Mountain Weekly News ~

I suck at reviews and don’t want to become better. I buy and use gear I like, and it is superior to your gear unless we are rocking the same kit in which case superiority reigns equal. At least that’s how I perceive it. Why spend my money on something I think from the get-go is inferior, of course my gear is the shit! With that said, I am a fairly-friendly, partially-souled redhead who responds to all gear queries with “oh I love it” because I do love my setup and what I’m thinking will offend you.

Nate’s “My shit is better than yours” ‘10-’16 Top 4 Gear Review List. (These are in no particular order as they are all #1 in my eyes. Go gear, make papa proud, yay!)

Freeride Systems Antero 2 and 2+

Freeride Systems jackets are made in Colorado with a truly simple, well-thought out, and effective design. The new 2+ offers a lightweight Neoshell version weighing only 19.25 oz. in large and is becoming the only one I wear. The algorithm of outerwear superiority or K-factor is simple D+I+C=K D is distance item traveled, I is item weight, C is $ equaling K. I bet mine is smaller than yours 539.25. Unless you are rocking Voormi or some old school Wave Rave, go take a lap.

Furberg Freeride

The most versatile and game changing freeride boards you’ll ever ride aka a Furberg! Multiple lap inducing and best to have a Freeride Systems Antero jacket on. Ride one and see! Editors note: Nate does not work for Freeride, he is a fan boy however. Either way go checkout my freeride split review!

Now Binders

It’s like skateboarding, brah…the kingpin shit and stuff. That old French dude with the beard owns them, Terje something. I sometimes rock them with the no-backs just like he does, such a surfy feel yo. Editors note: Which NOW’s? Either way you get the point here, NOW makes the best snowboard binding on the market, whats up JF, you splitboard….

Freeride Systems Touring and Hiking System

This one will be updated. I just had a cool discovery regarding its configuration, sub 4 lbs. for shovel, probe, and vertical carry system all tucked away into a fanny pack hidden under my jacket. It’s better than lugging around your backpack.

Honorable mention must go to the industry as a whole because everybody deserves a participation ribbon. Thanks for helping me buy the best shit!

Happy New Year,

The post Nate’s My Snowboard Gear is Better Than Yours List? WTF!? appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Big Perm.

Mountain Weekly News ~

We updated our annual list of the best splitboards of the year. Here are a few you’ll want to add to your bird-spotting list, presented by the Mountain Weekly. One caveat though, a bunch of these splitboards will be tough to get your hands.. 16/17 Splitboard Watch-list

Lib Tech Travis Rice Goldmember

It’s a Lib Tech, it’s a Travis Rice, and thank goodness its graphics don’t involve any more thoughtful catamaran.

While the nautical musings have been left on the cutting room floor, the camber profile on the TRGM does resemble a seagull in flight, with elongated camber and shortened rocker improving your glide and float. Think shorter wingspan with revved up performance, a terrific snag and addition to your backcountry quiver.

Olive Splitzo

The latest addition to the Olive split portfolio, the Splitzo is a progressively cambered all-mountain board that bridges the gap between freestyle and freeride; You don’t need to choose one or the other, the divide effectively closed between your fave backcountry disciplines. Hits and hips, big lines and drops, the Splitzo has all your neuroses and paranoia covered with this pill of a splitboard.

Never Summer 25 Split

I can’t wait to get in the backseat with the Blaho Bros. “Bat Tail” on this ‘board. The low-pro, notched butt-end of this Never Summer split is designed to drop your backside just enough to porpoise your nose up and out of the pow as you break the white wake down the mountain. Cool design, utility graphics, this is a sleek black shredder of a ride.

Spline Killer Split

Justim Lamoureux’s brainchild, Spline boards are research, design, and engineering refined mountain killers. Since its inception, The Killer Split (a split version of the signature Quiver Killer) has seen more peaks in and around the Squamish-Whistler corridor than you can shake a stick at. A carbon infused fiberglass blend keeps things lightweight and poppy, and the one off custom resin tints are bee-yoo-tee-full.

Venture Zelix

They’re baaaack! After a season in limbo the Branners are back waving the Venture Snowboards Banner from l’il old Silverton Colorado. The Zelix is another terrific model-mash design, blending freestyle and freeride chops into a great do-it-all deck. Combining legendary durability with cottage industry know-how, great to see these guys back on the map.

Plum Splitboards

Plum still seems to be suffering from pretty crap distribution in North America, but if you can put in the time and legwork the products are worth it. Know more for their Feyan split bindings, Plum also makes some sweet splitboards for the aspiring mountaineer in all of us. Family owned and genuinely French, these decks are designed for burly, Alp-y terrain.

Oz Fantasy Blaster

I guess it’s a pretty good sign when a brand sells through its entire production run this early in the season… renowned for their custom ‘board options, Oz has several splitboard models, from the asymmetric OzSym to this, the Fantasy Blaster. Flat, fat and floaty, this carbon enhanced split looks as dreamy as its graphics suggest.

Splitboards and splitboarding have grown up a bit now, and the awkward, web-footed, clumsy contraptions have morphed into some pretty good looking ganders.

Past winners below:

Never Summer: Prospector Split

Full-disclosure here, I’ve coveted my friends’ Never Summer splits for a while. US-made, Colorado-made, whatever, my interest has more to do with what I can only guess is the “elastomeric underfoot stabilizers” working in concert with an encyclopedia-worth of other tech and comfort features; There are no heated seats, but the dampening effect underfoot on the downhill, and the rocker profile when climbing, are design considerations you can actually feel doing what they’re supposed to. I’d probably switch out the Chinese hooks for K-clips, but would be hard-pressed to mod anything else. Never Summer altered the industry with multiyear warranties, and they stand behind a dang good product.

Venture Snowboards: Whatever you can find

Two of our favorite people in the shred world, Lisa and Klem Branner Photo Transworld Business

Oh, Venture. Silverton, Colorado-manufactured radness, I rode Venture boards for eight years. While they’re taking a hiatus this season, there are lots of long-term Venture fans hoping that Klem, Lisa and the crew will stage a comeback. The Storm split was my go-to board in the Himalayas, throughout BC and the U.S, while more recently the Odin has been great fun while integrating some trickery into my bag of backcountry moves. While watching for a Venture this year may be like Waiting For Guffman or bagging a unicorn, it’s a classy brand that has a reputation for solid, bomb-proof product. Consider yourself lucky if you can find one available at secondhand!

Lib Tech: Travis Rice Split HP

Aside from producing some of the best boards in the world, Mervin Manufacturing also has some of the best infographics. Horses flying aeroplanes? Awesome. If you’re looking for a splitboard that features industry-leading ecological construction, proven technological performance (Magne-Traction, etc) and an established reputation as a multi-year production model, this is a board you’ll want to check out. Made in the USA and with an obvious connection between Travis and Wyoming, expect to see this Parillo-spiced top-sheet on skin-tracks throughout the region.

Arbor: Abacus Split

I love Arbor’s design aesthetic; their decks always look like they’d be totally relaxed sitting in a micro-roastery surrounded by distressed-wood-pallet walls and masonry jars full of micro-brewed shaving lather… So yeah, they make beautiful, hip boards, but the artisanal vibe doesn’t end at the top-sheet, it’s at work throughout the entire split. The Abacus bonds an old-world craftsman vibe with real-world materials, their Wyoming-heavy pro-team vetting the boards and getting the goods; Mark Carter and Bryan Iguchi are no slouches, the Abacus sticking it to lazy koalas by way of a genuine eucalyptus top-sheet and a variety of other mind-full materials. In all seriousness, though, their ecology-based mindset is inspiring, their “Returning Roots” program a great way to give back.

Jones: Explorer Split

The Explorer Split is a terrifically versatile entry-level splitboard. The design isn’t that of an over-the-top, concept-heavy quiver addition, rather, it’s a well-designed stepping-stone for those new to the backcountry or to folks on a reasonable budget. Like the Lib Tech Travis Rice Split, the Explorer features Magne-Traction (albeit a more mellow version), and the finished product incorporates some thoughtful environmental considerations, too; recycled steel edges, Bio-wax factory wax, and a 1% For The Planet commitment. I also like the skins-tensioning notches built into the design, a nice way to cut down on overloading the swear-jar when making tracks!

Olive: Numbchuck Split

Both a color and a garnish, Olive has been pressing skateboards and snowboards for two decades in Edmonton, Alberta. Their Numbchuck split features an elongated nose and shorter, flat tail. The overall profile is flat giving you great float in the deep stuff while holding an edge when you need it. As a small brand it’s unlikely you’ll see it in a shop near you, but the US-Canadian exchange rate is so screamingly good right now this is a split you may want to snag for your quiver. I mean, nunchucks? Who are we to say no? K-clips lock this unit together and it is Jasper-approved.

Furberg: Freeride Split

Made in Norway, Furberg is advancing some pretty cool design features into their ‘boards, and the Freeride Split benefits from the bunch of them. Never mind it looks like a bleached pickle, the innovative sidecut, camber and materials selection has already won them some serious accolades in big-mountain Euro circles. My buddy Wiggles just wrapped up a season in New Zealand and is officially a Furberg super-fan, the man usually destroying a board or three each season; his Freeride split is returning to Canada intact, something to be said for durability in design.

The post Best Splitboards of 2016 appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Tyler Bradley.

Mountain Weekly News ~

We’ve all been that guy at one point or another, the guy that’s the liability when you’re in the backcountry. The guy who forgets his beacon and doesn’t notice until the beacon check at the trailhead; or the guy leaving the inbounds gate to do a quick sidecountry lap without avy-gear because “it’s OK, I’ve done this run hundreds of times”; or the guy who stops in the middle of a steep powder field to take a picture of all his buddies behind him…

Most times, we get away with it, but an easy mistake, like ignoring group dynamics on the ascent, or not reading the avalanche forecast before heading out, can quickly turn into the most costly mistake of our lives. So that being said here’s the most important elements necessary to make sure you are not that guy.

Avalanche Education

by Sarah Borup
Backcountry skiing is the winter sports industry’s fastest-growing segment. This growth in backcountry skiing has left many in the industry concerned. More people are leaving mountain boundaries in search of untracked turns. About 1 in every 5 skiers and snowboarders explored some sort of backcountry terrain last year (about 3.2 million people).

Unfortunately, not all skiers heading further off-piste are properly equipped or trained. And all the gear in the world can’t replace preparedness, knowledge and cautious decision-making. In 2013-2014 skiers spent $40 million on touring equipment – an 8% annual increase in units sold and dollars, and backcountry accessories sales – beacons, probes, shovels, etc. – are (thankfully) increasing at an even more rapid clip, up 12% in 2013-14

If you’re accessing (or plan to access) the backcountry, hopefully you’ve already taken an avalanche course. If not, I can count 41 reasons why you should: 35 U.S. avalanche fatalities last season and 6 already recorded this season including a snowboarder in Utah that died last week while riding in the backountry without an avalanche beacon.

Field portion of a Jackson Hole Mountain Guides AIARE Course Photo Mike Hardaker | Mountain Weekly News

What to Expect

The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) offers Avalanche Awareness and Avalanche Safety courses appropriate for riders “frequenting avalanche terrain via lift access or easily accessible backcountry” or heading to “near country.” If you’re doing anything beyond that, you need the AIARE 1 Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain.

An introduction to avalanche hazard management course will run you about $350-$400. You’re worth it. It’s 3-days with a combined total of 24 hours in the classroom and field. Get the friends you often tour with and make a weekend out of it. You’ll walk away knowing how to: Plan and prepare for travel in avalanche terrain; Recognize avalanche terrain; Describe a basic framework for making decisions in avalanche terrain; Learn and apply effective companion rescue. It’s hands on. You’ll learn in the classroom and implement in the field. You’ll work as a team to make the right decisions depending on the conditions. It includes access to an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe, although you really should have these items if you are serious about getting into the backcountry. And if you’ve got a thirst for knowledge, you can continue your avalanche education with levels 2 and 3 (professional).

Avalanche Training Gets a Boost from Brands and Athletes

The accessibility of backcountry gear and the increasingly well-documented tours of pro skiers and riders are undoubtedly influencing the sport’s popularity. As they shine the spotlight on unspoiled terrain and put more backcountry products into the market, they have a growing responsibility to educate their customers. Brands and athletes are taking notice.

While it doesn’t seem to be operating now, Elyse Saugstad, Ingrid Backstrom, Michelle Parker, Jackie Paaso, Lel Tone and Sherry McConkey put together S.A.F.E. A.S. Women’s Introductory Clinic on Avalanche and Snow Safety to increase awareness and ensure women, too, have the right skills.

