Overview of the Jones Hovercraft 2.0
In the competitive landscape of snowboarding gear, the Jones Hovercraft 2.0 emerges as a notable contender for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling ride on powder days. Known for its sustainability and performance, this snowboard encapsulates not just fun but also responsibility towards our environment.
For those unfamiliar, the Hovercraft series has been around since 2010, and it's evolved significantly since then. I had the opportunity to test the latest iteration on various terrains, and my experiences reaffirm the Hovercraft's stature in the snowboarding community.
Design Innovations
The design of the Hovercraft 2.0 highlights several advancements that contribute to its performance:
- 3D Spoon Shape: The board features a more pronounced 3D “spoon” shape at the nose, with 12 mm of bevel that enhances floatation in powder without snagging on hard snow.
- Taper and Flex: With a taper of 17 mm, it gets significantly skinnier towards the tail, allowing for better maneuverability while maintaining a medium flex, great for both steeps and trees.
- Traction Tech: This unique serration on the edges helps the board bite into hard snow, though some may find it less effective than competitors' offerings.
Performance on Powder
During my testing, I embarked on a memorable trip to Japan, where back-to-back storms transformed the landscape into a snow wonderland. With conditions like these, the Hovercraft 2.0 proved itself to be a champion of float and agility. Here's how it performed:
Reflecting on my experiences, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the board kept me afloat, particularly when leaning back to navigate deeper snow. I managed to land jumps and effortlessly maintain speed, a testament to the board's design and capabilities.
“I can't believe how good this board is; it has taken me down some of the most memorable runs of my life.”
Versatility Beyond Powder
While specializes in off-piste conditions, the Hovercraft 2.0 does not shy away from groomed trails. The board has a long sidecut facilitating beautiful, arcing carves. Its performance on hard-packed snow is commendable, although advanced riders might find it lacking the liveliness they crave.
Impact on the Environment
What stands out the most is that this may be the most sustainable snowboard on the market. Jones Snowboards has worked hard to incorporate various recycled materials into the Hovercraft 2.0:
- Recycled Components: Utilizing the new Re-Up Technology, they upcycle materials from used surfboards.
- Eco-friendly Materials: The board features recycled steel, a carbon-neutral flax fiber topsheet, and a bio resin that reportedly reduces CO2 emissions by 33%.
This commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with me, aligning with my belief that enhancing outdoor experiences should come with a focus on preserving our environment.
Pros and Cons
As with any product, there are both strengths and weaknesses to the Jones Hovercraft 2.0:
Pros:
- Unmatched float in powder
- Exceptional performance in trees and steep terrains
- Eco-friendly materials
Cons:
- Requires more effort to transition from edge to edge due to its width
- Limited pop for jumps
- Not ideal for continuous groomer riding
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Jones Hovercraft 2.0 is not just a snowboard; it's a thoughtful innovation for the environmentally conscious rider who prioritizes performance in deep powder. The Hovercraft 2.0 excels in its intended realm while also reflecting a responsible approach to gear production. It has the potential to delight both casual riders and seasoned veterans seeking their next adventure. If powder days are your obsession, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this board a chance!
Explore it here or check out dealers to see how the Hovercraft 2.0 can transform your experience in the snow.
Source reference: https://www.wired.com/review/jones-hovercraft-20-snowboard/
