Venomous Raptor Sandboard and Dakine SS Bindings ($175):
It's the nearest thing to snowboarding, but instead you're sliding down granular vertical precipices. So where equipment is concerned it's not entirely surprising the Raptor Sandboard looks like a close cousin of your snow slider. As one of the emerging sport's most popular boards, the Raptor is befitting for beginners but has the performance chops for intermediates as well. Being lightweight and easy to maneuver, a new rider will be able to control speed and initiate turns quickly thanks to the board's set-back hips, a feature that improves control and handling. The 105-centimeter length and tapered "directional" square tail and rounded nose, along with a medium flex, add up to a versatile terrain board that'll carry you up to higher levels of proficiency. Wood-o-philes will appreciate the earthy construction: a 12-millimeter birch plywood deck, birch rails, and a hard maple bottom layer, all wrapped in a poly clear coat. Since there's no topside laminate, the clear-coated birch exudes a beautiful, natural finish that could double for wall art. Keeping rider and board connected as one are Dakine SS Bindings, made of adjustable Velcro neoprene straps that permit delicate edging control from the toes and heels. Contact 541-997-6006, www.venomousboards.com.
The Board & Bindings | 
