Kitvore.com

Kitvore.com

Specs that matter. Gear that fits.

Snowboard · Base Material · Extruded

I've seen extruded bases on cheaper snowboards—does that mean they're low quality and I should avoid them?

Not at all! Extruded bases get a bad rap, but they're actually the right choice for certain riders. They're made by melting and pushing out polyethylene, which creates a dense, non-porous surface. The big trade-off is speed: extruded bases are slower than sintered ones, especially on flat traverses and cat tracks.

Where extruded bases shine is maintenance. They don't absorb wax, so you don't need to wax them regularly—great if you're not into tuning your gear. They're also easier and cheaper to repair when you gouge them on a rail or rock. That's why park riders and beginners often prefer them.

If you're a casual rider hitting the mountain occasionally, a park rat grinding rails, or someone who just doesn't want to deal with waxing, an extruded base is a smart, practical choice. Just don't expect blazing speed on the flats.