The described item refers to a specific snowboard model released by Lib Tech in the year 2017. This snowboard is characterized by its unique “Banana Technology,” a reverse camber profile designed to enhance float in powder and improve turning ease on hardpack. The name also alludes to its playful and forgiving nature, making it a popular choice for riders of various skill levels.
Its significance lies in its role as a game-changer in snowboard design. The incorporation of reverse camber revolutionized snowboarding, allowing for greater maneuverability and accessibility, especially for beginners. The models impact is further solidified by its long-standing reputation for durability and performance, cementing its place as a benchmark in the industry. Its introduction helped popularize unconventional snowboard shapes and constructions.
Subsequent sections will delve into the specific construction details, riding characteristics, and target audience, providing a complete overview. This analysis will facilitate a deeper understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, enabling informed decisions for potential buyers or those interested in the evolution of snowboarding technology.
Guidance for Optimizing the Experience
The following recommendations are designed to maximize the performance and longevity of the aforementioned snowboarding equipment, ensuring a satisfying experience for the rider.
Tip 1: Stance Adjustment: Experimentation with binding angles and stance width is crucial. The board’s forgiving nature allows for a variety of stance options. A wider stance typically enhances stability, while a narrower stance promotes quicker turns.
Tip 2: Edge Control Development: While the design facilitates easy turning, mastering proper edge control is essential for carving and maintaining speed. Focus on initiating turns from the ankles and knees rather than relying solely on body weight.
Tip 3: Regular Waxing: Consistent waxing is vital for optimal glide. The frequency of waxing depends on snow conditions, but a general guideline is to wax every 2-3 riding days. Choose a wax appropriate for the prevailing temperature.
Tip 4: Binding Maintenance: Regularly inspect binding screws and straps for tightness and wear. Loose bindings can compromise control and potentially lead to injury. Replace worn straps or hardware as needed.
Tip 5: Proper Storage: When not in use, store the snowboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents warping of the core and degradation of the base material. A board bag offers additional protection.
Tip 6: Base Repair: Address any base damage promptly. Scratches and gouges can impede glide and expose the core to moisture. Small repairs can be done at home with P-Tex, while larger repairs may require professional attention.
These guidelines, when followed, will contribute to a heightened level of performance and extend the usable lifespan. Regular attention to these details ensures that the equipment remains a reliable asset.
The subsequent sections will provide additional perspectives.
1. Reverse Camber Profile
The association between the reverse camber profile and this snowboard model is foundational to its design and performance. This profile, characterized by an upward arch between the bindings, fundamentally alters the board’s contact points with the snow. Unlike traditional camber, which distributes pressure along the entire edge, reverse camber concentrates pressure toward the center, resulting in enhanced float in powder and reduced edge catch on hardpack. The model exemplifies the practical application of reverse camber, demonstrating its potential to create a more forgiving and user-friendly riding experience.
The impact of this profile extends beyond mere ease of use. By minimizing edge hold, it encourages riders to experiment with new techniques and progress more rapidly. It is particularly beneficial for beginners who may struggle with traditional camber’s tendency to “catch” an edge, leading to falls. Furthermore, the enhanced float afforded by reverse camber expands the board’s versatility, making it suitable for a wider range of snow conditions. It does, however, reduce edge hold at times. This has a cause and effect on more advanced riders.
In summary, the reverse camber profile is not merely a feature of this snowboard; it is integral to its identity and intended purpose. It defines its riding characteristics, target audience, and overall value proposition. Understanding this connection is crucial for appreciating the design philosophy behind the board and evaluating its suitability for specific riding styles and skill levels. It also paved the way for a more dynamic approach to learning for those starting out.
2. Magne-Traction Edges
The incorporation of Magne-Traction edges into the snowboard design represents a significant technological advancement, particularly relevant to the performance characteristics. These edges, characterized by strategically placed serrations along the steel, enhance grip and control, especially on hardpack and icy conditions.
- Enhanced Edge Hold
Magne-Traction functions by creating multiple contact points along the edge, mimicking a serrated knife. This increased surface area allows the board to “bite” into the snow more effectively, providing superior grip compared to traditional straight edges. For riders, this translates to greater confidence and stability when navigating challenging terrain. This is key in variable conditions.
- Improved Control on Ice
Icy surfaces pose a significant challenge to snowboarders, often resulting in a loss of control. Magne-Traction’s serrated edges counteract this by penetrating the ice, maintaining edge hold and preventing slippage. This feature is particularly beneficial in regions with fluctuating temperatures and variable snow conditions. This creates a high-performance board.
- Forgiveness and Versatility
While Magne-Traction excels on hardpack and ice, it also contributes to the board’s overall versatility. The enhanced edge hold allows riders to maintain control even when transitioning between different snow conditions. Furthermore, the technology is implemented in a way that complements the board’s forgiving flex, making it accessible to a wide range of skill levels. The rider will have the best experience.
