The Capita Defenders of Awesome (DOA) 2018 snowboard delivers an exhilarating ride, proving its versatility across various terrains and snow conditions. From its initial responsiveness and intuitive handling to its impressive performance at high speeds, the DOA consistently impressed during testing. The unique blend of camber and rocker ensures smooth transitions and effortless control, regardless of snow type. This all-mountain ripper surprised even experienced riders with its balanced flex profile, offering both playful responsiveness for jumps and the stability needed for confident carving.Its mid-flex, while initially unexpected, facilitated powerful releases and impressive airtime, while maintaining exceptional control and stability. The DOA’s robust construction provides reliable support on landings, confirming its suitability for park riding, despite not being directly tested in this review. Endorsed by pro rider Sage Kotsenburg as his top all-around board, the twin-shaped DOA excels in both regular and switch riding, solidifying its position as a top-tier, versatile choice for any snowboarder.
Pros And Cons
- Responsive
- Good for all-around riding
- Rips
- Good for park riding (enough flex)
- Lots of power
- Good landing gear for jumps
- Great for switch riding
- Slightly less stiff than expected (could be a pro for some)
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First Impressions: A Responsive Ride
My first run on the Capita Defenders of Awesome (DOA) was exhilarating. The board's responsiveness was immediately apparent, making it a joy to carve through the snow. It felt incredibly intuitive, allowing me to easily transition between turns and maintain control.
The blend of camber and rocker in the tips contributed to the board's smooth performance. It effortlessly handled varied snow conditions and felt incredibly stable at high speeds. This board is a fantastic choice for those seeking a responsive and versatile ride.
Flex and Performance: Power and Playfulness
While I prefer a stiffer board, the DOA's mid-flex surprised me in a positive way. It allowed for easy load-up and powerful releases, generating impressive height on jumps. The board's response was quick and predictable, creating a playful and exciting riding experience.
Despite its relatively mid-flex, it maintained excellent stability and power. The DOA's performance exceeded my expectations, delivering a balance between control and responsiveness.
Versatility: Park and Powder Prowess
The DOA isn't limited to groomed runs. Its flex profile suggests a suitability for park riding, although I didn't get to test it in the park this time. Enough flex exists to comfortably tackle rails and boxes.
Moreover, the board's substantial landing gear provides exceptional support during jumps and landings. It's a well-rounded board capable of performing well in various terrains and snow conditions, demonstrating versatility.
Overall Impression: A Top Performer
Sage Kotsenburg's choice of the DOA as his top-performing all-around board speaks volumes about its capabilities. It's a twin-shaped board enabling both regular and switch riding, enhancing its versatility even further.
Whether you're cruising groomed runs, hitting jumps, or exploring park features, the Capita Defenders of Awesome delivers consistent and reliable performance. This is a truly versatile and impressive board.
If you're looking for a single board that can handle diverse conditions, the DOA is an excellent choice. Its balance of responsiveness, power, and stability makes it a standout performer in the all-mountain category.