• Price: £260 / €300 (with bindings)
• Lengths: 100, 110, 120, 130
• Flex: 1
• Profile: Camber
• Shape: True Twin
• bataleon.com

UPDATE: Check out our review of the 2018/2019 Bataleon Mini Shred here

When you look at the ‘kids boards’ category, a larger-than-average proportion have foregone classic camber in favour of flat or rocker profiles. It makes sense to some degree, given that the traditional bend requires a level of finesse that some younglings may struggle with at first. Of course, Bataelon have never needed to use anything but camber, and the same goes for their kids board – the Bataleon Mini Shred.

“When they’re ready, kids can take on boxes and learn how to really press their nose or tail, and experiment with buttering the piste too”

The reason for this is that their Triple Base Technology helps to reduce the risk of catching an edge when getting to grips with turns. At each end the base is divided into three parts, so the edges are slightly raised off the snow. This gives your young charges a little more margin for error when turning, but once that edge is engaged you get all the bite and control of a camber board.

Given that it’s a true twin, it’s ideal for freestyle. When they’re ready, kids can take on boxes and learn how to really press their nose or tail, and experiment with buttering the piste too. Once they’re confident with their turns, they can really open this one up thanks to beech strips running through the full poplar core, delivering more power and stability at speed.

All in all, the Bataleon Mini Shred is a fine choice for progressing way beyond the green runs. It’s also available to buy as a set with matching bindings, so you’re good to go.