If you’re a seasoned snowboarder, you know the importance of having a reliable board when hitting the slopes. And with so many snowboard brands out there, it can be tough to choose the best one for your needs and budget. One name that often comes up in discussions about snowboard brands is Kemper. But is Kemper a good snowboard brand? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Kemper has been around since the early days of snowboarding and has a loyal following among die-hard snowboarders. The brand offers a wide range of snowboards to suit riders of all styles and skill levels, from park rats to powder hounds. But what sets Kemper apart from other snowboard brands? Is it worth the investment, or should you look elsewhere for your next board?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of Kemper snowboards, break down their construction, and read reviews from actual riders to help you make an informed decision about whether or not Kemper is a good snowboard brand for you. So, strap on your boots, grab your board, and let’s hit the slopes (or at least, read about them).
History of Kemper Snowboards
Kemper snowboards was founded in Utah in 1987 by David Kemper. The company quickly gained popularity among snowboard enthusiasts and professionals for its dynamic board designs. David Kemper was a former professional snowboarder and brought his creative vision to his snowboard brand. David Kemper is considered one of the pioneers of snowboarding and his legacy is cemented in the industry.
- Kemper was the first brand to introduce asymmetrical snowboards in the late 80s. This design revolutionized the sport and continues to be used today.
- During the 90s, Kemper signed some of the biggest names in snowboarding including Craig Kelly, Michi Albin, and Terje Haakonsen.
- Kemper also played a part in the creation of the X-Games by sponsoring the first snowboard halfpipe event in 1997.
The company faced financial struggles in the late 90s and was eventually sold to Burton Snowboards in 2001. Kemper snowboards ceased production soon after, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and creativity.
Today, vintage Kemper snowboards are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The brand’s impact on the early days of snowboarding can still be felt today. David Kemper’s contribution to the sport is immeasurable, and Kemper snowboards will always be an important piece of snowboarding history.
Kemper’s Snowboard Technology
Founded in 1987, Kemper Snowboards is a reputable brand with decades of experience in creating top-notch snowboards. Kemper has maintained its status in the industry by continuously improving its snowboard technology to ensure snowboarders enjoy the best possible experience on the mountain.
- Cambers and Rockers: Kemper offers both traditional camber and rocker profiles, as well as the hybrid shapes that combine the best of both. The traditional camber provides solid edge contact and pop, while the rocker profile allows for easy turning and float on powder. The hybrid shape combines the benefits of both profiles for maximum versatility.
- Edges: Edges are an essential component of a snowboard, and Kemper designs its boards with premium steel edges to withstand harsh mountain conditions. The edges are also designed to improve the board’s grip and control on snow surfaces.
- Core: Kemper uses woodcore technology to create a balance between lightweight and durability. The brand uses different types of wood and composite materials, such as bamboo and poplar, to improve flex and strength.
Kemper snowboards also feature advanced technology that caters to specific snowboarding styles. For freestyle riders, the brand offers a board with a symmetrical twin shape, allowing for easy switch-riding and park playfulness. The freeride boards feature directional camber profiles that are suitable for aggressive riding and carving. The board’s flex, shape, and size are all geared towards the rider’s style and snowboarding preference.
Lastly, Kemper snowboards have unique graphics that cater to different tastes and styles. The graphics are based on pop culture, music, and snowboarding legends, giving riders an opportunity to choose a board that resonates with their personality and creativity.
Kemper’s Snowboard Technology: A Closer Look
For a deeper understanding of Kemper snowboard technology, let’s take a closer look at the table below, which outlines some of the significant components that the brand uses in its snowboard production:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Core | Kemper uses bamboo, paulownia, and poplar wood cores to improve strength, flex, and weight. The wood cores are reinforced with carbon and kevlar materials for added durability and responsiveness. |
| Edges | Kemper uses steel edges that are reinforced with additional layers of metal for added strength and durability. The edges are further shaped to improve the board’s grip and stability on snow surfaces. |
| Base | Kemper bases are made of high-density polyethylene material that helps to reduce friction and increases the board’s speed. The bases are finished with a stone grind texture that allows for better glide on snow surfaces. |
| Shape | Kemper snowboards come in different shapes, including symmetrical twin, directional, and hybrid shapes. The shape and profile of the board determine how it performs on snow surfaces and the snowboarding style it caters for. |
Kemper snowboard technology offers a diverse range of snowboard components that cater to different snowboarding styles, levels, and tastes. Snowboarders can choose from a range of traditional and modern shapes, rockers, cambers, and hybrids, as well as different graphics that meet their personality and style.
