GILSON Flat to Rocker (Duel)
Tech Specs
Price: $629
Size Options: 100, 130, 139, 144, 148, 149, 154, 154W, 159W
Flex: Soft
Profile: Flat to Rocker
Shape: Twin
Performance Review
First Impression. The Duel is a soft, playful board that offers a massive amount of surface area. Right off the bat, it treats you to a very specific, surfy feel. Thanks to its 3D base bevel, the board noticeably reduces direct contact with the snow and limits the effective edge. This design makes it incredibly easy to spin around, butter on, and definitely places the deck into a unique category of its own.
Edge Hold. Because of the prominent beveled edge design, the board rides loose and skatey which is an advantage for intermediate riders when first initiating turns.
Edge Transition. It features a generally wide waist width, which is excellent for accommodating riders with larger boot sizes (size 9+), but that extra width inherently slows down your edge-to-edge response time.
Drive // Pop. The softer flex pattern really gives the sensation of a skateboard that’s loose and forgiving and loads of fun to jib around on.
Nimbleness & Predictability. Where this board scores its highest marks is in its sheer playfulness especially at slower speeds. The catch-free nature of the beveled edges makes flat-ground tricks and butters highly accessible. You never have to worry about accidentally catching a downhill edge.
Stability at Speed. It is not a board meant for redlining down steep faces. However, that wide footprint and loose profile mean it would absolutely float like a boat on deep powder days.
Fun Factor. If your goal is to play around and enjoy a skate-park like experience, the Duel might be for you.
The Deep Dive
Overall Impression The Duel is an unconventional design that carves out its own specific niche. It thrives on mellow resort groomers, slow park laps and mellow powder runs. The graphics continue to play an important role as the Duel (and all boards in the Gilson line) can run with the Shark Submarine graphic or any one of the 30+ other options.
Who is this board for? All levels of riders especially who just want to have fun, surf the mountain, and ride without worrying about catching an edge.
