I have been snowboarding for only about 11 years. Before that, I grew up as a skier my whole life. I got my first snowboard in 2015. It was a Libtech TRS 157. This board defined the type of rider I would become. The TRS is a stiff and aggressive board. It provides stability at speed and holds a great edge in variable terrain. This allowed me to go into terrain that was way above my comfort level and really work on my edge control (no matter how long it took me to get down the mountain). Fast forward to today, and this style of riding really shows in how I approach the mountain.
The next board that I got was a 2020 Libtech T.Rice Pro 157. This board was meant to replace my TRS (which was and still is in great condition). I ended up doing the exact opposite of what that board is meant to do. I picked up riding in the terrain park by putting most of my time into learning tricks on rails. Quickly, I learned that hitting rails on this board was not a good idea, as it was so stiff that I would almost bounce off trying to boardslide. This board did not last too long, as the mounting holes were pulled out from the base after a couple of years.
After buying my second Libtech, I was addicted. I started to buy an assortment of snowboards, both used and new. After purchasing a used Never Summer Shaper 154, I really started to enjoy how the Never Summer board felt. The purchase that pushed my riding style the most was a 2022 Never Summer Harpoon 159. I still ride this board to this day and really enjoy it. However, after years of abuse, it was time for a refresh. I purchased a 2025 GNU Banked Country in pursuit of the feeling that I had felt with my first Libtech (GNU is part of the Libtech umbrella of businesses known as Mervin Manufacturing). I proceeded to snap not one, but two GNU Banked Countries within a month’s span.
The path was clear for me after this. It was time to continue down the Never Summer path. I purchased a 2026 Never Summer Proto T3 161W. Riding this board made me feel at home. It was the perfect mixture of an aggressive riding style but it still had the playful and floaty feeling that rocker-style boards have. The biggest thing that I have learned from purchasing over 10 snowboards in the past 11 years is that you need to experiment with different things until you find what you like. I have boards ranging from 164W down to 147 and enjoy both. Every board has a place (except if it breaks on you after 2 days).
What is your favorite type of snowboard or ski brand?
Check out the Never Summer website HERE.
Check out the Libtech website HERE.
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