The Burton Flight Attendant snowboard model from the 2017-2018 winter season was a directional, all-mountain board designed for versatility and performance in various snow conditions. Characterized by a directional camber profile and a medium flex, it aimed to provide a balance of stability at higher speeds and maneuverability in tighter terrain. This board appealed to intermediate and advanced riders looking for a reliable platform for carving, powder runs, and navigating challenging slopes.
Introduced during a period of growing interest in versatile all-mountain snowboards, this specific model catered to riders who preferred a single board for diverse riding styles. Its design allowed for confident handling on groomed runs, while its shape and construction offered sufficient float in powder. The blend of directional camber and medium flex made it an attractive option for riders seeking stability without sacrificing maneuverability. This ability to perform well in various conditions and cater to a range of skill levels contributed to its popularity.
This discussion will further explore the board’s design features, including its directional shape, camber profile, and construction materials. Additionally, the performance characteristics, target audience, and overall reception within the snowboarding community will be examined.
1. Directional Shape
The directional shape of the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant played a crucial role in its performance characteristics and intended riding style. Designed for primarily forward movement, this shape influenced how the board interacted with the snow and terrain, contributing to its distinct all-mountain capabilities.
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Nose and Tail Design
The Flight Attendant featured a longer nose and shorter tail. This design element facilitated float in powder and provided stability at higher speeds. The longer nose helped prevent the board from sinking in deep snow, while the shorter tail allowed for quicker turns and maneuverability.
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Sidecut Radius
The sidecut radius, defining the curve of the board’s edge, was likely designed to complement the directional shape. This radius impacted turn initiation and overall carving performance. While the specific radius would vary based on board length, it generally contributed to a smooth, controlled ride on groomed runs.
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Stance Setback
Directional boards often incorporate a setback stance, where the rider’s bindings are positioned slightly further back from the center of the board than on a twin-shaped board. This setback further enhances float in powder and stability at speed, aligning with the Flight Attendant’s all-mountain designation.
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Impact on Riding Style
The directional shape made the 2018 Flight Attendant less suitable for switch riding (riding backwards) compared to twin-shaped boards. This design choice prioritized performance in forward riding, catering to riders focused on carving, powder runs, and exploring varied terrain.
The directional shape, in conjunction with other design elements like the camber profile and flex, contributed to the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s versatile all-mountain performance. This specific shape catered to riders prioritizing stability, float, and control in diverse snow conditions, emphasizing forward movement and exploration over freestyle riding. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for appreciating the board’s intended purpose and target audience.
2. Directional Camber
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant employed a directional camber profile, a crucial element influencing its performance characteristics. Directional camber blends traditional camber with a rockered nose. The camber section underfoot provides edge hold and responsiveness on groomed runs, generating powerful turns and stability at speed. The rockered nose, rising earlier than on a traditionally cambered board, enhances float in powder and improves maneuverability in variable snow conditions. This combination made the Flight Attendant versatile, allowing riders to confidently navigate both groomed pistes and off-piste terrain.
Consider a rider transitioning from groomed runs to ungroomed powder. With directional camber, the board maintains grip and responsiveness on the packed snow. Upon entering the powder, the rockered nose lifts the board, preventing it from sinking and maintaining momentum. This seamless transition highlights the practical significance of directional camber for all-mountain riding. Conversely, a purely cambered board might struggle in deep snow, while a fully rockered board could lack the precision and stability desired on groomed runs.
Directional camber represents a design compromise aimed at maximizing versatility. While perhaps not excelling in any single area, it provides a balanced performance across a spectrum of conditions. This design choice aligned with the Flight Attendant’s intended use as an all-mountain board capable of handling diverse terrain. Recognizing the effects of directional camber is essential for understanding the board’s strengths and limitations and for making informed decisions about equipment selection based on individual riding preferences and terrain choices.
3. Medium Flex
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s medium flex rating significantly contributed to its all-mountain versatility. Flex, referring to a snowboard’s stiffness, dictates how readily it bends and responds to rider input. A medium flex sits between a soft and stiff flex, offering a balanced performance profile. This characteristic allowed the Flight Attendant to perform capably in various conditions, from carving on groomed runs to navigating powder and tackling variable terrain.
