22/23 Test Day 31: Ride/K2/Lib Tech

We may be The Ski Monster, but we sell a whole lot more than just skis. This test day was all about our snowboarders. Neil and Dylan tested some new 2023 boards from Ride, K2 and Lib Tech. Conditions in the morning were frozen and crispy but softened up as the day went on and the sun stayed out. 

Former snowboard buyer Dylan spent most of the day on the K2 Manifest, a directional all-mountain board. “It feels comfortable and stable at high speeds and can hold an edge well, making it easy to cruise on,” he said. He would recommend it for an intermediate rider who is interested in growing their skills and wants something a little more playful. 

Neil, the current TSM snowboard buyer, started his day on the K2 Excavator -- a stiffer board with camber that he knew would ride better on the harder snow the trails had in the morning. Mid-day, he switched to the Ride Pyschocandy, which is similar in shape compared to the Excavator but is softer and flat underfoot. He enjoyed it most in the halfpipe, and on runs that were a little softer. 

Lastly, Neil tested out the Lib Tech Golden Orca. “This board was fun to slash some turns on when the snow was softer,” he said. He noted that it performed best under these conditions and wasn’t as good at arcing carves compared to other boards he rode that day. 

This day was a great opportunity to get out there and compare some boards from different brands under a range of conditions. All these boards will be available for purchase come next season. Stay tuned for full product reviews coming soon.