The Best Snowboards of 2011
With the resort season in full swing, you might find that your thoughts are turning to the slopes more and more often; feed those thoughts and read this article, which reviews the best snowboards of 2011! Whether you are brand new to snowboarding and have never strapped on a pair of boots, or you are a grizzled veteran with years of experience, you can always start looking for your next major board purchase. Many snowboarders maintain separate boards for different riding conditions, as well. There is one for groomed resort riding, and there is another for off-piste backcountry adventures. Whatever your snowboard needs may be, however, it doesn't hurt to look! So read on for some inspiration and ideas!
The A-Frame Snowboard from Arbor
If you are looking for a beautiful and elegantly designed snowboard that is especially designed for high speed runs and high altitude courses, look no further than the A-Frame Snowboard from Arbor. New for the 2011 and 2012 winter riding season, this board is loaded with a long list of technological advancements and cutting edge features to increase your performance and offer the smoothest riding possible. Featuring a mid-stiff flex, this board will remain responsive in the most powerful turns, and it offers the most forgiving control at the highest speeds. The advanced core is made from a blend of Paulownia and Poplar woods to increase tensile strength and provide maximum durability at a minimum weight. You'll also find inlaid power plies made from bamboo to enhance a springy and responsive feel. Triax over triax glassing gives you edging performance whenever you need it, whether it is in the half pipe or carving up on the mountain. The namesake carbon fiber A-frames actually run from the board inserts to the edge contact points, and it helps to increase the amount of torsional flex available in the initiation of an edging maneuver. The sidewalls are made from a tough blend of ABS and urethane for great edge control and overall durability, while the thin and tapered core profile promotes better performance in a variety of terrains.
The Feelgood Flying V from Burton
Having designed and manufactured professional level boards since snowboards were still a novelty on the slopes, Burton has become synonymous with the sport of snowboarding. With plenty of technical know how and a flair for aesthetic touches, a Burton board is a must have for any level of rider. Just check out the Feelgood Flying V from Burton to get a taste. This women's board has combined simplicity and advanced technology for a mountain or park ready board that will carve out a variety of terrains. Utilizing a woman-centric design that combines rocker and camber perfectly, the Feelgood features torsional softness in the foot area, with the rocker between and outside of your feet. The camber touches create a feeling of pop and precise control, perfect for gaining momentum and attempting airborne tricks. The Feelgood also utilizes a "Channel M6" binding system that allows for minute adjustments for the perfect stance and most comfortable ride. The snappy wood core uses two zone wood grains for better edge control, and it features a lightweight I-beam running through the center. This snowboard is also made from carbon for extra snap and control. You'll also find a tapered tip and tail that improve the amount of powder float you experience, while reducing your swing weight. All of these features only touch the tip of the iceberg, however, as there is much more to discover with the Feelgood Flying V!
The Anagram Snowboard from K2
For a world class snowboard that comes in at an affordable price, the Anagram from K2 is probably your best bet. Featuring all of the advancements of more expensive boards, the Anagram is perfect for beginners and pros alike. With several innovative design touches, such as a catch free rocker for quicker turn initiation, and a directional twin shape that facilitates riding regular or switch with ease, the Anagram also uses a 95 percent flat camber and 5 percent rocker for easy and reliable performance. This allows for a quicker learning curve for beginners and an easy and approachable ride for more experienced riders. You'll love the dual progressive sidecut that provides for amazing control and maneuverability, while the blended cap tip and tail are integrated into these sidewalls for a better durability and more responsive control platform. The wooden core gives you plenty of flexibility, while the cured fiberglass laminate creates a crisp, snappy, and poppy board feel that is perfect for trick riding at the park. The slick graphic will definitely stand out at the park, so make sure to keep a close eye on it!