Salomon and Atomic announced a substantial initiative in this regard: Mountain Academy, an online backcountry education platform launching Fall 2015. According to Backcountry Magazine, it will feature “two online modules of 80 instructional videos” created in partnership with AIARE focused on backcountry terrain, avalanche scenarios, snowpack and gear. It’s free with the purchase of gear from either brand or around $40 with a portion of proceeds donated back to avalanche centers and educational programs. It’s no replacement for a course, but let’s you learn and brush up online. Another cool option that we have been digging on lately is the Avalanche Mastery series, its free, packed with tons of great knowledge about how to avoid avalanches and chock full of European humor..

If you already have ventured into the backcountry or are thinking about it, do yourself (and your friends a favor). Take an avalanche course. Soon.

Need more reason?
Did you know that avalanches kill more than 150 people every year? Nearly all of those deaths are preventable with proper education and safety practices. Even though avalanches seem like they happen without warning, there are many ways to tell if the area that you’re in is currently vulnerable to avalanches.

Anyone who spends time in the mountains in the winter is in danger of being in an avalanche, but those at the highest risk are backcountry skiers and snowboarders, snowmobilers, and climbers. These are the people who aren’t in ski areas, where there is professional avalanche control. Even if you’re in a ski area boundary, you could still be in danger if there has been a large amount of snowfall or if you’re very high, near the summit of a mountain.

Taking an avalanche safety course is the best way to make sure that you’re prepared to deal with the unexpected. In this type of course, you will learn about snow conditions and how to judge them, and how to make good decisions in the backcountry. If you take a higher-level course, you’ll also learn avalanche rescue techniques and risk mitigation. Most people won’t take a course higher than Level 1 (as defined by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center), but being more educated always means that you’re safer.

If you’re looking to take an avalanche safety course, you’re certainly in the right state.

For one list of courses, you can check here: the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. A simple online search will also give you many results for where to sign up for a class. Many classes are offered by guide services and mountain schools, two very reputable providers. When looking for class, make sure that the instructors are certified and experienced.

Whether you’re a big mountain backcountry skier, a recreational snowmobiler, or a first-time backcountry climber, make sure to be educated about avalanches before you head out into the field and insist that all of your companions are, too. The more we all know about avalanche safety, the safer we all are.

Avalanche gear

To attend a Level 1 class, you will need basic gear, which you can rent most likely from the same organization offering your class. But if you want to be serious about venturing into the backcountry, you should be ready to buy at least the basics.

Now what is considered basic gear? It used to be at least three items: beacon, shovel, and probe. However, recent advancements in technology have some arguing that an avalanche airbag should be added to this list. It’s hard to argue against the effectiveness of airbags, and the bottom line is, if you can afford one there’s no reason not to have one. There are several offerings for avalanche gear, with more coming out each season, which means that gear is not only getting better but cheaper.

Beacons: They started as clunky devices, with limited frequency and were so hard to use only French guides knew the esoteric nuisances of handling them appropriately. Today on the other hand, digital beacons are as easy to use as your smart phone; all you need to do is practice using it very often.

For example this year’s Mountain Weekly News “Editor’s Choice” for a beacon is the Link Avalanche Beacon from ARVA. This French company, in the market for 25 years, is just making a splash in the North American market, but with offerings like this, they should be here for a while. Priced at $450 USD, this beacon is fit for multiple burial searches with the mark/unmark feature, and with the crucial automatic switch to transmit mode.

Airbags: After several generations of these backpacks in the U.S. market, Black Diamond has come out this season with an iteration that is by far the most advanced and convenient. The Black Diamond Halo backpacks use the new JetForce technology that unlike previous airbags, which relied on compressed air, uses a powerful fan to inflate the airbag nearly as fast as a compressed air canister.

Besides the travel benefits of not having to deal with canisters in a plane, the most crucial aspect of this technology is that you can inflate the airbag as many times as the rechargeable lithium battery will allow, unlike canisters which required filling out the tank after every use.

Previously, if you got trigger happy, and released the airbag after hearing a dreadful whoompf in the snowpack, this meant that your bag was useless until you made it back and refilled your canister. With BD’s JetForce, just take your backpack off, deflate the bag, fold it in, and you’re set to go again.

Shovel and probes: The workhorse of avalanche gear, they’re offered by dozens of companies, most are solid offerings, but something to keep in mind is this: make sure your shovel has a metal scoop, its easy and fast to assemble, and lets you move a lot of snow in little time. For probes, experts prefer them at least 200cm tall, and with measuring marks alongside, that way they’ll also be useful to measure snow depth.

Finding good mentors is important, Trevor Campbell showing our editor Mike Hardaker the way in Nelson, BC

Be a Good Partner

All your fancy avalanche gear will be as good as an anchor tied to your neck if you do get buried and there’s no one to dig you out. This is why it’s crucial to find a good partner(s) and mentor(s) before heading out. If you are lucky enough to find an avalanche professional as a BC-ski mentor, who can show you the ropes of proper safe travel, be sure to offer them plentiful beer as they’re worth their weight in carbon fiber racing randonee boots.

Just 1.5% of avalanche fatalities in the US in the last 15 years have involved avalanche professionals , which just goes to show you how crucial proper education and skills are when venturing out. Most of us are not lucky enough to have Lou Dawson as a ski partner, but being a good partner is bound to make sure you get the 5am call on a powder day from the right people. Being a good partner includes: having adequate gear, knowledge, and good communication skills on the mountain, understanding your limits, and most important a humble attitude towards the mountain and your group’s decision-making process.

Even if you checked out everything on this list before venturing out, there’s no guarantee that you wont be a liability among your group; it’s just part of human nature, or as it’s know in avalanche forecasting “The Human Factor”.

But what you can do is be conscious of your limits, and use this state of consciousness to reduce the risk you’re putting your self and your group in. Just by doing that, you can be a manageable liability, someone who follows, defers, shares opinions, as opposed to a loose cannon that has blood shot eyes and is zombie speeding to get the next powder turn, endangering everyone around them while they’re at it. Remember the most important aspect of venturing into the backcountry is coming back in one piece.

For more info checkout avalanche.org

Avalanche Avoidance

by Nick Sirianno
You can take every precaution to prevent an avalanche from occurring but the only true guarantee of survival is to turn around, take the safest route home, and live to ski another day.

You’re the judge, it isn’t the avalanche report, it isn’t snow pit conditions, it isn’t the expert powder addict who tells you everything will be fine, it is you! So if you want to live a long life in the mountains play is safe, be confident in your decisions, and know that turning around might just save you life.

Training Avalanche Avoidance

Avalanche Training is probably the most important for understanding snow conditions but regardless of an avalanche, you should also know CPR, how to stop wounds from bleeding, how to treat breaks, strains, and fractures, and how to prevent hypothermia.  These skills can be learned in Wilderness First Aid.

Avalanche Gear

The big three are beacon, shovel and probe. If you don’t know what these are then you need to take an avalanche-training course. Technology today brings incredibly light and strong equipment. Carrying a more than necessary amount of gear is now possible because of the lightness of everything. 

Here is a list of best avalanche probes.  The shovel is your best friend in the event of an avalanche.  Here is a link to how to use one.  Finally, the beacon.  There is a long list of amazing beacons out there but here is a list of our favorite avalanche beacons.

Once you have the above three items then you can start getting into more advanced gear.  A snow saw, slope meter, 10x magnifying lens, crystal aluminum card, and a calibratible thermometer.  All of these items are designed for experts but if your getting into snow science and want to become an expert then this kit from BCA will get you started.

PRACTICE

You could have all the gear in the world but without practice it don’t mean diddley. Training is great but you still need to practice what you’ve learned.  Strap your buddies beacon to a backpack and hide it in the snow.

Practice shoveling as hard as you can for as long as you can. This is not a time to practice laly-gagging around. If you find an old debris field, take a look at that the snow is like. It might be icier and harder than immediately post avalanche but debris fields aren’t usually nice fluffy snow, they are usually big heavy chunks—the hardest to shovel.

“What If Gear”

What if an emergency does occur? You need to be prepared. If you know the feeling of “Holy Sh*#, we’re out here,” then you know that in an event of an emergency you would want to be prepared.

–Basic First Aid Kit– make sure it contains aspirin.

–SAM Splint– for treating sprains, breaks, and fractures.

–Food –Clif bars, or anything that is light and high in calories

–Water– a good thermos will stop your water from freezing

–Space blanket– light and incredibly ward

–Layers– fleece, wool, synthetic blends, but NO COTTON

–Tarp– If you need to carry out an injured person, tarps make dragging and carrying much easier than trying to grip a victim’s jacket and pants. A 6×8 should be more than enough.

–Rope or Parachute cord– for building shelters, securing broken limbs, and being MacGyver.

-Pocket Knife, whistle, reflective mirror, matches

Trustworthy Partners

Know whom your going with and what their experience levels are. Trust them with your life.

In conclusion, remember that you are the judge of every situation in the backcountry. Be confident in your training and never fail to speak your opinion and understanding of the situation.  If you ever need to call for help, the number is 911!  If you can’t call, try texting; seriously it is sometimes better if you’re in a choppy service zone.  

Talk over your rescue plan in the event of an emergency, stay calm, and call for help immediately! Have an amazing season, and stay safe!

Last But Not Least

by Mike Hardaker
Backcountry! It’s all the rage these days, however anytime you leave the resort boundaries or head out into the wilderness on your own, a few simple steps will help to keep you alive. And actually there is really only one skill and couple tools you need…

Step 1

Take an Avalanche class, you really want to start here. Stop geeking out on new Airbags, beacons, and other gear that will only get you way over you head. Speaking of head this brings us to the most important tool you will ever need for skiing or riding in the backcountry, are you ready for it. It’s called your brain and we all have one. Now start using it..

My recommendation is to signup for a basic Avalanche Level I class through an AIRE provider. If you live in a mountain town, odds are there is a class near you this winter. Pay attention in the classroom and take notes!

AIARE Avalanche course with Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, Photo Mike Hardaker | Mountain Weekly News

Step 2

Learn how to read terrain and slope angles, its the easiest way to avoid putting yourself or your partners in avalanche terrain. There is a MAJOR difference between skiing and riding in the backcountry and going out into avalanche terrain. I spent 90% of my time in the backcountry these days and of that at most maybe 10% of my season has me exposed to avalanche terrain. Learn to enjoy ripping low angle chest deep blower pow turns, and live to ride another day… Do you really want to die in the mountains, there’s nothing glamorous about it, grow up!

Most Important Tool #2

Without fail every time I head into the backcountry I never leave home without a simple slope inclinometer. (yes it’s hard to pronounce). BCA has one in there Snow Study Kit that I reviewed back in 2013. However another tool which I started using and is worth every penny is the $12 PoleClinometer for Snowwander LLC. Whats rad about this system that was designed by backcountry skier Grayson King is all you have to do is place the slope reader sticker on your ski pole and the PoleClinometer will show you the slope angle you’re interested in riding within about 1-2º.

There you have it, it’s that simple. Don’t believe the industry hype surrounding airbags unless you dig false positives.. Just remember all these stats about survival come from people that made a clear mistake in reading the terrain they were riding. Now if you are working as a ski guide, patroller and find yourself routinely in terrain that can slide, then perhaps at that point consider the other tools. For the other 99.9% of us, stay safe with your brain and the ability to read terrain.

The post Avalanche Training How to Not be a Liability in the Backcountry appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Ricardo Moreno.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Winter weather is finally upon us! The snow has already begun to blanket the best mountains in the world, and riders have been ready. If you’re stoked on this season – and I know you are… check out these top 6 picks for the best women’s snowboard jackets.

Burton AK Gore-Tex 2L Altitude Jacket. Toping the list and taking the #1 spot for best women’s snowboard jackets is **drum roll please** the Burton AK Gore-Tex 2L Altitude. Made to handle the roughest backcountry conditions and the toughest female riders, this zip-up jacket delivers guide-worthy protection with legendary breathability. Additional features include a neck gasket collar and powder gasket cuffs so you’ll be sealed in tight – away from windy weather and frigid snow. Featuring an exclusive Gore-Seam® technology, the Burton AK Gore-Tex 2L Altitude also keeps your body temperature adjusted so you never have to worry about overheating inside and soaking yourself with sweat. Additional features include, micro-adjustable hood and exterior-access media pocket.

Mammut Biwak Down Jacket. Nothing protects your sensitive skin from winter weather like this puffy jacket from Mammut. Made with an exclusive Pertex Endurance outer shell, the fabric is water resistant and highly compressible so you can stuff this all-purpose jacket in any sack. 880-fill goose down will keep you warm, and the three-point hood allows you to adjust, with or without a helmet. My favorite part about this jacket is the fibrefill body mapping inserts. It can really warm up inside down jackets, but the Mammut Biwak Down Jacket includes this unique underarm transfer to wick moisture away and keep things dry inside.

