4 February 2013, 00:00
The snowboard manufacturers at ISPO MUNICH 2013 present their extensive product portfolios. Clever hybrid models, combining Rocker and Camber construction elements in various ways, are more individual than ever and satisfy an increasing number of demands. This not only applies to style and skill, but also to physical features. Gone are the days when only tall guys with large feet found boards wide enough to avoid overhanging toes – in addition to standard widths, Völkl, for example, offers four versions from narrow to extra-wide. And girls who have less than dainty feet, can enjoy boards for the women’s segment, such as the Hellcat by Ride. In addition, spaceflight technology makes snowboards lighter than ever, without compromising riding stability. Clever shaping makes it possible to apply the edge grip and stability of a longer board to a shorter, and thus more agile board.
Splitboards, the third. Thanks to new, sophisticated technologies the splitboard continues its advance in the third year after its revival. Not only specialists offer these practical detachable boards to enjoy touring off the beaten track, suitable for ascents and downhill runs like touring skis. The most spectacular new product in this segment is the Kwicker by K2. It is a fully integrated system consisting of board, binding and boots. Its binding alone is 1.8 kilos lighter than those on comparable systems. The changeover between board and skis is extremely userfriendly and takes only half as much time as compared to others. Yet the splitting function is not the only element where splitboards have made a step forward. Riding characteristics have improved as well. Rossignol, for example, combines
traditional pre-tension with a tip-tail Rocker. This makes the board more stable in its tip, and it rides well even in difficult snow conditions. Yet, overall it is agile and easy to maneuver.
The new longboards are also a result of the Freeride trend. Almost every manufacturer will have them in their product portfolio for the next winter. Board lengths of up to two meters will generate real surfing experiences in powder.
Snowkite boards are establishing a new sector. In particular, Bavarian manufacturer Goodboards, whose passion is to build “aesthetic, hand-crafted boards for adults”, focuses boards for those who like to be driven by wind. Typical for Snowkite boards is the less-shaped backside edge, making a quieter ride without drifting possible, as well as the twin-tip shape, allowing the same good performance in both directions. A wavy backside edge provides the perfect edge grip, while the sintered running surface generates speed.
Snowboard manufacturers in general are continuing to subscribe to the motto ecofriendly. Surfaces on many models are produced with a green consciousness, but that’s not all. Hardwood laminates instead of fiberglass, edges made of recycled steel or natural wax products are more and more common. Eco-friendly, black running surfaces increasingly replace colored board undersides.
From a viewpoint of appearance, the portfolio covers anything from unembellished, one-color boards to detail-loving prints across the entire surface. Snowboard pros, photographers and artists turn sports equipment into works of art: clean black and white photos, strong color explosions or playful animal designs. Wood tends to catch the eye – designers use imitation as well as genuine wood. In addition, linen and hemp replace less eco-friendly plastic materials.
The new bindings are extremely colorful. Colors are not the only new feature, or stylish variations like transparent synthetic elements. Shock absorption systems in the heel and toe area are becoming more advanced and more comfortable, and guarantee great riding even on long days on the board. Airbag systems like the one on the Nitro protect joints even during hard landings on ice. Small binding plates provide an enlarged dampening area as well as more agility on the board. Manufacturers fine-tuned details for comfortable and easy binding adjustment, and improved the simplicity of opening and closing binding straps. The trend continues towards extremely light, flexible, yet also stable urethane highbacks. Freestyles have even more fun in the snow with the help of skateboard-inspired technology. In combination with the right boot they offer the perfect symbiosis for safe support and relaxed riding performance. Boa systems add extra comfort to almost all models. In some models, a special Boa wheel even keeps the tongue in place.
ISPO MUNICH 2013 is held from February 3 to 6, 2013 at Messe München. For more information on ISPO MUNICH as well as the complete side event program, please refer to www.ispo.com/munich. Photos for download are available at the image archive.
Maud von Hoff
Projekt-PR Referentin
Tel. +49 89 949-21473
maud.hoff@messe-muenchen.de
Source: Messe München; IFAT