Is Ride a Good Snowboard Brand? A Comprehensive Review

Since its inception, Ride Snowboards has rightfully garnered a reputation as one of the most trusted and revered brands in the industry. When it comes to snowboarding, it’s not enough to simply have a good time on the slopes. You need equipment that works with you, not against you. And this is what sets Ride apart from the rest: gear that is specifically designed to cater to the needs of riders, regardless of their skill level.

At the core of Ride’s philosophy lies a commitment to innovation and excellence. The company has always been at the forefront of snowboarding technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a board. Whether you’re carving down the mountain, practicing tricks at the park, or blazing through deep powder, Ride has a board that can help you achieve your goals. In a crowded market filled with imitators and subpar offerings, Ride stands out as a pioneer, a brand that sets the standard for the rest.

But more than just quality and innovation, Ride is all about community. There’s a reason why riders everywhere swear by this brand: it’s about more than just the gear. It’s the feeling of being part of a larger movement—a culture of passion, adventure, and camaraderie. So if you’re looking for a brand that not only delivers on performance but also understands what it means to truly love the sport of snowboarding, then Ride Snowboards is the perfect choice for you.

The History of Ride as a Snowboard Brand

Ride Snowboards, also commonly known as Ride, is an American company that specializes in snowboard gear and apparel. The company was founded in 1992 in Redmond, Washington by a group of professionals who had a shared passion for the sport of snowboarding.

Ride quickly became known for its high-quality, cutting-edge snowboard designs and gear, making the brand a popular choice among both casual and professional snowboarders. The company’s innovative technology and design, combined with its commitment to sustainability and community involvement, have helped it build a loyal following over the years.

Today, Ride offers a full range of snowboard gear and apparel, including snowboards, boots, bindings, and clothing for men, women, and children. The company continues to push the boundaries of snowboard design and technology, constantly creating new and innovative products to meet the needs of snowboarders of all levels.

Ride’s Impact on the Snowboarding Industry

Ride Snowboards, founded in 1992, has been a major player in the snowboarding industry for nearly three decades. The brand has paved the way for innovation, starting with its groundbreaking production of the first women-specific snowboard in 1993. Beyond just creating products tailored to women, Ride has also supported women’s snowboarding through sponsoring female riders such as Hana Beaman, Spencer O’Brien, and Yuka Fujimori. This has helped to increase the visibility and recognition of women in the sport.

In addition to its impact on women’s snowboarding, Ride has consistently pushed the boundaries of board design. Ride was the first company to introduce a twin-tip snowboard, which allowed riders to perform spins and tricks both forwards and backwards. The brand has continued to innovate, introducing the first camber-rocker-camber profile in 2009, which allowed for a more versatile ride on varying terrain.
Ride has also made a significant impact on the freestyle side of snowboarding. The brand sponsors some of the most influential park riders in the sport, including Jake Blauvelt, Dillon Ojo, and Seb Toots. This support has enabled these riders to push their limits and create new tricks that have changed the landscape of freestyle snowboarding.
Aside from its product innovation and support of athletes, Ride has also been a leader in sustainability efforts in the snowboarding industry. The company uses eco-friendly materials in its products, and has implemented a program to reduce waste in its production process.

Ride Snowboards has had a profound impact on the snowboarding industry, from advancing board design to supporting the growth of women’s and freestyle snowboarding. The brand’s commitment to sustainability further sets it apart as a leader in the industry. As we look to the future of snowboarding, it’s clear that Ride will continue to be at the forefront of innovation and progress.

Ride’s Recognition and Awards as a Snowboard Brand

Ride is a trusted brand when it comes to snowboarding gear. They have been in the industry for over 25 years, and their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them numerous recognition and awards. In this article, we will delve into some of their notable achievements that have solidified their position as one of the top snowboard brands around.

