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As an advanced snowboarder, you know the importance of having the right gear for a successful day on the mountain. Freeride snowboarding requires a board that will handle high speeds, variable terrain, and challenging conditions. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best freeride snowboard for your needs.
In this blog post, we will explore two popular freeride snowboards, the Burton Custom X and the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca, and determine which one is the best choice for advanced riders.
The Burton Custom X
The Burton Custom X is a well-known name in the snowboarding world, and for good reason. This board is designed for advanced riders who want to push their limits on the mountain. The directional shape, camber profile, and responsive flex make it a great choice for freeride terrain.
One of the key features of the Burton Custom X is its camber profile. The board has traditional camber between the bindings, which provides excellent edge hold and pop, while the rocker in the nose and tail offers floatation and maneuverability in deeper snow. This combination of camber and rocker makes the board versatile in a variety of conditions.
The directional shape of the Burton Custom X also contributes to its freeride performance. The board has a tapered tail, which helps to initiate turns and provides stability and control at high speeds. The set-back stance enhances floatation in powder and allows you to ride switch when needed.
Finally, the Burton Custom X has a stiff flex, which offers stability and response in challenging terrain. The board is designed to handle high speeds, big drops, and aggressive riding. However, this stiffness can make it less forgiving and more difficult to ride for less experienced riders.
Pros of the Burton Custom X
– Excellent edge hold and pop
– Versatile camber and rocker profile
– Directional shape for stability and control
– Stiff flex for stability and response
– Designed for advanced riders
Cons of the Burton Custom X
– Less forgiving for less experienced riders
– Expensive compared to other options
– May feel too stiff for some riders
The Lib Tech T. Rice Orca
The Lib Tech T. Rice Orca is a relative newcomer to the freeride snowboarding scene, but it has quickly gained a following among advanced riders. This board is designed in collaboration with pro snowboarder Travis Rice and is marketed as a “powder board” that can handle any terrain.
The T. Rice Orca has a unique profile that sets it apart from other freeride snowboards. The board has a pronounced rocker between the bindings and a flat zone underfoot, which provides stability and edge hold. The board also has a medium flex, which enhances its versatility and playfulness.
The T. Rice Orca is designed to float in powder, which is why it has a wider nose and tail than most freeride snowboards. This feature allows you to ride faster and smoother in deeper snow, without sacrificing control or agility.
Despite its powder-centric design, the T. Rice Orca performs well on groomed runs and variable terrain. The board’s shape and profile make it easy to initiate turns, while the medium flex provides a forgiving ride. However, the board may not handle high speeds and aggressive riding as well as the Burton Custom X.
Pros of the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca
– Unique rocker and flat profile for stability and edge hold
– Medium flex for versatility and playfulness
– Wider nose and tail for floatation in powder
– Easy to initiate turns and ride in variable terrain
– Forgiving ride
Cons of the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca
– May not handle high speeds and aggressive riding as well as the Burton Custom X
– Powder-centric design may not be ideal for all mountain riding
– Expensive compared to other options
Which one is the best choice for advanced riders?
Both the Burton Custom X and the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca are excellent freeride snowboards that are designed for advanced riders. However, which one is the best choice for you depends on your personal preferences and riding style.
If you prefer a board that can handle high speeds and aggressive riding, the Burton Custom X is the clear winner. Its directional shape, camber profile, and stiff flex make it a great choice for variable terrain and challenging conditions. However, the Burton Custom X may feel too stiff for some riders, and its price tag may be prohibitive for others.
On the other hand, if you prioritize powder performance and a forgiving ride, the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca is the best choice. Its unique rocker and flat profile, wider nose and tail, and medium flex make it a favorite among freeride enthusiasts. However, the T. Rice Orca may not handle high speeds and aggressive riding as well as the Burton Custom X, and its powder-centric design may not be ideal for all-mountain riding.
Ultimately, the best freeride snowboard for advanced riders is the one that suits your needs and riding style the most. Both the Burton Custom X and the Lib Tech T. Rice Orca are excellent options that are worth considering. It’s up to you to decide which one is the best choice for your next ride.
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