UPDATE: Check out our review of the 2017/2018 Gnu Party Platter here
- Price: £330
- Sizes: 143, 150
- Flex: 6
- Profile: Flat
- Shape: Directional
- K2SNOWBOARDING.COM
A couple of our favourite sticks from last year came from K2. The Cool Bean and the CarveAir both offered fresh takes on snowboard shape, and it’s great to see that the ideas haven’t fizzled out in 2016/17. Indeed, both of those boards return, and are joined in the ‘Enjoyer’ series by some new arrivals – the standout of which is the K2 Party Platter.
As the name suggests, this isn’t one to take too seriously. It’s essentially a more freestyle-friendly version of the Cool Bean. They’ve ditched the stubby swallow tail in favour of something you can ride every which way, chucking tricks off just about any feature that presents itself.
“The K2 Party Platter isn’t in the Enjoyer series for nothing; funseekers of all shapes and sizes are highly encouraged to take one for a spin”
Like all Enjoyers, it’s designed to be ridden shorter than normal – they recommend downsizing between 7cm and 10cm, so be sure to factor that in. Not that you’re likely to forget; it’s very wide, so you won’t be inclined to pick up anything similar to your usual size – besides, it only comes in two relatively short sizes anyway. The 150cm version has a hefty 27cm waist, so you’re still guaranteed to get get decent stability and float in powder.
That’s where to take this, should you get the chance. The slightly early rise towards the nose helps keep you floating, as does the tapered shape. It’s no unforgiving gun, however, so as well as darting through the trees (as you should with just about any short board), be sure to get it in the air, too. It may have directional elements, but it can handle switch riding and the stance is centred.
Naturally that makes it a great choice for end-of-season slush bashing too. Every side hit in sight is up for grabs, and the wide waist means you won’t feel any drag even when it’s really sugary. Don’t expect as much spring as you get from a longer board or one with a pronounced camber profile, but thanks to the ‘ollie bar’ (an insert made from carbon, Kevlar and urethane), there’s more pop than you might think.
The K2 Party Platter isn’t in the Enjoyer series for nothing; funseekers of all shapes and sizes are highly encouraged to take one for a spin.
