buyers’
guide 2010 boards, boots & bindings 092
www.snowboardermag.com.au
Andy Lloyd Perisher backcountry. P: RyanWillmottPhotography.com
Welcome to the 2010 Snowboarder Buyers’ Guide.
If you’re in the market for a new board, new bindings or new boots we can help ease the pain of trying to decide what to spend your hard-earnt cash on. This season’s gear features some truly great advances in snowboard technology, so if you’re considering upgrading your set-up be sure to investigate some of the new board designs on offer.
boards The three most important factors of choosing a board that will best suit your needs are foot size, height and weight and riding style. Board Type (Riding Style) Board Width (Foot Size): B o a r d w i d t h i s d e te r m i n e d by a measurement in millimetres or centimetres of the narrowest point of a board’s waist. The deciding factor when choosing the ideal board width is the size of a rider’s feet. Too narrow a board and you will suffer from heel and toe drag, thus hindering your performance. Too wide on the other hand and you’ll lose a lot of your responsiveness. You should try and get a board that is narrow enough to accommodate your foot size at your lowest stance angle. It is desirable to have one to two centimetres of overhang to ensure the pressure points in your feet are directly over the edges.
Board Length (Height/Weight): A general rule to follow with board length is that shorter boards are better for freestyle riding and longer boards are better for backcountry riding. But board length is also determined by your height and your weight.
Height – First the top of your board should come up to the same height as between your chin and eyes. Too long a board for a short person can really restrict their responsiveness, and vice versa for taller people.
Weight – Simple rule of thumb is the more your body weighs then the more board length you’re going to need. For a reference point try this guide below: • 144cm: 32-54 kg • 148cm: 34-57 kg • 151cm: 45-68 kg • 154cm: 52-75 kg • 158cm: 59-82kg • 162cm: 64-86kg • 166cm: 73-95kg
Finally, there are board specifics to consider, including whether you prefer to freeride, freestyle or something more all round. Boards by design are quite often specific to terrain. Not that you will only be able to ride your new board in a specific type of terrain or anything like that, but you’ll find your board works better in the conditions it is designed for. There are three main categories:
key
Freeride/All Mountain – Designed to ride the whole mountain from park to backcountry and pow to groomers. These boards tend to be stiffer in flex and longer than freestyle boards. Quite often they come with a set back stance, meaning you can set your bindings, allowing for more nose for powder riding. They are often designed to be directional in shape, usually going from a softer nose to stiffer tail.
Forum
Burton
i www.forumsnowboards.com i (02) 9935 9000
Freestyle – Designed more for sliding rails, spinning off jumps and riding the pipe. These boards tend to be softer in flex and shorter than freeride boards. Quite often they come with more centred stance options. They are often twin tip in design, meaning they are designed to land tricks normal or switch stanced.
Jibs / Rails – Designed more with the needs of rail riding in mind. These boards tend to be quite softer in flex, making it easier to press the board on rails and boxes. These boards tend to give you that playful, creative licence to put your body in positions probably not achievable on stiffer, contemporary boards.
model: Holy Moly TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 152, 155, 158 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $849.95 EXTRA FEATURES: Combo Platter profile, Booter Booster NexTreme carbon pop strands, Butter Cup technology tip and tail.
model: The Sauce TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 142, 147, 151 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $559.95 EXTRA FEATURES: New Women’s ChillyDog continuous rocker, Free Base, Twin Shape.
model: The Star TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 142, 146, 149, 152 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $699.95 EXTRA FEATURES: New Womens ChillyDog continuous rocker, Gnar Core with Swingers Club technology.
model: Young Blood ChillyDog TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 148, 152/155W, 154/157W, 156/159W CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $699.95 EXTRA FEATURES: ChillyDog with Pop continuous rocker, Biax laminate, Gnar Core with Swingers Club technology.
www.snowboardermag.com.au
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boards
model: Machete TYPE: FR/FS LENGTHS: 152, 155, 157W, 158, 160, 161W, 162, 164W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $799.00 EXTRA FEATURES: LowRize Rocker, Slimewalls, Cleave Edge, Sintered 4000 base, Twin. model: Addict TYPE: FR LENGTHS:153, 156, 159, 162, 156W, 159W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $669.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Combat Core, Bi-Lite Laminates, Radial Sidecut, Profile Tip, Hi-Def FH base, Gullwing Camber, Directional Twin.
