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Part Three: Types of Snowboards
Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry?
All snowboards are not the same (in many different ways!). But most newbie snowboarders are not aware that, first and foremost, snowboards are built to match a different types of riding styles.
What’s the difference between freeride boards, freestyle boards, do-it-all boards, etc.?
Snowboard are generally categorized into four different groups, depending on the type of riding they are designed for:
Freestyle Boards: These boards are typically softer, more flexible boards that are intended to be ridden in terrain parks and allow the rider to more easily perform tricks, spins, jumps, jibs, etc. Within this category, you will generally find specialized boards, such as halfpipe-focused boards, or boards that are designed for optimal jibbing and rail performance. These boards are typically not optimal for riding in powder, at high speeds or for true carving.
- All mountain Boards (a.k.a "Do-it-all" boards, "All Mountain Freestyle" board, etc): This is a catch-all category used to describe boards that perform fairly well in different mountain conditions, across multiple styles. They may not be the top-of-the-line boards to ride for racing or carving, nor are they the most ideal boards to ride for jibbing or working features in the park. They should, however, be acceptable within all those different conditions. All Mountain boards usually have a medium flex and are a very good choice for riders who spend a majority of their time freeriding, but like to go into the park every once in a while.
- Freeride Boards (a.k.a Big Mountain, etc.): These are boards designed to for freeriding and typically don’t perform well on park features. They are often optimized for powder riding, speed and maneuverability. They do well off of natural or manmade kickers, cliffs, etc. These boards typically have a stiffer flex.
- Alpine Boards (a.k.a Slalom boards or Race boards): Alpine boards are designed to do one thing very well: go fast in hard, groomed snow conditions. They are typically used by competition racers and are not designed for powder conditions. They are truly directional and not intended to be ridden switch (fakie). They are usually paired with hard boots and metal plate bindings. Alpine boards have a very stiff flex.
Many novice riders initially choose to go with a do-it-all board, which allows them more flexibility to learn or ride in different styles or conditions. As we mentioned earlier, novice riders may actually hamper their development if they purchase a more advanced setup, such as a pro-model pipe board, so it’s important to stay true to your actual riding style.
