GNU Banked Country vs GNU Essential Service

How they compare

Both target all mountain terrain, while the GNU Essential Service leans more freeride. They share a directional shape — different nose and tail; built to ride forward with better float in powder and drive on groomers. The GNU Banked Country has a rocker profile (lifted contact points for easier turn initiation, float in soft snow, and a catch-free feel), while the GNU Essential Service uses hybrid (camber/rocker) (mix of camber and rocker zones for all-mountain versatility—grip, float, and play in one profile). The GNU Banked Country is slightly stiffer, though both sit in the stiff range.