model: Mystique TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 142, 146, 149, 152, 155 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $629.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Powercore, Bi-Laminate Laminates, Radial Sidecut, Hi Def FH Base.
model: Rook TYPE: Fs LENGTHS: 152, 154, 156, 159 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $829.00 EXTRA FEATURES: X-Powercore, Bi-Lite Laminates, Ballistic Impact Panel, Dual Degressive Sidecut, Profile Tip, Railkiller Edge, Sintered Speed Forumla Base.
model: Sub Zero TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 148, 152, 155, 158 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Combat Core, Bi-Lite Laminates, Dual Degressive Sidecut, Hi-Def FH Base, Bullwing Camber and Drifer Base.
model: Team Gullwing TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 152, 155, 157, 159, 162, 157W, 159W, 162W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $799.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Powercore, BiLamintate Laminates, Dual Degressive Sidecut, Profile Tip, Hi-Def FH Base, Gullwing Camber.
model: Antic TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 151, 154, 157, 158W, 160, 162W, 163, 165W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: LowProRize Rocker = playful nose and a grippy stable tail, Slimewalls, Sintered 4000 base.
Ride Bentley Sports
model: DH2 TYPE: Fs LENGTHS: 151, 153, 155, 156W, 157, 159, 159W, 161, 162W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $849.00 EXTRA FEATURES: ProRize Shape, Slimewalls, Cleave Edge, Pop Rods 2.0, Membrain topsheet, Sintered 4000 base, Twin.
model: Compact TYPE: Fs/FR LENGTHS: 139, 143, 147, 150, 153 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: LowRize Rocker, Slimewalls, Cleave Edge, Twin.
model: Promise TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 141, 145, 148, 151, 154 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: LowProRize Rocker = playful nose and a grippy stable tail, Slimewalls, Sintered 4000 base.
i www.ridesnowboards.com i (03) 9581 5444
Nitro Sportfactor
i www.nitrousa.com i (02) 9531 5600
technine
Future Sport
k2 Bentley Sports
i www.technine.com i (02) 4365 1838
i www.k2snowboarding.com i (03) 9581 5444
model: Enforcer R/C TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 149.5, 152.5, 155.5 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $599.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Stitched Bi-Axial Laminate, 9 Rocks Reverse Camber Profile.
model: VaVaVoom Rocker TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 135, 138, 143, 148, 152 CONSTRUCTION: H PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Jib Rocker, Jib Tip, Rhythm Core.
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www.snowboardermag.com.au
model: Fling TYPE: Fs LENGTHS: 138, 142, 146, 149, 153 CONSTRUCTION: H PRICE: $779.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Flatline, Rhythm Core, Carbon Matrix I, 4000 Sintered Base.
model: Slayblade TYPE: Fs/FR LENGTHS: 153, 156, 158, 161, 164, 159W, 163W, 166W CONSTRUCTION: H PRICE: $899.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Flatline, Harshmellow, Hybrilight Construction, WH4 Core, ICG 20, 400O Sintered Base.
model: Turbo Dream TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 153, 156, 159, 161, 157W, 160W, 164W CONSTRUCTION: H PRICE: $849.00 EXTRA FEATURES: All Terrain Rocker, Harshmellow, WH3 Core, ICG 10, Carbon Matrix I, 4000 Sintered Base.
model: Fastplant TYPE: Fs LENGTHS: 151, 154, 157, 160, 156W, 159W, 162W CONSTRUCTION: H PRICE: $949.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Jib Rocker, All new Bambooyah Core, 4000 Sintered Base, Carbon Matrix II, ICG 20.
model: Lucas Magoon Yucky Charms TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 145.5, 149.5, 153, 155 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Stitched Bi-axial Laminate, Rubber Edge Dampeners, Carbon and Kevlar in the in WDT9 Core.
model: MFMxSOUND TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 151, 155, 157, 151W, 155W, 157W CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $479.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Power Tech Lite Core, Light Stitched Bi-ax Laminate.
model: Dime TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 141, 144, 147, 152 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $499.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Power Tech core, Stitched Bi-axial Laminate.
model: T9 TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 141, 144, 147, 152 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $499.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Power Tech core, Stitched Bi-axial Laminate.
