Arbor Element Snowboard Review

We like:

The sterling performance; the nods to sustainable wood; Arbor's corporate green commitments and communication

We don't like:

The lack of FSC-like certification for the wood; the way it's prone to wear and tear

SmartPlanet judgement:

On the slopes, this board is a lot of fun. It's incredibly fast, turns relatively easily and is forgivingly stable -- and, best of all, it's versatile enough to use for different types of riding. Under the green and ethical microscope, it scores better than most snow gear, but the lack of sustainable certification for the wood is a touch disappointing. Still, as snowboards go, this one is a handsome, good performer and is certainly riding in the right direction for eco kudos.

Snowboarders have a natural self-interest in eco issues. Climate change brings the spectre of no snow and no boarding, a reality which has filtered through to greener travel for snow holidays. Environmentally friendly gear, however, is still relatively rare. Sure, Patagonia does some recycled slope clothes, but Arbor is pretty much alone with Venture Snowboards as one of the few making sustainably minded boards. Continue reading...