How to Watch the Ultimate Fighting Championship

For even the most diehard stick and ball sports fan, the names Ronda Rousey and Conor McGreggor must ring a bell. To many, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) seems like a circus act: grown men and women pummeling each other for an oversized belt buckle.

But you’re not shallow; you know there must be more depth to the fastest growing sport on earth. Why else would it have entered the modern zeitgeist so deeply? So here you are, you’ve decided to take the plunge and prepare yourself for your first UFC fight, watching it that is.

Look no further than this quick guide to prepare yourself for a night at the fights. We’ve summed the essential intel up, from the unusual terminology to the weight classes, rankings, and beyond. All you’ll need is a few extra bucks for a UFC subscription, and you’ll be ready to throw down.

Ring the bell; it’s time to get it on!

UFC vs. MMA – United but Different

First and foremost, know that the UFC is a promotional body and that it is not a sport in and of itself. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is the sport of choice for the UFC, so when you and your buddies sit down to take in the hostilities, keep this fact top of mind!

MMA, as the name would imply, is a mixed modality combat scenario. Competing athletes combine boxing, karate, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and judo to form their cohort of combat skills.

UFC Vernacular

Let’s first dig into the match lingo, so you know how these things play out.

A “bout” is another name for a match. When reviewing the card or lineup of fights about to take place, each pairing constitutes a bout.

The conclusion of the bout itself will result from either a knockout (pretty self-explanatory), a submission (losing fighter quits with a tap), or a decision (an instance in which the judges must call who knocked whom around the most).

Bonus points if you’re able to work a few of these fighting terms into the evening:

A “clinch” is a situation where both fighters remain standing, but they’ve wrapped themselves like warring snakes.

A “takedown”, which typically proceeds the clinch, is, effectively, one fighter forcing the other to the ground.

From there, the fight usually progresses into more jiu-jitsu specific positions and, ultimately, its conclusion.

You remember the three ways a match ends, right? Say it with us: knockout, submission, or decision.

UFC Rules

Though it may appear that there are no rules in this sport, a list has been devised and is a mortal sin to break in the octagon.

The groin is off-limits, and intentional kicks or punches to the “no no zone” will quickly get you thrown out of the ring. Knees to the head or strikes back of the head or spine are verboten.

Under no circumstances should a fighter fishhook his or her opponent, bite them in any way, or pull their hair. Leave that for the schoolyard. The digits of the hands and feet must remain unmanipulated, no matter how much the fighter is a “toe guy.”

Lastly, though the ring encircles these gladiators, they can’t utilize its fencing for an advantage, meaning no grabbing it to create leverage. And under no circumstances should throwing an opponent out of the ring be considered; that’s the province of professional wrestling.

Other than that, everything goes.

UFC Weight Classes

Weight classes in the UFC are a highly contentious topic, mostly because of what the athletes must do to achieve that all-important weigh-in the day before a fight. Often a fighter will train in a “camp” for multiple weeks leading into a fight, training for a better part of the day and hydrating and eating as much as necessary to maintain that kind of workload.

Many athletes approach dropping weight for their date with the scale in a seemingly dangerous way, dehydration. Though this isn’t always necessary, a dangerous “cut” happens with almost all cards these days.

The way the divisions are split up in UFC is very different than boxing, so don’t bring that knowledge to the octagon. You won’t impress anyone.

Flyweight opens the categories with a weight limit of 125 pounds, then Bantamweight (135 lb.), Featherweight (145 lb.), and then Lightweight (155 lb.), which is the last of the 10 pound jumps in classes. Bumping up 15 more points is the Welterweight category with a 170-pound limit, Middleweight (185 lb.) follows, then we get into the big boys. Light heavyweight, which is one of the more competitive categories in the UFC, caps out at 205.

Finally, the big boys. The Heavyweight class features athletes weighing up to 265 pounds, and they look every bit of it. If you want to see two absolute animals go at it, track down the Lesner versus Carwin fight from UFC 116. You’ll be surprised at the athleticism of these absolute units.

Where to Watch the UFC

A good place to start for the fair-weather fan is to peruse the huge volume of fights available on YouTube. An easy search term to get you started would be “UFC Free Fight.” Dig in and see if this scratches an itch for you. If so, consider buying UFC’s “Fight Pass,” which you can utilize either on the web or through an app on Apple TV and many other popular streaming applications.

Good luck and be prepared; if you’re not careful, after a few months, you might find yourself a newly minted jiu-jitsu practitioner and starting to show your co-workers what a rear-naked choke looks like. Sorry HR!

If you’ve decided to take the plunge and prepare yourself for your first UFC fight, we got you covered. Check out our tips on how to watch the UFC.

We’ve written it here before — you’re a lucky person if you’ve got enough room in your house for the exercise equipment you need to sculpt a rocking bod. And we don’t know if you’ve tried to buy free weights or a squat rack lately, but iron is hard to find these days. In the early days of the Covid-19 shutdowns, dumbells flew off the shelf like nothing else shy of toilet paper and cleaning products — and the few things you can find on Craigslist are selling for many times their regular market value. JAXJOX Interactive Studio is a compact home gym solution for both problems — space and availability — with its innovative system pairing adjustable kettlebells and dumbells with an interactive touchscreen, real-time data tracking, and a subscription-based series of programs and classes.  It doesn’t have a treadmill, but hey — cardio isn’t everything!

The Weights

We love the idea of adjustable weights because you get all of the benefits of swinging free weights around, but none of the downsides — namely, that a complete weight set takes up so much darn space! Adjusting the weights on the JAXJOX Interactive Studio is as easy as pressing a few buttons. You’ve got access to up to 100 lbs of dumbbell weight and kettlebell weight ranging from 12 to 42 lbs.

On top of that, the dumbbells and kettlebells are smart-weights — connected to the rest of the Interactive Studio and an app on your phone via a system called DumbellConnect and KettlebellConnect. The upshot is that while you are working out, the JAXJOX Interactive Studio keeps track of all sorts of interesting workout metrics. Another advantage to smart weights — you can take your workout out into the yard or garage if that suits your fancy. As long as you have the app on your phone, your workouts (and associated metrics) will be saved.

The JAXJOX Interactive Studio also comes with a smart push-up bar and a foam roller. That’s a pretty well-rounded home gym experience in such a compact package.

The Screen

A crisp 43-inch 4k display can tilt 15 degrees towards the floor so you can see it as you crunch your abs into oblivion. The display rotates horizontally and vertically as well. The screen gives you access to all those metrics we just talked about, including power, calories burned, the current weight you are lifting, total weight lifted, and average heart rate.

The screen also lets you access the full range of JAXJOX classes and programs for $39/month. The subscription is required for the first year after purchasing the Interactive Studio, but we think you’ll find it worthwhile. Everybody needs a little motivational help sometimes, and that $39 covers six other people in your house as well. Classes are live and on-demand and include live coaching and workout suggestions.

As a bonus, the JAXJOX Interactive Studio is Bluetooth enabled. So go ahead and sync your Apple Music or Spotify playlists, and toss some weight around your compact home gym as the surround soundbar blasts out pump-up music.

Fitness IQ

Tracking progress over time is a key component of any successful workout plan. But how do you measure progress? Weight? BMI? Heartrate? Power output? How about all of those and more? JAXJOX compact home gym comes to the rescue by combining several handfuls of critical metrics into one number — your Fitness IQ. Show up and sweat regularly and watch your Fitness IQ climb, even as your waistline shrinks.

Buy. Sweat. Don’t Regret.

The JAXJOX Interactive Studio is now available for pre-order and will be delivered anywhere in the contiguous states. Units will begin shipping sometime in late 2020. You can reserve your compact home gym for a $250 deposit, and the whole unit will run you $2,199. The good news is that 36-month financing is available for qualifying customers. Burpee your way over to the JAXJOX website and see it for yourself.

Whether you are trying to compensate for extra seasonal calories or just want to revamp your fitness routine, there is something to be said for old-school lifting motions.

Farmer’s walk handles are a great way to engage large muscle groups. These are steel bars that allow you to lift, carry, and walk around with massive weights on each side, the way farmers and construction workers have been for centuries. Think of the strength used to carry massive suitcases with no wheels, but with added symmetry for balance and posture.

These walk handles provide a great way to return to the basic movements that most impact the body. When used properly, they will engage all major muscles in your shoulders, core, back, and legs. They will also strengthen your grip and help you stand taller and prouder. Farmer’s walk handles will quickly develop your overall silhouette, giving you that “big and strong” profile that would take years with fancier Nautilus machines.

Their relative low-tech appeal also translates into very affordable prices. If you look around, you can get top-notch quality at a fraction of what a “home gym” usually costs. Here are the best farmer’s walk handles.

The Best Farmer’s Walk Handles

TDS 5-Inch Farmer’s Walk, Chrome Plated

These sleek bars differ a bit from the standard design that one expects from farmer’s walk handles but offer increased balance and safety in exchange. The straight pipes on each side can still be filled with different weights but will protect you from any clips or protrusions from becoming stuck on your surroundings or even your clothes, which could result in a potentially abrupt end for your new workout plan.

This model offers up to 36 inches in length on each bar, with a 12-inch Olympic sleeve added on each end. The handles are also adjustable and can be raised up to 6 inches off the pipe. They are sold as a pair, naturally, and provide 80 pounds of their own weight. In addition, they can be loaded with up to 1,000 pounds (nearly 500 per side).

For some great home gym additions, check out our guide to the best rowing machines.

Titan Mini Farmer’s Walk Handles

For those of us who are trying to make the most out of limited space – especially when life and long commutes make home gyms a necessity – we need to think about the small and portable. The Titan Mini Farmer’s Walk provides such an option without skimping on materials or comfort.

This minimalist tool comes in a pair, with retractable poles that can be extended up to 10 inches each. The diameter meets the standard Olympic plate specifications, which will let you adapt your existing equipment quickly. By themselves, they weigh 18 pounds, but these bars can carry up to 45 pounds per side. This makes them a great option for those who are just getting started in the world of weightlifting.

For proper footwear, don’t forget to invest in some of these cool weightlifting shoes from our list.

Extreme Monkey 4202

The Xtreme Monkey 4202 model was created for rack veterans who are seeking to adapt quickly to a new activity or exercise. This is why they were made from the same materials and steel grade as standard gym power racks and squat cages.