Kemper’s Reputation in the Snowboarding Industry
Kemper Snowboards has been around since the 1980s and has established a reputation as one of the pioneers of the snowboarding industry. The company gained popularity through its unique graphics, innovative designs, and sponsorship of talented riders. However, Kemper’s popularity waned in the 1990s due to changes in the snowboard industry, causing the company to go out of business for a time.
Recently, Kemper has made a comeback in the snowboarding industry, launching a new line of snowboards that aims to recapture the brand’s original appeal from the 80s. While their products are not as widely recognized as some of the bigger brands in the industry, Kemper has managed to regain a following among snowboarders who appreciate the brand’s nostalgia and unique designs.
Pros of Kemper Snowboards
- Kemper Snowboards offer a unique look and feel that appeals to riders looking for something different from the more popular brands.
- The brand has a rich history within the snowboarding industry, which may be appealing to riders who value tradition and innovation.
- Kemper’s new line of snowboards is competitively priced, making them a good option for beginners or riders on a budget.
Cons of Kemper Snowboards
While Kemper Snowboards offer a unique look and feel, they may not be for everyone. Snowboarders who prefer more mainstream brands may not be familiar with Kemper and may not be willing to take a chance on a lesser-known brand. Additionally, the company’s rocky history within the industry may cause some riders to question the long-term viability of Kemper as a snowboard brand.
Kemper’s Product Line
Kemper’s current product line features a range of snowboards suitable for different riding styles and skill levels. Their boards range from beginner to pro-level and are available in various sizes and shapes.
| Model | Type | Price Range |
| Peace Keeper | All-Mountain | $450-$500 |
| Enjoyer | Freestyle | $399-$429 |
| White Noise | Powder | $479-$529 |
Overall, Kemper Snowboards has a unique appeal within the snowboarding industry due to their rich history and unique designs. While their product line may not be as extensive as some of the larger brands, Kemper offers quality snowboards at a competitive price point. Riders looking for something different and original should consider a Kemper snowboard for their next ride.
Kemper’s Product Range
Kemper Snowboards is a popular brand among snowboarders, offering a wide range of snowboards catering to different riding styles and skill levels. Below are the different categories of products in Kemper’s product range:
- All-Mountain Snowboards – These are versatile snowboards designed for riding all over the mountain, from groomed runs to deep powder. They’re ideal for intermediate to advanced riders who want one board that can do it all.
- Park Snowboards – These snowboards are designed for hitting the park and jibbing on rails and boxes. They’re usually softer and more forgiving than all-mountain snowboards, making them perfect for beginners to intermediate riders who want to progress their park riding.
- Powder Snowboards – As the name suggests, these snowboards are designed for deep powder days, with features such as wider noses, tapered shapes, and setback stances. They’re perfect for advanced riders seeking a more aggressive and dynamic ride on the mountain.
- Women’s Snowboards – Kemper offers a range of women’s snowboards tailored to a woman’s anatomy and riding style, providing a comfortable and fun ride for female riders.
Kemper’s Technology
Kemper Snowboards uses advanced technology in their snowboard construction to provide a superior riding experience. They use materials such as carbon fiber and Kevlar to provide added strength and durability while still keeping the snowboard lightweight. Other features include:
- Rockered profiles – These boards have a convex shape on their base, making it easier to float on deep snow.
- Camber profiles – These boards have a concave shape on their base, providing grip and stability on hardpack snow.
- Hybrid profiles – These snowboards combine both rocker and camber profiles for an all-around ride.
Kemper’s Team and Collaborations
Kemper Snowboards has a team of professional snowboarders, including Craig Kelly, the legendary snowboarder who helped create the brand in the 1980s. They also collaborate with other brands and artists to create unique designs and products that stand out on the mountain.
| Partner | Product Collaboration |
|---|---|
| Vans | Limited edition snowboard boots and bindings |
| Wendy’s | Limited edition snowboard graphics and merchandise |
| Mike Parillo | Artist collaboration for the Craig Kelly Collection |
With their innovative technology, diverse product range, and creative collaborations, Kemper Snowboards is definitely a good snowboard brand worth checking out.
