The Solution from Jones Snowboards is a split which performs admirably in all types of terrain and conditions. I’ve been riding the Solution for three seasons now, and I’ve really appreciated it’s reliability and predictability in all snow types from powder to ice. Although I recently upgraded to custom Chimera Mace for riding on the volcanoes, the Solution still holds a place in my quiver and gets used several times each winter.
General Impressions: The Solution is marketed as an “all conditions” board, but one of the first things I noticed was how well it performs in powder. The blunt nose and directional rocker definitely make a difference and slashing through the deep stuff on this board is a cinch. The overall weight of the board is right in there with similar boards from other companies, and the 161 cm length handles my 175 lb frame plus pack and gear without issue. With the same specifications as the Flagship (the solid version of the Solution that I use for ski patrolling), it’s no wonder the board feels so nice under my feet.
On the Skin Track: The Solution is a solid split. It tours exceptionally well with the Karakoram SL bindings, and I’ve used it with Spark Burner’s with similar results. The combination camber/rocker profile of the base provides more than adequate purchase while skinning, and the width of the skis aren’t too wide, which means you don’t have to break trail even when you’re following a skier.
In Ride Mode: I’ve been very pleased with how the Solution rides. As indicated above, powder performance is great, and the board definitely excels in corn, crud and other conditions. The 9.1 m sidecut (on the 161 cm) allows for quick turn initiation in firm snow, and the camber underfoot coupled with the directional rocker at the tip and tail make the board nice to ride in less than optimal conditions. Mellow magenetraction along the edges add a bit of stability in icy conditions (at least theoretically), and the blunt design of the board’s nose keeps you floating through the pow. One extra nicety with respect to riding is that the board comes equipped with split clips from Karakoram, which really keep the board halves clamped together.
Bottom Line: After some initial quality control concerns during the first year or two of production, Jones has righted the ship and is producing one of the finest all conditions splits on the market. If you want a board that can handle everything, check out the Solution!
More Info: More information about the Solution Split can be found at Jones Snowboards
