The Best Snowboards For Buttering in 2024
Buttering on a snowboard is an art form, blending style, grace, and technical skill to create mesmerizing tricks and turns on the slopes. This guide is carefully crafted for those passionate about mastering this aspect of snowboarding, whether you’re a seasoned pro seeking to refine your craft or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes. Each board has been selected for its unique attributes that contribute to a seamless buttering experience, encompassing flexibility, stability, and control among other critical features. Our aim is not just to inform but to inspire, guiding you through the intricate journey of choosing a board that resonates with your style and ambition.
The Best Snowboards Buttering Reviewed by KALOOK
Each board has been selected for its unique attributes that contribute to a seamless buttering experience, encompassing flexibility, stability, and control among other critical features. Our aim is not just to inform but to inspire, guiding you through the intricate journey of choosing a board that resonates with your style and ambition.
1. Bataleon Disaster + Snowboard 2024
The Bataleon Disaster + Snowboard 2024 emerges as a beacon for buttering enthusiasts, striking a perfect harmony between innovation and performance. Revered for its groundbreaking design, this board is a testament to the joy and creativity that snowboarding embodies. It’s the board that invites riders to push the boundaries of what’s possible on snow, facilitating buttering tricks with an ease and flair unmatched by its contemporaries. Whether carving through fresh powder or dazzling onlookers in the park, the Bataleon Disaster + ensures every moment is filled with thrill and finesse. Its popularity stems from this versatility and the unmistakable joy it brings to riders of all levels.
Key Features
- Flex: The board boasts a medium-soft flex, offering a blend of flexibility and support ideal for buttering and freestyle maneuvers.
- Pop: Engineered for dynamic lift-off, the pop on this board is responsive and energetic, enhancing aerial tricks and jumps.
- Stability: Despite its playful flex, it maintains commendable stability at higher speeds and on varied terrain.
- Control: Exceptional edge control and responsiveness ensure riders can execute precise movements and transitions.
Specifications
- Flex:
- Medium-Soft
- Shape:
- True Twin
- Base:
- Super slick X
- Core Materials:
- 100% Poplar core
- Special Features:
- Triple Base Technology (3BT), SideKick Tips, and D.R.S.T.
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The Bataleon Disaster + Snowboard 2024 is a dream for riders who revel in the freedom and creativity of buttering and freestyle snowboarding. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a board that offers flexibility without sacrificing pop or stability. Whether you’re looking to add a playful twist to your downhill runs or dominate in the park, this board is your ally. Its forgiving nature makes it an excellent choice for intermediates aiming to elevate their skills, yet it packs enough performance features to satisfy the demands of more advanced riders looking for a fun, versatile board.
The Good
- Exceptional flexibility tailored for buttering and freestyle.
- High-quality pop facilitates aerial tricks.
- Maintains stability across a variety of conditions.
- Innovative technology enhances control and maneuverability.
The Bad
- Medium-soft flex may not be ideal for those who prefer stiffer boards for aggressive riding.
- Specialized shape and features might take time to adjust for beginners.
Best Value
2. CAPiTA Ultrafear Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024 (Best Overall)
In the pantheon of snowboarding, the CAPiTA Ultrafear Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024 carves its niche as a harbinger of fearlessness and flair. Renowned for its tenure in the spotlight of freestyle and park arenas, this board encapsulates the essence of bold, creative expression on snow. The Ultrafear’s reverse camber profile is a clarion call to those who live to defy gravity and bend the rules of physics, offering an unparalleled platform for trick innovation and execution. Its cult following stems from a blend of durability, performance, and a distinctive aesthetic that screams personality. Riders cherish the Ultrafear for its commitment to pushing the limits of what’s possible, making every session an opportunity for legendary status.
Key Features
- Flex: Sporting a medium flex, the Ultrafear strikes a perfect balance between playful buttering capability and the stiffness needed for hitting big features.
- Pop: Equipped with a custom-designed core that maximizes energy return, this board delivers exceptional pop, heightening the thrill of every air.
- Stability: The reverse camber, in tandem with specialized sidecuts and reinforcements, provides a stable platform that handles speed and technical tricks with aplomb.
- Control: Precision in control is the Ultrafear’s hallmark, allowing riders to dial in their maneuvers with confidence and finesse.