Customer reviews of Kemper snowboards
Customer reviews are a great way to know whether a product is worth investing in or not. When it comes to Kemper snowboards, the reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with many happy customers returning year after year to ride Kemper boards. Here are some key takeaways from the customer reviews:
- Many customers love the graphics on Kemper snowboards, describing them as unique and eye-catching
- Kemper boards are often praised for their stability, making them a great choice for riders of all skill levels
- Some customers have noted that Kemper boards are a bit heavier than other brands, but they feel that it’s worth it for the performance and durability that they offer
If you’re considering purchasing a Kemper snowboard, it’s worth taking the time to read through some customer reviews. You’ll get a good sense of what makes Kemper boards stand out in the market, and whether they’re a good fit for your snowboarding needs.
Here’s a quick glance at a table of ratings for some popular Kemper snowboard models:
| Model | Overall Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Peace Keeper | 4.5 |
| Charger | 4.2 |
| Prime | 4.0 |
| Swoosh | 4.5 |
As you can see, Kemper snowboards consistently receive high ratings from customers, making them a reliable choice for snowboarders of all levels.
Comparison of Kemper with other snowboard brands
Kemper is a well-respected snowboard brand that has been around since the early 1980s. They are known for their high-quality construction and innovative design features. However, how does Kemper compare to other top snowboard brands in the industry today?
- Burton: Burton is one of the most popular and well-known snowboard brands on the market. While Kemper might not have the same level of brand recognition, they offer similar high-quality construction and innovative designs. However, Kemper tends to be more affordable than Burton, making it a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Lib Tech: Lib Tech is another well-respected snowboard brand that prides itself on innovative designs and high-quality construction. While Kemper offers similar features, Lib Tech tends to be a bit more expensive. However, they have a wider variety of designs and models to choose from, which could make them a better choice for shoppers looking for specific features or style options.
- Ride: Ride is a snowboard brand that is known for its durability and reliable performance. While Kemper offers similar features, Ride tends to focus more on freestyle and park riding, whereas Kemper is known for its all-mountain and freeride boards. The choice between these two brands may come down to a rider’s specific snowboarding style and preferences.
When it comes down to it, Kemper is a great choice for snowboarders who are looking for high-quality boards at an affordable price point. While they might not have the same level of brand recognition as some of the top companies in the industry, they offer excellent value for their price and are a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate-level riders.
For full comparison details, check out the following table:
| Brand | Price Range | Types of Boards | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kemper | $300-$600 | All-Mountain, Freeride | High-quality construction, Innovative design features |
| Burton | $300-$1000+ | All-Mountain, Freestyle, Powder, Splitboards | High-quality construction, Wide variety of designs and features |
| Lib Tech | $400-$1000+ | All-Mountain, Freestyle, Powder, Splitboards | High-quality construction, Wide variety of designs and features |
| Ride | $350-$700 | All-Mountain, Freestyle, Powder | Durable construction, reliable performance, focus on freestyle and park riding |
In conclusion, Kemper stands up well against other top snowboard brands in terms of quality, performance, and affordability. While there are certainly other great brands to consider, Kemper is a solid choice for snowboarders of all levels who want a great board for a reasonable price.
Famous Snowboarders Who Use Kemper
Kemper Snowboards has been a popular brand since the 1980s, and many famous snowboarders have used their boards to win competitions and gain popularity in the sport. Here are 7 notable snowboarders who have used Kemper Snowboards:
- Craig Kelly: Craig Kelly was a legendary snowboarder who is considered one of the pioneers of the sport. He won many competitions throughout his career and helped popularize snowboarding in the 1990s.
- Gillian Andrews: Gillian Andrews is a professional snowboarder who competed in the Winter X Games in 2000 and 2002. She is known for her smooth style and technical tricks.
- Chris Roach: Chris Roach is a former professional snowboarder who competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics. He has also won several X Games medals throughout his career.
- Danny Kass: Danny Kass is a two-time Olympic silver medalist who has won many competitions throughout his career. He is known for his aggressive riding style and has been sponsored by Kemper Snowboards.
- Keir Dillon: Keir Dillon is a former professional snowboarder who has won many competitions throughout his career. He is known for his innovative tricks and was sponsored by Kemper Snowboards early on in his career.
