Where are Burton snowboards made?

One of the most common questions the Burton Guides get is: “Where are Burton snowboards made?” And fortunately, the answer is simple. Burton snowboards are made in five different locations around the world, including China, Taiwan, Austria, Poland, and the United States.

But what are the differences between Burton snowboards that are made in Europe, Asia, and the USA? And why does Burton manufacture snowboards at different locations? Let’s dig into this topic a bit more.

What’s the difference between Burton snowboards from China, Taiwan, Europe, and the USA?

This is a trick question: there is no difference between Burton snowboards manufactured in China, Taiwan, Europe, and the United States. Regardless of where a snowboard is made, you are getting the same high-quality product, built by hand to our exacting standards. However, because of the specific processes and tooling required to produce certain models of Burton snowboards, like the Custom X for example, each model is only made in one specific manufacturing location.

This approach ensures that you have the same consistent riding experience, whether you prefer a 3D Fish, Blossom, or Skeleton Key. And to ensure that our standard of excellence is met everywhere, our internal quality and assurances (Q&A) team regularly inspect snowboards from every manufacturing partner.

Why does Burton manufacture snowboards in five different locations?

We manufacture Burton snowboards around the globe for multiple reasons. Because our staff of builders and facility in Vermont is relatively small, they focus on building snowboards that are produced in smaller volumes. Whereas in Asia, where our capacity for production is higher, we manufacture snowboards that are sold in higher volumes. And Europe’s heritage in the snow sports industry provides manufacturing advantages around processes and innovation. Each location has its strengths, and together, we're continuing to innovate snowboard technology and construction.

It’s important to know that whether we’re building snowboards in the USA or elsewhere, we’re always working diligently to ensure that our manufacturing facilities adhere to fair labor practices and responsible material sourcing. In fact, these are two primary facets at the core of our people, planet, and sport purpose.

And our manufacturing partners have shown us a solid commitment to sustainability on their end as well. For instance, our partners in China and Europe have installed solar panels at their facilities to offset their electricity use.

By upholding high standards across each manufacturing location, you can feel good about investing in a Burton snowboard, knowing that the individual who built it earned a fair wage and benefits while working in a facility with third-party oversight and accreditation from the Fair Labor Association.

Learn more: read What are snowboards made of? to gain an even deeper understanding of the Burton snowboards manufacturing process.