POWDER KING
The Gyrator strikes a nostalgic chord with its graphics, but there’s nothing retro about the ride. Reverse-camber construction (the deck has a concave bow) enables the Gyrator to float atop powder with the ease of bigger, wider boards. But it can also tackle groomers thanks to its progressive sidecut. The core, which is lightened at tip and tail, made spins and switches more fun than expected. k2snowboards.com
Bonus: The versatility-to-price ratio can’t be beat.
Bummer: The rockered deck can pop up when unweighted and buck an unprepared rider.