Ever since I started using my 2001 Burton Custom 142 snowboard, I have become a much better rider, without changing much of my riding style at all. The Custom’s design simply allows me to do things that cheaper boards could not handle, and the difference has been phenomenal. I researched a few boards before I became set on buying either the Burton Feelgood (a woman’s board) or the Burton Custom. After hearing me constantly rave about how versatile the Custom is and how much I wanted to have it, my boyfriend decided to buy each of us one for Christmas. They both have the signature 2001 geometric design: his is the silver 160.5 with an orange/red base; mine is the teal 142 with a black/teal base.

Cost & Quality
At a manufacturer’s suggested price of $459, the Burton Custom is undoubtedly one of Burton’s most expensive snowboards. It is one of the more expensive boards across the market, but definitely worth the price. We actually got our boards for a discounted price of $375 each at a small “mom and pop” retailer, which is a pretty good deal for buying a brand new board somewhat early in the season. At larger chain stores such Sports Chalet, Peter Glenn, and Chick’s, we would always see the Custom and other Burton boards sold at the manufacturer’s suggested price.

I decided to get a Burton in part because Burton is one of the oldest and most respected manufacturers of quality snowboard equipment. They even provide “W48” service, in which all warranty-covered repairs have a turn-around rate of 48 hours. The Burton Custom, in particular, has the quality of materials and design that I was looking for in a freeride/freestyle board. It has what Burton calls a Super Fly II wood core, which keeps the board extremely light for easy maneuvering. Its base is sintered, which makes it a fast board that holds wax well. The edges are angled and extremely sharp. I also knew I made a good decision with the Custom because I would often overhear it being praised as an excellent all-around board whenever I was browsing around in board shops.

The Ride
I used to rent several brands of boards, including K2, Original Sin, and Burton, before I decided to get a board of my own. By no means can cheap, worn-down rentals from resorts or boarding shops compare to the quality of the Custom, but that was exactly what I was looking for. Something that absolutely would not remind me of rentals! With rentals, it was always horrible to have to adjust every time got a different board, not knowing how each one would ride until I got on the slopes. Ideally, I wanted one quality board that I could be accustomed to over time, and one that could keep up with me as my skills improved. With its versatility, I knew the Burton Custom was the one.

Just from picking the board up, I could tell that the Custom would be easy to maneuver. It is extremely light, thin, and has a good amount of flex. While I would always catch an edge with those hard, heavy rentals, the Custom keeps me on my feet. Stopping and turning, which were once a huge ordeal with unresponsive boards, becomes second nature with the Custom. Along with my Burton Contour strap-in bindings and Burton Zone boots, my Custom does practically whatever I want it to. I'm amazed at the flex and precise turning beneath my feet as I carve down the mountain. I can also see the pop and flex in by boyfriend's board whenever he does jumps and tricks. We both agree that the Custom is extremely responsive.

Overall Thoughts
The Custom is closer to being a pro board than a beginner board, but as an advanced beginner, I believe my Custom has improved my skills and definitely boosted my confidence on the slopes. I find myself doing things that other people in my skill level can’t do, and I’ll be the first to (not!) tell them that its largely in part because I have an incredible board. If I could turn back time and choose between the Feelgood and the Custom, I would still choose the Custom...hands down. Even though the Feelgood is designed by women for women, and is basically a lighter, narrower Custom (also made of the same materials), I feel the Custom will be more durable and hold up better over time. As a light weight rider with small feet, the Custom 142 suits me fine. This board is amazing and definitely worth looking at if you're in the market for a new snowboard.

Recommended: Yes