Specifications
- Flex:
- Medium
- Shape:
- True Twin
- Base:
- Quantum Drive™ Base
- Core Materials:
- Dual Blaster Ashpop Core™
- Special Features:
- Kevlar/Titanium Body
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The CAPiTA Ultrafear Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024 is the epitome of a freestyle warrior’s dream, catering to the rider who isn’t afraid to stand out and push boundaries. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a board that offers the freedom to explore a variety of styles, from ground tricks and buttering to ambitious aerials. Its medium flex appeals to a wide range of abilities, providing enough forgiveness for playful experimentation while still offering the stability required for more aggressive endeavors. Whether you’re an aspiring freestyle aficionado or a park veteran, the Ultrafear promises to elevate your performance and style.
The Good
- Unmatched pop and energy return make for thrilling jumps and tricks.
- True Twin shape and medium flex offer a balanced, versatile ride.
- Enhanced durability and shock absorption cater to aggressive riding styles.
- Eco-friendly construction materials reflect a commitment to sustainability.
The Bad
- The focused nature on freestyle might not appeal to riders looking for a purely all-mountain experience.
- Medium flex may not satisfy those in search of a softer, more forgiving board for beginner-level buttering.
Best Value
3. Never Summer Proto Synthesis Snowboard (Most Premium)
The Never Summer Proto Synthesis Snowboard 2024 encapsulates the essence of evolution in snowboarding. As the latest iteration in the revered Proto series, this board is a masterpiece of design and engineering, crafted for those who seek to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible on snow. Known for its harmonious blend of agility, precision, and power, the Proto Synthesis is a beacon of innovation, offering an unparalleled riding experience. It’s the board of choice for riders who demand excellence in every aspect, from carving crisp lines on morning groomers to executing gravity-defying tricks in the park. The love for the Proto Synthesis stems from its ability to deliver a cutting-edge performance wrapped in a package of reliability and style, making every snowboarding session an exploration of potential.
Key Features
- Flex: It features a harmonious medium flex, providing a perfect blend of responsiveness and playfulness.
- Pop: The Proto Synthesis is renowned for its explosive pop, courtesy of its high-tech core and camber profile, launching riders to new heights.
- Stability: Built with Never Summer’s proprietary construction techniques, this board offers unmatched stability at high speeds and in varied snow conditions.
- Control: Precision control is at the forefront, with innovative edge technology ensuring crisp, clean turns and maneuvers.
Specifications
- Flex:
- Medium
- Shape:
- Directional Twin
- Base:
- Durasurf XT Sintered 5501 Base
- Core Materials:
- NS SuperLight Wood Core
- Special Features:
- Carbon Max
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The Never Summer Proto Synthesis Snowboard 2024 is crafted for the rider who refuses to compromise, seeking a board that excels in all conditions and terrains. Its medium flex and directional twin shape make it incredibly versatile, equally at home on steep, technical runs as it is in the park. Whether you’re an intermediate rider looking to step up your game or an advanced snowboarder demanding the best in performance and technology, the Proto Synthesis will not disappoint. It’s a board that inspires confidence and progression, inviting riders to push their limits and explore new dimensions of their snowboarding.
The Good
- Outstanding pop and responsiveness enhance aerial maneuvers and technical tricks.
- Exceptional stability and damping systems provide a smooth ride on diverse terrains.
- Advanced edge control technology allows for precise, sharp turns.
- Sustainable and durable construction materials reflect a commitment to quality and environmental stewardship.
The Bad
- The performance features and technology might present a steeper learning curve for absolute beginners.
- Its versatility across conditions may lead some riders to prefer more specialized boards for niche snowboarding styles.
Best Value
4. CAPiTA Pathfinder Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024
The CAPiTA Pathfinder Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024 stands out as a true adventurer’s choice, embracing the spirit of exploration with every carve and turn. Designed for those who dare to tread where others might not, this board is celebrated for its exceptional adaptability and innovative reverse camber profile. It’s a board that promises to transform ordinary snow days into extraordinary journeys, offering a ride that’s as forgiving as it is thrilling. The Pathfinder’s allure lies in its ability to make every rider feel like a seasoned explorer, capable of navigating the most challenging terrains with ease and confidence. Its reverse camber not only enhances buttering and freestyle maneuvers but also ensures a smooth, catch-free experience, making it a beloved choice among both novices and experts.