Patagonia Insulated Powder Bowl Jacket. Ok ladies… if you’re craving powder – this is the jacket for you. Made with a 2-layer Gore-Tex outer membrane to lock moisture out even in high winds, you’ll be snug and comfortable as the strategically placed vents give you breathability to sweat freely AND stay warm. Ventilated and completely environmentally friendly, this jacket features 100g Thermogreen insulation in just the right spots, where you need warmth the most. Additionally, this all-condition backcountry jacket was made for the deepest snow days plus wind chill and bitter ice blasts. It’s all good in the Patagonia Women’s Insulated Powder Bowl Jacket.

FlyLow Gear Bille Coat. Made for backcountry beauties, this jacket has a triple-layered shell that handles cold, wet conditions easily. Its high-functioning design includes a waterproof membrane, DWR coated mid-layers and underarm vents especially positioned for gnarly female riders. Additional features include a helmet-compatible hood, removable powder skirt, 7 stash pockets, and an ultra-tall hood so you can ski with your helmet on. Just incase you get a little too hyped-up out there, and find yourself smothered in POW, the removable powder skirt will keep your assets dry.

Arc’teryx Tiya Jacket. Nobody said you can’t look fly AF in active snowfall. Take the Arc’teryx Women’s Tiya Jacket along for the ride on the next trip you take into the backcountry. It’s there for you in every way a reliable jacket should be – with zippered vents for breathability, fully taped seams, helmet compatibility & a drop hood, a slim-looking silhouette, a laminated brim that stays out of sight, and Coreloft® body-mapped insulation for extra comfort and all-weather warmth. Adjustable hem and cuffs make it easy to swap out gloves & mittens, and you’ll never need to look for a place to stash anything with plenty of pockets,, specifically designed for goggles, passes and more!

Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket. Made to fit Janes of all trades, this down Patagonia jacket is ideal for every cold weather situation. Don’t let the #5 spot fool you, this is still one of the best women’s snowboard jackets of the season. Lightweight and windproof, it’s made with a 100% recycled polyester shell and 100 fill power Traceable Down. What’s traceable down? This jacket is filled with goose down from geese that are tracked from farm to apparel factory, to ensure the birds are not force-fed or live-plucked. All certified by NSF – an independent third party, you can feel good about your jacket while you stay protected from the elements. Ultra-comfortable, and ultra-versatile this jacket was made just for ladies who rip, with a classic zip-up style.

Get online and grab these 6 best women’s snowboarding jackets for the 2017 season – STAT! They’ve made our list, now add them to yours!

Another jacket that nearly made the list is the Women’s L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down

6 Essential Womens Backcountry Gear Must Haves
by Stephanie Buelow
Do you have a female backcountry skier or snowboarder in your life? This winter get a girl what she really wants. We compiled this seasons must haves for any backcountry shredder. These are not just accessories; they are staples to those who want to explore this winter.

The The North Face – Women’s Sickline backcountry specific jacket is designed for all weather and steep terrain. Any female would love the freedom and protection this jacket provides. The Sickline has insulation throughout the body of the jacket with less insulation in the sleeves. This design adds to the two-way stretch for maximum freedom of movement. Ideal for hiking or skinning up a slope. This fully featured jacket is also made of HyVent, a waterproof, breathable fabric.

Patagonia’s Capilene 3 is made from moisture wicking polyester. Making them an ideal layering piece for the backcountry. Don’t let cotton affect your bid for the summit and layer smart for the weather.

Another great baselayer we have been raving about is from Polarmax, checkout the line of polarmax technical base layer options for skiing and snowboarding.

Quick changing lens systems have taken over today’s goggles. Show her you care by gifting the top of the line, Smith’s I/07s. These spherical lenses have a single pivot, quick release lens system. Switch lenses quickly to prepare for any type of light. We liked these soo much they made our list for the best snowboard googles of the year!

Both the Black Diamond – Carbon and Pure Carbon Ski poles are ideal for going the distance in winter conditions. The Carbon Compactor poles are great for snowboarders because of the weight and collapsible technology. While the Pure Carbon are more ski-focused poles, light and durable for going up and down the mountain.

The Ortovox Zoom + transmitter is a great gift to empower your favorite shredder because the first step for getting out in the backcountry is being prepared. The Zoom + combines design and function with the latest technology in transmitting. An LED display allows clear transitions between transmitting and searching. We dug this beacon so much it made the list of the Best 3 Antenna Avalanche Beacons.

With the Burton Approach glove you have 2-in-1 versatility with touch screen technology. Both weatherproof and breathable this is the glove designed for all seasons. The ergonomic fit brings functionality to the backcountry. This is one of the most versatile gloves on the market today.

The post Top 6 Best Women’s Snowboard Jackets for 2017 appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Brittany Artwohl.

Mountain Weekly News ~

DENVER, CO – Mountain Weekly News is proud to have awarded our second annual Editor’s Choice Awards on the floor of the SnowSports Industries America (SIA) trade show this year. This is some of the hottest 2018 snowboard gear coming to the market next fall.

The SIA show is an exciting event that brings together manufacturers, retailers and media to preview all the cool snowboard gear coming to the market for the 2017/2018 season.

The five award categories were Best Snowboard For Having Fun, Best New Exhibitor, Best Splitboards, Best Splitboard Boots, Best Splitboard Bindings and Best Outerwear Scroll down to find out who took home the prize for best of SIA snow 2017-2018. This is the 2018 snowboard gear I am standing behind. Odds are you will enjoy it too..

Best Splitboards

1. Rossignol Sushi

2. Arbor Coda

3. Weston Big Chief

Best Snowboard for Fun

1. Never Summer Insta Gator

Best Outwear

1. Patagonia Descensionist Jacket and Pants

Best Splitboard Binding

1. Union Expedition Binding

Best Splitboard Boots

1. Deeluxe XV

2. Rome SDS Libertine

The post 2017 SIA Editor’s Choice Awards appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

DENVER, CO – Are you looking to see what next years 2017 – 2018 snowboards look like? I spent a few days on the SIA Snow Show floor taking photos of *just about every single new snowboard I could find on display. Below you can checkout photos of some of the most progressive snowboard shapes coming to the market for next winter.

Snowboarding is growing up nicely; we seem to aging like a fine wine. There were however a lot of brands that decide not to exhibit this years annual tradeshow, instead they opted to start their own show?

This 2017-2018 snowboard / splitboard preview will focus solely on brands that are invested in the sport of snowboarding, and actually showed up to support SIA and everyone involved. Kudos to all the manufactures, these boards look sick!!

Aloha Snowboards 2018

Arbor Snowboards 2018

Burton Snowboards 2018

Capita Snowboards 2018

Dinosaurs Will Die Snowboards 2018

Endeavor Snowboards 2018

Flow Snowboards 2018

GNU Snowboards 2018

Jones Snowboards 2018

K2 Snowboards 2018

Lib Tech Snowboards 2018

Moss Snowstick Snowboards 2018

Never Summer Snowboards 2018

Niche Snowboards 2018

Nidecker Snowboards 2018

Powderjet Snowboards 2018

Prior Snowboards 2018

Ride Snowboards

Rome Snowboards 2018

Rossignol Snowboards 2018

Salomon Snowboards 2018

Smokin’ Snowboards 2018

Venture Snowboards 2018

Weston Snowboards 2018

Yes Snowboards 2018

snowboarding, here to stay!

The post 2018 Snowboards & Splitboards Preview appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

If you splitboard you can thank the guys above (left to right) Will Ritter of Spark R&D and Tyler Kloster of Karakoram for their solid innovations to the split world over the past few years. Spark R&D must be especially stoked this year to be celebrating the brands 10th anniversary!

2017/2018 will see a few new manufactures enter the splitboard binding world in the United States market along with some major updates from the current industry leaders.

Union Expedition Splitboard Binding

New for the 2017/2018 winter will see another major player enter the splitboard binding world, the Union Binding Company which is releasing the Expedition splitboard binding, this is what professional snowboarder Travis Rice had to say:

“Up until now, the split boarding experience has been hindered by bindings that are built for mountaineering, not snowboarding.”

I don’t fully agree with Travis, however the Union Expedition binding (shown above) does feel much more like a traditional offering from Union making it uniquely different to the other splitboard bindings on the market. The materials, weight and comfort will be tough to match for the other major splitboard binding manufactures in North America including Voile, Spark R&D, Karakoram and a newcomer in Fix Bindings whose release date is tbd.

The use of the pin system does seem to set Union a little behind in terms of current splitboard tech, although the ease of use and ability to get first timers into splitboard may just just outweigh it.

Along with the Expedition binding Union is offering splitboard crampons for 2017/2018, when combined with the new Capita Splitboard and skins, C3 is quickly looking to become a splitboard powerhouse. Which will surely have the current players stepping up their game even more to compete with one of the largest snowboarding binding manufactures in the world for their share of the splitboard binding market.

“I feel like this product is going to change the perception that people have about splitboarding. You don’t have to compromise performance for freedom while touring.” – Bryan Iguchi.

Voile Splitboard Bindings

Voile updated it’s Speed Rail and Light Rail Binding for the 2017/2018 winter complete with a heal lock down function, updated highback featuring 25 degrees of additional front to back movement and 12 different forward lean angles. And for everyone looking for more torsional support the highbacks feature cutouts compatible with Voile straps.

If not for Voile and their decades of splitboard innovations none of this would exist, so be sure to keep Voile on your radar especially considering they are now offering the Speed Rail pinless splitboard binding, crampons and insane highback flexibility. (shown below)

Spark R&D Splitboard Bindings

For the 2017/2018 season Spark R&D updated their Arc and Surge bindings with brand new light weight Pillow Line Straps that look and feel super comfortable. Along with the new straps Spark R&D updated their climbing wires with the addition of the Whammy Bar that should make it even easier to engage or disengage the riser on the way uphill.

Both the Arc Binding and Surge Binding from Spark R&D are also available in Women’s specific versions and colorways.

Also new for 2017/2018 is the Spark R&D Crossbar Clip that is designed to pull both parts of the splitboard in together. In the past the industry relied on either Voile or Karakoram, so it’s nice to see Spark entering this realm as well. The clips seem easy to use and have the ability to be adjusted as needed by turning a set screw. So you can say goodbye to big old gaps between your splitboard moving forward.

Karakoram

Last year Karakoram introduced the splitboard world to there new Flex Lock system, and it looks to be something we will see a lot more of in the future. Whats great about the Flex Lock is it gives you the ability to tighten down your Karakoram bindings against the upper part of your calf giving even more response to the binding while on the way up. With a solid connection between the highback and your ankle strap this innovative system from Karakoram will help to increase lateral support, something the splitboard world, especially soft booters are in dire need of.

Another new piece of tech Karakoram is bringing to the splitboard world comes in the form of new clips to hold your splitboard together. The brand new UltraClips will according to Karakoram:

Once joined the UltraClip fully constrains the seam of your splitboard to eliminate seam rattling, seam shearing, and seam rolling.

The new UltraClip is music to our ears as its can be super frustrating when your board starts to separate over time, even worse is when you can see light through each half of the board. Luckily it looks like those days are coming to an end thanks to new new connectors from both Karakoram and Spark R&D, most likely Voile will follow suit..

Fix

A new player is potentially emerging in the splitboard world for 2017/2018 in the form of Fix Bindings. We’re still waiting for more information on the system and release date. The Fix Binding Co splitboard binding I saw at the SIA trade show was light weight, simplistic and looked like a traditional snowboard binding similar to the Union Expedition. This binding looks to be pin free and will have a very unique interface.

More details to follow on this binding from the Fix Binding Co to follow..

European Brands

There are a ton of splitboard binding manufactures in Europe and even New Zealand, the issue becomes getting gear here to the states. For now we will leave the brands that are not available in North America off this list.

Hard Boot Bindings

If you’re looking for information on hard boot bindings for splitboarding you’re in the wrong place. Having grown up a surfer and spending all my free time in the winter chasing powder I enjoy the feeling of soft boots under foot. Surely the hard boots will make touring much more efficient however for me it’s not worth sacrificing any fun or freedom when going downhill.

The post The Future of Splitboard Bindings … appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Ah, splitboard skins.  You either Love Em or hate em.  There really is no in-between.  Luckily we took the guess work out of finding a solid pair of splitboard skins for your next tour.  One thing to keep in mind is for the most part splitboard skins are not coming cut from the factory to exactly match each board.  This creates areas where snow can and will get in and under the skin.

Everyone has a good splitboard skin story, that’s for sure.  Below are the skin we recommend for a fun, safe outing in the backountry. Oh and PS some of these skins are hard to find without contacting the manufactures directly as they are European brands.

Best Splitboard Skins

1. Kohla Mix-Mohair Splitboard Skins

Mohair is easier to glide but you sacrifice traction; synthetic fibers optimize traction but, as you can probably deduce from this little rundown, it’s tougher to glide. With a mohair/synthetic mix, you get the best of both worlds and across the most variable conditions. And depending on the depth and mix of the fibers, the mix can actually become a stronger beast than either individually. Kohla’s mix and length delivers just this and in spades.

