What the Burton Lipstick 2011 is and why it matters
The Burton Lipstick 2011 is a directional, twin-tip-inspired snowboard that sits in the midfreestyle category, designed for riders who want a blend of park confidence, all-mountain versatility, and playful pop. Released around 2010–2011 and produced for several seasons, this board helped define Burton’s approach to freeriding shapes during a period when splitboards, powder boards, and true twins were all gaining attention. Its name draws from the classic lipstick-inspired nose shape that tapers to a rounded, catchable tip, while the directional set up with setback bindings balances stability and float. This overview covers its core geometry, intended use cases, and how it fits into the broader evolution of Burton freestyle boards.
Key specifications and features (2011 era)
Below is a concise summary of the most often-reported specs for the Burton Lipstick 2011, drawn from period product sheets, retailer listings, and brand materials. Exact numbers can vary slightly by year and model run, but these values capture the intended design targets.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Length range (common sizes) | 148–153 cm (men’s reference) | Burton spec sheets |
| Waist width | ≈24.5–25 cm | Retailer listings and catalog PDFs |
| Tip/tail shape | Rounded, tapered nose; softer tail | Brand product descriptions |
| Core construction | Poplar wood core with variable flex patterns | Technical decks and materials overviews |
| Base material | High-density extruded base (standard for era) | Construction breakdowns |
| Binding recommended | Burton EST/Channel compatible | Binding compatibility notes |
| Category | Directional with twin-tip influence (park/all-mountain) | Marketing and editorial classifications |
Design intent and target rider profile
Burton positioned the Lipstick 2011 as a board for riders who spend time in the park but also want a board that handles backcountry sidecountry and light powder with confidence. The directional outline emphasizes forward stability, while the rounded nose retains enough rocker-like feel for buttering and jibbing. Compared with true twins of the era, the Lipstick offers longer effective nose and slightly setback bindings, which shift the balance toward float and edge hold on traverses. This made it a common recommendation for intermediate to advanced riders seeking one board for varied days rather than a specialized park tool.
Flex, camber, and feel
Reviewers in 2011–2013 generally described the base model Lipstick as moderate to medium-stiff in flex, with a gradual taper that softens the tip for pressability. The camber profile typically followed Burton’s standard camber with a slight rocker in the very nose, yielding a forgiving landings zone and snappy pop without excessive catchy behavior. In practice, this meant the board absorbed edge bumps better than a stiff true twin while still providing a solid platform for ollies and grabs. Riders who preferred ultra-soft flex or full twin for switch carving might choose other models, but the middle-of-the-road approach was considered a strength for many all-mountain riders.
Performance in real conditions
On groomers, the Lipstick 2011 felt stable at speed thanks to its effective edge length and directional shape, with a predictable, arcing turn rather than a quick, surfy snap. In parks, its taper and nose profile helped with buttering and board control on rails, though some riders noted a slightly longer learning curve for very technical switch tricks compared to dedicated true twins. In crud and variable snow, the moderate flex and setback stance absorbed chatter, while the rounded tip improved float in fresh snow and light powder. On steep, icy runs, the edge hold and directional stability were generally praised, underscoring its all-mountain versatility.
Context within Burton’s lineup (2010–2013 period)
During the 2010–2013 timeframe, Burton offered several shapes that occupied distinct niches: the Directionals for steep and deep, the Library and Bataleur for classic carving and freestyle, and the Hell Bent for aggressive park riding. The Lipstick sat between the playful Library and the more aggressive, tapered noses of powder-focused boards, giving riders a transitional shape that could evolve with their preferences. For riders who outgrew beginner boards but were not yet ready for stiff race or freeride models, the Lipstick offered a balanced platform with room to grow. Its role was not to chase trends but to provide a dependable, versatile option across multiple seasons and snowstyles.
How it compares to modern equivalents
Today’s boards benefit from advances in core materials, sidecut profiles, and base technology, but the core geometry ideas behind the Lipstick 2011 remain recognizable in current midfreestyle directionals. Compared to modern all-mountain boards, the Lipstick’s waist width and tapering nose align closely with contemporary designs that prioritize edge hold, float, and switch confidence without a pronounced directional penalty. Riders who enjoy boards such as the Moment DT or similar midwidth, all-mountain shapes can view the Lipstick 2011 as a historical precedent for this balanced approach. While current boards may feel livelier due to lighter cores and sintered bases, the fundamental trade-offs—float versus agility, directional stability versus switch playfulness—remain familiar.
Common considerations and limitations to keep in mind
- Weight: Boards from this era tended to be heavier than modern ultralight constructions, which can affect fatigue on long tours or in terrain parks.
- Flex progression: Some riders find the transition from nose to tail more abrupt than on later, more progressive designs.
- Technology updates: New base wax formulations, lighter cores, and reinforced edges on current models can outperform older constructions in comparable conditions.
- Powder capability: While capable in light powder, dedicated powder boards introduced after 2011 often offer superior float and floatation in deep snow.
Verdict and enduring relevance
The Burton Lipstick 2011 is best understood as a solid mid-era directional board that balanced park play and all-mountain stability in a way that resonated with many riders. It is neither a groundbreaking innovation nor a niche specialist, but a reliable shape for riders seeking one board to cover varied terrain and progression. If you’re evaluating used equipment or comparing vintage specs to today’s options, the Lipstick’s strengths in stability, approachable flex, and versatile geometry remain meaningful reference points, even as newer models continue to refine the formula.