The resort-oriented Arbor Formula Rocker relies mainly on a traditional yet progressive shape that allows for strong powder performance with the rocker and fantastic on-trail feedback with an all-mountain character. There’s a lot of “middle ground” stuff going on with the Formula rocker, from the mid-range flex to the great value. The fact that it comes with all of Arbor’s reputation and quality just makes it that much more appealing. Their rocker system provides fantastic surfy and smeary performance to go along with phenomenal flotation. The profiling of the board makes it float better than others of the same width as it reduces catching and hooking through the tips and tails. If you’re an intermediate through advanced rider looking for one rockered board to do it all, the Arbor Formula Rocker should be at the top of the list.
ROCKER & OUTLINE SHAPE
Reverse Camber
PREFERRED TERRAIN
Groomers, Powder, Big Mountain
Maxx Connolly was on the 153, and noted that the length felt perfect for him. On the scorecard, Maxx gave a top score of 5 out of 5 for playfulness, with 4’s right behind for stability, quickness, maneuverability, torsional stiffness, edge hold, versatility, and overall impression. Forgiveness and flotation got 3’s, but overall, we’re seeing a very consistently high spread of scores here. Maxx notes: “Think I preferred the rocker to the camber Formula. It’s very fun and playful on the hard groomers. I would love to try it in fresh snow. Carves well and feels stable, very comfortable ride. Recommended for average to advanced riders.” Again, we’re seeing that mid-range of qualities and application shine through for Formula Rocker here, and that’s a good thing for a huge number of riders.
JG also rode the 153 and noted that the “length felt okay, and true to size. I think I could ride the next size down and have more fun.” JG scored the Formula Rocker very consistently, with 3’s dominating the card save for a lowly 2 for flotation. He states that the Formula Rocker is “Easy to ride and get used to, did not feel like a rocker board, the Grip Tech works well creating grip and holding power in the turn. The base is fast in the flats. Good playful board in a Twin shape with a set-back stance. Intermediate rider looking to advance ability level and fun factor.” It’s all about making things fun and simple out there on the hill, and with the value as well, the Formula Rocker has a lot to offer a multitude of all-mountain riders. Jarrod Ogden gave the 156 a whirl and said “yes it was good” which is a great starting point on the board. We see a lot of 4’s on his card for overall impression, versatility, forgiveness, playfulness, quickness, maneuverability, and flotation. In actuality, I’m surprised to see that this is the highest score for flotation from our testers given the rockered system of the Formula, but that’s why this test is interesting—lots of different experiences. For Jarrod, “This is a nice do-it-all snowboard if you’re looking for a rocker profile. It’s a little unsure at speed but fun to slash around the hill.” Certainly, with a lower price point, compromises will be made in some scenarios like this.
By hitting a large number of riders right down the middle with a fun-loving, strong-valued board like the Formula Rocker, Arbor has a whole lot of bases covered. For resort riders looking for a blend of edge grip, flotation, pop, and energy, the Formula Rocker has more to offer than most, and to a wide array of riders.
