I agree with DakkaGuru; the Custom is the most popular Burton board for a reason-it's versatile, agressive, fun, floaty, and now with V-Rocker it's more forgiving and catch-free, which is exactly what a beginner needs. Plus, this board will last you many many seasons.

This board will be fine for a beginner. The reason the Custom isn't considered a 'beginners' board is it is a bit stiffer, but not so much that the rider if dedicated couldn't handle it. It's also a bit more expensive due to better materials & tech. Beginner boards test to be less expensive for the inverse reason. All it means is if you get this for a beginner it's more of a commitment than say a Burton Blunt.

i dont think stiff boards help beginners, in fact its harder to control stiff boards then soft so in my opinion you should get something closer to jib type of board which are softer flex and usually lighter then stiff boards for easier control when learning how to ride.

Too silly and flexy for a beginner. Look for a nice Ride board, no DH. You need something a little stiffer and even a directional shape would help. Solomon, and rossi, make lots of directionals. Ride anthem I've been free riding for 3 years and that would be good. Little bit of flex and directional. Take it or leave it.

Perfect. The proven, time-tested custom has long been people's first and last board. Now with V rocker, it's even more fun.