Stores 1st Try 2026: Snowboard novelties & tests in Hochfügen

Novelties

The fact that manufacturers bring out a new design for their boards every year is nothing new. But every now and then you can discover some real innovations. Even if some of them are minor, I have seen many sensible changes.

Bindings

Nidecker made the start with the Supermatic system. It now seems to be the new standard in binding technology. Jones, Bataleon and Rome are also using the FASE system. A big advantage over step-in bindings is that the straps are still there and provide a reliable hold! Getting into the binding definitely requires practice until you can continue skiing without stopping after getting off the lift. On the descent, however, I couldn't tell any difference to a binding with two straps.

I was able to check out the new Tech Toes from Spark R&D, which were developed in cooperation with ATK. As usual, they are very well made and the internal feedback from Benny and Luke was consistently positive.

The Supermatic® binding from Nidecker.

Alexandra Zolotykh

Hochfügen, Zillertal

Boards

In addition to the new topsheets, I was able to discover some real innovations. Mats from Stranda told me about new materials that are intended to improve the handling of the new Descender model, as well as the general shape design. Nidecker uses "Orbital Cushioning" technology, which should make riding over hard, uneven snow much more comfortable. Previously only installed in the tech flagship "Megalight", the new "Odyssey Men" will also be equipped with this technology from 2027.

United Shapes will be introducing a new splitboard shape, and the existing models have also been extended in terms of their size range. While there has been a noticeable trend towards shorter boards in recent years - at least for me - some manufacturers are now expanding their product range to include boards over 160 cm. This raises the question: will there ever be a definitive answer when it comes to length vs. width?

The new material from Nidecker convinces in the first practical test.

Alexandra Zolotykh

Hochfügen, Zillertal

Till Mangesius

Shoes

The main changes here are to the BOA system. It may sound petty, but the direction of rotation of the fasteners has been adjusted so that you always turn inwards or forwards. This makes tightening much more intuitive. I myself have an old BOA shoe and it's always a bit annoying to get the left shoe tight. In addition, someone has apparently asked themselves how many BOA systems can be attached to one shoe. Whether the three systems I found as an answer to this question are really necessary will have to be shown in a practical test.

Supporting program

In addition to the outdoor test area, new clothing, helmets, goggles and other equipment will be on display in the indoor area. Thanks to the bar, seating area and podium, the indoor area is the ideal place to stay if it gets too cold outside.

Alba Pardo moderates panel discussions on various topics, including women as a growth engine for the snowboard industry, media, storytelling and ContestHappening in snowboarding.

Conclusion

Mega event! Thanks for letting us be part of it!

I don't really need to say more. All the big brands are there and if you want to test next season's equipment earlier, you should definitely be there. We are looking forward to next year!