Awards won by Ride

Good Wood Awards: This is an annual award that recognizes the best snowboard gear in the industry. Ride has been a consistent winner of this award, and their boards have been recognized for their excellent performance and design.
Transworld Snowboarding Awards: Ride has also won multiple awards from Transworld Snowboarding, one of the leading publications in the snowboarding industry. Their gear has been recognized for being innovative, reliable, and high-performing.
ISPO Awards: Ride has also been awarded for their exceptional products at the International Sporting Goods Trade Show (ISPO). Their gear has been praised for its superior quality, performance, and design.

Ride’s Pro Team

Ride’s pro team consists of some of the most talented professional snowboarders in the world. Their team includes Olympic medalists, X-Games champions, and some of the most respected riders in the industry. Ride works closely with their pro team to develop and test new products, which ensures that their gear meets the needs of both professional and recreational riders. Their pro team includes notable riders such as Jake Welch, Spencer Schubert, and Yuki Kadono.

Ride’s Innovation

Ride is committed to innovation and has been at the forefront of introducing groundbreaking technology to the snowboarding industry. For instance, they were the first brand to introduce the use of carbon fiber in snowboard construction. They were also the first brand to come up with asymmetric designs in their boards, which allows for better control and increased maneuverability. Ride continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in snowboarding gear, which has earned them a reputation as a brand that is always looking to improve and innovate.

Ride’s Environmental Stewardship

Ride is not just a brand that excels in design and performance, but they are also committed to reducing their environmental impact. They have adopted eco-friendly practices in all their production processes, from using recycled materials to reducing waste. Ride is continually looking for ways to improve their sustainability, and they have prioritized environmental stewardship as a core value of their brand.

Award	Year
Good Wood Awards	Multiple Years
Transworld Snowboarding Awards	Multiple Years
ISPO Awards	Multiple Years

Ride’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and quality has earned them numerous recognition and awards over the years. Their products are always designed with the rider in mind, and they continually look for ways to improve and innovate. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner, you can trust Ride’s gear to help you take your snowboarding experience to the next level.

Ride’s signature technologies and features in their snowboards

When it comes to snowboarding, having a quality board can make all the difference in your performance and enjoyment. Ride Snowboards has been producing top-notch snowboards since 1992 and continues to innovate with their signature technologies and features. Here are some of Ride’s standout features:

Hybrid glass: Ride uses hybrid glass in their snowboards, which is a combination of stitched and triaxial fiberglass. This technology results in a stronger board that has better torsional flex.
Roll In Slimewalls: This technology is exclusive to Ride and involves using a urethane sidewall that is 3D-shaped to reduce overall weight while increasing durability. This unique sidewall also helps to absorb vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride.
Cleave Edge: The Cleave Edge is a nearly 50% thicker edge that extends up into the sidewall of the board. This technology provides added durability and impact resistance, resulting in a longer lifespan for your board.

Ride also incorporates several other features that enhance the performance and experience of their snowboards. Some of these features include:

Carbon Array: This technology involves inserting carbon stringers into the board’s core. The result is increased power and response, especially when it comes to carving and jumping.
Twin hybrid rocker: Many of Ride’s snowboards feature a hybrid rocker profile that combines camber and rocker for better edge hold and float in powder.
Sintered base: A sintered base is more durable, faster, and holds wax better than traditional extruded bases. Ride uses sintered bases on all of their high-end snowboards.

Ride vs. other snowboard brands

When comparing Ride to other snowboard brands, it’s clear that their attention to detail and dedication to technology sets them apart. While other brands may prioritize design over performance, Ride ensures that their boards are high-quality and built to last.

In conclusion, Ride Snowboards is a top-notch brand that produces high-quality boards with standout technologies and features. If you’re in the market for a new snowboard, Ride is definitely worth considering.

Comparing Ride to other top snowboard brands in the market

When it comes to choosing a snowboard brand, the options can be overwhelming. Here, we will compare Ride to other top snowboard brands in the market to help you make an informed decision on which one to choose.

Burton: Burton is arguably one of the most popular snowboard brands in the market. While both Burton and Ride offer quality products, Ride is generally more affordable. Additionally, Ride is known for their innovative technology, such as their Slimewalls which offer a smoother ride and better impact absorption.
Lib Tech: Lib Tech is a popular choice for those seeking eco-friendly options. While both Lib Tech and Ride offer innovative technologies, Lib Tech tends to be more expensive. However, their boards are made from sustainable materials and are created using environmentally-friendly practices.
GNU: Like Lib Tech, GNU offers eco-friendly options. However, Ride tends to have a wider range of board options to choose from. Additionally, Ride’s boards are generally more affordable.

