When it comes to snowboarding, few brands blend craftsmanship, sustainability, and performance as seamlessly as Arbor Snowboards. Since its inception in 1995, Arbor has carved out a unique space in the snowboarding world, offering riders high-quality boards while staying true to its environmental ethos. At Boardertown, we’re proud to stock Arbor Snowboards, a brand that resonates with Kiwi riders who value both innovation and the preservation of our natural playgrounds. In this in-depth exploration, we’ll dive into Arbor’s rich history, spotlight its talented team riders, and showcase the standout snowboards available at Boardertown.

The History of Arbor Snowboards: A Legacy of Sustainability and Craftsmanship

Arbor Snowboards was born in 1995 in Venice, California, founded by Bob Carlson and Chris Jensen—two surfers-turned-snowboarders with a vision. At a time when snowboarding was still finding its footing as a mainstream sport, the duo saw an opportunity to bring something different to the table. Inspired by their love for the outdoors and a desire to protect it, they launched Arbor with a mission to combine forward-thinking design, traditional craftsmanship, and sustainable materials.

From day one, Arbor set itself apart by replacing standard epoxy topsheets with responsibly sourced wood veneers, a move that not only improved board performance but also reduced environmental impact. They were pioneers in using bamboo, bio-plastics, and recycled materials—innovations that were ahead of their time in the 90s snowboarding scene. The brand’s name, “Arbor,” Latin for “tree,” reflects its deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, a value that continues to define it today.

Arbor’s early years weren’t without challenges. The snowboarding industry wasn’t ready for a “hippy” brand focused on eco-conscious production while others chased flashy graphics and trends. But Carlson and Jensen persisted, proving that sustainability and high performance could coexist. By the late 90s, Arbor expanded into skateboarding, repurposing old snowboards into big-wheelbase skates ideal for bombing hills—a nod to their resourceful roots.

A cornerstone of Arbor’s legacy is its “Returning Roots” program, launched at the brand’s inception. Through this initiative, Arbor donates a portion of every sale to forest restoration, with a focus on preserving Hawaii’s Koa forests. Partnering with the Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative, they’ve helped plant over half a million Koa trees, honoring the cultural heritage of surfing and snowboarding while giving back to the planet.

In 2021, Arbor celebrated 25 years of innovation with the release of Crossing the Grain, a film documenting its journey. Today, powered by 100% solar energy at its snowboard factory, Arbor remains a trailblazer in sustainable snowboarding, delivering boards that perform as good as they look.

Arbor’s Team Riders: Pushing Progression and Heritage

Arbor’s team riders are a diverse crew, bridging the gap between snowboarding’s heritage and its future. From backcountry legends to park innovators, these athletes embody the brand’s ethos of good times and great lines. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout riders shaping Arbor’s legacy:

Bryan Iguchi:

A snowboarding icon, Bryan Iguchi brings decades of experience to the Arbor team. Known for his fluid style and backcountry prowess, Iguchi’s signature Bryan Iguchi Pro Camber snowboard reflects his all-mountain versatility. Whether carving groomers or slashing powder, he’s a testament to Arbor’s rider-driven design.

Marie-France Roy:

A Canadian freeride powerhouse, Marie-France Roy is celebrated for her technical descents and environmental advocacy. Her influence shines through in boards like the Swoon Camber, designed for women who charge steep, deep terrain with confidence.

Jared Elston:

Hailing from Alaska, Jared Elston is a backcountry maestro whose riding reflects the raw power of untamed terrain. Known for his fearless descents and creative line choices, Elston’s influence can be felt in Arbor’s powder-oriented designs, like the directional shapes built for deep snow and big drops. His connection to the mountains makes him a perfect fit for Arbor’s nature-first philosophy.

Scotty Vine:

On the freestyle front, Scotty Vine pushes progression with his creative park and street riding. His playful style aligns with Arbor’s Candle Collection, designed for riders chasing tricks and new growth.

This talented roster spans the globe, from the spines of Valdez to the streets of Quebec, ensuring Arbor’s designs evolve with the sport’s varied terrain and personalities.

Arbor Snowboards Available at Boardertown.co.nz

Arbor’s 2026 snowboard collection brings a blend of innovative design, sustainable craftsmanship, and versatile performance to the slopes. Available at Boardertown, these boards cater to a range of riding styles, from park and street to all-mountain and backcountry. Here’s a look at five standout models:

Arbor Metal Machine Snowboard 2026

Built for riders who live for park and street sessions, the Metal Machine is a true twin with a pure camber profile. Part of Arbor's freestyle Candle collection, its no-nonsense design focuses on clean lines and snappy response, making it ideal for jumps, rails, and urban features.

Arbor Formula Snowboard 2026

The Formula offers a balanced ride for all-mountain enthusiasts. With a versatile flex and Arbor’s signature Grip Tech for enhanced edge control, it’s a reliable choice for carving groomers or exploring varied terrain.

Arbor Kuro Neko Snowboard 2026

Inspired by precision and agility, the Kuro Neko is crafted for riders focused on fundamentals. Its female specific design and twin shape and responsive construction make it a go-to for park riders with a freestyle focus.

Arbor Rain Snowboard 2026

Designed with a nod to fluidity, the Pat Moore's pro model the Rain excels in soft snow and powder days. Its directional twin shape and stiffer flex deliver a powerful, responsive ride that shines in the backcountry or deep resort stashes.

Arbor Satori Snowboard 2026

Designed by Bryan Iguchi, the volume-shifted Satori is a snow loving machine. Its directional shape, twin stance and parabolic camber profile offer a mix of stability and forgiveness, perfect for creative riders pushing their limits on in any terrain.

Why Choose Arbor Snowboards at Boardertown.co.nz?

Arbor Snowboards isn’t just a brand—it’s a movement. For nearly three decades, it’s led the charge in sustainable snowboarding without compromising on performance. Whether you’re a freeride fiend, a park rat, or an all-mountain explorer, Arbor’s lineup has something for you. At Boardertown, we’re stoked to bring these boards to New Zealand riders, backed by our commitment to quality gear and top-notch service.

Ready to ride Arbor? Browse our full range of Arbor Snowboards online or visit one of our stores across NZ. From the slopes of Ruapehu to the powder stashes of Wanaka, Arbor and Boardertown have you covered for your next snowboarding adventure.