For more than four decades, Burton Snowboards has been at the heart of snowboarding culture. From pioneering the very first snowboard designs to supporting legendary riders and pushing sustainability forward, Burton is far more than a manufacturer—it is the brand that helped create an entire sport.
Today, Burton Snowboards stands as a global reference for performance, innovation, and authenticity, appealing to beginners and elite riders alike.
The History of Burton Snowboards: From Garage Startup to Global Icon
The story of Burton Snowboards begins in 1977 in Vermont, USA, when Jake Burton Carpenter founded the company with a simple but revolutionary idea: to transform an emerging toy-like concept into a legitimate snow sport.
At a time when snowboards were banned from most ski resorts, Jake Burton relentlessly refined board design, introducing bindings for control and safety—an innovation that would redefine snowboarding forever. His persistence played a major role in gaining acceptance for snowboarders at resorts and competitions worldwide.
Through the 1980s and 1990s, Burton became a driving force behind:
- The recognition of snowboarding as a sport
- The creation of professional competitions
- The growth of freestyle and halfpipe riding
- Snowboarding’s inclusion in the Olympic Games
Burton didn’t just follow snowboarding’s evolution—it led it.
Burton’s DNA: Innovation, Performance, and Authenticity
A Brand Built on Innovation
Innovation is deeply embedded in Burton’s identity. The brand continuously invests in research and development to improve performance, comfort, and durability.
Key innovations include:
- The Channel® mounting system, allowing precise stance adjustment and natural board flex
- A wide range of camber profiles designed for different riding styles
- Lightweight wood cores combined with carbon and fiberglass reinforcements
- Advanced shaping for stability, pop, and edge control
These technologies allow Burton to deliver boards that perform across freestyle, all-mountain, freeride, and backcountry terrain.
Sustainability and Environmental Commitment
Burton Snowboards is also a leader in sustainable practices within the outdoor industry. Long before sustainability became a trend, Burton committed to responsible manufacturing.
Key initiatives include:
- FSC™-certified wood cores
- Recycled and bluesign®-approved materials
- Reduced chemical usage in production
- Long-term durability to reduce product waste
This commitment reinforces Burton’s mission: protect the mountains that make snowboarding possible.
Iconic Burton Snowboards and Equipment
Legendary Snowboards
Over the years, Burton has created some of the most iconic snowboards in the industry—models trusted by generations of riders.
Among the most legendary boards:
- Burton Custom – A true all-mountain benchmark known for versatility and precision
- Burton Process – A freestyle-oriented board made famous by pro riders
- Burton Deep Thinker – Designed for freeride and powder performance
- Burton Flying V – A playful, forgiving board ideal for progression
These models have become staples in snowboard shops worldwide.
Boots, Bindings, and Outerwear
Burton’s strength lies in its complete ecosystem of snowboard gear:
- High-performance bindings offering comfort, response, and adjustability
- Premium snowboard boots combining warmth, fit, and power transfer
- Technical outerwear engineered for protection, breathability, and freedom of movement
This all-in-one approach allows riders to build a fully optimized setup from a single brand.
Burton Team Riders: Legends Who Defined the Sport
From competition icons to freeride pioneers, Burton has supported some of the most influential riders in snowboarding history.
Iconic Burton Riders
- Shaun White – Multiple Olympic gold medalist and one of the most recognizable figures in action sports
- Kelly Clark – One of the most decorated female snowboarders of all time
- Terje Håkonsen – A true pioneer of freeride and backcountry snowboarding
- Mark McMorris – One of the most progressive and stylish freestyle riders of his generation
These athletes didn’t just win competitions—they influenced snowboard culture, style, and progression.
Burton Snowboards Today: Tradition Meets the Future
Today, Burton Snowboards continues to balance heritage and innovation. Still family-owned, the brand remains true to Jake Burton Carpenter’s original vision: pushing snowboarding forward while staying deeply connected to its roots.
Burton is now:
- A global leader in snowboard technology
- A cultural icon in action sports
- A sustainability-driven outdoor brand
- A trusted choice for riders of all levels
From park laps to backcountry lines, Burton gear is built to perform in every condition.
