After winning best snowboard by the Snow Magazine's test team last season, we were eager to see if it still had that magic - it has!
It is an Asymmetrical twin stick with rocker in the middle and heaps of camber underfoot. Asymmetrical boards make sense because our bodies are asymmetrical, meaning the mechanics of turning on a toe or heel edge are completely different. Gnu seem to get this more than most.
The Space Case is an all mountain board that leans heavily towards freestyle and is as happy as a puppy in snow when jibbing around, with butters and presses effortless.
This works because of the rocker in the middle, but the big zone of camber underfoot gives a powerful pop. The Gnu also has a nice meaty solid landing feel on kickers which doesn't wash out on sketchy landings.
It is certainly more than just a jib stick and really let's fly on the groomers. If pushed, it can really motor at speed and handles flats well. It also handles crud and spring mashed potatoes with ease, giving a confident stable feel underfoot. I also found the edges lock and load when carving.
Because it is not catchy in any way, it allows for a mellow, end of the afternoon ride, without fear of catching an edge.
The Space Case also handles itself well in the deep stuff with a mellow floaty feel that makes for an enjoyable ride in powder.
All in all the Space Case is a board that just keeps on giving. For certain it is not a mountain charger, but gives a solid and stable performance on the slopes, with a magically playful experience when jibbing or in the park.