Ultimately, the choice between Ride and other top snowboard brands in the market is a personal one. While price and unique features should be considered, it is important to choose a brand that offers a board that fits your individual needs and riding style.

When it comes to Ride’s specific offerings, they have a wide range of snowboards to choose from. Their technology, such as the aforementioned Slimewalls, and their Cleave Edge technology which provides added durability, make them stand out in the market. Additionally, their boards come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit every rider’s needs.

Brand	Price Range	Unique Features
Ride	$300-$700	Slimewalls, Cleave Edge, Variety of Styles and Sizes
Burton	$350-$800+	Flying V, Channel binding system, Wide variety of boards and designs.
Lib Tech	$550-$750	Eco-friendly, Magne-Traction, Award-winning designs
GNU	$400-$700	Eco-friendly, Asymmetrical designs, Rider tested and approved

Overall, Ride is a great option for those seeking an affordable yet innovative snowboard brand. By comparing it to other top snowboard brands in the market, it is clear that Ride holds its own with its unique features and wide range of offerings.

The price range of Ride snowboards compared to competitors

When it comes to the world of snowboarding, Ride is a well-known and respected brand. But how does their price range stack up against competitors? Let’s take a closer look.

Ride offers a range of snowboards at different price points – from around $300 for their entry-level boards up to $700 for their high-end models.
Compared to competitors like Burton and Lib Tech, Ride’s prices fall somewhere in the middle. While they may not be the cheapest option, they also aren’t the most expensive.
However, it’s worth noting that price isn’t always the most important factor when it comes to choosing a snowboard. Ride has a reputation for producing high-quality, durable boards that can last for years – so while you may pay a little more upfront, you could end up saving money in the long run by not having to replace your board as frequently.

Of course, every snowboarder has different priorities and preferences when it comes to choosing a board. Some may prioritize price above all else, while others are willing to spend more for a board that meets their specific needs and preferences. At the end of the day, it’s up to each individual rider to decide which factors are most important to them.

Still, if you’re interested in getting a sense of how Ride’s prices compare to other brands, take a look at the table below:

Brand	Lowest-priced board	Highest-priced board
Ride	$299.95	$699.95
Burton	$279.95	$799.95
Lib Tech	$259.99	$719.99

As you can see, Ride’s prices are generally comparable to those of their competitors. However, it’s worth noting that individual boards within each brand’s lineup may vary in price, so be sure to do your research and consider all factors when making your decision.

Ride’s focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices in their production

As a company, Ride has made a considerable effort to reduce their carbon footprint and implement sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their production. These practices include:

Using eco-friendly materials: Ride sources eco-friendly materials for their snowboards, bindings, boots, and outerwear. Specifically, they use bio-plastic top sheets made from castor beans and bamboo instead of wood cores, which are commonly used in snowboards. This reduces the demand for wood and lowers the environmental impact of Ride’s snowboards.
Reducing waste: Ride is committed to minimizing waste and maximizing the use of resources. They have implemented recycling programs to reduce waste in their manufacturing facilities, including recycling programs for cardboard, plastic, and metal scraps.
Using renewable energy: Ride uses 100% renewable energy to power their manufacturing facilities. They installed solar panels to generate energy in their headquarters in Seattle, making them one of the few snowboard companies to generate renewable energy for their production processes.

Ride has also partnered with several organizations to further their sustainability efforts. One of their notable partnerships is with Protect Our Winters (POW), a non-profit organization that raises awareness about climate change and advocates for policies to combat it. Ride’s partnership with POW includes funding, advocacy, and education to support their mission.

Overall, Ride has set an example for snowboard brands by making a significant effort to reduce their environmental impact. Their focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices demonstrates their commitment to preserving the planet and ensuring future generations have access to enjoy the sport of snowboarding.