They also use less material and less adhesive. This means your skins are easier to separate at those early morning trailheads. It also means they can roll up to smaller than a beer can and you can shove them into even the most-overfull backpacks because, hell, Backcountry 101 means you need to be prepared for every occasion and as you learn more about the what ifs, you realize you need more on your back.

Buy Now

2. Colltex Whizzz Splitboard Skins

What is it that makes the Wizzz skins from Colltex differ from other skins on the market? The Whizzz is made of 65% mohair + 35% polyamide. Mohair is the tried and true material for skins that offers great grip and glide all in one. What the Wizzz does is combine mohair with an acrylic adhesive glue-less layer that makes these skins super easy to pull apart and store without the need for a skin saver net.

3. High Trail Evotec Splitboard Skins

I will start with what I really like about these skins. First off they are glueless making them incredibly easy to pull on and off your splitboard, and even easier to pull apart when the skins are stuck together, no more mesh needed.

One the way up it will be hard to find another pair of skins with this much traction. The Evotec skins use a silicone-based adhesion, to be honest not sure what that means, but it’s not glue and its working much better then any of the other 4 pairs of skins I am currently testing. That much I can tell you.

Past Winners: by Ben Osborne

Nothing is more frustrating than spending the first hour of your day messing with your skins trying to get them to work. Or the last half hour, or any time in between that.

It’s important to have a pair of skins that is durable and fits the type of skiing you are doing. Here’s a few quality companies you can rely on year in and year out that make some of the best splitboard skins on the market and why :

As of now, there are skins made of three different types of material on the market—Nylon, Mohair, and Mixed (Nylon & Mohair). Essentially Nylon gives the user more uphill grip, and is more durable, while Mohair generally glides better, is a bit lighter (can pack into your pocket easier as well), but may be more susceptible to breaking down due to wear and tear.

4. Jones Snowboards Pomoca Splitboard Skins

Many people might see the name Jones and rush out to buy their newest product. When it comes to boards, they are one of the top producers, so clearly the team is going to make a solid pair of skins, especially when teamed up with the likes of Pomoca. Made of 100% mohair, Jones Skins will be real sticky on steep tracks but will sacrifice some on the glide.

Like most Jones products, theses skins are on the high end for pricing ($175.00), and well worth the cost.

Buy Now

5. G3 Splitboard Skins

All of G3’s skins come with some level of a mix of nylon on mohair, with different models containing different levels of each. The nice thing about G3 skins is the amount of choices they offer, with different levels of traction, glide, and options for both skiiers and boarders! Beautiful. Visit their site to decide if you’re a high traction kinda guy/gal, or if you need to use their Momix model for a bit more glide. G3 skins typically have a bit more glide than the average skin, so beware when purchasing them if you are especially opposed to a little extra glide—it can be quite inconvenient at times, or extremely convenient in the right situation.

In addition to many options for types of skin, G3 has a great tail/nose clip system, which works quite well. Quality choice for skins for slightly cheaper ($188) than brands like Black Diamond, but beware of the GLIDE—unless you need it.

Buy Now

6. Colltex Splitboard Skins

Never heard of Colltex before? Me neither. That’s probably because these babies are the Lamborghini of splitboarding skins, and lets be honest neither you or me will ever be able to afford a Lamborghini. Colltex offers high quality skins for a high price, but they are well worth it. With models from Extreme (best grip, excellent glide) to the Race (exponential glide), you have your pick of the nicest skins on the market today.

Once again unavailable to splitboarders, but maybe one day they will smarten up. This setup is quality, durable, but potentially hard to find due to the fact they are based out of Switzerland. If you want the best, this is the place to go.

Once upon a time, there were little options for splitboarders looking for climbing skins. Some went with Voile, one of the first companies to throw their lots in with the dark side, while others tampered with ski skins to create a less-than perfect setup. Many companies have followed in the path of Voile and the market has been flooded with options for the growing number of backcountry snowboarders. How can one know which is the best option?

7. Spark R&D Splitboard Skins

Spark R&D is the company synonymous with the sport and it is exciting to see them branch out from bindings with their own set of skins. As always, they find ways to make the sport more enjoyable and user-friendly. Tail clips that adjust without tools and G3 high friction material make these seriously grippy skins solid in all sorts of conditions.

Spark sold out of these skins blindingly quickly ($190.00), so that either means their name holds incredible value in the splitboard world or these skins are insanely well built. Either way, I don’t think you can go wrong.

Buy Now

8. Voile Splitboard Skins

The classic. Voile skins have proven to fit almost all brands of splitboard and hold up to massive amounts of abuse. Voile makes them extra-wide, so that users can tailor them to their individual boards. In the grand scheme of things, they don’t do anything spectacularly well, but they are less expensive and may last longer than the other choices. Their only drawback may be the lack of new technology that is advancing the performance of other brands of skins.

These are quality skins for a fair price ($149), if you’re just getting into splitting I would highly recommend them.

Buy Now

9. Black Diamond Skins

I want to start off by saying yes, I am insulted by Black Diamond neglecting splitboarders all over the world by only making skins for those other people we share the mountain with, but you can’t deny the product they put out each year. With both Nylon and Mohair skins for a slightly above market-average price, these things work well and seem to last forever.

A plus of the Black Diamond skin setup is their availability all over the US and Canada, meaning you can essentially find extra parts at any outdoor retailer and fix up your set up if need be. I was even able to jerry-rig my skin set up on my splitboard to make a tailclip with all their extra accessories—Thanks, BD. Now please make a set of black diamond splitboard skins, they will sell well!!

Buy Now

10. Gecko Splitboard Skins

I want the Gecko skins to be great. The idea of having skins that only stick to hard surfaces, and are easy to clean and pull apart sounds awesome. However, the reviews coming in talk about adhesive left on planks and a host of problems when they get too cold.

One day, we may all be using these types of skins but until they improve, I suggest sticking to traditional glue-based skins.

The post 10 Best Skins for Splitboarding appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

“Snurfing is skiing, skateboarding and surfing all rolled into one outrageous wintertime sport! Turn a snow covered slope into a snowtime party place. … Available in two models: The Standard and the Super Racing model.”

Snowboarding has come a long way from the faddish kid toy a couple crazies in Michigan called surfing on the snow (see our article “Evolution of Snowboarding”). The options for what you ride are near-endless, and if you’re just starting it’s like you’re buying a car full of technical meat peppered with bro-bra linguistics. I wouldn’t blame you for choosing a board based on how it looks, though I would, actually, because not knowing what you’re riding is almost guaranteed to ruin your winter, snowboarding experience, life, marriage, and role as a contributing member of society, though possibly not in that order.

Even if you’ve been riding for a while, unless you’ve wasted your time to live like us dirtbags you probably have some difficulty dissecting whether you want a pow directional or a variable camber twintip or, shoot, whether you want to make the move into splits.

Lucky for you, we’ve used our massive brains and several wasted lifetimes of experience as riders, geartesters and shop lackeys to bring you this little guide on how to pick a board.

CHAPTER 1: WHAT SIZE SNOWBOARD SHOULD I GET?

This is the most basic starting point: how big of a board do you want?

There’s a super simple answer: measure from the ground to your chin. Then measure from the ground to your nose. You want your board to be between those two.

There are some variations. To start off with, if you’re a beginner or have the build of a tweaked-out scarecrow, you’ll want something smaller. Same thing if all you want to do is learn how to ride park. Smaller boards are more responsive and easier to fling around the hill.

If you’re looking for a cruiser — i.e. something that dampens chatter and holds speed bombing groomers or floating through pow — go bigger. If you’re a meathead with legs like tree trunks who enjoys laying in a deep edge at high speed, bigger is definitely better. For example, my resort boardsare 159 to 161 while my split/big mountain sweetspot is between 163 and 165.

They also have all these fish shapes, freakishly short floaters with big ol’ fat noses but unless you’re in the market for a pow board or got a nice little cabin in Hokkaido or Wolf Creek, you’ll probably only get a handful of (glorious) days in even the longest of seasons.

CHAPTER 2: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT SNOWBOARD SHAPES?

Yeah, this is where it gets fun. The time when every board looks like a big hourglass is over. There are engineers who dedicate their whole lives to understanding the principles of angle and curve so let’s just stick with the broad strokes.

Burton TWC Pro Snowboard (Shaun White Pro Model)
Will you be riding switch? Is your goal to be the next Shaun White? Twintip is for you, and without too aggressive of a sidecut. Though an alternative is a nice little asym, like Japanese wunderkind Yuki Kadono rides [Ride Helix], to give you more power on your backside turns and kick your switch game up 5 or 6 notches.

Never Summer Big Gun
Do you think hardpack turns are for suckers? Will you gladly spend a day lapping the same run if it’s covered in the deep? Or booting for your turns? If your answer to either or all of those is yes, you want a fat, longer nose Powder shape (to float up, preventing scorps on deep days and absorbing chatter on the hardpack) with a shorter, less pronounced tail (usually stiffer).

Lib Technologies T.Rice Pro Blunt-Tip
Do you like riding All Mountain, and shredding a little bit of everything? A park lap every now and then but mostly you’re riding one direction, love groomers AND pow AND steeps AND sidehits? Then you’ll be going back to the old tried and true. Nose binding is set back but not overly so. There’s a side cut but it’s not excessive and the nose and tail are different but not noticeably to the naked eye.

CHAPTER 3: HOW ARE SNOWBOARDS BUILT?

This is where it gets confusing. Carbon laminate stringers and camber underfoot with reverse camber in the middle and rocker to the nose and tail; bamboo or ash or poplar, dampening wood underfoot and stiff tails and what?

Even more, a few years ago Lib-Tech introduced Magne-Traction and snowsports haven’t been the same. It’s kinda like a serrated edge that digs into ice so much better than your traditional edge. So it can be tricky if you’re not ready for hyper-responsive edges or if you’re lazy on your toes but if you’re gonna be ripping down East Coast ice, there’s nothing better.

For the rest of the build, here’s a quick rundown:

Part 1: Stiffness vs. softness

Super stiff, shorter tail is great for pow and big drops as it absorbs everything.

Stiff longer tail can be great for popping — think olleying in park or pipe. Usually, this will come with a comparably stiff nose for switch riding and olleying.

Soft nose, usually coming with a stiffer tail, is great for float and chatter absorption but nearly impossible to ride switch.

A softer nose AND tail combo lack power and pop but are really forgiving if, say, you overrotate your spin or don’t land your rail perfectly. Or haven’t yet mastered the art of the turn.

Part 2: Camber

Camber is an arch. The principle behind camber is that it matches the natural line of a turn so when you trench it, the whole edge will be making contact with the snow. For the longest time, it was really the only option for boards.

A camber board gives you better control but is also less forgiving.

Reverse camber, also known as rocker, is just as it sounds — instead of an arch it’s like a bowl. You sacrifice control, especially on high-speed hardpack rips, but you gain float and it’s more forgiving.

Variable camber mixes these. How can that benefit you?

For example, there are boards with reverse camber between the bindings, camber underfoot, and then rocker for the nose and tail. The reverse camber between the feet means it’ll float better in pow and be more forgiving in turns; the camber underfoot gives you more control than standard reverse camber because your feet will basically get that parabolic lock when going to toe or heel; and then the rocker on tip and tail keeps the nose and tail up, making them more forgiving while still providing super level bases. Combining cambers is where it starts getting tricky so I’ll just table it there.

Part 3: Materials

I had to mention materials but no, we’re not going to do an in-depth rundown of the different materials used to construct boards. Do you want to read an essay comparing the springiness of poplar cores vs. the stiffness of bamboo? How about carbon cores vs. carbon stringers?

Or carbon honeycomb vs. aluminum honeycomb? And there’s kevlar in some boards, and some boards are layers of a few types of wood while others are carved out of one piece of wood by some legendary samurai shaper using techniques passed down from Hatori Hanzo and since I’m not an engineer specializing in the properties of various types of woods and alloys I’ll probably get some scientific term wrong anyway, dammit.

What matters is the general guidelines:

-Get an extruded base if you’re just beginning and don’t want to worry about waxing or dinging your base (or riding all park); sintered once you’re ready for a faster and stronger base.

-Stay away from full cap construction (do they even do that anymore?) again, unless you want just a super low-maintenance board you’ll take out, like, 5 days a year for groomer cruising or plan on trashing on handrails.

-When you read tech specs of the board they explain why they used certain types of materials and how it affects the board so instead of focusing on what materials, look for words like “stiff,” “responsive,” “pop,” “forgiving,” “lighter” and so on, matching that to your riding style.

Read reviews to get real info and not what the brands just tell you. For example, that “springy” board might actually require legs of steel and perfect technique to olley, though if you’ve got that it’ll launch like 6 feet in the air.

