When you're hunting for that perfect all-mountain snowboard that doesn't just perform but dominates every terrain, the CAPiTA Navigator steps into the spotlight with impressive confidence. This board has been turning heads and carving up mountains with a versatility that's hard to match.
CAPiTA has built quite a reputation for pushing boundaries in snowboard manufacturing, particularly with their sustainable Mothership factory in Austria. Their commitment to quality and innovation shows in every board they produce, and the Navigator is no exception.
Key Specifications:
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Flex Rating: 7/10
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Shape: Directional Twin
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Core: FSC® Certified Dual Core™
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Base Type: Sintered High-Speed Base
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Edge Technology: Full ABS Sidewalls
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Stance: Setback 12.5mm
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Width: Mid-Wide
IN-DEPTH REVIEW:
1. Flex and Response
The Navigator boasts a medium-stiff flex (7/10) that really comes alive when you're pushing your limits. Unlike previous iterations, CAPiTA has fine-tuned the flex pattern to provide more stability at high speeds while maintaining enough give for playful riding. Whether you're charging through choppy snow or floating through powder, the board responds instantly to input without feeling too demanding.
2. Camber Profile
The hybrid camber profile is where the Navigator truly shines. CAPiTA's Resort V1 Profile combines traditional camber between the feet with slight rocker at the tip and tail. This design gives you the pop and edge hold you'd expect from a camber board, while the rocker sections make it more forgiving and enhance float in powder. It's like having your cake and eating it too – precision when you need it, forgiveness when you want it.
3. Torsional Response
Torsionally, the Navigator strikes a sweet spot that makes it incredibly versatile. The board twists enough to let you manipulate your edge angle mid-turn, but maintains enough rigidity to prevent washing out during aggressive carves. CAPiTA has reinforced the torsional response compared to previous years, making it more stable during high-speed runs.
4. Float in Powder
Here's where things get interesting – despite being an all-mountain board, the Navigator floats like it was born for powder. The slightly setback stance and directional shape work together with the rockered nose to keep you surfing above the deep stuff. I found myself laughing through powder fields that would typically have me working overtime on other all-mountain boards.
5. Speed Performance
Want to feel like you're piloting a fighter jet down the mountain? The Navigator's sintered base absolutely rips. CAPiTA has improved the base material quality, resulting in better wax retention and higher speeds. Even in flat sections where other riders are scrambling, you'll find yourself gliding effortlessly.
6. Turn Initiation
The mid-wide width and responsive edge technology make turn initiation a breeze. Whether you're making quick edge changes through trees or laying down prolonged carves, the Navigator responds predictably and smoothly. It's not quite as quick edge-to-edge as some narrower boards, but the trade-off is enhanced stability and float.
7. Shape and Design
The directional twin shape is a masterpiece of versatility. While it excels riding regular, switch riding doesn't feel awkward thanks to the twin-like characteristics between the feet. The wider waist width accommodates larger boot sizes without creating toe drag, and the subtle taper helps with float without compromising switch riding ability.
8. On-Track Behavior
From groomers to park laps, the Navigator handles it all with composure. The board tracks incredibly well through variable conditions, and the edge hold on ice is remarkable thanks to CAPiTA's upgraded edge technology. While it's not a dedicated park board, it's more than capable of handling jumps and side hits with confidence.
Conclusion
The CAPiTA Navigator is a testament to modern snowboard engineering – a true all-mountain weapon that excels in virtually every aspect of riding. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for a do-it-all board or an intermediate player ready to step up their game, the Navigator delivers in spades. It's the kind of board that makes you a better rider just by strapping in. Head to your local shop and check one out – your mountain experience will never be the same.