Here is a table summarizing Ride’s sustainability initiatives:

Sustainability Initiatives	Description
Eco-friendly materials	Ride uses bio-plastic top sheets made from castor beans and bamboo instead of wood cores in their snowboards.
Reducing waste	Ride has implemented recycling programs for their manufacturing facilities to minimize waste and maximize the use of resources.
Renewable energy	Ride uses 100% renewable energy to power their manufacturing facilities, including solar panels in their Seattle headquarters.

Through their sustainability initiatives, Ride has become one of the most eco-friendly snowboard brands, encouraging other companies to follow suit for the betterment of the environment.

Customer reviews and feedback on Ride snowboards

When it comes to evaluating the quality of a product, there’s no substitute for hearing from those who have used it firsthand. For those considering purchasing a Ride snowboard, customer reviews and feedback can help shed light on the brand’s strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at what customers have to say about Ride snowboards.

Many riders rave about the Ride brand, citing its durability, quality, and overall performance as reasons to choose this brand over others.
One standout feature that repeatedly receives positive feedback is the brand’s use of Hybrid Glass in their boards, which many riders say provides an ideal combination of pop, stability, and lightness.
Customers have also noted the brand’s commitment to sustainability, with specific praise for the Ride’s use of bio-based materials in their boards.

Despite the overwhelming number of positive reviews, there are a few complaints raised by Ride customers that may be worth noting:

Some customers have reported issues with Ride snowboards chipping or breaking earlier than expected, despite the brand’s reputation for durability.
There have also been a few complaints about the graphics on certain boards fading quickly or peeling off after minimal use.
Lastly, a few users have mentioned that Ride snowboards can be slightly heavier than other brands, which can be a hindrance for those who prefer a lighter board for park or freestyle riding.

Overall, customer reviews and feedback suggest that Ride snowboards are a solid choice for riders of all levels. While there are some criticisms to consider, most riders are extremely satisfied with the performance of their Ride boards, as well as the brand’s commitment to sustainability and quality materials.

Pros	Cons
– Durable	– Some reports of chipping/breaking
– Hybrid Glass provides excellent performance	– Graphics may fade or peel
– Sustainability is a priority for the brand	– Slightly heavier than other brands

The variety of Ride snowboards for different riding styles and skill levels

Ride Snowboards is a snowboard brand that has been producing high-quality boards for over 25 years. They are known for their versatile and durable snowboards that cater to different riding styles and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, Ride has a board that suits your needs.

All-Mountain Boards: These boards are designed to perform well in various terrain and conditions. They are versatile and can handle anything from groomers to powder runs. The Ride Berzerker and Ride Machete are great examples of all-mountain boards.
Park and Freestyle Boards: Park and freestyle boards are designed for riders who love to hit the terrain park and perform tricks. These boards are shorter and more flexible, making it easier to ride switch and perform spins. The Ride Kink and Ride Helix are popular park and freestyle boards.
Freeride Boards: Freeride boards are designed for riders who love to ride off-piste and in deep powder. These boards are typically longer and have a wider waist width for better stability and float in deep snow. The Ride Timeless and Ride Contra are great freeride boards.
Splitboards: Splitboards are a type of snowboard that can be split into two halves for touring. They are designed for backcountry riding and can access remote terrain that is usually inaccessible by lifts. The Ride Alter Ego and Ride Split Pig are popular splitboards.

Ride Snowboards also offer boards for different skill levels. They have beginner-friendly boards that are easy to ride and forgiving, as well as advanced boards that require more skill and experience to ride.

If you are a beginner, the Ride Agenda and Ride Rapture are great options. These boards have a softer flex, making it easier to turn and control. They are also more forgiving, which means you are less likely to catch an edge and fall.

Advanced riders can opt for the Ride Warpig or Ride Berzerker. These boards are stiffer and more aggressive, making it easier to carve and ride fast. They are also more responsive, which means you can ride with more control and precision.