CHAPTER 4: WHAT IS SPLITBOARDING ALL ABOUT?

that’s the age-old question. Splitboarding is the “Stranger Things” of snowboarding, an exciting reboot of something from the 80s sent to brighten the modern world. If you’re like us and you spend most of your time exploring outside the lines, this is a no-brainer: you need a split to ride any rowdy BC objectives unless you got that heli on dial. It’s also where the real innovation is happening. But here are a couple more reasons an average rider needs a splitboard:

1. Slackcountry isn’t always so slack. For example, you go far right out the gates in Steamboat, you’ll eventually end up booting back a long traverse. In deep snow that could be enough to ruin your day; but with a split you cruise back as easily as your skier friends.

2. Marital harmony. Okay, so you have trouble convincing the significant other to go on a snowboard trip because it’s just not fun: He/she sucks and you can’t keep lapping the green on your back edge for the next 6 hours. Cross-country is a great option for the non-alpine explorer. Pack your split and you have a great shredtool for the downhill but enjoy cross country adventures with the old ball and chain without putting on those weak skinny skis.

3. Dawn patrol. Wanna ensure you’re the first person in the corduroy? A wide swath of resorts allow you to skin uphill and it’s an awesome way to sweat out that hangover; not to mention there’s nothing like sunrise from atop a snowy peak before sampling the untracked.

4. You want to ride Alta. Breaking the law. Trespassing. Snowboarding isn’t allowed yet, but they’re technically skis so… It’s one of the few places where they still hate us, God Bless, and what fun is snowboarding if you don’t occasionally get to shake up the squares?

https://mtnweekly.com/sports/snowboarding/divide-and-conquer-2016-splitboards

5. You never know. Quality backcountry boards cost a chunk no matter how you shake it. Pay a couple hundred more for a split; unless you’re spinning double-corks, you’ll notice no difference between a split and a big mountain board. And if that dream chance comes up to get a guided trip with a local, you’re ready.

6. It keeps you young. No really. Lapping the resort all day leaves old dudes — these days that means 30s or later — with sore knees, swollen ankles. Injuries abound. When you split, you spend most of the day going uphill. While it cuts down the amount of vert you get, it ensures the turns you get will be the kinds your rheumy eyes flash to on your death bed, and it also saves your joints while getting you more jacked than a carton of Ripped Fuel.

EPILOGUE: CHEAT SHEET

So now you’re more confused? Fine, here’s us playing god and telling you what to buy:

Resort Rat: All-mountain board, direction but not overly, standard sidecut – measure to exactly halfway between your chin and your nose and buy it that size.

Park Rat: Twin-tip, little to no sidecut, if this is gonna be a rail board you should expect to go through at least 1 in a reasonably active season. Measure to the bottom of your chin, no bigger.

Slackcountry Rider: Stiff but light, longer nose directional, measure to between your mouth and your nose

Pow Crusher: Reverse camber, FAT soft nose with stiff tail (batwing and swallow tails especially fun), either super long or, if a fish shape, super short

Split: Apply one of the two directly above and buy it with a dramatic cut right down the gullet. Split bindings (and often skins) not included.

The post How to Pick a Snowboard appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Ryan Ariano.

Mountain Weekly News ~

The third component of a snowboarding setup, bindings are nevertheless of utmost importance. Learn How To Buy Snowboard Bindings below:

Buy your boots before you start to look at your binding options. You want as snug a fit as possible and this is hard to come by if you’re trying to match bindings to boots rather than the other way around. We tested a bunch of snowboard bindings this year. Click to see our snowboard binding reviews.

Another piece of advice: simple bindings are almost always the best bindings. Yours shouldn’t have any special features if they are not concerned with improving fit.

When you head to the shop, ask an experienced sales person to help you evaluate your Riding Style, Binding Type, Components, Fit and Binding Compatibility with your board. They can help you find just the right binding for what you need on the mountain based on these things.

Snowboard Bindings based on Riding Style

Bindings fall into three categories, and it’s important to match the flex to your ridding style. You’ll need to determine the amount of flex you want according to the flex of your boots. You don’t want to have stiff binding and a soft boot, or vice versa. So, bring in your boots if you want. You’ll get a tailored fit for your ride, if you match up the flex of your boots and bindings. Flex ratings range from 1-10, 1 being the softest, and 10 the stiffest. (1-2, is soft, 3-5 is medium, 6-8 is stiff, and 9-10 is very stiff) and ratings vary.

Your riding style may be park, freestyle, all-mountain, or free ride and each style has different flex needs. Riders who spend most of their time in the park throwing down tricks, may want bindings with a softer flex so there’s softer landings, better tweak, and room for error. All-mountain riders typically ride powder, groomed runs and may hit the park, so they’ll usually want a medium flex. Freeride boarders have a need for speed so a stiffer flex offers better response for going big.

Types of Bindings

There’s really just two categories here: Strap-In bindings, and Rear-Entry bindings.

Strap-In Bindings have two straps. One that goes across the toe, and one across the ankle. They are supportive, and adjust easily. Suitable for all riding styles, they simply take a little bit of time to adjust on the mountain. These work great, but you might find that gloves get in the way of easy adjustment, and frigid fingers are too stiff to strap them to your feet. But if you don’t mind taking a bit of time to get strapped in, these work well, and are reliable.

Rear-Entry Bindings are made for a quick and easy entry. With a high back that just drops down for you to step into the binding, they make it easy to get up on your board fast. No need to holler “Hold up!” With these, you’ll be waiting on your friends. They are super comfortable and supportive. And if you are stoked on the mountain and want to get as many runs in before the day is out, these will help you keep up the pace. No need to strap up every time, just adjust them once and slip your boot in the back.

How Snowboard Bindings Should Fit

Different bindings have different parts. Getting to know how each part will support your riding style can help you decide which binding works best for you. There’s toe cap straps, traditional toe straps, hybrid toe straps, ankle straps, and a single piece that straps you in, depending on the type you choose. Highbacks, and baseplates are also important to a good fit, and a great response on the mountain.

Snowboard bindings come in just three sizes, Small, Medium, and Large. If you don’t bring your boots in with you, check the manufacture’s binding size chart and ask a sales person if that brand tends to run large, or small.

Bindings and boards all have different options when it comes to mountain. Since there are a variety of hole patterns, you’ll need to get the right set for the board you have. For example: Burton boards feature the Channel system, while others use a simple 2 x 4 and 4 X 4 disc pattern, or 3D pattern.

The post How To Buy Snowboard Bindings appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Brittany Artwohl.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Buying a pair of boots can be very overwhelming. This is because you can have an amazing set up, but if the boots are lacking, you can’t utilize any of it fully. A pair of quality, properly fitted boots is essential to having a fun day on the hill. With these tips we will dial you in on snowboard boot fitting and how to buy snowboard boots for the season.

1. Beginners almost always have an easier time picking out boots than their actual board. This is because most people have a good idea of their foot size.

2. It’s always wise to invest more time in boot shopping than in snowboard shopping.  You can probably get away with a less-than-stellar snowboard, but your feet will be screaming in pain and discomfort if you don’t opt for a pair of high-quality boots.

3. Choose function over looks, this can be hard when looking at a wall, or web page, full of stylish looking boots.

Buying a good pair of boots is important, because it is one component of essential snowboarding gear that can last many seasons, and even become worn in and more comfortable the more you shred.

How to Choose A Snowboard Boot?

Popular Men’s Snowboard Boots

Salomon Malamute ($379.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/122794/salomon-malamute-snowboard-boots-mens

Burton Ruler ($259.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/124917/burton-ruler-snowboard-boots-mens-20172018

Burton Driver X ($429.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/123635/burton-driver-x-snowboard-boots-mens-20172018

K2 Maysis  ($399.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/122825/k2-maysis-ltd-snowboard-boots-mens-20172018

As humans naturally we all have individual tastes and preferences, we also all have different foot length to width ratio, toe (and hopefully not) toenail length, and so on. Therefore, it’s good to look into reviews of boots and what people are saying about them, and if you are in a shop it’s good to listen to what the employee helping you out has to say.

However If you have the opportunity, do not be shy to strap both boots your examining, and really make sure they feel comfortable. Don’t just sit there on the bench nodding your head because you want to get the anxiety of buying boots over with and pretend they feel good… Jump up, walk, run around, imagine yourself riding all day in them.

Popular Women’s Snowboard Boots

Burton Felix BOA ($349.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/123541/burton-felix-boa-snowboard-boots-womens-20172018

Salomon IVY BOA ($269.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/123218/salomon-ivy-boa-snowboard-boots-womens

ThirtyTwo Lashed ($269.95)
https://www.rei.com/product/122207/thirtytwo-lashed-double-boa-snowboard-boots-womens-20172018

It is important that you don’t buy boots that are small for your feet and too tight, if anything, you want to buy a pair where your toes have a little wiggle room. Boots that are too tight on the foot have the ability to restrict circulation, so no matter how insulated or nice the boots are, your feet will still get cold on the mountain, and cold feet on the mountain is an easy distraction and buzz kill to a day.

You know your boots may be too tight if you notice a few of the following signs; your toes do not have enough room to move around and wiggle, your toes rub up against the front of the boot, or you just can’t get your foot into the boot altogether (duh). Brand names and fashionable designs are great but remember, it’s most important that you find a properly fitted boot. Many boots have liners that can be molded to your feet, if presented with this option at your shop, take them up on it. If not try to do it yourself at home.

When selecting a boot you have to choose what kind of lacing system will meet your needs in both riding and comfort ability. Most boots have lacing on both the inner liner and the outer boot. There are traditional boot lacing systems, quick draw, Boa boots (replaces laces with a steel cable tightened by a twisting dial). Once again, when factoring in these options amongst all others, keep comfort in mind!

This year the selection of  snowboarding boots has continued to push the envelope in the style department. Of course there have been advancements in comfort, and weight, all different factors that people in the industry are always working to improve upon, but there is no denying that snowboarding boots are becoming more and more fashionable..

If Buying Boots at a Snowboard Shop

1. Keep comfort and warmth in mind while trying on as many pairs as you need to.
2. While doing this, make sure to get up and walk around in your boots. Better yet, strap in on your new snowboard and jump around a little.
3. You want a boot that doesn’t have any serious pressure points or heel lift.

Doing your research on snowboard boot reviews will make your day’s on the mountain much more fun.

The post How to Buy Snowboard Boots appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Nick Vogt.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Blown ratchets, snapped ladder straps, the clunky inefficiency of having soft boot bindings banging around as I toured uphill. I was tired of the weight, inadequacy and sloppiness of a soft boot touring setup. Working as a splitboard guide I was disgruntled with the setup, switchovers took too long, kicking steps hurt my delicate toes, and my skiing guests always being clicked in and ready to go while I fumbled with traditional bindings pushed me over the edge.

I took the plunge and bought myself a pair of Dynafit Neo AT Boots, the TLT’s commonly considered as the best splitboard boots were just too damn narrow for my landbeast feet. Next step was the Spark R&D Dynafit Adapter Plates, the thingers you need to attach Dynafit Toe Pieces and your heel risers to a splitboard. Then came the bindings, being a broke ski guide, the Phantoms, while considered the apex of hardboot split technology,  were too much money for me, leaving one option. The Spark R&D Dyno DH Bindings were affordable and lightweight. The final step was ordering canted pucks so my ankles wouldn’t snap off, hard boots are….hard, so a couple degrees of canting was rather pleasant.

800$ ski boots are shiny…shiny and new. But they suck at snowboarding. To fix this issue I took desperate measures. One blowtorch, one file, one exacto knife and one Dremel tool. The locked in ski mode was too tight, not enough movement forward and backwards to feel like decent snowboard boots. So the Dremel tool and file came in, cutting out the opening in the heel block to be wide open, giving me plenty of movement.

Next step was lateral movement…side to side wobble for the layman. The boots were too stiff sideways, so the blowtorch and exacto knife were used to cut out chunks of the upper cuff…

Mods completed, several boot punches finished to allow my giant wide feet to remain in the boots without wishing for death after a day, the setup was ready. First thoughts, wow! The transitions were fast, like crazy fast. Energy transfer, carving and riding in tight trees was incredible, every movement was instantaneously transferred into the board. Downsides? Well, you are wearing ski boots…so that sucks. And tight plastic wrapped around your footies is decidedly awful when its cold, intuition liners help with that problem. But the snowboarding is incredible. The downhill split skiing is also massively better, makes you think you can almost actually ski. And your feet stay dry all day, unless you have really gross sweaty feet.

Moral of the story? If you slackcountry tour the hardboot setup isn’t for you, stick with the comfy softboots. If you tour a lot however, the hardboot setup is amazing. Lighter, more efficient pivot point for your foot, better edge control. Your snowboarder friends will think you’re weird, your skier friends will think you’re weird. If you can handle the ambiguous nature of being a ski boot wearing, pole using splitboarder, hardboots are amazing!