What’s New – K2 Fastplant with Bambooyah Technology When a company is prepared to back its claim of constructing an indestructible board by offering a five year warranty you know they have faith in their product. The new Fastplant with Bambooyah core contains a layered, skate inspired ply laminate made of bamboo. The Fastplant’s construction reduces ecological impact through bamboo’s fast-growing properties as well as the ability to be harvested without pesticides, artificial irrigation or large-scale environmental degradation. So not only is the board built tough and eco-friendly, but also includes K2’s proven jib rocker technology, ensuring the Fastplant meets and beats the demands of the park.
Arbor Future Sport
i www.arborcollective.com i (02) 4365 1838
DRAKE
Future Sport
model: Draft TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 143, 147, 149.5, 153, 155, 158.5 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: The Jib System, Grip Tech, Wood power spine, Bronze edges, Robusto Tips 2010 SIA Innovation award.
model: Cadence TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 139, 143, 147, 151 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: The Park System, Grip Tech, Bella stance, Wood power ply, Rocker Base.
What’s New – Arbor’s Brass Edges Arbor has utilised brass edges in the construction of the Draft for a better sliding experience. Bronze is softer than steel, the standard material used for most snowboard edging. Utilising brass allows for a more catch-free rail-riding experience.
model: Coda TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 153, 157, 161, 165 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $849.00 EXTRA FEATURES: The Mountain System max 62cm, Medium Shadow Flex, Triax over Biax lay-up.
model: A Frame TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 158, 162, 166, 170 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $949.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Standard width, Inlaid wood power ply, A-Frame struts, Shaman core, Mountain stance, Super Fast Rocket base.
i www.northwave.it i (02) 4365 1838
model: Westmark TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 150, 153, 156, 159 CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: The Park System, Griptech, Standard width, Shadow Flex, will take up to a 12.5 US boot .
What’s New – Drake Snowboards From the same company that has been manufacturing some of the highest-quality bindings on the market, a diversification of their range now also includes snowboards. Manufactured in Austria and crafted to give you pop, speed and the carving edge you need in any condition, Drake snowboards won’t disappoint. Team includes the likes of Risto Mattilia, Matty Ryan and Hans Ahlund. Visit www.northwave.it for more info.
model: Charm TYPE: FR, FS LENGTHS: 143, 147, 152, 155 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $499.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Biaxial fibre core wrap, Nice forgiving flex pattern.
model: DF2 R/C TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 152, 154 156, 158 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $699.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Premium POP core, Carbon bars crisscrossed on the tip and tail, Stucturn base.
model: Player TYPE: FR, FS LENGTHS: 148, 152, 156, 160, 156W, 162W CONSTRUCTION: Sw PRICE: $549.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Available in Wide, Stucturn base, Biaxial fibre core wrap.
model: Urban TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 149, 153, 156, 158 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $599.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Triaxial fibre core wrap, High Density HDC along the core’s edges for grip, Stucturn base.
model: Venice TYPE: FR, FS LENGTHS: 143, 146 149, 152. CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $549.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Biaxial fibre core wrap, Structurn base.
Burton
Burton
i www.burton.com.au i (02) 9935 9090
ROME Future Sport
model: ANTHEM TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 157, 159, 161, 163, 160W, 163W CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $899.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Carbon V Powerbars, Kevlar Impact Plates, StraightTriax 45 Laminate, SinterSpeed Base, New Hybrid camber.
model: Artifact Rocker TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 144, 147, 150, 153, 156 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Quickgrip sidecut, Glass Impact Plates, Glass Reverse V Stringer, Impact Base.
model: Postermania Rocker TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 144, 150, 153, 156, 159, 152W, 155W, 158W CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $849.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Basalt Impact Plates, Carbon V Stringer, StraightBiax Carbon Laminate.
model: Garage Rocker TYPE: JR LENGTHS: 148, 152, 154, 156, 159 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $649.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Glass Reverse V Stringer, StaightBiax Laminate.
model: Lo-Fi Rocker TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 143, 146, 149 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $749.00 EXTRA FEATURES: Basalt V , StraightBiax Carbon Laminate, SinterTrue Base.
