As the snowboarding season approaches, there’s no better time than now to invest in the best snowboarding gear. From helmet to boots, snowboards, and bindings, these tools are necessary if you want to have an epic day on the slopes.
Obviously, the most important piece of equipment is a snowboard. While there are many types of snowboards, the all-terrain varieties are the most preferred for their versatility. They’re designed to handle all kinds of conditions that you’ll encounter on the mountains. In this post, we’ll review the best all-mountain snowboards and guide you on how to choose one.
Best All-Mountain Snowboards
Burton Custom Flying V Wide Snowboard
Are you looking to invest in an all-terrain snowboard? If you are, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better choice than the Custom Flying V Snowboard by Burton.
Featuring a combination of the rocker and camber profiles, this snowboard offers an incredibly smooth ride. The rocker design improves its playfulness and float while the subtle camber zones help to emphasize the edge-control; thus, providing a crisp snap.
Burton Custom Flying snowboard has a twin flex, meaning it’s completely symmetrical from the front to the tail. This aspect helps you to stay balanced as you’re riding.
Since it sports a directional shape, you’re guaranteed of utmost stability even when you’re riding at high speeds or making rapid turns.
Also important to note is that the snowboard is 100% certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). What this means is that Burton employs sustainable practices and materials when creating snowboard’s core. This results in a snowboard that’s not only lightweight but also durable.
The Frostbite edges are another feature that make this all-mountain snowboard exceptional. Burton introduced this design long before the invention of the revered “serrated knife” edges. With the Frostbite design, the portion of the edge that’s underneath your bindings has been extended so as to provide better edge-hold when you’re riding on hard, icy areas.
Pros
- Fitted with frostbite edges to improve grip on icy terrain
- Backed by FSC certification
- Twin flex improves balance
- Lightweight and durable build
Cons
- Expensive
STAUBER All-Terrain Summit Snowboard
If you’re a newbie in snowboarding, the Stauber Summit Snowboard is a worthy investment. It’s not too expensive that it will break your bank. And it comes with another essential gear you need to get started on this sport- bindings.
The manufacturer employed innovative technology to make this snowboard, which explains why it provides such a comfortable all-terrain riding experience. The twin directional shape of the board prevents users from being tripped up by the leading edge when they’re riding in very snowy or icy conditions.
Another thing we like about the Stauber Summit is that it’s fit for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner, advanced or expert rider, you’ll be able to enjoy your snowboarding experience.
Pros
- Available in multiple sizes
- Comes with snowboard bindings; hence saving you money
- Ideal for riders of all levels
- Available in different shades
Cons
- Does not have the best traction
Burton Custom X Snowboard
Another snowboard by Burton, the Custom X, which comes with a hefty price tag, is also worth looking into. It boasts a level of aggression and precision that very few snowboards can rival.
Right from the design, you can tell that the manufacturer has taken things a notch higher with the Custom X. They have managed to keep its weight surprisingly low and still create a board that is stiff, stable and responsive.
This has been achieved by using Burton’s revolutionary dragonfly core. This means that the impact zones of the board are constructed with end-grain wood. Thus, the board has maintained a lightweight design without compromising its strength.
The positive camber on this board is perfect for the aggressive rider. It offers maximum stability at high speed, particularly when you’re riding on a winding path. It also gives more control when you’re landing massive jumps.
The directional design of the Custom X is another welcome feature. Simply put; this means the nose is slightly longer than the tail- an aspect that helps to concentrate pop towards the tail.
Pros
- Twin flex design, which makes for a balanced ride
- Backed by FSC certification
- Directional shape improves control
- Camber profile results in even weight distribution along the board
Cons
- Only available in one color
DC Mega Snowboard Men’s
DC brand actually started off in the skateboard shoe industry. Thus, it’s not surprising that they’ve ventured into making equipment for a fairly similar sporting activity- snowboarding. Their Mega Snowboard is a great all-terrain snowboard that not only comes in multiple sizes but also different colors.
According to the manufacturer, this is a medium-stiff board equipped with a camber profile throughout the centre. This results in a snappy and highly-responsive ride.
For its construction, the manufacturer has opted for the conventional wood composition, creating a lightweight but durable snowboard that can tackle any conditions. DC has also incorporated fiberglass, which boosts the edge-to-edge transfer.