The main length of the pole has also is designed to be switched with normal dumbbells easily without sacrificing balance or posture. A quick flip will just take you from pushing to dragging. The handles can also be adjusted and exchanged quickly, which will allow you to implement quick variations to your workout and engage different muscle groups.

This model’s versatility is further enhanced by its relatively light construction. Each handle weighs just 22 pounds when unloaded, which will allow you to add or subtract plates as needed for more accurate progress tracking.

Be sure to wear a proper weightlifting belt while exercising.

Valor Fitness 60-Inch Handles

Strong, rugged, simple – these are three adjectives that can easily describe powerlifters and strong man competitors, so it makes sense for Valor Fitness to instill the same qualities in their farmer’s walk handles. This set of 60-inch farmer’s walk handles offer few special features. Instead, they focus on offering the simplest way to achieving a powerful workout while still standing firmly in “reasonable price” territory.

Each bar measures 12 inches in length and can be loaded with up to 300 pounds, for a total of 600 (not counting the 24.5 pounds of the handle set itself). They are made from heavy-duty steel, but the handles are carefully textured to ensure a comfortable grip that will nonetheless demand extra effort from your hand muscles (which we so easily forget about!). Four spring clips, a bumper, and an Olympic plate are included.

For more amazing exercise equipment, check out our guide to the top kettlebells.

Ader Sporting Goods Black Handles

Ader is not merely a decent supplier of commercial-quality gym equipment; it is also a brand that has built a well-deserved reputation by relying on actual fitness enthusiasts and athletes to improve their designs. This attention to design is noticeable even when talking about something as straightforward as a set of farmer’s walk handles.

The construction-grade steel used for these handles weights a total of 42 pounds (for the entire set), but it also allows you to load them with up to 800 pounds of weight (400 per side). Each handle measures 12 inches and is equipped with Olympic sleeves. The handles have a total diameter of 30 mm, which will let you grip them securely and fits most hand sizes. For added safety, Ader has reinforced the collars with chrome.

Our guide to the best smith machines features more quality exercise gear. Check them out.

Titan HD Upright Farmer Walkers

It only takes one accident for many powerlifters to develop and unavoidable distrust of collars and flimsy clips. This should not be the sole reason to stay away from exercising with farmer’s walk handles, especially if you can safely turn those handles into a set of foolproof racks.

The Titan HD Upright Walker manages to accomplish just that. This one-piece set is built from heavy-duty steel tubing and includes four points where standard Olympic plates can be evenly piled up and adjusted to your current goals. The rack itself weighs 121 pounds and can be loaded with up to 500 pounds, which places this tool in the “expert lifter” category.

It is also 34 inches long and 21 inches wide, as it needs to allow its user to stand inside. This bulk can make it hard to conceal or store away in a small house. To compensate, you will get the chance to play around with asymmetrical loads, which can yield some surprising benefits on your overall musculature.

Take a moment to also check out our selection of the best curved treadmills and pick your favorite.

Spud Traveling Farmer’s Walk handles

Weightlifting may be powerful and efficient, but it is rarely portable. Most weightlifting equipment won’t adapt well for frequent travelers and backpackers, as most farmer’s walk handles will not fit in the standard luggage limits set by airlines, even if you have access to plates and dumbbells at your destination hotel.

This set of carrying straps can offer a good alternative. Rather than playing around with foldable bars (with all the risk that entails), this set of elastic carry straps can be rolled up and placed in any carry on or gym bag. Then, it will take you barely 3 minutes to set it up and add any available plates you can get your hands on. This strap can withstand a total of 300 pounds – not enough to prep for a competition, maybe, but a great way to prevent loss of muscle while on vacation.

For full-body workout at home, be sure to invest in some of these top assault bikes from our list.

CFF Pro HD

If you can afford to invest in your equipment and body, then you will be able to reap the benefits of this high-end set of farmer’s walk handles. The CFF Pro HD offers superb balance and durability, combined with an elegant look that one does not usually find even when browsing the equipment at a high-end sports club.

Made from a proprietary steel blend and coated in a grippy black powder coating, these bars measure 60 inches each and offer 20 inches per side of loading space. They can handle up to 600 pounds each (for a whopping total of 1,200 pounds). They weigh 48 pounds each, so you can get a decent workout before you even start adding weights.

Adhering to a weight-lifting regime is almost a full-time occupation – or at least, it seems to be if you are going to focus solely on gym workouts. For most of us, the amount of time invested in commuting to the gym, waiting for the ideal machine to be available, and finding a good locker will eventually get in the way of the time actually spent working out.

So, what should we do on those days where an at-home session is the only option? The first thing should be to ensure our home workouts are as flexible as possible, and these days, this means investing in a good set of kettlebells. Unlike bar sets and mini-gyms, kettlebells provide a near unlimited amount of variations without overtaking half your living room. Their particular shape makes them ideal for beginners and seasoned warriors alike; they can be used to add extra stability to your bodyweight moves, but they can also increase their effort cost exponentially.

Solid and durable, kettlebells also require minimum maintenance and will last a lifetime. Despite its iconic design, there is still a lot of nuance to each kettlebell model; small details such as handle thickness, balance, and texture provide enormously different experiences.

The Best Kettleball

Rep Fitness Kettlebells

The Fitness Rep Kettlebells stay true to their name: these are comfortable objects meant to be used for athletic conditioning and cross-training. As such, they have been subtly improved to ensure they remain comfortable during daily use, and even during longs sets of 12 reps of more.

These kettlebells are cast from a single piece of metal, which prevents any awkward welded angles or structural weaknesses. In addition, the SmoothGrip coating diminishes friction without damaging your hands, so you won’t need to use them with gloves or chalk. It also makes them look sleek and new for longer, as it won’t chip away after a few bangs.

Extra points ought to be awarded for precision and attention to detail; each kettlebell is labeled with its weight in both pounds and kilos, in addition to color-coded handles.

You may also be interested in some of these farmer’s walk handles from our list. Check them out.

Metrixx Elite Precision E-Coat Kettlebell

Usually, the reason behind a higher price tag lies in the materials. Provided you are not dealing with a huge, global brand, the chances are that most of what you pay for is spent on this segment. The Metrixx Elite Precision Kettlebells show what a difference top-tier manufacturer can make. Each kettlebell is made from virgin cast iron in single mold casts, making them some of the most reliable and accurate kettlebells available. In addition to near-perfect symmetry and unparalleled balance, these kettlebells are coated with e-coat, the standard military choice from the ergonomic coating. This is smoother than standard powder coats, but it won’t slip or cause accidents even after you start sweating.

Finally, these kettlebells also include a discreet design innovation; the silhouette of their handles is slightly different from that of other models. This proprietary shape prevents the weight from sitting on your wrists and ensures you put the right muscles to work.

Cap Barbell Enamel Coated Cast Iron Kettlebell

On the other end of the price range, these kettlebells by CAP Barbell provide a surprising amount of reliability and quality, while still remaining very budget-friendly. They have managed to stay away from seam casting or welding, but have kept their details simple; a coat of durable black paint that won’t chip will provide the only barrier between your hands and the cold metal.

Nevertheless, these kettlebells are durable and well-balanced. The bottoms have been kept extra flat to ensure better stability when rested on the ground, which is a definite plus if you need to store them at home safely. This makes some of the larger models a bit wider than usual, but thanks to their neat handles, this won’t throw off your grip.

For more quality equipment for amazing results, check out our selection of the best smith machines.

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells

Sitting comfortably in the crossroads between quality and price are these fine iron weights. The Kettlebell Kings have built their entire company around the versatility of kettlebells and provide a wide range of specialized accessories, as well as special models meant for physical therapy, army conditioning, or basic fitness training. Their powder coat model, however, stands out due to its versatility and quality.

Not only are they made from a single piece of iron; they have also ensured to engrave their logo and sizing information, rather than glue it in or paint it. This ensures extra durability and provides them with a very polished look. The kettlebells are coated in a proprietary powder coat that improves grip, although it is still easy to clean if exposed to chalk or dust. Finally, each size is also color-coded.

Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell

Those who are just starting out in the weightlifting scene are often unprepared about the costs to a home gym. After all, even a cheap pair of kettlebells can quickly become obsolete if you are still making rapid gains and frequent increments. Purchasing an entire set at once may be prohibitive, and for apartment dwellers, near-impossible to store. This is why the Versa-Bells deserve special mention. They offer a great opportunity to stick to the same pair of weights across a variety of resistances and effectively provide a blend of a kettlebell with the standard weight lifting plates.

Each kettlebell is made from a 16-pound iron casing, which hides the space for a heart of steel. The latter can be taken out and replaced easily, allowing you to play around with the number of plates and therefore altering the weight. This adds extra versatility to an already flexible tool; you will be able to switch from loaded pushups to a HIIT routine without having to rent extra storage.

Our guide to the top curved treadmills offers more excellent pieces of workout equipment.

Bionic Body Soft Kettlebell with Handles

The Bionic Body Kettlebells were designed for beginner fitness aficionados and those recovering from a major injury. This is why they offer a relatively small weight range but have also been equipped with a series of features meant to maximize comfort and increase their safety rating. By being covered in soft materials, they will prevent damage to you or your floors should you accidentally drop them.

The large handle is still made from finely-coated metal; however, it is also wide to accommodate both hands easily and provide an offset center of gravity that will help you improve your balance even further. They are also slightly padded at the bottom, which helps them stand up still and helps you stay in control during Turkish get-ups.

Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells

Cast iron kettlebells are widely regarded as the best, most-balanced ones; the single-piece construction tends to resist significantly more flailing than those with welded handles. On the other hand, they are also usually hard and rough on hands – and while we are all in the gym to become stronger, that rarely actually includes building a thicker skin.

At Yes4All, they have chosen to equip their kettlebells with a resilient vinyl casing in order to prevent this. The handles were left uncovered, but are texturized in order to provide you with a good, safe grip. The rest of the bell has been covered in a soft layer that doesn’t mess with the weight or balance; it will just protect your skin and floors. They also feature a nice color scheme and are fully washable.

For full a workout at home, be sure to invest in some of these reliable assault bikes from our list.

Rogue Rubber Coated Kettlebells

Sometimes, strength is easily confused with roughness. Gym equipment often falls into this line of thinking, marketing its products as rugged, resilient, and harsh. This is why it’s hard to find something safe and soft that is still physically demanding – but this is not a combination that Rogue is afraid to make.

