While some snowboarders prefer the untouched slopes of a backcountry terrain, others opt for the smooth runs of the freestyle terrain park. The mountain and the freestyle models are two common designs of the snowboard. Although these boards might appear similar to the untrained eye, they have a few distinguishable characteristics that set them apart.
Function
One of the most fundamental differences between the mountain and the freestyle board is the intended riding terrain and overall function. There are two variations of the mountain snowboard, known as the all-mountain and the free ride. The all-mountain snowboard remains ideal for beginners as it can adapt to a sundry of slope conditions. According to REI, the free ride mountain board offers increased handling on an off-piste terrain that is covered with powdered snow. Unlike the mountain snowboard, the freestyle snowboard functions best on groomed slopes that feature a smooth terrain.
Length and Width
Another primary difference between the freestyle and the mountain board is the dimensions of the deck. While the elongated deck of the mountain board provides increased stability at high speeds, the shorter deck of the freestyle snowboard offers advanced handling during airborne tricks. According to ABC-of-Snowboarding, the shorter dimensions of the freestyle board help to decrease the overall weight, which in turn helps to increase your turning efficiency. Compared with the freestyle snowboard, the mountain board features a wider deck for better flotation in powder.
Bindings
One of the more subtle differences between the mountain and freestyle snowboard involves the placement of the bindings. On a mountain snowboard, the bindings are placed a few inches back from the center of the board. This setback riding stance allows you to keep the nose of the snowboard elevated while trudging through thick sheets of freshly fallen snow. The bindings of the freestyle snowboard are installed on the center-most mounting holes. This centered stance allows you to keep your body weight evenly distributed during grinds and slides.
Flexibility
The rigidity of the mountain and freestyle snowboard is quite different. The stiff deck of the mountain snowboard helps you to effectively transfer energy between the edges of the board during high-speed turns and maneuvers. The rigid deck also helps to decrease board vibrations at breakneck speeds. Compared to the mountain board, the freestyle snowboard features a higher degree of longitudinal and torsional flex. The pliable deck of the freestyle snowboard has the ability to absorb the landing impact of high-altitude tricks.
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