- Beau Bishop: Beau Bishop is a professional snowboarder who has competed in the Winter X Games and other competitions throughout his career. He is known for his smooth style and backcountry riding.
- Chad Otterstrom: Chad Otterstrom is a former professional snowboarder who has won many competitions throughout his career. He is known for his technical riding style and has been sponsored by Kemper Snowboards.
If you’re looking for a snowboard brand that has a proven track record of success, Kemper Snowboards is definitely a good choice. With many famous snowboarders using their boards, you can trust that you’ll be getting a high-quality product that will help you ride your best.
Kemper’s Sustainability Practices
In today’s world, sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and many companies are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Kemper is one such company that is committed to sustainability practices. Here are some of the ways in which Kemper is working towards a more sustainable future:
- Recycling: Kemper uses recycled materials wherever possible, and also recycles their own waste. This includes everything from paper and cardboard to scrap metal and plastic.
- Renewable Energy: Kemper has implemented a number of renewable energy projects, including the use of solar panels to power their factories and offices. They are also exploring the use of wind power and hydropower to further reduce their carbon footprint.
- Reducing Waste: Kemper is constantly exploring new ways to reduce waste in their manufacturing process. This includes redesigning products to use fewer materials, and finding better ways to dispose of waste that is generated.
By implementing these sustainable practices, Kemper is not only reducing their impact on the environment, but also saving money in the long run. Many of these initiatives, such as using renewable energy sources, are not only good for the planet, but can also be good for business.
In addition to these initiatives, Kemper is committed to working with suppliers who share their sustainability values. This means ensuring that suppliers meet certain environmental standards, and avoiding suppliers who engage in unethical practices.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Recycling | Use of recycled materials wherever possible, and recycling of their own waste. |
| Renewable Energy | Implementation of solar panels to power their factories and offices, exploring the use of wind power and hydropower. |
| Reducing Waste | Redesigning products to use fewer materials, and finding better ways to dispose of waste that is generated. |
Overall, Kemper is an environmentally conscious company that is taking important steps towards a more sustainable future. By implementing sustainable practices and working with suppliers who share their values, Kemper is setting an example for other companies to follow.
Sales and distribution channels of Kemper snowboards
As a seasoned snowboarder or someone who is just starting out, you want to make sure that you purchase the right board for you. One of the most reputable brands in the snowboarding industry is Kemper. Not only do they produce high-quality snowboards, but they also have a well-established sales and distribution channel.
When it comes to the sales and distribution of Kemper snowboards, there are several different channels you can use. Here are nine distribution channels you can use to purchase their snowboards:
- Specialty retailers – Kemper boards are typically sold through specialty retailers, which means that you can find them at winter sport stores, ski resorts, and other specialty retailers.
- Online retailers – One of the easiest and most convenient ways to purchase Kemper snowboards is through online retailers, such as Amazon, Backcountry, Evo, and more.
- Kemper’s own online store – Kemper’s online store is a great place to purchase snowboards, boots, bindings, apparel, and more.
- Sporting Goods Stores – Some of the larger sporting goods stores also offer Kemper products, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI.
- Department stores – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Kemper snowboard, department stores like Walmart and Sears occasionally carry them during the winter season.
- Second-hand retailers – Sites like eBay and Craigslist are great places to search for used Kemper snowboards.
- Direct from Kemper – The company has an official website where you can purchase snowboards, apparel, and accessories directly from the manufacturer.
- Pop-up shops – During the winter months, Kemper may open a pop-up shop in a city or town where their products are available for purchase.
- Social media – The Kemper Instagram and Twitter pages are constantly updated with new product releases and special deals.