They have specialized in once-in-a-lifetime purchases, and consistently provide tough gym equipment for people of all fitness levels. However, they still reserve part of their design team to style and comfort. In this case, they have equipped each one of their kettlebells with a unique skin-soft layer of rubber. Their logo is masterfully engraved on the rubber alongside the designated weight, which also helps protect the bell’s integrity. The handles are ergonomic and texturized to prevent excessive sweating, and the rubber composite in that area is antibacterial.

Tone Fitness Vinyl Coated Kettlebell

Cement kettlebells still hold a dear niche in the fitness industry. This material may not be as efficient to pack on weight as iron or steel, but it does provide superb balance and better shaping options. When it comes to kettlebells, it also offers the added advantage of resisting impact better because at some point, we have all pushed too hard and let our weighs drop harshly.

The Tone Fitness kettlebells add an extra layer of protection to their already remarkably-stable product. The vinyl layering protecting the outer shell is not just bright and colorful; it is also remarkably soft to grasp. It can also withstand quite a bit of wear and tear and will show no indentations or faded sections for years. The exact blend of vinyl used appears to be a bit sweat-inducing, however. This is offset by the slim, wide handle, which favors good ventilation.

Our guide to the best punching bags offers more high-quality workout gear. Check them out.

Perform Better First Place Kettlebell

At first glance, this kettlebell brings everything down to its very basics, with just a small dash of color added for good looks. In reality, this set of kettlebells is actually remarkably balanced and comfortable, although it stays away from flashier features and accessories.

The handles are smooth and cast in one piece, but they have been carefully polished to feel textured. While it lacks the military-grade e-coating provided by the Metrixx Elite model, they are still sweat-resistant and smooth. The lack of vinyl also prevents odor formation.

JAXJOX Kettlebell Connect

Just when it seemed like kettlebells could not really bring anything beyond fancy coatings, and small design tweaks along came smart technology. The Kettlebell Connect is JAXJOX’s take on our recent obsession to track, evaluate, and improve upon our own metrics constantly.

Instead of relying on an entire set of different weights and sizes, this unique kettlebell allows you to add or drop weight as needed and can take you from 12 pounds to 42 pounds in seconds. The kettlebell is equipped with six different AVIS movement sensors, which, combined with its base charger, will provide instant information on the number of reps, speed, and even form for a variety of custom workouts. This will be shown on the base’s translucent LCD display.

To accomplish this, it relies on a cylinder lithium-ion battery that can last up to 14 hours. The complimentary app will allow you to track your workouts from your smartphone, and remind you when it’s time for the next one. It is compatible with the Apple Health Kit, and it can also be paired with other JAXJOX products via Bluetooth.

TRX Gravity Cast

TRX is a cult brand for gyms around the world for a reason. They consistently design elegant-quality equipment that is safe enough to save them thousands of dollars in lawsuits and that tends to last for years with minimal upkeep. In addition, their minimalistic design looks polished without stealing the spotlight from each location’s own branding.

Such a reputation means that it has now penetrated into the home gym territory as well. Thanks to their proprietary gravity cast process, as well as the superb care placed on all textures, these kettlebells are very stable, almost perfectly solid, and provide a great balance to the wearer. They are also meant to last for ages while protecting their users’ skin; the smooth polish around the handle will prevent blisters and bruising while facilitating a tight grip. The final layer of paint has antimicrobial properties, just in case you are sharing your equipment.

One of the best things to do during winter is sledding. Unfortunately, finding the best sled to use is not very easy because of the incredible number of options to choose from.

With safety as the most important feature in your ideal sled, you’ll want to make sure that the one you buy is balanced, durable, and made from high-quality materials. Here are the 12 best sleds for both children and adults.

The Best Sled for Winter Fun

Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Pro XLD Sled

One adult sled that is popular across the market because of its durability, high-quality material, and price is the Hammerhead Pro XLD. Unfortunately, it currently only has one size meant for adults and may not be recommended for youngsters since the sled is a bit heavy at 15 lbs.

It has a sleek design with an orange powder-coated aluminum frame. Also, its front skis are made from polycarbonate, while the rear skis are made from high-density polyethylene. Its leaf spring steering component is made from stainless steel, which makes it resistant to dust and corrosion. The sled also comes with a pair of rubber grips for hand comfort and ergonomic purposes.

Also, the sled has its carry strap so you can bring along a pair of ski boots as added convenience. It has a total dimension of 51 (long) x 22 inches (wide) x 7 (height) inches.

A-DUDU Snow Tube

If you prefer a light, portable, and inexpensive snow sled, then the A-DUDU snow tube sled would be a great choice. While it is an excellent sled for adults, it can also be used by kids. Just like the Hammerhead Pro, this sled is a bestseller because of its impressive portability and affordable price.

Available in colors of blue and black, the A-DUDU is made from polyvinyl chloride with a thick base. This material enables the sled to be highly durable and can withstand wear and tear when being used in the snow. Also, it is made from K80 material, which enables the sled to be resistant against extreme cold temperatures of down to -40 degrees.

Preparing the sled is easy, and you can even use a hairdryer to inflate it. Inflation, as well as deflation, is easy through the large valve installed on the sled. The valve also has a double locking feature to ensure sealed air after inflating.

Guide Gear Snow Racer Sled

Another inexpensive sled that you can use to enjoy your winter is the Snow Racer Sled from Guide Gear. With a market price of less than $100, you get yourself an adult sled that is safe to use, durable, and equipped with many helpful features.

With its impressive durability and safety features, it can be used even by children. The sled comes with metal components, such as tubular steel frame and a plastic steering wheel, which makes the sled highly sturdy and resistant to extreme temperatures, friction, and even corrosion. While the steel construction enables the sled to run smoothly on the snow surface, the steering wheel allows the driver to maneuver comfortably.

The Snow Race Sled also comes with a stylish molded seat, which is placed a bit higher from its frame to provide more comfort. Braking is also easy through the foot brake along with the retractable pull-rope. With the molded seat, the driver doesn’t feel the cold coming from the ground surface in contact with the sled.

For more fun options for winter, check out our selection of the best snowboards.

Flexible Flyer Steel Runner Sled

A bit more expensive, but a good sled for adults is the Flexible Flyer. Conveniently priced at less than $100, this sled is designed for adults but can also be used by little children. It has a large seating space and can accommodate at least 2 passengers. This sled is completely environment-safe and is made from smoothened birch wood. With a total length of 60 inches, the Flexible Flyer Runner Sled is also equipped with powder-coated steel runners to resist corrosion and to withstand a lot of pressure or heavy loads.

he sled also features a steering bar that can be steered by the hand when seating or by the feet when lying down on the seat. It has a total weight of 17 lbs., which makes it much lighter than other wooden sleds and can carry loads of at least 250 lbs. Another aspect to mention about this sled is that it already comes assembled right from the package – no need to build or assemble upon purchase.

Slippery Racer Downhill Derby Kids Steerable Snow Sled

If you want a much cheaper sled that is great for kids and toddlers, then the Slippery Racer sled surely would be a great choice. Priced at only at around $50, this kids’ sled is the most recent version of its sled series and is available in blue variants. The Slippery Racer is designed with a reinforced steering wheel, which enables easy maneuvering and a center track ski to enable quick and effortless turns. Braking is also made easy through the pair of handbrakes available below the steering wheel.

The sled is made from materials that can withstand extreme colds and even corrosion. It comes with a tow rope and only weighs 8 lbs. for portability. It is designed to be not too fast. This sled is durable and is designed to be safe to use for children. It has a big sitting capacity and can accommodate at least 2 children for a total weight of 300 lbs.

Flexible Flyer Metal Disc Snow Sled

If you simply want a disc as your ideal snow sled, then the Metal Disc Snow Sled from Flexible Flyer could just be your best option. This sled allows you to not only slide and glide on the snow but also on the sand. Versatility is pretty much the focus of this sled as it can be used on both sand and snow without risking any damage or even scratches as it is made from high-quality and durable materials. While this sled is great for adults, it is also safe to use for children.

Its main material is Bethlehem steel, which is known for its durability and impressive resistance to cracking and breakage. With its compact design, it is easy to stack other units on top of each other when storing or transporting. Along with the durable metal material, it is also powder-coated to resist corrosion and extremely low temperatures. A built-in rope provides balance, stability, and extra for safety.

Slippery Racer Xtreme Toboggan Snow Sled

Another sled that is designed for two riders is the Slippery Racer Xtreme Toboggan Sled. While it can be used by adults, it can also be used by children, making it ideal for parents who want to ride with their little ones. It is constructed from heavy-duty flex plastic and is designed to be resistant to extreme cold. The sled is aerodynamically designed to attain max speeds.

The plastic material allows the sled to be bent but not break, and it does not create any cracks out of extremely low temperatures. When not being used, the sled can be carried or pulled through the built-in rope. The Slippery Racer Xtreme also comes with 4 ergonomic handles to ensure that the passengers are secured in their seats, and no one falls off along the way. The sled only weighs 3 lbs., which makes it easy to carry around and is designed with dimensions of 48 x 18 x 4 inches for easy storage even in tight corners.

Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Snow Sled

If you want your small one to enjoy some winter sledding, you can put them in the Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Snow Sled. The main feature of this sled is its safety as it is being used by small and sensitive passengers. It is designed with a wide base to ensure that the sled remains balanced and stable on the ground to eliminate toppling.

The sled is made from high-density polyethylene, which is both crack resistant and resistant to extremely cold temperatures. The seat is designed with a high back as a support to the child’s back and to set the child’s body in place when moving. The seat also comes with an adjustable safety strap to hold your child in place whenever riding.

The Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Snow Sled conveniently weighs 1.58 lbs., which makes it very easy even for children to carry or drag.

Terrain Sport Snow Sled

If durability is what you’re looking for your children’s sled, then the Terrain Sport Snow Sled is a great choice to keep in mind. It makes use of high-impact polyethylene, which is resistant to corrosion, extremely low temperatures, and impacts. What users particularly like about this sled is that it is wide enough to accommodate several small riders. While this sled is highly durable, it is also considerably light at only 12 lbs.