Key Features
- Flex: This board features a soft to medium flex, optimizing it for creative freestyle and buttering while ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Pop: The Pathfinder is built with a high-energy core that delivers explosive pop, making every jump and trick more exhilarating.
- Stability: Its reverse camber profile and strategic reinforcements provide exceptional stability, even in soft snow or rough conditions.
- Control: Enhanced edge control and a forgiving ride characteristic make this board a master of both precision and playfulness.
Specifications
- Flex:
- Soft-Medium
- Shape:
- Directional
- Base:
- Superdrive™ EX base
- Core Materials:
- FSC® Certified Select Core™
- Special Features:
- Reverse camber for easy turns and buttering
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The CAPiTA Pathfinder Reverse Camber Snowboard 2024 is the perfect match for riders who prioritize fun, creativity, and exploration on the slopes. Its forgiving nature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their freestyle skills or master buttering techniques without compromising on stability or control. Beginners will appreciate the board’s ease of use, while intermediate and advanced riders will enjoy its playful flex and dynamic capabilities. If your snowboarding style is all about freedom, expression, and adventure, then the Pathfinder is designed with you in mind.
The Good
- The reverse camber profile offers a fun, playful ride ideal for buttering.
- Outstanding pop enhances freestyle performance.
- Durable and reliable construction ensures longevity.
- Forgiving and stable, suitable for a wide range of skill levels.
The Bad
- Directional shape may not be the first choice for those strictly looking for symmetrical freestyle performance.
- The soft-medium flex might not cater to riders seeking a board for aggressive, high-speed runs.
Best Value
5. Men’s Burton Custom Flying V Snowboard
The Men’s Burton Custom Flying V Snowboard 2024 continues to uphold its legendary status in the snowboarding world, blending time-tested performance with innovative technology. As Burton’s flagship all-mountain board, the Custom Flying V is a symphony of versatility, offering an exhilarating ride on any terrain, under any conditions. It’s revered by riders for its Flying V profile, which combines the playfulness of rocker with the precision of camber, catering to a wide spectrum of snowboarding styles from powder runs to park laps. The love for the Custom Flying V stems from its ability to adapt and excel, making it a quintessential choice for riders seeking a one-board quiver.
Key Features
- Flex: The board showcases a medium flex, balancing playfulness with responsiveness for a versatile all-mountain performance.
- Pop: Its strategic core profiling and lightweight materials ensure lively pop, enhancing ollies and jump performance.
- Stability: The hybrid Flying V profile offers stability in variable conditions, ensuring confidence at speed and in technical terrains.
- Control: Enhanced edge control, thanks to Burton’s Frostbite Edges, allows for precise carving and turns in hardpack and icy conditions.
Specifications
- Flex Rating:
- Medium
- Shape:
- Directional Shape with a Twin Flex
- Base:
- Sintered WFO Base
- Core Materials:
- FSC™ Certified Super Fly II™ 700G Core with Dualzone™ EGD™
- Special Features:
- The Flying V profile for versatile performance
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The Men’s Burton Custom Flying V Snowboard 2024 is designed for the rider who desires a single board to tackle the entire mountain. Its medium flex and versatile profile make it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced riders who do not want to be limited by their equipment. Whether carving up groomers, floating through powder, or hitting the park, the Custom Flying V adapts to the challenges and joys of the mountain with ease. It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate Burton’s commitment to quality and innovation, as well as the sustainable aspects of their manufacturing process.
The Good
- Exceptional versatility across all types of terrain and conditions.
- The Flying V profile provides a perfect blend of playfulness and precision.
- High-quality construction materials ensure durability and consistent performance.
- Innovative technology like Squeezebox and Frostbite Edges enhance control and responsiveness.
The Bad
- The hybrid profile might take some adjustment for riders used to traditional camber or rocker boards.
- Its all-rounder nature may leave specialized riders seeking more targeted performance features.
Best Value
6. Lib Tech Skate Banana BTX Snowboard 2024
The Lib Tech Skate Banana BTX Snowboard 2024 continues to ride the wave of revolutionary design that has made it a perennial favorite among snowboarders looking for a fun, versatile, and forgiving board. Since its inception, the Skate Banana has stood out for its playful nature, primarily due to its innovative Banana Technology (BTX) profile, which combines mild camber underfoot with a more pronounced rocker between the feet. This unique blend delivers an exceptionally fun ride on all types of terrain, from park laps to powdery descents, making it a go-to board for riders seeking a blend of performance and play. The Skate Banana’s reputation for versatility and reliability makes it a beloved choice for both beginners and experienced snowboarders alike, offering an enjoyable ride regardless of conditions.
