The 2016/17 season might go down as the breakout year for experimental snowboard shapes. We’re seeing more surf inspired shapes than ever before. And while we’re not quite writing the popsicle stick’s eulogy, designs with pointy tips and scooped out tails are moving from the far fringes to the mainstream. Case in point, the RIDE Alter Ego.
With its scooped out tail and blunted nose, the Alter Ego already stands out from the crowd. Add in the split tail, and this board is one of the more unique approaches to all-mountain versatility. The subtle white mountain scene on the top sheet and clear RIDE logo on the base round out this board’s sleek, classy look. No doubt, the Alter Ego is easy on the eyes. But how does it ride?
I started out with the tail locked down, and was immediately comfortable on this board. Camber under the feet, with rocker toward the tip and tail offer a predictable ride on hardpack and through the bumps and trees. It didn’t take long (half a lap!) for my curiosity to take over and unlock that tail.
As the name implies, the split tail design provides two distinct personalities for this board. I like the feel of the unlocked tail in fresh snow, even just ankle deep conditions. The first day I rode the Alter Ego, with 3-4″ of fresh/falling snow, I felt like the difference between locked and unlocked was fairly subtle. Not deep enough to enjoy the benefits of that sinking tail. A second full day on this board, in mostly packed powder conditions, saw the tail rarely get unlocked. In particular, I felt more comfortable and in control of the board in the trees with the tail locked down.
BOTTOM LINE
I’d enjoy the Alter Ego even without the split tail. I like the look of the blunted nose and scooped out tail. Most of my time on this board has been with the tail locked down. If I actually had the opportunity to ride more powder days, I’d be using that split tail a whole lot more. If you’re looking for a board that excels all over the mountain but offers more powder versatility than the standard “all mountain” offering, the Alter Ego might be a good fit for you.
STYLE: ALL MOUNTAIN, POWDER
PROFILE: SPLITTAIL
SHAPE: HYBRID
STANCE: ¾” SETBACK
SIZES: 155, 159 (tested), 162
2016/17 Ride Alter Ego on groomed hardpack at Mary Jane, CO. Jan 14, 2017 / Mitch Kline
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