In addition to the various distribution channels, Kemper also has a strong presence in the rental market. If you’re new to snowboarding or just looking to try out Kemper boards, you can often rent them at ski resorts or winter sport stores.
| Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| Specialty Retailers | Typically winter sport stores, ski resorts, and other specialty retailers physically based on a location. |
| Online Retailers | E-commerce stores such as Amazon, Backcountry, and Evo. |
| Kemper’s own online store | Kemper online store that offers a wide variety of snowboards and gear for sale. |
| Sporting Goods Stores | Larger sporting goods stores, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI. |
| Department Stores | Budget-friendly selection such as Walmart or Sears. |
| Second-hand Retailers | E-commerce stores such as eBay and Craigslist where you can find used Kemper snowboards. |
| Direct from Kemper | You can purchase snowboards, apparel, and accessories directly from the Kemper website. |
| Pop-up Shops | Kemper may open a temporary retail store during winter months in certain locations. |
| Social Media | Instagram and Twitter pages updated regularly with new product releases and special deals. |
Overall, Kemper snowboards are widely available through various distribution channels. With their strong presence in the rental market, it’s easy to test out their boards before making a purchase. Whether you’re a seasoned snowboarder or just starting out, Kemper is a trusted brand that offers high-quality snowboards.
Kemper’s Sponsorship of Snowboarding Events and Athletes
As a snowboarding brand, Kemper has been actively involved in sponsoring snowboarding events and athletes. The following are some of the ways Kemper has shown its commitment and support to the snowboarding community.
- Kemper sponsors several snowboarding events across the world, including the World Snowboarding Championships, the US Open Snowboarding Championships, and the Jamie Anderson Invitational. These events bring together some of the world’s best snowboarders and provide a platform for young and emerging riders to showcase their skills.
- Kemper also sponsors individual snowboarders, including Jamie Anderson, the Olympic gold medalist and multiple X Games champion. Anderson has been a Kemper ambassador for several years, and the brand has continuously supported her career, providing her with the necessary equipment and resources to perform at the highest level.
- In addition to Anderson, Kemper sponsors other up-and-coming snowboarders, including Sean Fitzsimons, Lucas Foster, and Jesse Augustinus. These riders all have the potential to be the future stars of snowboarding, and Kemper’s sponsorships provide them with the support they need to reach their goals.
Moreover, Kemper’s commitment to snowboarding goes beyond just sponsoring events and athletes. The brand also promotes initiatives that aim to make the sport more accessible to everyone. For instance, Kemper has partnered with the Chill Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides snowboarding opportunities to underserved youth.
Overall, Kemper’s sponsorship of snowboarding events and athletes highlights the brand’s dedication to the snowboarding community. By supporting some of the world’s top riders and the events that showcase their talents, Kemper plays a role in shaping the future of snowboarding and the industry as a whole.
| Event | Sponsored by Kemper |
|---|---|
| World Snowboarding Championships | Yes |
| US Open Snowboarding Championships | Yes |
| Jamie Anderson Invitational | Yes |
By sponsoring individual snowboarders, including Jamie Anderson, Sean Fitzsimons, Lucas Foster, and Jesse Augustinus, Kemper provides these athletes with the resources they need to perform at their best. Additionally, Kemper’s partnership with the Chill Foundation helps to make snowboarding more accessible to underserved youth, allowing them to experience the joys of the sport while learning valuable life skills.
Is Kemper a Good Snowboard Brand?
1. What is Kemper?
Kemper is a snowboard brand that has been around since the 1980s. They were one of the pioneers in the snowboarding industry and have been making snowboards for over 30 years.
2. Are Kemper snowboards good for beginners?
Yes, Kemper snowboards are great for beginners. They have a variety of boards that are designed specifically for beginners, including their Start and Splash models.
3. What is the price range for Kemper snowboards?
Kemper snowboards are generally priced in the mid-range, with boards starting around $250 and going up to around $500.
4. Are Kemper snowboards durable?
Yes, Kemper snowboards are known for their durability. They use high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure that their snowboards can withstand plenty of use.
5. Can Kemper snowboards be used for freestyle and park riding?
Yes, Kemper has a range of snowboards that are perfect for freestyle and park riding. Their boards are designed to be flexible and forgiving, which makes them great for tricks and jumps.
6. Where can I buy Kemper snowboards?
Kemper snowboards are available at a variety of online and in-store retailers. Some popular stores that carry Kemper snowboards include REI, Evo, and Zumiez.
7. What is the warranty on Kemper snowboards?
Kemper snowboards come with a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. If you experience any issues with your snowboard within the first year, you can contact Kemper for a repair or replacement.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has been helpful in answering your questions about Kemper snowboards. If you’re looking for a durable, high-quality snowboard that’s great for beginners and seasoned riders alike, Kemper is definitely a brand worth considering. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to check back for more snowboarding tips and tricks!