I rode the 2024/2025 Nidecker Alpha on a sunny, cooler temp, January day. This board was a lot of fun to shred on as the mid-stiff flex felt stable but definitely not overwhelming and not a plank. I could charge down the slopes but still feel in control and make last-minute direction/speed changes if needed. The rocker in the nose and tail contributes to this “less aggressive” feel. When riding faster, I could see and feel vibrations in the softer, elongated nose, but the stiffer tail kept me “true” to my line while also giving me plenty of power to drive in and out of carves. I could also feel the 3D spoon nose, slight taper, and Drop Out tail, making the board ride more “surfy.” I could feel the board wanting to turn quick, slash, and rebound off of the tail when changing direction. This made the Alpha feel very agile in trees and dynamic when riding more aggressive. With that said, you could still set your weight into that front foot to drive more long, drawn-out carves in open terrain.

Pop off of side hits was easy to engage, nothing insane in regards to height, but a solid amount of airtime. The stiffer tail helped to stomp landings as well. I could feel myself getting bucked a tad in rougher terrain, but overall, it held up well when taken off of the main runs. I didn’t get to take this board into the park, but I threw a few spins and grabs off side hits, and everything felt “comfortable.” The board was easy to spin, it was forgiving on landings if I came up a little short, and grabs didn’t require any extra work. Riding out or coming in switch felt a little different than regular, which makes sense due to the directional shape, but no issues.

I wish I could have taken this board for a spin in powder, as I think that is where it would really shine. Unfortunately, there was none to be found the day I tested it. But based on the larger nose, compact tail, and “surfy” feel, I think this would be a slashy and nimble pow board with decent float. Lastly, with this board having a narrower waist and not an overly aggressive flex, I would recommend sizing up if you want to use this board as your main powder or freeride deck. You will get better stability, float, and performance that way.

In conclusion, I’d recommend this board for strong intermediate riders and up who want to charge but also be laid back at times. The type of rider with a more dynamic, carvy, and slashy riding style. Those who want a single board to ride on groomer days, powder days, and exploratory days. Nidecker categorizes the Alpha as an all-mountain freestyle snowboard. However, I think there are better options for this out there. As for me, this board’s riding style leans more toward “playful freeride.”