Nate Fochler
Level 2 Canadian Ski Guide Association
Lead Guide for Selkirk Snowcat Skiing, Eagle Pass Heliskiing

The post So You Wanna be a Hardboot Splitboarder? appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Nathan Fochler.

Mountain Weekly News ~

DENVER, CO – Are you trying to find pictures of 2019 snowboards, wondering what that new model is going to look like? I spent a few days on the Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show floor taking photos of *just about every single new snowboard I could find on display. Below you can check out photos of some of the most progressive snowboard shapes coming to the market for next winter.

2019 Lib Tech Snowboards

2019 GNU Snowboards

2019 Nidecker Snowboards

2019 Yes Snowboards

2019 Ride Snowboards

2019 Prior Snowboards

2019 Nitro Snowboards

2019 Jones Snowboards

2019 Salomon Snowboards

2019 Slash Snowboards

2019 Marhar Snowboards

Rome 2019 Snowboards

2019 Nitro Snowboards

2019 Coalition Snowboards

2019 Chronic Snowboards

2019 Arbor Snowboards

2019 Never Summer Snowboards

2019 Capita Snowboards

2019 Weston Snowboards

2019 Deviation Snowboards

Be sure to signup for our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest snowboard, splitboard gear, outdoor news and more.

The post 2019 Snowboard Previews appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

DENVER, CO – Mountain Weekly News is proud to have awarded our annual Editor’s Choice Awards on the show floor of the annual Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show formally known as SIA.  This is some of the hottest 2019 snowboard gear coming to the market for the 2018/19 season.

The Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show is an exciting event that brings together manufacturers, retailers and media to preview all the latest winter snow sports gear coming to the market for the 2019 snowboard / ski season.

The five award categories were; Best Splitboard, Best Snowboard, Best Splitboard Binding, Best Snowboard Boot, Best Outerwear.

Scroll down to find out who took home the prize for best of Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show 2018. This is the 2019 snowboard gear I’m standing behind. Odds are you’ll enjoy it too..

Best Splitboard

Jones Mind Expander Splitboard

Best Snowboard

Never Summer Maverix Snowboard

Best Snowboard Boots

Vans Pat Moore Infuse Snowboard Boot

Best Splitboard Bindings

Spark R&D Arc Pro Splitboard Binding

Best Outerwear

The North Face Purist Jacket

The post Outdoor Retailer 2018 Editor’s Choice Awards appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Pyeongchang,  South Korea – TEAM USA F*CK YEAH.  Huge congratulations goes out to the entire United States Olympic Snowboard Team including gold medal winners, Shaun White, Chloe Kim, Red Gerard and Jamie Anderson for sweeping the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics Snowboard Half-Pipe and Slopestyle events.

The first Winter Olympics Gold Medal for the United States, went to 17 year old Red Gerarad for taking 1st place in the Men’s Olympic Slopestyle competition.

Watch Red’s Run

Highlight from Red’s run included a stylish front side air over the hitching post rail feature and of course the kids final 1440 on the jumps.

The second Olympic Gold Medal for the United States went to Jamie Anderson for Women’s Olympic Slopestyle who nailed the top rail section of the Slopestyle course with ease before stomping a lofty backside 540 on her first hit and a front-side 720 to finish on the final jump.

Watch Jamie’s Run

Then another 17 year old stepped up to the plate, Chloe Kim.  Kim’s parents were originally from South Korea so this homecoming of sorts must have been special as Kim delivered to the South Korean crowd.   Her back to back 1080’s easily put her atop the podium for the win.

Watch Chloe’s Run

Up next was the main event, the one everyone has been waiting for.  Shaun White’s Olympic Half-Pipe run.

For some reason people within the snowboard industry think it’s “cool” to hate on Shaun White.  Silly Ego’s let it go. The kid is the best half pipe rider we have ever seen and this ain’t new. Shaun, in case anyone wasn’t paying attention won the Gold Medal in the first Olympic Half-Pipe competition in 2006 by outscoring the competition including silver medalist for the United States Danny Kass.

Perhaps this only added to the Shaun White Hato-rade by beating a “cool” guy aka Danny Kass.  Where is that guy now anyways?  Is he still even snowboarding…

Shaun White is the best half-pipe rider we have ever seen which was clearly on display during his final run in the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Watch Shaun’s Run

The dedication, and commitment to snowboarding to be able to compete at this level can not be taken away from Shaun or any of these athletes ever.

Does Shaun White receive favorable scores from time to time.  You bet, but again that doesn’t take away form the above. Without Shaun White it’s easy to say a lot of snowboard companies would not been in business.  Just ask a random person in Indiana to name a snowboarder, most likely he has red hair.

Next time you decide to be “cool” among your peers or on the online message boards throwing a United States Olympic Medalist under the bus, one that skateboards, snowboards and surfs better than you ever will?  Well good luck hating on life.  It’s a lot more fun to celebrate.

Looking forward to seeing Shaun in the 2022 Winter Games.

The post United States Snowboarders Sweep Olympic Snowboard Gold Medals in Half-Pipe & Slopestyle appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

JACKSON, WYO – Word on the street is there is about to be a major shakeup in the snowboard feature film world, especially in regards to Brain Farm Cinema and Red Bull.

Rumor has it that Red Bull audited Jackson, WY-based Brain Farm Cinemas. Rut row the story goes.

Apparently, this story gets even better. Was one of the higher-ups at Brain Farm flying his family around, vacationing via private jets?  To places like London or Dubai.

Brain Farm spent 723 days filming The Fourth Phase which came at hefty cost to Red Bull. Sure the movies cool and all but come on boys, it’s just snowboarding.

How Much Do Helicopters cost to rent?

Helicopter tach hour meters are known to run credit card bill into debt quickly. Last time I was in Haines, Alaska the going rate was around $4,000 an hour for the heli. In Telluride, Helitrax Heli-Skiing offers filming rates at $5200 an hour with a 2-hour minimum.

With the numbers above you can begin to see how a project like this can get expensive quickly. Now I don’t believe Brain Farm has their own Heli, odds are the ones you see in the videos are actually just wrapped in a giant sticker. With that comes another added cost.

When you combine the heli cost mentioned alone with the big trucks, snowmobiles, and all the other toys cameras and gear this crew is routinely rolling around town with, one starts to wonder just how much money can be generated from a snowboard movie anyways? Is it enough to pay for these guys to film for 723…

Where Can I Find Brain Farm Movies Online?

Good luck finding their videos online, as now they look to all be the property of Red Bull Media House. Is Brain Farm Shutting Down after the Fourth Phase? Looks like it –

Luckily you can watch Art of Flight for free thanks to Red Bull.

Art of Flight Stream Free

https://www.redbull.com/int-en/tv/video/AP-1M5XZ7B8D2111/the-art-of-flight

Order That’s It That’s

https://www.amazon.com/Art-Flight-Travis-Rice/dp/B00WA5UXMS

Keep in mind this is my blog before you start sending me death threats and getting your panties all up in a bunch. It’s just snowboarding after all. And the truth, well sometimes it hurts.

The Brain Fam website is now down.

The post What Happened to Brain Farm? Did Red Bull Sell The Fourth Phase appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

The Mountain Weekly News 2019 Splitboard Test took place over 3 months during the winter of 2017/18. With the majority of time spent touring and riding in the backcountry. Find out which brands made the cut for best splitboard of the year in our splitboard buyers guide below.

Thanks to an epic snow year I had the pleasure of testing all these splitboards in deep powder. Isn’t that what splitboarding’s all about, searching out untracked snow and getting away from the masses?

Best Splitboards

1. Burton Family Tree Flight Attendant X Splitboard ($1,499)

The best splitboard money can buy comes from Burton Snowboards. The Burton Family Tree Mystery FA X Splitboard offered the most fun out of all the splitboard’s I tested last winter. Most likely this was due in part to the splitboard’s weight, Burton uses a Dragonfly core giving the splitboard considerable weight reduction. Essentially The Dragonfly places thicker wood in high impact areas and thinner wood in places that don’t need it as much.

Why is less weight important? We spend 75% of the day touring, so being fatigued when you’re going to strap in won’t help you any on the way downhill. The Burton Family Tree Flight Attendant X Splitboard, when paired with the new Spark R&D Arc Pro Bindings, is possibly the lightest soft boot setup available on the market.  This direction camber splitboard is extremely nimble, poppy and quick. [Purchase: $1,499]

2. TahoeLab Directional Splitboard – ($849)

TahoeLab is a smaller under-the-radar, for now, splitboard, snowboard and ski manufacturer based in Lake Tahoe, California.  I had a chance to test the TahoeLab Directional Splitboard last winter and really only had good things to say about the board. With a directional camber profile and early rise tip and tail, the Directional Splitboard offers great stability and float all in one.

The Directional Splitboard is not as lightweight as the Burton Flight Attendant X, but it sure comes close. TahoeLabs figured out how to wrap sheets of carbon around the wood core for their Phantom layup.  If you like to go fast this splitboard is for you. TahoeLab Splitboard Review [Purchase: $849]

3. CAPITA Neo Slasher Splitboard – ($749)

CAPITA has a splitboard called the Neo Slasher which simply rips going downhill, especially when paired with the Union Expedition Bindings. So what makes this splitboard stand out? It’s ability to crush the entire mountains, thanks in part to the addition of traditional positive camber underfoot and flat camber in the rear. Plus reverse camber where you need it most, at the tip and tail.

If you spent time snowboarding when camber was a thing back in the 90’s Capita’s Neo Slasher will offer a very familiar, responsive feel. The CAPITA Neo Slasher Splitboard has tons of pop, great durability, and a sintered base. CAPITA snowboards are built by hand at their Mothership factory in Austria. Capita Neo Slasher Splitboard Review [Purchase: $749]

4. Rome Whiteroom Splitboard – ($679)

Rome made a splitboard for normal people. Basically, the Rome Whiteroom Splitboard is the sort of board you buy if you go splitboard up your local ski hill before work.   Built off the Powder S profile with camber from the tail up through the midsection and rocker at the tip, this blend works really well when it comes to splitboard profiles. The Whiteroom Splitboard performs incredibly on the way down and works well on the way up.

Rome’s Whiteroom Splitboard is the most affordable splitboard on this list. With the lower price does come a little sacrifice in terms of durability. If you’re someone that splitboards less than 10 days a year this is a great board to consider. Rome Whiteroom Splitboard Review [Purchase: $679]

5. Arbor Bryan Iguchi Pro Splitboard – ($789)

Camber, hmm that seems to a be a trend in all the boards above including this one from Arbor Snowboards. The Arbor Bryan Iguchi Pro Splitboard was designed by Bryan Iguchi who likes camber. And for good reasons, camber is powerful and reliable. The 2019 Arbor Bryan Iguchi Splitboard comes in a Med-Stiff Flex which seems to be a little damper and more responsive than the solid version of this board I tested a few years back.

This splitboard uses a Grip Tech sidecut which offers incredible edge hold in shitty snow.  Thanks to tip and tail fenders the Bryan Icghuci Pro Splitboard offers a more forgiving catch-free ride. Arbor Bryan Iguci Pro Splitboard Review [Purchase: $789]

6. Furberg Freeride Splitboard

Furberg is back on the list of the best splitboards of the years with their updated Freeride Split. One of the most noticeable changes to the 2019 splitboard is Furberg’s use of an Isosport Polyamide topsheet.   When it comes to splitboarding on hard snow or even wind buffed the  Freeride Split delivers confidence with a shorter turning radius than in years past.  The Freeride Split is built with low camber underfoot and rocker at the tip and tail of the board.

The Freeride split is able to cut through the snow with ease, almost too easy at times.  If you find yourself riding in places with heavier wetter, even firmer snow this version of the Furberg Freeride Split is for you. Furberg Freeride Split Review [Purchase: $849]

7. Lib Tech Split BRD – ($849)

Most likely as a splitboarder you have heard some fuss about the new Lib Tech Splitboard.  The 2019 Lib Tech Split BRD was designed with touring in mind.  Finally, Lib Tech started to pay attention to splitboarders needs and it shows in the profile of this board. This Camber-dominate splitboard still has a little bit of rocker between the feet, it’s a Lib after all.  However, the rocker is barely noticeable on the skin track if at all.

Where the real fun with this boards begins is going downhill.  With a Polina Wood core, the 2019 Lib Tech Split BRD offers a very lively, snappy ride on the descent. Toss in a high end Sintered Base and this board flies down the mountain, and won’t suck up wax as fast as other boards on the market. [Purchase: $849]

8. Jones Mountain Twin Splitboard – ($779)

Ahh CamRock, Jones Snowboards gets it clearly with a guy like Jeremy Jones behind the scenes. The 2019 Jones Mountain Twin Splitboard offers camber in the middle of the board, underfoot and between the bindings with a rockered tip and tail.  This blend allows for great camber pop and edge hold and a ton of freestyle fun.  For years the Jones Mountain Twin was always my go-to solid board.