Another noteworthy feature regarding the Mega’s design is the sintered base. This kind of platform is created by melting polyethylene pellets, which are then joined together by subjecting them to high pressure. This manufacturing method results in a board that provides superb speed, and better durability.
Pros
- Medium-stiff flex for improved responsiveness
- Lightweight and durable build for easy maneuverability
- Sintered base enhances longevity and rider’s speed
Cons
- The sintered base needs to be waxed regularly for maintenance
SALOMON Sight Snowboard Men’s
Are you looking for an inexpensive snowboard? If you are, the Sight Snowboard by Salomon is a great place to start. This is the upgraded version of the now-banned Ace and it serves as an excellent entry-level or affordable all-mountain ride.
The snowboard sports a hybrid camber profile, but it provides a more mellow flex that is perfect for newbie and intermediate riders. Even if you’re an advanced rider and are looking for an inexpensive board, the Salomon snowboard is still a good option.
A distinct feature of this board entails the choice of materials used in its construction. The inserts and rail zones are made of high-density wood, which has been certified by the FSC. This enhances the impact resistance of these sections.
Furthermore, this snowboarding equipment combines a cross profile, rocker and camber all into one unit. Due to this, it strikes the perfect balance between edge control and level of forgiveness.
Pros
- Designed to be more forgiving
- Backed by FSC certification
- Mellow flex perfect for newbie snowboarders
- Inexpensive
Cons
- It’s a tad slower because of the extruded base
How to Choose an All Mountain Snowboard
Flex
One of the most important factors you should consider is flex. This refers to how stiff or soft your snowboard is. Some boards, however, are designed in a way that combines a bit of both aspects. This is referred to as medium flex and it offers a good balance between softness and stiffness.
That said, there are certain situations that require specific designs. For instance, if you’re looking to increase your precision and control, an all-mountain stiff snowboard is a better option.
On the other hand, soft flex snowboards are more playful, which makes them suitable for activities like buttering and jibbing. Since they’re also more forgiving, softer snowboards are ideal for beginner riders.
Directional, Directional Twin or Twin?
When choosing the shape of your snowboard, the three main options you’ll have to pick from are directional, twin and directional twin.
Twin
This is the simplest type of snowboard and it’s characterized by a symmetrical shape that starts from the tip and extends all the way to the tail. This means that the nose and tail are of similar length.
Another distinct characteristic of a twin snowboard is that the flex, side cut and camber/rocker are all uniform on the entire board. This makes it easier for an individual to ride and land switch.
Directional
This type of snowboard is characterized by a nose that is longer than its tail. The tail is also stiffer- a feature that makes it easier to carve better turns and stay afloat through thick snow and powder. The nose is also stiffer to further help the rider to stay afloat. The stance on this snowboard is usually set back from the middle section of the board.
When you’re riding on a directional snowboard, the majority of your weight will be towards the tail and not the nose. This helps to minimize fatigue, which comes in handy particularly when you’re riding on steep and deep terrains.
And while directional boards can be ridden in either direction, they perform best when they’re navigated in a forward direction.
Directional Twin
As the name suggests, these snowboards combine the best of both worlds. In other words, they borrow attributes from both true twins and directional models, creating one highly-versatile tool that can accomplish it all.
So what do these snowboards look like? Well, they sport a symmetrical flex pattern but have the shape of a directional board. This means their nose is longer than the tail.
A directional twin is perfect for an individual who likes freestyle riding. Its design gives you the flexibility you need while improving floating capability. In some cases, you’ll come across directional twins that are shaped like twins. These are best suited for riding in both directions For such snowboards, the tail is kept stiff to enhance fast turns while the nose is long and soft to boost flexibility.
Snowboard Length
The easiest way to determine the right length for your snowboard is to take your height and weight into account.
Originally, riders used to determine the appropriate length by placing their boards in a vertical position with the tails on the bottom. They would then assess how tall the boards were in relation to their own height.