i www.romesnowboards.com i (02) 4365 1838
key
model: Custom V-Rocker TYPE: FR LENGTHS: 151, 154, 159, 163 CONSTRUCTION: SW PRICE: $799.95 EXTRA FEATURES: The Channel and Reverse Camber V-Rocker Tech, Super Fly II Core , Sintered N20 WFO Base.
www.snowboardermag.com.au
095
Clint
Robert
Allan
Age: 23 Sponsors: Billabong, VonZipper, Ride Snowboards, Nixon, Grenade, Clast Neckwear, Rhythm Boardstore Height: 5”10 Weight: 75kg Shoe Size: 10 Stance Width: Around about 23” Stance Angles: 18 on my front and -6 on the back. Board: Ride Machete 158 Boots: Ride Insano boots Bindings: Ride Delta Mvmnt
What type of riding do you tend to do the most: Mostly backcountry.
P: RyanWillmottPhotography.com
Why do you ride your chosen board out of the range: The Machete works really good for me. It’s a mellow banana camber and it’s stiff enough to be able to shred anywhere I want. Any tuning techniques: Nah, I detune the tip and tail slightly. What do you like about your bindings: They keep my feet to the board and the gel in them is really comfy. Toecap straps or foot straps on your bindings: Yeah, they’re kinda toecap straps. Any forward lean: Nope. How do you like your boots to fit: I usually wear a half size too big so I don’t have to break them in as much. Do you use mouldable innersoles or liners: Nah, I just wear them straight from the box. Best tip for someone setting up a board: Set your stance up wherever it is comfortable for you. What works for some people might not work for you. What’s hot this year on the hill: Clast neckwarmers.
BOOTS
If there is anything that can ruin your day riding, it’s uncomfortable boots.
To be responsive, your snowboard boots need to fit your feet like a glove. You want a snug fit all over with your toes just touching the end and secure on your heel. Ideally the boot should move with your foot rather than your foot moving inside the boot. Each person has a differing foot shape so it pays to try out a few different brands of boots to find one that best meets your needs. While your boots may feel tight in the shop, over time the boot’s liner will pack down and take the shape of your foot, resulting in it feeling roomier. Most manufacturers also now offer heat-mouldable liners with their boots, which can prove to be a godsend in terms of additional comfort. Some require professional heating in a shop while others can be heated simply using a hair dryer. Either way heat-mouldable liners will conform to the shape of your foot quicker than a regular liner.
Model: Anthem Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $459.00
RIDE
Bentley Sports
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i www.ridesnowboards.com i (03) 9581 5444
www.snowboardermag.com.au
Model: Fader Sizes: 4-11 PRICE: $399.00
Model: Strapper Keeper Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $479.00
Model: Grifter Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $359.00
Model: Jackson Boa Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $399.00
NITRO
Sportfactor
Model: Team TLS Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $499.00
Model: FUL Sizes: 7-13 PRICE: $499.00
i www.nitrousa.com i (02) 9531 5600
Model: Vita Sizes: 4-11 PRICE: $359.00
Model: Sash Boa Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $399.00
Model: Sage Boa Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $379.00
K2
Model: Affair Conda Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $499.00
Bentley Sports
Model: Darko Conda Sizes: 6-13 PRICE: $499.00
Model: Haven Boa Coiler Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $399.00
Model: Raider Boa Coiler Sizes: 6-15 PRICE: $399.00
Model: T1 Sizes: 6-13 PRICE: $549.00
i www.k2snowboarding.com i (03) 9581 5444
NORTHWAVE Future Sport
Model: Dahlia SL Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $319.00
Model: Decade SL Sizes: 8-13 PRICE: $399.00
Model: Legend SL Sizes: 8-13 PRICE: $369.00