The ribbed bottom design provides easy navigation for the sled and maintains your direction on a straight path when going downhills. It comes with a heavy-duty tow rope that you can pull even with a considerable weight loaded on the sled. The durable material enables the sled not only for playing and sledding purposes but also for work and for carrying gear.

Flexible Flyer Roll Up Carpet Snow Sled

Another sled that you can consider from Flexible Flyer is the Roll Up Carpet Snow Sled. This will be an ideal sled for you if you want a portable, easy-to-assemble-and-use, durable, and safe sled not only for yourself but also for your kids. This sled is easy to carry and store with its roll-up design and is made from lightweight polyethylene. The great thing about polyethylene is that while it is light, it is also quite resistant to cracks, corrosion, and damage from extreme cold.

For additional safety on the sled, it is designed with soft round edges along with a pair of punched-out handles where the rider can hold the sled for stability and balance. While these handles can be used by the rider to steer or navigate when sliding, it can also be used to pull the sled when going back to the starting point. With its total weight of 10.9 ounces, it can be carried or dragged even by little kids.

Zipfy Two Tone Freestyle Luge Snow Sled

If you want something unusual, you can check out the Zipfy Two Tone Freestyle Luge Sled. This sled seemingly has a peculiar design compared to the earlier sleds in this list. It is engineered for safe steering, turning, and stability through the lever placed in the middle. While it can be used by adults, it can also be used by toddlers and children. The design also allows riders to make a full stop by simply dropping their foot on the ground. By holding the lever and pushing to the desired direction, the driver can conveniently and quickly make turns.

The sled is made from high-density polyethylene plastic, which ensures durability and, at the same time, impressive resistance to cold, corrosion, and cracks. It is vibrantly colored and equipped with decals to make the sled stand out among all sleds.

Airhead Rocket Plastic Snow Sled

The Airhead Rocker Plastic Snow Sled comes at a low price of less than $20. This single passenger sled is made from high impact polyethylene plastic that withstands extremely cold temperatures, corrosion, and breakage from heavy loads or impacts. The molded handles enable the rider to steer easily toward any direction without getting outbalanced.

The sled is fairly light with only 3.52 ounces for its total weight and with total dimensions of 34 x 20 x 4 inches to make it easy to fit and store even in tight spaces. It can also accommodate two little passengers or no more than 120 lbs.

We’ve compared 49 skis, and only one came out on top of each category. We blasted through bumps, zipped through tight trees, and nuked everything that got in our way. In doing so, we have come to review and pick the best performing Skis for this list.

This buying guide is the most comprehensive list of the top skis for 2020. Review the list below to find a pair of skis that’s right for you.

The Best Skis

The Editor’s Choice: Völkl M5 Mantra

The Völkl M5 Mantra has won the top spot not by being the best but by consistently getting a high rank in almost every category. The 4th-generation may have disappointed some Mantra lovers due to its aggressive and fully rockered profile, but it has made a comeback with the M5. It is beloved by advanced and expert skiers for being the benchmark when it comes to versatility and stability.

In fairness to the K2 Mindbender 99 Ti, this was not an easy choice. Both products offer great versatility, balance, and power, but the camber profile gave the M5 a nice edge. The excellent rockered design, together with its moderate flex, has dramatically improved the maneuverability of the M5. Its supreme precision and exceptional on-trail capability make it the perfect daily driver for me.

Völkl is not new in building great all-mountain skis. Although refreshing, it is not surprising to see Mantra’s 5th generation back on the top. Overall, the M5 Mantra is undoubtedly your best choice if you love zipping through trees, blasting bumps, and nuking powder.

For more must-have products for skiers, read our comprehensive guide to the best ski backpacks.

Best All-Mountain Ski: K2 Mindbender 99Ti

The K2 Mindbender 99Ti is big and agile at the same time. With the right amount of power and stiffness to hold on edge, together with its excellent stability even at speed, this product makes it possible for you to use it on all snow conditions without exerting as much effort.

It has a Y-shaped Titanal embedded into its spine, and along with its excellent camber underfoot, the 99Ti gave me just the right amount of fully-rockered profile. Moreover, this product gives way for subtle early rises, making it great for sharp turns. It’s also quick to adapt because it becomes more stable as I push toward bigger arcs to gain more speed. Its exceptional adaptability to various snow conditions made the K2 99Ti on top of my list for one-quiver skis.

In exchange for a bit more weight, many advanced users will always prefer versatility, power, and stability that will let them zip through trees and blast bumps. These smart compromises made this ski a worthy champ for the All-Mountain category.

Best Value All-Mountain Ski: Dynastar Menace 90

They say that quality is an expensive material in skis, but this is not always true. The Dynastar Menace 90 gives excellent value for intermediate skiers who crave cruising, moguls, and steeps. Even though its design has dimensions that are so focused on-piste, it can still provide enough room for a nice rockered profile. It is also accompanied by the right amount of flex to make it playful and fun to drive.

Rookie skiers who learn fast should skip budget skis and opt for the Dynastar Menace 90. The reason is because of its excellent construction, which makes it a great platform even as you gain more experience and techniques.

Of course, cutting costs will always have its compromises. In this case, the trade-offs don’t matter for beginners and intermediates. Dynastar Menace 90, for example, won’t get too far when driving on edge, and it is not very comfortable on solid snow. Also, the tip flap and chap can be troublesome at top speed. Nonetheless, these are minor issues for beginners.

Overall, Dynastar Menace 90 allows its users to have fun instead of going extreme. For its price, the impressive soft snow sensibility and maneuverability that will enable you to hone your skiing is a great steal.

You may also be interested in these top ski bags from our list. Check them out.

Best East Coast Ski: Dynastar Speedzone 4X4 82 Pro

Dynastar instantly shot back up the top of the premium ski market with the introduction of the 4×4. It showcases a refreshing sleek design and modern look, accompanied by better performance and construction. It packs all the attributes that are vital for Eastern skiers, including the Hybrid Core that can reduce its weight while retaining the lively feel of the board and the 3D Profile that aims to improve energy transmission or better maneuverability.

The 4X4 82 Pro is a nice drive with excellent performance, and it does not require too much energy. You can ski it up and down slopes, and it will move back and forth like a breeze. It is comfortable, dependable, stable, and par for the course. Best of all, it carries an excellent level of float on untracked snow.

If you spend a lot of time skiing on icier and drier landscapes, Speedzone 4X4 82 Pro will give you excellent, dependable performance. Plus, this ski will empower you to take on whatever the mountain throws at you.

Best West Coast Ski: Nordica Enforcer Free 104

The Nordica Enforcer Free 104 is the narrowest Enforcer Free and the playful Enforcer at the same time. It’s a confusing family tree, and it has an undecided lineage; however, these did not stop it from making a name for itself with its great versatility and playful drive.

Nordica has employed unique elements for this ski by combining a wood core with carbon strips, metal layers, and plastic. This feature gave it a significant reduction in its swing weight, resulting in excellent maneuverability and stability.

I was left scratching my head when I first drove the Enforcer Free 104 because it’s so agile for its size, which made tight landscapes feel like a test drive. It can also blast and surf through crud and slush, which puts it on top of this category. Advanced users who want to drive a ski with great authority will surely have fun in driving the Nordica Enforcer Free 104.

For more quality equipment for fun times on the snow, be sure to pick your favorite snowboard from our list.

Best Freeride Ski: Atomic Vantage 97 Ti

Hard-charging skiers who are looking for a platform they can use on almost any snow conditions will find the Atomic Vantage 97 Ti on top of their list. The titanium mesh allows you to have great strength and balance to zip through crud, while the rock-solid platform gives you the confidence to torpedo through trees or blast bumps.

Atomic has installed reinforcements in the vital points of the Vantage 97 Ti, which gives a considerable boost in confidence even at high speed. They also managed to keep it lightweight, which allows me to make quick turns with minimal effort.

There are very few that stand out in this category, and Atomic Vantage 97 Ti won my vote for giving me the confidence and stability that I want when zipping through untracked snow.

Best Freestyle Ski: Rossignol Black Ops 98

The super-secretive Rossignol Black Ops 98 is the top of the line when it comes to stability. It’s a top-secret project that Rossi is not keen on making the geeky stats publicly available. There is very little info about it other than the praises that it got from experts, but it didn’t stop me from comparing it with other skis.

When I got my hands on this top-secret ski, I immediately took it to the Aspen Mountain to see what it can do. Lo and behold. It shot up on top of my freestyle ski category, almost instantly. The maneuverability and stability are excellent, so much so that it moves seamlessly even with minimal effort.

If you love freestyle skiing and prefer platforms with a 98mm waist, then Black Ops is one that you need to get your hands on.

Best Ski for Intermediate Users: Völkl Kendo

This ski is the perfect choice for those with a bit of experience in skiing because it’s versatile, lightweight, and user-friendly. The Kendo was engineered with a rockered profile and varying sidecuts. These features gave it the capability to adapt to different speed levels and varying snow conditions, making it a top choice for intermediate users. It is also built with a Titanal side frame and lightweight tips that make it easier for users with enough experience to maneuver.

There are three different arcs on the Völkl Kendo that matches its fully-rockered profile. These arcs allow great maneuverability and stability even at high speed, making it easy to make huge turns without using too much energy. It also offers a smooth and predictable drive that adapts naturally to different landscapes.

Regardless of your experience level, Kendo will adapt to your drive, and it is an excellent platform that will help you take your skiing prowess to the next level.

Best Ski for Rookie Users: Rossignol Experience 76 CI

Someone who is just starting to learn skiing needs a different build. The ski must be narrower and lightweight to make it easy for you to maneuver it on a groomed hardpack and make turns without using a lot of energy. The Rossignol Experience 76 CI is the perfect equipment to help you progress faster when just starting. The reason is due to its construction, which has all these attributes.

Almost every ski brand has its entry-level ski, but nearly all of them are only toned-down versions of their top-on-the-line skis. Rossignol Experience 76 CI, on the other hand, ticks all the boxes in this category. The Experience 76 is a toned-down version of the Experience 88, but it removed the strong underpinnings to make the 76 narrower and more flexible.

Overall, Experience 76 is beginner-friendly, but it’s still a great ski even as you improve your skills. Unlike other entry-level skis that do not fit a fast learner, this will be a good ski even for intermediate users.