A medium flex provides sufficient responsiveness for precise edge control and powerful turns on groomed slopes. However, unlike stiffer boards designed primarily for high-speed carving, the Flight Attendant’s medium flex allowed for easier maneuverability in tighter spaces and through challenging snow conditions. This adaptability proved beneficial in trees, moguls, and other off-piste environments. Additionally, a medium flex absorbs vibrations and impacts more effectively than a stiff flex, offering a smoother and less fatiguing ride in choppy snow. This characteristic enhanced comfort and control in variable conditions.
Consider a scenario involving a descent on a mixed-condition slope. The medium flex allowed riders to maintain stability and control at higher speeds on firmer patches, while still enabling nimble adjustments and effortless turns in softer sections. This balance made the Flight Attendant an ideal choice for riders seeking a single board capable of handling diverse terrain. Understanding the implications of medium flex is crucial for assessing the board’s performance characteristics and suitability for individual riding styles and preferences. This characteristic highlights the board’s intended use as a versatile all-mountain tool, balancing performance and accessibility for a broad range of riders.
4. All-Mountain Versatility
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s defining characteristic was its all-mountain versatility. This stemmed from a deliberate combination of design elements, enabling competent performance across a wide range of snow conditions and terrain. The board’s directional shape, directional camber profile, and medium flex worked synergistically to provide a balanced ride, catering to riders who prioritized adaptability over specialization. This versatility stemmed from the need for a single board capable of handling groomed runs, powder, and variable snow conditions encountered throughout a typical day on the mountain.
Consider a hypothetical scenario: a rider begins the day carving on freshly groomed corduroy. The Flight Attendant’s directional camber and medium flex provided the necessary edge hold and responsiveness for precise turns and stable performance at speed. As the day progresses and the rider ventures into off-piste terrain with ungroomed snow and powder pockets, the directional shape and rockered nose facilitated float and maneuverability. Later, encountering chopped-up snow and variable conditions, the medium flex absorbed vibrations, offering a smoother ride. This adaptability eliminated the need to switch boards throughout the day, a key advantage for all-mountain riders.
The emphasis on all-mountain versatility reflects a broader trend in snowboarding towards adaptable equipment capable of handling diverse terrain. The 2018 Flight Attendant exemplifies this trend, offering a balanced performance profile suitable for intermediate and advanced riders seeking a single board for varied conditions. Recognizing the design choices contributing to this versatility provides valuable insight into the board’s intended purpose and performance capabilities. This understanding allows riders to make informed decisions about equipment selection based on individual needs and riding preferences. While specialized boards might excel in specific conditions, the Flight Attendant prioritized adaptability, offering a reliable and enjoyable experience across a wider spectrum of terrain.
5. Intermediate to Advanced Riders
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s design specifically targeted intermediate to advanced snowboarders. Several factors contributed to this focus, including the board’s performance characteristics and intended riding style. The directional shape, directional camber, and medium flex demanded a certain level of rider competence to unlock their full potential. Beginners might find these characteristics challenging to manage, while experienced riders could leverage them for precise control and dynamic performance.
Consider the board’s performance in powder. The directional shape and rockered nose facilitated float, but effectively maneuvering in deep snow required experience and technique. Similarly, the directional camber and medium flex enabled aggressive carving on groomed runs, but demanded control and precision to prevent edge catch. An intermediate rider progressing to advanced techniques would benefit from these characteristics, gradually developing the skills necessary to exploit the board’s capabilities. Conversely, a beginner might find the board overly responsive and difficult to control, hindering skill development. A highly advanced rider focusing primarily on freestyle or park riding might prefer a board with a different shape, flex, and camber profile.
The focus on intermediate to advanced riders highlights the Flight Attendant’s position within Burton’s product line. It served as a stepping-stone for riders transitioning from beginner-friendly boards to more specialized equipment. This targeting emphasizes the importance of matching equipment to skill level for optimal performance and enjoyment. Selecting a board appropriate for one’s skill level maximizes learning potential and minimizes frustration, contributing to a positive snowboarding experience. The Flight Attendant occupied a specific niche within the market, catering to riders seeking a versatile all-mountain board capable of handling diverse terrain while demanding a certain level of competence to unlock its full potential.
