• Price: £295
• Sizes: 139, 145, 151, 155, 157W, 158, 160, 160W, 164W
• Flex: 4
• Profile: Flat
• Shape: Directional Twin
• BURTON.COM

There was a time when beginner snowboards, were, with very few exceptions, absolute crap. Rather than an aid to the learning process, they were something to be overcome. These days, however, many snowboard brands have realised that a few slight changes here and there can make a massive difference to an entry-level stick, without the need to raise the price.

The Burton Clash has been mostly been left untouched for 2016/17. After ditching the rocker profile in favour of flat base last year, it’s hard to see what further improvements could be made. It’s stable yet flexible, with an extruded base that doesn’t require a lot of know-how to get the most out of.

“If you’re a first-time buyer that wants something they aren’t likely to outgrow any time soon, have a gander at the Burton Clash”

The combination of flat base and predictable, easily-manipulated biax fibreglass makes initiating turns a breeze, with no contact points to catch in the snow. The nose of the board has been shaped with a subtle convex roll, making edge changes smoother than ever and further minimising the possibilities of a harsh ‘scorpion’ (if you don’t know what that is, the Clash hopes to ensure that you never will).

It has a slight directional element, with a tapered tail that makes mastering the basics of backcountry riding a little easier. However, the flex is even throughout, so if you’d rather focus on improving your switch riding it’ll gladly oblige. With its flat base it’s ideal for learning freestyle too, as it’s unlikely to catch on boxes and can be sent skywards without a lot of rider input.

There may eventually come a day when you’ll want to trade in your Burton Clash for something more high-end, or more specialist. It’s not a given, mind you; we’ve come across many experienced shred heads who rave about the days they’ve had on the Clash, as well as the extra cash that they had for their next trip. If you’re a first-time buyer that wants something they aren’t likely to outgrow any time soon, have a gander at the Burton Clash.