Never Summer Proto Synthesis 2020-2021 Review
The Never Summer Proto Synthesis is new to the line for 2020-2021. The Proto (Short for Prototype) Family will now be comprised of 3 boards all with Never Summer’s new Shockwave camber profile. Shockwave has larger camber sections stretching further outside the inserts toward the tip/tail and a shorter rocker section between the bindings providing even more power and performance than ever before. The line up includes; the proto slinger a softer asymmetrical freestyle ride, proto synthesis an all mountain mid/firm twin, and the Proto Ultra (designed with input from world champion rider Chris Corning) a more powerful and firm board that can handle the biggest hits in the park.
The Proto Synthesis is a true all mountain twin taking the place of the Proto Type Two from the previous seasons line up. It’s a brand new design from the ground up from the mad scientists at Never Summer who are always looking to push their product line in new, fun, and progressive ways in the industry. If you’re interested in power, pop, and a board that will expand your mind on what an all mountain board can do, then read on.
Never Summer Proto Syntesis 155cm Review
Snowboard Tested and Rider Specs:
- Never Summer Proto Synthesis 2020-2021
- Never Summer Proto Synthesis Size: 155cm (waist width 25.4 cm)
- Never Summer Proto Synthesis Sidecut: Vario Power Grip utilizes multiple radiuses creating extra contact points to enhance edge hold.
- Recluse Carbon Web Layup, stiffens up the longer camber sections of the board.
- Bindings: Union Falcor (Medium)
- Boots: Adidas Tactical ADV size 9
- Stance: approximately 22.5″
- Rider Height: 5’9″
- Rider Weight: 180
Conditions/Terrain Tested: Park, Groomers, sidecountry, moguls, steeps, and some pow.
Review:
The Proto has been my board of choice in the Never Summer line for years. From it’s origins over 8 years ago to todays Proto Type Two, I have found it to be one of the best boards I’ve ever ridden and it has been a benchmark for most of my reviews for performance from park to pow laps. It’s no surprise to me that Never Summer created a new line and now has a family of Protos for the 2020-2021 season it just make sense to keep progressing.
The new Shockwave profile brings extra power of a new elongated and greater camber section and a shorter rocker section between the bindings included with added carbon stringers in the center of the board and Never Summer’s recluse web carbon layup under the inserts. With these additions to the board, the Proto Synthesis doesn’t need the previous versions asymmetrical shape, it’s now a true twin.
I was able to spend some time on this board this season, and it’s truly is a different board than the Proto Type Two. The 155 waist is noticeably wider at 25.4 cm and the tip and tail shape are that of a traditional twin snowboard, the graphic is really cool and in my mind is an abstract homage to the first proto. The textured topsheet has evolved too and as durable as ever.
Riding this board in powder and through trees was a lot of fun, it’s nimble and quick edge to edge. Turns are really easy to initiate when the trees get tight, and just as you’ expect in pow it floats really well. I took it through several mogul runs just to see how it sucked up all the negative energy when charging through a mogul line and it absorbs the bumps where you want it too and is still very nimble in these conditions as well. This will surely help you when going through uneven terrain at your local mountain.
Park riding on the Proto Synthesis was where I was hoping to see the best parts of the type two still available in this new offering. I was impressed, it’s a different feeling, however it’s well balanced and after a few laps in the park I felt right at home. Riding rails on the Synthesis was a little different and took some getting used to, but this board will easily slay any jump or rail line. I felt really confident in the park on this board and appreciated the power of the larger camber sections, it’s really boosty when you need it.
Overall Impressions:
This is a natural progression of the Proto series, and the Proto Synthesis is a dynamic mixture of power and performance that’s nimble through the trees, floats through powder, and can still destroy the park. This board will allow you to stomp landings with confidence. If you’re looking for a slightly stiffer mid flex board that will take you to the next level of all mountain performance from powder, carving, and to the jump line the Proto Synthesis is the evolutionary ride you’re looking for.
Pros:
- Powerful and Playful Combination from the NEW Shockwave profile
- Nimble turning ability when you need it most
- High End Construction and 3 Year Warranty
- Great option to go from powder to park with ease
- It’s a snowboard that’s really fun to ride everywhere!
Cons:
None
| Performance: |  (4.8 / 5) |
| Design: | (4.8 / 5) |
| Overall: | (4.8 / 5) |