Skill Level	Board Type	Example Boards
Beginner	All-Mountain	Ride Agenda, Ride Rapture
Intermediate	Park and Freestyle, All-Mountain	Ride Helix, Ride Machete
Advanced	Freeride, Park and Freestyle	Ride Berzerker, Ride Warpig

In conclusion, Ride Snowboards offer a variety of boards for different riding styles and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, Ride has a board that suits your needs. They are known for their durable and versatile boards that can perform well in various terrain and conditions. Choose the right board for you and enjoy the ride!

Collaborations and Partnerships of Ride with Other Brands or Athletes in the Industry

Ride is a highly reputable snowboarding brand that has been in the industry for over 25 years. The brand has built its reputation through the development of high-quality snowboards that guarantee top performance on the slopes. In addition to its high-quality products, Ride has collaborated with various brands and athletes in the industry to further increase its presence in the market.

Collaboration with Vans: Ride and Vans collaborated to develop a unique collection of snowboard boots that ensured top performance on the slopes. The collaboration provided riders with a range of options that catered to their preferences and needs.
Collaboration with Yes Snowboards: Ride partnered with Yes Snowboards to create a fusion board that incorporated the best features of both brands. The partnership resulted in a board that provided riders with exceptional performance and durability.
Athlete partnerships: Ride has partnered with some of the top athletes in the industry, including Jake Blauvelt, Yuki Kadono, and Hana Beaman. These partnerships have enabled Ride to gain wider exposure in the market while also providing riders with access to some of the most talented individuals in the industry.

The collaborations and partnerships that Ride has established with various brands and athletes in the industry reflect the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence. These partnerships have enabled Ride to diversify its product offerings, attract new customers, and reinforce its position as a leading brand in the snowboarding industry.

Besides, Ride has developed various partnerships with resorts, including the Brighton Resort, where it has its park and runs the annual Ride Snowboards Presents Bright Snowboarding Invitational event. Through such partnerships, the brand has reached wider audiences and enabled its customers to have unique experiences on the slopes.

Partner Name	Type of Partnership
Vans	Collaboration
Yes Snowboards	Collaboration
Jake Blauvelt	Athlete Partnership
Yuki Kadono	Athlete Partnership
Hana Beaman	Athlete Partnership
Brighton Resort	Resort Partnership

From the table above, it’s evident that Ride has developed various partnerships to reinforce its position in the market and provide riders with exceptional experiences on the slopes. The brand’s collaborations and partnerships have enabled it to gain wider exposure in the market, diversify its product offerings, and attract new customers. By partnering with other brands and athletes in the industry, Ride has positioned itself as a leading snowboarding brand that is committed to innovation, excellence, and customer satisfaction.

Is Ride a Good Snowboard Brand?

1. What makes Ride a good snowboard brand?

Ride is known for producing high-quality, durable snowboards that cater to riders of all skill levels. Their boards are made using innovative technologies and materials, ensuring that they perform well on the slopes.

2. Are Ride snowboards versatile?

Yes, Ride produces snowboards that can be used in a variety of snow conditions. Their boards are suitable for all-mountain riding, park riding, and even backcountry adventures.

3. What is the price range of Ride snowboards?

Ride offers snowboards at different price points, ranging from budget-friendly models to high-end ones. Their snowboards typically cost between $300 and $800.

4. Can beginners use Ride snowboards?

Yes, Ride offers snowboards that are suitable for beginners. Their boards provide stability and control, making them ideal for those who are just starting out.

5. How durable are Ride snowboards?

Ride snowboards are known for their durability and performance. They are built to last, with features like impact plates and high-strength materials that can withstand wear and tear.

6. Do Ride snowboards come with a warranty?

Yes, Ride offers a limited warranty on all of their snowboards. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and workmanship for up to four years from the date of purchase.

7. Where can I buy Ride snowboards?

Ride snowboards can be purchased online or at select retail stores. They are available at many snow sports retailers around the world.

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for taking the time to read about Ride, a great snowboard brand. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced rider, Ride has something for everyone. With their commitment to quality and innovation, you can trust that you’re getting a great snowboard that will perform well on the slopes. Thanks again for reading, and be sure to come back for more great content!