If you like to send kickers in the backcountry, this board is for you. It’s one of the few splitboards you can actually ride inbounds and have a blast on too. Would pair great with the new Karakoram Prime Connect Splitboard Bindings. With Bamboo stringers and a wood core, this splitboard can really absorb chatter on the descent.  Last but not least the Jones Mountain Twin Split comes with a Quick Tension Tail notch. This system allows Jones Pomoca Skins to attach through the top sheet essentially making your skins stay in place throughout the day. [Purchase: $779]

9. Weston Range Splitboard – ($849)

Weston Snowboards based in Colorado made a board for one of their team riders.  If you lived in Colorado you might be familiar with the brand; for everyone else, take note: These are some great splitboards.  I had a chance to test the Weston Range Splitboard which was designed by snowboarder Joe Otremba. Like just about every other board on this list, the 2019 Weston Range Splitboard is built with camber underfoot and rocker at the tip and tail.

This directional twin shape allows you to really throw down in the backcountry, another great splitboard that won’t sacrifice your freestyle abilities on the way downhill. The Range is a little heavier than other boards we tested, but with that comes added durability in the Polamine top sheet. [Purchase: $849]

10. Arbor Coda Splitboard – ($739)

A Rockered splitboard made the list.  And the cat’s out of the bag here, I freaking love this board and always have.  The 2019 Arbor Coda Splitboard is a blast going downhill.  With Arbor’s System Rocker you literally float down the mountain with ease for the ultimate surf-inspired session. The board is similar to the old Abacus that we loved and not much has changed, they got it dialed with this board.

Everything here works however, touring can be a pain in the ass depending on conditions with the Parabolic Rocker.  You might think your skins are failing, perhaps they are.  Arbor is seeing the trend of camber for splitboarding, so they went and shaved down the amount of rocker in the tail of the Coda Splitboard. This allows the board to stay against the snow surface while touring more than in years past. [Purchase: $739]

All the splitboards that made the list of best splitboards for 2019 are a sure bet.  I tested a bunch of boards that did not make the cut as well. If you have any questions about these splitboards or others on the market please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact me.

For anyone that plans to be in the Tetons this winter, look me and well go for a tour. Most of these boards are currently in the office and are available for demo.

Past Winners 2017/18

Olive Numbchuck Splitboard – ($985)

Olive, a Canadian splitboard,  snowboard and skateboard manufacturer based in Alberta, Canada has once again made the list of the best splitboards of the year. In fact, one of the most epic days of the season came while riding the Olive Numchuck Splitboard. What sets Olive splitboards apart from every other board on this list is the construction. The Numchuck’s tips and tail are reinforced with Aluminum throwing star inserts, which help to protect the tip and tail when touring and riding off-piste.

This hand-built board is designed for splitboarders looking for a stiff ride and ultimate control in big mountain terrain. The Numchuck is a rockered splitboard with camber underfoot and a big ole nose that offers insane float. This splitboard may feel a bit heavier than other splits you have ridden in the past because, Olive uses a specially formulated urethane to encapsulate the core from tip to tail, creating overall bomber construction throughout the board. This split is available in size 157 and 162. Olive Numbchuck Splitboard Review

Arbor Coda Splitboard – ($699)

New on the list for best splitboards of the year is the Arbor Coda. The Coda Splitboard, in particular, has been my personal go-to favorite for the past few seasons. The Arbor Coda Split is the most fun, surfy splitboard on the market. Hands down. Arbor’s Coda Splitboard is built around the System Rocker platform with added Grip Tech sidecut contact points. You can take this splitboard anywhere and do just about anything with it. In fact, the Coda Splitboard most likely will ride as good if not better than your favorite resort board.

Like to hit jumps in the backcountry? If so the Arbor Coda Splitboard is for you. The Coda Split comes with reinforced stainless steel tips and tail for added durability. Available in sizes 158, 161 and 164. Arbor Coda Splitboard Review

Lib Tech T. Rice Goldmember Splitboard – ($969)

Lib Tech’s another brand that has been making handmade snowboards, splitboards and even surfboards in Washington state for decades. Returning to the list of best splitboard of the year for 2017/18 is the Lib Tech T. Rice Goldmember directional twin swallow tail Splitboard. This board is the sharpest board on this list and by that I mean the Magne-Traction edges will cut you if you don’t detune them. Along with 7 sharp contact points, the Goldmember Splitboard comes with a pointed nose and low swing weight, making this board ride more like a traditional snowboard than a splitboard. If you like to send jumps in the backcountry while touring and have an affinity for spinning, you will love this board.

The Gold Member splitboard runs a C2X rocker/camber hybrid profile that offers a medium-to-stiffer flex with more camber than rocker throughout the board. Along with being a lightweight ripping splitboard, the Lib Tech Gold Member utilizes Firepower construction which puts balsa, aspen, basalt and birch along with a whole bunch of other natural materials throughout the board. This is one of the more lively splitboards ever built. Available in sizes 159 and 163. Lib Tech R. Rice Goldmember Splitboard Review

OZ Snowboards OZsym Splitboard – ($899)

Back for the second year in a row is Oz Snowboards based in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Hands down the OZsym Splitboard had the cleanest construction of any of the boards we put underfoot. And by cleanest I mean everything was made specifically to be a splitboard as opposed to a snowboard company trying to figure out how to make a splitboard. When in ride mode, the board really sealed together nicely, especially with the added contact point between the feet. Whats wild is Oz Snowboards are just using the regular old Voile clamps on this split yet this board seals up incredibly tight thanks to the patented SplitLock tech and another industry innovation from Oz Snowboards, a beveled sidecut.

When it comes to going downhill this board f*cking rips. The OZsym is an asymmetric splitboard with camber between the feet and rockered tip and tail. The OZsym Split uses Carbon Fiber construction and wooden stringers running throughout the entire length of the board. This board truly excelled in deep powder, had great edge hold on windblown pow and was a breeze to tour on. The OZsym Splitboard is available in sizes 154, 157, 162 and 165

Never Summer Swift Splitboard – ($999)

Never Summer has been manufacturing handmade snowboards in Denver, CO for over 25 years offering some of the most durable & unique boards on the market. New for 2017/18 is the Never Summer Swift Splitboard featuring a 3/4″ tapered design (the most in the Shaper Series). Along with an early rise nose, the Swift adds a feature and a trend we’re starting to see on a bunch of boards as of late, especially powder shapes, the bat tail, better known as a swallowtail.

Clearly, with the Swift’s shape, this splitboard can eat powder for breakfast. Here’s what Gags at Never Summer had to say about the Swift:

“It’s a snowflake crushing machine”

When it comes to surfing big powder days the Swift Splitboard can move buckets of snow. Whats interesting though is the board performs well in choppy, chunder snow too, and even hardpack thanks to the Vario Power Grip sidecut’s amazing edge hold. The only hiccup with this board comes when touring as the shape isn’t flat under foot; instead, it’s a pretty aggressive profile. If you can find a pair of skins that fit right and adjust the way you tour just a bit, the Never Summer Swift Splitboard will surely lead you to deep untracked turns. Available in sizes 157, 162 and 167. Never Summer Swift Splitboard Review

Signal Snowboards Splitboard – ($599)

For the first time, Signal Snowboards has entered into the splitboard world, most likely a result of signing John Jackson. Hand-built in Huntington Beach, CA, Signal Snowboards has done things entirely different from the rest of the industry. New for 2017/18 is the Signal Split, a directional twin that offers up a good bit of float and a ton of freestyle pop.

This cambered splitboard is snappy thanks to the use of poplar and yet super stiff with a fiberglass carbon top sheet. The one thing to keep in mind is the Signal Split is a full cambered board. We used to joke and call this Tomahawk tech. If you’ve been riding rockered boards you’ll want to find your edges again, carefully. The weight is a little on the heavy side but the durability will last with the ABS sidewalls. Heading to AK and planning on sending big lines? This is the sort cambered splitboard you might want underfoot. Here’s what stands out about Signal and one of the reasons this board made the list of the best splitboards of the year: Signal Snowboards is offering a subscription service that you can signup for to get the Signal Splitboard for only $55 a month. Or you can just purchase the board outright. Signal Splitboard Review.

Rossignol Sushi Splitboard – ($549)

The funkiest shape on the list of the best splitboards of the year goes to Rossignol for the Sushi Splitboard. The Sushi split is the brainchild of Xavier de la Rue. Do we need to say anymore? This powder-eating machine is just that. If you ever road a Fish snowboard you are really going to dig this shape. With a big ole nose and slight taper, this board will always keep you afloat. It’s got a short tail which is surprisingly responsive for this sort of shape.

The Rossignol Sushi is a rockered splitboard with camber underfoot. The board is a bit on the wide side yet can still suck up bumps with ease thanks to rubber inlaid against the edges. The only hiccup comes when trying to stay in skinny skin tracks; otherwise, this board is a blast and not just on powder days. Thanks to the use of Magne-Traction the Sushi can hold it’s own on icy hard packed snow too. The Rossignol Sushi is available in one size a 154. Rossignol Sushi Splitboard Review

Jones Explorer Splitboard – ($699)

Without Jeremy Jones, the brainchild behind Jones Snowboards, most of us, myself included, would’ve never been exposed to splitboarding. Jeremy, as of late, has put his carbon polluting heli days in the backseat in trade for leg power. And with that Jones Snowboards was born. The Jones Explorer Splitboard is a fun and easy-to-control board that offers a camber profile underfoot and a long effective edge. Toss in a rockered tip and tail and this splitboard does what it was built for, surf deep powder snow.

The Jones Explorer is a directional splitboard with a slight setback stance. If you’re someone that likes to drop off rocks, cliffs, and butter in the backcountry, you will enjoy the freestyle feel with a 6 out 10 flex rating. The Jones Explorer is available in sizes 152, 156, 158W, 159, 161W, 162 and 164W. It’s the most affordable entry-level splitboard in the Jones Snowboards line. Jones Explorer Splitboard Review

Weston Big Chief Splitboard – ($899)

Weston Snowboards, based in Minturn, Colorado, has been getting better and better each season, most likely this has to do with their R&D spot (Meadow Mountain) being located literally right out their backdoor. The Weston Big Chief Splitboard has been winning numerous awards of the year, including our 2017 SIA Editor’s Choice Award, and here’s why: Like any real big mountain board, The Big Chief is a directional splitboard built for speed. That just may surprise you with how malleable it rides with the rocker-camber-rocker profile.

The Big Chief splitboard comes with a healthy dose of bamboo, poplar and paulownia wood for a nice green feel. Available in sizes 157, 164 and 168. Weston Big Chief Splitboard Review

Coldsmoke Voodoo Splitboard – ($850)

Rounding out the list of the best splitboards of the year is another smaller Colorado-based company, Coldsmoke Splitboards. Based in Gunnison, Colorado, these guys have the legendary terrain around Crested Butte and the Elk Mountains to access for R&D. And it shows in this splitboard, that’s most likely been flying under your radar, until now. With increased camber under the backfoot the Coldsmoke Voodoo split manages to edge nicely on firm snow, transitioning smooth and concisely from edge to edge. The edge hold was especially apparent while making turns in steep terrain. When it comes to riding powder the rockered tip and tail on the Voodoo splitboard keeps the board floating on the snow regardless of how deep it is.

Cold Smoke is a small production company that takes the time to build each and every board by hand. The Voodoo comes with a plain black sintered base which goes super fast, and when combines with a wood core, the board remains lightweight. In fact, it’s two-thirds of a pound lighter than the original model. Available in sizes 154, 158 and 163. Coldsmoke Voodoo Splitboard Review

Venture Paragon Splitboard – ($899)

Another brand making handmade snowboards and splitboards in the state of Colorado is Venture Snowboards, based in Silverton. What makes Venture snowboards stand out from the competition is where these boards are designed and built to be ridden, in gnarly big mountain terrain. The Paragon Split is a rockered splitboard with a 6 out of 11 on the flex meter, which means the board is a lot softer and more forgiving than past Venture boards.

Venture uses Aspen wood in the Paragon core, which was sourced less than 100 miles from their factory. And their entire operation is based on wind power if you’re wanting a green split. The Paragon Splitboard is a directional shape with a slight setback stance so clearly, it rips in powder but you can still ride switch and easily throw down off cliffs and backcountry booters. The construction is bomber, as always from Venture, complete with P-Tex sidewalls & carbon steel edges. If you own a Venture snowboard, you know the deal: This thing’s going to last a while. Available in 156, 157, 160, 161, 165, 166, 170. Venture Paragon Splitboard Review

The post Top Splitboards for 2019 appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

They say no two snowflakes are alike. The same could be said for snowboards. Each one is unique, but they all pack the power to transform every one of those pristine snowflakes into a decimated shell of its former self. It’s all just a matter of how you’re going to do it. Are you going to charge the steeps? Punish the park? Thrash the groomers? However you choose to annihilate the snow, there is perfect plank for you to get it done. Fortunately, we have gathered the best snowboards of the season so you can take your pick of these dynomite decks.

