You will definitely have seen DC shoes and hoodies around town. But they also make a massive range of snowboarding gear. So is DC a good snowboard brand?
DC is a very good snowboard brand. They are well-known in the snowboarding industry and have a reputation for producing high-quality gear, including snowboards, boots, and apparel. Having been around for over 20 years, they’ve built a solid reputation among snowboarders.
Before you whip out the wallet, let’s look at whether DC make the right snowboarding gear for you…
Who Are DC Snowboards?
DC Snowboards was founded in 1994 by Ken Block and Damon Way. Having co-founded the skateboarding shoe company, DC Shoes, expanding into snowboarding was inevitable.
DC Snowboards offers a huge range of snowboarding products, including snowboards, boots, bindings, outerwear, and accessories.
The brand is known for its high-quality products that cater to both professional and recreational snowboarders.
DC Snowboards also sponsor a number of professional snowboarders and have a super strong presence in the snowboarding community.
DC Snowboard Tech
Whilst DC make some pretty good snowboards, they’re definitely better known for their boot line.
Their boots benefit from DC’s many decades of skate shoe experience. This has allowed them to introduce some ground-breaking new technology.
For example:
Unilite Technology: DC’s Unilite tech is a super lightweight and durable sole construction. It provides excellent shock absorption as well as improved board feel.
Aerotech Ventilation System: A proprietary technology that regulates temperature and keeps your feet dry, by allowing air to circulate through the boot.
- BOA Closure Systems: BOA involves using a metal coil system instead of laces. This allows you to quickly and easily adjust your fit.
3D Tongue: A pre-curved design that conforms to the shape of your foot. This gives a more natural and comfortable fit.
Impact S Insole: A custom-designed footbed that provides superior shock reduction, reduces fatigue and improves overall comfort.
But their snowboards are certainly no slouch. DC have packed a similar amount of tech into their board line-up.
This includes features like:
- Stratus Core: A lightweight and durable wood core that provides excellent pop and response.
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Carbon Quadrax: Carbon Quadrax is a proprietary carbon fiber weave incorporated into the board’s fiberglass layer. This increases torsional strength and response.
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Sintered Supreme Base: DC’s Sintered Supreme Base is super fast and surprisingly durable. Mine survived several attacks by submerged rocks!
Pros And Cons Of DC Snowboards
- Brand reputation: DC Shoes are a well-established brand in the snowboarding community, known for their commitment to quality and innovation.
- Durability: These things are well built!
- Performance: Their boards, boots and apparel perform super well.
- Freestyle focused: With a crazy pro snowboarder line-up, it's no surprise that DC make some epic freestyle gear.
- Availability: DC Snowboards are harder to come by than other brands (in some regions).
- Taste: Some may find their designs too flashy or bold.
What Are The Best DC Snowboard Boots?
DC make some incredible snowboard boots. They are super comfortable right out of the box. So much so that I’ve worn most of their line-up over the years.
The Judge is comfortably my favorite boot of all time!
Flex: 7/10
Closure System: Dual Boa
Liner: Responsive Liner III
Lifespan: Mine lasted ~90 days of riding
- Super comfortable
- Very responsive
- Minimal packing out
- Dual boa offers amazing customization
- They now make a Burton step-on version!
✖️ Slightly pricier, aim to get them on-sale
Which Is The Best DC Snowboard?
A tricky question. Different boards will suit different riders.
That being said, the DC Ply is an incredible all-rounder. I challenge you to not have fun whilst riding this board!
The Ply incorporates DC’s Lock and Load camber profile which increases pop whilst reducing hookiness. It also has the aforementioned stratus core and a super durable extruded base.
Where To Buy DC Snowboards
These are my preferred online stores. They have excellent customer service and industry-leading returns policies.
United States: Evo
Europe: Blue Tomato
Is DC a Good Snowboard Brand For Beginners?
DC are a great brand for beginners, particularly for boots and outerwear. Whilst their products cater to all ability levels, there are plenty of options for new riders.
Final Thoughts On DC Snowboards
DC make some excellent gear. I always have a pair of DC boots in my board bag. My current jacket of choice is also made by DC.
If you have any experience with DC, you tell me… Is DC a good snowboard brand?
Let me know.
Still deciding between brands? Check out the most popular snowboard brands.
Happy riding!
