The first prototypes are ready
Our very first snowboard prototype was completed on January 25th. It was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Just five days later, on January 30th, we had already finished prototype number two – and since then, things have been moving fast.
Three board shapes – three directions
We’ve developed three different board shapes – three distinct directions we want to explore further. Each shape has its own characteristics and personality, and we’re working purposefully to find the perfect expression and feel in each board.
To make the production process as transparent and educational as possible, we chose to use transparent topsheets on the prototypes. That way, we could spot any flaws or irregularities in the structure – and yes, we found a few. Just as we hoped.
Layer by layer – this is how a board is built
A snowboard is made up of several carefully selected components. At its core lies the wood – the backbone of the board. Around this, we laminate layers of fiberglass, or in some cases carbon fiber, for increased response and strength. On top comes a plastic laminate that can be printed with graphics – or made transparent, as we did with the prototypes. Beneath the board is the base material, supplied by Isosport, known as the best available on the market.
New shape – new precision
When we were working on the third prototype, we discovered that the mold we were using in the press wasn’t good enough. It caused irregularities in the tail and nose, and that simply didn’t meet our standards.
So we spent over a month and a half developing a new mold from scratch. Now we have a form that provides perfect precision, ensuring every board is even, symmetrical, and ready to ride.
Testing the prototypes
After building comes testing. We’ve taken the prototypes to Kongsberg, Hemsedal, and Trysil, and pushed them hard. Not to enjoy the rides, but to try to break them. We’ve stress-tested, jumped, pressed, and challenged the boards to find weaknesses – but honestly, they can take a serious beating.
What we tested was primarily a prototype of an all-mountain board – a board designed to handle it all: powder, carving turns, high speed, and boardercross. Our feedback after the tests is clear: the boards hold up, deliver high performance, and are incredibly versatile. And most importantly – they feel real.