What are the different types of snowboards?

Every year, snowboarding continues to attract new enthusiasts. Knowing the different categories of snowboards is essential to choose a board suited to the program and snow conditions.

The configuration of snowboards varies depending on the terrain. Of course, it is possible to ignore the classification, but it is better to follow it if you want to maximize enjoyment, progress quickly, and improve your performance.

We distinguish the types of boards: all-mountain, freestyle, freeride, and splitboard.

All-mountain snowboard, versatile in every situation

As the name suggests, all-mountain boards are distinguished by their all-around versatility. Whether on a groomed slope, fresh snow, slightly icy patches, or in a snowpark, this snowboard demonstrates great adaptability.

There is a notion of specialization within this category. Depending on the program, the rider can choose between an all-mountain freestyle board or an all-mountain freeride board.

Thanks to their quality, all-mountain boards attract many riders. Moreover, if you are just starting and are not yet familiar with the specifics of each type, a versatile board is a good choice. You can both ride groomed slopes, practice various tricks in a freestyle park, and explore off-piste trails to fully enjoy the scenery.

Freeride Snowboard, a return to the roots

Unlike the all-mountain board, this category is adapted to powder. This type of board harks back to the origins of the sport, when groomed slopes were scarce. Snow enthusiasts used to ride fresh snow on simple boards.

Today, manufacturers revive this trend by integrating new technologies. These boards can also be short and wide. They feature a directional shape and an XXL nose combined with a large rocker. To enhance maneuverability, the tail splits in two, somewhat like a swallowtail.

Given the exclusive nature of this board, it is advisable to purchase a second, more versatile board. You will use the first one when conditions are ideal and snow is abundant. The second board allows you to keep improving your skills regardless of conditions. In other words, it’s important to have both options.

A freestyle board to express your creativity

Symmetrical (Twintip), balanced, and maneuverable, freestyle snowboards resemble skateboards. These models are easily recognizable by their twin-tip profile, allowing the board to slide in both directions. That is, you can switch from regular stance to switch stance without issues.

Balance is crucial. The rider will maintain control on various courses. Since maneuverability is inversely proportional to board length, freestyle boards are shorter. This feature enhances the board’s responsiveness and allows you to navigate different park modules without losing momentum.

Manufacturers have also designed boards suitable for different circuits. For jibbing, a soft board is ideal for responsiveness. In contrast, half-pipes and big air require more rigidity, which reduces responsiveness but increases grip on the pipe walls.

The splitboard, two boards in one

The splitboard is an evolution of the freeride board. This relatively new snowboard is ideal for explorers who want to traverse large areas and discover nature in all its glory.

The basic configuration resembles a freeride board. Its unique feature is the ability to split in two, giving the rider two skis at their disposal. Binding systems vary by manufacturer, including Union Explorer, Karakoram.

With a splitboard, the rider can ascend the mountain comfortably and then descend quickly while standing on the board.

See also the Jones Split Package or the XV Splitboard by Xavier De Le Rue.