Hybrid Profiles

It is increasingly common for snowboards to have a profile that includes both camber and rocker (and sometimes flat sections) in their overall appearance.

Combining these elements gives a rider greater versatility in where they can ride and keeps them feeling engaged with their board as they progress in ability.

1.Hybrid Camber

A camber-dominant hybrid (sometimes called camrock) will have camber between the feet to ensure extra pop and power.

A basic hybrid camber profile would look like this: rocker/camber/rocker.Rocker sits beneath the feet and extends outward into early rise at the tip and tail.

Camber dominates the section between the feet. You can get float with the rockered nose to take on powder without sacrificing the longer, grippier effective edge and speed of a camber board.

Pros: versatility, power behind turns, pop, float in powder, good turn initiation and edge hold at higher speeds.

Rider Style: “all mountain” - groomed runs, off-piste, powder.

Rider Ability: from intermediate riders looking to improve, to advanced/expert looking for the power of camber without sacrificing float.

2.Hybrid Rocker

A rocker-dominant hybrid, on the other hand, has rocker between the feet and camber underfoot. If you were to get eye level you would see, in order: camber/rocker/camber.

Having camber underfoot means that the tip and the tail only make contact with the snow when weighted. This loaded contact creates smooth and effective turning and added power without giving you such a “locked on” feel that traditional camber boards often have. Instead, the rocker in the center creates a loose feel.

Since the nose and tail are not rockered, a board with this profile may not have as much float in powder. Many manufacturers compensate for this by creating a more passive camber underfoot that turns into early-rise rocker.

Pros: versatility, looser feel on the snow, smooth turns, good edge hold, lots of pop in the tip and tail.

Rider Style: freestyle to “all mountain” - groomed runs, off-piste.

Rider Ability: intermediate to advanced.

Published on 11/21/2024 Curated By Snowboarding Expert Tess Kohler

Hybrid profiles deliver the best of both worlds. Find your perfect ride and enjoy every moment on the snow!