Snowboarding is an exciting sport that requires the right gear to match your riding style. If you enjoy both all-mountain and park snowboarding, you need a board that can handle different terrains, jumps, and tricks. In this article, we will introduce the 8 best snowboards for all-mountain and park riding, explaining their features and why they are great choices.
What to Look for in an All-Mountain and Park Snowboard
Before choosing a snowboard, it’s important to understand the key features that make a board suitable for both all-mountain and park riding:
Flex: A medium flex (between soft and stiff) provides both stability and maneuverability.
Shape: Twin or directional twin shapes are ideal for park tricks and all-mountain versatility.
Camber Profile: Hybrid camber or rocker-camber-rocker profiles offer good edge control and pop.
Base Material: Sintered bases are faster and more durable, while extruded bases require less maintenance.
Edge Hold: Magne-Traction or serrated edges help with grip on icy slopes.
Now, let’s explore the best snowboards that fit these criteria.
1. Burton Custom
The Burton Custom is a legendary all-mountain snowboard that performs well in both park and backcountry terrain.
Features:
Camber Profile: Traditional camber for strong edge hold and pop.
Flex: Medium flex for versatility.
Shape: Directional twin for easy switch riding.
Base: Sintered WFO base for speed.
Why It’s Great:
The Burton Custom is a great choice for riders who want a high-performance board that can handle everything from carving to jumps.
2. Lib Tech Skate Banana
The Lib Tech Skate Banana is an iconic snowboard known for its playful feel and excellent edge grip.
Features:
Camber Profile: Rocker between the feet with mild camber underfoot.
Flex: Medium-soft, making it great for presses and butters.
Shape: True twin for freestyle performance.
Base: Eco Sublimated TNT base for good speed and durability.
Why It’s Great:
It’s perfect for riders who love hitting the park but also want a board that can carve well on groomers.
3. Capita Defenders of Awesome (DOA)
The Capita DOA is one of the most popular all-mountain freestyle snowboards.
Features:
Camber Profile: Hybrid camber for stability and pop.
Flex: Medium-stiff, giving it a responsive feel.
Shape: Twin for park riding and all-mountain playfulness.
Base: Sintered base for speed.
Why It’s Great:
The DOA is ideal for riders who want a powerful board for jumps, rails, and powder runs.
4. GNU Riders Choice
The GNU Riders Choice is designed for freestyle riders who want all-mountain versatility.
Features:
Camber Profile: Hybrid camber with Magne-Traction for edge hold.
Flex: Medium for a balanced ride.
Shape: Asymmetrical twin for improved turning.
Base: Sintered base for speed.
Why It’s Great:
It provides stability for carving while remaining playful enough for park tricks.
5. Never Summer Proto Synthesis
The Never Summer Proto Synthesis is a well-rounded board that excels in various conditions.
Features:
Camber Profile: Shockwave Rocker Camber for better control.
Flex: Medium-stiff for responsiveness.
Shape: True twin for park and switch riding.
Base: Sintered base for durability.
Why It’s Great:
It’s a great pick for riders who want an aggressive yet fun snowboard.
6. Salomon Huck Knife
The Salomon Huck Knife is a true twin freestyle board that also performs well on groomers.
Features:
Camber Profile: Traditional camber for pop and stability.
Flex: Medium-stiff, offering control on jumps and rails.
Shape: True twin for park tricks.
Base: Sintered base for speed.
Why It’s Great:
It’s perfect for those who want a reliable board for both park features and all-mountain riding.
7. Rome Artifact
The Rome Artifact is built for freestyle riders who also love all-mountain adventures.
Features:
Camber Profile: Positive camber for pop and precision.
Flex: Medium-soft for jibbing and playful riding.
Shape: True twin for switch tricks.
Base: Impact base for durability.
Why It’s Great:
It’s a great board for park riders who want a soft and forgiving feel.
8. Arbor Westmark Rocker
The Arbor Westmark Rocker is a fun, easy-to-ride snowboard with a smooth, surfy feel.
Features:
Camber Profile: Rocker for effortless turns and playfulness.
Flex: Medium-soft for flexibility.
Shape: True twin for balanced riding.
Base: Sintered base for good glide.
Why It’s Great:
It’s a great choice for riders who want a loose and playful board for park and groomers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right snowboard for both all-mountain and park riding depends on your style and preference. Whether you prefer the pop of the Burton Custom, the edge hold of the Lib Tech Skate Banana, or the playful feel of the Arbor Westmark Rocker, there’s a perfect board for you. Consider the flex, shape, and camber profile before making your decision, and you’ll be ready to ride anywhere on the mountain!
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