Best Ski for Groomers: Rossignol Experience 88 Ti

Every season, Experience 88 consistently hits my radar for being a top favorite with its groomer performance. This season is a bit different when Rossi gave it an overhaul and engineered it with design elements that put it on top of this category.

The Rossignol Experience 88 Ti hooks up quickly and has an excellent construction on edge. To be specific, it has the right stiffness that makes anyone feel confident with its stability even at top speed. However, with an 88-millimeter waist and very minimal metal used for its design, the Experience 88 Ti may not be optimal for soft snow and power users.

All in all, the Rossignol Experience 88 Ti may not carry a lot of power. Even so, it still manages to hold well through crud with excellent stability, making it the best ski for groomers to use even on a light powder day.

Best Ski for Powder: Prior Northwest 110

Professional athletes are looking for a ski that has the power to nuke powder, dependability on crushing bumps, and the speed to dash through spectators, and the Northwest 110 has all of these capabilities.

110-millimeter skis are great for skiing untracked snow, but if you start hitting soft snow, these skis will always be cumbersome. The Prior Northwest 110 stands out when it comes to this aspect. It has excellent stability at speed and exceptional power when on edge. Plus, it carved so well in hard snow and made it almost unbelievable. It is also built with a waist that is wide enough to keep you afloat even when faced with deep pockets, making it perfect for skiers who only go on-piste with six inches or more.

One of the biggest reasons it got the top spot for this category is that Prior will customize your ski, depending on your preference. Whether you like fiberglass or carbon and add custom graphics, they will do it for you. Customization is something that very few brands will do, and it is a huge plus for me.

Best Ski for Backcountry: K2 Wayback 106

With so much unpredictability and uncertainty in backcountry skiing, a great ski should be able to take on whatever gets in your way.

The K2 Wayback 106 a is a mid-winter ski that is specially engineered for skiing powder. It has a waist of 106-millimeter with a rockered profile, making it easier to stay above the surface and make quick turns with less effort. It dashed through a 22-meter turn radius, blasting wind crust while feeling short and nimble in tight trees. Even in more unpredictable landscapes, it still offers excellent maneuverability, power, and stability.

By using a light wood core, K2 managed to keep its weight at 3.3 lbs, which is perfect for a 179-centimeter platform. Plus, the ski has a unique top sheet that seems like it sheds snow and ice, allowing it to perform well even on the way up. With its capability to adapt to various conditions, the K2 Wayback 106 is undoubtedly an excellent weapon for backcountry skiing.

Best Ski for Carving: Rossignol React R8 Ti

There are only a handful of skis that will help you ski more, and Rossi’s React R8 Ti tops this category for effectively making carving an effortless task. The nice tip and tail rocker, flex, and the added width at the tip make it feel like the ski is doing the turn for me. It releases the carve with power, which makes it seem like it accelerates after each turn.

Rossignol React R8 Ti is not designed to be an all-mountain ski, but it is very predictable and also smooth in lightly tracked up back bowls. On-piste carvers require extra effort, but the React R8 Ti stood out by being the opposite. It was fun, smooth, and effortless to use, so much so that I don’t want to take it off.

Best Ski for Park: Armada ARV 86

A great park ski should do well on the rails and pipe. Also, it should perform nicely in the air. I took it up a notch and found the best product in all of these aspects and still allowed me to trek the mountains with ease. The Armada ARV 86 came out on top of any of this category because it does everything at once. Maybe not the best, but doing all of it and allowing you to blast bumps and beat the groomer on your way back is the reason why it topped my list.

ARV 86 has very thick edges and tough sidewalls that make you feel confident in crushing whatever comes your way. Armada made sure that this ski is very tough, yet it’s light enough for you to maneuver in the air. The camber profile that it uses creates a lot of pop for mid-air maneuvers and just going over everything.

The Armada ARV 86 maybe an average performer in all aspects, but it’s quite a challenge to find another ski that can do everything that it does and be better at every turn. Those reasons made this ski on top of this category.

Snowboarding is one of the most exciting activities you can do this winter season. Imagine the thrill of descending a slope covered with snow while you stand on a board attached to your feet. It’s one way to enjoy the beauty of nature, compete with others, and at the same time, express yourself.

If you want to rip through snow, then you need to get a snowboard first. Snowboards these days come in various types, designs, and materials that it can be confusing to pick one. This article will help you shop for the right snowboard.

While snowboarding has been around for nearly a century, the modern snowboard we know today can be traced to the toy invented by an engineer, Sherman Poppen. He fastened two skis together and attached a rope to one end so that her daughter would be able to control her pace as she glided downhill.

Today, snowboards can be classified into five categories. There’s the all-mountain snowboard that can work on any terrain, the freestyle snowboard that’s best used in parks, and the freeride snowboard that is best for ungroomed snow. You may also pick the powder type, which is ideal for use in deep snow, or the splitboard, which is best used in the backcountry.

Here are the 10 best snowboards.

Best All-Mountain Snowboard: Burton Deep Thinker

Designed and built for advanced to expert riders, the Burton Deep Thinker is an aggressive, responsive, and aesthetically pleasing all-mountain snowboard.

Danny Davis, a world-renowned rider, is the designer of this retro-looking, directionally shaped snowboard. Noted for his smooth and creative style of riding, Davis created this board to transfer more pop in the tail with its slightly longer nose.

Moreover, some of the sections of its core are thinner than the rest for more energy and enhanced control. Varying core thickness also provides more flexibility and strength in strategic areas of the core.

Still, count on it to provide generous float and control. With its 7mm tapered design, riders should have no trouble initiating a turn or making an exit.

Stability is another strong suit of this snowboard. You can be assured of a secure onboard experience with its narrow waist width and stiff flex. And while the nose is long, there is minimal chatter, thanks to the stiff flex of the snowboard.

You’ll get your money’s worth with this all-mountain snowboard. Aside from its reasonable price, it can also be ridden all over the mountain, further justifying its price tag. While there are cheaper options, you can be assured that you’re getting the best all-mountain snowboard in the Burton Deep Thinker.

You may also be interested in our comprehensive guide to the best skis on the market. Don’t miss them.

Best Bang for the Buck All-Mountain Snowboard: Jones Explorer

This product is a forgiving all-mountain type that’s affordable, making it the best bang for the buck all-mountain snowboard today. It’s ideal for beginners and intermediate users, as it is agile and versatile. It is maneuverable in-between bumps, thanks to its ease of use. Moreover, it provides average flotation with its blunted tip and rockered nose.

The Jones Explorer has a beautiful graphic that makes it stand out from the rest. But it’s not all about the looks as this snowboard is built to deliver top-notch performance. It feels agile, energetic, and strong on park laps and backcountry lines.

This snowboard can easily handle both powder and jump lines with its directional rocker profile. On the snow, it feels stable underfoot. The camber in between the feet has something to do with it. As for edge hold, this snowboard is best in hard snow, yet it can handle ice patches, too.

In short, the Jones Explorer is an affordable ride that offers good directional float. It’s arguably the best bang for the buck all-mountain snowboard in the market today.

Best Freestyle Snowboard: Burton Paramount Camber

The Burton Paramount camber is available in three lengths, which are 155, 158, and 162 cm. The board has a slightly bowed middle that straightens out when you put down your weight on it. This profile helps riders make powerful turns.

With the Paramount, intermediate to advanced users should be able to launch off a vertical slope quickly. The familiar twin-tip shape facilitates clean entry while the medium overall flex provides support and stability when stomping landings. It also gives riders versatility in performing all sorts of tricks and a balanced ride most of the time.

Aside from being durable, this snowboard has an FSC-certified Super Fly II core, which combines sturdy and lightweight woods for a great deal of pop. The build also remains lightweight; hence, you won’t feel weighed down when you ride across the slopes. Likewise, it is streamlined to create an excellent edge hold and provide more strength.

This snowboard features a mounting system called the Channel that would let you place your feet in an optimal position on the board. It also enables you to control where your feet would go for optimum comfort and performance.

If you are also a fan of skiing, be sure to invest in these great ski bags from our list.

Best Cheap Freestyle Snowboard: Rome Factory Rocker

When it comes to freestyle snowboard, the Rome Factory Rocker is perhaps the best value for money. Rome is a brand known for its high quality yet affordable freestyle decks, and the Factory Rocker is a prime example.

This freestyle snowboard has a pope core matrix known for its excellent combination of lightness and response. Built from warm and robust wood, it features two zones of light wood species. It also has rebound sidewalls with elastomeric compounds designed to absorb impacts when landing on a rail. So, this snowboard can let you enjoy longer snowboarding sessions.

The base of this snowboard is reliable, fast, and easy to repair. Rome also added bamboo stringers through the core for extra snap and energy. Those bamboo stringers won’t break down as quickly as other composite materials.

Another essential feature of the Rome Factory is the QuickRip Sidecut featuring two off-set sidecuts that lead to one sidecut zone in the nose. There’s also a sidecut zone in between the feet and another in the tail, giving extra contact points along the edge for much better turn initiation.

Rome also deviated from the norm by creating bumps called ‘mid-contact points’ at areas near the bindings. These add edge hold and enhance turning response at high speed while serving at contact points at slow speed.

Best Snowboard for Beginners: Burton Ripcord Snowboard

If you are a beginner who wants to take your snowboarding skills to the next level, consider getting the Burton Ripcord. It is loaded with features that can hasten your progression into a more skilled snowboarder, including a directional shape, channel mounting system, and soft flex. And, it comes from arguably the largest and most respected snowboard brand in the world today.

This snowboard has a 5mm taper directional shape, giving it a nose that is longer than the tail for enhanced pop. Beginner riders like you will benefit from the improved stability and control of this model. It also makes entry and exit easier while giving you enough flotation in deep snow.

It has a flat profile that would give you superior control, enhanced balance, and stability. Its channel mounting system, meanwhile, makes it compatible with major binding models, including that of Burton’s. You’ll have lots of stance options, and consequently, you’ll be able to ride on any terrain comfortably.

The core of this board is engineered with Squeezebox Low, which creates stiffer zones outside of your feet. This feature allows you to transfer more energy to the tip and tail and consequently improve your ride.

Best Powder Snowboard: Jones Storm Chaser

One of the first companies to come out with powder snowboards, Jones also has arguably the best powder snowboard today in the Storm Chaser. Designed by Chris Christenson, a renowned surfboard shaper, it has been in the market for several years now. The latest iteration features a carbon strip for improved long-term flex and extra pop. However, it looks remarkably like the previous models, particularly those released in 2017 and 2018.

