Responsive, Sustainable, Powder-specialist Snowboard
In the heart of winter, when the mountains are blanketed with fresh snow, there's a certain magic that calls out to every adventurer. And for those who heed that call, the Hovercraft 2.0 by Jones is a revelation. Amidst a plethora of cutting-edge snowboards, the Hovercraft 2.0 emerges as the crown jewel. It's the kind of board you instinctively reach for when you wake up to the news of a fresh snow dump. It's akin to the thrill of crafting a homemade pizza, where the right tools and ingredients transform the experience into something truly sublime.
The Hovercraft's legacy traces back to Jeremy Jones’ racing days on the World Cup circuit, blending impeccable edge hold for carves with friendly, floaty board ends. And now, after 14 seasons of minimal changes, Jones has truly outdone itself with this latest iteration. Riding the Hovercraft 2.0 in powder is like dancing with the wind; it responds to every subtle movement, offering the essence of a true pow surfer while still holding its ground as an all-mountain board. But make no mistake, this board thrives in deep snow.
Yet, every masterpiece has its nuances. The Hovercraft 2.0 is a specialist, not a jack of all trades. It's unmatched in its natural habitat of powder, but on harder terrains, it reveals its playful side, sometimes to a fault. It's not the board you'd choose for high-speed chases or sharp carves. But in its domain, it's unparalleled. Think of it as a performance sports car – it's exhilarating on the open road but might be a tad cumbersome for daily commutes.
Beyond its performance, the Hovercraft 2.0 is a testament to Jones' commitment to sustainability. Crafted with recycled materials from old snowboards, it's a nod to the brand's dedication to eco-consciousness. The board's core, a blend of paulownia wood and poplar stringers, promises consistent flex and snappiness. And with the Traction Tech 1.0 serrated edges, it ensures a decent grip, even if it's not its strongest suit.
In conclusion, if the upcoming winter promises frequent snowfalls, the Hovercraft 2.0 is the board to have by your side. It elevates the joy of snowboarding, making every descent feel like a dance with nature. And while it has its quirks outside its preferred terrain, within its element, there's simply no better companion. So, as the snowflakes start to fall and the mountains beckon, ask yourself: are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?
Pros:
- Exceptional in Powder: The board excels in deep snow, offering a sublime powder day experience.
- Responsive: Adapts willingly to the rider's every subtle movement, making it feel like an extension of the body.
- Maneuverability: In soft snow conditions, especially in tight and steep terrains, the Hovercraft turns on a dime.
- Sustainability: Made with recycled materials from old snowboards, showcasing Jones' commitment to eco-consciousness.
- Versatile Size Range: Available in sizes from 144 cm to 164 cm, catering to a wide range of riders.
- Enhanced Design: The 2.0 version has accentuated features like a floaty nose, compact shape, and directional camber profile, improving its performance.
- Traction Tech Edges: Provides a decent grip, especially beneficial in firmer conditions.
Cons:
- Not All-Mountain: While it's a powder specialist, it's not a do-it-all board, showing some limitations outside of powder conditions.
- Chattering in Harder Conditions: On harder-packed snow, the board can chatter and feel unstable.
- Not for High Speeds: The board can feel a bit clumsy at high speeds and isn't built for sharp, long carves.
- Limited Edging Power: While it offers decent traction, it's not the best choice for those prioritizing edging power.
- Size Limitations: The board isn't available in a wide version, which might be an issue for riders with larger boot sizes.
$599.95
