All the surf spiel is completely lost on me; I have about as much business being in the water as Seaborne Freight (RIP). However, even the landlubbers would do well to consider the Mellow for their next purchase.

I had the good fortune to test this over multiple days, during which it went through fresh powder, spring slush, and just about everything in between. At no point did it leave me wanting, and in the right conditions it was a dream. The shape does a lot of the work in the deeper stuff, and when things get choppy it’s definitely on your side, so there was never any need to hold back. As the name would suggest, it was at its finest when dialled back a bit – I honestly can’t remember when I had a better time just cruising on piste than when I was on the Mellow.

“I honestly can’t remember when I had a better time just cruising on piste than when I was on the Mellow”

It’s not quite a quiver killer – no board that shape is – but it’s forgiving enough to take through the park, and even on rails, with a bit of margin for error. Given the relative lack of tail, you get a decent pop out of it too.

So it’s a jack of all trades, and definitely a master of some. The price is right, too; why blow your budget on a pricier stick when you can grab this and still have enough left over for a pair of excellent Kaon X binders.

“With so many brands offering a ‘surf’ inspired option I was keen to see where the Nidecker Mellow would sit alongside some of the more flamboyant options flying around. With its smooth wood finish and an appealing price point, my interest was immediately piqued.

The Mellow series is very much living up to its name; it’s such a laid-back option and really lends itself to that freeride spirit. If you want to get those surfy slashes and whip in and around some trees, you’ll be loving this board.

“If you want to get those surfy slashes and whip in and around some trees, you’ll be loving this board”

As a wider option you can afford to ride it shorter, and this only adds to the fun factor. Don’t let it fool you though – even through crud and harder groomers this won’t let up, and you could easily lay down some sweet carves.

Being such a versatile and easy board to ride, I can’t see anyone not having a good time on this. A welcome addition to any quiver.”