If the point of the board’s nose corresponded to an area between their chin and nose, then this was considered the right size. You can still employ this approach today. But the most accurate way is to consider your weight as well. This chart shows the right size of snowboard based on a rider’s weight:
| Rider’s Weight in lbs. | Snowboard Size in cm |
| 110- 120 | 128- 136 |
| 115- 130 | 133- 141 |
| 125- 135 | 139- 147 |
| 135- 145 | 144- 152 |
| 140- 155 | 149- 157 |
| 150- 165 | 154- 162 |
| 160- 175 | 159- 167 |
| 170- 185 | 160+ |
| 180- 195 | 160+ |
| 190- 205 | 160+ |
Snowboard by Gender and Age
Women’s snowboards
If you’re purchasing an all-terrain snowboard for a female rider, you’ll want to choose one that has a narrower waist width. This will correspond nicely to the frame and stance of a smaller rider with smaller feet. It should also have less camber and softer flex, which is tailored for the manner in which a smaller rider applies energy to the board when riding.
Smaller, lighter men will also benefit immensely from choosing snowboards with similar attributes. On the same note, taller female riders, especially those who have a boot size 9 or higher, will have a better chance of finding great snowboards if they choose from the men’s category.
Kids’ snowboards
A common mistake that parents do is to purchase snowboards that are too big for their toddlers. The concept behind doing so is that their children will ultimately grow bigger and require big-sized snowboards. But doing so is wrong, and it can make it difficult for a newbie to learn this sport. Instead, you should get your child a fitting board that they can manage.
Snowboard Camber and Rocker
Have you ever placed your snowboard on snow and examined it from a side angle? If you have, you might have noticed certain aspects about its shape. With some snowboards, you’ll realize that the center rises off from the surface while in other models, this section remains flat against the snow. This variation lays the foundation for the differences between camber and rocker.
Camber
This can be defined as the curvature of a snowboard, which happens mainly in the middle. This type of snowboard is designed to provide an exciting and stable ride. It also provides prop and excellent responsiveness when you’re riding on hardpack or groomed runs. Given these characteristics, it’s best suited for expert and speed-oriented riders.
Flat
Also referred to as neutral or no-camber model, this type of snowboard is self-explanatory. It’s flat or close to being flat underfoot instead of being cambered. The design of this board helps riders make swift turns. It also provides a good feel while enhancing the float.
Rocker
This is also known as a reverse camber and it’s characterized by upturned tips and tails. This type of snowboard is perfect for powder- which occurs when there’s heavy snowfall.
Unlike cambered snowboards, rockers are much softer and have a surfy feel to them. They facilitate swift turns, and they’re quite popular among newbie riders. Advanced riders can also enjoy riding on these beauties.
Camber/Rocker
These are boards that combine the best of rocker and camber snowboards. To be specific, they blend the excellent edge hold of the camber underfoot with the swift turning and floatation capability of a rocker board.
Flat/Rocker
Another variation is the flat/rocker combo that constitutes a flat section at the center to provide a reasonable edge hold when riding on hard snow. This board will also have a rockered tail and tip to ease the turning process and to provide a good float on soft snow.
Snowboard Width
Other than length and shape, snowboards also vary significantly based on their width. To establish what width works for you, you should check how your snowboard boots fit on the board’s waist.
If you’re using the right width of snowboard, then your boots should extend only slightly above the edges. If you end up purchasing a board that’s too wide, chances are that you’ll have more difficulty moving the board from one edge to the other.
Similarly, if your board is too narrow to the extent that your toes and heels overhang excessively, you’re likely to end up dragging your toes and heels. The most likely outcome of this is that you’ll lose complete control of your snowboard.
Here’s a chart to guide you on the right snowboard waist width based on men’s and women’s boot sizes:
| Snowboard Waist Width in mm | 235 – 245 | 245 – 255 | 255 – 260 | 260 – 265 |
| US men’s boot size | 6.0 – 8.0 | 8.0 – 9.5 | 10 – 11.5 | 11.5+ |
| US women’s boot size | <7.5 – 9.5 | 9.5 – 11 | 11.5+ | 13+ |
Final Word
If you enjoy snowboarding on a variety of terrains, then an all-mountain snowboard is one of the best investments you can make. These boards are specially-engineered to withstand different snow conditions and surfaces.
A high-quality all-terrain board that we recommend is the Custom Flying V Snowboard by Burton. Featuring a combination of camber and rocker profile, this board guarantees you a pretty flawless and smooth ride. The twin flex improves your balance when riding while the FSC certification means that the manufacturer has used sustainable practices and materials.