- Durability Considerations
The serrated nature of Magne-Traction edges can, under certain circumstances, increase the risk of edge damage. Impact with rocks or other hard objects can potentially chip or deform the serrations. However, the steel used in the construction of these edges is typically heat-treated to enhance durability, mitigating this risk to some extent. Regardless, regular inspection and maintenance are recommended.
The integration of Magne-Traction edges with other design elements contributes to its reputation for versatility and performance. This feature significantly enhances the board’s ability to handle diverse snow conditions, making it a popular choice for riders seeking a reliable and predictable experience. This makes it a top choice for most boarders.
3. Soft Flex Pattern
The designation “soft flex pattern” in the context of this snowboard model signifies a deliberate design choice that profoundly influences its riding characteristics. A soft flex indicates that the board is relatively easy to bend, requiring less force to initiate turns and maneuver. This characteristic is a defining feature, rendering it particularly suitable for beginner and intermediate riders seeking a forgiving and approachable experience.
The importance of this soft flex is multifaceted. Firstly, it enhances turn initiation, enabling riders to transition between edges with minimal effort. This is especially beneficial for those learning to snowboard, as it reduces the risk of catching an edge and falling. Secondly, the soft flex promotes playful riding, facilitating easier presses and butters on groomed runs and in the terrain park. This characteristic, combined with the Banana Technology (reverse camber), creates a board that is both user-friendly and fun to ride. As an example, a rider encountering icy conditions might struggle to maintain control on a stiff board, but the forgiving flex allows for easier adaptation and recovery. This does increase chatter at speed in comparison to stiff boards.
In summary, the soft flex pattern is an integral component. It contributes directly to its ease of use, playful nature, and suitability for beginner and intermediate riders. Understanding this relationship is crucial for potential buyers seeking a forgiving and versatile snowboard that prioritizes accessibility and fun over high-performance carving. Also, it provides a great experience and a better learning curve overall for riders.
4. Aspen/Paulownia Core
The Aspen/Paulownia core represents a deliberate material selection strategy within the design of the snowboard. Aspen, known for its lightweight and responsive properties, forms the primary structural component, providing stability and edge control. Paulownia, a significantly lighter wood species, is strategically integrated to reduce overall weight without compromising strength. The combination aims to enhance the board’s agility and maneuverability.
The importance of this core composition lies in its influence on the board’s performance characteristics. The lightweight nature of Paulownia contributes to a lower swing weight, facilitating quicker rotations and easier turn initiation. The responsiveness of Aspen ensures that the board remains stable and predictable, even at higher speeds. This balance between weight reduction and structural integrity directly impacts the riding experience. A real-world example includes a rider experiencing reduced fatigue during extended riding sessions due to the lighter overall weight.
In summary, the Aspen/Paulownia core is a critical determinant of performance. It demonstrates a commitment to optimizing weight and responsiveness. This material choice contributes to the board’s intended use profile. The selection also highlights a trend towards sustainable materials in snowboard construction. This has a great impact overall.
5. Eco Sublimation
Eco Sublimation, in the context of the snowboard, refers to a printing process employed to apply graphics to the board’s topsheet. This method distinguishes itself from conventional printing techniques through its utilization of water-based inks and reduced waste production, aligning with environmentally conscious manufacturing practices.
- Reduced Environmental Impact
Traditional printing methods often involve the use of solvent-based inks, which release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. Eco Sublimation, by utilizing water-based inks, significantly reduces the emission of these harmful pollutants, minimizing the environmental footprint. The selection of eco-friendly sublimation benefits the enviroment.
- Minimized Waste Generation
Eco Sublimation processes are designed to minimize waste generation. This is achieved through efficient ink usage and the reduction of excess materials. Some manufacturers also implement recycling programs to further reduce waste, contributing to a circular economy model. The ink usage is more effective, which reduces the carbon footprint.
- Durable Graphics
Despite its environmentally friendly nature, Eco Sublimation does not compromise the durability or vibrancy of the graphics. The sublimation process bonds the ink directly to the topsheet material, resulting in a long-lasting and fade-resistant finish. This ensures that the graphics remain visually appealing throughout the board’s lifespan. Graphics on top sheets also last a long time.
- Aesthetic Versatility
Eco Sublimation allows for a wide range of graphic designs and color options. This enables manufacturers to create visually appealing snowboards without sacrificing environmental responsibility. The flexibility of the process allows for intricate designs and custom graphics, catering to diverse consumer preferences. The vibrant designs also help.
The implementation of Eco Sublimation on the snowboard represents a commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. This choice reflects a broader industry trend towards reducing the environmental impact of snowboard production, demonstrating that performance and aesthetics can be achieved without compromising ecological responsibility. The commitment can be seen in their production standards and environmental impact score.
