Whether it’s your first backcountry adventure or you’ve been splitting for years, you probably want to take a look at our list of the best splitboards of 2016. The splitboard industry is growing like crazy which is forcing brands to come out with better products, lighter weight materials and a more broad selection of boards and bindings. We carry the top brands in the split game and know there is a board on our list that will work for you. If you are just starting your research about splitboarding, check out our helpful article on understanding splitboards to get a better grasp on some of the core tech involved with splitboarding. If you are ready to continue, check out some of our favorite splitboards for 2016.
Jones Solution Splitboard
The name says it all. The Jones Solution Splitboard is your solution to previously unobtainable terrain. Modeled after the Flagship, the Jones Solution is the best selling splitboard on the market and now can also wear the crown of most Eco-friendly splitboard as well. Built to dominate in the backcountry and excel in powder, the Solution has a directional rocker and powerful, more pronounced nose to help drive the board thru deeper conditions. The brand new Eco-Plastic top sheet is made from Castor beans that is built to be lighter, more durable, scratch resistant and clearly better for the environment. Inner and outer edge Magnetraction keeps you locked into place whether you are skinning up, cruising down in icy or hardpack conditions. While the Ultra core and added carbon stringers add a ton of overall pop and snap to this already lively ride. Finally, the built in Quick Tension tailclips use a pre-cut notch for your skins to lock into so you can avoid add on traditional tail clips. Everything you need in a splitboard for all-around backcountry riding conditions will come readily available with the Jones Solution Splitboard.
- Compatibility note – Jones features Karakoram hardware.
Jones Ultracraft Splitboard
When it comes to backcountry adventures, the weight of your gear matters more than ever and the Jones Ultracraft Splitboard is literally one of the lightest splitboards on earth. This high performance beast of a board was created for expert level expedition and high speeds descents. Despite the light weight, the Ultracraft can hold it’s own among some of the toughest conditions in places like the Grand Teton and Denali. In 2013 this board was named top pick in the National Geographic Gear of the Year awards. Key features to note, the Ultra ISO Core made up of a foam / fiberglass composite that is as stiff as wood but 15% lighter, plus Hardwood beech stringers along the edge for added durability. The Sintered Ultra Base offers a level of speed and durability that is second to none, plus TexTreme carbon fiber that is 20-30% lighter than traditional carbon fiber, finished with inner / outer Magnetraction to increase edge hold and stability, even in sketchy, icy conditions. If you push yourself to the limits then you need gear that can do the same. The Jones Ultracraft Splitboard is the ultimate in lightweight, high performance backcountry riding technology.
- Compatibility note – Jones features Karakoram hardware.
Never Summer Prospector Splitboard
For the ultimate in big mountain freeride Splitboards, the Never Summer Prospector Splitboard absolutely comes to mind. Founded on big mountain riding, Never Summer took all their top tech developments and packed the best features into this split. Made to endure tough conditions and handle fast lines like a boss with sintered p-tex inner and outer sidewall for high durability in sketchy backcountry conditions. RDS1 dampening system for the ultimate in chatter reduction, for the backcountry rider with a heavy foot that needs a board that can handle getting tough and going fast. The Prospector has a slight taper for added control plus power in powder, a low profile tip and tail for reduced swing weight. Trust the brand that has specializing in big mountain riding since day one!
Lib Tech Wingman Splitboard
The perfect board for the beginner who is ready to jump into splitboarding try the Lib Tech Wingman Splitboard. A very rideable, user friendly splitboard, the Wingman is down for the adventure and is here to help you along the way. With a slight rocker profile, the Wingman can float in powder while the added Magnetraction gives you a hand on those icy or hardpack days. Horsepower construction features all the best in eco-friendly materials, super ultra light fibers are infused for added power and pop, while the Eco Sub Sintered Base material keeps you moving fast all season long. All the key features you need to begin your splitboarding journey come stock in this board, and the best part is, the Wingman is guaranteed to continue to perform season after season. An excellent board that you can learn with and continue to grow on for years to come is the one and only Lib Tech Wingman.
- Compatibility note – Lib Tech features Karakoram clips.
Lib Tech Skunk Ape HP Splitboard
For our big-footed rippers out there, don’t worry, Lib Tech is looking out for you with their Skunk Ape HP Splitboard. Made for the big boys, the Skunk Ape is a powerful, wide ride that can handle the weight of larger riders with the responsiveness and support that they need in the backcountry. With a rockered mid-section, the Skunk Ape is easy to maneuver and offers great float in powder conditions while the camber humps under your feet allow you to dig into your carves and hold a mean edge even on the fast conditions. When touring in split mode, the added magnetraction gives excellent grip and the ease of Karakoram clips plus the Horsepower construction lightens the load so you don’t feel like you are lugging a ton of weight around. Easy enough for a first-time splitter and tough enough for the experienced big boys, the Skunk Ape HP Splitboard is the go-to ride for big footed splitters everywhere.
- Compatibility note – Lib Tech features Karakoram clips.
Burton Family Tree Custom Splitboard
With 20 years in the industry, the Burton Custom is regarded as one of the best all mountain board of all time. Burton took their time-tested technology and put it into one of the most versatile splitboards in the industry, the Burton Family Tree Custom Splitboard. Directional shape, loaded with Pure Pop camber, the Custom will power thru the pow, hold tight on turns and perform in any conditions you can find. The Superfly II 700g core keeps this board light in weight and nimble under your feet while the triax fiberglass adds all the power and snap you need to launch off jumps, and pop in and out of your carves. An Eco-Friendly recycled sintered WFO base guarantees you will be the first down the mountain every time and the frostbite edges give you a little extra support on those icy or hardpack mornings. Compatible with Voile hardware, the swap from touring to ride mode is seamless, dependable and for the ultimate combo, check out the Burton Hitchhiker splitboard bindings. For a time-honored, proven, dependable ride – the obvious choice is the Burton Family Tree Custom Splitboard.
- Compatibility note – features Voile hardware.
Burton Family Tree Landlord Splitboard
For the big mountain splitboarder who seeks out the steeps and fast lines, the Burton Family Tree Landlord Splitboard is the only way to go. The Landlord came into the line a few seasons ago and was a hit with freeride rippers everywhere , so much so that Burton decided to make it into a split so the true backcountry riders can enjoy this board as well. Directional camber and a slight taper allows the tail to sink into the powder and drive it’s way thru the snow with power and stability. 45 degree carbon highlites add a ton of snap and power to the overall flex of the board, while the recycled sintered WFO base guarantees that you will hold your speed even on the flats. When in touring mode, you will appreciate the ease and reliability of Voile hardware and for the most seamless connection, check out the Burton Hitchhiker splitboard binding. For seeking out powder stashes in uncharted territories, trust a board that has been a proven backcountry beast and treat yourself to the magical ride that is the Burton Family Tree Landlord Split.
Hopefully this article gives you a good place to start in the search for your next splitboard. See you in the back country!