Best Snowboards

1. Lib Tech T.Rice Orca Snowboard – ($599)

Become the pride of your pod with the T. Rice Orca Snowboard from the mad minds at Lib Tech. Travis designed this magnificent creature to be his Jackson Hole partner in crime, so you know it’s going to get out there and rage with you wherever you ride. The Orca is at its finest when you set it free in a sea of snow as deep as the Mariana Trench, but it thrives all over the mountain. This directional board is certainly on the stiff side, which keeps it stable at high speeds, and boy does it like to go. It accelerates like there’s blood in the water and it’s aggressive enough to bring down your own personal great white whale of a line. Featuring a bit of rocker between the feet and serious camber underfoot, the nose is lifted for that pow float, but there is a considerable amount of effective edge that keeps it nimble toe-to-heal on groomers and through chunder. Compact and a bit on the wide side, the T. Rice Orca lets you dive in with confidence to prey upon your terrain of choice. [Purchase: $599]

2. Never Summer Chairman Snowboard – ($599)

You better call ahead to schedule your appointment this winter with the Never Summer Chairman Snowboard. This freeride favorite has elected to go all in on stability, carving, and speed. A maximized effective edge and ramped up dampening gives you a feeling of ultimate control. Lay down the deepest carves to truly experience what the Chairman is capable of unloading. Now with a Ripsaw profile to complete its résumé as an absolute boss anywhere it roams, from chutes to trees, this tapered directional, firm board has a true passion for technical expertise. We heart the Never Summer 3-year warranty as they truly stand behind their boards in an industry where just 365 days is the standard. Plus, you get that carbonium topsheet that enhances traction and eliminates the need for a goofy stomp pad. Become the CEO of sick lines with the Chairman from Never Summer. [Purchase: $599]

3. Yes. Pick Your Line Snowboard – ($599)

Summit to suds, the Yes. Pick Your Line Snowboard decimates everything in its path. The PYL is a freeride focused board that’s really more of a 2-in-1 as it has the profile to float powder AND lay down the most aggressive turns. The advanced tech loaded into this rip stick includes a weightless core that packs stability and pop with a mid/strong flex. Riders dropping a deep carve won’t come up empty as the PYL powers through every turn with energy to spare. Speed, pop, and responsiveness push at the seams of this favorite as a blended sidecut delivers massively solid stability when you exterminate the boundaries your own adventure. Refuse to take “no” for an answer with the Pick Your Line Snowboard from Yes. [Purchase: $599]

4. Arbor Wasteland Snowboard – ($649)

Loaded with versatility and hard-charging power, the Arbor Wasteland Snowboard is back for another season, and this might just be its best yet. Arbor ups the ante once more as they have stocked the Wasteland with the types of tech that advanced riders crave. A rockered profile keeps the nose lofted out of deep snow and an incredibly light core combined with ideal contact points make this all-mountain machine super maneuverable. Seriously, it must have some mind-reading intelligence installed, because all you have to do is think it and the Wasteland is already responding with smooth turns and plenty of pop. A stiffer flex and impressive edge hold guarantee that you can tackle technical terrain, but it’s not overly aggressive to the point where you have to man handle it in order to have fun. Mount up with the Wasteland and create your own wilderness of clean lines and good times. [Purchase: $649]

5. CAPiTA Defenders of Awesome Snowboard – ($439)

“Excuse me. I’m just going to slip right through here. Pardon. Is this seat taken? Well, don’t mind if I do.” There isn’t much space left on the bandwagon, but snag a spot if you can, because the hype is real when it comes to the CAPiTA Defenders of Awesome Snowboard. This freestyle phenom absolutely punishes the park, but make no mistake as it can massacre the entire mountain. As a true twin with a perfectly mild flex, the DOA features carbon fiber beams through the center that equate to massive amounts of pop and response. Butter, press, grind, and slide your way through the park, but don’t forget to really send it off some of the mega hits. A lightweight, yet stable core can hold its own in the hairier terrain, and Kevlar Bound sidewalls beef up the durability so you can push this piece harder than you may dare with other decks. Thanks to its advanced profile, you really do get the power and precision of a cambered board, yet all the predictability and simple turn initiation of a flat or reverse camber board remains intact. A low maintenance base and a surprisingly modest price point round out all the many, many things tasty bits to salivate over when it comes to the CAPiTA Defenders of Awesome Snowboard. [Purchase: $439]

6. Ride Warpig Snowboard – ($459)

Much more than just your standard stubby chubby, the Ride Warpig Snowboard is a versatile volume shifted shredcicle that knows how to have fun all over the bump. Like other boards that are a bit on the short and wide side, the Warpig is certainly a surfer, but it’s got a freestyle feel that can slaughter pow, hoof it through the trees, and sizzle in the park. This directional rocker is stable, yet lively as it’s actually got a pleasant amount of pop without really much of a need to load up. Those Ride Slimewalls mute chatter, plus they really dial up the durability. All in all, this edition of the Warpig is more snarky and snappy than you might expect, but with a medium flex that leads to a lively and stable experience. Far beyond simply a fun groom cruiser, the Warpig Snowboard from Ride is an insanely maneuverable menace that insists on hogging the whole hill. [Purchase: $459]

Ready to rip yet? You better snag your stick, because Old Man Winter is about to get wicked.

Past Winners 2018 Best Snowboards

With several resorts having already fired up their lifts and many more preparing to do so in the near future, the distinct aroma of shred is in the air as it wafts down from the peaks that are once again becoming blanketed in our favorite fluffy stuff. So what’s your weapon of choice this year? Are you going for a plank that will disassemble the park feature after feature? How about something that’ll keep you afloat when the powder seriously stacks up? Or perhaps you’re in the mood for a quiver killer that’ll thrive no matter what you ride? Whatever you fancy, have no doubt that there are a ton of great boards on the menu season. Here are our picks for the best snowboards of  2017 – 2018.

Salomon Assassin Snowboard – ($449)

Stalk your target and execute through flawless precision with this freestyle focused true twin. A blend of everything you could want in a board profile includes a flat section from one binding to the other for stability you can trust, camber underfoot for incredible responsiveness, and a touch of rocker at the tip/tail for a touch of float and a heap of mean presses. That all adds up to a rip stick that’s supremely obedient to its master as an agile, but fun board that features a medium flex and lightweight, yet bombproof core. If you’re the kind of rider who envisions the whole hill as your park, the Assassin undoubtedly hits the mark. Born to kill and bred to thrill, this bad boy takes no prisoners. [Purchase:$499]

Arbor Westmark Snowboard – ($449)

Our other freestyle fave hails from the wizards at Arbor who have done their fans the favor of crafting this board with both a rocker and camber option. So no more fighting, guys. We’re all winners here. Regardless of which profile you choose, you’re getting a crisp, poppy ride on a true twin with a medium flex and those wide, flat tips that just beg to be buttered, ollied, and nollied in an obsessive manner. Take a glance under the hood and you’ll find a poplar core made of 100% sustainably grown trees that delivers droves of durability. The Westmark simply oozes quality craftsmanship that is backed by Arbor’s unbeatable 3-year warranty. So go ahead and get wicked with it, because this beast can handle the most twisted run you can fathom. [Purchase: $449.95]

Slash Brainstorm Snowboard – ($449)

Get off the groomers and ride the rowdy runs with all the aggression of a roided out wolverine thanks to this epic freeride/powder board from Slash. The Brainstorm fearlessly tackles chunder and crud while effortlessly floating the deep stuff due to its unique Backseat CamRock profile design. Plenty of rocker in the front keeps your nose out of trouble and a setback positioning won’t wear out that rear leg when you’re mobbing through fresh feet of snow. The core, sidecut and laminates all team up to create a poppy, reactive experience that gives you all kinds of confidence in the hairiest conditions. Did we mention there is Kevlar in this thing? While we wouldn’t recommend using it as a shield in a shootout, we can absolutely endorse its ability to hang tough no matter what you throw its way. [Purhcase: $449.95]

GNU Mullair Snowboard – ($599)

For those who roam wherever the mountain calls, this board from Mervyn Manufacturing and Nicolas Muller serves as a skeleton key that unlocks the entire hill. A true all-mountain board at its finest, this piece doesn’t just do everything moderately well, but instead thrives no matter where you ride or what conditions you face. The profile is mostly dominated by camber, but there is still a mild rocker between the bindings, which really adds up to a best of both worlds scenario that enables shredders to charge steep, technical lines. With a flex rating trending towards the stiffer side and that classic Magne-Traction serration, you’ll be hard pressed to find a line this monster can’t devour. The Mullair isn’t all business though as it can still show off its playful side whenever you just feel like goofing off. There really isn’t anything that can stop this board. Well, maybe Superman could. At least we can all agree that Mullair v Superman would have been a better movie. [Purchase: $599.95]

Never Summer Maverix Snowboard – ($529)

Did we save the best for last? That’s certainly the case if you ask our Editor. Snagging the nod as the hands down Editor’s Choice for best snowboard of 2018, the Maverix is unique in many ways. First, you take your normal board length and then size up or down 10 cm depending on whether you dig a wide, agile, versatile plank with supreme edge hold or you’re into more of a floaty, surfy experience with unparalleled stability. Then you lay it all on the line and enjoy whatever Mother Nature offers as this all-mountain master slays in totality with a sense of smoothness that’s just not found in other boards. Ready for some bonus points? Never Summer offers the Maverix in both men and women specific models so everyone can get in on this divine action. [Purchase: $529.95]

These are OUR top picks for the best snowboards of 2018. Get your own. Just kidding, we can share. In fact, we prefer it that way, because we can vouch for how much fun these boards are, and after all, fun is what it’s all about. So take your pick, stay safe, and of course, have a full on blast this season!

The post Top Snowboards for 2019 appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Andrew Tillery.

Mountain Weekly News ~

WILSON, WY – Game on in the Tetons. Felt nice to get some much needed turns in after a week at the SIA trade show in Denver, CO. A week off snow in the middle of winter is way to much time away from the mountains..

Glory Bowl Teton Pass Video

1/31/16

I was joined by some ripping skiers..

Glory Bowl Skiing Photos

Jacob Stinson Skiing Glory Photo Mike Hardaker | Mountain Weekly News

Ladies around here ski way better than you and Jake.. Photo Mike Hardaker | Mountain Weekly News

Jake charging as usual.. photo Mike Hardaker | Mountain Weekly News

The post Epic Glory Bowl Teton Pass Powder appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Mike Hardaker.

Mountain Weekly News ~

Learning to ride a snowboard halfpipe is not something that a straight up snowboarding beginner should try to take on. The photo above is out good pal Travis Young, a professional snowboarder..

Before you start, you should make sure that you have solid edge control and turning skills. The ability to ride fakie comfortably is also smart.

If you can do these things, then you might be ready to learn to snowboard in a halfpipe. Of course, working with an instructor in person is always the fastest and most effective way to learn a new snowboarding skill, but the tips below can help you learn to ride a halfpipe by yourself.

1. Start Slow

Learn to ride in a halfpipe in much the same way that you originally learned to ride in general. Traverse back and forth along the bottom of the halfpipe to get used to going up and down the same slope.

2. Sliding Turns

After a few traversing runs, try to get a little higher up on the transition of the halfpipe, taking care not to reach the vertical portion. When you reach the midpoint of the halfpipe wall, perform a slide turn to come down the other side. Learning to roll your edges (going up the transition on one edge and coming down on the other) is essential. Steadily work your way higher and higher up the halfpipe transition.

3. Jump Turns

Once you are near the top of the wall, it is time to attempt to get some air. Naturally, this step will be a little scary at first. No worries, it is surprisingly similar to going off a regular jump. Start very small, a few inches, and work your way up to more air steadily. Make sure to keep your knees bent slightly while landing and close to your body while you are in the air. Concentrate on the lip of the halfpipe during your landing so that you can prevent your nose from digging into it.

It is not impossible to learn to snowboard in a halfpipe by yourself. The tips above show you the basics of how to do so. Remember to start slowly, watch and learn from others more experienced than you, and make sure it’s your turn for a run, especially when you are first beginning to traverse.

More How To Snowboard Articles:

How to Buy a Snowboard for Beginners

How to Buy Snowboard Boots

How to Buy Snowboard Bindings

How to Snowboard in Powder

How to do Snowboard Grabs

How to do a 360 on a Snowboard

How to Jib on a Snowboard

How to Drop a Cliff on a Snowboard

The post Snowboarding Tips – How to Snowboard Half Pipe appeared first on Mountain Weekly News by Jake Walnuts.