Venture Skyler Special

Shape Shack progresses snowboard shapes

By E-Mo

Snowboards, like the souls that ride them, are shaped by their mountain surroundings. So it’s no wonder the Shape Shack and Venture Snowboards took root in Colorado’s wild and rugged San Juan Mountains. Based out of Silverton and led by Venture’s head shaper Klemens Branner, also one of the company’s owners, the Shape Shack is the experimental arm of this boutique big mountain brand.

The Shape Shack’s philosophy is simple: With infinite ways to ride the mountain, there are just as many shapes to do it on. Here new ideas are tested by their team as well as guest shapers including snowboard legend Johan Olofsson. The result? Progression.

Limited edition decks are available to the public, and some of the innovations have made their way into production.

For their latest batch of shred-tacular shapes, Venture teamed up with Silverton Guides and backcountry badass Skyler Holgate, of SASS Global Tours, to make the Skyler Special. It is the perfect fusion of surf/skate style that also suits the steeps.

I found this twin to be playful and nimble in tight quarters and on natural terrain features. With a poplar/ash core and triaxial fiberglass construction, it has plenty of pop and a lighter, more balanced spin-weight than similar, older model Venture boards. Airs and tricks come with ease.

Don’t let the shape fool you, however. At speed and in the steep, variable terrain of Lone Mountain, I still found in the 160 plenty of board to help me stand and deliver. All of this combined with the sturdy construction and proven durability Venture is know for should put this board on the radar of any serious freestyle rider looking to bring their game to the peaks.

Want to know how a Venture rides for yourself? Swing in to Moonride Rental at the Madison and check out their demo fleet. $595 venturesnowboards.com