Spark R&D Splitboard Skins Review
Intended Use: Splitboarding.
Recommended For: Splitboard missions, getting up, across, and over to your destination zone.
Review Date: April – June 2016
Set Up:
Board:Never Summer Prospector 157
Binding: Spark R&D Surge Binding
Skins: Spark R&D Skins with tailclips size medium
About Spark R&D (aka Spark R&D): Based out of Bozeman, MT, rider-owned and -operated Spark R&D has been invigorating splitboard enthusiasts since 2005, and has become a leader in creating innovative products for all aspects of splitboarding. Spark R&D has an impressive line up, from bindings, pucks, and skins to all kinds of accessories. Check out our review of Spark R&D surge bindings and arc bindings!
Spark R&D Splitboard Skins specs:
High traction skin material manufactured by G3 is the perfect combination of stick, glide, and grip.
Equipped with Spark R&D patented tailclips
Three sizes available Small, Medium and Large
See the sizing and set up guide for more sizing information here
Spark R&D Skins with tailclips Review:
An essential part of any splitboarding experience are your skins, and Spark R&D skins with tailclips are a great addition to your kit. There are several other options available at different price points, the Spark R&D skins come with all the bells and whistles. The skins are easily stored in the bag included and they attach/remove well from the “mesh skin saver” tape spark provides for storing. Even during my first outing with Spark R&D skins, I had no issues attaching them to my split set up and they stayed put even with steep ascents. My set up is a 157 Never Summer Prospector and I was using size medium skins which were slightly too large in my opinion for my board, so I would recommend looking at the size chart for your set up and gauging appropriately, I may try a size small next to see the difference. In addition to the great hold on ascents you can make them glide when you need it, though these are not known for their glide capability they worked in the conditions I was in, there are options to improve glide on the flats or low angle approaches here: zip strip kit and here Universal Zip Strip Kit.
Summary:
Spark R&D skins are built for the splitboarder that is looking to get the most out of a product and isn’t concerned with spending a bit more. These come in around $190, but what you get for your money is worth every penny, these durable high traction skins will not disappoint you. Easy to maintain, and the tailclips are a worth the extra expense (debatable, but that’s my opinion). If you’re looking for top of the line skins, with a ton of accessories to compliment your experience in the backcountry you’ll find that as well with Spark R&D accessories. If you have the extra cash, they’re a must.
Pros
Tailclips slide and adjust easily on your board
great traction and longevity
decent glide
no snow and ice build up
easy to attach and remove
Works well in most conditions tested powder, corn, hardpack, granular.
Easily to put on take off and go between touring and riding
Cons
there are less expensive alternatives out there, but these will last and are easy to care for.
| Price: |  (4.0 / 5) |
| Construction: |  (4.5 / 5) |
| Performance: | (4.5 / 5) |
| Overall: |  (4.3 / 5) |