6. Float in Powder
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s ability to float in powder stemmed from a combination of design features working in concert. The directional shape, characterized by a longer nose and shorter tail, played a crucial role. This design displaces snow towards the longer nose, lifting the front of the board and preventing it from sinking in deep powder. This lift, combined with the rockered nosean upward curve starting earlier than on a traditional camber profilefurther enhances float by increasing the surface area at the front of the board. The setback stance, positioning the rider slightly behind the board’s center, complements these features by shifting weight towards the tail, further leveraging the nose’s lifting capabilities. These design choices, working synergistically, enable the rider to maintain speed and control in deep snow without expending excessive energy.
Consider a rider descending a steep, powder-filled slope. The Flight Attendant’s longer nose and rocker profile naturally rise in the deep snow, preventing the board from submerging. This allows the rider to maintain momentum and make controlled turns without the front of the board diving. The setback stance further enhances this effect, preventing the rider from being thrown forward. The combined result is a smooth, controlled descent in powder conditions, allowing the rider to experience the effortless glide characteristic of well-designed powder boards. Conversely, a board lacking these features would tend to sink in deep snow, requiring greater rider exertion and potentially leading to loss of control.
Float in powder is a critical performance attribute for all-mountain snowboards like the 2018 Flight Attendant. This capability expands the board’s usable terrain, allowing riders to confidently explore ungroomed slopes and deep snow conditions. While not a dedicated powder board, the Flight Attendant’s design features provided sufficient float to enhance the overall all-mountain experience. Understanding the interplay of these design elements provides valuable insight into the board’s performance characteristics and intended use. This understanding helps riders select equipment appropriate for their riding style and preferred terrain.
7. Stable at Speed
Stability at speed is a critical performance characteristic for the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant, directly influencing rider confidence and control, particularly on groomed runs and at higher velocities. Several design elements contribute to this stability, allowing riders to maintain composure and execute precise maneuvers even in challenging conditions. Analyzing these elements provides valuable insight into the board’s intended use and target audience.
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Directional Shape and Camber
The combination of a directional shape and directional camber profile contributes significantly to stability at speed. The longer nose and rocker profile provide lift and prevent the board from diving, while the camber section underfoot maintains edge grip and responsiveness. This combination allows for controlled turns and prevents speed wobbles, a common issue with less stable boards at higher velocities.
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Medium Flex
The medium flex rating provides a balance between responsiveness and stability. While a softer flex might feel unstable at speed, and a stiffer flex could be unforgiving, the medium flex of the Flight Attendant absorbs vibrations and maintains composure, allowing riders to maintain control without excessive effort.
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Sidecut Radius
The sidecut radius, though specific measurements vary depending on board length, plays a role in stability. A well-designed sidecut complements the board’s other characteristics, facilitating smooth turn initiation and preventing the board from feeling catchy or unpredictable at speed.
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Construction and Materials
The internal construction of the board, including the core materials and fiberglass layup, contributes to torsional stiffness and overall stability. These materials influence how the board responds to forces at high speeds, resisting twisting and maintaining a consistent edge grip, further enhancing stability.
These elements work synergistically to deliver a stable ride at speed, a defining characteristic of the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant. This stability allows riders to confidently push their limits on groomed runs and maintain control in variable snow conditions. For intermediate and advanced riders seeking a versatile all-mountain board capable of handling higher speeds without compromising control, the Flight Attendant’s focus on stability becomes a crucial factor in equipment selection.
8. 2017-2018 Season Model
The designation “2017-2018 season model” is crucial for understanding the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant within the context of snowboard technology and market availability. This designation signifies the model year for which the board was designed, manufactured, and released for sale. This timeframe provides crucial context for evaluating the board’s features, technology, and relevance within the broader evolution of snowboard design.
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Model Year Significance
Snowboard technology, like many other consumer products, undergoes continuous development. The model year designation allows consumers to identify a board’s placement within this evolutionary timeline. The 2017-2018 season signifies the period during which the Flight Attendant was considered a current model, incorporating Burton’s latest technological advancements and design philosophies at that time. This designation helps differentiate it from earlier or later iterations of the Flight Attendant or other Burton snowboards.
