can now make it down the mountain at speed with the boys who’ve been at it for 5-7 years.

Speed & carving has been the main part of my boarding experience & more than likely will continue to be. I can’t ride switch comfortably but am working on it.  I have been doing a few jumps & 180s recently & will be exploring that more. I’m really not bothered about rails. Never tried Pipe as haven’t been anywhere with one, but given the opportunity would love to have a go. Absolutely love powder, but found that with the current board i needed a replacement leg at the end of each day! :)

From what i can gather, I should be looking for an all round board, slightly longer as my main activity is going fast down the mountain & taking powder runs where possible. I had my mind set on a Burton Custom 162. That is until I stumbled across your website & now I’m not so sure.

I’m looking to test 4 or 5 boards at an indoor slope over the next month. With a a view to buying one at the beginning of January, the budget is no more than £500 ($800.00)

Any advice / board suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I’d be more than happy to come back on here & review my findings.

Thanks

Neil

Posted: 23 November 2010 01:59 AM

I think Neil you answered most of your questions…  a longer board, stiffer flex, perhaps directional twin unless you really want to progress at switch then a true twin.  If you are going to test boards see what they have with those above general factors and then you can compare board to board which will be a lot better as you’ll have direct experience with which to make a choice which is far better then anyones opinion.  Throw in some reverse cambers as well so you can feel what they offer as well.