Model: Opal SL Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $369.00
i www.northwave.it i (02) 4365 1838
Model: T-Track Sizes: 8-13 PRICE: $599.00
ROME Future Sport
Model: Folsom Sizes: 8.5-12.5 PRICE: $449.00
Model: Libertine Sizes: 7.5-12.5 PRICE: $379.00
Model: Bodega Sizes: 8.5-12.5 PRICE: $349.00
Model: Bastille Sizes: 6.5-9.5 PRICE: $349.00
Model: Memphis Sizes: 6.5-9.5 PRICE: $299.00
have you tried Alternative
BURTON BURTON
i www.romesnowboards.com i (02) 4365 1838
i www.burton.com.au i (02) 9935 9090
Lacing System – Boa System
FORUM BURTON
Model: Kicker Sizes: 7-13 (Half Sizes 7-11) PRICE: $449.95
Model: Ion Sizes: 7-13 (Half Sizes 7-11) PRICE: $649.95
i www.forumsnowboards.com i (02) 9935 9000
Quattro sports
Model: Lashed Sizes: 5-13 PRICE: $399.00
Model: Prime Sizes: 6-13 PRICE: $559.00
Model: Propsect Sizes: 5-14 PRICE: $379.00
Model: Ultralight Sizes: 6-13 PRICE: $549.00
i
32 BOOTS www.thirtytwo.com
i (02) 9972 1641
If you’re finding that trying to tighten your boots without shredding your fingers or snapping your laces is proving to be quite the struggle then perhaps BOA’s speed lacing system is for you. The BOA system is easily identifiable by the dial on the boot’s tongue. By simply turning this dial the boot tightens around your foot to the desired fit. To get out of the boot you simply pop the dial to release the pressure. boa
Model: Vela Sizes: 5-10 PRICE: $499.00
Alternative Lacing System – Thirty Two Fast Track lacing System The Fast Track system has been recently introduced by ThirtyTwo as an answer to riders’ demand for quick lacing options. The Fast Track gets you in and out of your boots in mere seconds. It’s as simple as pull, lock and shred. The pull tabs on the right hand side of the boot control the tightening of the upper of the boot while the left hand side controls the lower. Once tightened to required comfort one simply locks the tabs on the side of the boot and your ready to shred. Unlike the Boa system, which utilizes thin strips of metal, the lashed system uses a form of highly durable elastic lace. Visit www.thirtytwo.com for more info. www.snowboardermag.com.au
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When it comes to choosing bindings, here are some simple rules to keep in mind.
bindings Sportfactor
Choose something comfor table and lightweight, but yet still strong and durable. Make sure your bindings are totally and wholly adjustable. You need to be able to set yourself up with a stance that best suits your riding. Don’t let your bindings dictate your stance. Be sure to get the right size binding to fit your boots. Sounds simple we know, but you’d be surprised how many people make this mistake. Make sure your boot fits snugly inside the binding and the binding straps have the capability to reach across the boot for tightening.
RIDE Bentley Sports
K2 Bentley Sports
NITRO
i www.nitrousa.com i (02) 9531 5600
MODEL: Blackhawk PRICE: $399.00
MODEL: Deco PRICE: $259.00
MODEL: Phantom PRICE: $499.00
MODEL: Wizard PRICE: $279.00
MODEL: Zero PRICE: $369.00
MODEL: Contraband PRICE: $429.00
MODEL: Ex PRICE: $349.00
MODEL: Bandita Contraband PRICE: $429.00
MODEL: Vxn PRICE: $349.00
MODEL: Nitrane Contraband PRICE: $499.00
i www.ridesnowboards.com i (03) 9581 5444
What’s New – Ride Contraband Bindings. New in binding technology is the single- ratchet V-Strap offering from Ride; replacing the conventional two-strap binding system. The binding has eliminated the toe strap and replaced it with a flexible, polymer, plastic strap similar to what you might find on a pair of crampons or on a pair of snowshoes. The V-Strap combines both the ankle and toe elements into one entity that is not only lighter and more convenient, but more functional as well. More functional in the sense that it allows for quicker entry and exit into your bindings. Still not sure how these bindings work? Then pay a visit to www.snowboardermag. com.au to check out a video.
