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Nidecker Escape 2018-2019 Snowboard Review

  • Sizes: 152, 156, 159W, 162W, 162XW, 165W, 169XW
  • Flex: 5
  • Profile: Camber
  • Shape: Directional Twin
  • Price: £359 / €399

UPDATE: Check out our review of the 2019/2020 Nidecker Escape here

The Nidecker Escape snowboard has had a fairly substantial overhaul for 2018/19, but despite the changes it remains an indeal all-mountain option for the intermediate rider. It may share some DNA with the brand’s precision carving weapons, but this is definitely a more easy-going option.

It’s a return to the wooden look of past years, but that top layer isn’t just for show. Made of ash wood, it helps the Nidecker Escape to absorb harsh vibrations on the mountain. It may not be as lightweight as the alternatives, but for if you value dampening above all else then you’ll love what this adds to the ride.

“At this price point you’ll struggle to find a board that’s quicker right out of the gates”

[monetizer101 search=’nidecker escape’]

The profile is now full camber rather than rocker-camber-rocker mix, so it’s slightly more cut out for serious charging. At the same time the end-to-end stiffness is nothing like what you’d find at the top end of the Nidecker range, so it’s no unforgiving beast. The biax fibreglass is also fairly malleable, so you don’t need to be a master of turns to make this work for you.

Despite the relatively low price of the Nidecker Escape, it features a slick sintered base that’s even got some carbon enhancement. At this price point you’ll struggle to find a board that’s quicker right out of the gates.

The Nidecker Escape would be a great option for a resort-friendly quiver board, but we’d also point any beginners at this one. It’s forgiving enough to get the basics dialled, but you won’t outgrow it in a hurry.

Tester’s Verdict

Dan Wilsonsnowfit.co.uk

“Nidecker has been crafting boards for a number of years for some big names and it’s good to see the passion is still there. I was really drawn to the traditional wood finish, and how smooth the Escape looked in a line up of so many wild and wonderful offerings currently out there.

“It held up well on groomers and through the trees, and wasn’t fazed by end- of-day slush pockets”

Relative to Nidecker’s more advanced boards, the Escape is a softer option that leads to a more forgiving and comfortable ride. I found it super easy-going, giving you a sense of confidence when cruising down the mountain. It held up well on groomers and through the trees, and wasn’t fazed by end- of-day slush pockets.

The Escape is a directional all mountain board ideal for a pleasurable day on the hill, and a solid option for any quiver.”

Tester’s Verdict

John Wellswhitelines.com

“Nidecker came out swinging in the 2017/18 season with the most impressive collection of carving boards the snowboard world has ever seen. With modern legends like the Concept and the Gun – exquisite shapes packed with revolutionary technology – it is clear Nidecker are clearly not willing to step down as kings of carve.

With such a line-up of fancy boards with fancy price tags, it’s easy to overlook Nidecker’s impressive entry-level and mid-range collection, the latter of which is epitomised by the Escape; a true all-mountain board that is brimming with amazing tech features, all at a flabbergasting low price.

“I was truly surprised by the board’s stability and reliability during aggressive carves at high speed”

The expertly-crafted hybrid camber profile holds an edge like you’d expect from a Nidecker, offers forgiving stability at the same time. This coupled with a middle-of-the-road stiffness makes this a serious consideration for anyone wanting all the mountain can offer.

I was truly surprised by the board’s stability and reliability during aggressive carves at high speed – something you’d usually expect to only find in stiffer, true camber boards. The ‘reliable’ theme followed me throughout floaty power runs and park kickers, all the way through to choppy stuff.

Reliability means trust, which in turn, leads to confidence and progression. This is why this board should be a major consideration for both intermediate and advanced riders alike. What it lacks in uniqueness and quirks it makes up for via sheer versatility and performance across the board. The price tag is outstanding too – great value for money!’

[monetizer101 search=’nidecker escape’]

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