#9 on this list
Custom Flying V Snowboard
Burton
The Burton Custom Flying V is a time-tested all-mountain icon configured with a relaxed, hybrid rocker profile. While the traditional full-camber Custom is famed for its rigid, unforgiving precision, the Flying V iteration swaps in rocker zones between and outside your feet, with subtle camber pockets beneath the bindings. The result is a fluid, catch-free ride that excels across casual resort laps, soft snow, and loose, surfy turns. This board shines in mixed terrain and light powder where traditional camber can sometimes feel grabby. The central rocker allows the board to pivot on a dime, making short-radius adjustments in tight trees or slushy bumps feel nearly effortless. Inside, Burton's high-grade wood core keeps the weight down and preserves a lively spring, making side hits and small park jumps intuitive and accessible for riders spanning a broad range of skill levels. The primary drawback of the Flying V profile is its reduced bite on bulletproof, hardpack snow. Without continuous camber pushing the edges firmly into the ice, the contact points can feel vague when attempting to lock into high-speed, aggressive carves. Riders who frequent icy East Coast conditions or demand unshakable edge security will likely prefer a fully cambered alternative. **Highlights** - Flying V hybrid profile combines central rocker with underfoot camber - Highly forgiving, catch-free feel through bumps and slush - Effortless float in soft snow without requiring massive rear setbacks - Lightweight core construction keeps swing weight to a minimum - Versatile all-mountain shape that handles casual park and groomer laps **Watch-outs** - Noticeably less edge grip and bite on firm, icy terrain - Can feel loose and washy at high speeds on hardpack - Requires Channel-compatible bindings for proper mounting
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#10 on this list
Merc
Nidecker
The Nidecker Merc is a versatile, directional twin designed as a reliable daily driver for progressing riders and budget-conscious all-mountain enthusiasts. Prioritizing ease of use, predictable response, and all-day comfort, the Merc strips away niche design quirks in favor of a balanced platform that performs consistently whether you are navigating green cruisers, open powder bowls, or choppy resort tracks. Underneath, the Merc utilizes Nidecker's hybrid camber profile, which positions stable camber between the bindings and gradual rocker toward the nose and tail. This setup gives the rider enough edge grip to carve securely while lifting the contact points just enough to prevent sudden edge catches on flat terrain. A slight directional setback assists with float in fresh snow, while the symmetrical flex still lets you spin, ride switch, and play around on natural features without fighting the board's shape. While the Merc does almost everything well, it does not possess the elite stiffness or dampening found in premium-priced freeride boards. When pushed to top speeds on steep, heavily rutted runs, the nose displays some vibration and the core lacks the brute shock absorption of higher-end laminates. For everyday resort exploration and skill building, however, it remains an exceptionally approachable and balanced option. **Highlights** - Balanced hybrid profile offers reliable edge hold with catch-free tips - Directional twin layout allows for seamless switch riding and all-mountain flow - Approachable medium flex suits progressing riders and relaxed cruisers - Modest stance setback helps with powder floatation without compromising balance - Accessible price point offers high value for a multi-condition deck **Watch-outs** - Structural dampening is limited at extreme, high-speed descents - Lacks the high-octane pop of high-end, carbon-loaded alternatives - Moderate flex limits stability on very steep, icy terrain
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Custom Flying V Snowboard | Merc |
|---|---|---|
| Profile | Hybrid rocker-camber (Flying V) | Hybrid camber with rockered tip and tail |
| Shape | Directional twin | Directional twin with subtle setback |
| Flex | Medium flex | Medium (around 5 to 6 out of 10) |
| Mounting System | The Channel mounting system | — |
| Base | Sintered WFO base | — |
| Core | FSC-certified dual-zone wood core | — |
| Riding Level | — | Beginner-intermediate to advanced-casual |
| Core Material | — | Multi-species poplar and paulownia wood core |
| Terrain Bias | — | All-mountain resort, groomers, and light powder |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Custom Flying V Snowboard
- Forgiving rocker profile significantly reduces edge catches in slush and crud
- Effortless low-speed pivotability in tight trees and mogul lines
- Generates natural float in fresh powder without severe setback
- Infinite stance adjustments available through The Channel system
- Compromised edge hold and stability on bulletproof ice and hardpack
- Prone to high-speed tip chatter when railing aggressive carves
- Requires Channel-compatible mounting discs for non-Burton bindings
Merc
- Forgiving hybrid profile resists edge catches while keeping solid edge hold
- Balanced directional twin shape transitions smoothly between forward and switch
- Low-fatigue medium flex makes turn initiation easy for progressing riders
- High overall durability and low-maintenance base offer solid long-term value
- Tips vibrate and chatter when pushed at high speeds through hard chop
- Lacks the explosive pop and energy of stiffer, carbon-loaded boards
- Edge hold can slip on sheer, boilerplate ice
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.