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Snowboards

Nidecker Merc 2019-2020 Snowboard Review

UPDATE: Check out our review of the Nidecker Merc Snowboard for 2020/2021 by clicking here.

  • Sizes: 153, 156, 158W, 159, 161W, 164W
  • Flex: 6
  • Profile: Camber
  • Shape: Directional
  • Price: £335 / €350
  • BUY ONLINE

This is a fairly recent addition to the Nidecker family, it was released last year and remains the less pricey option within the range – making it an ideal choice for snowboarders who’re after something less spenny. The Merc is for the more mellow shredders out there, ones who are looking to improve their everyday riding while having fun at the same time.

The camrock profile makes the Merc quite the versatile vehicle. With rocker at both ends, turning is made easy and smooth and you aren’t required to put a whole lot of effort into your turns either (in order for it to look smooth). The rocker sections also give the board more float, so if you prefer an all mountain board that floats smoothly through the white fluffy powder fields as well as it shreds the groomers – the Merc is definitely a valid option.

“You’ll be able to charge down the groomers feeling as indestructible as an old Nokia phone and lighter than dust”

Despite the directional shape, the difference between the nose and the tail is only 1cm, making the Merc a great drive but also manageable to ride switch with. So, whether you want to improve your everyday riding or practice your switch – this board has got your back.

With a mix of different woods (poplar, beech, spruce and paulownia) Nidecker’s created a core that isn’t just strong and responsive, but also ultra-lightweight. You’ll be able to charge down the groomers feeling as indestructible . The carbon and Kevlar that’s been added to the board make it even more durable, while also improving its dampening abilities.

The Nidecker Merc is ideal for riders looking to improve their snowboarding skills; whether it’s by gaining more confidence on the slopes, learning to ride switch, or by getting more experience in powder.

Tester’s Verdict

Rob McCreathWhitelines

“The Merc is a really solid choice for any aspiring beginner and intermediate snowboarders. Mellow enough in the flex and profile to get away with murder, but responsive and damp enough to give it the beans when you’re starting to get the hang of things.

“Whatever Nidecker say about the setback or subtle directional shape, don’t worry about it, it rides as true twinned as anything I’ve been on”

I taught for several days on this one and ended up guiding a client who rode regular (I’m goofy), so spent the majority of my time on it riding switch. Whatever Nidecker say about the setback or subtle directional shape, don’t worry about it, it rides as true twinned as anything I’ve been on.

Obviously the base isn’t crazy rapid. Then again, is that something a beginner or a beginner’s budget really wants? Probably not. It’s a great price for a great all rounder. Maybe just make sure you’ve got plenty stickers to jazz it up a little, eh?”

Tester’s Verdict 2018/19

Dave Crozierrealsnowboarding.co.uk

“Possibly the lightest board I’ve ever ridden, and it shows in its ability to spin, jump, turn and press. This board is fun and full of options for progression.

It can be used anywhere by any snowboarder, but its downfall can be if you buy it in the wrong size. It’s quite a flexible board therefore be sure to buy it in your correct weight category otherwise it might feel a little soft under the feet. This isn’t a bad thing, but you definitely want a snowboard to hold under your boot when you pick up speed.

“Possibly the lightest board I’ve ever ridden”

Where I found this board to excel was in the powder, deep into the tree-lines. It was so light that holding its strength through deep snow and detonating clouds of fresh before setting course back through a 2ft gap inbetween trees was astounding to me.

It’s a board I will forever have in my quiver.”

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