The Never Summer V-Twin is quickly becoming recognized as an effortless performer on the slopes, providing a level of response that can surprise its riders. "This board responds to the slightest energy you give it," remarked one satisfied rider. However, it has its quirks; too much enthusiasm can lead to overwhelming experiences, prompting riders to master the art of finesse to truly enjoy its capabilities.
Positioned as an all-mountain-freestyle snowboard, the V-Twin allows riders to explore the entire mountain while favoring freestyle tricks. In the latest assessment, it received a score of 86.7 out of 100, ranking 12th amongst 33 all-mountain-freestyle snowboards examined in a comparative analysis.
The V-Twin is priced at $699, offering what many consider a solid investment for versatility. With a medium flex rating of 6/10, its on-snow feel is categorized as mid-soft at 4.5/10. The construction features a hybrid rocker profile that incorporates Never Summer's unique "Triple Camber" technology, enhancing its adaptive capabilities across varied terrain.
"This board is ideal for those who want to get creative and playful all over the mountain," noted an experienced snowboarder during testing. The true twin shape and centered stance make it particularly well-suited for park laps, complemented by its responsiveness for side-hits and natural features like trees and jumps. Nevertheless, seasoned riders advise against it for those primarily seeking speed and carving. While it isn't utterly ineffective in these areas, it reaches its limitations quite quickly.
More so, it is worth highlighting that the V-Twin isn't designed for beginners. "It's not that it’s hard to ride, but it requires a finer touch that can take time to develop," explained a veteran snowboard instructor. Those who have not yet honed their skills to create a delicate balance might find themselves overwhelmed, resulting in an unsatisfying experience.
Testing conditions for the board occurred on February 26, 2024, revealing a mixture of overhead clouds with visibility holding at 90%. The snow conditions varied, with some hard and chunky areas juxtaposed against pockets of shallow powder. Riders experienced morning temperatures around -7°C, translating to 19°F, while afternoon readings dropped slightly. Despite the chilly measurement, many riders found joy in the board's handling across different conditions.
The specifications further reveal the V-Twin's versatility. The board is available in various sizes, catering to a range of weights. For instance, the 157 cm version is designed for riders weighing between 140-180 lbs. With a slightly lighter weight perception, riders reported that the board is manageable and easy to maneuver.
The setup for testing featured binding angles of +15/-15 with a stance width of 575mm. Using the Burton Malavita bindings, the testers noted that rider feedback was overall positive, particularly in maneuverability and comfort.
As the winter season progresses, the Never Summer V-Twin will likely remain a top choice for those looking to add flair to their mountain exploits. Its playful nature combined with thoughtful engineering positions it uniquely for all-mountain fun, solidifying its reputation among riders who value creativity on their boards.
For those contemplating a purchase, understanding the need for finesse and control will be crucial. The V-Twin may prove an exhilarating challenge for those ready to engage fully with its responsive design, making it a noteworthy option as the season continues.