Salomon Abstract Snowboard - Review
Salomon Abstract Snowboard Specs:
- Length: 155cm
- Profile: Camber dominant with rocker tips
- Shape: Directional Twin
- Flex: Medium
- Core: Popster Booster Woodcore
- Base: Sintered
- Sidewalls: Slingshot Sidewalls
- Laminates: Triaxial Fiberglass
Before we jump into the review - If you want to read our Best All Mountain Snowboards comparison article, you are welcome.
The Salomon Abstract Snowboard immediately stands out with its camber dominant profile, which offers a responsive and lively feel underfoot. Riding this board, I felt a noticeable pop and energy, especially when carving on groomed runs. The rocker tips, on the other hand, provided a bit of playfulness and made turn initiation smoother.
The board's directional twin shape is versatile, allowing for both freestyle play in the park and aggressive carving on the slopes. The medium flex strikes a balance between stability at high speeds and flexibility for tricks and jibbing. It's a board that doesn't pigeonhole you into one style of riding; you can explore the mountain as you please.
One of the standout features is the Popster Booster Woodcore. It's designed to optimize the natural snap and pop of wood, giving the rider a dynamic feel. This core, combined with the triaxial fiberglass, ensures that the board is both durable and responsive.
Lastly, the sintered base and Slingshot Sidewalls are worth mentioning. The base glides smoothly over snow, even in slushy conditions, ensuring consistent speed. The sidewalls, meanwhile, absorb shock effectively, making for a smoother ride even on rough terrains. All in all, the Salomon Abstract Snowboard is a well-rounded choice for those looking to tackle a variety of mountain conditions.
Diving into the Technical: A Comprehensive Review of the Salomon Abstract Snowboard
Key Features:
The Salomon Abstract Snowboard is packed with a plethora of features that cater to both beginners and seasoned snowboarders. Its design and construction are a testament to Salomon's commitment to delivering high-quality snowboarding equipment.
Snowboard Profile:
The Abstract boasts a hybrid profile, combining the best of both camber and rocker designs. This means you get the stability and power of traditional camber underfoot, with the added playfulness and float of a rocker towards the tip and tail. This hybrid design ensures a versatile ride, allowing for aggressive carves on groomed runs while still being playful in powder.
Flex Rating:
With a medium flex rating, the Abstract strikes a balance between rigidity and flexibility. This makes it responsive enough for quick turns and carving, yet forgiving enough for those looking to experiment with freestyle moves or simply cruise down the mountain.
Snowboard Shape:
The twin directional shape of the Abstract is perfect for those who love to ride switch. It offers a symmetrical feel, ensuring consistent performance whether you're riding regular or goofy. This shape is also beneficial for those looking to dabble in park riding.
Core:
At the heart of the Abstract is its robust wood core, which provides a lively and energetic feel underfoot. This core not only ensures durability but also offers a natural flex pattern that resonates with riders of all levels.
Laminates:
The board is reinforced with high-quality laminates that enhance its torsional rigidity. This ensures that the board remains stable at high speeds and during aggressive turns, reducing the chances of unwanted chatter.
Base:
The sintered base on the Abstract is a game-changer. It absorbs wax well, ensuring that riders experience minimal friction and maximum glide. This type of base is known for its durability and ability to maintain speed, making it a favorite among many snowboarders.
Edges:
Salomon has equipped the Abstract with freestyle edge bevels. These beveled edges reduce the chances of catching an edge, especially during tricks, making it a safer choice for those looking to push their limits in the park or on natural features.
Binding Compatibility:
The Abstract is compatible with most standard snowboard bindings, thanks to its universal mounting system. This ensures that riders have the flexibility to pair it with their preferred bindings, optimizing comfort and performance.
Terrain Type:
This board truly shines in a variety of terrains. Whether you're carving down groomed runs, floating in powder, or hitting the park, the Abstract has got you covered. Its versatile design ensures that it performs consistently across different snow conditions.
Ability Level:
While the Salomon Abstract Snowboard is beginner-friendly, its range of features makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced riders as well. Its forgiving nature allows novices to progress quickly, while seasoned riders will appreciate its responsiveness and stability.
The Salomon Abstract Snowboard is a testament to the brand's dedication to quality and performance. Its technical features, combined with its versatile design, make it a worthy addition to any snowboarder's quiver. Whether you're just starting out or have been shredding for years, the Abstract promises a ride that's both exhilarating and reliable.
