• Price: £215-243 / €240-270
• Lengths: 100, 110, 120, 125, 130
• Flex: 4-4.5
• Profile: Rocker
• Shape: Asymmetric Twin
• gnu.com

Of all the 2017/18 kids boards we looked at, the new Gnu Recess is the only one to have an asymmetric twin shape. Given Gnu’s fondness for asym (just look at the Gnuru, Riders Choice, Ladies Choice and Space Case), it makes sense that they’d eventually let the groms try it out.

“The Gnu Recess also features a mostly-rocker profile with quite a pronounced bend in the middle”

Not only does the sidecut run a little deeper on the heel edge than the toe edge in order to better suit the forces involved, the wood core is also a little softer on the heel side. It’s not something you can see, but the majority of those who’ve tried it love how asym boards turn.

The Gnu Recess also features a mostly-rocker profile with quite a pronounced bend in the middle. Great for powder and pressing, this can nonetheless make it harder to really engage an edge when you need to. That’s why they’ve put mellow camber sections under each foot.

Extra edge control comes from the wavy ‘Magne-Traction’ edges, which grip at several points along the length of the board. This means that it won’t sketch out on firmer terrain, whilst making no difference to your enjoyment of softer snow.

With graphics by Lucas Beaufort and the Mervin factory’s famous eco credentials, there’s plenty to like about the Gnu Recess before even strapping in. Fortunately, the board lives up to it.