The Never Summer Valhalla snowboard has earned a reputation as a formidable presence on the mountains, touted as a 'destroyer of mountains, take no prisoners, beast of a snowboard.' However, beyond its aggressive design and reputation lies a more nuanced character that deserves attention. The Valhalla delivers an unexpected versatility, proving adept in a variety of riding conditions and styles.
When assessing the Valhalla as a freeride snowboard, it’s crucial to recognize its capabilities in performance and handling. In a recent evaluation conducted at SnowboardingProfiles.com, the Valhalla earned a remarkable score of 90.8 out of 100, highlighting its impressive standing among other freeride boards. "It ranked 2nd out of 27 models we tested," shared the review team, emphasizing this snowboard's competitive edge in the market.
The Valhalla is not just about raw power; it is designed for those who enjoy carving and navigating powder while maintaining the flexibility to engage in side-hits and jumps. With a price tag of $709, riders get a stunning mix of strength and playfulness without feeling cumbersome even at slower speeds. "It's best suited for advanced to expert riders who are physically strong and well-conditioned for snowboarding," noted the review.
Looking closely at the Valhalla’s specifications reveals its robust character. This board features a stiff flex rating of 8.5 out of 10, with a mid-stiff feel on snow rated at 7 out of 10. Furthermore, it employs a hybrid camber profile known as the 'Triple Camber Hybrid,' complemented by a tapered directional shape. "It’s a semi-locked in feel," explained one of the testers, indicating a stability that enhances performance while navigating varied terrains.
The Valhalla’s dimensions cater to a range of riders, with sizes accommodating weights from 100 to over 240 pounds across lengths from 147 cm to 164 cm. The snowboard's base is crafted from Never Summer’s premium Durasurf XT Sintered 5501 material, promising durability and speed, crucial for aggressive rides.
Conditions during testing were favorable; the demo took place on February 26, 2024, under mostly sunny skies with a temperature hovering around -9°C. Visibility was nearly perfect at 90%, allowing for an authentic experience on the slopes. "On groomers, it was dust on crust for the most part, nice in places, especially further up the mountain," one rider reported. Pockets of powder and some icy patches presented both challenges and opportunities to showcase the board’s capabilities.
The set-up for testing included a stance width of 575 mm with a setback of 25 mm, and riders equipped the Valhalla with bindings angled at +15/-15. This configuration is designed to enhance turn initiations and stability at high speeds.
With all its advantages, the Valhalla is an intriguing option for snowboarders seeking a high-performance board that excels in freeriding environments. Its impressive specs and versatility make it a great addition to an advanced rider's quiver. "Whether you’re carving down groomers or navigating backcountry powder, this board exhibits exceptional agility," summarized a team member after the review.
Looking ahead, the outlook for the Never Summer Valhalla remains bright within the competitive snowboard market. As enthusiasts seek equipment that not only empowers aggressive riding but also offers a manageable feel during slower maneuvers, the Valhalla stands out as a top choice. Its balance of power and sensitivity may continue to attract serious snowboarders eager to conquer the slopes with confidence.