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Availability and Market Context
The 2017-2018 season model designation indicates when the board was readily available in the retail market as a new product. As subsequent model years are released, older models are typically phased out. Understanding this lifecycle is crucial for prospective buyers, as it informs purchasing decisions. Those specifically seeking a 2018 Flight Attendant would likely need to explore the used market or remaining new old stock, recognizing that its features and technology might reflect the design trends of that specific period.
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Technological Context
The 2017-2018 timeframe provides a technological benchmark for assessing the Flight Attendant’s features. Comparing the board’s specifications and construction to models from earlier or later years reveals the trajectory of snowboard design and technological advancements within Burton’s product line. This analysis provides insights into the evolution of materials, construction techniques, and design philosophies.
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Discontinuation and Legacy
The fact that the 2018 Flight Attendant is no longer a current model highlights the continuous evolution of snowboard technology. Its discontinuation paves the way for newer models incorporating updated designs and materials. Recognizing this cycle allows for a more informed evaluation of the board’s place within the broader history of snowboarding equipment. Its legacy resides in its contribution to the progression of all-mountain snowboard design and its influence on subsequent models.
Understanding the “2017-2018 season model” designation provides a crucial framework for evaluating the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant. This designation situates the board within a specific technological and market context, informing purchasing decisions and offering insights into the evolution of snowboard design. Recognizing this temporal context is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the board’s features, performance characteristics, and overall relevance within the snowboarding landscape.
9. Discontinued Product
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant’s status as a discontinued product significantly impacts its availability and market dynamics. Discontinuation typically occurs when a manufacturer ceases production of a particular model, often to introduce newer iterations with updated designs, technologies, or market positioning. This process is common within the snowboarding industry, driven by continuous innovation and evolving consumer preferences. Understanding the implications of discontinuation is crucial for prospective buyers seeking this specific model.
The primary consequence of discontinuation is reduced availability. Retailers typically deplete existing stock, and the product is no longer available for purchase through standard retail channels. This scarcity often drives demand within the used market, where prices may fluctuate based on condition, demand, and overall market dynamics. Potential buyers seeking a 2018 Flight Attendant must navigate the secondary market, exercising due diligence regarding condition and authenticity. Additionally, discontinued products may lack manufacturer support, including warranty coverage and replacement parts availability. This factor warrants careful consideration, especially for items subject to wear and tear, such as snowboards.
The discontinued status of the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant necessitates a strategic approach for acquisition. Potential buyers should explore online marketplaces, used sporting goods stores, and community forums dedicated to snowboarding. Thorough research regarding pricing trends and condition assessments is crucial to making informed purchasing decisions. While discontinuation presents challenges, it also creates opportunities for discerning buyers to acquire sought-after models at potentially advantageous prices. Recognizing the implications of discontinuation provides a realistic perspective on availability, pricing, and potential limitations regarding manufacturer support. This understanding empowers potential buyers to navigate the market effectively and make informed decisions aligned with individual needs and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant snowboard. The information provided aims to offer clarity and assist potential buyers in making informed decisions.
Question 1: Where can one purchase a 2018 Burton Flight Attendant?
As a discontinued model, the 2018 Flight Attendant is no longer available through authorized retailers. Potential buyers should explore online marketplaces specializing in used sporting goods, local used sporting goods stores, and online snowboarding communities or forums.
Question 2: What is the typical price range for a used 2018 Flight Attendant?
Pricing varies based on condition, size, and location. Researching comparable listings on relevant platforms provides a reasonable estimate. Factors such as condition of the base, edges, and top sheet significantly influence market value.
Question 3: Are replacement parts available for this discontinued model?
Obtaining replacement parts for discontinued snowboards can be challenging. Contacting Burton directly or authorized repair centers might yield limited options. Exploring online forums and communities dedicated to snowboarding could also provide leads on sourcing parts.
Question 4: How does the 2018 Flight Attendant compare to newer Burton all-mountain models?
