2025 Nitro Alternator Snowboard Review
By: Landon Harmon, Snowboard Buyer | Last Updated: May 21st, 2024
The Lowdown
The 2025 Nitro Alternator sums itself up perfectly with the words on this years graphic. Haul Ass, Go Big, One Love. This board can take you anywhere, from intermediates and up if you're looking for a directional camber board with that classic 90's shape and reliable ride, Nitro has you covered with this one.
Shop Nitro Snowboards
Technical Details
It's all in the shape with the Alternator. The directional shape and camber profile are smooth and reliable. Tighter sidecut in the middle of the board brings it to life on the groomers allowing this board to be ridden any given day. The thinned out core underneath the bindings make it maneuverable without taking away the aggressiveness of the board.
| Sizes (cm) | 154, 157, [160], 162W |
| Shape | Directional |
| Wasit Width (mm) | 256 @ 160 cm |
| Rocker/Camber Profile | Trüe Camber (Full Camber) |
| Flex Rating | 7/10 (Stiff) |
| Construction | Powerlite Core w/ Reflex Core Profile + Tri-Lite Laminates & Diamond Band |
| Base | Sintered Speed Formula II |
| Binding Compatibility | 2 x 4 Inserts |
Ride Impressions
I rode the 160cm Nitro Alternator in powder, hardpack and slushy conditions. I was riding in the PNW between Skibowl, Timberline and Snoqualmie. This board could hang any day I brought it out and I was never wishing I was on a different board, except perhaps for some rope tow park laps.
Powder
Riding night pow and Skibowl I was able to test out the float which was impressive for a cambered board. I often find my back leg fatigued on camber powder boards but not as much with this deck, the setback and taper are perfectly aligned to keep you from having to put all your weight on your back foot.
Hardpack/Groomers
While on hardpack it carved like a dream, very reliable for big to tight turns and never felt catchy. You can lock in and rail a carve to create any sidehit you can think of. It has great pop which makes it super fun to hit jumps or natural features on. I also enjoy the amount of tail it has, it helps with the impact of landings and allows the board to spin easily as well.
Sizing
I would recommend purchasing your normal board size, I typically ride a 158-162 and the 160 was a perfect fit for me.
Similar Boards
Other boards I’d compare it to would be the Capia Aeronaut, which is a bit more freestyle feeling than this, which feels more surfy/freeride. Another similar option would be the Lib Tech Lib Rig, which also delivers great float but is a tad bit softer than this.
Rating: ★★★★★
Pros
- Great Float
- Predictable Feel
- Lightweight
Cons
- Shorter tail isn't quite as capable riding switch.
- Does chatter on icy or super firm conditions.
- Would be cool if they offered more inclusive sizing.
Who Is It For?
I would recommend this board for intermediate to expert riders who love to ride off the beaten path. It’s for riders who enjoy fresh snow, flowing through the trees, popping and buttering over the entire mountain. The Alternator appeals to the skate and surf soul of snowboarding and will be well received by riders who indulge in other sideways activities.
The Bottom Line
The Nitro Alternator is hard to beat and if you're considering purchasing I would highly recommend. I find myself turning to this board more than any other throughout the season, powder days, chill groomer days and even slushy park days are more fun on the Alternator. The shape is timeless, graphic is a banger, it's on Nitro's fastest base so you can zoom zoom, it handles powder and freestyle riding with grace. Grab one and open up the throttle!
Shop Nitro Snowboards
About the Reviewer
Name: Landon Harmon
Age: 32
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 175 lbs
Size Reviewed: 160 cm
Location(s) & Conditions: Ski Bowl, OR / Timberline, OR / Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Bindings: Union Atlas
Boots: Ride Lasso Pro
Riding Style & Ability Level: Expert - Freeride forward with a freestyle flair.