6. Twin Shape
The designation “twin shape” signifies a symmetrical design where the snowboard’s tip and tail are identical in shape and length. This symmetry directly influences the board’s riding characteristics, particularly its ability to perform equally well in both forward and switch stances. The inclusion of a twin shape in the snowboard is a deliberate design choice, impacting its versatility and suitability for various riding styles, particularly freestyle and park riding. The symmetrical design benefits riders in different conditions.
The importance of the twin shape manifests practically in several ways. For instance, a snowboarder executing a jump in the terrain park can land and ride away in either direction without a change in the board’s handling. This is advantageous for performing tricks and maneuvers that involve switch riding. The twin shape also simplifies learning new tricks, as the rider does not have to adjust to different board characteristics when switching stances. However, in other examples, riders may find that a twin shape offers less directional drive and stability in comparison to directional boards.
In summary, the integration of a twin shape directly contributes to its overall versatility. This shape aligns with the boards playful and forgiving character. While the twin shape enhances the model’s freestyle capabilities, riders seeking optimal performance in carving or backcountry riding may find it less suitable. The twin shape contributes to better overall rider experience in the park.
7. Entry-Level Focus
The snowboard’s design philosophy is deliberately centered on catering to entry-level riders. This focus is not merely a marketing strategy but a core design principle that permeates various aspects of its construction and performance characteristics. This approach prioritizes accessibility and ease of use.
- Forgiving Flex
The soft flex pattern inherent in the design is particularly well-suited for beginners. This softer flex reduces the effort required to initiate turns and allows for greater margin of error, minimizing the likelihood of catching an edge and falling. New riders often lack the strength and technique required to effectively control a stiffer board. The soft flex mitigates these challenges, accelerating the learning process.
- Reverse Camber Profile (Banana Technology)
The “Banana Technology,” characterized by a reverse camber profile, further enhances the board’s user-friendliness. This profile lifts the contact points of the board off the snow, reducing the risk of edge catches and improving float in softer snow conditions. Beginners often struggle with edge control on traditional camber boards. This design element directly addresses this challenge, promoting confidence and control.
- Magne-Traction for Enhanced Grip
Magne-Traction edges, with their strategically placed serrations, provide enhanced grip on hardpack and icy conditions. This feature is particularly valuable for beginners who may lack the experience and skill to maintain control on variable snow surfaces. The added edge hold provided by Magne-Traction increases stability and reduces the risk of slippage, fostering a more secure and confident riding experience.
- Durable Construction
While not exclusively for beginners, the board’s durable construction ensures that it can withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes associated with learning to snowboard. A robust build quality reduces the risk of damage, extending the board’s lifespan and providing long-term value for novice riders. This decreases the frequency of repairs or replacements, minimizing associated costs.
The specific attributes detailed exemplify a cohesive design strategy aimed at maximizing accessibility. This approach fosters a positive initial experience for new snowboarders. All elements of the board contribute synergistically to a forgiving and confidence-inspiring ride. Such an initial experience is important to a rider’s progression.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding the 2017 iteration. These responses aim to provide clear and objective information based on the board’s design and intended use.
Question 1: What rider skill level is best suited for this snowboard?
This model is optimally designed for beginner to intermediate riders. Its forgiving flex and reverse camber profile facilitate ease of use and rapid skill development.
Question 2: What type of terrain is this snowboard best suited for?
The snowboard performs adequately on groomed runs, in the terrain park, and in light powder. Its characteristics may not be suitable for aggressive carving or deep backcountry conditions.
Question 3: How does the Banana Technology (reverse camber) affect performance?
The Banana Technology enhances float in powder, reduces edge catch on hardpack, and promotes easier turn initiation. It may also decrease edge hold in certain conditions.
Question 4: Does the snowboard come with bindings?
The snowboard is typically sold as a standalone board without bindings. Bindings must be purchased separately and properly mounted.
Question 5: What is the recommended stance width for this snowboard?
Recommended stance width varies depending on rider height and preference. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications or a qualified snowboard technician for guidance.
Question 6: How should the snowboard be stored when not in use?
The snowboard should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A board bag provides added protection against damage and environmental factors.
These questions represent a distillation of the most common concerns. Additional information may be found in official product documentation or through consultation with qualified retailers.
The subsequent section will delve into a comparative analysis with other models.
Conclusion
The foregoing analysis has illuminated the salient features, performance characteristics, and intended use of the lib tech skate banana 2017. Its design reflects a deliberate focus on accessibility and forgiveness. The reverse camber profile, soft flex, and Magne-Traction edges synergistically contribute to a user-friendly experience. This renders it particularly well-suited for novice and intermediate riders seeking a versatile board for groomed runs and park environments.
Potential purchasers are encouraged to carefully consider these attributes in relation to their individual skill level, riding style, and preferred terrain. While the 2017 iteration served as a significant milestone in snowboard design, subsequent models have introduced further innovations. A continued evaluation of evolving technologies within the industry remains essential for making informed decisions.