Newer models likely incorporate updated materials, technologies, and design philosophies. Researching current Burton all-mountain offerings and comparing their specifications to the 2018 Flight Attendant provides insights into advancements in snowboard design. Consulting professional snowboard reviews can offer further comparative analysis.
Question 5: What is the recommended skill level for riding the 2018 Flight Attendant?
This model is generally suited for intermediate to advanced riders. Its directional shape, camber profile, and medium flex require a certain level of competence for optimal control and performance. Beginners might find these characteristics challenging, while experienced riders can leverage them effectively.
Question 6: What are the key maintenance considerations for this board?
Regular waxing, edge sharpening, and base repairs are essential for maintaining optimal performance and extending the lifespan of any snowboard, including the 2018 Flight Attendant. Consulting professional tuning services or researching proper maintenance techniques ensures appropriate care.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions aids in making informed decisions regarding the acquisition and maintenance of a 2018 Burton Flight Attendant snowboard. Thorough research and understanding of the board’s characteristics, availability, and potential limitations are essential for a positive ownership experience.
The following section will offer concluding thoughts on the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant, summarizing its key attributes and overall legacy within the context of all-mountain snowboard design.
Tips for Riding a Board Like the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant
Directional all-mountain boards like the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant require specific riding techniques to maximize performance and enjoyment. The following tips offer guidance for effectively utilizing such boards in various snow conditions.
Tip 1: Weight Distribution in Powder
Maintain a centered or slightly set-back stance in powder. Avoid leaning too far forward, which can cause the nose to dive. Distributing weight evenly allows the rockered nose to lift naturally, maintaining float and control.
Tip 2: Edge Control on Groomed Runs
Engage the edge effectively for powerful carving on groomed runs. Directional camber requires deliberate edge engagement to initiate and maintain turns. Precise pressure control allows for smooth, controlled arcs.
Tip 3: Navigating Variable Snow Conditions
Maintain a balanced stance and adapt to changing snow conditions. The medium flex provides adaptability, but active weight distribution and edge control are essential for maintaining stability and control in mixed snow and chopped-up terrain.
Tip 4: Speed Control and Stability
Manage speed effectively, particularly on steeper slopes. The directional shape provides stability at higher speeds, but proper speed control is crucial for maintaining maneuverability and avoiding uncontrolled descents.
Tip 5: Terrain Selection and Board Capabilities
Select terrain appropriate for the board’s all-mountain design. While versatile, boards like the Flight Attendant are best suited for groomed runs, powder, and mixed conditions. Avoid terrain primarily designed for freestyle or park riding.
Tip 6: Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Maintain the board’s base and edges through regular waxing and sharpening. Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of the board. Consider professional tuning services for comprehensive care.
Tip 7: Understanding Board Limitations
Recognize the board’s limitations. While versatile, a directional all-mountain board may not excel in highly specialized areas like freestyle or extreme backcountry riding. Understanding these limitations allows for realistic expectations and informed terrain choices.
By following these tips, riders can effectively utilize the capabilities of directional all-mountain snowboards like the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant, maximizing performance and enjoyment in various snow conditions. These techniques allow riders to adapt to changing terrain and unlock the board’s full potential.
The following concluding section summarizes the key attributes and overall legacy of the 2018 Burton Flight Attendant, contextualizing its contribution to the evolution of all-mountain snowboard design.
Conclusion
The 2018 Burton Flight Attendant represented a specific point in the evolution of all-mountain snowboard design. Its blend of directional shape, directional camber, and medium flex offered a balanced performance profile catering to intermediate and advanced riders. Key attributes included stability at speed, float in powder, and versatility across varied terrain. As a discontinued model, its availability is now confined to the used market, requiring prospective buyers to navigate the secondary market strategically. Understanding its design philosophy and target audience provides crucial context for evaluating its relevance within the broader landscape of snowboarding equipment.
The Flight Attendant’s legacy lies in its contribution to the ongoing pursuit of versatile all-mountain performance. Its design choices reflect the desire for a single board capable of handling diverse conditions, empowering riders to explore the mountain with confidence and adaptability. While technology continues to advance, the 2018 Flight Attendant remains a noteworthy example of a specific design philosophy aimed at maximizing all-mountain versatility.
