Howler

Jones

The Jones Howler sits at the top of the heap thanks to wide acclaim across multiple major gear test outlets. Engineered as a high-velocity hybrid between an aggressive freestyle board and a technical carver, the Howler caters to experienced riders who demand instant response and unwavering edge bite. It bridges the gap between park power and freeride stability, making it ideal for resort riders who treat natural terrain features and steep groomers with equal aggression. On snow, the Howler rewards a centered, athletic stance. Its aggressive camber profile provides immense energy and rebound out of turns, while subtle traction tech along the edges ensures reliable hold on scraped-off hardpack and morning ice. It tracks cleanly at high speeds without the tip flap or chatter common to softer all-mountain boards. The trade-off is rider forgiveness: the Howler is not a casual cruiser. If you relax your form or miss a landing slightly off-axis, the stiff flex and sharp contact points will punish you. Construction is premium throughout, featuring a sustainably sourced wood core reinforced with targeted stringers to maximize torsional stiffness without adding unnecessary swing weight. For riders with the skill and leg strength to drive it, the Howler turns high-speed resort laps into a clinic on precision. **Highlights** - High-camber profile delivers exceptional pop and energetic turn exits - Specialized edge profiling provides dependable grip on ice and hardpack - Stiff torsional flex maintains composure through high-speed chatter - Broad size range including dedicated wide options for larger boot sizes - Versatile shape balances directional drive with switch-riding capability **Watch-outs** - Demanding flex profile quickly tires out novice or intermediate riders - Unforgiving contact points can lead to edge catches at slow speeds

Goat Pro Carbon

Cardiff

The Cardiff Goat Pro Carbon is an unapologetic, top-tier freeride weapon designed specifically for high-consequence alpine terrain and full-throttle descents. Built for expert riders who measure their days in vertical drop and steep pitches, this board dispenses with resort-cruiser compromises. Independent testing places it among the highest-performing big-mountain platforms available, provided you possess the technical skill to command it. The board pairs a directional shape and setback stance with a stout carbon-fiber layup that virtually eliminates chatter. When pointing through frozen refreeze, heavy variable crud, or runout chunder, the Goat Pro Carbon feels completely unflappable. It tracks like a train on rail, translating rider input directly to the edges with zero delay. In powder, the tapered tail and rockered nose provide effortless float without forcing you to lean on your back leg, keeping fatigue minimal on deep backcountry tours or storm days. The primary barrier to entry is the combination of cost and stiffness. Sitting well above the thousand-dollar mark, it is one of the most expensive solid production boards on the market. Furthermore, its uncompromising torsional stiffness makes it exhausting to pilot at slow speeds, in tight moguls, or across mellow flats where you cannot build sufficient momentum to flex the deck. **Highlights** - Carbon-reinforced construction delivers exceptional torsional rigidity and dampening - Directional shape with nose rocker floats effortlessly in deep powder - Unmatched stability when carving through high-speed crud and chop - Premium base material retains wax and generates rapid glide **Watch-outs** - Extremely high price point compared to standard all-mountain boards - Requires significant rider input and speed to maneuver comfortably

Howler

Best for: Resort freeriders and powder hounds seeking surfy float, chunder dampening, and top-tier value.

Goat Pro Carbon

Best for: Expert big-mountain riders demanding uncompromising stiffness, ultralight swing weight, and maximum edge security on steeps.