• Price: £260 / €280
• Lengths: 110, 120, 130, 140
• Flex: 2
• Profile: Rocker
• Shape: Directional Twin
• arborcollective.com

Tech-wise, the Arbor Helix resembles the Formula from the adults’ range. It has the same all-poplar core, extruded base and rocker profile. Plus the graphic isn’t all that kid-specific, so from a distance you might not notice that it’s a kid’s board. That’s all down to preference, of course, but clearly Arbor have taken this one seriously.

“The shape is more traditional than some of the sticks in their 2017/18 range, and that’s probably better suited to the emerging grom who’s yet to fully forge their riding style”

Taking a closer look at the profile, Arbor’s version of rocker varies throughout the length of the board. A more pronounced bend near the middle becomes less so as you move out towards the nose and tail, so it’s a little easier to engage an edge when you want to.

Futhermore, there are extra contact points right at the binding inserts, the idea being that you get extra grip when traversing across an icy face, and smoother turn initiation when you’re ready to descend.

The shape of the Arbor Helix is more traditional than some of the sticks in their 2017/18 range, and that’s probably better suited to the emerging grom who’s yet to fully forge their riding style. It also comes with a three year warranty – although your grom will probably outgrow it in that time, it’s tough enough to serve well as a hand-me-down.