The Jones Storm Chaser is lightweight with a medium to medium-stiff flex. It has a wooden core with bamboo stringers in the pocket of the sidecut, delivering power and superior edge response.

This directional powder board is designed for intermediate to advanced riders. It can easily handle power with its power-packed shallow tail.

You can also be assured of a stable ride with its progressive side cut. The core has also been lightened while the nose enhanced with web-fused carbon for reduced chatter and improved dampening.

The Jones Storm Chaser is a champ in the powder. You’ll feel like surfing snow when you ride on it. On snow, it is stable than most continuous rocker boards. It maneuvers well on powder, light, and fluffy snow. Plus, it is surprisingly easy to get in and out of the trees. Its fast base, meanwhile, lets it maintain speed and glide well.

Best Affordable Powder Snowboard: Capita Spring Break Slusher Slasher

The Capita Spring Break Slusher Slasher is not as refined as the Jones Storm Chaser, but if you’re a beginner or on a budget, this little powder/slush board should be a more practical choice.

As the name tells you, this snowboard is designed for springtime. It’s a specialized board that you can ride in slush and powder.

It is made of an FSC-certified Select Core with a wood grain that extends from edge to edge and tip to tail. Moreover, it has no knots or finger joints, resulting in enhanced response and a uniform flex pattern. Its Superdrive EX base, meanwhile, enables the board to resist abrasion and deliver a smooth glide.

The board features a party profile with the camber mid-section having a flat kick nose and mellow tail. This profile allows the board’s nose to rise above slush. Meanwhile, the radial sidecut is of a single radius design and responsible for the board starting a finishing a turn on the same arc.

The Slusher Slasher is perfect in slush with its profile and surface area. It is also a great board to carve with, thanks to its narrow turn line. Surprisingly, it is also pretty tolerable on uneven terrain. Because it is short, it can easily get around bumps.

However, this is not a board that would appeal to riders looking for speed. You can’t also expect it to perform well on jumps. And since it has no tail, this board is not ideal for switching.

Despite those limitations, the Slusher Slasher remains a good pick for riders looking for an affordable powder snowboard.

Best Splitboard: Lib Tech T. Rice Gold Member

With a split board, you can explore the backcountry. This type of snowboard splits into a couple of halves for touring and traveling uphill.

Skins backed with adhesive are attached to the base of the ski, providing you with traction on snow. You can then remove the skins once you have reached the top of the slope and transform it again into a snowboard.

There are many splitboards to choose from, but the Lib Tech T. Rice Gold Member is the prime choice for many advanced and expert riders. You’ll have to spend a fortune on this snowboard, though. Still, you can be assured of a smooth and thrilling ride with this model. This product is an ultra-lightweight, versatile, and durable split board that is worth your money.

This snowboard has a C2 profile that gives a balanced mixture of rocker/camber. The camber underfoot is worth mentioning as it makes flying this board easy. Then there are the seven Magne-Traction contact points that stick out and augment edge control and hold. Think of it as a serrated knife cutting into hard surfaces.

As for the skins of this split board, it can quickly hook up to the notched swallowtail. The core of the board is made of locally-sourced woods, such as Aspen, Birch, Balsa, and Paulownia.

Best Freestyle Snowboard: Never Summer Funslinger

The 2019 version of the Never Summer Funslinger continues the legacy of perhaps the best freestyle snowboard in the world. This product is a snappy board that excels in the park. It can be easily mistaken for a rail board, thanks mainly to its soft flex. And, it performs well on jumps and transitions.

2019 Never Summer Funslinger has an aggressive hybrid camber with the rocker placed between the feet and the camber underfoot located towards the tips. This feature minimizes the pressure over the contact points and makes it difficult to catch edges. But the camber remains stable and responsive just like more traditional models. You will also love the added flexibility and playfulness from the rocker zone placed between the feet.

This snowboard has an asymmetrical twin shape with a designated toe and heel edge, resulting in more power and control in the turns. The board is made of Press Flex Core with two separate flexing points, giving you a better hinge point for presses. The base, meanwhile, is of high-density construction for lasting durability and extreme speed.

Other extra features that make this snowboard a must-buy include the low profile tip and tail for enhanced landing stability and elastomeric underfoot stabilizers that increase stability without affecting speed.

Best Park Snowboard: Salomon Huck Knife Snowboard

The Salomon Huck Knife Snowboard hasn’t seen drastic changes since its 2017 model. Yet, it remains as the best park snowboard, ideal for people who spend most of their time in the park.

This snowboard is designed for intermediate to expert riders, and it is lightweight, fast, durable, and fun to ride. It has a medium flex and a quad camber, providing a decent response, pop, and agility. The camber underfoot leads into rocker zones at contact points for extra pop.

The board has True Twin shape, constructed the same from tip to tail, and assuring you of the same performance in both regular and switch. It has a curved Radial sidecut that gives you a grippy, fun, and agile edge.

The core is full Aspen wood, while the sintered base delivers superior speed. You should be able to go faster for an extended period with this board.

Other extra features of this board worth noting are the specially shaped core profile that gives an extra snap to ollies, and the triaxial fiberglass that enhances stability and durability. It also has carbon inlays for good response underfoot and freestyle edge bevel for freestyle riding.

Previous Picks

Through the 90s, the construction of snowboards remained more or less like ski devices. Generally, boards were made of level blades and regular camber.

A decade later, snowboards started becoming more inspired by surfing equipment. These were originally sold for better riding on powder. Soon, snowboard designs started changing and so did riders’ preferences. A number of riders turned to these newly-designed, minimal-tailed boards for everyday practice.

Fast forward to 2019, and you will find varieties swarming the marketplace. Some think that for snowboard designing, this is the most inspiring-era. But then, who knows what innovation will make a grand entry in the future?

But right now, you can look around, browse through specifications, and choose from a wide range of available designs. The correct option will draw regular benefits on the mountain, performing better on each turn and providing you increased and delightful experience on the snow.

Selecting a snowboard is not an easy job. So many diverse kinds of boards are available that you can face a paralysis of choice! Before picking up a snowboard, it is better to know what your requirements are exactly. You should also consider the type of terrain where you will be using your snowboard.

Here are our recommendations for more of the best snowboards.

Jones Storm Chaser

Ride MTN Pig

Lib Tech T. Rice Orca

GNU Head Space

K2 Broadcast

Burton Custom

Venture Storm

Arbor Bryan Iguchi

Bataleon Carver

Salomon Sick Stick

CAPiTA Kazu Kokubo Pro

Endeavor Live

Bataleon Goliath

ACADEMY PROPAGANDA

Before you make your choice, remember that the most significant component of your snowboard is its core. Normally, the core is built from different types of wood, which alter the character of the ride. Several manufacturing companies also use pieces from separate trees inside of a particular core. For example, you may come across a few Lib Tech boards that carry three distinct varieties of wood. There are also companies that produce cores from foam materials.

Manufacturers carve cores in a special way. Those areas are kept thin where you require increased flex and other areas are created thick. Although snowboards are manufactured using heavy machinery, you will be surprised to know that it also involves a lot of fine craftsmanship.

Home gym equipment, such as treadmills and elliptical machines, vary in size, ease of use, and build quality. Smith machines are no different.

Designed for novice to intermediate fitness enthusiasts, smith machines are versatile workout equipment. It usually consists of a barbell mounted in between vertical guide rails for vertical lifting. These machines combine exercises such as squats, pull-ups, bicep curls, dips, lateral pulls, and calf raises, among others. It presents a superior alternative to free weights lifting, something that a home weight lifter and even professional body lifters will appreciate.

Smith machines can help you build muscle mass and improve your stress. Over the long run, continued use of a smith machine can help you improve your posture, increase dexterity, and improve your stamina.

Here are the best smith machines.

The Best Smith Machine

Marcy Combo Smith Machine

If you’re looking for a decent workout machine with good features and a budget-friendly price, then the Marcy Combo Smith Machine may just be what you need.

This smith machine is designed to last for a long time. Made of top-quality and highly durable 14-gauge steel tubing, this smith machine is as solid as any home gym equipment. It won’t be moved or shaken when you are using it.

It can help you strengthen and tone your thighs, legs, arms, and core with a combination of a pull-up bar, leg developer, and cable crossovers. The utility bench is removable and should let you have a full range of exercises. The bench is also padded so you can stay comfortable during your workouts.

This machine has a weight limit of 400 pounds, so you should be able to use it without worrying about it breaking down.

It is also reasonably priced and comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty.

For more amazing machines for incredible results, check out our selection of the best farmer’s walk handles.

Body-Solid Powerline Smith Machine

This smith machine is recommended for people who have limited space at home. It’s sturdy and easy to assemble, too.

With dimensions of 45 inches long, 80 inches tall, and 76 inches wide, this smith machine should not take up as much space as other home gym equipment. It should take you an hour or so to put it all together.

It has a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. The mainframe is a ladder-type with full-length, 12-gauge square pillars. Fourteen lock-out points enable the machine to deliver a good foundation during heavy routines.

With this smith machine, you can perform exercises such as bench presses, squats, and shoulder shrugs, among others.

It comes with safety features, too, such as the safety spotter catch system. This dual-lock system prevents the bar from pinning the user by turning the pivot sleeve in a 15-degree angle. Huge pop pins, meanwhile, can be easily and quickly adjusted to help you achieve a safe and pre-determined stop.

Be sure to check out these excellent kettlebells from our list and add them to your workout routine.

Yukon Caribou III Smith Machine

This is an entry-level smith machine that is easy to assemble, compact, and reasonably priced.

When fully assembled, it measures 48 x 68 x 85 inches. It is durable and can support users who weigh up to 400 pounds. It is ideal for use of novice and intermediate fitness enthusiasts. It also comes with a chin-up bar that comes in handy in training and strengthening the back.

This smith machine is well-made. For example, the pull-up bar is sturdy and secure. The pull-down bar, meanwhile, is sufficient for lateral work. The bench is well-padded and works well with its slide adjustment on the back. There is also a leg attachment to train that part of the body.

For a full workout at home, be sure to invest in a reliable assault bike from our list.

