Newby board questions

[Michael 5 Posts]

If I normally ride a wide board at the resort do I still need a wide board for backcountry. Size 12.5 boot. Also do I go up a few sizes. I’m 6 foot 200 lbs. With a 12.5 boot and currently ride a never summer west 160 wide.
Thanks

[generalyen 52 Posts]

I recommend that you still ride a wide , and I would also recommend up sizing like 3-6cm. You will be carrying more weight into the backcountry, more weight means bigger board.

[Michael 5 Posts]

Thank you!! Great advice!!! Think I’m leaning toward the NS WestX 164 now. Found a 162 NS on the big auction site but the guy wanted way too much. Just out of curiosity is there a standard pack size most use? Won’t be doing any multiday stuff.

[generalyen 52 Posts]

I wouldn’t go any smaller than a 30L, I’ve got by with a 20L but it was tight.

[Live It 1 Posts]

I weigh 220 with size 13 boots and ride an Arbor Abacus 164. Its recommended up to 218lbs and is pretty good jack of all trades type of board. I wish the front binding could be set back a little bit more.

I guess it all depends on what type of riding you do. I plan on getting a Voile V Tail 190 for the wide open deep stuff. If that’s your thing wait a little while until the updated lighter/stronger version comes out later this year (supposedly). I’m also looking for something like a K2 Split Bean for the trees.

As for packs I’ve got a Black Diamond Jetforce 26L and it has plenty of room for full day trips. I plan on doing an overnighter with it this winter by strapping gear to the outside and wearing a small front pack. I went small on the pack so I could still ride on the lifts comfortably for side country days.

[Michael 5 Posts]

Thank you for all the feedback.

[generalyen 52 Posts]

What’s the profile of those never summer decks? Personally I’d stay away from a rocker/ hybrid for your first split. They tend to have less grip on the skin track than a camber board. If your committed to a rocker board then I’d recommend a skin that is geared more towards grip. Someone might disagree with me but this is just my personal experience.

[Scooby2 620 Posts]

I second the suggestion for high traction skins like Voile, Climbing skin direct, G3 high Traction etc. for starting out. Your skinning form wont be perfect and form will suffer as you build endurance (i.e. you’ll get happily trashed every tour 🙂

The other one of my 2 cents is that I’d pay no mind to whether a camber or rocker camber board skins better. Skinning happens slowly and really most all boards are rockered boards when a heavier rider stands on them.

[Michael 5 Posts]

Just curious what is a fair value for a 2014 Jones carbon solution used . Some wear.