Finding the perfect all-mountain snowboard can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This review dives into four top contenders for the 2023-2024 season, each catering to different rider styles and skill levels. From high-performance machines for aggressive riders to versatile options perfect for beginners and experts alike, we'll explore the unique features and capabilities of each board, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize deep powder performance, effortless carving on groomed runs, or the ability to conquer any terrain thrown your way, this guide provides the insights you need to find your ideal ride.This comprehensive review covers the Never Summer Proto Ultra, a high-performance board for advanced riders; the versatile Arbor Element, suitable for a wide range of skill levels; the surprisingly versatile Lib Tech Orca, a powder-crushing machine; and the innovative Ride War Pig, encouraging a downsizing approach for improved float. We'll delve into the specifics of each board's construction, camber profile, and overall performance, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you determine which board best matches your riding style and ambitions for the season ahead.
Pros And Cons
- Directional shape good for powder
- Feels like a standard snowboard on flat snow
- Volume shift (3-6cm shorter than usual size)
- Mixed glass with Basalt alloy for spring and pop
- Rocker in the middle to camber in the tips for float and power
- Stable even with weight distribution issues
- C base and centered sidewalls (PTEC) for durability and consistent flex
- Unisex sizing down to 138
- Directional shape
- Rides anywhere from park to powder
- Stiffer, snappier, and livelier than the standard Proto Synthesis
- Triple camber adds stability, pop, and edge hold
- For aggressive riders only
- Park riding likely limited to larger features
- Best-selling all-mountain board
- Suitable for a wide range of skill levels (beginner to advanced)
- Catch-free feel
- Hand-dyed ash top sheet
- Mixed glassing provides spring, pop, and push
- Centered base for speed
- Good edge hold
- Volume shift (6-10cm shorter than usual size)
- Centered stance on the sidecut, feels like a twin tip on flat snow
- Good float in deep snow
- Mixed glassing, slim wall, and carbon array for stability, spring, pop, and float
- Rides park to powder
- Shorter, squatter tail
Read more: 2025 Nitro Team Snowboard: A Versatile All-Mountain Dominator
Never Summer Proto Ultra: Aggressive All-Mountain Domination
The Never Summer Proto Ultra is a high-performance snowboard designed for aggressive riders. Its ultra-stiff construction and snappy feel make it ideal for tackling challenging terrain, from steep slopes to deep powder.
The triple camber profile provides a unique blend of stability and float. The rockered tips ensure catch-free turns, while the camber sections underfoot enhance pop and edge hold, offering a lively and responsive ride.
This board shines when pushing boundaries. Its exceptional edge hold provides confidence at high speeds. While suitable for park riding, it's best suited for larger features and advanced maneuvers.
Arbor Element: Versatile Performance for All Skill Levels
The Arbor Element is a legendary all-mountain board renowned for its versatility. It caters to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
Available in rocker and cambered versions, the Element offers a catch-free feel while maintaining stability and power. The hand-dyed ash top sheet adds a touch of aesthetic appeal.
Regardless of skill level, this board delivers impressive performance with its lively flex, pop, and stability. Its all-around nature and durable construction make it a top choice for various conditions.
Lib Tech Orca: Directional Powerhouse for Powder and Beyond
The Lib Tech Orca, with its directional shape and swallowtail, may look like a powder board, but it's surprisingly versatile. It performs exceptionally well on flat snow, feeling like a standard board.
However, its features, like the longer nose and shorter, abrupt tail, allow it to float effortlessly in deep powder. The volume shift (3-6cm shorter than usual) ensures excellent performance regardless of snow conditions.
This board features a unique rocker-to-camber profile, offering catch-free float while maintaining edge hold and stability. This makes it ideal for various terrain and riding styles.
Ride War Pig: Downsized Domination for All-Mountain Adventures
The Ride War Pig is a revolutionary board that encourages downsizing. With a volume shift of 6-10cm, riders can choose a board significantly shorter than their typical size.
Its unique shape, featuring a shorter, squatter tail and longer nose, optimizes float in deeper snow. The centered sidecut maintains a twin-tip feel on flat snow.
The mixed glassing, slim wall construction, and carbon array create a lively and stable ride. This blend of features makes the War Pig a highly versatile board for all mountain conditions.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect All-Mountain Snowboard
Each of these boards excels in different aspects. The Never Summer Proto Ultra is ideal for advanced riders seeking high-performance. The Arbor Element offers impressive versatility across skill levels.
The Lib Tech Orca provides excellent powder performance with surprising versatility. The Ride War Pig offers a unique downsizing approach for enhanced float and maneuverability.
Ultimately, the best all-mountain snowboard depends on your individual riding style and skill level. Consider factors such as stiffness, camber profile, and volume shift when making your decision.