Burton Supermodel Snowboard: Vintage Freeride Legend
Can a snowboard truly be considered legendary, and if so, what qualities elevate it to such a status? The Burton Supermodel 63, a name whispered with reverence among snowboarding aficionados, embodies this very concept, representing a pinnacle of design, performance, and enduring legacy.
The world of snowboarding is filled with countless boards, each vying for a place in the spotlight. But the Burton Supermodel has consistently, and perhaps paradoxically, preferred the shadows, letting its performance do the talking. While its sibling, the Burton Custom, has often enjoyed the more public accolades, the Supermodel has quietly cultivated a devoted following, comprised of riders who understand its unique capabilities. This article delves into the history, the technology, and the enduring appeal of this iconic freeride board, exploring why it remains a sought-after piece of snowboarding history.
The genesis of the Supermodel can be traced back to a time when snowboarding was still solidifying its identity. The 1990s saw a surge in innovation and a blurring of the lines between different riding styles. The Supermodel, with its distinctive design and unwavering focus on performance, emerged as a champion of freeriding a style that prioritizes navigating natural terrain and exploring the entire mountain. This commitment to versatility, combined with cutting-edge technology, propelled the Supermodel to the forefront of the industry.
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At its core, the Supermodel was built for the backcountry, for those seeking untouched powder and challenging descents. Its design, often featuring a longer length and a directional shape, was optimized for float in deep snow and stability at high speeds. The "cap construction," a pioneering feature for its time, set it apart. Instead of a standard sidewall, a fiberglass wrap enveloped the wooden core, enhancing the board's responsiveness and durability. Burton claimed this design to be a true cap, as the fiberglass wrapped around the perimeter where other boards would stop at the tip and tail.
The Supermodel's history is intertwined with the names of snowboarding legends. Brian Iguchi, Johan Oloffson, and the late, great Craig Kelly these are just a few of the riders who were instrumental in the development and refinement of the board. Their input, their feedback, and their dedication to pushing the boundaries of the sport helped shape the Supermodel into the legend it is today.
The Supermodel wasn't just a board; it was a statement. It represented a philosophy of snowboarding, one that valued exploration, freedom, and a connection to the mountain. This commitment to a purist approach resonated with riders who were looking for something beyond the ordinary, a board that could handle anything and everything. The board's asymmetrical twin shape symmetry, coupled with the Burton 3D binding mount pattern, further enhanced its versatility, making it suitable for a range of riding styles.
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Over the years, the Supermodel has undergone numerous iterations, with each new model incorporating the latest advancements in materials and construction. From the original Supermodel 63 to the Supermodel X and the more recent mid-wide versions, the board has continually evolved, adapting to the changing landscape of snowboarding while retaining its core identity. The Supermodel X, in particular, is often cited as the ultimate freeride masterpiece, a testament to Burton's commitment to innovation.
The board's feel rating of 5, placing it in the middle of the flex spectrum, made it accessible to a wide range of riders. It offered a balance of responsiveness and forgiveness, making it both challenging and fun to ride. The Supermodel was designed to make powder fun while still making it ok to ride when the fresh isnt on the ground. A slight step down from the Supermodel X but still has the same principles.
The enduring appeal of the Supermodel extends beyond its performance. It is a board that has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Each Supermodel board is a testament to Burton's dedication to quality and design. The use of premium materials and the meticulous attention to detail contribute to the board's legendary reputation and enduring value.
The "vintage" Supermodels, particularly the 1999 models, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. These boards represent a tangible link to the past, a reminder of snowboarding's evolution and the pioneers who shaped the sport. The fact that these boards are still in demand speaks to their enduring appeal and the quality of their construction.
The Supermodel's story is an essential part of snowboarding history. It is a story of innovation, dedication, and a deep love for the mountain. Its about a board that helped define freeriding. Whether you are a seasoned rider, a collector, or simply a fan of snowboarding history, the Burton Supermodel 63, and its various iterations, deserves a place of respect and consideration.
The Supermodel, beyond its technical specifications and historical significance, represents a feeling. It embodies the spirit of exploration, the thrill of carving through fresh powder, and the simple joy of riding down a mountainside. This snowboard begs for early morning blower and keeps charging long after the junk sends the kooks in for wings and wine coolers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Board Name | Burton Supermodel 63 |
| Year(s) Produced | 1999, early 2000s, 2008, 2009/2010, 2011 (and various iterations) |
| Primary Use | Freeriding, powder, all-mountain |
| Construction | Cap Construction (fiberglass wrap over a wood core), various core materials (Superfly II), Burton 3D pattern binding mount (discontinued) |
| Shape | Asymmetrical Twin, Directional |
| Flex Rating (typical) | 5 (mid-flex, varies slightly by model) |
| Notable Features | Versatility, float in powder, stability, performance-driven design, connection to snowboarding legends |
| Designers/Collaborators | Brian Iguchi, Johan Oloffson, Craig Kelly (influence) |
| Target Rider | Experienced riders, freeriders, those seeking performance in varied conditions, both male and female adults |
| Vintage Value | High, particularly for well-preserved models |
| Key Models | Supermodel 63, Supermodel X, Supermodel Mid Wide |
| Colors | Multicolor with a captivating vintage theme, Red (1999) |
| Length | 163cm, 160cm, 172cm, 174cm (varied) |
To learn more about Burton Snowboards and their current product line, including the Supermodel's influences, you can visit their official website. Burton Snowboards Official Website
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