Marcy Combo Smith Strength Home Gym Machine 5276

Marcy Combo gets another model onto this list with its Home Gym Machine 5276. This all-in-one home gym equipment showcases a variety of exercises to strengthen and tone the legs, arms, thighs, and core. It is not only a smith machine but also a leg developer, cable crossover, and pull-up bar in one.

This is as durable as any home gym equipment in the market today. It is made of 14-gauge square steel tubing, enough for it to support up to 400 pounds of muscle. Putting it together should take you a few hours, so make sure you have enough help if ever you buy this model.

When assembled, the cage dimension is at 65 inches by 72 inches and 84.5 inches. The assembled bench dimension, meanwhile, is 68 x 26 x 45.5 inches. In short, this smith machine should fit your home gym.

There are four storage posts in this machine for organizing your weight plates. The utility bench is removable and can support a wide range of strength exercises. There is a workout bench that is fully padded and adjustable to different positions. The press bar features adjustable bar catches and safety stops.

To strengthen and tone your upper body, this unit comes with cable crossovers and Smith-style press bar. The leg developer, meanwhile, strengthens and tones the lower body muscles. The bottom pulley and leg developer are also ideal for training the legs and thighs particularly in targeting the glutes, quads, and hamstrings.

In short, this is an absolutely amazing machine that may take hours to put together but worth the ordeal once you’re finished.

You may also be interested in these top punching bags from our list, so take a moment to check them out.

Valor Fitness BE-11 Smith Machine

This is a no-frills smith machine that’s tough, durable, and well-designed. It is a good choice if you don’t have enough space at home. It is also intended for users of any experience level, offering workouts of various resistance. Capable of handling up to 1,000 pounds of weights with relative ease, this smith machine offers smooth and reliable performance.

This is a heavy-duty machine made of 12-gauge steel for increased strength and stability. It also ensures that the frame will be able to support the user and the weights. The solid steel bar latch support, linear bearings, and bar rotation can withstand the most challenging and intense lifts.

This is a versatile home gym machine that will let you perform different workouts without a spotter. You can improve your upper body strength performing exercises such as squats and bench press on this machine. You can also perform other workouts such as calf raises, shrugs, rows, and upright rows and achieve a complete body workout.

You can also customize this smith machine by using or adding products under the Valor Fitness brand. The said brand offers more than 400 various fitness products, some of which you can use on this smith machine. For instance, you can add lifting chains and bumper plates on this smith machine to vary your workouts and make your exercises a little more challenging. There are also plate racks for storing plates and adding to the stability of the unit itself.

This smith machine is recommended to users with limited space at home. Its dimensions are 80 x 12 x 10 inches (H x W x L). It is also not as heavy as other home gym equipment, weighing around 50 pounds.

The BE-11 smith machine from Valor Fitness is sturdy, smooth, and versatile for numerous exercises. It is one of the top-rated smith machines in the market today.

If you are a weightlifter, check out these top-rated weightlifting belts and pick the right one for yourself.

Inspire Fitness Ft2 Functional Trainer

This is a high-end smith machine that is quite pricey. But if budget is no concern to you, then you must consider getting the Inspire Fitness Ft2. It has a unique design that eliminates the need for using Olympic weight plates by integrating the Olympic weight stacks and bar. It can be considered a complete weight training machine that also happens to have a smith machine function.

It comes with eight pull points, allowing its users to maximize the versatility and efficiency of the machine. There are a couple of pull points found upfront. This can be adjusted from above your head all the way to your feet. It lets you perform numerous exercises such as incline presses, chest presses, close grip presses, lateral raises, bicep curls, and squats, among others.

Then there are two high pull points placed above your head and designed to support exercises like lateral pulldowns. Four low pull points are also placed at the rear of the machine for exercises such as bicep curls, rowing, and much more.

As for the smith machine function, the Smith bar of this unit will enable you to perform curls, lunges, presses, and other exercises. It can also be adjusted to different positions and let you add variety to your workouts. There is also a multiple grip chin bar for performing pull-ups and grip chin-ups.

Another outstanding feature of this smith machine is the inclusion of weight stacks, meaning there is no need to acquire weight plates. With the weight multiplier option of this smith machine, you can double the weight or resistance of any exercise.

Additionally, multiple accessories are thrown into the package such as triceps rope, EZ curl bar, straight bar, swing handle, a handy belt for multiple uses, and ankle puff. To say that you are getting your money’s worth with this smith machine is an obvious understatement.

For reference, the dimensions of this unit without a bench is 61 inches wide and 58 inches deep. With the bench, the numbers are 61 inches wide and 89 inches deep.

With its numerous features, unique design, and stable base, this functional trainer/smith machine from Inspire Fitness is certainly worth your money.

For some great home gym additions, check out our guide to the best rowing machines.

Bodycraft Jones Freedom Machine

This smith machine from Bodycraft is well-built, versatile, and reasonably priced. It won’t blow you away with its features, but you’ll likely get enough support for your exercises with this smith machine.

Versatility is the most notable characteristic of this smith machine. With its numerous linear bearing tracks, you can enjoy a wide range of movement using this smith machine. Unlike other smith machines that only feature a vertical linear bearing track system, it offers a horizontal linear bearing track that lets you raise the bar and move it forward and backward. This benefits you as you can perform a wide range of exercises, even as you keep your body’s normal range of motion.

Both linear bearing tracks are equipped with heavy-duty springs to prevent the bar and plates from moving far forward or backward or even crashing into the ground. This is a nice safety feature of this smith machine. It also has numerous bar hooks to go along with safety spotters designed to ensure your safety.

The tracks, bearings, and other parts of the machine are made of high-grade materials to ensure the integrity and safety of this unit. The frame is made of metal that can hold up a lot of weight. It can support users who weigh up to 350 pounds.

This is also a fairly compact item that should fit well even in small homes. Listed dimensions are 42 x 55 x 83 inches.

For proper footwear if you are a weightlifter, don’t forget to invest in some of these cool weightlifting shoes from our list.

Body Solid GS348Q Series 7

Compared to some of the units on this list, the Body Solid GS348Q is a fairly simple and basic smith machine. But it has the features to help you stay in shape. It is also compact with assembled dimensions of 83 x 66 x 64 inches (H x L x W).

This unit features lockout points for enhanced safety. Thanks to these lockout points, you can be assured that the bar can be safely supported during your workouts. It can also be stopped at any time, especially when your safety is on the line. With the lockout points, the bar will surely not fall or crash down on your face.

This model also has a free weight rack system featuring lift-off points and 17-inch safeties. This lets you pick the position you’ll want to start and stop your lifting.

It is made of top-quality parts with a solid steel frame, ensuring the stability of the unit. You can have the peace of mind knowing that this unit won’t break, bend, or tip over anytime soon. This smith machine can support users who weigh up to 400 pounds.

The treadmill has been a staple in the indoor commercial gyms and home gyms for quite some time now and aside from getting motorized, the design has stayed fairly consistent. It has only been recently that the world of fitness saw an indoor gym equipment revolution in the form of the curved treadmill.

Running on a curved treadmill has a lot of benefits and uses. Choose from among these 10 best curved treadmills to add to your home gym.

The Best Curved Treadmill

RESOLVE FITNESS Reactive Runner Treadmill

Get a fitter and healthier body at home by getting the RESOLVE FITNESS Reactive Runner Treadmill. If you enjoy running but prefer to stay at home or are forced to stay indoors because of time constraints or bad weather conditions, then get running on this high stimulating and reactive curved treadmill.

The Reactive Runner from RESOLVE FITNESS is built to accommodate most runner sizes and most stride lengths. This is done with the extra-large sized, curved training surface. This curved design minimizes the impact on the joints while running so as to maximize the stimulation of the muscles with optimized workloads targeted toward the muscles for running. This simulates a more natural running experience while at the same time pushing the runner more than any motorized flat treadmill could, resulting in 30% more caloric burn. The Reactive Runner Treadmill can be thought of as the ideal indoor treadmill for indoor training and weight loss because of this.

Its running surface is comprised of 60 individual slats or panels made of aluminium rails that are coated with rubber to produce a safe, non-slip contact surface that can withstand the impact forces of heavy-duty use. Even though this is a non-motorized treadmill, it does utilize a control dial to regulate magnetic resistance of the belt tension.

It also has a 6-inch backlit performance LCD console to track performance metrics such as time, distance, speed, and caloric burn. It also has adjustable stabilization legs that allow for the treadmill to sit level on any surface. It also features running handles to the front and sides of the treadmill for runners to hold on to for maintaining their stability and to allow changes in the angle of the body to modify the intensity of the run.

For more quality equipment like this, check out our guide to the best farmer’s walk handles.

Assault Fitness AirRunner Curved Treadmill

The Assault Fitness AirRunner Curved Treadmill is a revolutionary treadmill that redefines the shape, function, and overall experience of treadmill running. The AirRunner is a motorless machine that provides the runner with full control as it creates an experience that burns more calories through the most natural and efficient means.

The AirRunner is built to be durable enough to withstand 150,000 miles worth of running use. This level means that it is a commercially heavy-duty product for serious runners and fitness enthusiasts. It is also built to be able to bear the full weight of someone with a maximum weight of 350 pounds.

If you are planning on reducing your weight, then running is the best means to slim down. The AirRunner Curved Treadmill from Assault Fitness is the right equipment to get the job done since curved treadmills have been scientifically proven to burn about 30% more calories when compared with motor-run treadmills. Raise your heart faster, target the right muscle groups better and slim down easier by consistently running on the Assault Fitness AirRunner.

The motorless function of the AirRunner means that the motion of the machine all depends on you. It is your moving body that actually moves the belt, which makes your entire running experience more natural than when you’re on a flat motor-run treadmill.

Our guide to the top kettlebells features more reliable fitness gear. Check them out.

TrueForm Runner

Running on a motorized treadmill is like having someone move the ground for you. It just isn’t natural. Sure, you are simulating the running motion but you are essentially getting a boost. This means that when compared to actual outdoors running, motorized treadmill gains are far less. This is where the TrueForm Runner motorless curved treadmill comes in.

The TrueForm Runner incorporates a simple design that changes everything. Because it does not utilize a motor, the belt only moves when you move; this is something that feels much more natural and, in turn, creates more natural muscle development.

By training on the TrueForm runner, you can quickly make improvements to your running posture, your balance, and even your speed and cadence. You will be able to move according to your own limits and improve naturally on your own pace as you push through them, which is unlike what happens with motorized treadmills.

