GNU UPGRADE SNOWBOARD – REVIEW AND PRODUCT GUIDE
Overview
The GNU Upgrade is a versatile, all-mountain freestyle board designed for riders who want a smooth blend of playful park performance and reliable all-mountain capability. Featuring GNU’s signature asymmetrical twin shape and the C2 hybrid camber profile, this board offers a responsive, balanced ride that excels in everything from freestyle laps to carving groomers.
Ideal for intermediate to advanced riders, the Upgrade strikes the perfect balance between pop, control, and forgiveness for progression and fun across the whole mountain.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Shape | Asymmetrical True Twin |
| Profile | C2 Hybrid Camber – rocker between feet, camber underfoot |
| Flex | Medium (5–6/10) |
| Terrain | All-Mountain, Freestyle |
| Rider Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Core | G3 Core (Aspen + Paulownia + Balsa) – lightweight and strong |
| Base | Sintered Knife Cut – fast and durable |
| Edges | Magne-Traction® – serrated edges for superior grip |
| Construction | Bi-Ax/Triax Glass with Carbon Power Bands for added pop and stability |
| Sizes Available | 151, 154, 157, 160, 163W |
| Made In | USA – Mervin MFG, Washington |
C2 Hybrid Camber + Asymmetrical Shape
The C2 profile blends rocker between the feet for float and forgiveness, with camber underfoot for pop and edge control. The asymmetrical shape enhances heel-side turns, providing improved edge hold and smoother carving.
This results in:
- Enhanced control on all edges
- Easy turn initiation and release
- A playful yet precise feel
On-Snow Performance
Freestyle & Park
- Medium flex and true twin shape allow for solid pop and easy presses
- Rocker zones offer catch-free presses and smooth buttering
- Carbon Power Bands add snap for ollies and jumps
All-Mountain
- Handles groomers, side hits, and moderate powder with confidence
- Magne-Traction edges provide grip on hardpack and icy terrain
- Responsive at speed, stable on varied terrain
Icy & Variable Conditions
- Serrated edges grip icy slopes with more control and confidence
Eco-Friendly Construction
Manufactured sustainably in Mervin MFG’s water-powered, zero-waste factory:
- Eco-friendly printing and materials
- Responsibly sourced wood core
- Durable, recyclable construction
Ideal Rider
Best suited for:
- Intermediate to advanced riders looking for a versatile all-mountain freestyle board
- Riders who want one board that can perform well in park and on groomers
- Those who value edge grip and control for varied snow conditions
Not ideal for:
- Absolute beginners (requires some skill to get the most out of it)
- Powder specialists or big-mountain freeriders
Tech Specs (Example: 157 cm)
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Effective Edge | 120 cm |
| Waist Width | 25.5 cm |
| Sidecut Radius | 8.0 m |
| Stance Range | 19″–24.5″ |
| Recommended Weight | 140–210+ lbs |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Balanced all-mountain freestyle performance
- Responsive and stable with excellent edge hold
- Catch-free rocker zones for playfulness
- Eco-conscious construction
❌ Cons:
- Not soft enough for beginner buttering or jibbing
- Less specialized for deep powder days
Comparable Alternatives
1. Lib Tech Travis Rice Pro – Versatile all-mountain board with hybrid camber and edge tech.
2. Capita Defenders of Awesome – Freestyle all-mountain board known for pop and durability.
3. Rome Agent – Responsive twin with balanced flex for park and all-mountain riding.
Final Verdict
The GNU Upgrade is a reliable, versatile all-mountain freestyle board that suits riders who want one deck to do it all — from park laps to carving groomers. Its blend of hybrid camber, asymmetrical shape, and Magne-Traction edges delivers a playful yet precise ride, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced riders seeking performance, progression, and eco-conscious quality in one package.
If you want a board that can adapt to varied terrain while keeping freestyle fun at its core, the Upgrade is a solid choice.
Links
More info here – https://www.gnu.com/upgrade