Heli-Snowboarding: 5 Boards for Riders to Consider

A while back on the Last Frontier Heliskiing blog, we took a look at what makes a great heli snowboard, and some of the technical details that makes one board stand out from another. Now let’s look at five of the best out there. Here’s five snowboards you should be shredding next time you come heli boarding with us.

Jeremy Jones – Hovercraft

Jeremy Jones has been at the centre of big mountain snowboard riding now for as long as we can remember. Not surprisingly then, his go-to creation, the Hovercraft, is designed to perfection. The blunt nose and directional rocker keep you afloat in the deepest powder, and despite its short length (compared to previous classic powder boards) rear leg burn is minimal. For a board as short as this, it manages to pack in the volume of an old school long-board. And with the shortness comes the added degree of flexibility, and maneuverability, needed for hitting those tight, technical sections.

Prior’s Khyber

As the stick that we can provide (please give us notice if you require one for your stay) we believe in this board and its ripping qualities. All mountain versatility is brought together in a package that will lend itself to any level of rider. The Khyber, from deep BC powder, to choppy crud, can easily handle any condition. The large nose, big taper, and generous sidecut make this board stand out from others in its field.

Salomon – Sick Stick

The eco-friendly Sick Stick, introduced to the market in 2008, has picked up a loyal following in the past few years. Winning the Volvo Sports Design Award for Eco Design in the boardsports category in its first year, this powder-hungry board doesn’t compromise its ride. The bamboo laminates, as well as reinforcing the board, add a great deal of pop, and the tapered twin design let freestyle riders also enjoy the Sick Stick.

Ride – Slackcountry

The Slackcountry is one of those boards that can do it all. Although conditions are generally epic here when heli skiing in British Columbia, a board that can handle all variables is most valued, not only for heli-skiing, but everyday riding too. Without a tapered shape, or huge amount of setback, you do have to put pressure on the back foot to prevent the nose from diving in the powder. However, with the rocker beginning outside of the bindings, this never feels uncomfortable – actually making for quite a fun ride.

Gentemstick – TT 165 Classic

Standing far out from the crowd, Gentemstick snowboards, or “snowsurfboards” are exquisitely designed to give the rider the best sensation of floating through the snow that they have ever had. The classic TT, originally designed and manufactured in 1989 and 1990 respectively, still retains its classic lines, a design that has been labeled “Modern-classic”. As the board’s creator proclaims, this is not a powder only board, although the TT is happiest when the surface condition becomes uniform and smooth.