Merriam Webster defines Archetype as: 1 the original pattern or model of which all things of the same type are representations of or copies: Prototype; also: a perfect example. 2: Idea.

Each of these definitions aptly define the Archetype Lab by Endeavor Snowboards. It’s a place where the company refines its products before sending them off to the factory to be manufactured in greater numbers. Nestled in the basement of Endeavor Snowboard’s Vancouver, BC office and showroom, the Archetype Lab is in one of the most ideal locations in the world for evaluating and testing snowboards. It’s just 15 minutes from Grouse, Seymour and Cypress mountains and 90 minutes to Whistler. Plus, they’re based in a city center.

Endeavor came into existence after World Industries cancelled their adult snowboard program. Max Jenke, a former World Industries team rider, spent a year or so trying out other boards to see what he wanted to ride. After not finding anything that he “loved”, he started Endeavor. “I had an opportunity to make some boards, so I grabbed Scott Serfas and Rob Dow, and we hit the ground running.

The Archetype Lab is not a snowboard factory but a purpose-built lab dedicated to Research and Development. With 15 years of experience running his own factory and snowboard companies, Endeavor Product Manager Jason Broz brings a wealth of knowledge to the lab. “Jason came on 18 months ago to forge our future in board design with the objective of setting up an R&D lab in Vancouver to innovate and improve our snowboards,” says Jenke. “Funny enough Jason has always been involved in Endeavor as a consultant. I’ve known him for 18 years, and he helped me with shapes and constructions throughout the years.” Rob Dow is also heavily involved in product development having designed top selling products while professionally riding for Vans, Option, and Silence. “Those [two] combined with my two cents pretty much sets up how the lab is run,” explains Jenke.

Entering their tenth year, Endeavor is proving that they won’t just crank out the same old garbage instead; they are advancing their products and making snowboarding more fun. Being in Vancouver, BC simply helps them do that a little better than some of the other guys.