Key Features
- Flex: Featuring a soft to medium flex, the Skate Banana is both forgiving and versatile, perfect for creative riding.
- Pop: Despite its softer flex, the board is designed to provide a satisfying pop, making it suitable for tricks and jumps.
- Stability: The BTX profile ensures a stable ride even in softer snow, while also being agile and responsive on groomers and in the park.
- Control: Magna-Traction edge technology provides exceptional edge hold on icy and hardpack conditions, enhancing rider control.
Specifications
- Flex:
- Soft-Medium
- Shape:
- True Twin
- Base:
- Eco Sublimated TNT
- Core Materials:
- Original Power Construction – Light
- Special Features:
- Banana Technology (BTX) for versatility
KALOOK Rating
Who Is It Good For
The Lib Tech Skate Banana BTX Snowboard 2024 is tailor-made for the snowboarder who values fun, creativity, and a forgiving ride above all. It’s particularly appealing to beginners due to its easy-to-ride nature, as well as intermediate riders looking to push their skills in freestyle and all-mountain riding. The board’s innovative features make it a standout choice for those who face a variety of conditions and prefer a board that can handle everything from icy runs to fluffy powder with ease and confidence. The Skate Banana is a testament to Lib Tech’s commitment to producing rider-friendly, high-performance snowboards.
The Good
- Excellent versatility across a wide range of conditions.
- Banana Technology provides a fun, playful ride with great float in powder.
- Magna-Traction edges offer superior grip on icy slopes.
- Eco-conscious construction speaks to riders who prioritize environmental sustainability.
The Bad
- Riders looking for a stiff, aggressive board for high-speed carving may find the Skate Banana too playful.
- Its focus on fun and forgiveness might not meet the demands of those seeking a purely performance-oriented board.
Best Value
FAQ
A good buttering snowboard typically has a softer flex, which allows for easier bending and manipulation of the board. It also features a forgiving shape, such as a true twin, and may incorporate specific technology like rocker profiles or flexible core materials to aid in performing butter tricks.
Yes, beginners can learn to butter on these boards, especially those designed with a softer flex and forgiving features. Some boards are more beginner-friendly, offering a combination of stability and flexibility that makes learning buttering and other freestyle tricks more accessible.
While these boards excel in park riding and buttering due to their design and features, many are versatile enough for all-mountain riding. They can perform well on groomers, powder, and varied terrain, making them a great all-around choice for snowboarders.
The shape of the snowboard plays a significant role in buttering. A true twin shape is often preferred for its balance and symmetry, making it easier to ride in either direction. This is beneficial for tricks that involve switch riding or require a balanced stance.
Camber profiles offer a spring-like feel with more edge grip, ideal for powerful turns and pop. Rocker profiles provide a surf-like ride, with easier turn initiation and better float in powder. Hybrid profiles combine elements of both, offering a balance of playfulness and precision, often with specific areas of camber and rocker to enhance performance in various conditions.
Choosing the right size for buttering involves considering your weight, height, and the type of riding you’ll be doing. Generally, a slightly shorter board can make buttering easier due to its maneuverability and ease of initiating turns. However, it’s essential to refer to the manufacturer’s size chart and recommendations.
While designed with a focus on flexibility and playfulness, many of the snowboards featured can handle high speeds and aggressive riding to a certain extent. Boards with medium flex and additional technology for stability and edge hold can perform well under more aggressive riding styles.
Regular maintenance includes waxing the base, sharpening the edges, and checking for any damage that might need repair. It’s also recommended to store your snowboard in a cool, dry place during the off-season to prevent damage.
Yes, certain bindings pair better with snowboards designed for buttering and freestyle riding. Look for bindings that offer a balance of flexibility and support, with features like a softer highback and comfortable straps to enhance your ability to perform tricks and maintain control.
Many ski resorts and specialty snowboard shops offer demo days or rental options where you can test different snowboards before making a purchase. This is a great way to get a feel for how a board performs and whether it suits your riding style.
