PUBLIC Research Snowboard Review 2025 | What’s Good?

PUBLIC Research Snowboard Review Video

"I did an entire season on this board, and I loved it. It is kind of perfect."—Jon

PUBLIC Research Snowboard Basics

The 2025 PUBLIC Research snowboard is the most freeride focused board within the PUBLIC line. The overall directional shape and 8mm of taper makes this board float effortlessly in powder and rail turns on hardpack while maintaining some freestyle DNA that PUBLIC is known for. Carbon stringers are strategically placed in a V pattern in the tip and tail for increased response from the binding to the contact point. This gives the board endless snap in and out of turns and an overall increase in pop. A 20mm wide carbon fiber stringer running tip to tail to increases overall pop and response without increasing torsional flex to keep the board feeling lively and nimble underfoot. Urethane sidewalls are known for their superior damping properties. They’re also very durable against impact on rocks or rails to prevent your board from delaminating. The Poplar Light Wood Core uses 100% FCS certified wood and features strategically placed super lightweight paulownia wood throughout the core to reduce weight but maintain a snappy feel. Strips of hardwood are placed underneath the bindings to reduce board breaks at the binding line and increase insert retention. The sintered base is great for wax absorption and will also help you to carry more speed in all snow conditions.

PUBLIC Research Snowboard Tech Basics

Sizes (cm)  154, 157, 160, 160w
Shape Directional
Rocker/Camber Profile MOUNTAIN ALERT CAMBER—directional version of our tried and true Alert Camber is built around a majority camber profile for edge hold, control and pop. The tip and tail feature early rise with the tip being slightly more exaggerated for increased float in powder and ease of entry into turns.
Flex Rating Flex Rating - Medium/Stiff
Core / Weight

POPLAR LIGHT CORE—premium version of our tried and true Poplar core and uses 100% FCS certified wood. We’ve strategically placed super lightweight paulownia wood throughout the core to reduce weight but maintain a snappy feel. Strips of hardwood are placed underneath the bindings to reduce board breaks at the binding line and increase insert retention. The Poplar Light Core is only used on our highest-end boards.

Laminates

Carbon Stringers are strategically placed in a V pattern in the tip and tail for increased response from the binding to the contact point. This gives the board endless snap in and out of turns and an overall increase in pop.

Biax fiberglass creates a consistent and smooth flexing snowboard tip to tail while allowing the board to stay nimble and predictable.

Binding Compatibility  2 x 4 Insert Pattern

 

Who is the PUBLIC Research Snowboard Best Suited for?

The PUBLIC Research Snowboard is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders who want a freestyle-focused board that can handle all-mountain terrain. Its medium-stiff flex and hybrid camber profile provide stability and edge hold for carving and tackling more challenging terrain. In the park, carving groomers, or exploring the backcountry, the PUBLIC Research Snowboard is a versatile and capable option.

PUBLIC Research Snowboard Test Notes

"I did an entire season on this board, and I loved it. Riding pow, it's amazing. You can sink the tail and keep the nose up. It does well in the trees, carves good, and does side hits well. It is kind of perfect. Carves, really nicely edge to edge. It's really quick, which I love. It just makes it fun to ride all over the hill. It's obviously a powder board, but it's more than that. I love it for groomers, side hits, and pretty much everything in between your pow day. My favourite things about the board: visually, the board's beautiful, it is exactly how I want my board to look. Two are the shape and the camber profile. I find that with camber to rocker, you get the best of both. And three, I love that it's a small brand. I get stoked to support good people who are doing good things. The Public Research is great if you're looking for an All-Mountain freestyle/pow board." —Jon

Pros

  • Floats in powder and has excellent turn initiation on hard-pack
  • Freestyle versatility in a freeride outline
  • The most technically advanced and well rounded board PUBLIC makes

Cons

  • Directional shape might not be ideal for riders who prefer a true twin
  • Might be too stiff for lighter or less aggressive riders

Jon Martin

Jon is a student of snowboard products and manages the highly acclaimed Circle Snowboard Shop in Whistler, BC. He's been riding for 20 years and is a staple in the Blackcomb terrain park and first in line on a powder day. 

Ideal board length: 158-160 cm

Boot size: 10

Weight: 185 lbs

Disclaimer

This snowboard review was independently written, and the views are that of the author.

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