The TrueForm Runner can be used as your standard indoor running equipment for when you are not able to run outside, or it can also be used for when you want to dial in on specific parts of your training. Running on the TrueForm can also be a rewarding experience to achieve your fitness goals since the curved treadmill platform has been shown to better engage the body in activity and energy expenditure, making it the equipment to have if you are into a High Intensity Interval Training program for cross-training or weight loss.

You may also be interested in some of the best-selling smith machines from our list. Check them out.

IN10CT Health Runner Curved Treadmill

The cleverly named curved treadmill is able to produce better results when compared with those achieved from running the same amount of time on a motorized flat treadmill. The IN10CT (read: intensity) Health Runner is going to be the best equipment you ever set foot on indoors.

It is not hooked to the power outlet, so it won’t move with a push of a button. What you need to do is to walk, jog, or run on it. You are the power source that moves this machine. This muscle-power action is what draws Crossfit athletes to IN10CT and other curved treadmills like it.

The IN10CT Health Runner is a great fitness tool for those who are planning on becoming fitter. Everyone from all sorts of running levels, starting from amateurs to ultramarathoners, can and will benefit by training on the IN10CT.

You can use it as a replacement for outdoor running for when the weather may not permit you going outdoors, or you can use it as your main source of fitness activity for either safety or time-saving reasons. No matter how you use it, one thing is for sure: it is super effective.

Scientific studies provide evidence that suggest that a curved treadmill like IN10CT allows the runner to burn more calories when compared with results from motorized flat treadmills. This is one of the reasons why the IN10CT is a top choice for both serious athletes who are into HIIT, Crossfit, or running and those beginner athletes who have just discovered the gym or running and are currently looking to lose a little weight to look and feel better.

For some quality machines that will help you get in shape in the comfort of your home, check out our selection of the top-rated assault bikes.

Technogym SkillMill

Non-motorized running training has just gotten better with the invention of the SkillMill by Technogym. This curved treadmill exploits the simple principle used in all curved treadmills that a motorless treadmill will push the runner to spend more energy to move. It is through this principle that the SkillMill has been built.

It does not have any motors to create the running experience. What it does have is superior ergonomics. When you’re on the SkillMill, you can easily improve your running posture, balance, and cadence because your attention will be directed toward maintaining them.

One of the most unique things about the SkillMill is that it was developed not only as a better treadmill, but it was built to also be like a personal coach that shows you the right posture and positions to achieve better techniques as well as better muscular development on target running muscles. This is achieved with the use of the ergonomic handles that guide the runner’s body in the right training posture as well as acting as stability bars runners can hold onto when training at their highest levels.

Everything is then tracked through the data displayed on the console or even through the MyWellness cloud-based platform. Even if the SkillMill is not motorized, you can still adjust its resistance levels to provide an added challenge that will develop your muscles and running techniques better and faster while at the same time burn more calories to achieve your fitness goals much quicker.

Don’t forget to also check out our comprehensive guide on the most sought-after punching bags.

Xtreme Monkey Fitness Curved Treadmill

It is fairly well-established in the fitness community that consistent running is one of the best methods to achieve weight loss. The human body is built for running, and since man has become a little more urbanized, we brought running indoors with the invention of the treadmill. The ordinary treadmill has met its match in the form of the curved treadmills like the Xtreme Monkey Fitness Curved Treadmill.

The Xtreme Monkey Fitness Curved Treadmill is a game-changer in the indoor gym equipment world. It uses the curved design of the running platform to utilize inertia as well as the runner’s own muscle power to move the belt. This dependence on the runner’s own movement is what makes the Xtreme Monkey Fitness treadmill so much more effective than the traditional motorized flat treadmill when it comes to burning calories.

The Xtreme Monkey Fitness Curved Treadmill has a few design features that make it stand out from the rest. These include shock-dissipating ergonomic rubberized slats as well as oversized bearings for superior durability and noise reduction. It also features lowered handle bars for added safety and comfort for runners and a center console to keep track of your running progress and other fitness metrics, just like a quality fitness tracker.

Woodway Curve

The Woodway Curve is touted by the manufacturer as the ultimate training tool for running. The motorless treadmill with a very simple name is making waves in the world of fitness. It has captured the attention of HIIT enthusiasts, serious runners, as well as Crossfit elite athletes because it is self-powered and offers much better feedback regarding runner’s posture, stride, cadence, and speed.

Everything is moved via the muscle power of the runner, so even by going with this aspect alone, it is already far better than the traditional motor-run treadmills since motorized equipment tends to make the entire training session “easier,” which actually produces unrealistic results by rewarding unnatural techniques.

Because the Curve is not powered by a motor, the runner is not helped in any way. This means that moving on the Curve is pretty much like a simulated run outdoors. It is fully responsive to the motions made by the runner in that if a runner walks slowly, then the slats turn slowly, and at the opposite extreme, when the runner goes on a full sprint, the belt follows suit.

Running on the Curve can easily give you 30% better results than when running on motorized treadmills. You can also track your progress through the built-in display that the Curve comes with; you have your choice between the standard display or the touch screen console.

Be sure to invest in a good pair of running shoes for maximum comfort.

SpeedFit Speedboard ProXL

The Speedboard Pro XL from SpeedFit might just be the best treadmill to achieve your fitness goals. Everyone’s got their own fitness goals in mind. You may want to slim down to be healthier, or you may want a fitter body for improved confidence. Whatever the reason, to achieve your goals of a fitter body, you have to pay the full price of sweating it off.

Running is probably one of the best ways to achieve a fit and toned body fast. Not everyone, however, may find it convenient to run outdoors all the time. It may be a question of time, safety, or just convenience, but there will be a lot of days when running indoors is the best option. For days like these, the SpeedBoard Pro XL is your best workout equipment because it is able to simulate running far more naturally than motorized treadmills do.

While treadmills with motors remove some of the challenges of running, the Speedboard ProXL keeps every challenging thing about running intact by using only gravity and the runner’s own power to move the belt.

Running on the Speedboard ProXL feels natural since the slats are constructed on top of near-frictionless, high-performance bearings. Running on this curved treadmill is smooth and quiet, which adds to the entire experience of the simulated natural run.

Primal Strength Curved Treadmill

If you have fallen in love with running but frequently find yourself unable to go outside for a run, then you may already be familiar with the traditional motorized flat treadmill. The traditional motor-run treadmill may seem like the perfect substitute for actual running, but they certainly aren’t – they actually provide some unwanted assistance, which diminishes its muscle-building and technique-improving benefits. You’ll encounter no such problem with the Primal Strength Curved Treadmill.

The Primal Strength Curved Treadmill is a commercial-grade non-motorized treadmill that uses the simple yet highly innovative shape of the curve to produce far better results than traditional treadmills. Runners don’t rely on a moving platform to help them run; instead, they engage all their running muscles to produce movement. This ultimately creates a far superior, natural running feeling and experience.

This is ideal for HIIT workout enthusiasts, Crossfitters, runners, or any other athlete looking to improve their speed, endurance, and stamina. There are a few ways you can use the Primal Strength Curved Treadmill to enhance your athletic performance. You can do sprints, prowler pushes, backward running, and other such exercise to develop all of the muscles you need in your particular sport.

It features a control option to switch among the 6 levels of workout resistance. These can be toggled to achieve the desired workout progress, and you can monitor or record the results on the included LCD console that shows fitness metrics.

TZ 3000C Curved Treadmill

The human body has evolved to be perfectly suited for running. If you’re a fan of running, you know just how fun it is to run with the wind in your face as you cover mile upon mile at varying speeds and altitudes. While it may be argued that nothing could beat the feeling of running outdoors, there are quite a few valid reasons why running indoors could be preferable. If you do choose to run indoors, then you no longer have to feel that the only decent choice is the flat motorized treadmill since the dawn of the curved treadmill is here.

The TZ 3000C Curved Treadmill is designed to be heavy-duty commercial gym equipment. Doing your daily runs on this curved treadmill is better than going a few miles on the motorized treadmill for a lot of reasons. The first is that it is very responsive, and unlike the motor-run treadmills, it slows down when you slow down, and it stops when you stop – just like how it is when running.

You also are able to burn a lot more calories with this than you would with the motorized kind. Another reason is that the motion as well as the posture that you are put in by using the TZ 3000C Curved Treadmill feels more natural than how it is with the motorized treadmill. This means that you will get more muscle-building and technique-improving benefits from running on this than any motorized treadmill.

Curved Treadmill Benefits

There are a few advantages with using the curved treadmill as compared to running on the motorized traditional level or flat treadmill. It has been scientifically proven that runners will spend more energy as they work harder running on a non-motorized curved treadmill. This is seen as higher heart rates, increased oxygen consumption, increased energy expenditure, and increased running cadence when compared to similar intensity and time on motorized flat treadmills. All of this results in high caloric burn, which is a very big plus for those who are looking to become healthier and fitter.

Also, another advantage with curved treadmills comes as a result of its shape, and it is this shape that simulates uphill running. Uphill running provides an added challenge to the runner, working the posterior chain muscles effectively; this creates a better running and training experience for those who are uphill runners but are confined to flat or urban environments.

The lack of a motor also makes the curved treadmill ideal for those who prefer more control over their speed. The runner can adjust the speed just by changing the speed and cadence of their stride. This method of speed control is more akin to how running is done naturally outdoors; in other words, curved treadmills simulate running better by creating a more natural running experience even when indoors.

You can incorporate running on a curved treadmill in your workout routine especially if you are going for High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). You can also use it as cross training for your cycling or even your outdoor running. If you’re more of a physique workout bodybuilder, you can run on a curved treadmill as your cardio warm-up prior to engaging in heavy lifts.

Biking is one of the most complete workouts you can do. However, not everyone wants to head to a crowded gym to wait in line for their 15 minutes on a bike. This is why we have compiled a list of assault bikes that you can get online and install at home.

It’s important to know all the features each of these bikes offer to determine which one is the one that fits you perfectly. You’ll want to make sure that getting a bicycle for your home won’t translate to having it there gathering dust because there’s something you don’t like about it. The size, weight, and technology available on your chosen assault bike might make all the difference in whether you’ll use it or not. Here are the 10 best assault bikes on the market, including all the information you need to know about their special features.