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Snowboards

Jones Hovercraft Split 2021-2022 Splitboard Review

  • Price: £820 / €880 / $880
  • Category: Freeride + Powder
  • Sizes:152, 156, 160
  • Flex: 7/10
  • Shape: Directional
  • Profile: Setback Camber
  • 3D: No
  • Base: Sintered

A considerable number of Jones boards are now also available as a splitboard, and the Jones Hovercraft is one of them. For adventurous riders whose priorities lie at ground level, this one ticks all the right boxes. That shape is just begging to be taken out of bounds in search of something to sink its tail into.

“That shape is just begging to be taken out of bounds in search of something to sink its tail into”

MORE INFO:
JONES.COM

Who Is The Jones Hovercraft Split For?

While even the most grizzled backcountry veteran might have the best day of their life on the Jones Hovercraft splitboard, we reckon this is an ideal vehicle for the novice splitter. Its relatively short, light design allows for more manoeuvrability on the skin track, and when pieced back together it’s ready for any and all conditions.

Shape, Profile and Sidecut

The Jones Hovercraft splitboard shares most of its DNA with the solid version, so be sure to check out our Jones Hovercraft review for the full skinny. Where it differs is that the nose and tail of the splitboard have none of the contouring found on the original. While 3D bases for splitboards is a trick that Jones has now successfully pulled off, it’s not coming to this one just yet.

Just like the outside edge, the inside edge of each half features a wavy design that creates extra contact points with the snow. If the way up is firm, this will make it easier to hold your line and avoid a costly edge slip.

“For adventurous riders whose priorities lie at ground level, this one ticks all the right boxes”

Construction and Materials

Like its solid equivalent, the Jones Hovercraft splitboard has been given a fresh topsheet that ranks higher on the sustainability scale, especially once you factor in the laser-etched graphics that dispense with the need for ink. The Karakoram clips have also been upgraded, but otherwise it’s a similar beast to what came before.

The core may be a relatively basic all-poplar variety, but it’s softer between the feet and stiffer at each end. This makes it easier to twist (often an issue with splitboards), without compromising on stability at speed.

“You know what you’re getting with a Jones Hovercraft, but don’t for a second think that means this one’s gone stale…”

Roundup

You know what you’re getting with a Jones Hovercraft, but don’t for a second think that means this one’s gone stale; it remains a proper powder classic, converting scores more riders to the backcountry with each passing winter. Plus if the snow gods don’t deliver, it’ll turn its hand to regular resort laps better than most splits.

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