i www.k2snowboarding.com i (03) 9581 5444
MODEL: Auto Uprise PRICE: $479.00
MODEL: Auto PRICE: $529.00
MODEL: Bliss PRICE: $339.00
MODEL: Formula PRICE: $399.00
MODEL: Cinch Tryst PRICE: $429.00
MODEL: Cartel EST PRICE: $449.95
BURTON BURTON
MODEL: Simon Chamberlain Pro MODEL: Dime PRICE: $399.00 PRICE: $269.00
MODEL: Lucas Magoon Pro PRICE: $399.00
MODEL: Team Pro PRICE: $369.00
MODEL: T9 PRICE: $269.00
TECHNINE Future Sport
FORUM
Burton
098
i www.forumsnowboards.com i (02) 9935 9000
www.snowboardermag.com.au
i www.technine.com i (02) 4365 1838
What’s New – Forum’s Hinge Disc Technology Forum’s Shaka binding features the Good Vibes Hinge Disc, winner of the SIA’s Industry Innovation of the Year Award. MODEL: Republic MODEL: Shaka This flexible new disc allows the board to bend without PRICE: $369.95 PRICE: $449.95 interrupting its natural flex. When used in conjunction with the Shaka’s split baseplate, the Hinge Disc provides a freer underfoot flex for increased board feel. The Hinge Disc will also easily mount on any four-hole pattern board. Forum suggests trying it with a Continuous Rocker board for a truly awakening experience. Still not sure how these bindings work? Then pay a visit to www.snowboardermag.com.au to check out a video.
i www.burton.com.au i (02) 9935 9090
have you tried
DRAKE Future Sport
MODEL: Fifty PRICE: $299.00
ROME
Future Sport
Cap Straps
i www.northwave.it i (02) 4365 1838
MODEL: Jade PRICE: $299.00
i www.romsnowboards.com i (02) 4365 1838
Cap Straps
MODEL: King PRICE: $249.00
MODEL: Supersport PRICE: $ 399.00
MODEL: DL PRICE: $329.00
MODEL: 390 PRICE: $389.00
MODEL: Madison PRICE: $379.00
MODEL: Strut PRICE: $359.00
Darragh Walsh
P: Sean Radich
Age: 24 Sponsors: Nitro, Ifound, Destyn Via, Pow, Trigger Bros, Oakley and Dino clothing Height: 6”2 Weight: 75 kg Shoe Size: 10 Stance Width: 25” Stance Angles: +15 front, -15 back Board: Nitro Swindle 155 Boots: Nitro Teams Bindings: Nitro Raiden Phantoms What type of riding do you tend to do the most: I would have to say I am a jibber/park rider. Growing up with a skateboarding background I love hitting rails, jibs and jumps. It’s what I have the most fun doing! Why do you ride your chosen board out of the range: I have ridden the Nitro Swindle for a few years now and it’s just the perfect board for me. It has zero camber so I can press with ease, but it still holds up for jumps. The Swindle has loads of pop and is a good width under feet. It also has the rail killer edge so no blow-outs when hitting rails. God save the Swindle! Any tuning techniques: I always give my board a good detune before riding it, no catching edges and hang-ups. Oh, and a hot wax every few days to keep my speed for the gates.
Cap straps are basically a cup that goes over the front toe region of the boot. The purpose of the cap strap is to press the foot back and into the binding without the pressure that the normal top strap exerts on the front of the foot. Cap straps allow for a tighter fit into bindings and help alleviate foot pain at the same time. Originally designed by Technine, many manufacturers have since followed suit and offer the option of cap straps.
MODEL: Targa PRICE: $429.00
MODEL: United PRICE: $299.00
What do you like about your bindings: I would have to say that I like my bindings because of the dual airbags in the heel and toe. Raiden have also put slits in the toe and heel straps to make them super comfy. Oh, and they are bright orange! Toecap straps or foot straps on your bindings: I use a toecap strap combo on my bindings. They have a split in them so they mould over your toe. But because they are not caps you can still use them on the top of the foot too. Any forward lean: I always put two degrees of forward lean on my high backs. It really helps with your turning and board control. Forward lean just makes your board more responsive and better for stunts. How do you like your boots to fit: My boots have to fit like a glove. It’s really important to get the correct size and fit when it comes to boots. Do you use mouldable innersoles or liners: All Nitro boots have heat-mouldable liners so it speeds up the fitting process. I also have custommade foot beds, which make a huge difference in comfort and support. I strongly recommend getting them. Best tip for someone setting up a board: Best tip for setting up your board would be to just keep playing around with it. Change something and then take a few runs and see if it works for you. Might take a bit of time, but it’s worth it in the long run. What’s hot this year on the hill: Red beards, face paint, tiger and leopard patterns, really big headphones, beef jerky and leaving the top layer of a die-cut sticker on your board (you know who you are!). www.snowboardermag.com.au
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