Snowboarding Reviews
In-depth testing of snowboards, bindings, and mountain equipment.
Boots
Ride Lasso Snowboard Boots
There's a reason the Ride Lasso has been the best-selling snowboard boot in North America for years running. It's not flashy. It doesn't chase gimmicks. It just works. The combination of proven technology, all-day comfort, and a medium flex that suits the widest range of riders makes this the boot equivalent of a reliable truck: not the sexiest thing on the lot, but the one people keep coming back to because it does the job without drama.
DC Phase Snowoard Boots
The DC Phase represents something increasingly rare in snowboard gear: a genuinely affordable entry point that doesn't feel like a compromise you'll regret by February. These traditional lace-up boots deliver a surprisingly responsive fit, solid comfort, and the kind of customizable tension that only laces can provide. They're not trying to compete with premium options, and that honesty is refreshing. For budget-conscious riders who don't mind the old-school lacing ritual, the Phase gets the job done.
Snowboards
Burton Process Camber Snowboard
Burton's Process has been a staple in their lineup for years, and for good reason, it's designed to be that reliable all-mountain companion that can handle a bit of everything. But does it live up to the hype? After spending quality time on the Burton Process Camber, here's my unfiltered take on this popular board.
Lib-Tech Orca Snowboard
The Lib Tech Orca has earned its reputation as one of the most hyped boards of the past several years, and for good reason. It's a freeride powder board that refuses to be a one-trick pony. While its heart belongs in deep snow and tight tree runs, it handles groomers and all-mountain terrain far better than most directional shapes have any right to. That said, if powder days make up less than half your season, there may be better options for your quiver.
Nidecker MERC All Mountain Snowboard
The Nidecker Merc sits in a sweet spot that's surprisingly hard to find: affordable enough for budget-conscious riders, capable enough to grow with you, and forgiving enough that you won't hate yourself on day one of the season. After putting it through its paces, I can see why opinions are split online. It's not a beginner board and it's not an expert board. It's a genuinely solid all-mountain ride that rewards riders who are willing to push into it.
Helmets
Bindings
Nidecker Supermatic Automatic Step-in Binding
Nidecker Supermatic Automatic Step-in Binding, Save your time and your back from sitting or hunching down to strap in your bindings. Hands-free style engagement speeds up laps without sacrificing locked-in support.
Step On Re:Flex Snowboard Bindings by Burton
After logging roughly 15 days on these bindings over a full season, I walked away with mixed feelings. The Step On system delivers exactly what it promises, speed and convenience, but it comes at the cost of the locked-in performance that more aggressive riders crave. If you're a beginner, an intermediate rider, or someone who values getting on and off the lift quickly over maximum response, these could be your new best friend. For everyone else, read on.